For back sleepers, finding the right mattress can be a challenge. Where side sleepers tend to need a soft mattress with lots of pressure relief and stomach sleepers often require something firmer, folks who sleep on their back are stuck in the middle, and will want a bed that’s both comfortable and supportive. Fortunately, I’ve reviewed a lot of mattresses and have come up with ten standouts that should be a great match.
Our Verdict: What’s the Best Mattress for Back Sleepers?
Our expert reviewers chose the DreamCloud Premier as the best mattress for back sleepers due to its memory foam contouring, hybrid construction, and balanced support for those who sleep on their back.
Best Mattresses for Back Sleepers
- DreamCloud Premier – Best Overall
- Helix Midnight – Best Mattress for Couples
- Emma Hybrid Comfort – Best Firm Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Saatva – Best Innerspring Mattress
- WinkBeds EcoCloud – Best Mattress for Heavy Back Sleepers
- Nolah Evolution – Best Mattress for Back Pain
- Bear – Best Cooling Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe – Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Plank Firm Luxe – Best Mattress That Won’t Sag
- Birch Natural – Best Eco-Friendly Mattress for Back Sleepers
Best Mattress for Back Sleepers 2024: Our Video Roundup
![](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/wrnKQDu4GfQ/maxresdefault.jpg)
Compare the Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
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DreamCloud Premier Mattress | Helix Midnight Mattress | Emma Hybrid Comfort | Saatva Mattress | WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Bear Original Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Luxe Mattress | Birch Natural Mattress | |
Rating | ||||||||||
Firmness | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Firm: 8/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 7/10 |
Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Innerspring | Latex | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
Cooling | ✓ | -- | ✓ | ✓ | -- | -- | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Sleep Position | Back | Back & Side | Back & Stomach | Back & Stomach | Back & Side | Back & Side | Back & Side | Back & Side | Combination | Back & Stomach |
How We Chose the Best Mattresses for Back Sleepers
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.
![A man sleeps on his back on the Nolah Evolution Comfort Plus](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/nolah-evolution-comfort-plus-back-sleeping.jpg)
To identify the Best Mattresses for Back Sleepers, we’ve paid special attention to support, durability, and other relevant criteria. For example, eight of our 10 products scored a 4 out of 5 or above for support, while seven of them scored a 4 out of 5 or above for durability.
Best Overall Mattress for Back Sleepers- DreamCloud Premier
DreamCloud Premier Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$1169 - $2998
DreamCloud Premier Mattress
![A wide shot of the DreamCloud Premier](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/dreamcloud-premier-featured-image.jpg)
DreamCloud Premier is a high-quality, luxury mattress that should appeal to a wide range of sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$1169 - $2998
![A wide shot of the DreamCloud Premier](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/dreamcloud-premier-featured-image.jpg)
DreamCloud Premier Mattress
DreamCloud Premier is a high-quality, luxury mattress that should appeal to a wide range of sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$1169 - $2998
Best Mattress for Back Sleeping Couples – Helix Midnight
Helix Midnight Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$936 - $1748
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
![the Helix Midnight Luxe sits on a bed frame in a bedroom](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/DSC04470-Edit.jpg)
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$936 - $1748
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
![the Helix Midnight Luxe sits on a bed frame in a bedroom](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/DSC04470-Edit.jpg)
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$936 - $1748
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Firm Mattress for Back Sleepers – Emma Hybrid Comfort
Emma Hybrid Comfort
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$725 - $1489
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Emma Hybrid Comfort
![emma comfort hybrid us airtable](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/emma-comfort-hybrid-us-airtable-768x525.jpg)
The Emma Hybrid Comfort is a hybrid mattress that is designed to support all weights while also promoting a cool night of sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$725 - $1489
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
![emma comfort hybrid us airtable](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/emma-comfort-hybrid-us-airtable-768x525.jpg)
Emma Hybrid Comfort
The Emma Hybrid Comfort is a hybrid mattress that is designed to support all weights while also promoting a cool night of sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$725 - $1489
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Innerspring Mattress for Back Sleepers – Saatva
Saatva Mattress
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$1395 - $2990
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
![Saatva Mattress Review](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/saatva-mattress-review.jpg)
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$1395 - $2990
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
![Saatva Mattress Review](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/saatva-mattress-review.jpg)
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$1395 - $2990
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Mattress for Heavy Back Sleepers – WinkBeds EcoCloud
WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
Material
Latex
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$1399 - $2399
WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
![winkbed ecocloud e1622116270355](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/winkbed-ecocloud-e1622116270355.jpeg)
The WinkBeds EcoCloud is a very supportive latex hybrid mattress.
