Some of us may sleep on our stomachs periodically, but those who do so for the majority of the night are a rare breed, with some research suggesting only 16 percent of people stomach sleep on a daily basis. Physical therapist and Sleepopolis Expert Network member Dr. Keith Poorbaugh tells us that the position can also be tricky when it comes to your health, and stomach sleepers may experience increased neck, back, shoulder, and hip pain. This is why it is so important for stomach sleepers to find the right mattress, and our Sleepopolis experts have tested over 300 mattresses and products to help these folks find the best mattress for stomach sleepers.
While selecting these mattresses, we performed tests on every single one to determine its quality of execution in areas such as support, cooling, pain relief, and more. For stomach sleepers, we paid special attention to support, since these folks need the firmest and most supportive beds that encourage a healthy spinal alignment. Something that’s too soft or ends up losing its shape in the middle of the night could throw the spine out of alignment.
Our Top Pick For Stomach Sleepers
The Helix Dawn is our top pick for stomach sleepers because of its ability to provide both support and comfort. It keeps the hips from sinking too far into the mattress (which can cause back pain), yet is still soft and cozy.
Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers of 2024
- Helix Dawn – Best Overall Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Saatva – Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers with Back Pain
- Winkbeds Original – Best Hybrid Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Emma Hybrid Comfort – Best Mattress for Couples
- Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Soft Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Nolah Evolution – Best Cooling Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Lightweight Stomach Sleepers
Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers Video
Compare the Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers
Helix Dawn Mattress
Saatva Mattress
WinkBed Mattress
Emma Hybrid Comfort
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Rating
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Multiple firmness options
Firm: 7/10
Firm: 7.5/10
Multiple firmness options
Multiple firmness options
Multiple firmness options
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Material
Hybrid
Innerspring
Hybrid
Hybrid
Foam
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Cooling
--
✓
✓
✓
--
✓
--
--
Sleep Position
Back & Stomach
Back & Stomach
Combination
Back & Stomach
Back & Stomach
Back & Stomach
Back & Side
Back
What We Look For In the Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers
Firmness
Our testers consider a medium-firm mattress to be a 6.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. For stomach sleepers, a firm mattress is typically the best choice, preferably somewhere between 7 out of 10 and 9 out of 10. These mattresses are sturdy enough to prevent the hips from sinking, which can cause lower back pain.
Spinal Alignment
Without proper spinal alignment, which occurs when the line from your shoulders to hips is crooked, you can wake up with aches and pains. Our testers pay special attention to this when finding the best beds for stomach sleepers. We search for mattresses that are firm enough to keep the hips lifted, as sinking hips can cause the lower spine to fall out of alignment.
Pressure Relief
Although a firm mattress is best for promoting proper spinal alignment in stomach sleepers, our experts prioritize a balance between support and pressure relief. Beds with zero sinkage can cause pressure to build up at stomach sleepers’ hips. We’ve found that an innerspring mattress with sturdy interior layers and cozy top sections can provide both stability and comfort.
Helix Dawn – Best Overall Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
The Helix Dawn is one of the firmest mattresses offered by the company. Its construction provides good comfort for heavy people and stomach sleepers, both of whom need extra support to keep from sinking uncomfortably below the mattress surface. Like the other Helix mattresses, it can be upgraded to the Luxe version if you’re willing to pay a little extra for luxury features. To learn more, check out our video on Helix mattresses.
What our tester says:
“I really appreciate how supportive these mattresses are. Stomach sleepers, back sleepers, and heavy people (those over 250 pounds) could all benefit from the firm feel of this bed. No matter which model you choose, the Helix Dawn really delivers on lumbar support.” Logan Block, former Sleepopolis content director and mattress tester
Expert Opinion
While there are a ton of hybrids available online, we like the Helix Dawn for stomach sleepers because of its balanced feel and high level of support. When we laid on the mattress to test it out, its top layer of foam provided soothing pressure relief at the shoulders and hips without causing the spine to dip out of alignment with the rest of the torso. At the same time, a sturdy layer of springs at the bottom of the mattress gave us an additional lift, further contributing to a healthy spinal alignment. All of this results in an even line from head to toe, which is key to avoiding back pain while stomach sleeping.
What our tester says: “I really appreciate how supportive the Helix Dawn is. Stomach sleepers could really benefit from the firm feel of this bed. It really delivers on lumbar support.” – Logan Block, former Sleepopolis director of content and mattress tester
What Customers Say
Shoppers have positive things to say about the Helix Sleep Quiz, which is a 30-second quiz to determine which Helix model is best for shoppers’ individual needs. Customers say that even if their mattress ended up not being the best fit, it was easy to exchange their mattress for a better Helix option.
Highlights of the Helix Dawn Mattress
- Budget shoppers should appreciate that the Helix Dawn comes at an affordable price point.
