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If you’re looking for the best mattress for sex, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Sleepopolis, we’ve tested over 375 mattresses in our studio for various performance factors that pertain to healthy sleep, such as pressure relief, support, and motion isolation. While I’ll still mention sleep in this roundup, I’ll also be more specifically honing in on how these beds work for sex.
When we analyze a mattress’s compatibility for sex, we look for high scores in three key categories: responsiveness, cooling, and edge support. We then find the average of these three scores to create our overall sex score for a mattress. To make our list of top picks, all of these beds flexed their bonafides with a sex score of at least 4 stars. The only exception is the best memory foam mattress, which I’ll elaborate on more below.
Over the years, Sleepopolis has helped more than 132,000 people (and counting) find their perfect mattress. To do this, our team of expert testers and certified sleep science coaches test each bed in our studio based on our medically approved testing methodology. The methodology was created with help from a network of sleep doctors, physical therapists, registered nurses, and other sleep specialists to ensure our recommendations are accurate. We worked especially closely with our board-certified Chief Medical Advisor, Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, as well as advisors Dr. Joe Tedesco and Dr. Shelby Harris throughout the testing process. Dr. Tedesco even came into our mattress studio to personally lie on some of the beds himself.
Best Mattresses for Sex
- Saatva Classic – Best Mattress for Sex Overall
- Nectar Mattress – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Sex
- Helix Dusk Luxe Mattress – Best Luxury Mattress for Sex
- WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers and Sex
- Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress – Best Mattress for Pressure Relief and Sex
- Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – Best Cooling Mattress for Sex
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers and Sex
- Silk & Snow Hybrid Mattress – Best Hybrid Mattress for Sex
- Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers and Sex
- Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress – Best Flippable Mattress for Sex
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- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – 25% Off Sitewide with Code FALL25
- Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress – 25% Off Sitewide with Code FALL25
What I Looked For in the Best Mattress for Sex
Since we can’t perform hands-on testing in this category due to some unambiguous HR policies, when evaluating a mattress for sex, there are three performance categories we pay close attention to when assigning a ranking. When your mattress performs well in these categories, it may enhance your sexual experience. The beds on this list all earned high scores in the following areas:
- Responsiveness: A mattress with plenty of bounce increases the sleeper’s mobility and helps them move around more easily. This is important for sex because it helps couples switch positions without getting trapped in the bed’s layers.
- Cooling: Sex can get pretty steamy, so we look for mattresses with materials and constructions that promote airflow and help regulate temperature. We also use a thermal gun to collect objective cooling data.
- Edge Support: Strong edges allow you to use the entire mattress surface without falling off, which helps make the bed feel larger. Edges are also relied on during some sexual positions, so it’s important that they don’t collapse when weight is applied.
Need help finding the right mattress?
Compare the Best Mattresses for Sex
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| Saatva Classic | Nectar Mattress | Helix Dusk Luxe Mattress | WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Silk & Snow Hybrid Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Firm: 7.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options |
| Material | Innerspring | Foam | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | |||||
| Best For |
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Couples |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers |
Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hip Pain |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Couples |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors |
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors |
Best Mattress for Sex Video Review
We’ve recently updated our list of the best mattresses for sex, so this video may not reflect our current choices. Stay tuned for an updated video that reflects our most recent testing results.
Saatva – Best Mattress for Sex Overall
The Saatva’s coil-on-coil construction provides a classic innerspring feel. It’s a good option for combo sleepers, who will want to feel free to switch positions and avoid feeling “stuck” in the mattress. It comes in three firmness levels, so you should be able to find one that suits your needs. The white glove delivery Saatva provides is an added perk and will save you the headache of getting rid of your old mattress (they take it away for free!). For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“I think the Saatva is a great option for back sleepers, as the Luxury Firm model provides enough cushioning for their lumbar region, but also lots of support to keep their spine in a neutral alignment.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Bounce is perhaps the most paramount aspect in a great mattress for sex, and that’s why we chose a mattress with two coil layers to represent best-in-class: The Saatva Classic. This double-innerspring design gives the Saatva a ton of bounce, helping it earn 4 stars for responsiveness and 4.5 out of 5 stars for sex. We also found supreme 5-star edge support and 4-star cooling. Having sturdy edges allows sexually active couples to use the whole surface of the bed without fear of the perimeter collapsing. At the same time, the enhanced airflow will help regulate your temperature even when your pulse is racing. It also comes in three different firmnesses and two height options for co-sleepers to compromise on their favorite feel.
One layer of coils helps add bounce to a mattress, but two coil layers make for a match in responsiveness heaven. Although it contains a plush, tufted pillow top, our tester Kenny Timper’s mobility wasn’t affected. “The Saatva is highly responsive, so I had no trouble switching from my back to my side to my stomach,” he said. “It was also very easy to hop in and out of bed and roll from one side to the other.” According to Kenny, this bed is the gold standard for responsiveness, making for easy maneuvering during your sexual encounters.
Dr. Tedesco also rated the bed high for support and pressure relief, with his personal pressure relief scores for each position all 4s and above. He called the bed “comfortable to lay on,” adding, “I don’t typically like innersprings, but this is great. I feel a lot of support.”
When it comes to cooling, the coil-on-coil construction shines once again. When Kenny measured the bed’s temperature with a thermal gun before and after lying on it for 5 minutes, he found a 7.4-degree temperature increase. The coils add a lot of space for hot air to flow, making this bed breathable. While the bed wasn’t necessarily cool to the touch, Kenny didn’t feel it noticeably warming up as he lay there, meaning that couples can stay cool even when their bedroom activities cause them to break a sweat
The Saatva Classic has some of the strongest edge support we’ve ever seen in a mattress, which is helpful for couples looking to venture away from just the center of the bed during sex. When our tester Erin Chiles placed 198 pounds of weights directly on the edge, she only measured 3 inches of sinkage, which is fantastic. Kenny tested the edges in both the sitting and lying positions and said, “The coils make this bed feel really sturdy and stable. The edges didn’t really budge when I sat on them and pressed down and stood up.”