Material
Latex
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$1399 - $2399
![winkbed ecocloud e1622116270355](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/winkbed-ecocloud-e1622116270355.jpeg)
WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
The WinkBeds EcoCloud is a very supportive latex hybrid mattress.
Material
Latex
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$1399 - $2399
Best Mattress for Back Pain – Nolah Evolution
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$1499 - $3198
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
![Product Image](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/IMG_9033-scaled-e1663352531553.jpg)
The Nolah Evolution is a high-end hybrid mattress that features great support, comfort, and cooling.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$1499 - $3198
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
![Product Image](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/IMG_9033-scaled-e1663352531553.jpg)
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
The Nolah Evolution is a high-end hybrid mattress that features great support, comfort, and cooling.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$1499 - $3198
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Cooling Mattress for Back Sleepers – Bear
Bear Original Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Original Mattress
![the Bear Original mattress sits on a bed frame](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/DSC04343-Edit.jpg)
The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
![the Bear Original mattress sits on a bed frame](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/DSC04343-Edit.jpg)
Bear Original Mattress
The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Sleepers – Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$165 - $2665
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress
![Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Mattress Review](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/brooklyn-bedding-aurora-featured-image.jpg)
The Aurora Luxe mattress from Brooklyn Bedding is a high-quality hybrid mattress that has cooling and pressure relieving components. The high-quality materials and thoughtful construction makes it a good value.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$165 - $2665
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
![Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Mattress Review](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/brooklyn-bedding-aurora-featured-image.jpg)
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress
The Aurora Luxe mattress from Brooklyn Bedding is a high-quality hybrid mattress that has cooling and pressure relieving components. The high-quality materials and thoughtful construction makes it a good value.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$165 - $2665
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Mattress That Won’t Sag – Plank Firm Luxe
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Luxe Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 Nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Luxe Mattress
![Plank Hybrid Coupon](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/plank-hybrid-mattress-coupon.jpg)
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress that has two firmness options: firm and extra firm. This is one of the firmest mattresses we've ever tested and could be a good fit for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
120 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
![Plank Hybrid Coupon](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/plank-hybrid-mattress-coupon.jpg)
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Luxe Mattress
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress that has two firmness options: firm and extra firm. This is one of the firmest mattresses we've ever tested and could be a good fit for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 Nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Best Eco-Friendly Mattress for Back Sleepers – Birch Natural
Birch Natural Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Birch Natural Mattress
![Birch mattress](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/birch-featured-image-768x445.jpg)
Birch is an eco-friendly mattress-in-a-box that’s made with natural latex and organic cotton and wool. It has a base layer of individually wrapped coils and comfort layers made with chemical-free latex foam.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
![Birch mattress](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/birch-featured-image-768x445.jpg)
Birch Natural Mattress
Birch is an eco-friendly mattress-in-a-box that’s made with natural latex and organic cotton and wool. It has a base layer of individually wrapped coils and comfort layers made with chemical-free latex foam.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Important Considerations When Shopping for The Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
Mattress Firmness
At Mattress Clarity, we always rate firmness on a scale of 1 to 10. Back sleepers will want to find something in the medium-firm range of 6.5 to 7. If the mattress is too soft, they might not get the support they need, and their hips could sink in too far (potentially leading to lower back pain). If the mattress is too firm, they won’t sink in far enough and get the contouring that they need.
Let’s dig into that a little further. Dr. Daniel Davids, a DPT and Mattress Clarity Expert Network Member, explains that we actually require natural motion while we sleep, which can be unhealthily reduced by a too-soft bed. Unlike standing, walking, or other upright activities, Davids says actions like lying down and sleeping allow our muscles to be in a relatively off position. Because our muscles provide stability to our joints when they’re relaxed, our joints also relax. However, he says that if we maintain a position for too long that pushes the limits of our joint range, we may wake up with pain or stiffness.
Likewise, a mattress that’s too stiff puts undue pressure on certain areas of our body with “bony prominences” — areas where the bone isn’t as covered with soft tissue (muscle and fat), says Davids. This issue can even lead to skin breakdown as we see with seniors and bedsores. Check out our best mattresses for seniors page to see alternative recommendations.
Comfort Layer Thickness
When consumers are looking at the design of the mattress, they should pay close attention to the thickness of the comfort layer. While a thick comfort layer can be nice for those who sleep on their side, back sleepers won’t want it to be too thick. A comfort layer between 2″ and 4″ should allow them to sink into the mattress just enough while still getting enough support for their back and cushioning in their lumbar area.
