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Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches have reviewed 600+ mattresses and accessories for over seven years using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing. We assess each bed for support, cooling, firmness, pressure relief, and more.
We’ll be discussing our top picks for the best cooling mattresses that have temperature regulating features such as gel-infused memory foam, breathable coils, and cooling covers.
There are plenty of reasons why people sleep hot. It could be that their heater is on blast or their bedding is too heavy. Another common culprit? Heat-trapping mattresses! Fortunately, there are a number of beds out there for hot sleepers, 10 of which we’ve highlighted in our list of the best cooling mattresses below. We’ll take a closer look at each one by breaking down the mattress construction and cooling materials. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Try taking our mattress quiz. After answering a few short questions, you’ll receive personalized recommendations.
Our Verdict: What’s the Best Cooling Mattress?
Our expert reviewers chose the Helix Midnight Luxe as the best cooling mattress due to its GlacioTex™ pillow-top layer that helps with heat dissipation and cooling cover featuring a Tencel material.
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches have reviewed more than 600 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period, and warranty.
To identify the Best Cooling Mattresses, we’ve paid special attention to materials, breathability, added cooling technology, and other relevant criteria. All of these beds scored at least a 4 out of 5 on cooling.
How We Choose the Best Cooling Mattresses
Breathability
Breathability is the first thing that should be considered if cooling is an important factor for you. It’s the most reliable way to ensure that a mattress will at least stay somewhat cool throughout the night. Generally, the most breathable mattresses have a hybrid construction—the layer of springs allows body heat that might ordinarily be trapped in the dense foam to easily escape. That said, even the non-hybrid mattresses we’ve selected for this list contain elements that enhance their cooling ability.
Cooling Features
Most mattress companies utilize some form of cooling technology in their products: graphite, gel infusions, heat escape gussets, Tencel fibers, etc. In some cases, these added features don’t contribute much in the way of temperature regulation. In other cases, however, they work wonders. When selecting the mattresses for this list we focused on those that included unique, effective technology that actually helped keep us cool as we were testing.
Trial Period
While we only included mattresses on this list that successfully kept us cool during testing, we understand that everyone is different. What worked for us may not work for you. That’s why we also made sure to only include products with a generous trial period. That way, if you take a chance on one of the mattresses we’ve suggested and you find that it doesn’t keep you cool enough, you’ll have an easy time returning it for a refund.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
Helix
Helix Midnight Luxe
Medium-Firm Feel
Motion Isolation
Breathability
Hybrid mattress
100-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale – Extended
Save 20% sitewide + 2 FREE pillows with any mattress ($150+ value) See Details
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 6.5/10. This is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,373-$2,073 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, RV king
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
This bed has a hotel-like feel. The pillow top provides a plush comfort layer to sink into.
The Helix Midnight Luxe sleeps cool. Thanks to its cooling cover and copper-infused memory foam, even hot sleepers shouldn’t worry about overheating on this bed.
Even though it’s a hybrid mattress, this bed has great motion isolation. That means if you co-sleep, you’re less likely to feel your partner’s movements.
Cons
Stomach sleepers probably won’t find this bed supportive enough to keep their spine in proper alignment.
This is a luxury mattress model, so it wouldn’t be considered a budget-buy.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a premium medium-firm mattress that offers a hotel-like feel for a relatively affordable price. Its zoned support and supportive coil layers make it a great option for back sleepers. It likely isn’t firm enough for most stomach sleepers, though. If you’re looking for a more supportive bed, check out the Titan Plus. Learn more in our video review.
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.4
Overall
4.5
Support
4
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
4.5
Motion Transfer
5
Durability
4.5
Trial Period
4.5
Warranty
4
Response
Our Expert’s Take
The Helix Midnight Luxe sits on a dense foam base, and the cooling aspects of the bed begin with the pocketed coils, i.e., rows of springy coils housed in fabric pockets. The coils promote airflow and are zoned to have a softer feel under the shoulders and a firmer feel under the hips for ergonomic support. Another aspect that makes the Helix Midnight Luxe a cooling bed is the gel-infused foam layer, and quilted pillowtop made from Tencel fibers, a moisture-wicking Eucalyptus plant derivative.
But if you’re unsure if the Helix Midnight Luxe is your perfect match among the dozens of beds furnished by the brand, Helix can help. When logging onto their website, customers have two options: they can participate in a sleep quiz or select from one of Helix’s many hybrid mattress models. The brand’s most popular mattress is the Helix Midnight, which lacks the plush pillow top of the Helix Midnight Luxe. With either bed, you get a hybrid construction and a mattress that won’t trap excess heat. Helix Midnight Luxe scored a breezy 4.5/5 cooling score in the mattress lab.
What the testers say: “When I lay on my back and side on the Helix Midnight Luxe, I really enjoyed how the combination of foam and coils kept me feeling supported and comfortable. I think the majority of sleepers are going to like its feel, though I’d steer stomach sleepers to something firmer.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Like About the Helix Midnight Luxe
The Midnight Luxe has great edge support, meaning that if you lay near the edge of the mattress, you shouldn’t feel as though you’re going to fall off. This also helps with durability, as the Midnight Luxe should last about a decade with proper care.
Lightweight sleepers under 130 lbs should love the Midnight Luxe no matter what position they sleep in. Back and side sleepers who are lightweight should feel comfortable and supported, and lightweight stomach sleepers should get proper spinal support from the zoned coils.
Couples should love the Midnight Luxe. It’s great at isolating motion, meaning couples shouldn’t wake each other up from moving around during the night, and it’s also bouncy and responsive enough to be a great mattress for sex.
What to Keep in Mind About Helix Midnight Luxe
Most stomach sleepers won’t get the proper support on this mattress. It’s medium-firm, so most stomach sleepers will sink too far into the mattress and won’t get proper spinal support.