Strong edges are often a sign of increased longevity in a mattress, showing a reduced tendency to sag around the corners of the bed. One of my fellow staff writers, Livvi DiCicco, has had a Saatva mattress for over half a year now, and said the edge support is still “top-notch.” She added, “I sleep with one leg off the bed sometimes and wake up without having fallen off.”
Since the dual-coil layer makes the Saatva extremely bouncy, it’s not the best at isolating motion to just one side of the bed. While this bed is great for sex, you might feel your partner tossing and turning next to you when it’s time to go to sleep, so we only awarded it 2.6 stars for motion isolation. The coils also give it an “on” the bed feel. This may not be the best option if you’re seeking a doughy, hug-like sensation.
For an in-depth look at the Saatva, read our full Saatva Classic mattress review. For better motion isolation, try the Nolah Evolution or check out our best mattress roundup.
Nectar – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Sex
The Nectar delivers a balance of comfort and support: it’s definitely contouring, but still provides a firm enough foundation for most light to average weight sleepers, especially if they sleep on their back or stomach. Plus, a lengthy trial period, lifetime warranty, and affordable price make the Nectar a reassuring choice for many. Watch our video review to learn more.
What our tester says:
“I think back sleepers would be especially happy on this bed. They’ll get plenty of support from the firm memory foam in the Nectar Classic, which should translate to great pressure relief and a good night’s sleep. Hot sleepers who have to have a memory foam mattress should also have no trouble at all falling asleep on this bed.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
The Nectar is an all-foam, medium-firm mattress with an overall score of 4 out of 5 stars for sex based on its responsiveness, cooling, and edge support performance. We chose this bed as the best memory foam mattress for sex because it’s easy to move around on while still providing some comforting body contouring when it’s time to get some shut-eye. This construction and feel are compatible with most body types and sleeping positions, so it’s a solid choice for couples in general. When we break down the sex score, the Nectar earned 4 stars in responsiveness, 4.5 stars in cooling, and 3.5 stars in edge support.
All-foam beds don’t typically have the same buoyancy as hybrid and innerspring beds, yet the Nectar still wowed us with its mobility. Our tester, Kenny Timper, performed the switch test, which involves rolling around on the mattress and switching positions. He thought it was surprisingly easy to move around on for a memory foam bed. “When you use your hands to press down into the mattress, they don’t sink too far into the layers, which makes it easy to flip over from your back to your side to your stomach,” he said. Based on his findings, you and a partner should have no trouble switching positions.
Although memory foam has a reputation for trapping heat, we found excellent cooling on the Nectar. Kenny used a thermal gun to record the mattress’s initial temperature and then again after lying on it for five minutes. His second temperature reading showed it had heated up by just 5.4 degrees. The average temperature increase during this test is typically 7.14 degrees, which is a super result. The Nectar shouldn’t retain too much body heat during sexual activities.
When we tested its edge support, we thought it was just average. Kenny felt stable when lying directly on the edge of the mattress. The Nectar’s support layer is made from 8 inches of high-density foam, which prevents too much sinkage in this position. However, he felt a lot more sinkage when sitting directly on the edge. Kenny said, “While I don’t think it’s an issue for most sleepers, I wouldn’t recommend bearing down onto the edges to stand up.”
We also invited our Chief Medical Product Tester Dr. Joe Tedesco, DPT, OCS, ATC, CSCS, to lie down on some of these beds and share his expert opinion. He found the Nectar to be a bit firmer than he expected, but nonetheless supportive with a smidge of pressure-relieving sinkage. He claimed that his spine felt aligned and neutral — overall “orthopedically sound.”
“This can be good for people who need structure in a bed,” he said. “So if you’re someone with loose ligaments and joint instabilities, you might feel some really good orthopedic alignment.”
However, considering the Nectar’s all-foam construction and medium-firm feel, we weren’t surprised that the bed wasn’t supportive enough for stomach sleepers weighing over 230 pounds. These sleepers may find more support from a firmer bed that prevents too much sinkage at the hips. The Titan Plus is a better bed for these sleepers.
For a closer look at the Nectar, read our full Nectar Classic memory foam mattress review, and you can also check out our best memory foam mattress round-up.
Helix Dusk Luxe – Best Luxury Mattress for Sex
The Helix Dusk Luxe mattress has a medium-firm feel that is perfect for back sleepers. Also, this mattress offers great contouring that doesn’t make you feel like you’re “stuck in” bed, which is great news for combination sleepers. Learn more in our video review of all the Helix Luxe mattresses.
What our tester says:
“Overall, I found the Helix Dusk to be quite cooling, with the Luxe model sleeping slightly cooler. The Tencel cover on the Luxe adds additional temperature regulation. The gel foam and latex foam also add cooling.” – Logan Block, former content director
Helix’s luxury line consists of six luxury upgrades to its six original hybrid mattresses, with the Helix Dusk Luxe positioned as a more upscale version of the standard Helix Dusk. This model contains more high-end features, including a plush pillow top, zoned support, and a Tencel cooling cover. We chose this mattress as the best luxury option because it contains all the upgraded features we like to see while still maintaining a fair price point. This bed has an overall score for sex of 4.6 stars based on its 5-star responsiveness, 5-star edge support, and 4-star cooling.
When our tester, Bridget Chapman, tested the Helix Dusk Luxe’s responsiveness, she thought it was very easy to move around on due to its layer of coils. This coil layer adds bounce that helps couples switch positions during sex. Further responsiveness comes from a layer of latex foam, which is bouncier than typical memory foam. When Bridget tested the responsiveness, she said, “You’ll likely get some nice sinkage from this mattress, but you shouldn’t feel ‘stuck’ in the bed.”
