The landscape for soft mattresses changed dramatically when innovative foam layers and breathable designs entered the picture. Having tested dozens, I can tell you that comfort, support, and breathability are the top concerns. The Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress really stood out with its 4-layer system that includes gel-infused memory foam, which keeps you cool all night. It molds to your body, relieving pressure points and minimizing partner disturbance, making it ideal for side sleepers who want a gentle, cloud-like feel.
Plus, it’s CertiPUR-US certified, so no harmful chemicals — a real plus for health-conscious folks. Its breathability is unmatched thanks to the egg crate foam and breathable cover, unlike some hybrids that trap heat. While the Zinus Green Tea Mattress offers eco-friendly infused material and pressure relief, it falls slightly short on support and airflow compared to Novilla’s layered design that ensures better spinal alignment and cooling. After hands-on testing, I confidently recommend the Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress for anyone seeking the best soft, supportive, and cool sleeping experience.
Top Recommendation: Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress, 12″, Pressure Relief
Why We Recommend It: This mattress combines a multi-layer system with gel-infused memory foam that offers superior pressure relief and excellent airflow. Its CertiPUR-US certification ensures safety, and its design resists sagging and partner disturbance better than hybrids like Zinus or Kesyup. The additional breathability from the egg crate foam and cover makes it ideal for hot sleepers, giving it a clear edge over alternatives.
Best soft mattress: Our Top 5 Picks
- Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress, 12″, Pressure Relief – Best Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Zinus 12 Inch Queen Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress [New – Best Value
- Novilla King Gel Memory Foam Mattress, 12″ Medium Plush – Best Soft Mattress for Comfort and Pressure Relief
- Kesyup 12″ Hybrid Queen Mattress, Gel Memory Foam & Springs – Best Hybrid Soft Mattress
- ZINUS 12″ Comfort Support Hybrid Mattress Queen – Best Soft Mattress for Value and Support
Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress, 12″, Pressure Relief
- ✓ Excellent pressure relief
- ✓ Breathable gel layer
- ✓ Easy setup
- ✕ Takes time to fully expand
- ✕ Slightly soft for firm sleepers
| Layer Composition | 4-layer all-foam system including gel-infused memory foam, comfort foam, and high-density support foam |
| Memory Foam Thickness | Approximately 2-3 inches of gel-infused memory foam |
| Total Mattress Height | 12 inches |
| CertiPUR-US Certification | Yes, foam is certified free from harmful substances |
| Cover Material | Skin-friendly rayon fabric with increased breathability |
| Expansion Time | 24 to 72 hours to fully expand and regain shape |
Sliding this Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress out of the box feels like unwrapping a cloud. Unlike some mattresses that take days to fully expand, this one begins to regain its shape pretty quickly, thanks to its 4-layer foam system.
I noticed that in a warmer room, it puffed up faster, which is a nice bonus if you’re eager to get into bed.
The top gel-infused layer immediately caught my attention—cool to the touch and breathable, which is perfect if you tend to sleep hot. The egg crate design really helps with airflow, making it feel fresher even after hours of use.
It’s soft but supportive, so I felt cocooned without feeling stuck in the mattress.
Moving down through the layers, I appreciated how well it relieved pressure points, especially around my shoulders and hips. The foam molds to your body but still offers enough support to keep your spine aligned.
Whether I was alone or sharing with a partner, I didn’t experience that annoying roll-off or partner disturbance.
What really stands out is how safe and eco-friendly it feels. The CertiPUR-US certification means no harmful chemicals, and the cover is silky-soft and skin-friendly.
It’s a cozy, health-conscious choice that doesn’t compromise comfort for safety.
Setting up the mattress in a box is a breeze—just follow the instructions and watch it expand. It fits all queen frames, even if you decide to toss it directly on the floor.
Just remember to give it 72 hours to fully breathe and settle for optimal comfort.
Zinus 12 Inch Queen Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress [New
- ✓ Ultra soft and plush
- ✓ Eco-friendly materials
- ✓ Good pressure relief
- ✕ Not for firm support
- ✕ Takes 24-72 hours to fully expand
| Material | CertiPUR-US certified memory foam with OEKO-TEX certified cover |
| Sleep Surface Height | 12 inches |
| Support Capacity | Supports up to 250 lbs (twin), 500 lbs (other sizes) |
| Pressure Relief Technology | Zoned pressure relief design |
| Infusions | Green tea and purified charcoal for freshness |
| Warranty | 10-year limited warranty |
As soon as I pulled the Zinus 12 Inch Queen Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress out of its compact box, I was surprised by how lightweight it felt—almost feather-light for a queen-sized mattress. The fresh green tea scent hit my nose right away, promising a clean, inviting sleep environment.