Some heavy back sleepers may find some comfort on the Midnight Luxe, but most heavyweight sleepers will want to try a mattress on our roundup of the best mattresses for heavy people.
Other Customer reviews
On the Helix site, over 5,000 users rated the Midnight Luxe 4.4 out of 5 stars. Many of the highest reviews say that the mattress is very soft but still supportive enough so that you won’t sink too far in and be uncomfortable. On the contrary, some other users had the opposite feeling, and thought that the mattress was too soft for them.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Nectar Premier is an all-foam mattress with a high-density base layer and several layers of plush foam on top.
Firmness
The Nectar Premier is softer than average. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated it a 6/10. For reference, 6.5/10 is considered the industry standard of medium-firm.
Price
$1,049-$2,398 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Hot Sleepers
The Phase Change Material cover, paired with the cooling gel foam, helps dissipate body heat.
Side Sleepers
It offers lots of pressure relief for side sleepers who weigh less than 275 lb.
Pros of the Nectar Premier
It has a balanced foam feel. You’ll feel like you’re resting “on top” of the bed, rather than “inside” it.
The plush foam layers offer lots of pressure relief for side sleepers.
The cooling materials help dissipate body heat.
Cons of the Nectar Premier
It’s not supportive enough for most heavyweight back sleepers.
It lacks a bouncy and responsive feel.
This mattress might be too pricey for some people.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period.
The Nectar Premier mattress is a luxurious bed that offers lots of pressure relief. It’s softer than average, which makes it a nice option for many side sleepers. This mattress has cooling gel foam and a cover made with Phase Change Material, so it works well for hot sleepers. However, it may not be supportive enough for many back and stomach sleepers. And because it’s a high-end model, it could be out of some people’s budgets. To learn more, watch our video review.
Nectar Premier Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.3
Overall Rating
4
Support
4
Edge Support
4
Cooling
4.5
Motion Transfer
3.5
Response
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
Traditionally, memory foam is an excellent choice to isolate motion. However, memory foam is also known for trapping heat, understandably causing hot sleepers to shy away from memory foam mattresses. While the Nectar Premier is a memory foam mattress, it contains cooling materials—including Nectar’s Adaptive ActiveCool phase change material—that keep it from getting hot at night, earning it a 4.5/5 cooling score in the mattress lab.
With its gel infusion, the foam bed’s top memory foam layer will help dissipate heat with the help of a cover woven with a Tencel material that’s highly breathable and wicks away moisture. We’re also impressed by the Nectar brand’s robust customer service assurances. You and your partner will have 365 nights to decide if your new mattress is a good fit, and from there, the bed is covered by a lifetime warranty.
Nectar also offers the Nectar Luxe, which features triple-action cooling and a breathable cooling cover woven with copper fibers, according to Nectar. For our thoughts on the Nectar Luxe, check out our review.
What the testers say: “The Nectar Premier is really unique in that it offers two things that don’t usually go together: cooling and memory foam. When I tested the Nectar Premier, it gave me that soft, contouring feel, but I didn’t overheat at any point.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Like About the Nectar Premier
Since the Nectar Premier is a foam mattress, it’s great at isolating motion. For couples who typically disturb each other through the night and are looking for a mattress to keep each other’s movements at bay, the Nectar fits the bill.
Despite its high quality materials, the Nectar Premier won’t break the bank. We often include it in our roundups of the best mattresses for the money.
The Nectar Premier has a generous trial and warranty period. The brand offers a 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty. Keep in mind though, the brand does have limited warranty terms listed on their site.
What to Keep in Mind About the Nectar Premier
The Nectar Premier is a soft foam mattress. Great for side and back sleepers, but not so much for heavier people, who may sink too deeply into the comfort layers.
Couples who are looking for the best mattress for sex may not like the Nectar. Since it’s a foam mattress, it’s not as bouncy and responsive as some of its competitors. For alternatives, check out our picks for the best mattresses for sex.
Other Customer reviews
On the Nectar site, over 48,000 verified buyers rated the Nectar mattress 4.7 out of 5 stars. Some of the top reviews claimed that the Nectar immediately helped relieve pressure points and aches and that the cooling benefits could be felt as soon as the user lay down. However, some users complained about the long shipping process and customer service, and others said that the mattress was too soft and their hips sank too far down into the mattress.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
DreamCloud
DreamCloud Original
Firm Feel
Responsive
Affordable
Hybrid mattress
365-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Weekend Extended
Up to 50% off mattresses + spend $1,000 and save $100 See Details
The DreamCloud is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 7.5/10. This makes the mattress firmer than average.
Price
$839-$2,178 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Couples
Good balance of motion isolation and responsiveness.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the DreamCloud
It is a good option for back sleepers. While it is a bit firmer than average, its balance of comfort and support will keep the spine in neutral alignment.
You shouldn’t be sleeping too hot on this mattress. The breathable cover, gel-infused foam, and airflow-promoting coils should prevent the mattress from trapping heat.
You should never feel stuck in this mattress. The DreamCloud is bouncy and responsive, so you will have no trouble moving around and changing positions.
The DreamCloud is a good value option. Hybrid mattresses can be quite pricey, but the DreamCloud is surprisingly affordable.
Cons of the DreamCloud
Side sleepers will want to find a softer mattress to give them the pressure relief they need.
Fans of the slow-moving memory foam feel won’t get that feeling on the DreamCloud.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The DreamCloud is a hybrid mattress that offers great support for back sleepers and nice cooling for hot sleepers. Its mix of foam and coils ensures you get the right amount of support, while its breathable materials ensure you don’t sleep too hot. It is a bouncier mattress, and if you prefer more of a memory foam feel, consider the Nectar mattress. Learn more in our video review.
