Soft Mattress Buying Guide: Finding the Perfect Plush Sleep Surface for 2025

Ryker Nelson

A soft mattress provides a gentle cradle for your body during sleep. This type of mattress has more give than firmer options, which helps relieve pressure on joints and can feel more comfortable for side sleepers. Soft mattresses use materials like memory foam, pillow tops, or plush innerspring designs to create that sinking feeling many people enjoy.

When shopping for a soft mattress, pay attention to support features. Even soft mattresses need to keep your spine aligned. Look at the mattress depth, material quality, and whether it has zones designed for different body parts. Your weight also matters – heavier people may sink too deeply into very soft mattresses.

Sleep position plays a big role in choosing mattress firmness. Side sleepers often prefer soft mattresses because they cushion pressure points at shoulders and hips. Back and stomach sleepers typically need more support to keep their spines from bending uncomfortably. Finding the right balance between softness and support is key to waking up pain-free.

Best Soft Mattresses

Our list of top soft mattresses will help you find the perfect balance of comfort and support for your sleeping needs. These mattresses offer plush surfaces that cradle your body while providing enough structure to keep your spine aligned. From memory foam to hybrid options, we’ve researched the best choices for those who prefer a softer feel when they sleep.

Gojef Hybrid Queen Mattress

This affordable hybrid mattress offers excellent pressure relief and safety certifications for budget-conscious shoppers wanting a softer sleep surface.

Pros

  • CertiPUR-US and Oeko-Tex certified safe materials
  • Individual pocket springs minimize motion transfer
  • Simple unboxing with 100-night trial period

Cons

  • May develop indentations after extended use
  • 48-72 hour off-gassing period required
  • Medium firmness may be too firm for some soft mattress seekers

The Gojef Queen Hybrid combines memory foam comfort with pocket spring support at a price that won’t break the bank. Its 12-inch profile features seven layers including soft knitted fabric on top and hundreds of individually wrapped coils underneath. This design helps distribute your weight evenly while reducing pressure points that cause morning aches and pains.

Safety-conscious shoppers will appreciate the CertiPUR-US certification, confirming the foam contains no harmful chemicals. The mattress arrives compressed in a box, making it easy to maneuver through doorways and up stairs. Just unbox, unroll, and allow 2-3 days for full expansion and any manufacturing odors to fade before making your bed.

Motion isolation is a standout feature of this mattress. The independent pocket springs work separately to absorb movement, so you won’t feel your partner tossing and turning. Many customers report significant improvement in sleep quality, though some note the mattress softens over time. With a 100-night trial and 10-year warranty, you can try it risk-free to see if it provides the soft sleep surface you’re seeking.

Best Choice Green Tea Charcoal Mattress

The Best Choice Green Tea Charcoal Mattress offers excellent value with its cooling technology and odor-fighting features that make it a smart buy for anyone seeking plush comfort without breaking the bank.

Pros

  • Temperature-regulating gel foam keeps you cool all night
  • Natural green tea infusion eliminates odors without chemicals
  • Removable, non-slip cover for easy maintenance

Cons

  • Medium-plush feel may be too firm for some sleepers
  • Takes time to fully expand after unboxing
  • Some users report it feels smaller than standard sizes

This 12-inch Queen mattress combines three specialized layers to create a comfortable sleep surface. The top layer features moisture-wicking bamboo charcoal gel that helps regulate your body temperature. Many customers mention how the cooling properties work effectively during hot summer nights.

The middle layer contains natural green tea infused memory foam that fights odors without using harsh chemicals. This eco-friendly approach means you won’t have to worry about breathing in potentially harmful substances while you sleep. The transition foam beneath provides support by distributing your weight away from pressure points.

Your mattress arrives compressed and rolled for easy setup. Simply unbox it, let it expand for 48 hours, and enjoy a fresh, comfortable sleeping experience. The removable cover blends cotton and polyester fibers for softness while helping the mattress maintain its shape. With a 4.5-star rating from over 2,300 reviews, this mattress delivers quality sleep at a fraction of premium mattress prices.

Sweetnight Plush Hybrid Queen Mattress

The Sweetnight 12-inch Plush Hybrid Queen Mattress offers excellent comfort with its multi-layer design and motion isolation features, making it a solid choice for those seeking a soft mattress at a reasonable price.

