Written by Lauren Hapgood, Performance Staff Writer
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 it susceptible to a loss of circulation overtime.
Often, those who have bedsores are already struggling with other conditions. Since bedsores occur from long periods of immobility, those who struggle with them are typically patients on bedrest and those recovering from a major surgery.
The pain that comes from bedsores may not go away from the right mattress, but we do believe that this roundup of the best mattresses to prevent bedsores can help. In this article, we break down our favorite pressure-relieving mattresses. Beneath these beds is a curated buying guide that should provide you with everything you need to know about picking out the right bed.
Our Top Pick for the Best Mattress for Preventing Bedsores
The Puffy Lux Hybrid earned the top spot on this roundup because it combines the three most important elements in a mattress for preventing bedsores: responsivess, support, and most importantly, pressure relief.
Best Mattresses for Preventing Bedsores
- Puffy Lux Hybrid – Best Overall Mattress
- Saatva Solaire – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
- Titan Plus Mattress – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
- WinkBed – Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Nectar – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite – Best Luxury Mattress
Comparing the Best Mattresses for Preventing Bedsores
Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress
Saatva Solaire Mattress
Titan Plus
WinkBed Mattress
Nectar Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress
Rating
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Multiple firmness options
Firm: 7.5/10
Multiple firmness options
Soft: 6/10
Soft: 5/10
Material
Hybrid
Other
Hybrid
Hybrid
Foam
Hybrid
Cooling
✓
✓
--
✓
--
✓
Sleep Position
Back & Side
Combination
Back & Stomach
Combination
Back & Side
Side
Puffy Lux Hybrid – Best Overall
The Puffy Lux Hybrid mattress is a soft model combining foam layers and individually pocketed coils for a cushioned feel with some bounce. It provides great pressure relief, making it a nice fit for side, back, or side-back combo sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Puffy Lux Hybrid mattress is a soft model combining foam layers and individually pocketed coils for a cushioned feel with some bounce. It provides great pressure relief, making it a nice fit for side, back, or side-back combo sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Puffy Lux Hybrid mattress is a soft model combining foam layers and individually pocketed coils for a cushioned feel with some bounce. It provides great pressure relief, making it a nice fit for side, back, or side-back combo sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
101 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
101 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
101 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
The key to a good mattress for bedsores is plenty of pressure relief. Remaining in the same position overtime can cause a buildup of pressure at the joints. Those in the same position for too long, especially on a firmer surface, can develop pressure ulcers. A pressure-relieving mattress utilizes softer foams to prevent pressure buildup.
The Puffy Lux Hybrid should absolutely deliver in this category. We put this mattress through our pressure map test, wherein we spread a mat across the mattress. This mat uses our body temperature to track areas of high, moderate, and low pressure. High pressure is indicated by the colors red and orange, moderate pressure shows yellow, and lower pressure uses green and blue. While lying on our back, side, and stomach, we found low pressure in all sleeping positions. This indicates that in these positions, folks with bedsores should find some extra cushioning and relief with the Puffy Lux Hybrid.
What Our Tester Says: “I really appreciate the balance of pressure relief and bounce this mattress offers. The Lux Hybrid is also fairly responsive thanks to the pocketed innerspring coils beneath the foam layers, which allow you to switch sleeping positions without feeling “stuck” in the mattress.” – Logan Block, former content director
What Customers Say
There are over 12,000 reviews on the Puffy site for this mattress. Many of them mention how the Puffy Lux Hybrid shipped fast and is overall a great mattress for the price.
Pros of the Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress
- The Puffy Lux Hybrid includes a pocketed coil layer that provides support and results in a more responsive feel. This should make it easier for those with bedsores to change positions. They shouldn’t sink too far into this mattress.
- The two separate memory foam layers are designed for pressure relief, but also breathability.
- We recommend this mattress for back sleepers and side sleepers under 250 pounds, as the medium-firm hybrid construction strikes a balance between comfort and support.
Cons of the Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress
- This bed won’t be supportive enough for people over 250 pounds, and it won’t be firm enough for stomach sleepers.
Want more information on the Puffy Lux Hybrid? Click here for our best deal. You can also head on over to our full Puffy Lux Hybrid mattress review or see our roundup for the best mattresses.