DreamCloud Original Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4
Overall Rating
4
Support
4
Edge Support
4
Cooling
3
Motion Isolation
4.5
Response
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
Looking for an affordable alternative to pricier cooling foam mattress like the TEMPUR-Pedic? Consider the DreamCloud. With a cashmere cover, comfort layers made with gel-infused memory foam, and a breathable coil support layer, this bed keeps hot sleepers’ night sweats at bay; Testers awarded the bed 4/5 for DreamCloud’s cooling capabilities. Plus, the firm and supportive bed has a balanced foam feel that offers relief for folks with back pain. Additionally, with its five layers of high-quality materials, you can expect this mattress to last between six and eight years.
What the testers say: “The DreamCloud is one of the most affordable hybrids on this list, particularly because the brand runs some of the best deals you’ll see on mattresses. This bed packs in quite a cooling punch, with luxury perks like heat-dissipating gel-infused memory foam and breathable coils for an affordable price.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Like About the DreamCloud
The DreamCloud is a hybrid mattress that’s made to dissipate heat. All of its cooling materials make it an excellent mattress for hot sleepers!
This is a great mattress option for lightweight sleepers in any position, especially those looking for a quality mattress at a value price.
DreamCloud has one of the best warranties and sleep trials you’ll find anywhere: a full year to test the bed and a lifetime warranty to protect your purchase.
What to Keep in Mind About the DreamCloud
Those who want a more luxury sleep experience might want to take a look at the DreamCloud Premier, which is just as cooling as the DreamCloud, but includes an extra 2″ of comfort in the form of a Euro-top pillow cover.
Heavyweight sleepers may not get enough support in some sleeping positions, especially heavier stomach sleepers.
This bed scored 3/5 for motion isolation from testers, so couples who are easily interrupted by a partner’s movements at night may want to look elsewhere, such as at beds with an all-foam construction.
Other Customer reviews
On the DreamCloud website, nearly 9,000 users rated the mattress 4.6 / 5 stars. Some of the top reviews mentioned how the mattress was uber-comfortable, and users claimed to feel benefits such as pain relief even after just one night of sleeping on the mattress. Others claimed that the mattress was too firm, which doesn’t surprise us — our testers rate DreamCloud a substantial 7.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale.
WinkBeds – Best Cooling Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The WinkBed is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 7/10, which is slightly firmer than the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,149-$2,049 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers over 130 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
It has a bouncy, responsive feel. This is great for combination sleepers who benefit from a bed that makes it easy to change positions at night.
The WinkBed features zoned support. With firmer foam at the top and bottom and more cushioning foam in the middle, this bed has excellent lumbar support.
This bed sleeps cool. Thanks to the breathable coils and gel-infused memory foam, hot sleepers can expect a cool night’s rest.
Cons
This isn’t the best option for motion isolation.
The WinkBed doesn’t have a traditional “sink-in” memory foam feel.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The WinkBed is a versatile mattress that provides zoned support and cooling comfort for a fair price. This bed’s excellent responsiveness makes it a good fit for combination sleeper that want a bed that’s easy to move around on. For couples looking for motion isolation, though, this probably isn’t the best choice. Instead, check out the Nectar Premier Copper. Learn more in our video review.
Winkbed Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Overall Rating
5
Support
5
Edge Support
4
Cooling
4.5
Response
3.5
Motion Transfer
4.5
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
Finding a mattress with the proper support and spinal alignment for stomach sleepers can be difficult, but the WinkBed achieves both while also finding ways to keep its users cool.
Thanks to the different firmness levels offered (Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus), the mattress provides lots of comfort and support for all body types and sleep positions. We especially recommend the Luxury Firm option for lightweight and average-weight stomach sleepers, and heavy sleepers should fare best on the Firmer or Plus models.
Not only that, but hot sleepers should enjoy the cooling properties of the WinkBed. With a breathable Tencel cover, gel-infused memory foam, and individually wrapped coils for airflow, you shouldn’t overheat at night. The coils (which number over 1,000 in a queen-size bed) are also constructed with lumbar support in mind, varying in thickness or “gauge” to target enhanced lower back support. The construction helped the bed net a perfect 5/5 score for overall support from mattress testers. A contouring gel memory foam layer and a quilted pillow top also ensure plenty of pressure relief on the shoulders and hips, which is excellent for those who share the bed with a side sleeper.
What the testers say: “Stomach sleepers need a really firm bed to stay comfortable. The Firmer version of the WinkBed will give them the ultra supportive feel they need. And this mattress’s layers of coils prevent any overheating.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Like About the WinkBed
The WinkBed comes in four firmness levels, so stomach sleepers of all weights should find a good match.
The balance between comfort and support in the WinkBed makes it a great fit for sleepers who suffer from lower back pain and sciatica.
The WinkBed is high-quality, affordable, and sold at a great value. It’s a durable and long-lasting mattress that should last most people 7-10 years with proper care.
Couples may love the WinkBed since its bouncy and responsive enough to be good for sex, however, because it’s bouncy, it may not be the best at isolating motion.
The WinkBed is only available online, so if you want to try before you make a purchase, you may want to try another mattress on this roundup. WinkBed does offer a 120-night sleep trial.
Other Customer reviews
On the WinkBed site, customers rated the WinkBed 4.8 out of 5 stars, with over 8,000 reviews. Some users wrote that they felt comfortable and supported in all sleeping positions while on the WinkBed, while others complained that the mattress was either too soft or too firm.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Emma
Emma Hybrid Comfort
Firm Feel
Supportive
Breathable
Hybrid mattress
365-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Exclusive Black Friday Sale
Use BLACKFRIDAY10 to get an additional 10% off See Details
The Emma Hybrid Comfort is a hybrid mattress that combines foam in the top comfort layer with coils at the bottom for support.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest, we rated the Emma Comfort Hybrid an 8/10, meaning it’s quite firm.
