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Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers or pressure sores, are a form of skin damage resulting from a prolonged deprivation of blood flow. These sores are common at bony areas (such as the elbows, heels, tailbone, and back of the head), as pressure builds more easily in these sensitive spots and makes them susceptible to a loss of circulation over time.
Often, those who have bedsores are already dealing with other conditions. Since bedsores occur from long periods of immobility, those who develop them are typically patients on bed rest and those recovering from a major surgery.
The right mattress may not completely cure pain from bedsores, but we do believe that this list of the best mattresses to prevent bedsores can help you get better, more comfortable sleep. These beds were vetted by our expert testers, including physical therapist Dr. Joe Tedesco, our chief medical product tester. Keep on reading as we break down our favorite pressure-relieving mattresses.
Disclaimer: The mattresses on this list are standard models that consumers can buy online. They are not hospital-grade beds nor do they have alternating pressure features, which are often recommended for bed sores in a medical setting. The content in this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or serve as a substitute for seeing a medical professional regarding any sleep problems you may have. Please see your doctor regarding any urgent medical issues.
Sleepopolis’ Best In Rest – Bedsore Prevention
The best mattress for bedsore prevention is the Helix Midnight Luxe because it combines the three most important elements in a mattress for preventing bedsores: responsiveness, support, and most importantly, pressure relief. It’s a luxury hybrid that should suit multiple sleeping styles.
The Best Mattresses for Bedsore Prevention
- Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress – Best Overall Mattress for Bedsores
- Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – Best Soft Mattress for Bedsores
- Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress – Best Luxury Mattress for Bedsores
- DreamCloud Original Mattress – Best Affordable Mattress for Bedsores
- Nectar Premier Mattress – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Bedsores
- Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress – Best Cooling Mattress for Bedsores
- Saatva Rx Mattress – Best Mattress for Joint Pain and Bedsores
- Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress – Best Hybrid Mattress for Bedsores
- Titan Plus Core – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers and Bedsores
- Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress – Best Firm Mattress for Bedsores
Top Deals
- Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress – 20% Off Sitewide with Code LDW20; 25% Off Luxe Mattresses with Code LUXE25; 30% Off Elite Mattresses with Code ELITE30
- Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – 25% Off Mattresses | Up to 30% Off Mattress and Adjustable Base Bundle | 25% Off Bedding
- Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress – 25% Off Sitewide with Code LABORDAY25
- DreamCloud Original Mattress – Save Up to 60% Off Mattresses + 66% on Bundles
- Nectar Premier Mattress – Save Up to 50% on Mattresses + 66% on Bundles
How We Picked the Best Mattresses for Preventing Bedsores
If a mattress is pressure-relieving, it’s capable of helping ease pressure on sensitive areas. This is typically thanks to soft foams that contour and cradle the body. A mattress without pressure-relieving layers will likely contribute to the cutoff of blood supply experienced by those with bedsores when lying in the same position for a prolonged period.
We test pressure relief in two positions: back and side sleeping. Our testers representing each weight category rest on the mattress and judge how supported and comfortable they feel. As they give their opinion, a specialized mat on the bed’s surface records where pressure builds up along their body.
Since pressure ulcers are often a result of sustained immobility, sleepers should select a mattress that either makes it easy for them to move around, or easy for someone else to help them change positions. Frequent movement helps redistribute pressure between the body and the mattress, reducing tension in the affected body parts and lowering the risk of tissue damage.
We test a bed’s responsiveness by moving around on the bed’s surface and rating it out of five. Beds with coils or latex are typically bouncier than those with memory foam, but some firm foam beds have good springback.
A durable mattress is important for preventing pressure injuries. If your mattress sags prematurely, it can lead to pressure buildup in parts of the body that fall into these indentations.
To determine whether a mattress is durable, we take a look at its construction and warranty. High-quality materials add structure and reinforcement to a mattress, while a long warranty speaks to the manufacturer’s confidence in the product. We also consider strong edge support a sign that a bed will hold its shape.
We’ve developed a rigorous testing methodology that tells us how each mattress performs and who it might be a good fit for. All of the beds on this list have been evaluated for pressure relief, cooling abilities, responsiveness, edge support, and much more.
Our team of certified sleep science coaches has tested more than 500 mattresses over the last decade, allowing us to guide more than 145,000 people to the best mattress for them. Not only do we use and evaluate these products ourselves, but we also consult with doctors and other professionals to ensure we keep up to date with the latest in sleep science and medicine. For example, Dr. Joe Tedesco (DPT, OCS, ATC, CSCS) comes into our studio to personally test mattresses and give a medical perspective on each product.
Need help finding the right mattress?
Compare the Best Bedsore Prevention Mattresses
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress | Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress | DreamCloud Original Mattress | Nectar Premier Mattress | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Saatva Rx Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Titan Plus Core | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-Soft: 6/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Multiple Firmness Options: 7/10 | Firm: 7/10 | Medium-Soft: 6/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Medium-Firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Firm: 7.5/10 | Multiple Firmness Options |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| Best For | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hip Pain | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Couples | Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hip Pain | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hip Pain | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hip Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors |
Helix Midnight Luxe – Best Overall Mattress for Bedsores
Helix has a line of six hybrid mattresses, each with a different level of firmness. The Midnight is one of their medium models. It has enough contouring for side sleepers, but should still be supportive enough for back sleepers, as long as they don’t mind a softer bed. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“I like the Helix Midnight Luxe for back sleepers and side sleepers. The medium-soft to medium-firm feel should give these folks the right balance of comfort and support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester
Why It’s the Best Mattress for Bedsores Overall
- The Helix Midnight Luxe earned an impressive 4.2 out of 5 rating for overall pressure relief, thanks to its above-average performance for both back and side sleepers.
- At 6.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale, the Midnight Luxe has a true medium-firm feel that should accommodate multiple sleeper types.
- This hybrid effectively balances both motion isolation and responsiveness, which should help sleepers move around more seamlessly, preventing bed sores.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4/5
Our partner test showed that the Helix Midnight Luxe has solid motion isolation.