A bed that helps you stay cool even when you and your partner are heating up can make moments of intimacy more enjoyable. The layer of coils inside the Helix Dusk Luxe helps add space inside the bed for air to flow freely without getting trapped, thus creating a cool, breezy experience. We also found temperature regulation from the Tencel cover, which felt smooth and breathable, with no noticeable warming. If you are a particularly hot sleeper, you can also upgrade to a GlacioTex cover at checkout for additional cooling.
Our testers were also very impressed by the Helix Dusk Luxe’s edge support. The bed’s perimeter proved sturdy when they sat and lay directly on the edges with minimal sinkage. Because of this, you should be able to use the entire mattress during sex instead of just the center.
As a luxury mattress with a plush pillow top, this mattress leans a bit softer than medium-firm, so we don’t think it’s a top match for stomach sleepers who need firmer support at the hips to achieve proper spinal alignment. Similarly, it may not be supportive enough for sleepers over 230 pounds.
For more information, read our full Helix Dusk Luxe mattress review. Try the Helix Dawn Luxe or head to our best luxury mattress roundup for a stomach sleeping option.
WinkBeds GravityLux – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers and Sex
WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
When it comes to sleeping on your back, Dr. Raj Dasgupta recommends a medium-firm bed that provides a balance between support and pressure relief. The Winkbeds GravityLux meets this criteria, and is also one of the best mattresses for sex.
It’s offered in three different firmness levels, and I tested the Medium model. Not only does this bed provide enough support to promote proper spinal alignment in back sleepers, but it also has 5-star edge support that allows you to securely have sex on the entire surface of the bed. Since it’s an all-foam mattress, it’s not overly bouncy, but its firm feel makes it easy to switch positions during intimacy, earning 4 stars in responsiveness. We also found some nice cooling, giving it 4 stars in this category. Overall, the GravityLux earned 4.3 stars for sex.
When I tested this bed, I found it to be pretty firm, which helped prevent me from getting trapped in its layers and allowed me to easily move around. Its plush top added great cushioning at my lower back, but it did require a bit more effort to move around; however, it wasn’t difficult by any means. A layer of coils might have helped the transition be more seamless, but I still think couples can move around and switch positions without issue.
To test the bed’s reaction to body heat, I used a thermal gun to record the GravityLux’s temperature before and after lying on it for 5 minutes. The temperature went from 64.8 degrees to 72.1 degrees, a 7.3-degree increase. This is surprising for an all-foam mattress, since these types of beds tend to trap heat. However, the Tencel cover and gel-infused memory foam quilted into the cover help draw heat away from the body. While the bed wasn’t cool to the touch, I think it will prevent couples from overheating during sex.
When I tested GravityLux for edge support, I was blown away. The edges were able to stand strong under my weight, and I didn’t notice any sagging. The plush pillow top compresses, but the main support system is super-sturdy. I never felt like I was about to fall off. These edges are just as supportive as the rest of the bed, so you’ll be able to use the entire mattress during sex instead of just the center.
This mattress is very comfortable for back sleepers, but I didn’t find a ton of pressure relief when lying on my side. I would recommend choosing the Soft model at checkout if you get better sleep on your side. While it’s good for back sleepers over 230 pounds, stomach and side sleepers with bigger bodies are unlikely to find the support they need.
For more information on the GravityLux, read our full WinkBeds GravityLux mattress review. For a better side-sleeping option, try the Leesa Sapira Chill or head to our best mattress for back sleepers roundup.
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Mattress for Pressure Relief and Sex
The Bear Elite Hybrid uses foam and coils for a mix of support, cushioning, and cooling. While designed for athletes prioritizing wellness and recovery, sleepers of all activity levels can enjoy the many luxurious features. Enjoy zoned support for targeted relief, an “on top of” feel allowing for ease of movement, and cooling features throughout. For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“I’d recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid for most back and stomach sleepers.I think these sleepers will get the needed pressure relief and contouring around the lower back and hips. This mattress does a wonderful job at offering body contouring while still helping the sleeper stay elevated and lifted as well. The layers of foam should provide comfort while the coil system should offer lots of support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester
When we discussed pressure relief with Dr. Raj Dasgupta, he emphasized the importance of contouring materials that help evenly distribute weight to avoid pain. At Sleepopolis, we test every mattress for pressure relief using a specialized mat that senses pressure. Three testers in different weight categories lie on the mat in both the side and back sleeping positions. The mat then creates a graphic using thermal imaging showing where pressure forms along the body.
We found the Bear Elite Hybrid to relieve pressure in both sleeping positions across all body types. Not only is it a comfortable bed to sleep on, but it’s also great for sexually active people due to its bounce that helps switch positions, cooling that prevents sweatiness, and firm edges that will support you no matter where your sexual activities take you on the mattress. Our testing results were fairly consistent across the board, with edge support and cooling both earning 4.5 stars and responsiveness earning 4 stars. Overall, the Bear Elite Hybrid earned 4.3 stars for sex.
The Bear Elite Hybrid has a firmer feel, coming in at a 7 out of 10 on our firmness scale. This firm support provides an “on top” of the bed feel rather than an “inside the bed” feel, and our tester, Sosha Lewis, found it easy to move around on the surface. The upper layer of foam is softer than the rest of the bed, which could cause people with mobility issues to use more effort when switching sex positions, but otherwise, you shouldn’t struggle to move around.
When Sosha performed the thermal gun test, she recorded a 4.1-degree temperature increase after lying on the bed for 5 minutes. The average bed heats up by 7.14 degrees, so these results blew us away. “It felt cool to the touch when I first lay down, but not after I got up and felt the spot where my body was,” she said. “But, I didn’t notice it heating up while lying on it.” Even if the sex is hot, you won’t need to worry about actually feeling hot.