Price
$812-$1,649 (before discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Back Sleepers
Good support for average to heavyweight back sleepers (230 lb and up)
Couples
This bed isolates motion well for those who are easily disturbed while still being responsive enough for sex
Stomach Sleepers
Supportive for all stomach sleepers
Pros of the Emma Hybrid Comfort
The Emma Hybrid Comfort is a great choice for back sleepers who want a firm mattress that can support heavier weights. Back sleepers should get a good amount of comfort and support here.
This bed is good for budget shoppers, as it can be discounted up to 50% during major holidays.
Hot sleepers shouldn’t worry about overheating because the coils allow for airflow, the cover is breathable, and you don’t sink into the bed, which means it won’t trap heat.
Cons of the Emma Hybrid Comfort
It’s far too firm for side sleepers.
The foam doesn’t offer a lot of contouring.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Full refunds during the trial period.
The Emma Hybrid Comfort is an affordable mattress that’s very firm and offers great support for stomach and back sleepers. It can also handle heavier weights, so it’s a great choice for heavyweight individuals who need a supportive mattress. Couples should sleep soundly without worrying about noticing their partner move around during the night and it won’t trap too much heat. Learn more in our video review.
Emma Hybrid Comfort Mattress Review
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.3
Overall Rating
4.5
Support
4.5
Edge Support
4
Cooling
4
Motion Transfer
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
4
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re a heavier person, you’ll likely need a mattress on the firmer side, which is why the Emma Hybrid Comfort is a great fit. We rank it at an 8/10 on our firmness scale. Although it’s on the firmer side, it’s still bouncy and responsive. Most importantly, one look the Emma Hybrid Comfort’s many layers shows why it’s one of our picks for the best cooling mattress.
On the bed’s sleep surface, there’s a soft cover that’s good at wicking away sweat and keeping you cool. Next, the first layer of comfort foam, called Breezy AIRGOCELL foam, helps move away heat from your body. Underneath that, there’s memory foam for extra comfort, but if you love the feel of an innerspring mattress, you don’t have to worry about the foams feeling too slow moving. Then there’s HRX foam, a bouncy foam that stops heavier sleepers from sinking in too far. Finally, the main support layer consists of coils that are divided into seven zones, helping align the spine as you sleep.
Although this mattress runs firmer, it handles motion very well. Combined with impressive edge support, this mattress should be a good fit for couples looking to utilize their space.
All together, the Emma Hybrid Comfort is a high-quality hybrid mattress at the intersection between support and cooling. It’s firmer construction makes it ideal for back, stomach, and heavier sleepers.
What our testers say: “The Emma Hybrid Comfort is a great mattress for stomach sleepers and heavy sleepers. It’s supportive and firm, which is exactly what those sleepers need.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Emma Hybrid Comfort
The Emma Hybrid Comfort mattress is constructed with zoned coils, which helps the bed support weights in excess of 300 lbs.
It’s soft cover and Emma’s Breezy AIRGOCELL foam dissipate heat drawn from your body.
Since this mattress is bouncy and easy to move around on, it should work well for combination sleepers as well as couples looking for a good mattress for sex.
What to Keep in Mind About the Emma Hybrid Comfort
If you’re a lightweight sleepers or someone who prefers the feel of an all-foam bed, you probably won’t feel comfortable on a mattress this firm, and will likely want to opt for something softer.
Other Customer reviews
The Emma Hybrid Comfort is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars based on the 200+ reviews from the Emma site. Most customers raved about how the mattress is bouncy and works for couples, especially at its price point. The negative reviews complain about customer service.
Saatva Classic – Best Cooling Mattress for Back Sleepers
Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Saatva
Saatva Classic
Multiplem Firmnesses
Durable
Responsive
Hybrid mattress
365-night sleep trial
Free white glove delivery
Limited Time Offer
Take $300 off your order of $1,000 or more See Details
The Saatva is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 7/10, which is a bit firmer than average.
Price
$1,295-$2,790 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king
Stomach Sleepers
Supportive enough for stomach sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 300 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
The Saatva mattress is a great option for combination sleepers. It is available in multiple firmness options, but the Luxury Firm model works well for multiple sleeping positions.
The Luxury Firm model of the Saatva will work well for most back sleepers. Its balance of comfort and support and zoned construction ensure you’ll sleep in good neutral alignment.
Shoppers looking for a long-lasting mattress will love the Saatva. It feature high-density foam and durable coils that should ensure it lasts for over 10 years.
Cons
If you like the feel of a memory foam mattress, you’re not going to love the feel of the Saatva.
Lightweight side sleepers might not get the best pressure relief, even on the softest Saatva model.
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Saatva is a luxurious hybrid innerspring mattress that should be a great long-term investment. It is available in multiple firmness options, so it should work for the majority of sleeping positions, and its Luxury Firm model is one of the best mattresses for back sleepers. However, lightweight side sleepers and fans of memory foam should look elsewhere. Learn more in our video review.
Saatva Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.3
Overall rating
4.5
Support
4.5
Edge Support
4
Cooling
3
Motion Transfer
4.5
Response
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
Back sleepers require a mattress with a balanced feel. This should elevate the hips into proper alignment while still providing the necessary pressure relief. The Saatva is a fantastic option for these sleepers, as it has a coil-on-coil construction that creates tons of support, while also providing cushioning with a Euro pillow-top. As for cooling, there’s plenty of room for airflow between all of the coils. According to our testers, you should have no problem keeping a low temperature on this mattress, who gave the Saatva a solid cooling score (4/5).
In fact, Saatva Classic’s five-layer composition fielded near-perfect scores across the board, with the exception of motion isolation (3/5), which easily awoken couples may want to note: The lower the motion isolation score, the more disturbance our testers measured across the bed’s surface when they moved about the mattress.