Saatva Solaire – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
If you’ve had trouble finding the exact level of firmness you need in a mattress, you might like the Saatva Solaire. This high-tech air bed allows you to choose your preferred firmness level.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. If you’ve had trouble finding the exact level of firmness you need in a mattress, you might like the Saatva Solaire. This high-tech air bed allows you to choose your preferred firmness level.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. If you’ve had trouble finding the exact level of firmness you need in a mattress, you might like the Saatva Solaire. This high-tech air bed allows you to choose your preferred firmness level.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Saatva Solaire Mattress
Material
Other
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Saatva Solaire Mattress
Material
Other
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Saatva Solaire Mattress
Material
Other
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
Heavier sleepers with bedsores are going to need a bed that’s supportive enough for their bodyweight, but also soft enough to cushion pressure points, such as the hips or shoulder blades. The Saatva Solaire is our top pick in this category. Unlike the other mattresses on this roundup, the Saatva Solaire is an airbed (no, not an air mattress) that uses air chambers to increase or decrease the mattress firmness. There are 50 different firmness settings on the Saatva Solaire, so folks struggling with pressure ulcers can fine-tune their comfort like never before.
Our pressure map test revealed that the Saatva Solaire’s adjustable firmness made it easy for us to find the right comfort level for all sleeping positions. We think a lot of average weight sleepers would find a comfort somewhere around 20. However, heavier sleepers might need to go a bit higher. In any case, we believe this to be a magnificent option for back pain, joint pain, and consequently, bedsores.
What Our Tester Says: “My favorite thing about the Solaire is how customizable it is. Almost any sleeper should be able to find a firmness setting that works for them. And couples might especially appreciate the Solaire’s customizability, breathability, and low motion transfer.” – Logan Block, former content director
What Customers Say
Shoppers appreciate that Saatva offers White Glove Delivery, and we think this should be useful to anyone struggling with mobility or bedsores as well. White Glove Delivery means that Saatva will set up your new mattress and help dispose of your old one.
Pros of the Saatva Solaire Mattress
- Sleepers of all body types and sleeping preferences should enjoy the Saatva Solaire, as the airbed technology can adjust to virtually any firmness level.
- The latex layer inside the Saatva Solaire is naturally cooling and should help keep hot sleepers’ temperature at bay.
- Couples who sleep with different firmnesses should like how queen sizes or larger are offered in split sizes.
Cons of the Saatva Solaire Mattress
- While the Saatva Solaire is a high-tech and quality mattress, it does come at a price. Budget shoppers will want other options, and for some solid choices, we recommend checking out our roundup for the best mattresses for the money.
Interested in the Saatva Solaire? Click here for our best deal. You can also check out our full Saatva Solaire mattress review or see our roundup for the best mattresses for heavy sleepers.
Titan Plus – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
The Titan Firm Hybrid from Brooklyn Bedding is a durable mattress featuring 6-inch heavy-duty support coils, making it a great option for heavier sleepers. This mattress also has a Titanflex foam comfort layer, which provides nice lift and bounce for heavier weights.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Titan Firm Hybrid from Brooklyn Bedding is a durable mattress featuring 6-inch heavy-duty support coils, making it a great option for heavier sleepers. This mattress also has a Titanflex foam comfort layer, which provides nice lift and bounce for heavier weights.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Titan Firm Hybrid from Brooklyn Bedding is a durable mattress featuring 6-inch heavy-duty support coils, making it a great option for heavier sleepers. This mattress also has a Titanflex foam comfort layer, which provides nice lift and bounce for heavier weights.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
An ideal mattress for back sleeping has enough cushioning to prevent excessive pressure buildup at the hips and shoulder blades. It also has enough support to keep the hips and the rest of the body lifted and in proper alignment. A fantastic example of this is the Titan Plus, a hybrid mattress that uses plush foams and sturdy coils to achieve the appropriate ratio of comfort and support.
Time and time again, pressure relief is a theme when we talk about bedsores. For our pressure map test, the Titan Plus evenly distributed our weight, so we didn’t see much pressure buildup at our hips while back sleeping. This means that the Titan Plus should do a good job of preventing bedsores in this position. While this is a firmer mattress (7.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale), the Titan Plus should be a nice fit for average weight to heavyweight back sleepers.
What Our Tester Says: The materials under the Titan Plus’ hood are sturdy and durable. You get just the right amount of cozy mobility on top, but the theme here is support. Heavier people with back pain will likely enjoy the lower body alignment the Titan Plus provides.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
A lot of customers say they’re so comfortable with the Titan Plus because of its high level of durability and support. They don’t feel like the foam sinks too far beneath them.