Your Weight
As with any mattress purchase, people will want to consider their overall size and weight. A mattress that’s supportive enough for a lighter-weight sleeper might not support a heavier sleeper. Likewise, a larger person might think a mattress is perfect for back-sleeping, while a lighter person could possibly find it too firm. Consumers should definitely keep their size in mind when attempting to find that perfect balance between comfort and support.
RELATED: Best Mattress For Lower Back Pain And Sciatica
Best Mattress Types for Back Sleepers
![Mattresses For Back Sleepers man sleeping on his back with a cat beside him](https://www.mattressclarity.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/back_sleeper-1.jpg)
There are a few major types of mattresses, and they all offer benefits and drawbacks when it comes to back-sleeping. Let’s discuss exactly how each one can be a good and poor fit.
Memory Foam
Memory foam mattresses are good for back sleepers in that they provide excellent contouring and really fill all the gaps (such as the lumbar area) that naturally occur when you rest on your back. They can also be extremely soft, however, and sometimes don’t offer the best support for back-sleeping. If a shopper wants a memory foam mattress for back-sleeping, they should find something where the comfort layer isn’t too thick. They’ll want a bed that will allow their hips to sink in just the right amount while the mattress supports the rest of their body.
Innerspring
A mattress with high-grade coils can indeed be a good match for back-sleeping, but it really comes down to the overall firmness and what’s in the comfort layer. If an innerspring mattress is too firm, it can push the hips out of the mattress and cause back pain. That’s why innerspring mattresses with a pillow-top are often a good fit for back-sleeping. The pillow-top adds some softness and allows those hips to sink in just a bit. If shoppers want an innerspring mattress for back-sleeping, they just need to make sure it is truly medium-firm.
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses provide the soft comfort of foam and the support of coils, both of which help back sleepers rest comfortably. However, there are still a few things to look out for. First off, make sure the comfort layer is the right thickness. If it’s a thick layer of memory foam, your spine might get out of alignment while you’re sleeping. If it’s just a thin layer of a firmer foam, the mattress might push the hips out of the mattress.
Latex
Latex mattresses are known for being eco-friendly, but how do they work for back-sleeping? First off, latex is a denser material that can sometimes be on the firmer side. If it’s too dense, it might not let sleepers’ hips sink in the right amount. So, back sleepers want to make sure there’s some give in place. Latex mattresses can also be good for back-sleeping because they’re highly durable. While they do cost more, they’re a better long-term investment and are less likely to sag.
Sleep Accessories for Back-Sleeping
For back sleepers, getting a good night’s rest doesn’t stop with finding a mattress. There are also some accessories that can help ensure comfort and support.
First off, a pillow can really help with back-sleeping if it’s a proper fit. Back sleepers should look for something that isn’t too thick and isn’t too thin. A pillow with a medium loft will keep the head, neck, and spine neutrally aligned. These can come in many types, including latex and memory foam. There are also some pillows made specifically to support the neck. Make sure to take a look at our best pillows for back sleepers for more information.
Mattress toppers can also be a great accessory for back sleepers, especially if their current mattress is too firm. A 2″ or 3″ mattress topper can add just a bit of comfort to the top of the mattress, providing some more contouring and allowing the hips to sink in. There are also zoned mattress toppers that can provide some more lumbar support for back sleepers.
Overall
Here’s a recap of our top picks for the best mattresses for back sleepers:
Mattress | Best For |
DreamCloud Premier | Best Overall |
Helix Midnight | Best Mattress for Couples |
Emma Hybrid Comfort | Best Firm Mattress |
Saatva | Best Innerspring Mattress |
WinkBeds EcoCloud | Best Mattress for Heavy Back Sleepers |
Nolah Evolution | Best Mattress for Back Pain |
Bear | Best Cooling Mattress for Back Sleepers |
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora | Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Sleepers |
Plank Firm Luxe | Best Mattress That Won’t Sag |
Birch Natural | Best Eco-Friendly Mattress for Back Sleepers |
Best Mattress for Back Sleepers FAQs
What mattress firmness is best for back sleepers?
Medium-firm mattresses are great for back sleepers since it supports proper spinal alignment while cushioning the shoulders and hips.
Are foam mattresses good for back sleepers?
Memory foam is great for back sleepers since it cradles the body in some of the heavier places while also cushioning the spine.
Which thickness is best for back sleepers?
We recommend sleepers have mattresses at least 10″ thick, regardless of your sleep position.
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