Cooling: 4/5
A 7-degree temperature increase after 5 minutes spent on the bed marks a good cooling mattress.
Response: 4/5
It was pretty easy to move around on this bed, despite some pushback from the softer top.
Edge Support: 4.8/5
The edges were exceptionally strong, earning a near-perfect score from our tester.
Pressure Relief: 4.2/5
Our pressure map test showed negligible pressure buildup in all sleeping positions.
Firmness: 6.5/10
This bed’s hybrid construction yields a true medium-firm feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
After trying out the Helix Midnight Luxe, Dr. Tedesco was generally impressed with the bed’s balance of cushioning and good support. “This is most ideal for side sleepers with arthritis in just about any body part,” he said. “I especially like this for people with arthritis in extremities in any sleeping position.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | excellent | excellent | unpleasant |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | excellent | excellent | unpleasant |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | excellent | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
As the luxury version of the brand’s medium-firm Helix Midnight, the Midnight Luxe has an extra layer of cushioning, thanks to an added pillow top. The result is a super-contouring, pressure-relieving hybrid with supportive coils to back it up. Despite this, it has enough bounce to make moving around on its surface feel easy, a must-have for those looking to prevent pressure sores.
Our testers loved this mattress for back and side sleeping, with its zoned support ensuring alignment for both positions. However, it’s a touch too soft for some, including those who primarily rest on their stomachs.
Choose the Helix Midnight Luxe if …
- You sleep near the edges of your mattress. The Helix Midnight Luxe earned a near-perfect edge support rating of 4.8 out of 5. Our testers barely noticed any sinkage when perched on the perimeter of the bed.
- You sleep on your back or side. These two positions earned the most praise from our testers — back sleepers especially. The Midnight Luxe balances softness and support to keep pressure evenly distributed.
Keep looking if …
- You sleep on your stomach. The Helix Midnight Luxe is too soft to support these sleepers. They’ll feel a pronounced dip in their hips, which could eventually lead to lower back pain.
- You’re on a budget. As the name “Luxe” implies, this mattress is on the higher end of the price scale. If you’re after something more affordable, check out the DreamCloud mattress.
For more information about this bed, read our full Helix Midnight Luxe mattress review.
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – Best Soft Mattress for Bedsores
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. It should be especially comfortable for back sleepers and side sleepers. The bed 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:
“Sleepers with joint pain can appreciate the soft, plush feel, which can reduce tension and stiffness at their pressure points. I also think back sleepers and side sleepers will be comfortable on this mattress.” – Riley Otis, staff writer
Why It’s the Best Soft Mattress for Bedsores
- At 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale, the Medium-Firm model of the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid skews a bit softer than advertised.
- This bed earned impressive marks for pressure relief and responsiveness, rated 4.5 out of 5 in both categories, which should help prevent bedsores.
- True to its name, the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid also earned an above-average rating for its cooling capability.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 3.7/5
The water sloshed around quite a bit during our ripple test, indicating just-average motion isolation.
Cooling: 4.5/5
This bed lived up to its name with its exceptional cooling abilities.
Response: 4.5/5
Moving around was largely seamless, save for rolling over on the doughier pillow top.
Edge Support: 3.9/5
While our tester found the edge support acceptable, there was more sagging in our weighted tests.
Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
Our pressure map results showed almost no pressure buildup on the Leesa Sapira Chill.
Firmness: 6/10
We found the Leesa Sapira Chill’s construction to have a softer feel.
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
Dr. Joe Tedesco preferred the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid’s softer feel for side sleeping. “My hips aren’t falling into the mattress like they were on my back,” he explained. “There’s the right amount of softness to relieve pressure at the joints, but the coils underneath are providing enough support to keep the spine straight and neutral. My ankles and hips don’t have any extra pressure, either.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | excellent | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | excellent | excellent | unpleasant |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | unpleasant | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid is a beloved favorite at Sleepopolis, thanks to its mix of plush comfort and robust support. It’s a great pick for side sleepers and anyone who needs pressure relief — those dealing with or looking to prevent bedsores included. On top of that, it features effective cooling features and a decently responsive surface for all the softness up top.
However, this super-soft feel isn’t for everyone. Stomach sleepers and those over 230 pounds will likely want something firmer, even beyond what the Firm model of the Sapira Chill hybrid can provide.
Choose the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid if …
- You’re a side sleeper under 230 pounds. Lightweight and average-weight side sleepers will love the contouring and sinkage the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid provides.
- You’re looking for a good mattress for sex. Because of its cooling capability and responsive surface, the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid should complement the main event.
Keep looking if …
- You’re a heavyweight sleeper. Unfortunately, our heavyweight tester thought the Medium-Firm model of this mattress was too soft to support him. While the Firm model may yield better success, some plus-size sleepers may fare better on the Titan Plus Core.
- You’re a light sleeper. You may feel your partner’s movements on this mattress, as the Leesa performed a bit below-average in our motion isolation tests.
For more information about this bed, read our full Leesa Sapira Chill mattress review.
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe – Best Luxury Mattress for Bedsores
The Brookyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress is one of Brooklyn Bedding’s more high-end mattresses. It has a ton of cooling features in it that can help hot sleepers sleep cool all night. It’s also available in three different firmnesses, so it can accommodate a variety of sleeping positions and body types. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“Back sleepers should find enough support to promote proper spinal alignment while also getting a bit of cushioning at the lumbar region. And the cooling, motion isolation, edge support, and responsiveness scores indicate the Aurora Luxe is a great match for couples.” – Riley Otis, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Luxury Mattress for Bedsores
- The Aurora Luxe boasts high-end features like a thick pillow top, zoned support, and a cool-feeling cover in its construction.
- As a close-to-surefire way to combat pressure sores, this bed earned a 4.5 out of 5 for overall pressure relief, including perfect ratings for back sleepers of all sizes.
- We tried the Medium-Firm version of the Aurora Luxe and found it slightly firmer, which should help sleepers find extra support.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 3.8/5
We noticed a bit of disturbance in our water test when someone was switching positions on the other side of the bed.