Pros of the Titan Plus Mattress
- The Titan Plus tested well in motion isolation, meaning partners shouldn’t feel each other moving around much at night. We think it’s a good option for many couples.
- Given this mattress’s higher firmness level and high level of support, this should be a great mattress for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
- The Titan Plus has strong edge support, meaning it has a strong perimeter that doesn’t collapse much when we lie down or sit down on it. A mattress with solid edge support is important for those wanting to make most of the mattress surface, as well as those who like to rest close to the edge of the bed.
Cons of the Titan Plus Mattress
- Lightweight sleepers will probably find the Titan Plus to be far too firm. We think a bed like this will only worsen pressure points for these folks.
Want to learn more about this mattress? Click here for our best deal. You can also take a look at our full Titan Plus review or see our roundup of the best mattresses for back sleepers.
WinkBed – Best for Stomach Sleepers
The WinkBed is a hybrid mattress that comes in three firmness levels, so most sleepers should find a model that suits their needs. It could also be a good fit for couples, thanks to reinforced edge support.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The WinkBed is a hybrid mattress that comes in three firmness levels, so most sleepers should find a model that suits their needs. It could also be a good fit for couples, thanks to reinforced edge support.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The WinkBed is a hybrid mattress that comes in three firmness levels, so most sleepers should find a model that suits their needs. It could also be a good fit for couples, thanks to reinforced edge support.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
Stomach sleepers require a lot of support and a much higher firmness than back and side sleepers, but those avoiding bedsores still need some pressure relief. Luckily, the WinkBed has three different firmnesses, and we believe the Firm version to be the best option for stomach sleepers because of the support it provides.
The WinkBed uses individually wrapped coils in combination with soft, pressure-relieving foam. This creates a mattress that provides comfort and support in a suitable ratio for the prone position. While testing the Luxury Firm option, we found some impressive results for edge support and an overall responsive feel that should only increase with the Firm version.
What Our Tester Says: “One of my favorite things about the WinkBed is its durability. This is a high-quality mattress that should really stand the test of time. This is great news for any sleeper, but especially nice for heavy people and couples.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
Different customers have tried out different firmness versions of this mattress, but a general agreement is that the WinkBed is a solid choice for back pain.
Pros of the WinkBed Mattress
- The WinkBed is also offered in a Plus version designed for heavier sleepers.
- This mattress’s Tencel cover, gel-infused comfort foam, and breathable coils make it a great option for hot sleepers.
- Those who like to switch from back sleeping to stomach sleeping and vice versa might find enough support on the Luxury Firm version. The good news is that WinkBeds has a 120-night trial, allowing folks to test out this mattress before fully committing.
Cons of the WinkBed Mattress
- At $1,799 for a queen size, the WinkBed isn’t the cheapest mattress on the market. However, there are plenty of coupons and many discounts around the holidays that take the overall price down a notch or two.
Need additional information? Click here for our best deal. You can also hop over to our full WinkBed mattress review or check out our roundup of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.
Nectar – Best for Side Sleepers
The original Nectar mattress is a pressure-relieving, yet supportive, bed. It’s made with a thick layer of gel memory foam, which allows the sleeper to really sink into its surface.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The original Nectar mattress is a pressure-relieving, yet supportive, bed. It’s made with a thick layer of gel memory foam, which allows the sleeper to really sink into its surface.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The original Nectar mattress is a pressure-relieving, yet supportive, bed. It’s made with a thick layer of gel memory foam, which allows the sleeper to really sink into its surface.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
Side sleepers are in one of the most difficult situations when it comes to preventing bedsores, as this sleeping position places a lot of pressure on the hips and shoulders. We think that the Nectar does a great job at alleviating this pressure. It’s an all-foam mattress that utilizes three different layers of foams to create a sinking memory foam feel. Its higher-density layer at the bottom helps keep the sleeper supported.
The pressure map test went well for the Nectar, as we saw mostly green and blue in the back and side sleeping positions. While we did see a touch of yellow at the shoulder and hip, this is no surprise, as these areas gather the most pressure. Still, we believe this mattress will help prevent bedsores in both positions.
What Our Tester Says: “I think the Nectar has a great classic memory foam feel. If you love deep sinkage and contouring, this is the mattress for you. I especially like this feel for back and side sleepers, who should find their pressure points cushioned, and spines supported.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
The Nectar has an impressive 57,000+ reviews on its page, but a great number of them mention how this mattress helped with their back pain and/or joint pain.