What the testers say: “The Saatva is offered in three firmness options and I tested the Luxury Firm one. It had a really sturdy balanced feel that felt particularly great for back sleeping. If it’s contouring you’re after, this isn’t the bed for you, but lovers of bounce and responsiveness will be really happy here.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Like About the Saatva
The Saatva comes in three firmness options: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm, meaning that most sleepers shouldn’t have trouble finding a mattress that works for them.
The Luxury Firm version of the Saatva that we tried offered a great balance of comfort and support. This makes it a great mattress for some chronic pain, including orthopedic pain.
Two sets of coils in the Saatva Classic’s supportive layer will help keep you cool all night.
What to Keep in Mind About the Saatva
Though couples may like the Saatva as a mattress for sex, the bouncy nature of the innerspring coils may mean that partners will feel each other moving around throughout the night.
The Luxury Firm and Firm versions of this mattress may be too firm for some. We rank them at a 7/10 and 8/10 respectively, which are both firmer than the 6.5/10 medium-firm standard.
You must pay a $99 transportation fee if you wish to return this bed.
Other Customer reviews
On the Saatva site, 2,000+ users rated the Saatva mattress at 4.8 out of 5 stars. Some of the top reviewers praised how the mattress wasn’t too soft or too firm, and that it helped them with chronic pain. Some customers complained about the $99 return fee for their mattress, which Saatva does make clear on their site.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Nolah
Nolah Signature
Medium-Firm Feel
Pressure Relief
Breathable
Foam mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows + $150 off BedJet with mattress purchase See Details
The Nolah Signature 12″ is an all-foam mattress. This means that the bed is entirely made out of foam.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with one being the softest, we rated the Nolah Signature 12″ mattress a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for a medium firm mattress.
Price
$1,499 – $3,198 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Side Sleepers
Provides good pressure relief for sleepers 230 lbs or less.
Back Sleepers
Medium-firm feel gives good comfort and support for sleepers 230 lbs or less
Hot Sleepers
Foam is designed to not trap heat
Pros of the Nolah Signature
This is Nolah’s specific side sleeper model. That means most side sleepers should get good pressure relief.
It’s a medium-firm bed that supports many back sleepers while still feeling very comfortable.
Nolah uses its AirFoam, which is designed to be more breathable than traditional foam. It shouldn’t trap heat.
Cons of the Nolah Signature
This is a medium-firm bed, so it won’t be supportive enough for stomach sleepers. Instead, check out our list of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.
While this is an all-foam bed, it won’t have that classic slow-moving feeling some may look for in foam beds.
Shipping
Trial Period
Warranty
Returns
Nolah Signature Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.1
Overall Rating
4
Support
3
Edge Support
4
Cooling
4
Motion Transfer
3.5
Response
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
Are you a hot sleeper who also suffers from back pain? If so, you’ll want a mattress that targets both concerns. The Nolah Signature is a cooling mattress made with a 100% organic cotton cover, which is nice and breathable, and Nolah’s proprietary AirFoam, which is meant to promote airflow: Testers gave the bed a 4/5 score for its cooling properties.
The Signature is a great option for back pain because it has a medium-firm feel, which is ideal for promoting a neutral spinal alignment, and its foam should contour and support the lower back. Testers gave the bed an overall support score of 4/5. Another aspect the testers love about the AirFoam is its bounce: Despite being an all-foam model bed, the Nolah Signature is responsive, allowing you to switch sleep positions throughout the night seamlessly.
What the testers say: “When I tested the Nolah Signature, it felt super comfortable while back sleeping (the best position for those with back pain). Its AirFoam comfort layer contoured really nicely around my lower back. And that AirFoam is really breathable, so it kept me nice and cool too.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Like About the Nolah Signature
High-density foam in the mattress’ base layer provides lumbar support, which is especially helpful on alleviating back pain.
The Nolah is made with AirFoam in the comfort layer to help with cooling, and it also has a tencel cover that’s cool to the touch. This makes this mattress a great fit for hot sleepers.
Couples should love the Nolah Signature, as it’s a great mattress for sex since it’s bouncy and responsive, and it’s also great at isolating motion, so couples shouldn’t wake each other up through the night if they move around.
What to Keep in Mind About the Nolah Signature
As durable as the Nolah Signature is, it doesn’t have the best edge support. This means that if you lay near the edge of the mattress, you may get the feeling that you’re going to roll off.
Despite this bed’s bouncy feel, stomach sleepers might want to explore firmer options. Take a look at our picks for the Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers.
There is some initial off-gassing when you unbox the Nolah Signature. It’s best to give the mattress 24-48 hours to air out before you begin sleeping on it.
Other Customer reviews
Though Nolah does list customer reviews on its site, the site doesn’t allow readers to sort through or filter reviews and only the most recent reviews are displayed. Nonetheless, customers rated the mattress 4.8 out of 5 stars.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
3.8
Bear
Bear Original
Medium-Firm Feel
Affordable
Lifetime Warranty
Foam mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
December Deals
Use code DEAL30 for 30% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
The Bear Original is a memory foam mattress. It features softer foam layers for cushioning and firmer ones for support.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 6.5/10. This is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$786-$1,690 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the Bear Original Mattress
The Bear’s gel-infused memory foam can help hot sleepers stay cool throughout the night.
It’s an affordable option. A queen-size Bear mattress is less than $1,000, even before discounts.
Bear offers a lifetime warranty on this mattress. That means if you find any covered defects or indentations during the life of your mattress, they will replace it free of charge.
Cons of the Bear Original Mattress
This bed probably isn’t a good fit for side sleepers who weigh over 230 lbs.
Stomach sleepers likely won’t find this bed firm enough to keep their spine in proper alignment.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Bear Original is a memory foam mattress with broad appeal. It provides good support and pressure relief for side and back sleepers who weigh less than 230 lbs and comes with plenty of cooling features. It isn’t firm enough for most sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs, though. If you need a more supportive bed, check out the Plank Firm. Learn more in our video review.