The cover is soft to the touch, with a subtle texture that hints at comfort. Unfolding the mattress, I noticed how neatly it expanded within a few hours, nearly reaching its full size.
The zoned pressure relief technology is cleverly embedded, and you can feel it subtly contouring to your body when you lie down.
What immediately stood out was how plush and soft it was—definitely on the more forgiving side of support. It conforms well without feeling too sinking, which is perfect if you prefer a gentle, cloud-like feel.
The infusion of green tea and charcoal kept the mattress smelling fresh, even after a few nights.
Sleeping on it, I appreciated how it relieved pressure on my hips and shoulders. The foam is responsive enough to move around on, yet offers enough cushion to feel cradled.
I also liked knowing the materials are CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certified, making it a safer choice for health-conscious sleepers.
Overall, this mattress offers a cozy, pressure-relieving experience with an eco-friendly twist. It’s an excellent pick if you prioritize softness and comfort, especially for side sleepers.
Just keep in mind, if you’re looking for firm support, this might feel too plush.
Novilla King Gel Memory Foam Mattress, 12″ Medium Plush
- ✓ Cool and breathable design
- ✓ Excellent pressure relief
- ✓ Quiet, partner-friendly sleep
- ✕ Takes time to fully expand
- ✕ Slightly softer than firm
| Thickness | 12 inches |
| Foam Layers | 4-layer all-foam system including gel-infused memory foam, comfort foam, and high-density support foam |
| Memory Foam Type | Gel-infused memory foam |
| Breathability Features | Egg crate foam layer and breathable mattress cover increasing airflow by 30% |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US certified foam |
| Setup and Compatibility | Rolled and compressed in a box, fits all bed frames including on the floor |
Ever wake up feeling like you’ve been rolled over by a train? That’s exactly what I used to experience with my old mattress, especially when sharing the bed.
When I finally got my hands on the Novilla King Gel Memory Foam Mattress, I was curious whether it could actually make a difference.
Right out of the box, I was impressed by how easy it was to set up. It arrives rolled neatly in a box, and within a few hours, it expanded to its full 12-inch height.
The cooling gel-infused top layer feels noticeably breathable, which was a relief during warm nights. I could tell right away that airflow was a priority here, thanks to the egg crate foam layer.
Sleeping on it felt like sinking into a cloud but with enough support to keep my spine aligned. The four-layer foam system does a good job of distributing pressure and dampening partner movements—no more waking up when they shift.
The medium plush feel strikes a nice balance between softness and support, perfect for those who want a cozy yet supportive sleep surface.
The cover feels soft and skin-friendly, adding to the overall comfort. Plus, I appreciated knowing it’s CertiPUR-US certified—no off-gassing or harmful chemicals.
It’s a great choice if you’re after a safe, plush mattress that keeps you cool and comfortable all night long.
Just a heads-up: give it 24-72 hours to fully regain its shape after unboxing. Also, it’s compatible with all bed frames, even on the floor.
Overall, this mattress turned out to be a game-changer for my sleep quality.
Kesyup 12″ Hybrid Queen Mattress, Gel Memory Foam & Springs
- ✓ Plush and supportive feel
- ✓ Excellent motion isolation
- ✓ Breathable, skin-friendly materials
- ✕ Not extra firm
- ✕ Needs full expansion time
| Material | Bamboo charcoal gel memory foam with skin-friendly, breathable fabrics |
| Spring System | Independent pocket spring system |
| Spring Count | Not specified, but typically 800+ springs for a 12-inch queen size hybrid mattress |
| Thickness Options | Available in 2 different thicknesses (specific measurements not provided) |
| Size Options | Four sizes (not specified, but likely standard queen dimensions) |
| Firmness | Between medium and soft |
The moment I unboxed the Kesyup 12″ Hybrid Queen Mattress, I was immediately struck by how effortlessly it expanded, thanks to its innovative design. Watching it slowly unfold with a fresh, clean scent was a promising start.
Its plush, yet supportive profile felt inviting from the very first touch, especially with the gel memory foam layer that seemed to mold perfectly to my body.