Pros of the Nectar Mattress
- The medium soft feel should suit lightweight and average weight back sleepers as well.
- The Nectar is one of the best cheap mattresses.
- Lightweight stomach sleepers wanting extra pressure relief at the hips should be comfortable on the Nectar.
Cons of the Nectar Mattress
- This bed isn’t firm enough nor supportive enough for heavyweight sleepers, along with stomach sleepers over 130 pounds.
Need a bit more info? Click here for our best deal. You can also check out our full Nectar mattress review or see our roundup of the best mattresses for side sleepers.
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite – Best Luxury
The Brooklyn Bedding Sedona is a soft, hybrid mattress that does an excellent job at relieving shoulder and hip pain. This mattress is a great choice for side sleepers because of how well it sinks in to provide pressure relief.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Brooklyn Bedding Sedona is a soft, hybrid mattress that does an excellent job at relieving shoulder and hip pain. This mattress is a great choice for side sleepers because of how well it sinks in to provide pressure relief.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Brooklyn Bedding Sedona is a soft, hybrid mattress that does an excellent job at relieving shoulder and hip pain. This mattress is a great choice for side sleepers because of how well it sinks in to provide pressure relief.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Soft: 5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
Luxury beds are often equipped with special features such as cooling technology, or added comfort layers. They go well beyond the most basic form of a mattress. The best luxury mattresses are also known for their next-level comfort and top-tier support. With this in mind, luxury mattresses prioritizing pressure relief should generally be great options for bedsores. The Brooklyn Sedona Elite is an example of such a choice.
On our pressure map test, the Brooklyn Sedona Elite had some stellar results — almost entirely blue in both the side sleeping and back sleeping positions. All this pressure relief is thanks to the combination of the foam cover and double memory foam comfort layer. Still, folks should feel supported by the sturdy pocketed coils.
What Our Tester Says: “The foam layers provide a soft, almost quilted top portion, where you sink into the bed a little bit, but don’t get stuck. The individually wrapped coils add some nice support for the body, too. Definitely consider this model if you suffer from shoulder pain.” – Logan Block, former content director
What Customers Say
With 4.8 out of 5 stars on the company website, Brooklyn Bedding customers who sleep on their sides — even those with joint pain — find lots of comfort on this bed.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress
- Couples shouldn’t wake each other up in the middle of the night because of this bed’s excellent motion isolation.
- The gel-infused cooling foams and the coils, which provide room for airflow, should make this a good option for those who overheat at night.
- Lightweight and average weight back and side sleepers should feel extremely comfortable on the Sedona Elite.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress
- This bed is not a good option for heavier sleepers or stomach sleepers.
Want to learn more? Click here for our best deal. You can also see our full Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite review or look at our roundup of the best luxury mattresses.
What Are Bedsores?
Bedsores (also known as pressure sores or pressure ulcers) are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue that occur when blood is unable to travel to the affected area for a prolonged period of time. Pressure tends to build most at bonier 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 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. (1)
Bedsore Causes
While common in the elderly population, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society says bedsores can happen to just about anyone. People who are immobile for long periods— whether it’s because they’re on bedrest 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. (2)
How Bedsores Affects Sleep
One of the simplest, most elementary ways to picture the connection between pain and sleep is as a cycle. Pain, such as pain 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.
Bedsore Prevention
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 from Johns Hopkins Medicine: (3)
- 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 that your skin remains hydrated and healthy through cleanliness and good nutrition. Dry or moist skin is more prone to breakage and the development of bedsores.
What Makes a Good Mattress for Bedsores?
The cyclic nature of pain and sleep is precisely why it’s paramount to factor in pressure relief when selecting a mattress that prevents bedsores. If a mattress is pressure relieving, it’s capable of helping ease pressure off of sensitive areas. This is typically thanks to soft foams that contour and cradle the body. A firmer mattress is less likely to be pressure relieving, and more likely to contribute to the cutoff of blood supply that those with bedsores experience when lying in the same position for a prolonged period.
While you do want to make sure a mattress is pressure relieving, it should also be supportive. It’s important to keep in mind that firmness and support are not the same. A mattress for preventing bedsores should be supportive, but not overly firm. This is crucial for spinal health and overall comfort. Moreover, when the spine is properly supported and aligned, there’s far less strain on the back.