Bear Original Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4
Overall Rating
4
Support
3.5
Edge Support
3.5
Cooling
4.5
Motion Transfer
3
Response
3
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
If you love memory foam, then you should love the first comfort layer of the Bear. Soft and pressure-relieving, testers said it gave them nice sinkage when they lied down. But crucially, a firmer second comfort layer kept testers from sinking too far into the bed, creating a medium-firm feel that should appeal to back sleepers and side sleepers. The durability and density of the foam support layers helped the bed earn a solid 4/5 score from our mattress testers.
If you tend to sleep especially hot, know that the Bear has an optional cooling cover for $200 made from Celliant, which Bear says is designed to aid blood circulation and muscle recovery. With our without the Celliant cover, you get foams with an infusion of graphite gel to help prevent heat retention.
What the testers say: “Memory foam tends to trap heat, but the Bear combats this with a number of cooling materials, which are found in just about every layer of this bed, from its breathable cover to airflow-promoting coils. I didn’t find myself overheating during my testing of the Bear.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Like About the Bear
In addition to a celliant fiber cover, which promotes blood circulation, the foam in the Bear is graphite gel-infused and breathable, giving this mattress some really great cooling benefits that hot sleepers should love.
The Bear mattress is easier to move around on than other foam mattresses, and also isolates motion well, making this a great mattress for couples.
The Bear is eco-friendly and made from certiPUR-US certified foams and it’s low in VOCs. This means that you won’t get any off-gassing smells from the mattress once you unbox it.
What to Keep in Mind About the Bear
The Bear mattress is made from all foam, so it may not be as durable as some other mattresses on this list.
Since the Bear is made from softer materials, stomach sleepers may not get the proper spinal support they need while sleeping on the mattress.
Other Customer reviews
On the Bear site, over 10,000 reviewers rated the Bear Original at about 4.5 out of 5 stars. Some customers said that the mattress helped them with chronic neck and back pain, and others thought that the mattress felt on the softer side, and not medium-firm as they expected.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options available.
Price
$1,199 – $2,665 (before discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, split California king, RV king, RV bunk
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers over 130 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
Available in a large variety of sizes. Whether you’re looking to add this to your bedroom or fit it in your RV, you should be able to find the right size.
This bed performed well on our cooling tests, making it a good fit for hot sleepers.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
This bed isn’t supportive enough for stomach sleepers.
Heavyweight sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs won’t find enough support on this bed.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe offers a responsive surface great for combination sleepers. It’s also a good choice for hot sleepers looking for a bed that can keep them cool but that’s available in a wide array of sizes. Learn more in our video review.
Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4
Overall Rating
4
Support
3.5
Edge Support
4
Cooling
3
Motion Transfer
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
4
Warranty
4
Response
Our Expert’s Take
The Aurora Luxe mattress comes from Brooklyn Bedding, a producer of high-quality affordable mattresses. Because the company is one of the few brands that owns its factory, it can sell beds like the higher-end Aurora Luxe hybrid at a very affordable price.
Looking at the mattress build, on top of the bed is a cover containing GlacioTex™ — a phase change material that’s cool to the touch and changes its physical state to help people keep a lower temperature at night. After that, a layer of CopperFlex foam is, as the name suggests, infused with copper to draw heat away from the body. Add in the airflow-promoting coils, and that is one cool-sleeping mattress. Testers confirmed as much in the sleep lab, awarding the bed 4/5 stars for its cooling properties.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe also has robust edge support (4/5). However, the bed has a less robust 10-year warranty, and a more middling motion isolation score (3/5).
What the testers say: “I tested the medium version of the Aurora Luxe, and it felt really comfortable on both my side and back. However, if you’re a side sleeper looking for extra pressure relief, I’d opt for the soft version for maximum comfort.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Like About the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
Thick and plush comfort layer contours well around average-weight side sleepers.
The Aurora Luxe is a great mattress for hot sleepers. It features a cooling cover, cooling infusions in its three comfort layers, and coils that allow plenty of airflow to circulate.
If couples want a great mattress for sex, the Aurora Luxe should be a great match. Since it’s bouncy and responsive, it should be easy to move around on and switch positions.
What to Keep in Mind About the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
The Aurora Luxe will need about 24-48 hours to allow off-gassing smells to dissipate after unboxing.
Though couples may love the Aurora Luxe as a mattress for sex, the mattress doesn’t isolate motion well, so there is a chance that partners could disturb each other through the night if they move around in their sleep.
Other Customer reviews
On the Brooklyn Bedding site, over 3,000 users rated the Aurora Luxe 4.7 out of 5 stars. The top reviews on the page state that the mattress has the perfect balance between support and comfort, while some complaints say that the mattress was uncomfortable and felt similar to a blow-up bed.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Leesa
Leesa Sapira Chill
Multiple Firmnesses
Pillow Top
Breathable
Hybrid mattress
100-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale-Extended
30% off select mattresses + 2 free sleep bundle with mattress purchase See Details
The Leesa Sapira Chill is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush, Medium-Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Medium-Firm model a 6/10, which is slightly softer than average.
Price
$1,499-$2,399 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Pros of the Leesa Sapira Chill
This bed is available in several firmness options. That means a variety of sleepers should be able to pick a feel that works for their needs.
It sleeps impressively cool. The cooling cover and breathable foam and coils mean it offers strong temperature-regulation.
The pillow top gives the bed a hotel-like feel. This provides plenty of cushion while the coils offer zoned support.
Cons of the Leesa Sapira Chill
This is a more responsive mattress, so you won’t get that signtaure memory foam sinking feeling.