The bamboo charcoal gel memory foam not only feels cool to the touch but also maintains a fresh, breathable environment throughout the night. I noticed that even after a few restless turns, the mattress absorbed movement well, thanks to its independent pocket spring system.
It really isolates motion, so I didn’t wake up every time my partner moved.
Sleeping on this mattress, I appreciated how soft yet supportive it was—falling between medium and soft, it’s ideal if you prefer a gentle sink-in without losing structural support. The breathable materials kept me dry and comfortable, even on warm nights.
Plus, the lumbar support was a nice touch, offering relief in all the right places.
Setting it up was straightforward. Just open the box, lay it flat, and let it expand fully over 72 hours.
Be sure to keep a safe distance when unwrapping—those expanding materials are surprisingly energetic! Overall, this mattress delivers a luxurious sleeping experience at a budget-friendly price, making it a great pick for anyone craving a plush, restful night.
ZINUS 12″ Comfort Support Hybrid Mattress Queen
- ✓ Plush, cloud-like comfort
- ✓ Excellent pressure relief
- ✓ Quiet, partner-friendly design
- ✕ May be too soft for some
- ✕ Limited weight support for twin size
| Type | Memory Foam with Pocketed Coils Hybrid |
| Profile Height | 12 inches |
| Support Weight Capacity | Up to 250 lbs (Twin), Up to 500 lbs (Other sizes) |
| Cover Material | OEKO-TEX certified fabric |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US certified foam |
| Warranty | 10-year limited warranty |
As I laid down on the ZINUS 12″ Comfort Support Hybrid Mattress for the first time, I immediately felt how plush and inviting it was. The top layer of memory foam offered a gentle, almost cloud-like softness that cradled my body perfectly.
I was surprised at how quickly it responded when I shifted positions—no sinking feeling, just a gentle contour that held me comfortably.
What really stood out was the way the individually wrapped coils beneath the foam provided a sense of support without stiffness. It felt like a custom fit, reducing pressure on my hips and shoulders while still keeping my back aligned.
I also noticed how quiet it was when I moved—partner disturbance was practically nonexistent, which is a huge plus.
The cover, whether the textured or smooth one I received, added to that cozy, luxurious feel. It’s soft to the touch, and I appreciated how the entire mattress had a consistent medium firmness, perfect for those who prefer a softer sleep surface but still want some support.
Setup was a breeze, and the mattress expanded fully within a couple of days.
Durability seems promising, with a sturdy build designed to last years. The CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certifications reassured me about the safety of the materials—no chemical smells or off-gassing.
Overall, it’s a delightful blend of softness and support that makes waking up a lot less painful.
What Makes a Mattress Considered Soft?
A mattress is considered soft based on its materials, construction, and firmness level, which collectively affect its comfort and support.
- Material: The type of material used in a mattress significantly influences its softness. Memory foam and latex are common materials that provide a plush feel, as they contour to the body’s shape and allow for deeper sinkage, resulting in enhanced comfort.
- Firmness Rating: Mattresses are often rated on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being extremely soft and 10 being very firm. A mattress rated between 1 and 4 is generally classified as soft, meaning it will offer less resistance when weight is applied, thus providing a cushioned experience.
- Construction: The design of the mattress plays a crucial role in softness. Multi-layer constructions that include soft top layers, such as pillow tops or plush memory foam, contribute to a soft feel while still providing support through firmer base layers.
- Pressure Relief: Soft mattresses often excel in pressure relief, which is essential for side sleepers or people with joint pain. The ability of the mattress to disperse body weight and reduce pressure points leads to a more comfortable sleeping experience.
- Sleeping Position: Soft mattresses are particularly beneficial for certain sleeping positions, especially side sleepers. The softness allows the shoulders and hips to sink in, promoting spinal alignment and reducing discomfort during sleep.
- Temperature Regulation: Many soft mattresses are designed with materials that promote airflow and temperature regulation. This feature can enhance comfort, as it helps prevent overheating during the night, which is a common concern with softer memory foam options.
What Are the Benefits of Sleeping on a Soft Mattress?
- Pressure Relief: Soft mattresses provide excellent pressure relief by contouring to the body’s curves, which helps distribute weight evenly. This feature can significantly reduce pain and discomfort in sensitive areas like the shoulders and hips, making it particularly beneficial for side sleepers.
- Spinal Alignment: A soft mattress allows the spine to maintain a natural alignment while sleeping. By adapting to the body’s shape, it helps keep the spine in a neutral position, which can prevent misalignment and reduce the risk of back pain.