Cooling: 4/5
The Aurora Luxe has a cool, crisp-feeling cover.
Response: 4/5
You sink into the surface of this bed a little bit, but it’s still relatively easy to switch positions and move around.
Edge Support: 4/5
We only noticed the edge dipping beneath our weight when we sat at the perimeter.
Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
This mattress earned an impressive perfect rating for back-sleeping pressure relief.
Firmness: 7/10
The Medium model of the Aurora Luxe feels slightly firmer than true medium-firm.
Tester Notes
Lightweight tester Riley Otis gave the Medium model of the Aurora Luxe 5 out of 5 stars for back sleeping. “I think this mattress is an excellent choice for back sleepers. It has the right level of firmness to keep the spine lifted and properly aligned, while still offering plenty of softness to cushion the upper back,” she said. “I also felt some nice contouring through the lower back, which helped support that area without feeling forced — no real complaints here.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | good |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | good | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
The Aurora Luxe is one of Brooklyn Bedding’s more luxurious offerings, a hybrid topped with a plush, cooling hybrid. Its zoned support is a bonus for sleepers dealing with back pain or spinal problems, while its bounce should help sleepers redistribute weight and pressure to avoid bedsores.
This mattress earned a plethora of 4-star ratings from our testers, including above-average pressure relief results. Its main downside is the high price tag. While we consider this bed “worth it,” it may be a hard pill to swallow for budget shoppers.
Choose the Aurora Luxe if …
- You primarily sleep on your back. This position earned the most praise from our lightweight, average-weight, and heavyweight testers.
- You like a bed that skews firm. Though described as Medium-Firm, we found this Aurora Luxe model a touch firmer than expected. This is likely true for the iterations, so if you like extra lift, you’re set.
Keep looking if …
- You’re looking for a cheaper bed. The Aurora Luxe typically retails for over $2,000 for a queen, and sales don’t make much of a dent in that price.
- You’re a light sleeper with a rowdy bedmate. Our testers could feel a little bit of motion transfer from one side of the bed to the other. If your partner tosses and turns, you may want a mattress with better motion absorption, such as the Nolah Evolution, to help you sleep soundly.
For more information about this bed, read our full Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress review.
DreamCloud – Best Affordable Mattress for Bedsores
With soft foam and a sturdy layer of innerspring coils, the DreamCloud strikes a balance between comfort and support — a little bit of contouring up top and on-top-of-the-bed feel that comes from the bottom. It’s a fairly firm mattress that we think is most comfortable for back sleepers. It also has some luxury touches such as a cashmere-blend cover that are reminiscent of a high-end hotel. Learn more in our DreamCloud video review.
What our tester says:
“Lightweight and average-weight back sleepers will find a great balance between spinal support and plush cushioning at the lower back. This bed also performed very well on our cooling tests, making it a great pick for hot sleepers.” – Riley Otis, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Affordable Mattress for Bedsores
- You can purchase a queen-size DreamCloud mattress for the hard-to-beat price of $700.
- This hybrid boasts an approachable medium-firm feel, a mega-bounce, and excellent pressure relief, all of which should help sleepers prevent bedsores.
- The DreamCloud earned 4s and above in every testing category, marking it as a well-rounded fit for most sleepers.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Our tester noticed little disturbance in the water during our ripple test, confirming the bed’s motion-isolating ability.
Cooling: 4.5/5
The temperature rose less than 5 degrees after 5 minutes of our tester lying on the bed.
Response: 5/5
The lack of sinkage earned the DreamCloud a perfect responsiveness score.
Edge Support: 4/5
There was some moderate sinkage — but not much — when our tester sat on the edge.
Pressure Relief: 4.4/5
The DreamCloud relieved more pressure while back sleeping than side sleeping.
Firmness: 6.5/10
This hybrid mattress has a balanced medium-firm feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
Dr. Tedesco most enjoyed the DreamCloud mattress on his back, appreciating the support it provided to his extremities. “Your feet are elevated, which is better for your pelvis in this position,” he said. “I don’t feel any pressure points.” He added, “I don’t think it would be great for heavyweight people, but smaller people should really enjoy this mattress.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | excellent | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | unpleasant |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | excellent | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
If you’re looking to marry quality and affordability, check out the DreamCloud mattress. You can purchase this hybrid for less than $1,000, a steal for the level of luxury and comfort it provides. This medium-firm bed balances top-notch pressure relief with bouncy coils, the perfect combination for preventing bedsores.
Despite its high marks across the board, the DreamCloud may not work for all sleepers. It’s only available in one firmness option, which we found too soft to support most stomach sleepers.
Choose the DreamCloud if …
- You’re a light sleeper who shares the bed. For a hybrid, the DreamCloud has exceptional motion absorption. You shouldn’t feel too much disturbance from the other side of the bed.
- You’re a combination sleeper. Even with its thick pillow top to absorb motion, the DreamCloud is still super bouncy. Since you don’t sink too far into the surface, moving around and switching positions is a breeze.
Keep looking if …
- You like a traditional memory foam feel. Though the DreamCloud relieves pressure like a pro, our testers didn’t notice much sinkage, like you would with a softer foam bed. You won’t feel “hugged” by this mattress, but rather comfortably buoyed on top of it.
- You’re a stomach sleeper. Only those under 130 pounds will find the DreamCloud firm enough to support them. If you’re after something firmer, you can’t lose with the Plank Firm.
For more information about this bed, read our full DreamCloud mattress review.
Nectar Premier – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Bedsores
The Nectar Premier is a luxurious all-foam mattress equipped with quality materials. A moisture-wicking cover and gel-infused comfort layer create a cooling, thermoregulating mattress for hot sleepers. Perhaps its strongest attribute is its next-level pressure relief. Six inches of foam work to contour sensitive areas, but the high-density foam at the bottom of the bed provides plenty of support. Watch our video review to learn more.
What our tester says:
“My favorite thing about the Nectar Premier is its great pressure relief. This medium-soft mattress is a great fit for side sleepers looking for plush comfort. It might also be a nice fit for sleepers who deal with shoulder pain.” – Riley Otis, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Memory Foam Mattress for Bedsores
- The Nectar Premier excels in areas most foam beds don’t: cooling and responsiveness — the latter of which should benefit sleepers as they switch positions to address pressure buildup.