- This mattress sleeps cool with its light fabric cover and pocketed coils, making it a solid option for hot sleepers.
- The excellent motion isolation and edge support works well for two.
What to Keep in Mind about the Helix Dawn Mattress
- If you’re someone who wants a mattress with a lot of pressure relief or sinkage, then the highly firm Helix Dawn may not for you.
Like what you see in the Helix Dawn? Get our best deal here. For more, take a look at our full Helix Dawn mattress review. You can also look at other choices on our best mattresses page.
Saatva – Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers with Back Pain
The Saatva’s coil-on-coil construction provides a classic innerspring feel. It’s a good option for combo sleepers, who will want to feel free to switch positions and avoid feeling “stuck” in the mattress. It comes in three firmness levels, so you should be able to find one that suits your needs. The white glove delivery Saatva provides is an added perk and will save you the headache of getting rid of your old mattress (they take it away for free!). For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“I think the Saatva is a great option for back sleepers, as the Luxury Firm model provides enough cushioning for their lumbar region, but also lots of support to keep their spine in a neutral alignment.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
The Saatva Classic is considered a luxury innerspring mattress. During our tests, it proved to be durable and supportive, and it helps maintain proper spinal alignment for stomach sleepers. Those with back pain may appreciate how this mattress is not prone to sagging, and should maintain its shape for years to come. The Saatva’s bouncy coils also provide ease of movement for seniors and combination sleepers.
Combo sleepers are people who switch between several different sleeping positions at night, and the responsive springs make it easy for them to switch positions. One important note: the mattress is available in several different firmness levels. We recommend the Firm or Luxury Firm for stomach sleepers.
What our tester says: “I think a lot of these folks should be happy on the Luxury Firm model, but I’d recommend trying the Firm model if you’re a strict stomach sleeper. A firm mattress helps keep the hips and shoulders aligned, which is important for avoiding back pain.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
Shoppers say that both in-store and online customer service experiences have been more than satisfactory, from the knowledge level to the response time of Saatva representatives.
Highlights of the Saatva Mattress
- This mattress’s coil-on-coil construction creates bounce and makes it easier to move about the mattress.
- This innerspring-style mattress is incredibly supportive and gives the Saatva excellent edge support and durability.
- The construction of this mattress will help with support and contouring necessary to help alleviate back pain by keeping the spine aligned throughout the evening.
What to Keep in Mind about the Saatva Mattress
- The Saatva has high motion transfer, which is common for innerspring mattresses. This means it may not be the best for couples who awaken easily.
- As the Saatva has an innerspring feel, it does lack in pressure relief, so perhaps not the best option for shoulder or hip pain.
Interested? Get our best deal here. For more, check out our full Saatva mattress review or visit our best mattresses for back pain page to find the right mattress for you.
WinkBeds Original – Best Hybrid Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress. It has a similarly supportive and sturdy feel to a traditional innerspring mattress, but upgrades like a Euro top and cooling Tencel cover give it a touch of modern luxury. Available in three firmness levels, there is a WinkBed for just about every sleeper. And a responsive and bouncy feel makes it a great pick for combination sleepers. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“If you like the feel of a traditional innerspring mattress, the WinkBed could work for you. Since this bed offered great pressure relief around my lumbar region, I’d also recommend it to folks who suffer from lower back pain.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
The WinkBeds Original mattress comes in three different models (Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer) so that sleepers really can pick the best firmness level for their sleeping needs and preferences. As a hybrid mattress, the WinkBeds Original includes both helix coils and plush foams.
The coils included in the construction of this mattress have multiple support zones, which means that certain areas of your body will be more supported during the night, while other areas will be better able to feel the foams in the WinkBeds Original. Stomach sleepers should be able to get the lift and support they need from this mattresses’s coils, while their more sensitive areas should get extra pressure relief from the Tencel cover and Euro pillow top.
What our tester says: “This bed could work well for stomach sleepers. However, if you’re a stomach sleeper looking for an extra-firm mattress, you might want to opt for the Firm model. But either way, your hips should stay aligned with your shoulders.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
The customer reviews on the WinkBeds website often praise this mattress for its ability to alleviate their pain, especially around the lumbar region. Many users stated that their back pain completely went away after sleeping on the WinkBeds Original for only a couple of months.
Highlights of the WinkBeds Original Mattress
- Stomach sleepers should appreciate the WinkBeds Original because of its quilted Tencel cover that helps to contour and fill the lumbar region, providing pressure relief for the lower back.
- The tall pocketed coil layer included in the WinkBeds Original helps to promote airflow, so hot sleepers should stay cool throughout the night.
- The WinkBeds Original is made with CertiPUR-US Certified foams, so it’s free from harmful chemicals and heavy metals.
What to Keep in Mind about the WinkBeds Original Mattress
- Sleepers who are looking for a mattress with added sinkage for joint pain might want to opt for a softer bed than the WinkBeds Original.
