Sleeping with your romantic partner helps create a sense of closeness and intimacy. The perks include cuddling as you fall asleep, which may benefit your health.
However, sharing a bed isn’t always easy. There’s less room to stretch out, and one partner may disturb the other by changing positions or getting into or out of bed. Disagreements over mattress firmness are also common.
That’s why couples should choose their mattress wisely. The best mattress for couples can meet both partners’ comfort preferences while providing plenty of space to sleep undisturbed.
We’ve included our top picks for mattresses that offer versatile comfort and a strong overall performance for couples. We also discuss how we evaluate mattresses for couples and share tips on how to find the best bed for you and your partner.
Find Your Perfect Mattress
We know mattresses work differently for different types of sleepers. Use the filters below to help narrow down your options for your best bed.
Read on to see why the following five options made our top picks list of 2024’s best mattresses for couples.
Sleep Doctor’s Picks
Best Overall Mattress
Emma Hybrid Comfort
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
The Emma Hybrid Comfort combines foam layers with a zoned coil system to produce an even balance of contouring and support. This design appealed to a wide range of testers on our team, making it a great fit for co-sleepers with different sleep preferences.
Buy From Emma
Side Sleepers
Medium Firm (6)
Plush, Supportive Surface
Great Value
Pros
- Open-cell foams encourage airflow
- Zoned support system provides extra pushback around the chest and hips
- 365-night trial for all orders
Cons
- Side sleepers under 130 pounds may find the mattress too firm
- Foam layers likely to produce off-gassing odor after the mattress is unboxed
The Emma Hybrid Comfort has a mid-range feel that should feel comfortable for many sleeper types, including partners with different needs. A great balance of motion isolation and responsiveness for sex also caters the mattress to couples.
Why We Like It
The Hybrid Comfort has a medium firm (6) feel that suited many of our testers. Our side and back sleepers appreciated the mattress’ balanced cushioning and support. Side sleepers of at least 130 pounds and back and stomach sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds felt most comfortable. Our testers with sore spots found the mattress’ foam comfort system very effective at relieving pressure.
How Does It Feel?
Open-cell polyfoam begins the comfort system, giving the surface a bit of cushioning. Foams tend to trap heat, but the open-cell construction allows for more air circulation. Next is a thicker layer of memory foam that contours to the body to relieve pressure, followed by a transitional polyfoam layer. These layers create a buffer between your body and the support core.
Pocketed coils and high-resiliency polyfoam reinforce the sleep surface, working together to prevent excessive sinkage and keep your body on an even plane. The coils are divided into seven zones, resulting in extra reinforcement for heavier areas of the body and gentler cradling elsewhere.
Best Value Mattress
Silk & Snow Mattress
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
Silk & Snow’s flagship all-foam model is a great compromise if you’re looking for a high-quality mattress that won’t drain your wallet. Couples should enjoy the superior motion isolation and noise-free design.
Buy From Silk & Snow
Pain Relief
Medium (5)
Close-Conforming Foam
Great Value
Pros
- Plush, adaptive surface is ideal for people with frequent or chronic pain
- Foam layers absorb movement and significantly reduce motion transfer
- Below-average pricing and free pillows with each order
Cons
- High potential for strong initial off-gassing odor
- Not supportive enough for many back and stomach sleepers
The Silk & Snow Mattress carries a low price-point compared to the average all-foam model, but still performs at the same level as many of its more expensive competitors. The simple three-layer design offers a plush medium (5) feel and cloud-like cradling for your entire body. Great motion isolation and no noise make this mattress a solid pick for anyone who loses sleep due to their partner’s nighttime movements.
Why We Like It
As a softer all-foam model, the Silk & Snow Mattress should appeal to side sleepers. Our hands-on tests show it’s particularly well suited to people who use this position and weigh up to 230 pounds. Back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds should also receive the support they need, but heavier individuals will likely sink too much to sleep comfortably.
Motion isolation proved to be a major strength of this mattress during our performance tests. We noticed little to no motion transfer when lying side by side, even when the other person changed positions or mimicked movements associated with getting in and out of bed. Our tests also show the mattress resists heat retention and sleeps cooler than the average all-foam model.
How Does It Feel?
The Silk & Snow Mattress contains a memory foam comfort layer, polyfoam transitional layer, and high-density foam base. Memory foam softens when exposed to body heat, so you’ll notice some close contouring as your body settles into the mattress, but the two underlying layers are designed to push back against your weight and keep you on an even plane.