- We awarded the Premier a 4.2 out of 5 for overall pressure relief, with testers of all sizes giving it the thumbs-up for both back and side sleeping.
- The Nectar Premier is a decidedly soft mattress, rated at 5.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.2/5
You should likely feel when your partner gets in and out of bed, but smaller movements will be stifled.
Cooling: 4.5/5
For a foam mattress, the Nectar Premier has exceptional cooling.
Response: 4/5
It was fairly easy to switch sleeping positions on the Nectar Premier.
Edge Support: 3.6/5
There was some significant sinkage when our tester sat on the edge.
Pressure Relief: 4.2/5
This mattress had top-notch pressure relief for back sleepers in all weight categories.
Firmness: 5.5/10
The Nectar Premier is on the slightly softer side of the firmness scale.
Dr.Tedesco’s Notes
Dr. Joe Tedesco sank comfortably into the Nectar Premier mattress when he rested on his side. “It’s not too deep of sinkage, or that ‘melting’ feeling, but it’s just soft,” he explained. “It’s supportive — there’s no pressure buildup. If anything, I feel pressure relief on my shoulder. I’m getting good contouring that follows the natural spinal curve.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | excellent | excellent | good |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | excellent | excellent | unpleasant |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | excellent | excellent | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
The Nectar Premier is far from your ordinary foam bed. One step up from the brand’s flagship mattress gets you plusher foams, a cooler-feeling cover, and even more pressure relief. Even with its super-soft feel, it still manages to be responsive, which should help sleepers change positions and avoid bedsores.
While it’s a hoot for side sleepers and anyone who likes deep sinkage, this plushness doesn’t fit the bill for all shoppers. Those who favor strong edge support or a lifted feel will want something firmer.
Choose the Nectar Premier if …
- You sleep on your back or side. Testers of all weight categories liked the mattress in these two positions. In fact, they earned the Nectar Premier a perfect 5-star rating for back-sleeping pressure relief.
- You share the bed with a partner. This bed’s slow-moving, traditional foam feel is perfect for stifling motion before it can disturb sleepers on the opposite side.
Keep looking if …
- You sleep on your stomach. As a soft mattress, this isn’t the fit for stomach sleepers. They’ll need something firmer to keep their hips aligned with their upper body.
- You use your mattress as a second chair. Like many foam beds, the Nectar Premier’s edges aren’t the most sturdy when you sit on them. If you want a rock-solid perimeter but a softer feel on top, check out the Bear Elite Hybrid.
For more information about this bed, read our full Nectar Premier mattress review.
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Cooling Mattress for Bedsores
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.” – Kenny Timper, lead reviewer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Cooling Mattress for Bedsores
- The Bear Elite Hybrid features a state-of-the-art cover that keeps temperatures low and helped it to earn a 4.5-out-of-5 cooling score from our testers.
- This responsive surface also relieves pressure, two plusses for folks looking to prevent pressure injuries on their mattress.
- This is another bed that scored multiple ratings above 4 out of 5, including motion isolation and edge support.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Our tester could only vaguely feel their colleague’s movements on this bed.
Cooling: 4.5/5
There wasn’t much of a temperature increase after we lay on the bed.
Response: 4/5
It was fairly easy to move between sleeping positions on the Bear Elite Hybrid.
Edge Support: 4.4/5
We found that the Bear Elite Hybrid’s edges were fairly sturdy.
Pressure Relief: 4.1/5
Back sleeping is best for pressure relief on this mattress.
Firmness: 7/10
The materials of the Bear Elite Hybrid resulted in a somewhat firmer feel for the mid-range model.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
On the Bear Elite Hybrid, Dr. Joe Tedesco’s favorite sleeping position was resting on his side. “I feel very supported and cradled,” he said. “I don’t notice any pressure that would lead me to believe that people with back pain wouldn’t enjoy this mattress.” However, he thought the mattress could be a bit too soft for some back and stomach sleepers who need added support.
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | good |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | good | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
The Bear Elite Hybrid was created with athletes in mind. However, even if you’re not an athlete, it’s a great bed if you’re looking to rest, recharge, and cool down. It earned an impressive 4.5 out of 5 in our temperature test. On top of that, the excellent pressure relief and the ease of movement its pillow top provides should benefit sleepers looking to stave off bedsores.
This mattress is available in multiple firmness options, though we found the Medium version a bit firmer than expected. Still, it should offer plenty of cushioning up top, though our heavyweight tester still had gripes about its ability to support him.
Choose the Bear Elite Hybrid if …
- You share the bed with a restless partner. The Bear Elite Hybrid earned an impressive 4.7-out-of-5 rating for motion isolation, marking it as an excellent mattress for couples. It’s unlikely you’ll feel a peep on your side of the bed.
- You’re a back sleeper. This is the only position that earned high marks from all our testers. The Bear Elite Hybrid should support lightweight, average-weight, and heavyweight back sleepers looking for a balanced feel.
Keep looking if …
- You’re a heavyweight sleeper. Aside from back sleeping, sleepers over 230 pounds may find the Bear Elite Hybrid too soft to keep them supported. Our heavyweight tester specifically complained of pressure buildup on his side.
- You’re on a budget. As a luxury mattress, the Bear Elite Hybrid costs a pretty penny. A queen-size typically retails for $1,500 or more. For a cheaper option, I’d check out the Nectar Premier – though note it’s an all-foam bed.
For more information about this bed, read our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review.
Saatva Rx – Best Mattress for Joint Pain and Bedsores
Designed specifically for sleepers with back pain and joint pain, the Saatva Rx features several layers that combine both foam and coils. This creates a blend of comfort and support throughout the entire mattress that’s cushioning enough for any aches and pains while still being sturdy enough for a neutral spinal alignment. Learn more in our Saatva Rx video review.