This mattress is pretty tall, measuring 14 inches from top to bottom. The mattress is even taller when placed on a base, which became an issue for 5’4” Sosha. If you’re on the shorter side, you may not be able to sit on the bed with your feet on the floor, which makes it harder to rely on the edges when standing up. However, Sosha thought the edges were very secure overall, especially when lying on her side — our testers sometimes topple over in this position if the edges are too weak. When it comes to sex, we think the edges can be relied on.
Although this mattress is a good choice for sex, it may not be the best choice for side sleeping once you’re done, especially if you’re prone to pain in your hips or shoulders. Since it’s on the firmer side, there’s not as much body contouring as we’d like to see in this position. Dr. Tedesco also noticed some pressure buildup in his pelvis while lying on his back, though this was alleviated when he bent his knees. He explained, “A heavier person may sink into this bed more around the hips, and that could potentially alleviate pressure better.” These sleeper types may want to stick to the Soft model of the Bear Elite Hybrid.
If you want to learn more about the Bear Elite Hybrid, head on over to our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review. For another sturdy Bear mattress, try the Bear Star Hybrid or check out our best mattress for back pain roundup.
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – Best Cooling Mattress for Sex
The Leesa Sapira Chill is a hybrid mattress, available in three firmness levels. We tested the Medium-Firm model and felt it was just softer than average, but could still work for all three sleeping positions — a rare find among mattresses. It also has some effective cooling technology built into it, which helps to keep sleepers cool throughout the night. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“I really think the medium-firm model is a great fit for all sleeping positions. Yep, the Leesa Sapira Chill is one of those unicorn mattresses that provides a great balance of comfort and support for a wide range of sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Cooling is one of the key factors we look for in the best mattress for sex. If you heat up after you climb in bed, a mattress designed for hot sleepers — such as the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid — might be your best choice. When I tested this bed’s cooling, I thought it knocked it out of the park, so I gave it 4.5 stars. Overall, this bed earns 4 stars for sex when we combine the cooling score with the 4-star edges and 3.5-star responsiveness.
To see if this mattress keeps things chilled during sex, I put the Sapira Chill’s cooling to the test. When I measured the bed’s temperature before and after lying on it for 5 minutes, it only heated up by 5 degrees. The cover has a cool-to-the-touch feel that stayed the whole time I was lying on it. I didn’t notice the bed heating up, and I think its name (“Chill”) is pretty accurate. I would for sure recommend this bed to hot sleepers. The cooling gel-infused foam quilted into the pillow top was noticeably cool to the touch.
The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid is one of the softer mattresses on this roundup, providing soothing sinkage and contouring. However, this may inhibit its mobility, lowering its responsiveness score compared to other beds on this list. During testing, I noticed the pillow top has deep tufts, which made me feel as if I was stuck in the mattress. However, I did find a decent amount of bounce, which helped me move from my back to my stomach.
Since this bed contains a lot of soft, pressure-relieving foam, I expected a decent amount of compression when I tested the edges. I felt a tad unstable when I first sat down, but the strong coils kicked in and kept me lifted and secure. I felt even more secure when lying on my back and stomach near the edge. The edges felt just as sturdy as the rest of the bed. I felt less stable on my side as gravity started to kick in due to the uneven weight distribution. I think this edge support is solid and can be used during sex, but it’s not the best I’ve ever seen.
This mattress is most compatible with side and back sleepers due to its plush foams, yet it’s not quite supportive enough for stomach sleeping. I would steer these sleepers towards a firmer mattress that provides more lift at the hips to lower back strain.
Read our full Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid mattress review for a deep dive into this bed. For an even bouncier option, try the Nolah Natural or check out our best cooling mattress roundup.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers and Sex
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress combines a foam comfort layer and sturdy coils. This combination of materials makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. It comes in three firmness levels, and we recommend the Medium model for most back sleepers. It’s a great choice for shoppers who are looking for a new mattress on a budget. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“Given that the Signature Hybrid has some excellent bounce, I’d highly recommend this mattress for combination sleepers who often change positions multiple times throughout the night. I also think the Signature Hybrid could be a great fit for couples. You shouldn’t be overly disturbed by a restless partner on this bed, and it has nice, firm edge support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Fun fact: what makes a mattress good for sex also makes it great for combination sleepers. Responsiveness helps couples switch sex positions, but it also helps combination sleepers move around while they sleep. When it comes to sexually active combo sleepers, we recommend the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress. This bed earned 4 stars for responsiveness because its coils added some slight bounce that helps couples move around without feeling stuck. We also gave the bed 4 stars for edge support and 4.5 stars for cooling, earning 4.1 stars overall for sex.
The Signature Hybrid contains a strong layer of coils underneath the soft layer of foam, so some comforting sinkage feels great for side sleeping while still propping the spine into neutral alignment when back sleeping. According to our tester Kenny Timper, moving from his stomach or back to the side-sleeping position was seamless, but switching from his back to his stomach was a bit more difficult. Couples shouldn’t have trouble moving around on this bed during sex, but they should be aware that they will likely sink into the mattress some.
Dr. Tedesco conversely found the bed to possess a relatively bouncy feel. “When you first lie on it, you don’t feel cradled, but once you relax into it, you do,” he said. He recommended this mattress for all sleeper types, as he found it worked well in all three positions and gave it a score of 4 out of 5 for pressure relief and overall comfort.
Kenny continued finding excellent results during testing as he moved on to our cooling test. After he lay on the Signature Hybrid for 5 minutes, he felt the area where his body was. “It’s apparent that someone was there, but I didn’t feel any noticeable heating up while I was on the bed.” This is further affirmed by the thermal gun results, which showed the bed heated up by 7.4 degrees after he was done lying on it
If you plan to incorporate the edge of the bed during sex, the Signature Hybrid has you covered. When Kenny tested the mattress’s edge support, he found solid results. He said, “I felt some slight sinkage on my back but did not feel like I was going to fall off at any point.” This edge support is mainly provided by the innerspring coils that prevent too much sinkage when applying pressure.
