Mattress for Side Sleepers
Soft Memory Foam Mattresses for Side Sleepers
7 picks compared
6 min read
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The short answerThe best soft memory foam mattresses for side sleepers are the Nectar Premier Copper, Tempur-Pedic ProBreeze, and Layla Memory Foam. Each offers plush comfort with targeted pressure relief. We compared firmness, cooling, and motion isolation to find the top picks.
?How we pickedWe compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.
Nectar Premier Copper Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.8 / 5 Best overall soft memory foam mattress
The Nectar Premier Copper has a plush top layer that cradles the body. It includes cooling gel and copper fibers to regulate temperature. This mattress offers excellent pressure relief for side sleepers.
Firmness Soft (5 out of 10)Thickness 13 inchesCooling Gel-infused and copperTrial 365 nights
- Excellent pressure relief
- Cooling technology
- Long trial period
- May be too soft for heavier sleepers
- Premium price
Best for: Best overall soft memory foam mattress
Tempur-Pedic ProBreeze Medium Hybrid Mattress
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best for hot sleepers
The Tempur-Pedic ProBreeze uses a cooling cover and phase-change material to draw heat away. Its medium soft feel adapts to the body's curves. Side sleepers report reduced tossing and turning.
Firmness Medium (5 out of 10)Thickness 11.5 inchesCooling Phase-change materialTrial 90 nights
- Superior cooling
- Adaptive support
- High durability
- Very expensive
- Heavy to move
Best for: Best for hot sleepers
Layla Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best value soft memory foam
The Layla is flippable with a soft side and a firm side. The soft side provides deep pressure relief for side sleepers. It uses copper-infused foam to keep the surface cool.
Firmness Soft (4 out of 10) on one sideThickness 10 inchesCooling Copper-infused foamTrial 120 nights
- Two firmness options
- Affordable price
- Good motion isolation
- Soft side may lack support for some
- No built-in handle
Best for: Best value soft memory foam
Zinus Green Tea Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best budget pick
The Zinus Green Tea mattress offers a plush feel at a budget price. It is infused with green tea extract and cooling gel to reduce odor and heat. Side sleepers on a tight budget find it comfortable.
Firmness Medium soft (5 out of 10)Thickness 12 inchesCooling Gel-infusedTrial 100 nights
- Very affordable
- Good pressure relief
- Easy setup
- May sleep warm
- Less durable over time
Best for: Best budget pick
Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best for pressure point relief
The Casper Nova Hybrid has zoned support that targets the shoulders and hips. Its plush top layer relieves pressure without sacrificing support. Side sleepers with joint pain often prefer this model.
Firmness Soft (4 out of 10)Thickness 12 inchesCooling Breathable coverTrial 100 nights
- Zoned pressure relief
- Responsive hybrid feel
- Good edge support
- Higher price
- May be too soft for stomach sleepers
Best for: Best for pressure point relief
Tuft & Needle Mint Mattress
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best for couples
The Tuft & Needle Mint has excellent motion isolation, making it ideal for couples. Its soft foam adapts to the body while maintaining a supportive base. Side sleepers appreciate the balanced comfort.
Firmness Medium (5 out of 10)Thickness 12 inchesCooling Gel-infused and graphiteTrial 100 nights
- Great motion isolation
- Cooling properties
- Certified foam
- Not as plush as others
- No flippable option
Best for: Best for couples
Saatva Loom & Leaf Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best luxury option
The Saatva Loom & Leaf is a premium memory foam mattress with a plush feel. It uses multiple foam layers for contouring and support. Side sleepers who want a luxury experience often choose this.
Firmness Plush soft (3 out of 10)Thickness 12 inchesCooling Gel-infused foamTrial 180 nights
- Luxurious feel
- Excellent craftsmanship
- White glove delivery
- Very expensive
- Heavy and hard to move
Best for: Best luxury option
Softness varies by brand and model. Some mattresses feel plush but lack support. We focused on models with a clear soft profile and strong pressure relief.
What to Look for in a Soft Memory Foam Mattress
Softness is measured on a firmness scale from 1 to 10. Side sleepers usually prefer a 3 to 5. Look for a mattress with a plush top layer that cushions the shoulders and hips. Check the thickness and density of the foam layers. A thicker mattress often provides better pressure relief. Also consider cooling features if you sleep hot.
How Soft Is Too Soft?
A mattress that is too soft can cause misalignment. Your spine should stay neutral when lying on your side. If your hips sink too deep, you may wake with back pain. Look for a mattress that balances plushness with support. Some models offer zoned support to prevent excessive sinking. Test the mattress if possible, or rely on a generous trial period.
Cooling Features for Hot Sleepers
Memory foam tends to trap heat. Many soft models include cooling gel, copper, or phase-change materials. These help draw heat away from your body. Breathable covers and airflow channels also improve temperature regulation. If you sleep hot, prioritize these features. The Tempur-Pedic ProBreeze is a top choice for cooling.
Durability and Longevity
Softer foams may compress more quickly. Look for high-density foam that resists sagging. Check the warranty and expected lifespan. Most quality mattresses last 7 to 10 years. Read owner reviews for long-term feedback. A mattress that feels soft but lacks durability may not be a good investment.
Questions people ask
What is the best memory foam mattress for side sleepers who prefer a soft feel?
The Nectar Premier Copper is often recommended for its plush comfort and pressure relief. The Tempur-Pedic ProBreeze is another top choice for hot sleepers. Both offer a soft feel with good support.
How soft should a memory foam mattress be for a side sleeper?
Most side sleepers prefer a firmness level between 3 and 5 on a 10-point scale. A soft mattress cushions the shoulders and hips. Avoid anything below 3, as it may lack support.
Is a soft memory foam mattress good for back pain?
It depends on the cause. Soft mattresses can relieve pressure points, which helps some back pain. However, if your spine misaligns, you may need a medium firmness. Consult a doctor for specific advice.
Can a soft memory foam mattress cause hip pain?
A mattress that is too soft can cause your hips to sink too deep. This may strain the hip joint. Look for a mattress with zoned support to prevent excessive sinking.
What is the difference between soft and plush?
Soft and plush are often used interchangeably. Plush typically means a soft, cushioned surface. Some brands use 'plush' to describe a specific firmness level. Always check the firmness rating.
How long does a memory foam mattress last?
Most memory foam mattresses last 7 to 10 years with proper care. Soft models may compress faster. Rotate your mattress regularly and use a foundation to extend its life.
Do soft memory foam mattresses sleep hot?
Memory foam can retain heat, but many modern models include cooling gel or breathable covers. Look for features like gel infusion or phase-change materials. The Tempur-Pedic ProBreeze is designed to sleep cool.
What is the best soft memory foam mattress for couples?
The Tuft & Needle Mint is a great choice for couples due to its motion isolation. It also has a medium soft feel that suits most sleepers. Consider a hybrid if you need more edge support.
The bottom lineSo which one?
For most side sleepers who want a soft feel, the Nectar Premier Copper offers the best balance of comfort and support. Hot sleepers should consider the Tempur-Pedic ProBreeze. Budget-conscious buyers will find the Zinus Green Tea a solid option.
