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Some may sleep on their stomachs periodically, but those of us who do so for the majority of the night are a rare breed, with research suggesting only 16 percent of people stomach sleep on a daily basis. I’m sure my fellow stomach sleepers have noticed the ill effects (think back pain, neck pain, etc.) of a mattress poorly suited to our needs, which is why it’s so important for us to find the right mattress.
Fortunately, my fellow certified sleep science coaches and I have tested hundreds of mattresses and products to help determine the best mattresses for all body types and sleep positions, including stomach sleepers.
See which models made it onto our list of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers below.
Sleepopolis’ Best In Rest — 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), without being too firm.
Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers
- Helix Dawn Mattress – Best Overall Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- WinkBed Mattress – Best Hybrid Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Nectar Premier Hybrid – Best Mattress for Stomach Sleeping Couples
- Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
- Saatva Classic – Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers with Back Pain
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Lightweight Stomach Sleepers
- Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress – Best Soft Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress – Best Firm Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress – Best Cooling Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Birch Natural Mattress – Best Organic Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
Top Deals
- Helix Dawn Mattress – 20% Off Sitewide with Code LDW20; 25% Off Luxe Mattresses with Code LUXE25; 30% Off Elite Mattresses with Code ELITE30
- WinkBed Mattress – 30% Off All Mattresses
- Nectar Premier Hybrid – Save Up to 50% on Mattresses + 66% on Bundles
- Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – Up to 30% Off Mattresses and 35% Off Mattress + Adjustable Base Bundles; 25% Off Bedding
- Saatva Classic – Up to $625 Off
How We Picked the Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers
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.
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.
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 the hips of stomach sleepers. We’ve found that a hybrid or innerspring mattress with sturdy interior layers and cozy top sections can provide both stability and comfort. For this list, we prioritized mattresses that scored a 4 out of 5 or higher in this category.
We’ve developed a rigorous testing methodology that tells us how each mattress performs and who it might be a good fit for. All of the beds on this list have been evaluated for pressure relief, cooling abilities, responsiveness, edge support, and much more.
Our team of certified sleep science coaches has tested more than 500 mattresses over the last decade, allowing us to guide more than 145,000 people to the best mattress for them. Not only do we use and evaluate these products ourselves, but we also consult with doctors and other professionals to ensure we keep up to date with the latest in sleep science and medicine. For example, Dr. Joe Tedesco (DPT, OCS, ATC, CSCS) comes into our studio to personally test mattresses and give a medical perspective on each product.
Need help finding the right mattress?
Compare the Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Helix Dawn Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Nectar Premier Hybrid | Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | Saatva Classic | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Birch Natural Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Firm: 7.5/10 | Firm: 7/10 | Medium-Soft: 6/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Multiple Firmness Options | Medium-Firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Multiple Firmness Options | Multiple Firmness Options | Firm: 7/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| Best For | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Couples | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Couples | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hip Pain | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Couples | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors |
Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers Video Review
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
Why It’s the Best Overall Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- The Helix Dawn is supportive enough to keep stomach sleepers’ spines in neutral alignment.
- Its innerspring coil layer and breathable materials make this bed a good option for hot sleepers.
- This mattress is bouncy and responsive, making it a great choice for those who frequently change positions to get comfortable.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 3/5
On the Helix Dawn, you’ll likely feel your partner’s movements travel to your side of the bed.
Cooling: 4/5
When our tester lay on the surface of this mattress, he could feel it warm up, but never to the point of overheating.
Response: 5/5
Moving around on the Helix Dawn took no effort at all.
Edge Support: 4/5
We noticed a bit more sinkage when seated on the Helix Dawn, but lying down on them felt much more secure.
Pressure Relief: 3/5
Only some back sleepers may find the pressure relief they need on the Helix Dawn.
Firmness: 7/10
At 7 out of 10 on our firmness scale, the Helix Dawn has a somewhat firmer feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
The Helix Dawn earned a rare glowing review for stomach sleeping from our chief medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco. He seldom recommends mattresses for stomach sleepers with bigger bodies, but the Dawn was one of those exceptions.
“I give this a solid 4 for stomach sleepers,” Dr. Tedesco said. “My back is perfectly supported. The pillow top is soft enough to provide enough give for my feet. A larger person will feel comfortable. I feel like I’m floating in this position.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | unpleasant | good | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | good | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
Of all its models, the Helix Dawn is the brand’s firmest option. We chose this bed as the best overall mattress for stomach sleepers because of its balanced feel and high level of support. Our testers found that it did an excellent job of promoting proper spinal alignment. During testing, it also earned 4 out of 5 or higher in cooling, edge support, and responsiveness.
That said, this firm bed unfortunately doesn’t provide much pressure relief. It also only scored 3 stars for motion release. While this score is considered average, if you sleep with a partner, you’re likely to feel their movements from the other side of the bed.
Choose the Helix Dawn if …
- You are a stomach sleeper who prefers a firmer-than-average sleep surface.