Pros

  • Three-layer comfort system with individually pocketed springs
  • Excellent motion isolation for couples
  • Breathable fabric with good airflow

Cons

  • Too soft for some sleepers, especially heavier individuals
  • May take up to 72 hours to fully expand
  • Some users found it firmer than expected

This mattress combines comfort foam layers with pocketed springs to create a balanced sleep surface. The top layers provide softness while the springs offer targeted support for your entire body. This design works well for back, side, and stomach sleepers who prefer a plusher feel.

The breathable knit cover helps regulate temperature during sleep. You won’t feel trapped by heat as the fabric promotes airflow throughout the night. This feature is especially helpful if you tend to sleep hot or live in warmer climates.

Motion transfer is minimal thanks to the individually wrapped coils. Each spring moves independently, reducing disturbances when your partner shifts position. This makes the Sweetnight a good option for light sleepers who share their bed with someone else.

The mattress arrives compressed in a box for easy setup. You simply unbox it, position it on your bed frame, and allow it to expand. The company backs their product with a 100-night trial and 10-year warranty, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.

Certified by CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX, this mattress contains materials that meet safety standards. These certifications indicate the foams are made without harmful chemicals, which matters if you’re concerned about indoor air quality.

Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress

The Novilla Queen Mattress offers excellent cooling properties and pressure relief at an affordable price point that makes it worth considering for budget-conscious shoppers.

Pros

  • Cooling gel memory foam prevents overheating
  • Four-layer design provides good pressure relief
  • Excellent motion isolation for couples

Cons

  • Some users report edge support issues
  • May feel too soft for strict back sleepers
  • Can take up to 72 hours to fully expand

This 12-inch mattress comes with a multi-layer foam design that tackles common sleep problems. The top layer uses gel-infused memory foam to pull heat away from your body. Under that sits an egg crate-style foam layer that increases airflow throughout the mattress. This combination helps keep your sleeping temperature comfortable throughout the night.

The Novilla excels at pressure relief. Its four foam layers work together to distribute your weight evenly and reduce pressure points. This makes it a good option if you suffer from shoulder or hip pain, especially if you sleep on your side. The mattress also performs well at isolating movement, so you won’t feel your partner tossing and turning next to you.

Setting up the mattress is straightforward. It arrives compressed in a box, and you simply unroll it and let it expand. Just be patient – while the mattress takes shape quickly, it can need up to three days to fully inflate and air out. The CertiPUR-US certified foams mean you don’t need to worry about harmful chemicals. The soft rayon cover adds a nice touch of comfort that complements the medium-plush feel of the mattress.

BedStory Hybrid Queen Mattress

The BedStory Monologue hybrid mattress offers exceptional comfort and support for all sleep positions with its innovative combination of memory foam and pocket springs.

Pros

  • Excellent pain relief with 7-zone support system
  • Motion isolation ideal for couples
  • Certified safe with no fiberglass

Cons

  • May feel too soft for stomach sleepers
  • Takes up to 72 hours to fully expand
  • Edge support could be stronger for some users

This 12-inch hybrid mattress combines plush memory foam with supportive pocket springs. The top layers use 38D fusion memory foam that cradles your body while the individually wrapped coils beneath provide targeted support. You’ll notice the difference in how it relieves pressure points, especially around shoulders and hips.

Sleep quality improves with this mattress because of its excellent motion isolation. The pocket springs work independently to absorb movement, so you won’t feel your partner turning or getting up during the night. This feature makes a huge difference for light sleepers who wake easily.

Safety matters in bedroom products, and BedStory addresses this with CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certifications. The mattress contains no fiberglass, harmful chemicals, or toxic materials. Its fire-resistant properties meet safety standards without using dangerous substances that could affect your health.

BedStory stands behind their product with a generous 365-night trial period. This gives you plenty of time to test the mattress through different seasons and sleeping habits. The 10-year warranty provides additional peace of mind about your investment in better sleep.

Novilla Hybrid Queen Mattress

The Novilla Hybrid Queen Mattress offers the perfect mix of softness and support for sleepers wanting pressure relief without sacrificing proper spinal alignment.

Pros

  • Excellent motion isolation prevents partner disturbance
  • Balanced comfort from combined foam and pocket coils
  • CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certified for safety

Cons

  • May be too soft for stomach sleepers
  • Some new mattress odor initially
  • Edge support could be stronger

Amazon Basics Memory Foam Mattress

The Amazon Basics Memory Foam Mattress offers excellent value with its cooling gel technology and three-layer design, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious shoppers seeking comfort.