What our tester says:
“Overall, the mattress offers a pleasant mix of comfort and support to create a balanced, medium-firm feel. While lying on the bed, I experienced plushness and cushioning from the quilted cover and upper foam layers, but felt firmly supported by the coils below. I think the unique design of this bed, with features like micro coils and the foam caps on the pocketed coils, contributes to this very balanced feel. ” – Sosha Leiws, senior staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Mattress for Bedsores and Joint Pain
- The Rx gets its name from its intentional design, which features thick, pressure-relieving comfort layers to benefit sleepers with chronic pain concerns, like arthritis.
- The Saatva Rx earned a near-perfect pressure relief rating of 4.8 out of 5.
- For a bed with a softer feel up top, it’s fairly responsive, which should help sleepers move around to prevent pressure sores or buildup in their joints.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 5/5
Our experts did not detect any movement ripple across its surface during testing.
Cooling: 3.5/5
The plush cover layer causes the Saatva Rx to retain more heat than other hybrid model
Response: 4/5
Despite its plush, pressure-relieving foam pillow top, the Rx is easy to move on.
Edge Support: 3.2/5
The soft memory foam layers cause the perimeter of the Rx to sink more than other hybrid beds.
Pressure Relief: 4.8/5
The Saatva Rx is a homerun for anyone with joint pain, thanks to its near-perfect pressure relief.
Firmness: 6.5/10
The Saatva Rx has a medium-firm feel that is suitable for most sleepers.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
“If you’re a back sleeper with any kind of lower-body arthritis, you may love this bed,” Dr. Joe Tedesco said about the Saatva Rx. “My feet don’t roll out when I’m on my back, which means that my back is in good alignment. I feel supported and weightless at the same time, so I think you’ll experience a restful, well-balanced feeling from the lower back down.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | excellent | excellent | good |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | excellent | excellent | good |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | excellent | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
Saatva is a brand name synonymous with luxury and quality, and the Rx is no different. This mattress is built upon a solid innerspring foundation, but it’s the super-soft memory foam layers that steal the show. They earned the bed heaps of praise for pressure relief, an essential for relieving pain and reducing the risk of pressure ulcers.
This mattress also earned a perfect rating for motion isolation, an attractive feature for those who wake easily. But its plush, slow-moving feel poses a problem for edge support. While this is usually no issue with Saatva beds, we noticed quite a lot of sinkage when we put weight on the perimeter.
Choose the Saatva Rx if …
- You like a contouring mattress with a lot of sinkage. Despite its medium-firm feel, our testers felt hugged by the Saatva Rx. You should sink far into this bed but still get enough support from the coil unit.
- You’re a side sleeper with hip or shoulder pain. The Rx’s contouring surface expertly cradles the hips and shoulders, which should help prevent pressure buildup and discomfort for most side sleepers.
Keep looking if …
- You run hot. The Rx’s organic cotton cover feels soft and cozy, but it’s not great for creating a cool surface feel. Our testers could feel the mattress heating up beneath them the longer they lay on it.
- You want a mattress with super-strong edge support. Unsurprisingly, we found that the plush feel of the Rx translated to lackluster edge support. The memory foam layers collapse significantly when you’re seated or laying down at the perimeter, so you may want to steer clear. Or you can check out a bed like the Helix Midnight Luxe, which scored higher in this category.
For more information about this bed, read our full Saatva Rx mattress review.
Nolah Evolution – Best Hybrid Mattress for Bedsores
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, 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:
“There’s enough cushioning for side sleepers to prevent pressure from building at the hips and shoulders. The mattress also scored highly in motion isolation, edge support, cooling, and responsiveness, all of which are important to couples.” – Riley Otis, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Hybrid Mattress for Bedsores
- The Nolah Evolution hybrid contains both soft foams and bouncy coils to create a balance of comfort and support, as well as stellar performances in multiple categories.
- This bed earned a 4.3 out of 5 for its pressure-relieving upper layers and a 4 out of 5 for responsiveness, which should make it easier for sleepers to address or prevent the development of bedsores.
- Among its many accolades, we gave the Nolah Evolution a rare 5-out-of-5 rating for motion isolation.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 5/5
Our tester noticed no movement during our ripple test, resulting in a perfect score for motion isolation.
Cooling: 4.5/5
The Nolah Evolution showed above-average cooling capabilities.
Response: 4/5
Our tester found it fairly easy to roll around on the Nolah Evolution.
Edge Support: 4.6/5
The Nolah Evolution had a strong perimeter, earning a high edge support test.
Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
The bed was good at relieving pressure, though some of our testers wanted more sinkage.
Firmness: 7/10
The springs in the construction made for a slightly firmer feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
“I think people who have back pain could stand to benefit from this mattress,” Dr. Joe Tedesco said about the Nolah Evolution. “You get some great weightlessness and slight posterior tilt as a back sleeper with this mattress, which is ideal for alleviating hip and back pain. In this position, my feet and ankles and hips and knees were aligned, and my pelvis was relaxed, and I didn’t feel any anterior tilt, which is often what creates or exacerbates back pain.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | excellent | excellent | good |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | good | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
The Nolah Evolution is a strong performer across the board, so it’s no surprise that it earned the moniker “best hybrid.” This bed does it all: absorbing motion, keeping you cool, relieving pressure, and even giving a bit of bounce. While it’s great for the majority of the population, sleepers looking to reduce their risk of pressure sores will appreciate it even more.
Back sleepers of any size will enjoy the mid-range Luxury Firm model of the Nolah Evolution, with the softer and firmer iterations good choices for side and back sleepers respectively. Some shoppers may balk at the Evolution’s high price, though our testers would say it’s worth its weight in gold.
Choose the Nolah Evolution if …
- You overheat at night. The Nolah Evolution feels both cozy and cool, thanks to the specialized fibers in its pillow top. It kept temperatures low during our cooling evaluation, earning the mattress a 4.5 out of 5 in this area.
- You’re a light sleeper who’s prone to waking. As mentioned, the Nolah Evolution has some of the best motion isolation we’ve tested. Every little toss and turn should be effectively stifled by this mattress.
