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
Key Takeaways
Plus: Fast Facts about Stomach Sleepers
- Stomach sleepers should focus on finding a mattress with plenty of lift to prevent their hips from dipping below the shoulders and forming a U shape, which can lead to lower back pain over time.
- According to a study by Anna’s Linens, 16% of the population sleeps on their stomach.
- The mattresses in this roundup range from $1,319-$2,499 for a queen mattress (before discounts or coupons).
- On stomach sleeping, Sleepopolis Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Raj Dasgupta says, “stomach sleepers should prioritize a firm mattress with a supportive core to maintain spinal alignment and prevent excessive sinking.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
Other Stomach Sleeper Mattresses We Have Tested
- 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.
Hear from the Experts:
What Features Should Stomach Sleepers Look for In a Mattress?
“Stomach sleepers should prioritize a firm mattress with a supportive core to maintain spinal alignment and prevent excessive sinking. Cushioning for pressure relief, edge support, and materials like memory foam or latex are crucial. Personal comfort matters, so a medium-firm mattress with these features is a good starting point for stomach sleepers.”
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine
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
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.
Pro: Latex mattresses generally provide a firmer surface with good support, which can help stomach sleepers maintain proper spinal alignment and reduce the risk of excessive sinking.
Con: If the latex mattress is too firm, it may not offer enough cushioning for stomach sleepers, potentially causing discomfort or pressure points, especially in the chest and pelvis.
Memory Foam
Memory foam mattresses conform to the body and usually offer considerable 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.
Pro: Memory foam mattresses conform well to the body, which can help alleviate pressure points for stomach sleepers and promote proper spinal alignment.
Con: Memory foam can sometimes cause stomach sleepers to sink too deeply, potentially leading to misalignment of the spine and discomfort in the lower back or neck.
Coils
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
Hybrid mattresses achieve support and firmness using a variety of materials instead of just 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.
Pro: Hybrid mattresses offer a balance of support and cushioning, providing the firmness needed to maintain proper spinal alignment for stomach sleepers while still giving you some contouring comfort in your hips.
Con: Depending on the specific hybrid mattress, stomach sleepers might experience varying degrees of sinkage or pressure points if the top layer is too soft, potentially compromising spinal alignment and causing hip and back pain.
Pillow Top
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.
Pro: Pillow top mattresses offer an extra layer of cushioning on top, which can provide a plush, comfortable surface for stomach sleepers and help reduce pressure points, especially in their hips.
Con: The added softness of a pillow top can lead to excessive sinking, which might cause misalignment of the spine for stomach sleepers and potentially result in back or neck pain.
Tri-zone Construction
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 Mattress Type 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.
What to Look for in the Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
If you decide to shop for a new mattress in person, you’ll be able to lay on each mattress and compare how they feel. However, it’s important to remember that laying on a mattress for a few minutes is not the same as actually sleeping on it night after night. Even if a mattress feels comfortable in the moment, we still recommend doing some thorough research to ensure it’s compatible with your specific sleep needs in the long run. We also recommend reading the fine print to see which in-store mattresses come with a trial period. Most online mattress brands will allow you to sleep on their beds for months (sometimes even up to a year) before becoming ineligible for returns. When shopping in person, check for trial periods so you can try before you buy. For more about online vs in-store mattress shopping, check out our complete guide.
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
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 relatively unmoving 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 pushback, hug, and contour would be considered a medium feel.
We test firmness by using our Sleepopolis firmness scale, which places mattresses between 1 and 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest. We consider a medium-firm bed as a true 6.5 on our scale. Stomach sleepers usually do well on a firmer mattress (7 or higher, although some medium-firm beds can work, too). They’ll want to make sure they sink in too much, and that their hips stay aligned with their spine to not create any lower back pain.
Hear from the Experts:
What Firmness Do Doctors Recommend for Stomach Sleepers?
“I recommend a firm or medium-firm mattress for my stomach sleeper patients. This level of firmness helps maintain spinal alignment while preventing excessive sinking, which can lead to neck and back pain. It’s important for stomach sleepers to find a mattress that offers support without being overly plush.”