Think the WinkBeds Original is the mattress of your dreams? Click here for our best deal. For more information, check out our full WinkBeds Original review or visit our best hybrid mattress page for more options.
Emma Hybrid Comfort – Best Mattress for Couples
The Emma Hybrid Comfort is a firm mattress with a durable hybrid construction. It works well for heavyweight stomach and back sleepers, as it provides enough support to keep these sleepers’ spines in neutral alignment. In addition to making it a good choice for heavier people, the Emma Hybrid Comfort’s design also gives it nice breathability and responsiveness, meaning it stays cool as you sleep and is easy to move around on.
What our tester says:
“After five minutes of lying on the Emma Hybrid Comfort, it increased 7.7 degrees. This indicates good temperature regulation. I really did feel cool when resting on it. Considering this, the airy hybrid construction, and the additional cooling features, I feel that the Emma Hybrid Comfort is one of the best cooling mattresses.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Expert Opinion
Stomach sleepers should adore the Emma Hybrid Comfort. It’s built to be a durable and supportive mattress, and its 7.5 out of 10 firmness level should keep stomach sleepers’ hips lifted throughout the night. But finding a mattress that works for not one sleeper but two is quite the challenge. By our standards, the best mattresses for couples do well with motion isolation, edge support, cooling, and responsiveness. We were delighted to see that the Emma Hybrid Comfort is a mattress that excels in all four categories, scoring at least a 4 out of 5 or higher on its tests. We weren’t exactly surprised. This hybrid bed utilizes sturdy coils, high-quality foams, and lots of cooling technology to create a durable yet cushioning mattress.
When putting this mattress through our motion isolation test, we dropped a 10-pound steel ball from three different heights and measured the level of disturbance with a seismometer. We found that the Emma Hybrid Comfort showed little disturbance and we’re confident it should do really well at isolating motion. So, you’re unlikely to be disturbed by your partner at night.
What our tester says: “The Emma Hybrid Comfort is a mattress that combines foams and sturdy coils, so stomach sleepers can get the best of both worlds in terms of comfort and support.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
What Customers Say
Reviewing customers cheer on the Emma Hybrid Comfort’s ability to stay cool all night long. This can be a really important factor for those who overheat so much that they can’t fall or stay asleep.
Highlights of the Emma Hybrid Comfort Mattress
- When rolling about on the mattress, we found it has a responsive, “on top of” feel that should appeal to combination sleepers and anyone looking for a wonderful mattress for sex.
- Our thermal gun cooling test revealed that the Hybrid Comfort has impressive cooling capabilities. This is thanks to the bed’s numerous cooling features: a moisture-wicking cover, cooling gel-infused foam, and breathable coils.
- This mattress is on the firmer side which may appeal to stomach sleepers who like a firmer feel.
What to Keep in Mind about the Emma Hybrid Comfort Mattress
- People who might sleep on their side and stomach might not find enough support in this mattress, as it is not quite supportive enough for shoulder pain.
Interested in learning more about this bed? Get our best deal here. Or read our full Emma Hybrid Comfort mattress review and visit our best mattress for couples page for more options.
Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
The Plank Firm more than lives up to its name with its ultra-sturdy foams and supportive feel. While this bed certainly isn’t for everyone, it should be an ideal fit for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combination sleepers who want to feel more on top of their mattress than in it. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I think the Plank Firm is one of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers. Both sides of the mattress, the firm side and extra firm side, should give these sleepers the support they need to keep their hips in line with their shoulders. Back sleepers who like a firmer feel should also be happy on the firm side of the Plank.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
The Plank Firm is one of the firmest mattresses on the market, meaning there’s little room for sinkage when you lie on your stomach. That’s what we look for when recommending a mattress to stomach sleepers since it helps align their spine and hips. But what’s most special about it is its flippable quality. One side is a 7.5 out of 10, while the other is 8 out of 10. This firmer feel is ideal for stomach sleepers, but also heavier stomach sleepers. The foams in this mattress are incredibly dense and durable, so they’ll provide plenty of support.
On both sides of the mattress, our hips stayed elevated while in the prone position, so either one could work well for stomach sleepers with back pain. Stomach sleepers with shoulder pain should be comfortable on the less firm side, but those with hip pain may not feel enough pressure relief, depending on their needs.
What our tester says: “I really like that the Plank Firm is a flippable mattress with two firmness options. This makes it feel like you’re getting two beds for the price of one, and also offers different levels of firmness which is perfect for people who sleep on their stomachs” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
What Customers Say
Customers seem to appreciate that the Plank Firm stays firm all night long, as opposed to losing its shape halfway through and throwing the spine out of alignment.
Highlights of the Plank Firm Mattress
- Uncertain shoppers can use the 120-night trial to choose whether the firm and extra-firm side is best for them, or if they’re better off with another Brooklyn Bedding model.