Keep looking if …
- You’re a heavyweight side or stomach sleeper. These two categories are the only two that may find fault with the Nolah Evolution’s support. Side sleepers over 230 pounds may experience undue pressure buildup, while those who rest on their stomachs will likely experience hip misalignment.
- You want a cheaper hybrid option. The Nolah Evolution is reasonably priced, but not exactly the most affordable. For folks who want a hybrid that costs less than $1,000, I’d direct their attention toward the DreamCloud mattress.
For more information about this bed, read our full Nolah Evolution mattress review.
Titan Plus Core – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers and Bedsores
The Titan Plus Core mattress is a durable mattress made with heavy sleepers in mind. It’s firm and features heavy-duty coils and Titanflex foam that makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. We think that heavy back sleepers and stomach sleepers should be especially comfortable. For more information on the Titan Plus, check out our video review. Note that the video is for an older model with a slightly different construction.
What our tester says:
“I think the Titan Plus Core lives up to its name as a good mattress for heavier sleepers. It will offer them the support and durability they need.” – Sosha Lewis, senior staff writer and certified sleep science coach.
Why It’s the Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers and Bedsores
- The Titan Plus Core was designed specifically for sleepers over 230 pounds who were dissatisfied with traditional beds; thus, it’s quite literally built to support these folks.
- At 7.5 out of 10 on our scale, this bed has a firmer feel, but it still earned an impressive 4.3 out of 5 rating for pressure relief.
- Its perfect responsiveness score means sleepers can change positions easily to reduce pressure buildup and the risk of bedsores.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.3/5
Our testers were impressed by how the Core dampened motion and prevented it from rippling across the bed’s surface.
Cooling: 4/5
The innerspring coils and GlacioTex cooling cover give this mattress a temperature-regulating edge.
Response: 5/5
The sturdy innerspring coils make the surface of this mattress highly responsive and easy to move around on.
Edge Support: 4/5
We found minimal sinkage near the perimeter of the Titan, meaning it is a good pick for sleepers who rest on the edge.
Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
While most sleepers should experience solid pressure relief, those with sensitive joints may experience some buildup.
Firmness: 7.5/10
The Titan Plus Core’s heavy-duty construction is quite firm compared to most mattresses.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
While Dr. Joe Tedesco noted the Titan Plus Core’s firmer feel almost instantly, he didn’t find it a negative. “Orthopedically, it’s doing what it’s supposed to do,” he said. “I’m not uncomfortable anywhere, and there’s no pressure buildup. It’s firm, bouncy, and responsive.” He noted this could benefit sleepers who need extra support, including those with larger bodies.
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | good | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
Our Expert Opinion
The Titan Plus Core was made for folks over 230 pounds, but that doesn’t mean they’re the only ones who get to enjoy it. Our testers, representing multiple weight categories and preferences, all touted this bed as a well-rounded fit for folks who like firm, bouncy beds. Because it relieves pressure, it can help sleepers who want to avoid developing bedsores.
This bed earned 4s and above across the board, so it’s hard to find a bone to pick with it. I’ll just note again that it’s quite firm, which doesn’t suit some sleepers. If you have sensitive joints or like to sink deeply into your bed, this may not be the one for you.
Choose the Titan Plus Core if …
- You sleep on your stomach. Stomach sleepers, regardless of their weight or size, will enjoy the Titan Plus Core’s lifted, firm feel. It should keep their hips elevated, reducing the risk of low back pain.
- You like a super-bouncy bed. The Titan Plus Core offers virtually no sinkage, so you’ll never feel “stuck” in its surface. This makes it easy for you to move around during sleep, sex, or simply transferring in and out of bed.
Keep looking if …
- You’re looking for a bed with active cooling. While we didn’t overheat on the Titan Plus Core, it didn’t provide much of a super-cool feel. Most hot sleepers should do alright on this bed, but if you like cool-to-the-touch surfaces, check the Bear Elite Hybrid.
- You like a traditional memory foam feel. Though it contains foam layers, the Titan Plus Core doesn’t feel like a foam bed. You won’t get slow-moving, contouring up top — you’ll feel more like you’re floating comfortably on the surface.
For more information about this bed, read our full Titan Plus Core mattress review.
Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Bedsores
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.” – Kenny Timper, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Firm Mattress for Bedsores
- The Plank Firm is a flippable, all-foam bed that boasts two firmnesses in one: a traditional firm side (7 out of 10) and a more robust, extra-firm side (9 out of 10).
- Each side of the Plank Firm earned a perfect responsiveness rating, which means you won’t encounter any resistance when switching positions, a must for those looking to avoid pressure sores.
- Because of its firmer feel, the edges of the Plank Firm are quite sturdy, meaning you can sit and lie down along the perimeter without sinking.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Firm Side
Motion Isolation: 5/5
The memory foam layer closer to the Firm side did a fantastic job of dampening motion.
Cooling: 3.5/5
Our testers found the Firm side initially cool to the touch, but it retained some body heat over time.
Response: 4.5/5
The Firm side is only slightly less responsive than the Extra Firm due to the foam layer.
Edge Support: 3.5/5
The edge support on the Firm side is mostly average; however, you can lie on it with falling off.
Pressure Relief: 4.4/5
The Firm side of the luxe Plank has exceptional pressure relief for back sleepers.
Firmness: 7/10
The Firm side of the Plank is only slightly firmer than the industry average of medium-firm (6.5).
Extra-Firm Side
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Despite being closest to the springy coils, the Extra Firm side has surprisingly solid motion isolation for couples.
Cooling: 3/5
During testing, our team found that the cooling on the Extra Firm side was about average.
Response: 5/5
The Extra Firm side is closest to the innerspring coils, making it is highly responsive to movement and ideal for combination sleepers.
Edge Support: 3.2/5
We found more sinkage on the edge of the Extra Firm side; its performance here was about average.
Pressure Relief: 3.8/5
The Extra Firm side provides less cushioning, meaning some side sleepers may experience pressure buildup.
Firmness: 7.5/10
Most sleepers will find that the Extra Firm side is significantly firmer than most mattresses.