Pros

  • Cooling gel layer helps regulate sleeping temperature
  • Three-layer design provides good support and comfort
  • CertiPUR-US certified foam ensures safety standards

Cons

  • Takes up to 72 hours to fully expand after unpacking
  • Medium-firm feel might be too firm for some sleepers
  • Packaging can be difficult to remove without damaging the mattress

This full-size mattress combines practical features with affordability. The three-layer design includes a cooling gel foam top that helps prevent overheating during sleep. Many hot sleepers appreciate how the mattress maintains a comfortable temperature throughout the night.

Setting up this mattress requires some patience. You’ll need to unbox it and give it up to three days to expand completely. The middle layer contains airflow channels that improve breathability, while the firm base layer provides essential support for your body.

Made in the USA with both domestic and imported parts, this 12-inch mattress offers good quality at a reasonable price point. The medium-firm feel works well for back and stomach sleepers who need more support. Side sleepers might find it takes a short adjustment period. With over 6,300 ratings averaging 4.3 stars, most customers seem satisfied with their purchase.

BedStory Plush Hybrid Mattress

This plush memory foam hybrid mattress offers excellent support and comfort at an affordable price point for anyone seeking relief from back pain.

Pros

  • 365-night trial with forever warranty
  • Extra lumbar support for back pain relief
  • Fiberglass-free construction with no odor

Cons

  • May feel too soft for stomach sleepers
  • Takes time to fully expand after unboxing
  • Edge support could be stronger for some users

The BedStory hybrid mattress combines memory foam with pocket coils to create a plush sleeping surface. Its 12-inch profile features a euro top design that cradles your body while the support layers beneath prevent you from sinking too deeply. Many users report significant improvements in their back pain after switching to this mattress.

What makes this mattress stand out is its risk-free trial period. You can test it at home for a full year, which gives you plenty of time to decide if it’s right for you. The forever warranty adds extra peace of mind, showing the company stands behind their product quality. For under $1000, this mattress offers features typically found in more expensive models.

Safety matters when you’re choosing a new mattress. This one uses CertiPUR-US certified foams and contains no fiberglass in its fire barrier. The mattress arrives compressed in a box and expands quickly once unwrapped. Some customers mention it reached full size in just a few hours, though allowing a full day for expansion is recommended. The quality construction and support make this an excellent option if you want a softer mattress that still provides good back support.

FP FLEXPEDIC Plush Hybrid Queen Mattress

You should buy this plush hybrid mattress if you want a soft sleeping surface that still provides good support for all sleeping positions.

Pros

  • Perfect blend of softness with underlying support
  • Excellent motion isolation for undisturbed sleep
  • Helps reduce pressure points and pain

Cons

  • May feel too soft for those who prefer firm mattresses
  • Takes time to fully expand after unboxing
  • Some initial adjustment period needed

This 12-inch plush hybrid mattress combines the best of both worlds. The top layers feature premium memory foam that gently cradles your body. Under that soft exterior lies a system of individually wrapped pocket springs that provide essential support. This design works well for side sleepers who need pressure relief for shoulders and hips.

The mattress does an excellent job at motion isolation. Each pocket spring moves independently, which means you won’t feel your partner tossing and turning at night. This feature is particularly valuable for light sleepers who wake easily with movement. The springs also help with airflow, keeping the mattress cooler than all-foam options.

Many users report reduced back and joint pain after switching to this mattress. The soft comfort layers conform to your body shape while the supportive core helps maintain proper spinal alignment. It comes compressed in a box for easy delivery and setup. FP FLEXPEDIC offers a 100-night trial period, giving you plenty of time to decide if this plush hybrid meets your sleep needs.

KOULABR Z 12″ Hybrid Mattress

This soft hybrid mattress offers an excellent balance of comfort and support for most sleepers at a reasonable price.

Pros

  • Zoned support system helps maintain proper spinal alignment
  • Plush top layer with cooling gel foam prevents overheating
  • Strong motion isolation for couples and pet owners

Cons

  • Heavy package requires two people to move
  • May feel too soft for those needing firm support
  • Takes up to 72 hours to fully expand

The KOULABR Z 12-inch hybrid mattress combines the best of both worlds. Its plush top layer features low-resistance foam and cooling gel memory foam that gently cradles your body. Under this soft surface, you’ll find a robust system of pocket coils that provide essential support where you need it most.

What makes this mattress stand out is its zoned support design. Extra lumbar foam and enhanced coils work together in the middle section to prevent your hips from sinking too deeply. This feature helps maintain proper spinal alignment, which can reduce back pain over time. The edge support is also impressive, allowing you to use the entire surface of the mattress without feeling like you might roll off.