- Sleepers who rest on their backs and appreciate a firm mattress might also enjoy the Plank Firm.
- Folks who toss and turn in their sleep should find ease of movement on the Plank Firm.
What to Keep in Mind about the Plank Firm Mattress
- Being all-foam, the Plank Firm sleeps a bit hot, but you can add an optional cooling panel for an additional charge.
Is the Plank Firm your ideal mattress? Get our best deal here. Read more in our full Plank Firm mattress review or visit our best firm mattresses page to find the right mattress for you.
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Soft Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
The Bear Elite Hybrid uses foam and coils for a mix of support, cushioning, and cooling. While designed for athletes prioritizing wellness and recovery, sleepers of all activity levels can enjoy the many luxurious features. Enjoy zoned support for targeted relief, an “on top of” feel allowing for ease of movement, and cooling features throughout. For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“I’d recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid for most back and stomach sleepers.I think these sleepers will get the needed pressure relief and contouring around the lower back and hips. This mattress does a wonderful job at offering body contouring while still helping the sleeper stay elevated and lifted as well. The layers of foam should provide comfort while the coil system should offer lots of support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester
Expert Opinion
Although we found the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress to have a soft design, it still has a more “on top of the bed” feel. It comes in three firmness levels, but stomach sleepers should do best on the Firm version. It’s key for stomach sleepers to have their hips elevated, so they’re in alignment with their spine. This helps prevent future back pain.
We found the Bear Elite Hybrid’s sturdy coils to keep our bodies lifted and in proper alignment. Still, the Bear Elite Hybrid provides adequate cushioning for stomach sleepers; it has two foam layers to relieve pressure without letting folks sink too far into the mattress materials. Those with back pain, shoulder pain, and hip pain should also find a sufficient amount of pressure relief on this mattress.
What our tester says: “Despite the mattress’s softness, I felt supported on the Bear Elite Hybrid while lying on my stomach. My hips were lifted and aligned with my shoulders, helping me maintain a neutral spinal alignment. ” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
What Customers Say
A lot of folks are saying that the Bear Elite Hybrid helps ease their back pain, leading to a more restful sleep.
Highlights of the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
- Bear offers an optional cover for a fee that includes Celliant, which some research suggests may help muscle recovery by promoting blood flow. It’s no wonder why the Bear Elite Hybrid is one of the best mattresses for athletes.
- Because of its motion isolation, responsiveness, and strong edge support, it’s a fantastic option for couples.
- Copper-infused memory foam and breathable coils work to keep hot sleepers cool.
What to Keep in Mind about the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
- With a softer feel, the Bear Elite Hybrid may not be supportive enough for heavy stomach sleepers.
- The Celliant cover, which may help muscle recovery, must be purchased at an additional cost of $130.
Think this is the mattress for you? Get our best deal here. For more, head over to our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review or visit our roundup for the best soft mattresses.
Nolah Evolution – Best Cooling Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
The Nolah Evolution’s hybrid construction offers the cushioning of memory foam with the responsiveness of coils. The Luxury Firm model is a good option for side and back sleepers due to its medium-firm feel, though there are Plush and Firm versions as well. Those who share a bed may also appreciate its low motion transfer, so you won’t be disturbed by a partner’s movements and its solid edge support to allow you to maximize surface area. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I laid down to rest on this mattress on my back — my primary sleep position. I felt comfortable, but also appreciated the cozy, plush top of the bed. After some time lying on my back, I switched over to my side. I didn’t find this position quite as comfortable, as I did feel some slight pressure buildup in my shoulder.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Expert Opinion
Stomach sleepers looking for a mattress that won’t overheat should find what they’re looking for in the Nolah Evolution. It comes in three firmness levels and depending on body type, the Luxury Firm and Firm models are best for stomach sleeping. One of its comfort layers is made up of a proprietary material designed specifically for cooling. A second comfort layer has two inches of ArcticTex fibers, which is also designed for cooling.
On top of the bed, there’s a soft and breathable organic cotton cover for temperature regulation. And at the bottom, there’s a layer of HDMax EcoSupport coils for airflow. These springs are also where stomach sleepers will get most of their support. While testing this mattress, we found it feels very similarly to traditional memory foam. But luckily, it doesn’t trap much heat, unlike a number of mattresses out there.
What our tester says: “I love how the Nolah Evolution comes in three different firmness models, so you can choose the best fit for you. One of my favorite features of the Luxury Firm model is the soft pillow top. It’s a great touch for anyone who suffers from shoulder or hip pain after sleeping on their stomach” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
What Customers Say
A lot of shoppers with hip pain note that the comfort layer helps relieve a lot of that pain and pressure.
Highlights of the Nolah Evolution Mattress
- This mattress has impressive edge support, so you should be able to spread out and still feel supported. This feature also makes it a wonderful option for couples.