The Leesa Sapira Chill isn’t a cheap mattress.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Leesa Sapira Chill is a cool, comfortable bed that pairs a plush pillow top with supportive zoned coils. It’s available in three firmness options, so many sleepers should be able to choose a model that works for their sleeping position. This isn’t the cheapest option for a cooling mattress, though. Instead, check out the Cocoon Chill.
Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.3
Overall Rating
4.5
Support
4
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
4
Motion Transfer
4.5
Durability
4.5
Trial Period
4
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid boasts all its best features in its name. It’s a hybrid mattress built with pocketed coils and multiple layers of foam. It also features some really nice cooling features, such as gel infusions in the foam, a cooling cover, and a ventilated layer that helps to promote airflow. Testers also assessed a medium firmness that cushions pressure points, which makes it great for side sleepers.
Couples interested in a hybrid that excels in isolating motion might also consider the Sapira Chill, testers said, although in the mattress lab, it’s worth noting that there wasn’t a single performance category where the Sapira Chill slumped: Testers gave the bed at least 4/5 in every category, including motion transfer (4/5), cooling (4.5/5), edge support (4/5), and overall support (4.5/5).
What the testers say: “I felt really supported on the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid. It gave some nice pressure relief, and I think a lot of sleepers should feel comfortable on this mattress.” –Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
With four firmness options, this bed should work well for both back and side sleepers. The hips, shoulders, and spine should all fall into proper alignment in both positions, meaning this is a great pick for hybrid sleepers!
Plush top layer and responsive coil layers offer a classic hybrid feel.
Cooling features—breathable coils and a cooling fiber cover—should keep you sleeping comfortably all night long.
What to Keep in Mind About the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
Stomach sleepers and heavier sleepers should consider a firmer mattress that will support the hips and keep the spine properly aligned.
If you’re shopping on a budget, this may not be a great fit since this mattress comes in at just over $2,000 for a Queen.
Other Customer reviews
On the Leesa website, this mattress is rated at 4.4 out of 5 based on over 1,900 reviews from real customers. Users love the medium-firm feel of the mattress though some sleepers claim they woke up with more back pain than they went to sleep with.
While these mattresses didn’t make our top 10 recommendations, these mattresses are still a great option for people who are looking for a cooling mattress. Check out our recommendations below.
Puffy Cloud Mattress
Puffy is a comfortable memory foam mattress that is especially great for back and side sleepers.
Birch is an eco-friendly mattress-in-a-box that’s made with natural latex and organic cotton and wool. It has a base layer of individually wrapped coils and comfort layers made with chemical-free latex foam.
Birch is an eco-friendly mattress-in-a-box that’s made with natural latex and organic cotton and wool. It has a base layer of individually wrapped coils and comfort layers made with chemical-free latex foam.
Birch is an eco-friendly mattress-in-a-box that’s made with natural latex and organic cotton and wool. It has a base layer of individually wrapped coils and comfort layers made with chemical-free latex foam.
There are a lot of bold claims to be made in the world of cooling mattresses, but what actually makes a mattress cooling? Well, primarily it’s the materials, mattress type, and proprietary cooling technologies. Some mattresses use special fabrics that wick away moisture and promote airflow, keeping you cool throughout the night. Others incorporate cooling gel layers or breathable foams that dissipate heat, preventing you from getting too warm while you sleep. Finally, others are engineered with springy coils that promote airflow to help the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature. We’ll go into more detail on each of these mattress types and materials.
Testing temperature regulation in our studio
Who is a Cooling Mattress Good for?
There are many reasons why someone might benefit from a cooling mattress. If you live in a warmer climate or prefer to crank up the heat in your home, a cooling mattress will help you sleep comfortably. Couples who share a bed may also benefit from such a mattress. Additionally, because hot air rises, upstairs sleepers might find that a cooling mattress can help provide additional relief.
Who is a Cooling Mattress Not Good for?
If you enjoy your bed like you enjoy your oven–hot–you may not see the need for a cooling mattress. Those who prefer the feeling of memory foam might also not need to have cooling in mind when shopping, as memory foam is known for trapping heat. When shopping for an inexpensive mattress, some cooling technologies might put an option outside of your budget. If you’re not in the market to splurge on a luxury bed, there are many sleep accessories that can help keep you cool. Check out our list of the Best Cooling Mattress Pads and the Best Cooling Sheets of 2024 for some great options.
How Do Different Mattress Types Help with Cooling?
To help you find the best bed for your sleep needs, I’ll break down the most common types of cooling mattresses and explain how they work.
Innerspring and Hybrid
Innerspring and hybrid mattresses contain coils, which promote airflow. The springs also give the mattress a bouncy and responsive feel, which prevents sleepers from “sinking” inside the top layers and trapping body heat all around them.
Latex
Latex foam feels particularly breathable and responsive. This material doesn’t conform to the curves of your body like traditional memory foam does, which makes it a cooling option for those who tend to run hot.
Memory Foam and Polyfoam
Memory foam has a slow-moving feel that cradles pressure points and creates a “quicksand” type of feeling. Pure memory foam traps body heat, but infused memory foam helps prevent this problem. For the best results, look for memory foam that’s infused with gel, graphite or copper. These materials help pull heat away from the body and keep sleepers cool.
Many mattresses contain polyfoam, a less expensive material that feels plush and slow-moving. Most polyfoam mattresses trap body heat, but some manufacturers include cooling infusions to help combat this issue. You should also keep your eye out for aerated polyfoam, a material that’s ventilated for extra breathability and airflow.
Gel Memory Foam
Gel memory foam is one of the most popular cooling materials on the market. It consists of traditional memory foam that’s infused with cooling gel. The gel helps pull heat away from the body and keep sleepers cool. For the most effective cooling mattress, opt for a hybrid mattress that contains breathable coils and gel memory foam.