Finally, the best mattresses for bedsores don’t restrict movement. Since pressure ulcers are often a result from 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. The best mattresses for ease of movement are responsive. Frequent movement helps redistribute the pressure between the body and the mattress, reducing tension from the affected body parts and lowering the risk of damaging the tissue.
What Mattress Type Is Best for Bedsores?
There are a number of different mattress constructions on the market. However, many of these models are going to be far too firm or not nearly supportive enough for those with bedsores. Read below for our walkthrough on the most common mattress materials and constructions so you know which mattress type is best for you.
Memory Foam
As pressure-relieving beds are crucial for preventing bedsores, memory foam mattresses are some of the best options. Historically, memory foam is known for its traditional slow-moving feel and contouring abilities. The foam is able to mold to the curves of the sleeper, hug the pressure points, distribute the weight evenly, and reduce tension.
That said, a lot of memory foam is slower to return to its normal shape after compressing. The material is also more prone to sagging. That’s why it’s so important to keep an eye out for memory foam mattresses that are still responsive enough to provide ease of movement, and supportive enough to keep sleepers’ spines in neutral alignment. We recommend looking for memory foam beds with bouncy transition foams and high-density foam foundations.
One last thing to note about memory foam is that it tends to trap heat. While memory foam does have the reputation of sleeping hot, modern foam mattresses are sometimes equipped with cooling technology. We recommend searching for open-celled (or ventilated) foams, or materials with cooling gel infusions.
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses are known for their sturdy coils at the base of the mattress, which provides their responsive and supportive feel. However, because these mattresses have such a thin comfort layer, we do not recommend them for preventing bedsores.
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses provide the best of both worlds: lots of pressure relief and plenty of sturdy support. Your own research is needed to determine what’s best, as there are a number of different ways to combine supportive coils and cushioning foams.
When thinking about preventing bedsores, pick a hybrid that has thick comfort layers made with foam, latex, or both. They have to be thick enough to allow for a decent hug and prevent the protruding parts of your body from reaching the sturdy coil core of the mattress.
There are also plenty of responsive and cooling hybrid options available, which adds even more comfort.
Latex
Whereas foam mattresses often envelop the sleeper’s body and create a quicksand sensation, latex springs back faster. This makes latex more naturally responsive and prevents sleepers from feeling trapped. When using one of the best latex mattresses, you’re likely to feel that you’re sleeping “on” your bed rather than “in” it. But don’t mistake high responsiveness for low pressure relief.
Latex foam is one of the most contouring materials in the bedding industry. So, it’s still great for pressure relief. This material is also naturally cooling — a boon for hot sleepers. One possible drawback is that latex mattresses can be a bit expensive, since the quality is so high.
Airbed
An airbed (not an air mattress) is another suitable option, especially if it’s a special alternating-pressure mattress. Airbeds utilize air chambers to make a mattress firmer or softer, and it does so in a manner that allows folks to really fine-tune their comfort. That said, these beds are often expensive, but these mattresses might be some of the best for preventing bedsores.
How to Pick the Best Mattress for Bedsores
There isn’t one universally comfortable and perfectly suitable mattress 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.
Materials
Again, you’ll want to consider a mattress construction that’s pressure relieving enough to soothe sensitive areas, supportive enough to maintain spinal alignment, and responsive enough for ease of mobility. Ensure you purchase the best quality materials for your budget, as better materials last longer. Cooling mattress constructions should help folks avoid additional discomfort that comes with staying on a bed for a long period.
Firmness
The best mattress for pressure ulcers also has to work with your body weight and sleeping position. You’ll become more familiar with what firmness you’ll need once you understand a bit more how mattress firmness correlates with your sleeping preferences.
One crucial thing to note: an overly soft or an overly stiff bed could either throw your spine out of alignment or worsen existing pressure. Heavier sleepers will need a firmer, more supportive mattress compared to lightweight sleepers. After all, heavier sleepers compress through more of the mattress layers, and require a strong construction to maintain spinal alignment.
You should also select mattress firmness based on your sleeping position. If you spend most of the time lying on your back, you probably need a medium-firm mattress. If you find it more comfortable lying on your side, choose a soft or soft-to-medium bed. And if you can sleep on your stomach (and find it the most comfortable), you might want to pick a firm mattress that would support your body and prevent the unwanted curves in the spine.
For more information, take a look at our official Mattress Firmness Guide.
Edge Support
Edge support is the strength of a mattress’s perimeter. More supportive mattress edges allow sleepers to maximize the mattress surface. It also lets sleepers rest near the edge of the mattress while still feeling secure.