- The Nolah Evolution has two comfort layers that should ease the pressure off the shoulders and hips.
- The medium firmness of the Luxury Firm model allows a balance of plushness and sturdiness that keeps the mattress comfortable but still supportive.
What to Keep in Mind about the Nolah Evolution Mattress
- The Nolah Evolution may not be supportive enough for stomach sleepers over 250 pounds.
Want to check out the Nolah Evolution? Get our best deal here. For more, read our full Nolah Evolution mattress review. You can also visit our best cooling mattresses page for more options.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Lightweight Stomach Sleepers
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress combines a foam comfort layer and sturdy coils. This combination of materials makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. It comes in three firmness levels, and we recommend the Medium model for most back sleepers. It’s a great choice for shoppers who are looking for a new mattress on a budget. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“Given that the Signature Hybrid has some excellent bounce, I’d highly recommend this mattress for combination sleepers who often change positions multiple times throughout the night. I also think the Signature Hybrid could be a great fit for couples. You shouldn’t be overly disturbed by a restless partner on this bed, and it has nice, firm edge support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a hybrid mattress, meaning it uses a combination of foam (specifically memory foam or latex) and supportive coils. This hybrid construction offers a balance of pressure relief and support that is ideal for lightweight sleepers (those under 130 pounds).
The foams in the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid should allow these sleepers to sink into the mattress, especially around sensitive areas like the joints. At the same time, the coils should continue to keep their spine in a neutral alignment during the night, really providing these sleepers with the best of both worlds. Customers could also select the Firm model of this bed for the ultimate amount of support.
What our tester says: “I really like how the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid comes in three different firmness levels. It allows for all kinds of sleepers, but especially stomach sleepers who need that support, to find the right fit for them” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
What Customers Say
Many customers praise the quick and easy delivery process that Brooklyn Bedding offers, which can be really important if you’re looking to get your mattress ASAP.
Highlights of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
- The Brooklyn Bedding Signature promotes a healthy sleep posture that can help to relieve pressure around the lower back.
- This mattress comes at a stellar value since Brooklyn Bedding manufactures the mattresses in their factory.
- The Signature’s solid edge support and good motion isolation make it ideal for couples.
What to Keep in Mind about the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
- Heavy stomach sleepers (those over 250 pounds) may want a firmer and more supportive mattress than the Signature can provide.
Thinking about trying this foam bed? Get our best deal here. Or you can check out our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature mattress review and visit our best mattress for lightweight sleepers page to find the right mattress for you.
Other Stomach Sleeper Mattresses We Love
- Cocoon mattress: The Cocoon (created by Sealy) is that rare all-foam mattress that still has enough firmness and support for stomach sleepers. That’s because it has an exceptionally thick base layer of poly foam that gives these folks the lift they need to keep their hips from bowing too far into the bed and throwing their spine out of alignment. It also sleeps very cool for a memory foam mattress. Read our full Cocoon mattress review.
- DreamCloud Premier mattress: An even more luxurious upgrade of the original DreamCloud, the DreamCloud Premier has soft memory foam up top, but firmer foam below that gradually transitions to a sturdy layer of coils. All of these materials should give most stomach sleepers the support they need (the exceptions are heavy sleepers and stomach sleepers struggling with back pain). As a bonus, it comes outfitted with a cozy cashmere cover. Read our full DreamCloud Premier mattress review.
- Purple mattress: The Purple mattress is known for its unique honeycombed grid. The little squares work together to give you support until a certain amount of pressure makes them collapse and provide relief. This dynamic feel is an especially stellar fit for lightweight stomach sleepers under 150 pounds, although average weight stomach sleepers and heavy sleepers will probably need something with a less flexible structure. Read our full Purple mattress review.
Best Type of Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
A firmer, more supportive mattress may help reduce the discomfort and joint strain of stomach sleeping. But which type of mattress is best for you? Mattress options for people who sleep on their stomachs include the following:
- Latex is a responsive material with a slightly spongy feel. The responsiveness of latex can help reduce the “stuck” feeling that may occur with memory foam, so that switching positions is easier. Latex is known as a cooler material, making it an effective choice for stomach sleepers who tend to perspire or wake up hot. It’s also a natural material made from the sap of the rubber tree, and may be a suitable option for people with respiratory allergies or concerns about the environmental impact of their mattress.
- Memory foam mattresses conform to the body and offer solid support and pressure relief. Though memory foam is known for sleeping hot, recent, more advanced memory foams sleep cooler due to their larger cellular structure. The thickness, density, and firmness of memory foam varies by mattress, brand, and price. In general, changing sleeping positions on memory foam is not as easy as it is with some other mattress materials.