- A bouncy hybrid mattress would make it easier for you to move around on.
Keep looking if …
- You spend some time sleeping on your side. This mattress does not provide enough pressure relief for side sleepers.
- You share your mattress with a partner. Since this mattress is so bouncy, you are likely to feel all of your partner’s movements. For a firm option with better motion isolation, consider the Helix Dusk instead.
For more information about this bed, read our full Helix Dawn mattress review.
WinkBeds – 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
Why It’s the Best Hybrid Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- WinkBed’s solid edge-to-edge support provides enough stability for stomach sleepers.
- The pillow-top provides a soft surface to sink into.
- This mattress is available in three firmness options to suit different preferences. The Firmest option is likely the best for strict stomach sleepers.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.3/5
Our tester didn’t notice much movement during our ripple test.
Cooling: 3.5/5
Our cooling test found that the WinkBed did not excel at temperature regulation.
Response: 3/5
It was a little difficult to move around on the WinkBed, despite its hybrid construction.
Edge Support: 4.4/5
We found the WinkBed’s edges to be very strong.
Pressure Relief: 3.8/5
While pressure mapping the WinkBed, our testers found some pressure buildup on their side.
Firmness: 6.5/10
The Luxury Firm WinkBed has a medium-firm feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
Our chief medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco, fell in love with the WinkBed’s soft pillow-top cover across multiple sleeping positions, including stomach sleeping.
“Because this has a soft top, my legs are sinking into this mattress, and my ribs feel supported,” said Dr. Tedesco. “I like this bed’s materials for keeping a stomach sleeper supported in the prone position. I don’t feel significant pressure anywhere, and it actually feels really good.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | unpleasant |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | good | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
Hybrid mattresses combine the coil system of innerspring beds with the plush foam of all-foam beds to create a balanced sleeping experience that prioritizes both support and pressure relief. The WinkBeds Original mattress embodies this, featuring an extra-tall layer of coils that provides lift and support. During testing, we gave the Luxury Firm version of the WinkBed a 4 out of 5 or higher in the edge support and motion isolation categories.
Since the WinkBed comes in multiple firmnesses, stomach sleepers should opt for the Firm model. This firmness will give stomach sleepers the lift they need around their hips to maintain a healthy spinal position.
Choose the WinkBed if …
- You are a stomach sleeper looking for a mattress that is not overly firm. The Firm version of the WinkBed should still provide the optimal balance of support and cushioning, thanks to its pillow-top cover.
- Strong edge support is important for getting out of bed. The sturdy perimeter can provide a stable surface for sleepers with mobility concerns.
Keep looking if …
- Frequently changing positions is part of the nightly routine. The WinkBed’s soft cover layer may make it more difficult to move around and get comfortable.
- You spend time sleeping on your side. During testing, we found that the WinkBed didn’t offer the best side-sleeping pressure relief. If you are a stomach-and-side combination sleeper, we recommend upgrading to the WinkBed Plus instead.
For more information about this bed, read our full WinkBed mattress review.
Nectar Premier Hybrid – Best Mattress for Stomach Sleeping Couples
The Nectar Premier is a luxurious all-foam mattress equipped with quality materials. A moisture-wicking cover and gel-infused comfort layer create a cooling, thermoregulating mattress for hot sleepers. Perhaps its strongest attribute is its next-level pressure relief. Six inches of foam work to contour sensitive areas, but the high-density foam at the bottom of the bed provides plenty of support. Watch our video review to learn more.
What our tester says:
“My favorite thing about the Nectar Premier is its great pressure relief. This medium-soft mattress is a great fit for side sleepers looking for plush comfort. It might also be a nice fit for sleepers who deal with shoulder pain.” – Riley Otis, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Why It’s the Best Mattress for Stomach Sleeping Couples
- The Nectar Premier Hybrid has a plush yet supportive feel that fits a variety of different sleepers.
- Couples will also appreciate how the soft top of the Nectar Premier dampens motion and prevents it from rippling across the surface of the bed.
- The queen-sized Nectar Premier Hybrid often goes on sale for $1,200, which is a great deal for this mattress.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.2/5
You should likely feel when your partner gets in and out of bed, but smaller movements will be stifled.
Cooling: 4.5/5
For a foam mattress, the Nectar Premier has exceptional cooling.
Response: 4/5
It was fairly easy to switch sleeping positions on the Nectar Premier.
Edge Support: 3.6/5
There was some significant sinkage when our tester sat on the edge.
Pressure Relief: 4.2/5
This mattress had top-notch pressure relief for back sleepers in all weight categories.
Firmness: 5.5/10
The Nectar Premier is on the slightly softer side of the firmness scale.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
While testing the Nectar Premier Hybrid, Dr. Tedesco gave it a 4.5 out of 5 for stomach sleeping. He noted that it had the perfect firmness to help stomach sleepers with lower back pain.