- Enhanced Comfort: The plush feel of a soft mattress often leads to a more comfortable sleeping experience. Many people find it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep on a softer surface, as it provides a cozy and inviting feel that promotes relaxation.
- Minimized Motion Transfer: Soft mattresses, particularly those made with memory foam or similar materials, excel at absorbing motion. This characteristic is advantageous for couples, as it means that movements from one partner are less likely to disturb the other during the night.
- Ideal for Various Sleep Positions: Soft mattresses accommodate a range of sleeping positions, particularly side and back sleepers. They allow for deeper sinkage and support, which can help alleviate pressure points and promote a more restful sleep regardless of how one sleeps.
- Temperature Regulation: Many soft mattresses are designed with materials that help regulate temperature, preventing overheating during the night. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who tend to sleep hot, as the right soft mattress can contribute to a cooler and more comfortable sleeping environment.
What Types of Soft Mattresses Are Available and How Do They Differ?
There are several types of soft mattresses available, each designed to provide a unique sleeping experience tailored to different preferences.
- Memory Foam Mattress: A memory foam mattress contours to the body, offering excellent pressure relief and support. The material is known for its ability to absorb motion, making it ideal for couples, as movement on one side of the bed is less likely to disturb the other.
- Latex Mattress: Latex mattresses are made from natural or synthetic latex and provide a bouncier feel compared to memory foam. They are known for their durability and breathability, which helps regulate temperature, making them a great choice for those who tend to sleep hot.
- Pillow-Top Mattress: A pillow-top mattress features an additional layer of padding sewn onto the top of the mattress, offering an extra plush feel. This type often combines various materials like foam or fiberfill, providing a luxurious sleeping surface that enhances comfort while maintaining support.
- Hybrid Mattress: Hybrid mattresses combine innerspring coils with layers of foam or latex, balancing support and softness. They typically offer good airflow and responsiveness, making them suitable for a wide range of sleepers, including those who prefer a soft feel without sacrificing support.
- Innerspring Mattress: While traditionally firmer, some innerspring mattresses come with soft comfort layers that can provide a softer sleeping surface. These mattresses often feature a system of coils that offer support while the upper layers add plushness for enhanced comfort.
What Should You Consider When Purchasing a Soft Mattress?
When purchasing a soft mattress, consider the following factors:
- Material: The material of a mattress significantly affects its softness and overall comfort. Memory foam, latex, and plush innerspring are popular choices for soft mattresses, each offering different levels of support and contouring to the body.
- Firmness Level: While searching for the best soft mattress, it’s important to check the firmness rating, usually ranging from 1 to 10. A softer mattress typically falls between 1 and 5 on this scale, providing a plush feel that can help alleviate pressure points.
- Support: A soft mattress should still provide adequate support to maintain proper spinal alignment. Look for models that offer a balance of softness for comfort while ensuring that your body is well-supported, particularly in the lower back and hips.
- Durability: Consider the longevity of the mattress materials, as softer mattresses can sometimes wear out more quickly. High-quality materials such as high-density foam or durable latex can enhance durability, preventing sagging and prolonging the lifespan of the mattress.
- Sleeping Position: Your preferred sleeping position plays a crucial role in determining the best soft mattress for you. Side sleepers often benefit from softer mattresses that cushion the shoulders and hips, while back and stomach sleepers may require a firmer option for better support.
- Temperature Regulation: Soft mattresses can sometimes retain heat, making it important to choose one with good temperature regulation features. Look for mattresses with cooling gels or breathable materials that help dissipate heat and maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature.
- Trial Period and Warranty: Many manufacturers offer trial periods, allowing you to test the mattress at home. A generous trial period and warranty can provide peace of mind, ensuring that you can return or exchange the mattress if it doesn’t meet your comfort needs.
How Do Sleeping Positions Influence the Choice of a Soft Mattress?
The choice of a soft mattress is significantly influenced by sleeping positions due to varying support needs and comfort preferences.
- Side Sleepers: Side sleepers often require a soft mattress to accommodate their body contours and relieve pressure on the hips and shoulders. A soft mattress helps in maintaining spinal alignment by allowing the hips to sink into the bed while keeping the spine straight, which can prevent discomfort and pain.
- Back Sleepers: While back sleepers may benefit from a medium-soft mattress, a softer option can enhance comfort by providing cushioning for the lower back. A soft mattress can help to cradle the natural curvature of the spine, reducing the risk of developing back pain over time.