- Traditional coil mattresses are made with a structure of steel springs throughout the bed. Coils usually make for a firm, bouncy, and supportive bed that transfers motion easily. Pocketed coils are less likely to transfer motion due to the material that encases each individual coil.
- Hybrid mattresses achieve support and firmness using a variety of materials rather than one. They can be made of various blends of latex, memory, other polyurethane foams, coils, or something else. They’re also available in any firmness level, from soft to very firm.
- Pillow top mattresses may be made of latex, memory foam, hybrid combinations, or other mattress materials. “Pillow top” describes the layer of plush material either filling or affixed to the cover.
- Tri-zone construction utilizes three different levels of comfort to support the lumbar region of the back and align the spine. The upper section of a tri-zone mattress is typically made of a softer layer that cushions and cradles the head and shoulders. A firmer foam is used for the middle zone to support the heavier torso and prevent it from sinking too deeply into the mattress. Making up the lower zone is a medium foam that supports the hips, glutes, and legs.
Worst Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers
The worst mattresses for stomach sleepers are softer, less supportive, and more prone to sagging under the weight of the torso. Too much sinkage can throw the spine out of alignment and increase muscle and joint pain. To help prevent poor alignment and discomfort, stomach sleepers may want to avoid the following:
- A mattress with a deep pillow top. A cushiony outer layer can feel plush and cozy to sink into, but is more likely to cause a painful curvature of the neck and spine. A thick pillow top could also make breathing more difficult.
- A mattress made of softer memory foam. Stomach sleepers are more likely to shift and change position during the night, which could be more difficult on a less-firm memory foam.
- A hyper-elastic polymer mattress. These mattresses typically have open cells of relatively bouncy material and a resilient feel. Hyper-elastic polymer is responsive, making it easier to change positions, but may not offer the pressure relief and firmness that most stomach sleepers need. That being said, there are exceptions to the rule, such as the Purple Hybrid.
How We Test the Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
After reading our picks for the best mattresses for stomach sleepers, you might be wondering exactly how we arrived at these conclusions. Keep reading to understand more about how we test each mattress and what we look for to find the best mattress for people who sleep on their stomachs.
Below you’ll find our expert opinions on why the firmness and support of the mattress matter, and how to look for these factors when picking out the right mattress for you. These traits should help alleviate pain and keep you comfortable when sleeping on your stomach.
Firmness
What does firmness mean when it comes to your mattress? Though firmness and support may sound similar, they have different definitions. Firmness refers to the initial feel when you first lie on a mattress. If the mattress immediately pushes back with a stiff sleeping surface, most people would consider it firm or very firm. Other mattresses have more of a cloud-like comfort with cushioning that immediately contours around the body. This would be considered plush or soft. A balanced level of push-back, hug, and contour would be considered a medium feel.
What Firmness Level Is Best for Stomach Sleepers?
We test mattress firmness on a numerical 1-to-10 scale, with one being the softest and ten being the firmest. Most soft mattresses measure around 5 on the scale, while extra-firm mattresses measure around 8.
We generally recommend that stomach sleepers look for a mattress that comes in between 6.5 to 8 on the firmness scale, as some research suggests that softer mattresses may negatively impact your sleep quality in this position. This level should prevent the back from arching out of alignment and keep the hips lifted in line with the shoulders. Anything softer could cause discomfort in the pelvis and lower back.
Consider Body Weight
Body Weight is also a factor when choosing a mattress. A stomach sleeper of average weight might consider a medium mattress (about a 6 on the scale) or a medium-firm mattress (around 6.5 to 7). Mattresses in this firmness range will be soft enough to conform to the body without sinking excessively. A mattress that measures above a 7 may help prevent heavier stomach sleepers from sinking too deeply into the bed and exacerbating joint and muscle strain.
Why Does Body Weight Matter?
There are several factors that can contribute to how a mattress preforms for you. Body weight is one of the components that can make a mattress feel like a dream to one sleeper but a nightmare to another.
For example, heavier sleepers may find that firmer mattresses with supportive layers work best for them and prevent them from sinking too far into the mattress, which can cause stiffness and pain in the morning. Overall, beds feel softer to heavier sleepers than to lightweight sleepers. Lightweight sleepers may find firm beds to feel uncomfortably firm because they’re unable to sink in and find pressure relief.
Firmness and Spinal Alignment for Stomach Sleepers
Though the firmness of your mattress is an important factor in how comfortably you sleep, Dr. Poorbaugh warns that it may not be enough to undo existing sleep posture issues. If you already suffer from back pain, you should avoid sleeping on your stomach.
“I advise clients to avoid stomach sleeping if they are experiencing any type of spinal pain,” he says. “The primary area of concern for stomach sleepers is spinal alignment. Even with proper pillow placement [discussed below], it’s difficult to maintain a neutral spine position in prone.”
If you’re a dedicated stomach sleeper and want to be as kind as possible to your muscles and joints, make sure you have the right mattress.