You may notice some heat buildup when lying on the mattress, but the top layer is infused with cooling gel to help offset this process. A stretch-knit poly-spandex cover encases the mattress. The fabric is treated with an antimicrobial agent meant to inhibit bacterial growth and keep your sleep surface hygienic.
Most Comfortable Mattress
WinkBed
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
The WinkBed is a solid choice for couples due in large part to the extensive firmness selection. You can choose from four firmness levels, and WinkBeds allows you to exchange your initial selection for a softer or firmer model if you aren’t satisfied the first time around.
Buy From WinkBeds
Combination Sleepers
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Plush, Supportive Surface
Good Value
Pros
- Luxurious hybrid design pairs adaptive comfort layers with zoned coils
- Available in four firmness levels to accommodate different body types and sleep positions
- Cover composed of moisture-wicking Tencel fabric
Cons
- Limited firmness options for people who prefer exceptionally soft mattresses
- Customers pay more for the “Plus” design
While there’s no such thing as a mattress that’s universally comfortable, the WinkBed comes closer than many of its competitors. You can choose from medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (7) options for the standard foam hybrid model, as well as a “Plus” (8) option specifically geared toward people who weigh more than 230 pounds — this model contains zoned latex for extra support. Zoned coils and a breathable cover add to the appealing design.
Why We Like It
The WinkBed’s versatility — coupled with the brand’s generous return and exchange policy — means most people will end up with a mattress that feels comfortable and sufficiently supportive, even if they need to test out a second model. Overall, the mattress also performed well across our various hands-on tests. Softer models earned higher ratings than their firmer counterparts in some areas, and vice versa, but we found all four designs well-made and fairly balanced.
Temperature control is a standout quality of the WinkBed. We’ve attributed this to the breathable cover, comfort layers that don’t retain too much heat, and steady airflow throughout the coil system. Extra perimeter reinforcement also earned the mattress high marks for edge support.
How Does It Feel?
Each version of the WinkBed feels distinct in terms of contouring. If you prefer a close hug from your mattress, the medium soft model should meet your needs. The medium firm design conforms more moderately and may be a better fit for people who weigh 130 pounds or more. Both the firm and “Plus” contour very little, even for sleepers over 230 pounds, and the latter’s latex comfort layer gives the surface a noticeable bounce.
All WinkBeds feature zoned pocketed coils that push back against your midsection and feel gentler beneath your head and legs. This targeted reinforcement is more noticeable on firmer models, but none of the mattresses should sink excessively if you weigh 230 pounds or less.
Best Luxury Mattress
Helix Dusk Luxe
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
The Helix Dusk Luxe pairs a luxuriously thick comfort system with a sturdy coil base to give you a perfectly balanced bed. It’s a great choice for side and back sleepers looking for strong cushioning.
Buy From Helix
Combination Sleepers
Medium Firm (6)
Plush, Supportive Surface
Fair Value
Pros
- Thick foam layers excel at cradling the body
- Cooling cover and airflow through coils help minimize heat retention
- Coils are zoned to boost pressure relief and support where they’re most needed
Cons
- High profile may necessitate deep pocket sheets
- Some off-gassing might occur for a few days after unboxing
The Helix Dusk Luxe offers some noteworthy features that set it apart from your typical hybrid model. The thick six-layer construction gives the bed a luxurious feel that cushions your body but doesn’t skimp on support.
Why We Like It
We’ve tested plenty of hybrid models, but the Dusk Luxe stands out with a thicker foam comfort system that really cradles your body but also feels sturdy. This balance of contouring and support is most beneficial for side and back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, especially those who are prone to painful pressure buildup in the shoulders, hips, or spine. We were also impressed by the choice of Tencel or GlacioTex for your cover material, since most beds don’t offer this option.
How Does It Feel?
The Helix Dusk Luxe has a medium firm (6) feel, which is a nice sweet spot for hybrid mattresses. The quilted surface is plush, but the coil system beneath ensures that you’ll never sink deeply into the bed as you might in an all-foam model. The coils also have a zoned design that enhances pressure relief and support in different areas of the body. Whether you choose Tencel or GlacioTex for your cover, both are meant to keep the surface cool, so you shouldn’t experience excessive heat buildup.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Layla Hybrid
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
The flippable Layla Hybrid lets you choose between deep contouring or firm support. Each side contains adaptive memory foam to distribute weight and reduce pressure along the spine, so the best side for any given person depends on their body type and preferred sleep position.