Sleep temperature is another area where this mattress performs well. The breathable materials and pocket spring system create better airflow throughout. This design helps wick away moisture and prevents heat from getting trapped, so you stay cool and dry all night. For couples, the motion isolation feature is particularly valuable as it minimizes disturbance when your partner moves. The CertiPUR-US certification also means the foam is free from harmful chemicals.

Zinus Cooling Memory Foam Mattress

This affordable cooling memory foam mattress offers impressive temperature regulation and pressure relief without breaking your budget.

Pros

  • Gel-infused memory foam keeps sleepers cool all night
  • Fiberglass-free construction with certified safe materials
  • Ships compressed in a smaller box reducing carbon footprint

Cons

  • Firmer feel than some might expect from the “medium” rating
  • Initial off-gassing odor requires 24-72 hours to dissipate
  • May not be soft enough for strict side sleepers

The Zinus 12-inch Cooling Essential Memory Foam Mattress stands out in the crowded soft mattress market with its focus on temperature regulation. The top layer uses breathable gel-infused Airflow Memory Foam that helps move heat away from your body. This cooling technology works with the breathable cover to keep you from overheating during sleep.

Pressure relief is another key benefit of this mattress. The memory foam conforms to your body shape, which helps reduce stress on joints and improves circulation. You’ll feel the foam gently cradle pressure points like shoulders and hips. Many users report waking with fewer aches and pains after switching to this mattress.

Safety-conscious shoppers will appreciate that this mattress is both CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certified. These certifications mean the materials don’t contain harmful chemicals that could affect your health. The mattress is also fiberglass-free, which addresses a common concern with many budget foam options.

The mattress arrives compressed in a box, making setup easy in most bedrooms. Simply unbox, unwrap, and allow 24-72 hours for the mattress to expand to its full 12-inch height. Zinus backs this product with a 10-year limited warranty, giving you long-term peace of mind for your purchase.

Tegeniss Full Size Mattress

This 12-inch hybrid mattress offers excellent comfort and support at a budget-friendly price that makes it worth considering for your bedroom upgrade.

Pros

  • Balanced medium firmness suits most sleepers
  • Good motion isolation for couples
  • Breathable design keeps you cool at night

Cons

  • Takes up to 72 hours to fully expand
  • Some size variations reported
  • May be too firm for strict side sleepers

The Tegeniss Full Size Mattress combines memory foam with pocketed coils to create a balanced sleep surface. At 12 inches thick, it provides enough depth to support different body types while preventing that “sinking” feeling some foam mattresses have. You’ll appreciate how the medium firmness hits the sweet spot – not too hard, not too soft – which research shows most Americans prefer.

Staying cool at night is a priority for many sleepers. This mattress features a breathable design with millions of air holes in the foam layer plus a high-end knit fabric cover. These features work together to promote better airflow throughout the night. If you tend to sleep hot, this cooling design could be a significant improvement over traditional memory foam.

Motion transfer is minimal thanks to the individually pocketed springs. Each coil moves independently, which means your partner’s movements won’t disturb your sleep. The mattress also offers good edge support and can handle up to 700 pounds, making it suitable for most couples. With a 15-year warranty, this vacuum-packed mattress ships directly to your door for convenient setup. Just remember to allow enough time for it to fully expand before making your bed.

Amazon Basics Memory Foam Mattress

The Amazon Basics 8-inch Twin Memory Foam Mattress offers a plush sleeping experience at an affordable price point that budget-conscious shoppers will appreciate.

Pros

  • Three-layer design provides both softness and support
  • CertiPUR-US certified foam ensures safety standards
  • Breathable construction with air holes for better temperature regulation

Cons

  • May feel too soft for some sleepers
  • Takes up to 72 hours to fully expand
  • Initial odor requires airing out in a well-ventilated space

This budget-friendly mattress features three distinct foam layers that work together to create a comfortable sleeping surface. The top layer uses plush memory foam that conforms to your body’s shape and helps relieve pressure points. You’ll notice how it adapts to different sleeping positions, making it suitable for side, back, or stomach sleepers.

Breathability isn’t overlooked in this affordable option. The middle layer contains air holes that improve circulation within the mattress, while the wavy bottom layer enhances airflow even more. This design helps prevent heat buildup that sometimes makes memory foam mattresses uncomfortable during warmer months.