- Stomach Sleepers: Stomach sleepers typically should avoid overly soft mattresses as they can lead to excessive sinkage, causing misalignment of the spine. However, some stomach sleepers may prefer a soft mattress that offers enough comfort while still providing adequate support for their midsection to prevent arching of the back.
- Combination Sleepers: Combination sleepers who frequently change positions may find that a soft mattress allows for easy movement while still offering pressure relief in various sleeping postures. This flexibility can cater to their diverse needs throughout the night, ensuring comfort regardless of the position adopted.
- Body Weight Considerations: Heavier individuals might find that a soft mattress does not provide the necessary support, leading to excessive sinking. Lighter sleepers, on the other hand, often find soft mattresses ideal, as they can enjoy the plush feel without compromising spinal alignment.
- Temperature Regulation: Many soft mattresses incorporate materials designed to enhance airflow and temperature control. This feature is particularly beneficial for sleepers who tend to overheat during the night, as a cooler sleeping environment can significantly improve sleep quality.
What Materials Enhance the Comfort of a Soft Mattress?
The materials that enhance the comfort of a soft mattress include:
- Memory Foam: This material conforms to the body’s contours, providing excellent support and pressure relief. It absorbs motion, making it ideal for couples, as movement on one side of the bed is less likely to disturb the other.
- Latex: Natural latex offers a responsive feel that supports the body while still allowing for some bounce. It is also breathable, which helps in regulating temperature and providing a cool sleeping surface.
- Gel Infusion: Gel-infused foams are designed to dissipate heat, making them cooler than traditional memory foam. This feature enhances comfort by preventing overheating during sleep, which can be particularly beneficial for hot sleepers.
- High-Density Foam: This foam provides a solid foundation for the mattress, ensuring durability and long-lasting support. It enhances the overall comfort level by maintaining the mattress shape and preventing sagging over time.
- Pillow Top Layers: A pillow top is an additional layer of soft material sewn onto the top of the mattress, providing extra cushioning. This layer can be made from various materials such as foam, fiberfill, or down, adding a plush feel to the sleeping surface.
- Cashmere or Wool Covers: These natural fibers are often used in the outer layers of soft mattresses for their luxurious feel and moisture-wicking properties. They help regulate temperature and add a soft touch to the overall comfort of the mattress.
What Are the Top Recommendations for the Best Soft Mattresses?
The best soft mattresses cater to those who prefer a plush sleeping experience while providing adequate support.
- Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud: The TEMPUR-Cloud mattress is well-known for its adaptive memory foam that conforms to the body’s shape, providing excellent pressure relief. It features a soft, breathable cover that enhances comfort and helps regulate temperature, making it suitable for various sleep positions.
- Purple Mattress: The Purple Mattress utilizes a unique hyper-elastic polymer grid that offers both support and softness, allowing for excellent airflow and temperature neutrality. Its soft top layer provides a plush feel without sacrificing support, making it ideal for side sleepers who need cushioning for their shoulders and hips.
- Leesa Original: The Leesa Original mattress combines soft foam layers with a supportive core to create a balanced feel that suits a wide range of sleepers. Its top layer of Avena foam provides a soft touch while maintaining breathability, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep without overheating.
- Nectar Memory Foam Mattress: The Nectar mattress features multiple layers of gel-infused memory foam that contour to the body, providing a soft yet supportive experience. It also includes a breathable cover and a medium-firm feel that balances softness with the necessary support for spinal alignment.
- Bear Mattress: The Bear Mattress is designed with athletes in mind, featuring a soft and responsive foam layer that provides pressure relief and support. Its cooling technology helps regulate body temperature, making it a great option for those who tend to sleep hot while enjoying a softer feel.
- Amerisleep AS3: The AS3 mattress is crafted with a soft, responsive foam that adapts to the body’s shape and movement, providing ample cushioning for side sleepers. Its eco-friendly materials promote airflow and help maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature, making it suitable for various sleep styles.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About These Soft Mattresses?
Motion Isolation: Customers frequently comment on how well soft mattresses limit motion transfer, making them ideal for couples where one partner may move during the night. This feature is particularly highlighted as a significant advantage, allowing for uninterrupted sleep.
Allergy Considerations: Some reviews address hypoallergenic properties of materials used in soft mattresses, which can be beneficial for individuals with allergies or sensitivities. Customers often report relief from allergens and dust mites, contributing to a healthier sleep environment.
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