Consider Body Weight
Body weight is also a factor when choosing a mattress. A stomach sleeper of average weight might consider a medium-firm mattress (a 6.5 on the scale) or a firm mattress (a 7 or higher). Mattresses in this firmness range will be soft enough to conform to the body without sinking excessively. We recommend an extra-firm mattress for heavier stomach sleepers to prevent from sinking too deeply into the bed and exacerbating joint and muscle strain. A soft mattress can lead to inadequate support for heavy stomach sleepers, potentially causing misalignment of the spine and increasing the risk of back and joint pain. Additionally, it may cause excessive sinking, which can make it harder to move around and result in discomfort or difficulty getting in and out of bed.
In terms of mattress materials, heavy stomach sleepers typically benefit from a firmer mattress, such as those made with high-density foam or innerspring coils, as these materials provide the necessary support to keep the spine aligned and prevent excessive sinking. A medium-firm to firm hybrid mattress with a supportive base and minimal contouring is often ideal for maintaining proper posture and reducing discomfort.
| Lightweight Sleepers | Average-Weight Sleepers | Heavyweight Sleepers |
| < 160 pounds | 160 – 230 pounds | > 230 pounds |
What Firmness Level Is Best for Stomach Sleepers?
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 sleeping 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.
Spinal Alignment
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. 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.
“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.”
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 lie 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 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 lie on a specialized mat that uses thermal imaging to create a “map,” of our body. It shows where pressure is relieved across the body when our testers are lying on a mattress. Blue means no pressure, green means little pressure, yellow means moderate pressure, orange means high pressure, and red means very high pressure. You’ll want to look for a mattress to little to no pressure in your sleeping position.
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.
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’s 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 and 8 on our firmness scale, which ranks firmness from 1–10.
Can Your Mattress Cause Pain?
While some sleepers experience pain as a result of injury or chronic pain, their sleeping position and mattress can contribute to pain. A mattress that is not supportive enough, does not align the spine properly, or does not offer enough pressure relief can exacerbate exiting pain or cause pain. We recommend considering the above factors before buying a mattress to be sure it will not contribute to pain.
Cooling
Stomach sleepers tend to naturally sleep warmer because of the trapped heat coming off of their stomach. When testing mattresses for stomach sleepers, we first look at the construction of the bed. We keep an eye out for breathable materials, coils, gels, and covers that will help keep you cool. We also use a thermal gun to measure the change in temperature after our testers lay on the mattress for several minutes. We consider an 8 degree change or under to be good cooling, and a change of 5 degrees and under to be great cooling.
Motion Isolation
Motion isolation refers to the amount of movement that’s felt across the mattress when you move across the mattress. This is especially important if you share a bed with a partner, kids or any pets. In the studio, we test for motion isolation by using a drop ball test. We drop steel balls from various heights and use a seismograph to measure how much movement is felt when the ball is dropped and when our testers toss and turn on the bed. The larger the waves on the graph, the worse this mattress will perform for motion transfer and isolation.
Edge Support
Edge support refers to the strength and support the edges of your mattress provide. Edge support is important for a couple reasons. Firstly, those needing assistance getting out of bed need firmer edges to help them up. This may apply to seniors and other people with mobility issues. Secondly, edge support allows you to use more of the mattress because you won’t worry about rolling off in the middle of the night. We measure edge support by lying on the edges of a bed and using a yard stick to measure the amount of sink each mattress has.
Company Policies
Warranties
Warranties are helpful when it comes to finding the right mattress. Each company’s warranty is different, so we recommend reading the fine print. Typically, warranties protect the customer from damages upon delivery or mattress defects. It’s also important to note that warranties give you an idea of how long that mattress should be durable for. We recommend looking at warranties that range from 10–20 years and staying clear of anything under 5 years.
Sleep Trials
A sleep trial will give you a chance to test your new bed in the comfort of your own home and figure out whether it’s suited for you or not. This is especially important for stomach sleepers, as finding the right bed with the right firmness and support can be tricky. Typically, manufacturers offer 60–100 days, but some can allow shoppers to test the mattress for up to a whole year.
Shipping
Every mattress selected on this list offers free shipping with your mattress purchase so you don’t have to worry about that added cost. For an extra fee, however, some mattress companies offer a service called white glove delivery, which involves them hand delivering, setting up the bed, and removing your old mattress. This is a great option if you struggle with any chronic pain or if you’re alone when the mattress is delivered.