Tester Notes
My colleague and fellow tester Sosha Lewis is an average-weight sleeper, and she quite enjoyed the softer side of the Plank Firm for both back and stomach sleeping. “On my back, it didn’t necessarily fill in the lower gap around my lumbar spine, but the cushioning was enough to make it comfortable,” she said. “The firmness and the soft upper layer made this bed fantastic for stomach sleepers — there was no pinch in my lower back since my spine was straight.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | good | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
Our Expert Opinion
While this article is full of medium-firm to soft beds that cushion and cradle the body, sometimes that doesn’t cut it. Mattresses like the Plank Firm provide the extra support some sleepers need, and when it comes to preventing bedsores, your comfort is equally paramount. Though this bed scored lower in our pressure relief tests, it’s supportive, bouncy, and durable. This allows sleepers to move around and readjust with ease, preventing pressure from building up in any area.
Of course, firm beds aren’t for everyone. While great for stomach sleepers and those of a larger frame, lightweight sleepers or those with pain concerns should look elsewhere.
Choose the Plank Firm if …
- You’re a heavyweight sleeper. Most of this bed’s firmness will be wiped out by a sleeper with a bigger body. They’ll sink in a bit more, and may experience more pressure relief than a lighter sleeper.
- You primarily sleep on your stomach or back. We often recommend firm mattresses for stomach sleepers, but some back sleepers who love a lifted feel can benefit. If you have spinal instability, the Plank Firm can help maintain alignment.
Keep looking if …
- You’re a side sleeper with sensitive joints. While some side sleepers can find comfort on the Plank Firm, we’d caution those with sensitive hips or shoulders to sleep on this mattress. They’ll likely experience more pressure buildup in these areas, which can exacerbate discomfort.
- You’re after a medium-firm mattress, not an extra-firm one. We can’t stress enough just how firm this mattress is. Some of our testers liken it to a specialty bed because of how unyielding it can be. If you’re realizing that’s not your jam, check out a bed closer to medium-firm, like the Aurora Luxe.
For more information about this bed, read our full Plank Firm mattress review.
Latest Updates: In August of 2026, we updated this page with a new best-of list that better reflects re-testing of these beds, including insight from our chief medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco. A few of the old beds made the cut, but you’ll see some new faces, like the DreamCloud, Nectar Premier, and Bear Elite Hybrid, that are sure to deliver the contouring and comfort to keep pressure injuries at bay.
Other Mattresses I Considered
Didn’t find quite what you were after above? Here are some other mattresses we love and recommend for sleepers who want contouring and support:
WinkBed
The WinkBed mattress is a luxury hybrid that features robust support coils and a dense, cushioning pillow top. This could make it the perfect profile for sleepers who want a balanced yet luxurious feel. It also comes in multiple firmness levels, including a Plus variant for those over 230 pounds. While it offers great pressure relief for back sleepers, its poor performance for side sleepers brought down its overall rating in this category. It’s also not the most responsive bed we’ve tested, which may be a concern for those with pressure injuries.
Nectar
The Nectar is the precursor to the Nectar Premier featured on our list above. It’s an affordable all-foam mattress that excels in support, motion isolation, and cooling — the latter being rare for memory foam beds. However, it’s a bit firmer than the Nectar Premier, which resulted in a lower pressure-relief rating. Back sleepers should enjoy it, but those who rest on their side will do better on the Premier.
How We Tested the Best Mattresses for Bedsores
There isn’t a single mattress that’s universally comfortable and perfectly suitable for bed sores. To find what would work for you or your loved one, it’s important to research each potential model and narrow down your options. To help skip a step or two, we’ve compiled a list of important considerations when it comes to picking the best mattresses for bedsores.
Key Testing Categories for Bedsore Prevention
Pressure Relief
Bedsores often develop as a result of pressure buildup (hence their other name: pressure ulcers), so we recommend you prioritize a mattress that offers outstanding pressure relief, neutral spinal alignment, and good support in your hips, shoulders, back, and neck.
We test for pressure relief using a pressure map that identifies pressure points and the level of release in the bed. We roll the mat across the bed, and our testers move in each sleeping position. Blue and green mean that the bed offers great relief, whereas yellow and red mean that the area is not supported enough and that the sleeper will likely eventually feel pain in that area.
Back and side sleeping each get a rating out of 5 from each of our testers, which are then averaged into our total overall score. Our average overall pressure relief rating is about 3.8, based on a 3.5 out of 5 for side sleeping and a 4 out of 5 for back sleeping. All of these beds scored well above this average, indicating their excellent ability to relieve pressure. The only exception is the Plank Firm, which earned a lower score because of its extra-firm, supportive feel.
How the Best Mattresses for Bedsore Prevention Scored in Pressure Relief
| Mattress | Pressure Relief Score |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | 4.2 |
| Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | 4.5 |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe | 4.5 |
| DreamCloud | 4.4 |
| Nectar Premier | 4.2 |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | 4.1 |
| Saatva Rx | 4.8 |
| Nolah Evolution | 4.3 |
| Titan Plus Core | 4.3 |
| Plank Firm | 2.7 |
Responsiveness
A responsive mattress is easy to move around on, which is key for ensuring you or your patient doesn’t develop bedsores. Moving positions ensures pressure is evenly distributed across the body.
When we test responsiveness, we switch between sleeping positions on the mattress surface and assess how seamless it feels. If we feel “stuck” in the bed as we try to move, it’s a sign of low responsiveness. A bouncy bed or one with a surface that springs back into shape is responsive.
Out of all the beds we’ve tested, most fall around our average responsiveness score of 4 out of 5. Most of the beds on this list fall at or around this number. The main exceptions are those made entirely of foam or with a softer feel, as these create a slow-moving surface.
How the Best Mattresses for Bedsore Prevention Scored in Responsiveness
Durability
A durable mattress retains its shape over time despite repeated use. If your bed starts to develop indents or valleys, you might sink deeper into them, which can cause pressure buildup and therefore, pressure sores.
For durability, we consider a bed’s construction, its warranty, and its edge support. Durable construction features high-quality materials such as thick foam or latex layers and a high coil count. A lengthy warranty shows the manufacturer is confident that the bed could last a long time.