Buy From Layla
Side Sleepers
Soft (4), Firm (7)
Close-Conforming Foam
Good Value
Pros
- Reversible design features a different firmness level on each side
- Perimeter coils are reinforced to limit sinkage along the edges
- Cover can be removed and machine-washed
Cons
- Mattress is heavy and difficult to flip
- People seeking a mid-range firmness may not find either side comfortable
Some side sleepers prefer adaptive sleep surfaces and others need extra support. The Layla Hybrid offers both options. A flippable mattress, the hybrid features a medium soft (4) feel on one surface and a firm (7) feel on the other. Our tests show each side is well suited to different types of sleepers based on how much they weigh and which position they primarily use.
Why We Like It
Our tests show the Layla Hybrid’s medium soft side is best suited to side sleepers up to 230 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. People who meet these criteria often need close contouring to sleep comfortably, and the hybrid’s softer surface certainly checks that box. Back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds awarded more favorable ratings to the firmer surface, as did side sleepers over 230 pounds.
The mattress excelled during our temperature control tests. A breathable cover, foam layers engineered to resist heat retention, and steady air circulation through the coil system all contribute to the hybrid’s cooling abilities. We found the softer surface performs better in areas like motion isolation and pressure relief, while the firmer side provides sturdy edge support and won’t sink too much when you move across the surface.
The Layla Hybrid is fairly heavy, especially in larger sizes, so be sure to lift and flip with a partner to avoid injury.
How Does It Feel?
The Layla Hybrid’s medium soft side contains 2.5 inches of memory foam over 2 inches of transitional polyfoam. These layers closely cradle your body, but the polyfoam is zoned to prevent your torso and hips from sinking too deeply. The firm side features the same materials, but the layers are thinner to make this surface conform less and feel more supportive.
Pocketed coils make up the shared support core sandwiched between the comfort systems. The perimeter coils are reinforced to push back against compression when you sit or sleep near the edges, though you’ll likely sink more on the medium soft side. A removable zip-and-wash cover made of breathable poly-rayon fabric encases the mattress.
Why You Should Trust Us
We want all of our readers to enjoy the best possible sleep. That’s why we employ a team of sleep product specialists with decades of combined experience in the sleep industry.
Our testers have different body types and position preferences so that we can gather a broader range of feedback. When evaluating the best mattresses for couples, we paid special attention to the performance characteristics that typically matter most to those sharing a bed, including motion isolation, edge support, and noise rating.
More Mattress Options for Unique Groups
What to Know When Buying a Mattress as a Couple
Searching for a mattress to share requires extra consideration. We’ll explain how to choose a bed that meets the needs of two sleepers.
If you regularly sleep with a partner, both of your needs should be taken into account when choosing a new mattress. Important qualities for a couple’s mattress include motion isolation to minimize sleep disruptions, strong edge support, consistent temperature control, and good responsiveness for sex. Queen, king, and California king are considered the best mattress sizes for couples.
Your Needs
Before shopping, we recommend assessing what you need from a mattress. Comfort isn’t universal. Consider your body weight, height, preferred sleep position, and other personal comfort preferences. These factors can help determine what firmness and type of bed are best for you.
Your Partner’s Needs
Your partner should also determine what they need from a mattress. If your partner has different comfort preferences, you may need to compromise on a bed that works for both of you.
What Size Mattress is Right for Couples?
Couples need a mattress size that fits in their bedroom while providing enough sleeping space for both partners. For two average-sized adults, a queen mattress is a practical option that balances price and size.
If you have more space in your bedroom and your budget, a king or California king mattress provides extra room to stretch out. A larger size may also better accommodate children or pets. While a full size mattress is an inexpensive option, it is usually not spacious enough for regular use by two adult co-sleepers.
Sleep Trials, Warranties, and Return Policies
Customer service policies add value to your purchase and provide options if the mattress doesn’t meet your expectations. Most reputable mattress brands include a sleep trial and warranty.
Sleep trials allow you to use the bed for a set length of time and return it if you’re not satisfied. Most mattress companies either send a team to remove your unwanted mattress or ask that you donate it locally. In some cases, shipping or service charges may apply.
Warranties protect your mattress should a qualifying defect arise. Companies set the terms and conditions, including eligible defects, the length of the warranty period, associated costs to owners, whether the mattress is eligible for repair or replacement, and actions that void the policy.
What Mattress Type is Best for Couples?
The style of mattress has significant performance implications, making some better suited to couples than others. If one partner wakes up easily or has a different sleep routine, you may prefer a quiet bed with above-average motion isolation to reduce disturbances.
Couples often prefer models with supportive edges so that they have a larger usable area. Otherwise, partners may inch closer to the center of the bed, which can make the surface feel more cramped.