Mattress Support
After firmness, support may be the most important concern for stomach sleepers. Support describes the uniformity of the mattress surface and the way it conforms to the body. Sound support will help to bolster the lower back, lift the hips, and reduce tension in the neck and shoulders.
We test the support of our mattresses by having our expert testers lay on each mattress we review and consider how supported they feel. They generally look to feel if their backs, hips, shoulders, necks, and heads are supported when laying on the mattress in various positions to help you find the most supportive mattress.
To find a bed with solid support, we recommend considering the following:
- Firmness doesn’t always equal support, so pay attention to materials and construction. Hybrid beds utilize both foam and pocketed coils, and typically offer the most well-rounded support.
- When you try out a bed, make sure your hips and shoulders aren’t sinking out of alignment. Give your body a few minutes to settle before deciding if the support feels right.
- Consider Zoned Support when trying out a mattress. Try thinking about exactly where you experience pain, or might experience pain, and look out for mattresses that have the necessary support in those areas.
- Focus less on the comfort layers and more on the support sections. Pillow tops can be tantalizing, but stomach sleepers might need to feel what’s going on underneath.
What Is Zoned Support?
Zoned support is when the mattress has different firmness levels (or zones) built into it to support all the different areas of your body.
For example, your hips tend to need a different amount of support than your shoulders, so a mattress with zoned support might be more firm around your hips and softer around your shoulders.
Pressure and Pain Relief for Stomach Sleepers
Pressure relief refers to the amount of pressure that is alleviated in various parts of your body when lying on a mattress. To test our mattresses for pressure relief, we lay on a pressure mat that uses thermal imaging to create a pressure map, much like the one pictured above. This map shows where pressure is relieved across the body when our testers are lying on a mattress. Blue and green show areas where a lot of pressure is alleviated, meaning good pressure relief properties exist in a certain mattress. Red and yellow are places where pressure is not relieved well. We use these results to find the best and most relieving mattress for stomach sleepers so you can be comfortable all night.
Hip Pain for Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleepers are particularly prone to hip pain because their hips fall out of alignment with their spine on mattresses that are too soft or lack the necessary support. Because of this, we tested all of the mattresses in this list to ensure they have the necessary support and firmness levels to keep your hips aligned with your spine throughout the evening. We used a pressure map to test the ability of each of the mattresses in this article to provide the necessary support, so you can be sure your hips will be lifted for optimum pain relief while sleeping on your stomach.
Back Pain for Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleepers may also experience back pain, as sleeping on your stomach can cause issues with the natural alignment and curve of your spine. Because of this, it is particularly important that stomach sleepers look out for appropriate levels of firmness and support to help relieve both back and hip pain and keep their spine aligned properly. We generally recommend mattresses on the firmer side, somewhere between a 6.5 to an 8 on our firmness scale, which ranks firmness from 1–10.
Pros and Cons of Stomach Sleeping
The right mattress can help mitigate some of the cons of stomach sleeping, but may not relieve them entirely. Proper firmness and support are key to sleeping with minimal tension on the neck and spine. Read below to find out more about how to find the right firmness and support for you.
| Pros | Cons |
| Many find this position more comfortable and fall asleep more easily | Can contort and put pressure on the spine because of how the body’s weight is distributed |
| Lower risk of snoring/sleep apnea because of how the throat and tongue are positioned | Can cause neck, shoulder, and back strain (especially sleeping with both arms raised) |
| May decrease the likelihood of heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease | Muscle and joint strain can cause repeated awakenings during the night, leading to sleep deprivation |
How To Sleep Comfortably and Relieve Pain When Stomach Sleeping
Use A Good Pillow
You can read below for more tips on finding the right pillow for stomach sleepers, but it is important to remember that a pillow that is too high or bulky can misalign the spine even more than what naturally happens when you sleep on your stomach. We recommend low-lofted and soft pillows that will keep your head comfortable but not put too pressure on your upper and middle spine while you sleep on your stomach.
Make Sure You Have Enough Support Under Your Hips
As we mentioned, hip pain can be an issue for stomach sleepers, as their hips and spine may move out of alignment when they sleep. To avoid this, we recommend finding a mattress that offers solid hip support and an appropriate level of firmness. However, it may also be a good idea to elevate your hips a bit during the night to keep your spine aligned.
Stay Relaxed And Straighten Your Body
Keeping your arms and legs straight and your body relaxed while you fall asleep may help keep your spine aligned and your lumbar region comfortable and free of pain.
The Right Pillows for Stomach Sleepers
More than almost any other type of sleeper, those who sleep primarily on their stomachs are most likely to gain from effective pillow use.
Why Does My Pillow Matter?
Just like how your mattress should keep your spine aligned, your pillow should help with this too. Finding the perfect spinal-aligning mattress is great, but it’s not much help if your pillow throws everything off.