Edge support means the perimeter of the mattress doesn’t sag when bearing weight. We see this as a sign that the rest of the mattress shouldn’t buckle or collapse. As a bonus, strong edges can also aid folks with mobility concerns to transfer in and out of bed.
We test edge support by lying or sitting on the edge of the bed and judging the amount of sinkage we feel. Then, we rate our stability out of 5. Our average edge support score for the myriad of beds we’ve tested is 4 out of 5. Most beds with coils easily exceed this number. However, many foam beds, or those with softer top layers, can result in lower edge support scores. But rest assured, we wouldn’t recommend a bed we don’t think will last for years and years to come.
How the Best Mattresses for Bedsore Prevention Scored in Edge Support
| Mattress | Edge Support Score |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | 4.8 |
| Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | 3.9 |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe | 4 |
| DreamCloud | 4 |
| Nectar Premier | 3.6 |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | 4.4 |
| Saatva Rx | 3.2 |
| Nolah Evolution | 4.6 |
| Titan Plus Core | 4 |
| Plank Firm | 4.1 |
Other Tests
A lot goes into a new mattress, and once you’ve ticked all the boxes above, you may still be unsure whether a mattress is right for you. It’s important to ensure the bed’s firmness is right for your sleeping position and body type, but you may also want to consider other preferences, including your partner’s, if you share the bed.
For one, a cooling mattress should help folks avoid additional discomfort that comes with staying on a bed for a long period. These beds scored at least a 4 out of 5 in our temperature regulation tests. Couples may be interested in a mattress with a high motion isolation score; this means they won’t feel any movement travel across the bed’s surface, a must-have for light sleepers who want undisturbed rest.
Make sure you’ve considered your bed from every angle. Our testers are thorough in their ratings, judging everything from construction to customer satisfaction, so you’ll get a holistic view of what a mattress can provide.
What Are Bedsores?
Bedsores (also known as pressure sores or pressure ulcers) are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue that occur when blood flow to the affected area is reduced for a prolonged period. Pressure tends to build most at bony areas, and therefore bony parts of the body are more susceptible to bedsores. At their earliest stages, bedsores don’t involve a breakage of the skin, but they can develop into a deeper wound that may reach the muscles and/or bones.
The National Library of Medicine states that there are four stages of bedsores, with stage 1 being the least problematic and stage 4 being the most extreme. Regardless of a bedsore’s stage, it should be treated as soon as possible. Bedsores left untreated can lead to infection, and if bad enough, they can be fatal.
What Causes Bedsores?
While common in the elderly population, bedsores can happen to just about anyone. People who are immobile for long periods — whether it’s because they’re on bed rest or are recovering after surgery — are more likely to develop bedsores. This is because these folks have a higher chance of staying in a position for so long that the pressure cuts off circulation to bony areas, resulting in these ulcers.
How Do Bedsores Affect Sleep?
One of the simplest ways to picture the connection between pain and sleep is as a cycle. Pain, such as that resulting from bedsores, can make it harder to fall asleep. The lack of sleep that comes from pain issues further worsens already existing pain, and the cycle goes on.
If you’re sleeping on an unsuitable mattress, it increases the likelihood of developing pressure ulcers. For those who already have bedsores, it’s also more likely that the mattress turns already existing wounds into a higher-category pressure ulcer.
How Do You Prevent Bedsores?
Once bedsores develop, it’s important to take immediate action to heal them. Once severe, bedsores can take months and at times years to go away completely. To prevent them from even surfacing in the first place, here’s a list of preventative measures you can take:
- Reposition. Turn your body or have someone help you redistribute your weight frequently (at least every couple of hours).
- Cushioning. If you feel too much pressure under certain parts of your body, add or request additional cushioning. Perhaps you need a pad beneath your seat, or a small pillow to lift your heels.
- Care for your skin. Ensure your skin stays hydrated and healthy through proper hygiene and good nutrition. Dry or moist skin is more prone to breakage and the development of bedsores.
What is the Best Mattress for Bedsores?
We believe the best mattress for bedsores has excellent pressure relief for all sleeping positions, is supportive to relieve pain, and is responsive enough to give you the freedom to change positions and move around. Our top pick is the Helix Midnight Luxe, though the best fit for your needs may be another mattress on our list that’s better suited to your unique tastes.
Does Rotating Your Mattress Help with Bedsores?
Yes, absolutely! Rotating your mattress can help increase the longevity of your mattress as well as decrease the speed of sagging in certain areas, thus helping with bedsores. We recommend rotating your mattress every 6 months for the best sleep. It should help even out the pressure buildup throughout the bed.
Can An Air Mattress Prevent Bedsores?
We don’t recommend using an air mattress, like the ones folks take camping. However, some Alternating Pressure Mattresses (or APMs) use air chambers to vary the pressure and firmness throughout the bed, which is highly beneficial for preventing bedsores. Since our list focuses on traditional mattresses, not APMs or air mattresses, we focused on beds that offer a high degree of pressure relief.
What Do Doctors Recommend for Bedsores?
Sleep science expert and pulmonologist Dr. Raj Dasgupta recommends Alternating Pressure Mattresses (APMs). “They offer several advantages, including their effectiveness in preventing pressure ulcers, reducing the risk of friction and shearing forces, and improving circulation, which helps lower the risk of skin breakdown,” he explains. “However, they tend to be pricier than traditional foam mattresses and may be less comfortable for some people.”
He advocates that some traditional mattresses can help with pressure sores, and they’re more affordable, accessible, and accommodating for multiple sleeper types. “But they’re not as effective at preventing pressure ulcers as APMs,” he adds. “They may contribute to friction and shearing forces, which can increase the risk of developing pressure ulcers over time.”
References
- Zaidi, S. R. H., & Sharma, S. (2024). Pressure Ulcer. National Library of Medicine. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553107/
- Mervis, J. S., & Phillips, T. J. (2019). Pressure ulcers: Pathophysiology, epidemiology, Risk factors, and Presentation. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 81(4), 881–890. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2018.12.069
- Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2019). Bedsores. In Johns Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/bedsores