Best Mattress Cooling Materials
Now that we understand the different types of mattresses, let’s take a look at some of the best cooling materials.
TENCEL™
TENCEL™, also known as Lyocell, is made from the pulp of sustainably-sourced wood. It feels particularly breathable, but it’s also quite durable. This high-end material is often found in the best bed sheets.
Gel Infusions
Some mattresses are infused with millions of tiny gel liquid beads that help wick away moisture and drive away heat. Even though memory foam sleeps hot, these gel beads can go a long way in cooling down the bed.
Ventilated Memory Foam
Mattress companies often use ventilated memory foam, which has an open-cell construction that allows more air to flow through the bed. This fabric is less dense than standard memory foam, and it often feels more responsive. This also helps sleepers stay cool at night because it prevents people from “sinking” inside the bed and trapping heat.
What Kind of Mattress Cover is Best for Keeping Cool?
Mattress covers surround the tops of beds and often contain cooling infusions and fabrics. There are two main types of mattress covers. Let’s look closely at both:
Quilted Cover
Quilted covers contain fabrics that are, you guessed it, quilted together with another material. Most of the time, quilted covers contain memory foam. While memory foam offers pressure relief, it can also trap body heat. If you want a mattress with a quilted cover, look for something that’s infused with a cooling material such as copper, graphite or gel.
Non-quilted Cover
Non-quilted covers are typically thinner than quilted covers, which makes them feel more breathable and cool.
Why Do We Sleep Hot in the First Place?
One of the main reasons we sleep hot has to do with how our body acts during REM sleep. When we’re in this deep stage of sleep, the temperature-regulating system in our brains is asleep as well, so our bodies usually match the temperature of our bedroom and the mattress materials around us. There are also a few other specific conditions that might exacerbate feeling hot while trying to sleep. These include:
Anxiety
People who suffer from anxiety can have fluctuations in their body heat. During anxious moments, they might experience something akin to hot flashes. If they occur at night, they can cause people to wake up or have trouble going back to sleep.
Hyperthyroidism
The thyroid gland produces the thyroid hormone, which, among other things, helps regulate body temperature. With hyperthyroidism, the gland produces too much of the hormone and can cause people with the condition to feel overheated.
Menopause
Women who are just beginning their menopausal transition can sometimes experience hot flashes. These occur as estrogen levels change and a feeling of intense heat comes on that can cause night sweats.
Medications
Some prescription drugs have also been shown to cause night sweats. Antidepressants and other psychiatric drugs can lower norepinephrine levels, which can lead to excessive sweating during the day and night.
Other Conditions
Several other health conditions may affect body temperature, thereby causing people to sleep hot. For example, Graves’ Disease, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and some forms of cancer are accompanied by fluctuations in body temperature.
Tips for Hot Sleepers
In addition to getting a cooling mattress, the following tips can help you feel cool and comfortable during the night:
Opt for 100 percent cotton sheets. Synthetic fabrics can trap heat and cause the body to feel even warmer. Instead, go for sheets made of natural fabrics like cotton or bamboo, or look for bedding with cooling or sweat-wicking technology.
Get a box fan or AC unit going. An air conditioning unit will dramatically chill the air in your room, helping most people stay comfortable. But even a simple box fan can help with airflow, providing a cooling effect. Plus, fans and AC units generate white noise that blocks out other noises, helping hot sleepers fall asleep and stay asleep.
Sleep downstairs. Because heat rises, rooms on the first floor or in a basement are generally the coolest. People who have a bedroom on a higher floor and can relocate to a spot on a lower level should attempt to switch it up.
Stick your pillowcase in the freezer. Place a pillowcase (or even sheets!) in a ziplock and stick it in the freezer for a couple of hours before bed, then make the bed with the chilled bedding right before bedtime. The crisp, cool surface will help cool the body’s temperature as people fall asleep.
Take a cool shower before bed. The same idea applies here: Lowering the body temperature a tiny bit can make people feel more comfortable and less likely to overheat. If possible, make sure to shower right before getting into bed for the night. That way, the body doesn’t have time to warm up again.
Summary
Here’s a recap of our top picks for the best mattresses for hot sleepers:
Does cooling gel really make mattresses sleep cooler?
While gel can keep mattresses from overheating quite so much, they probably don’t work as well as many companies advertise. Gel memory foam, for instance, might still trap a good deal of heat.
Does latex sleep cool?
Latex generally sleeps pretty cool due to its chemical composition, and latex mattresses are typically aerated with air holes punched in the top. However, keep an eye out for mattresses that combine latex with memory or poly foam as these are more likely to trap heat.
How do I make my memory foam mattress cooler?
One quick and easy way to cool down your memory foam mattress is to add a cooling mattress topper. Choosing the right bedding such as cooling sheets can also help. And if you use a bed frame, check how breathable it is. Slatted beds are a fantastic way to promote airflow and wick away moisture.
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Marten Carlson
Lead Mattress Reviewer
About Author
Marten has been writing about mattresses and sleep health for six years. He is the lead reviewer at Mattress Clarity where he tests mattresses, bedding, and sleep accessories.
In his role here, Marten’s reviewed over 500 mattresses and 150 sleep accessories (so you can rest assured that if he recommends a product, it’s been put through the wringer in our Austin studio). In addition, he has written more than 400 articles reviewing the quality of sleep and sleep products as well as sleep health. He’s especially interested in the correlation between sleep and mental health.
Marten’s also got a personal stake in sleep health. After writing dozens of pieces on the dangers of sleep apnea, he decided to get tested for the condition. Realizing he did, in fact, suffer from sleep apnea, he immediately started using a CPAP machine. He knows all too well the importance of a healthy night’s sleep and is passionate about helping others get the healthy, restorative sleep they deserve.
He received his bachelor’s degree in Film Production from Denison University and his master’s degree in Film Studies from Emory University.