Unfortunately, this bed is better for sexually active couples than sleeping couples due to its poor motion isolation score, which was only 3.6 out of 5 stars. If your partner plans to spend the night afterward, you will likely feel them tossing and turning next to you. Additionally, this affordable mattress has a very simple construction. If you’re looking for luxury features, you won’t find them here.
For more information, read our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review. For couples, try the Nectar Premier or check out our best mattress for combination sleepers roundup.
Silk & Snow Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress for Sex
As an affordable option with a medium-firm feel, we think that the Silk & Snow Hybrid should appeal to a wide variety of sleepers, including back sleepers, side sleepers, hot sleepers, and budget shoppers. Learn more in our full video review, where we compare the Silk & Snow Hybrid to the original Silk & Snow, which doesn’t have coils.
What our tester says:
“The Silk & Snow Hybrid is a great middle ground firmness for those who don’t want an ultra-firm bed, but also want to feel well-supported.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
If you enjoy the soft, contouring feel of memory foam mattresses but also seek supportive innerspring construction, consider a hybrid mattress that combines both materials. Dr. Raj Dasgupta describes hybrid mattresses as “the superheroes of sleep comfort” due to their balanced feel. When it comes to sex, the Silk & Snow Hybrid helps assist the transitions between positions and prevents both partners from overheating. Overall, this bed earned 4 stars for sex. Its 4-star responsiveness and 4.5-star cooling abilities impressed us most, creating a chilled and bouncy feel. The edge support earned 3.5 stars, so it’s a better option for couples who don’t typically place much weight on the bed’s perimeter during sex.
This hybrid mattress lands at a 6.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, classifying it as a medium-firm bed. The Silk & Snow has soft, pressure-relieving foams up top and a supportive coil below that promotes proper spinal alignment. Despite the initial softness, our tester Dan Caffrey found it to offer good mobility. Dan said, “Overall, this is a pretty responsive mattress that makes it fairly easy to move around on.” However, sexually active couples should be aware that Dan noticed he’d slightly wobble after switching positions due to the bouncy springs.
If you’re working up a sweat during sex, the Silk & Snow should help wick away moisture and prevent things from getting overly steamy. When Dan used a thermal gun to measure the Silk & Snow Hybrid’s temperature before and after lying on it for 5 minutes, he found a temperature increase of 4.1 degrees, which indicates it excellent cooling abilities. As he lay there, he didn’t feel the bed heating up beneath him and thought it kept a cool temperature throughout the test. Because of this, we don’t think you’ll have to worry about overheating during sex.
Dan was also our edge support tester. When he lay directly on the edges, he thought the mattress cover made it slippery, making him feel unstable. However, I believe this can be easily solved with a pair of crisp sheets. Sitting directly on the edge, he felt less sturdy, saying, “The layers compressed quite a bit.” While you’re likely to sleep securely near the edges, we wouldn’t recommend incorporating them into your sex life, as you can’t lean on them and still feel supported. When we cut into the mattress, we noticed that the coils didn’t extend to the edge, which is likely why this category scored lower.
If you’re planning to roll over onto your side after sex, I want to make you aware of the pressure some of our testers noticed in their shoulders in this position. While this isn’t too concerning, I think people with sensitive shoulders or preexisting shoulder pain may want a softer mattress. Dr. Tedesco corroborated this with his own testing experience while side sleeping on this bed. “I noticed I sank too much and felt a lot of pressure buildup in those sinking points,” he said.
For a closer look at the Silk & Snow, read our full Silk & Snow Hybrid mattress review. And if you have shoulder pain, try the Saatva Rx, or head to our best hybrid mattress roundup.
Nolah Evolution – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers and Sex
The Nolah Evolution’s hybrid construction offers the cushioning of memory foam with the responsiveness of coils. The Luxury Firm model is a good option for side and back sleepers due to its medium-firm feel, though there are Plush and Firm versions as well. Those who share a bed may also appreciate its low motion transfer, so you won’t be disturbed by a partner’s movements and its solid edge support to allow you to maximize surface area. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I laid down to rest on this mattress on my back — my primary sleep position. I felt comfortable, but also appreciated the cozy, plush top of the bed. After some time lying on my back, I switched over to my side. I didn’t find this position quite as comfortable, as I did feel some slight pressure buildup in my shoulder.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
If you’re a side sleeper looking for the best mattress for sex, look no further than the Nolah Evolution, which offers three different firmness options: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. Dr. Shelby Harris says, “Side sleepers need pressure relief at the shoulders and hips, which means that they’ll typically want to stick with a softer mattress that will contour to their body and help prevent too much pressure on their joints throughout the night.”
We found plenty of pressure relief when we tested the Nolah Evolution Luxury Firm model in our studio. Since this hybrid mattress contains coils, it also had a decent level of bounce to help couples switch up their position during sex, so we gave it 4 stars for responsiveness. We were also wowed by the 4-star edge support that provides security during sex and the 4.5-star cooling that prevents couples from getting too sweaty. Overall, we gave it 4.3 stars for sex, making it a solid choice.
When our tester, Sosha Lewis, performed the switch test, she found it relatively easy to move around. The soft pillow top did add some resistance, but she thinks most people should be able to reposition without issue. “When I was moving from my back to my stomach, I found it easier when I planted my foot in the bed and pushed off,” she said. “With that being said, I could change positions without doing this, and switching from my back to my side wasn’t a problem.”
Sosha also performed the thermal gun test and found a temperature increase of 4.9 degrees after she spent 5 minutes lying on it. She owns the previous version of the Nolah Evolution, which she bought specifically because she’s a side sleeper and her husband is a hot sleeper. During testing, she thought this version of the Nolah was even cooler than the version she owns.