Shipping can also be very expensive if you’re purchasing from another country in North America, so we also looked into some of the best Canadian mattresses.
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 |
Health Risks of Stomach Sleeping
Stomach sleeping is known to be one of the least-healthy sleeping positions because it can put pressure on the spine, hips, and shoulders that may cause lasting issues. The angle of your neck may cause neck pain or issues breathing, which can also be problematic. Further, sleeping on your stomach may not be ideal if you’re pregnant.
While changing your sleeping position can be challenging, we recommend starting small. You may want to try falling asleep on your side or back to help slowly transition you into a different sleep style. Doing so may help you avoid some of the health issues associated with stomach sleeping.
Hear from the Experts:
Doctors Take: Health Risks of Stomach Sleeping
“Stomach sleeping can lead to several health issues, including neck and back pain due to spinal misalignment. This position often forces the neck to rotate, which can strain the cervical spine. For those who prefer this position, using a thinner pillow, and firm mattress may help alleviate some discomfort.”
How to Clean and Take Care of your Mattress
Mattresses can collect a lot of sweat, dust mites, dead skin, and unwanted bacteria. When you start to see yellowing or staining, it’s probably time for a clean. We recommend you deep-clean your mattress once a year to extend the quality, durability and lifespan, in addition to spot cleaning every few months. Check out our full how to clean your mattress guide to get tips straight from the sleep experts. Here are just a few:
- Spot clean with fabric cleaner or regular detergent
- Use a more powerful stain remover if necessary
- Vacuum your mattress directly to remove dead skin
- Rotate your mattress every six months to increase durability
- Use hot water when cleaning
Tips To Sleep Comfortably and Relieve Pain When Stomach Sleeping
Stomach sleeping can cause certain health and pain-related issues, but if you are a strict stomach sleeper, it may be hard to change your sleeping pattern overnight. Below you can read some tips for improving your sleep while on your stomach, and ways that may make it better for you.
Use a Good Pillow
You can read below for more tips on finding the right pillow for stomach sleepers, but it’s 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.
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. It can also help alleviate pain at the lumbar region.
Alternative Sleeping Positions
Both back and side sleeping will put less pressure on the neck, hips, spine, and shoulders, and are considered healthier sleeping positions. If you try falling asleep in these positions, you may be able to slowly shift your sleep style.
Accessories for Stomach Sleepers
Now that you know what makes a mattress great for stomach sleeping, let’s dive into some sleep accessories and what stomach sleepers should look for.
Pillows
More than almost any other type of sleeper, those who sleep primarily on their stomachs are most likely to gain from effective pillow use.
Best Pillow for Stomach Sleepers
The right mattress can help keep your spine aligned, and the right pillow can, too. 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.
Mattress Toppers
If you’re unsatisfied with the feel of your current mattress, adding a mattress topper is a quick and easy way to change that. If you’re a stomach sleeper, we recommend looking for mattress toppers containing firm foam. We’ve stressed the importance of proper spinal alignment throughout this article, and a firm sleeping surface is the best way for stomach sleepers to wake up pain-free. If your mattress isn’t firm enough, your hips can sink into the foam and cause your lower back to form a U-shape. Instead, look for mattress toppers that keep the hips propped up and the spine in a straight line. For more information, check out our top picks for the best firm mattress toppers.
Adjustable Bases
Adjustable bases are bed frames that can raise and lower at the head and legs via a remote or mobile app. These bed frames are typically best suited for back and side sleepers. These bases can have a variety of health benefits. For example, back sleepers with sleep apnea can raise their head to achieve a more optimal angle for breathing. Adjustable bases can also come with a variety of special features, such as massage settings, USB ports, and zero-gravity presets.
These beds are not typically designed for stomach sleepers, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get one. Adjustable bases can be used for more than just sleeping. If you like to sit up in bed to read or watch tv, an adjustable base can allow you to lounge comfortably. Adjustable bases are also great for couples, especially split bases that allow each side to be operated independently. If you and your partner have different sleeping positions, a split adjustable base can be a compromise and allow you to only adjust your side of the bed. For our favorite adjustable bases, click here.
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 conducive to a neutral 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’s 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