If you have some minor mobility issues, it may be easier for you to get up if you press your arms into the mattress. For that, you’ll need a mattress with strong edges. Hybrid beds usually offer better edge support than foam and latex models.
Bed Frame Compatibility
Some conditions require people to sleep in a reclined position. In this case, an adjustable bed frame is needed. Memory foam and latex mattresses are usually compatible with adjustable bed frames. As for hybrid models, they have to use individually wrapped coils to work with this type of frame.
To find out whether a mattress is compatible with the best bed frames, check the company website, or contact the manufacturer.
Price
Most quality mattresses cost between $800–$1,800. If you go a lot lower, you risk purchasing a low-quality option. On the other side of the coin, expensive mattresses might not do much more than a moderately-priced bed.
Foam mattresses are generally the cheapest, with hybrid, latex, and airbeds running on the pricier side. Keep in mind that many mattress companies offer financing to their customers, so there’s often a way to get a new bed without putting too much stress on your wallet.
It’s worth noting that many mattress companies have discounts going on year round, but especially around the following holidays:
- President’s Day (February)
- Memorial Day (May)
- Labor Day (September)
- Cyber 5 (November)
- Christmas (December)
We also offer a number of deals on our Sleepopolis coupons page.
Sleep Trial and Warranty
An extended sleep trial will give you a chance to test your new bed and figure out whether it’s suited for you or not. Typically, manufacturers offer around 100 days, but some can allow shoppers to test the mattress for up to a whole year.
Mattress warranties are helpful when it comes to customer protection. Each company’s warranty is different— that’s why we recommend reading the fine print —but typically, warranties protect the customer from damages upon delivery or mattress defects.
Conclusion
Ensuring that you or a loved one stays bedsore-free is stressful enough. We hope our guide on the best mattresses for preventing bedsores helps you in your journey. If nothing else, just remember to pay close attention to mattresses that are pressure relieving and still provide enough support to hold you through the night. Good luck on your journey to finding the best mattress for you.
Related
FAQ
What is the best mattress for bedsores?
We believe the best mattress for bedsores is the Puffy Lux Hybrid. It has the pressure relief to ease tension off of joints, but also the support to keep the spine aligned.
How can bedridden patients prevent pressure ulcers?
To prevent bed sores, a patient should sleep on a pressure-relieving mattress. They should also be repositioned at least every couple of hours.
Can an air mattress prevent bed sores?
We don’t recommend using an air mattress, like the ones folks take camping. We suggest an airbed instead, a high-tech mattress that uses air chambers to pinpoint firmness.
Is memory foam good for bed sores?
Yes, memory foam is good for bedsores. It’s able to reduce pressure points in one’s body and can help with tension redistribution.
How often should I change my position to prevent bed sores?
It is recommended to turn every two hours, if possible. Some people may need an extra hand or two to help them shift this often, especially if they’re struggling with mobility issues.
How We Chose These Mattresses
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has reviewed more than 220 products in Sleepopolis’ mattress lab, running each one through tests such as pressure-mapping and measuring motion transfer with a seismometer. From there, we give every bed an overall score based on materials, comfort, support, cooling, and edge support. We also factor in brand performance with categories such as value and warranty.
For the mattresses on this page, we made sure they had the pressure relief to prevent and ease bedsores of varying severities. We also picked beds with sufficient support to maintain spinal alignment and lift the body in the right places. Many of these top picks are responsive, so it should be easy for folks with bedsores to shift sleeping positions (or have someone help them). Click here to learn more about our methodology.
Best Mattresses for Preventing Bedsores 2023
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen Size) | Coupon | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Puffy Lux Hybrid | Overall | $2,849 | Puffy Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Saatva Solaire | Heavy Sleepers | $1,995 | Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Titan Plus by Brooklyn Bedding | Back Sleepers | $1,249 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| WinkBed | Stomach Sleepers | $1,799 | WinkBed Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nectar | Side Sleepers | $1,049 | Nectar Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite | Luxury | $2,399 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
Lauren Hapgood
Sources
1. Zaidi SRH, Sharma S. Pressure ulcer. National Library of Medicine. August 9, 2022. Accessed September 12, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553107/.
2. Pressure sores. National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Accessed September 12, 2023. https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Resources-Support/Living-with-Advanced-MS/Pressure-Sores.
3. Bedsores. Johns Hopkins Medicine. August 8, 2021. Accessed September 12, 2023. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/bedsores.