The organic cotton cover was cool to the touch, likely due to Nolah’s proprietary ArticTex fibers that help maintain a neutral temperature. The bed also includes foam designed to be breathable, which are supplemented by a proprietary AirBreath border gusset. A layer of coils adds a final cooling touch by allowing all the hot air to flow without getting stuck. On her experience, Sosha said, “I had worked out right before we started testing and my temperature hadn’t regulated. I could feel the heat leaving my body as I was on the Nolah.”
When the Nolah Evolution’s edges were tested, we thought they were solid. There wasn’t a ton of sinkage to be found, even when applying our full weight to just one place. While they’re not the sturdiest edges we’ve ever tested, they’re certainly better than average and can allow couples to rely on them during sex.
While this bed is a top choice for side sleepers, we didn’t find enough support in the stomach-sleeping position. Stomach sleepers should opt for the Firm model at checkout to avoid sinkage at the hips, which can lead to back pain. Some side sleepers and back sleepers may find the Nolah Evolution’s tufted top a bit difficult to navigate when seeking seamless pressure relief. This was something Dr. Tedesco noted during his testing, as he said, “It’s keeping me from getting the full body contour I’d like to feel because I’m not getting full contact with the bed.” This mattress is also one of the pricier ones on this roundup, so it’s not the best option for shoppers on a strict budget.
For a closer look at the Nolah Evolution, read our full Nolah Evolution mattress review. For a firmer mattress, try the WinkBed Original mattress. Side sleepers can check out more options in our best mattress for side sleepers roundup.
Plank Firm – Best Flippable Mattress for Sex
The Plank Firm more than lives up to its name with its ultra-sturdy foams and supportive feel. While this bed certainly isn’t for everyone, it should be an ideal fit for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combination sleepers who want to feel more on top of their mattress than in it. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I think the Plank Firm is one of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers. Both sides of the mattress, the firm side and extra firm side, should give these sleepers the support they need to keep their hips in line with their shoulders. Back sleepers who like a firmer feel should also be happy on the firm side of the Plank.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
For sleepers who say their ideal bed is “as firm as possible,” the Plank Firm by Brooklyn Bedding is a perfect match. This mattress is flippable, with each side sporting a different feel. The firm side is slightly firmer than an industry-standard medium-firm mattress, coming in at a 7 out of 10 on the firmness scale. Then there’s the extra-firm side, which is the firmest bed I have ever tested — it’s a 9 out of 10 on the firmness scale. The extra-firm side earned 4.3 stars for sex based on 5-star responsiveness, 3.5-star edge support, and 4.5 stars for cooling. The firm side earned 3.8 stars for sex, earning the same score as the extra-firm side in responsiveness and edge support but only 3 stars in cooling.
Both sides of the Plank Firm are extremely easy to move around on, making it good for sex. Since this bed is so firm, think of it as sleeping on… well, a plank. There’s no bounce, but there’s also zero sinkage, so moving around was easy peasy. Both sides earned 5 stars for responsiveness because our mobility wasn’t inhibited in the slightest.
To make sure this bed is cool enough for sweaty activities like sex, I used a thermal gun to measure how much it retains heat. The extra-firm side performed slightly better than the firm side, likely because the extra-firm side contains less foam. I tested the extra-firm side and didn’t notice it heating up too much when lying on it. It wasn’t particularly airy or cool to the touch, but its temperature only increased by 5 degrees. I thought it was pretty temperature-neutral. My colleague Sosha Lewis performed the same test on the firm side and found a 10-degree temperature increase after she was on it for five minutes. However, she also didn’t notice it heating up and thought it remained neutral– not cold, but not hot.
The edge support was average on both sides of the Plank Firm, earning 3.5 stars. Since it’s an all-foam mattress, there are no coils to reinforce the edges and provide lots of lift. However, since it is so firm, we didn’t experience a concerning amount of sinkage. The firm side was a bit less stable when sitting directly on the edge, but I felt much more secure when lying near the edge. You’ll be able to rely on the edge support — you won’t have to worry about falling off the bed during sex if you get too close to the edge.
While the firm support makes the bed great for sex, back sleeping, and stomach sleeping, you may experience some pressure on your hips and shoulders if you plan to sleep on your side afterward. This bed wasn’t designed with side sleepers in mind, so these folks should seek a softer mattress with more cushioning to prevent joint pain.
Read our full Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm mattress review for more information on the Plank Firm. For a flippable mattress that offers a firm and soft side, try the Layla memory foam mattress or head to our best flippable mattress roundup.
Other Mattresses for Sex We Researched
There are plenty of responsive, temperature-regulating mattresses with sturdy edge support available. If I included them all in this roundup, it would be a mile long. However, here are two bonus mattresses that are excellent for sex in case none of my top 10 are calling your name.
Saatva Latex Hybrid
If you’re looking for a ton of bounce, the Saatva Latex Hybrid is the way to go. Latex is naturally buoyant, so this bed earned 5 stars for responsiveness, slightly better than the Saatva Classic. Latex is also naturally cooling, so this mattress performed the same as the Saatva Classic in this category. However, it didn’t make my list because of its 3.5-star edge support, which is much weaker than the Saatva Classic’s, which was super sturdy and earned the full 5 stars.
Avocado Green
If organic mattresses are your jam, you’ll love the Avocado Green. Not only is this bed environmentally friendly, but it also earned 5 stars for responsiveness and 4.5 stars for edge support. The only area it lacked was cooling, earning only 3.5 stars. If you sleep cold or temperature neutral, the Avocado Green could be a good choice, but hot sleepers will likely prefer a bed that scored higher on our cooling test.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Mattresses for Sex
When it comes to mattress performance, we know a thing or two about what makes a mattress good or bad. We test every mattress in our studio using subjective and objective tests to provide a large scope for how the bed may perform for you specifically. Over the years, we’ve tested more than 375 mattresses and seen our fair share of outstanding and subpar testing results.
We also work closely with a network of medical experts, from board-certified sleep doctors and chiropractors to physical therapists and sleep specialists, who helped us create our testing methodology. This methodology has been medically reviewed for accuracy, so you can rest easy knowing our recommendations are based on concrete data. We also have our team of certified sleep science coaches trained in mattress testing.