Since a mattress generally does double duty as a surface for sleep and sex, it’s important to assess its suitability for both purposes. The best mattresses for sex are usually quiet and responsive, with just enough contouring to provide comfort without hindering motion.
Foam Mattresses
All-foam mattresses consist of one or more foam layers. We recommend foam models to couples primarily due to their exceptional motion isolation and whisper-quiet construction. These traits can help reduce sleep disruptions when one partner moves during the night. Foam mattresses also tend to offer superior contouring, which can help prevent pressure points for side sleepers. As an added bonus for couples on a budget, many foam models are more affordable than competing designs.
That said, some foam mattresses trap body heat. This is more common in models that use thick layers of traditional memory foam without temperature-regulating components. Many sleepers over 230 pounds also find all-foam beds lack support, especially around the edges.
Innerspring Mattresses
Traditional innerspring mattresses consist of a metal coil core wrapped in a fabric cover. This style of bed lacks the substantial comfort system of a hybrid mattress, leading to more noise and motion transfer than most couples prefer. Because innersprings do not provide much contouring, side sleepers may experience pressure points. However, couples looking for a breathable, bouncy, budget-friendly sleep surface might want to consider an innerspring model.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses aim to combine the best features of foam and innerspring models. They typically contain a thick comfort system with one or more layers of foam or latex and a support core of pocketed coils.
This complex construction tends to come with a higher price tag, but it may be worth it for couples seeking a balanced performance. The coil core lends to a bouncy feel that enhances ease of movement during sex. At the same time, the comfort system muffles vibrations and sound to promote a restful night’s sleep.
Hybrids also frequently provide greater support, which may be particularly important for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and individuals over 230 pounds.
Airbed Mattresses
Although airbeds are not as common as the other major mattress categories, they’re often ideal for couples due to their customizability.
Most airbeds have a foam or latex comfort system with a support core of adjustable air-filled chambers. The firmness level can be modified by filling or emptying the air chambers using a remote or smartphone app. Most airbeds that are queen size or larger contain separate chambers on each side so that each sleeper can customize their comfort level.
Latex Mattresses
Latex beds use latex in their comfort and support systems. Most contain natural latex made from the sap of rubber trees, but some manufacturers use synthetic or blended latex.
Since latex models generally combine responsiveness, breathability, durability, and subtle contouring, we often suggest them for couples. Many natural latex mattresses also use exclusively natural materials to appeal to eco-conscious shoppers.
What Mattress Firmness is Best for Couples?
No single firmness level is ideal for everyone, which can make it especially difficult for couples to find the right balance. Comfort is subjective, but we standardize our assessments by describing firmness using a scale from 1 through 10, in which 1 is extra soft and 10 is extra firm.
We’ve found that the majority of sleepers prefer a mattress between medium soft (4) and firm (7). Side sleepers and individuals under 130 pounds usually favor a model on the softer end of this range, while stomach sleepers and those over 230 pounds typically like a firmer option. Depending on your body types and position preferences, you and your partner may be able to agree on a feel. Otherwise, a medium (5) or medium firm (6) mattress is often a good compromise.
Dual Firmness Mattresses
If you and your partner cannot reconcile your differing comfort preferences, we suggest that you consider a dual firmness mattress, which allows each sleeper to independently select the comfort level of their half of the bed.
Adjustable airbeds frequently feature dual firmness options, meaning that each partner can change how their side feels to fit their needs, preferences, or moods. Many mattress brands offer split queen or split king designs that allow you to choose a different firmness for each side.
Compromise With a Mattress Topper
A mattress topper is placed between the mattress cover and fitted sheet to provide an extra comfort layer. Toppers can serve as a budget-friendly way to satisfy sleepers with different firmness preferences. You can purchase a firmer mattress to accommodate one partner and use a topper on one side of the bed to soften the other partner’s side.
About The Author
Staff Writer, Product Testing Team
Alison is a health writer with ample experience reading and interpreting academic, peer-reviewed research. Based in San Diego, she is published in the journal PLOS Genetics and the Journal of Biological Chemistry and has been a copywriter for SmartBug media. With a master’s degree in biochemistry from the University of California, Davis, she has nearly a decade of academic research experience in life sciences. She enjoys helping people cut through the noise to understand the bigger picture about sleep and health. Alison likes to stay active with rock climbing, hiking, and walking her dog.
- POSITION: Stomach sleeper
- TEMPERATURE: Neutral Sleeper
- CHRONOTYPE: Bear
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