Setup requires patience but minimal effort. The mattress arrives compressed in a box, and you simply unpack it and allow it to expand. Many users report it reaches full thickness faster than the recommended 72-hour waiting period. At 8 inches thick with a twin size of 75 × 39 inches, it fits standard twin frames and works well for children’s rooms, guest bedrooms, or adults with limited space.

Safety certifications add peace of mind to your purchase. The CertiPUR-US certified foam means it’s made without harmful chemicals, while the Oeko-Tex certified top fabric ensures the surface touching your body meets health standards. The polyester blend cover completes the package with a clean white and grey design that looks modern in any bedroom setting.

BedStory Hybrid King Mattress

You’ll sleep better on this BedStory hybrid mattress with its balance of comfort and support for most body types.

Pros

  • Combines memory foam and pocket springs for optimal comfort
  • Absorbs motion well for undisturbed sleep
  • Fiberglass-free and safety certified materials

Cons

  • Some users find it firmer than expected
  • Actual dimensions may differ from advertised specs
  • Takes time to fully expand after unboxing

This 14-inch hybrid mattress blends plush memory foam with supportive pocket springs. The design targets pressure points while maintaining proper spine alignment. Many customers report reduced back pain after switching to this mattress, which makes it a good choice if you wake up sore.

The edge reinforcement adds stability across the entire surface. You can sit or sleep near the edge without feeling like you might roll off. The individually wrapped coils work to isolate motion, meaning your partner’s movements won’t disturb your sleep. This feature makes the mattress especially suitable for couples.

Safety matters in bedding products. BedStory has made this mattress without fiberglass and includes CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certifications. The materials meet fire resistance standards without harmful chemicals. A 365-night trial period gives you plenty of time to decide if this mattress works for your sleep needs. The 10-year warranty offers additional peace of mind for your investment.

Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress

This affordable memory foam mattress offers excellent comfort and pressure relief for anyone seeking a soft sleep surface without breaking the bank.

Pros

  • Zoned pressure relief technology helps reduce body aches
  • Green tea and charcoal infusions keep mattress fresh
  • Certified safe materials with no harmful chemicals

Cons

  • Only 6 inches thick, which may be too thin for some sleepers
  • Twin size supports only 250 pounds maximum weight
  • May take up to 72 hours to fully expand

The Zinus 6-inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress combines comfort with value in a surprisingly affordable package. Your body will thank you as the pressure-relieving memory foam adapts to your shape during sleep. This mattress helps improve circulation and reduces stress on joints, making it a good choice if you often wake up with aches and pains.

What sets this mattress apart is its use of natural infusions. Green tea and purified charcoal work together to keep your sleep surface fresh night after night. You won’t have to worry about strange odors or chemical smells that can come with many foam mattresses. The mattress also comes certified safe – both CertiPUR-US foam certification and OEKO-TEX certified cover ensure you’re sleeping on materials made without harmful chemicals.

Setup couldn’t be simpler with this bed-in-a-box option. The mattress arrives compressed in a small box, reducing shipping carbon footprint. Once unpacked, it begins expanding right away, though giving it the full 72 hours ensures you get the proper thickness and support. A 10-year warranty backs your purchase, giving you peace of mind about your investment. For a soft, comfortable sleep surface that won’t empty your wallet, this Zinus mattress delivers impressive quality.

Buying Guide

Finding the right soft mattress can make a big difference in your sleep quality. This guide will help you choose a mattress that meets your needs.

Firmness Level

Soft mattresses typically range from 3-5 on the firmness scale (with 10 being the firmest). Your body type and sleep position affect which level works best for you.

Body Type Recommended Softness
Under 130 lbs Very soft to soft (3-4)
130-230 lbs Medium-soft (4-5)
Over 230 lbs Consider medium (5-6)

Materials to Consider

The materials in your mattress determine how soft it feels and how long it lasts.

Memory Foam: Offers deep contouring and pressure relief. Great for side sleepers who need cushioning for shoulders and hips.

Latex: Provides a bouncy softness with better cooling than memory foam. It’s also more durable and eco-friendly.

Hybrid: Combines coil support with soft comfort layers. Good balance of softness and support.

Sleep Position Compatibility

Your sleep position should guide your mattress choice.

  • Side sleepers: Benefit most from soft mattresses (3-5 firmness)
  • Back sleepers: Medium-soft (4-5) usually works best
  • Stomach sleepers: May need medium (5-6) to prevent spine misalignment

Testing Period

Always check if the mattress comes with a sleep trial. You need at least 30 days to know if a mattress truly works for you.

Look for warranties that cover premature softening or sagging, which are common issues with soft mattresses.