When testing mattresses for sex, we hone in on three tests: our switch test to observe responsiveness, our thermal gun test to determine cooling, and our edge support test to analyze stability. Below, I’ll dive into each test and how we use the results to create our final score for each category. Our overall sex score is based on the average of all three tests.
Responsiveness
When we say a mattress is “responsive,” we mean it’s easy to move around on. The most responsive beds typically include a layer of supportive coils. Coils add bounce to the bed, which helps aid in the transition between sex positions. However, bounce doesn’t inherently mean responsiveness. Plenty of beds are bouncy yet challenging to move around due to plush foams that trap the sleeper. Likewise, some beds contain zero coils yet are firm enough to move around on with ease.
We analyze responsiveness by performing a subjective switch test. This test is relatively simple. We have a tester lay down on the bed and switch between multiple sleeping positions. The tester observes how much effort was required during the switch and whether the mattress inhibited their movement. If they can move around with ease, then we consider the bed responsive. If they feel trapped in the foam, then you may have a more challenging time moving around during sex.
Cooling
Since sex can get hot and sweaty, we want to recommend mattresses that help with temperature regulation. When we evaluate a mattress for cooling, we first examine its materials and construction. We look for beds that promote airflow, often from coil layers that add space inside the bed for hot air to flow without getting trapped. We also look for breathable covers using organic cotton, Tencel, or phase change materials like Celliant. Cooling infusions also help dissipate heat; our favorites are gel, copper, and graphite.
Next, we collect objective cooling data using a thermal gun. First, we record the initial temperature of the mattress before anyone has touched it. Then, a tester lays on the bed for 5 minutes and observes whether they can feel it heating up below them. Finally, we used the thermal gun to record the bed’s temperature again and calculate how many degrees it increased. Less than 4 degrees earns 5 stars, between 4 and 6 degrees earns 4.5 stars, 6 to 8 degrees earns 4 stars, and 8 to 10 degrees earns 3.5 stars. We typically don’t recommend mattresses that score less than 3.5 stars on our thermal gun test.
Edge Support
Sex doesn’t always remain on the very center of the bed, so it’s important to look for a mattress with strong edges that allow you to use the entire surface of the bed. We measure edge support using two tests. The first involves a tester sitting directly on the edge of the bed and observing how stable they feel. They note how much the mattress collapses under their weight and whether it requires effort to stand up. They then lie along the edge in three sleeping positions and observe whether or not they feel at risk of slipping off. This test is most important to look at when evaluating a bed’s performance for sex because it shows whether you’ll feel supported during the act.
Our next test involves weighted plates. We create three weight stacks to represent the three different weight classes of sleepers: lightweight, average-weight, and heavyweight. The weights are placed directly on the edge of the bed, and we use a ruler or tape measure to measure the sinkage. This helps us better understand how the edges will hold up for different body types, and who can rely on them for equal support during sex.
What to Consider When Buying a Mattress for Sex
Typically, you’re not solely buying a mattress to have sex on. You’re also planning to sleep on it. While we’ve broken down the most important factors for sex, there are also some other elements to keep in mind when purchasing a mattress.
Sleeping Position
Whether you sleep on your back, side, or stomach can largely determine how a mattress will feel for you. What works best for side sleepers differs entirely from what works best for stomach sleepers. Here’s a quick breakdown of the sleeping positions and what type of mattress they should seek:
- Back sleepers: These are the most versatile type of sleepers, and they can usually find quality sleep on most mattress types. The most important thing to remember is proper spinal support. We recommend mattresses with solid support systems that prop the hips in line with the shoulders. A bit of cushioning to fill in the space at the lower back also helps with both comfort and lumbar support.
- Side sleepers: These sleepers place most of their weight on their hips and shoulders, so pressure relief is crucial. We typically steer these folks towards soft and medium-firm mattresses that provide plenty of sinkage and body contouring around these sensitive joints.
- Stomach sleepers: Firm is the name of the game when it comes to stomach sleeping. These sleepers require lots of support at the hips to prevent them from sinking too far into the mattress. If the hips fall beneath the shoulders, the lower back forms a U shape, which can lead to pain over time.
- Combination sleepers: If you switch between different sleeping positions, look for a mattress that’s compatible with the two sleeping positions you spend most of the night in. Since you’re moving around, responsiveness is another factor to pay attention to.
Firmness and Feel
Mattress firmness can be subjective depending on your body composition and preferred sleeping position. Therefore, we break it down using our Sleepopolis firmness scale. We rate mattresses on a scale of 1 to 10 where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. A 6.5 out of 10 score is the industry standard for a true medium-firm mattress.
We create our firmness score by having multiple testers lie on the bed in all three sleeping positions. Each tester rates the bed on the firmness scale, and then we find the average to create the final firmness level.
Body Type
Not everyone is built the same, and your weight can largely determine how a mattress feels. For example, sleepers with larger bodies sink further into a mattress’s layers than a petite sleeper does, so they’re likely to experience beds as softer and find less support. On the other hand, lightweight sleepers often experience mattresses as firmer than average because they don’t sink in as far.
We test each mattress to see how it will work for those in the lightweight, average-weight, and heavyweight categories to provide a broader understanding of how the bed may perform for your body type. If you’re unsure which weight class you fall in, check out this handy chart below.
| Lightweight Sleepers | Average-Weight Sleepers | Larger-Bodied Sleepers |
| Less than 130 pounds | 130–230 pounds | Over 230 pounds |
Pressure Relief
Pressure relief refers to the amount of pressure alleviated on various body parts when lying on a mattress. This is important not only for sleeping but also for comfort when having sex. If you or you’re on your back but your mattress is not good at relieving pressure in the lumbar region, then sex may not be as enjoyable as it could be and may even be uncomfortable. The same goes for stomach or side laying. Dr. Dasgupta also reminds us, “If you’re feeling pressure points, your mattress is probably not the right firmness for your body type and preferred sleep position.”