For stomach sleepers, a low-lofted, soft pillow is generally the best way to keep that spine straight all night long. Learn more by checking out our picks of the absolute best pillows for stomach sleepers.
As Dr. Poorbaugh points out, it’s not just about focusing on the pillow that goes under your head (though that’s important, too), but getting creative with the ones you use along the rest of your body.
“To mitigate the risk of stomach sleeping for articular pain in the shoulder or spine, the best option is to utilize proper pillow support,” he says. “Pillows should be placed under the pelvis and shoulders to maintain neutral spine postures and avoid impingement of the shoulder.”
Research from the Mayo Clinic supports this idea, indicating that the only sure way to ensure proper support for stomach sleepers is to nestle a flat pillow directly under the pelvis. The goal is to manufacture a lift, creating a neutral position for sound sleeping.
How We Chose These Mattresses
When choosing the best mattresses for stomach sleepers, we primarily focused on firmness and support. Because stomach sleepers tend to put more pressure on their bed than other sleeping positions, they usually need a firmer and more supportive mattress. That’s why we mostly included beds that come in multiple firmness levels or scored at least a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale. Anything 7 or above can be classified as firm, and should help prevent stomach sleepers’ hips from bowing into the mattress’s layers and throwing their spine out of alignment.
FAQs
How can I avoid sleeping on my stomach?
If stomach-sleeping is causing neck or back strain, you may want to break the habit. Try sewing a tennis ball into the front of your shirt or positioning your pillow around your body to keep you on your back or side. Try a supportive pillow that cradles your neck and head and makes it more difficult to sleep on your stomach.
What is considered the best position for sleeping?
Sleeping positions are a matter of personal preference, but back- or side-sleeping is typically the most comfortable and offers great spinal alignment.
Is it healthier to sleep on a firm mattress?
A mattress is a good fit for you if it’s comfortable, doesn’t cause or worsen aches and pains, and promotes a good night’s sleep. When sleeping on a firm mattress, the bones can absorb most of the pressure and put less stress on joints and muscles. A firm mattress may be better for back and stomach sleepers, while a slightly softer mattress might be the best choice if you sleep on your side.
Is it okay to sleep without a pillow?
Sleeping without a pillow or with a flatter pillow may actually be best if you sleep on your stomach. The less you lift your head while sleeping on your stomach, the less your arch your neck, which helps to lower the risk of back and neck strain.
Is a soft or firm mattress better for stomach sleeping?
We generally recommend a bit of a firmer mattress. Somewhere between a 6.5 and 8 on our firmness scale should provide you with enough support to keep your spine aligned and relieve pain while still being comfortable and flexible with your body. A mattress that is too soft may cause more pain over time if you sleep on your stomach.
What mattress firmness level is best for stomach sleepers?
Generally, stomach sleepers are going to want a firm mattress. That way, the hips remain lifted and the back won’t sink out of alignment.
Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers 2024
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen) | Coupon | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helix Dawn | Overall | $1,373 | Apply Helix Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Saatva | Back Pain | $1,995 | Apply Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review |
| WinkBeds Original | Hybrid | $1,799 | Apply WinkBed Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Emma Hybrid Comfort | Couples | $1,199 | Apply Emma Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Plank Firm | Firm | $1,332 | Apply Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | Soft | $2,305 | Apply Bear Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nolah Evolution | Cooling | $2,499 | Apply Nolah Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Lightweight Sleepers | $1,332 | Apply Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
Bridget Chapman
Former Senior Product Editor
About Author
Bridget is a Certified Sleep Science Coach and senior editor here at Sleepopolis. From testing mattresses to writing about various sleep health topics, her goal is to help you get a good night’s sleep. You can also find her in videos on our YouTube channel. Bridget graduated magna cum laude from San Diego State University with a degree in journalism and a minor in English. Before joining the Sleepopolis team, she was a TV news reporter and worked in cities across the country. She loves spending time outdoors, checking out new restaurants, snuggling with her pets, and of course — getting some quality Zzz’s.
Combination Sleeper
Sources
Slide show: Sleeping positions that reduce back pain. Mayo Clinic. May 5, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/back-pain/multimedia/sleeping-positions/sls-20076452?s=3
Caggiari, Gianfilippo. What type of mattress should be chosen to avoid back pain and improve sleep quality? Review of the literature. Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology. December 2021. https://www.proquest.com/openview/3598c678646b0e82f1820fc1e0d5ffa3/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2034708
Poorbaugh, Keith. Personal interview.
Skarpsno Schjelderup Eivind. Sleep positions and nocturnal body movements based on free-living accelerometer recordings: association with demographics, lifestyle, and insomnia symptoms. Nature and Science of Sleep. July 7, 2017. https://www.dovepress.com/sleep-positions-and-nocturnal-body-movements-based-on-free-living-acce-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-NSS