We test pressure relief using a thermal technology mat to sense where pressure is building on the body. We have testers from the lightweight, average-weight, and heavyweight categories each mattress because different pressure levels are applied depending on how much you weigh. The pressure map then creates a colorful graphic that shows where pressure is alleviated and where it’s building. Blue and green mean good pressure, and yellow and red indicate high pressure. The map also provides us with the tester’s average PSI, which we then compare to the overall average PSI for that sleeping position.
Motion Isolation
Motion isolation, or motion transfer, refers to how well the bed absorbs motion on impact and prevents the sleeper on the other side from feeling it. This is especially important for couples, as tossing and turning can cause your partner to wake up. We test motion isolation using three tests.
The first test is a water test. We fill a tub with water and place it on one side of the bed. Then, we get in and out of bed on the other side and switch sleeping positions. We observe how much the water moves inside the tub and whether our movement causes it to gently ripple or slosh and spill.
The next test is our partner test. This is similar to the water test, but we swap the water tub for an actual person. This person wears a blindfold while a tester next to them moves around. They then raise their hand every time they detect motion, and we see if they can tell what’s happening over on the other side of the bed.
Our last test, the seismometer test, provides us with a visual representation of motion disturbance. We place a seismometer on one side of the bed and drop a 10-pound ball from gradually increasing heights onto the other side. A seismograph displays the results in a graph where the larger and more spread out the lines are, the worse the motion isolation is. The best results display small lines that quickly dissipate.
Mattress Type
As you may have noticed on this roundup, you can choose from several different types of mattresses, each offering unique features. See my mini guide below for a quick look at the mattress types and how they stack up during sex.
Innerspring: Innerspring mattresses are made from a layer of coils, or springs, and a thinner layer of foam on the top of the mattress. These are traditional, but they remain popular for their support and excellent cooling capabilities. Coils make the bed extremely breathable, so they are a great choice for those who like to be sure they are cool. The springs also provide good durability and edge support for a mattress, which, like we mentioned, is important when looking for mattresses with sex.
Memory Foam: Memory foam is a distinct type of foam that is slow-moving, contouring, and very comfortable for many sleepers. This is a great option for sleepers who like to feel like they are hugged in by their bed. It is also a great option for contouring the body, which helps provide fantastic pressure relief. This material may make it challenging to change positions during sex, as it remembers or maintains its shape. Foam beds on the firmer side may be better for sex.
Latex: Latex mattresses are an excellent, eco-friendly choice for a mattress and may also help reduce exposure to allergens such as dust. Natural latex is made from tree sap, meaning that it is better for the environment than man-made materials and also naturally allergen repellant. It’s also comfortable while providing necessary support, and its porous material makes it very breathable. The cooling capabilities and bounciness of latex make it great for sex.
Hybrid: Hybrid mattresses consist of foam layers and a coil layer. These beds are very comfortable, can stay cool because of their breathable springs, and are usually a top choice among many sleepers. These mattresses are also very supportive and generally offer excellent pressure relief, making them a great option for sex.
Noise
Sometimes, you need a certain degree of discretion. Some mattresses can be extremely loud with movements, drawing unwanted attention, so an ideal mattress for sex will help keep the noise to a minimum. We test this by moving around the mattress to see how loud it is. Our seismograph, which we use to test for motion isolation, also gives us an idea of how much movement is absorbed or not. This can help you find a mattress that is comfortable and meets the needs of you and the people you are having sex with while not creating too much unwanted noise.
Typically, we see that memory foam mattresses absorb the most noise. Hybrid and pillow-top mattresses also absorb noise well because of the layers of foam that can cushion you. The downside of foam, however, is that it might restrict movement, which isn’t great when moving through various sex positions. Innerspring mattresses are naturally firmer and don’t absorb noise as much, so keep that in mind. However, we tested each bed on this roundup and didn’t hear any significant noise.
Company Policies
It’s important to read the fine print before buying a new mattress. We recommend users pay close attention to sleep trials, warranties, and shipping policies. Below, I’ll break down each of these policies so you know what to look for. Remember, the beds on this list all come with free shipping and lengthy sleep trial periods and warranties.
- Sleep Trial Period: The purpose of a sleep trial is to be able to test a bed in the comfort of your own home for a lengthy amount of time. We recommend looking for sleep trials that last at least 120 nights, with 365-night trials being the best. This gives you plenty of time to break in your mattress and determine if it fits your sleep preferences and needs.
- Warranty: Most brands offer a 10- to 20-year warranty on mattresses to protect the customer from manufacturing errors or defects. Read the terms and conditions of the warranty carefully before committing to purchasing a new mattress. A mattress warranty also gives us a good idea of how long the company expects the mattress to last, which can indicate its durability. We’re partial to lifetime warranties, which guarantee the mattress will last several decades.
- Shipping: Many consumers complain that shipping is a hidden fee added at the end. We have made sure that each mattress on this list offers free shipping so you don’t have to add that into your budget. Many companies, such as Saatva, offer free white glove delivery, which means the brand hand delivers the mattress to your door, sets it up in the room of your choice, and removes your old mattress. Shipping can also be very expensive if you are purchasing internationally, so we also looked into some of the best Canadian mattresses to help you navigate international mattress shopping.
Best Bed Frames for Sex
If you’re buying a mattress, there’s a good chance you’re also purchasing a bed frame. The best bed frame for sex will be sturdy and quiet. Wood and steel are two great materials that can prevent the bed frame from squeaking and creaking. Some frames come with foam-padded tape that helps reduce noise. This may be a good feature to look for if you’re worried about the frame being loud.
Before purchasing a bed frame, read the fine print, as most bed frames specify a weight limit. If the combined weight of you, your partner, and your mattress exceeds the limit, the frame may be louder.