“My ankles feel really good in this position,” said Dr. Tedesco. I’m sinking into it enough so it’s comfortable. Because it’s on the softer side, I thought my hips would sink too far. However, my legs sink in more than my bottom, which gives a posterior pelvic tilt to help a stomach sleeper with back pain. It’s the same as putting a pillow under the hips in this position.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | excellent | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | excellent | good | good |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | unpleasant | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
The Nectar Premier Hybrid is an elevated version of the brand’s Nectar Classic model. The foam layers atop its innerspring coils give it a bit of the classic sink with support underneath. During testing, the hybrid earned high marks in pressure relief and motion isolation — no surprise, given the thick layer of memory foam — and we think it could be especially comfortable for lightweight and average-weight stomach sleepers.
Unfortunately, the Nectar Premier Hybrid’s soft surface sinks in a little too much for sleepers with bigger bodies. These sleepers will likely experience pressure buildup as a result of that plushness.
Choose the Nectar Premier Hybrid if …
- You are a stomach sleeper with back pain. According to Dr. Tedesco, it should offer just enough sinkage to help these sleepers relieve lower back pain.
- A bed that dampens motion would help you sleep soundly with your restless partner. The soft surface of the Nectar Premier Hybrid does a great job of isolating motion and stifling disturbances.
Keep looking if …
- You need a mattress that can support heavier weights. The Nectar Premier Hybrid isn’t firm enough to support sleepers with bigger bodies. For these sleepers, we’d recommend something like the Titan Plus Core instead.
For more information about this bed, read our full Nectar Premier Hybrid mattress review.
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – Best Mattress for Combination Stomach Sleepers
The Leesa Sapira Chill is a hybrid mattress, available in three firmness levels. We tested the Medium-Firm model and felt it was just softer than average, but could still work for all three sleeping positions — a rare find among mattresses. It also has some effective cooling technology built into it, which helps to keep sleepers cool throughout the night. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“I really think the medium-firm model is a great fit for all sleeping positions. Yep, the Leesa Sapira Chill is one of those unicorn mattresses that provides a great balance of comfort and support for a wide range of sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Why It’s the Best Mattress for Combination Stomach Sleepers
- This mattress is supportive enough for stomach sleepers, yet its softer top layer also makes it a solid option for back and side sleepers.
- The surface of the Sapira Chill is highly responsive, making it easy to reposition your body on the bed.
- Hot sleepers should have no trouble cooling down on this mattress, thanks to its exceptional temperature-regulating properties.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 3.7/5
The water sloshed around quite a bit during our ripple test, indicating just-average motion isolation.
Cooling: 4.5/5
This bed lived up to its name with its exceptional cooling abilities.
Response: 4.5/5
Moving around was largely seamless, save for rolling over on the doughier pillow top.
Edge Support: 3.9/5
While our tester found the edge support acceptable, there was more sagging in our weighted tests.
Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
Our pressure map results showed almost no pressure buildup on the Leesa Sapira Chill.
Firmness: 6/10
We found the Leesa Sapira Chill’s construction to have a softer feel.
Tester Notes
Mattress tester Riley Otis was impressed by the Leesa Sapira Chill’s performance for lightweight stomach sleepers, but was reluctant to recommend it to those with bigger bodies who prefer that position.
“I really like this bed for lightweight stomach sleepers, but I wouldn’t recommend it to heavyweight stomach sleepers,” Riley said. “My hips sank in a tiny bit, but they still felt aligned with my shoulders. When I forced my hips to sink further to simulate someone heavier than myself, I could then feel pressure forming at my lower back as it bent out of alignment.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | excellent | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | excellent | excellent | good |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | unpleasant | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
Combination sleepers need a mattress compatible with multiple sleeping positions that provides enough bounce to prevent them from feeling stuck in the bed. The Leesa Sapira Chill is one such mattress compatible with combo sleepers who primarily rest on their stomachs, thanks to its sturdy coil layer that aligns the hips with the shoulders. The Leesa also impressed us in the cooling and pressure relief categories, earning a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5 in both.
That said, the Leesa performed weakest in motion isolation and edge support, meaning it’s not the best choice for couples sensitive to movement and those who rest on the perimeter of the bed.
Choose the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid if …
- Changing sleeping positions at night is a challenge for you, and you need a springy surface that makes it easier to do so.
- You are a hot sleeper looking for a mattress with above-average cooling capabilities.
Keep looking if …
- A restless partner or pet frequently interrupts your sleep. The Leesa isn’t the best at dampening motion, meaning you might feel their every movement.
- You have mobility concerns and need a strong perimeter to bear down on. The edge support of the Leesa Sapira Chill was weaker than other hybrid models we’ve tested. For a similar bed with stronger edges, consider the Helix Midnight Luxe instead.
For more information about this bed, read our full Leesa Sapira Chill mattress review.
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
Why It’s the Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers with Back Pain
- The Saatva’s two layers of supportive innerspring coils make it ideal for stomach sleepers regardless of body type.
- Our testers loved the plush Euro-top cover’s comfortable, temperature-neutral feel.
- The Saatva is also highly responsive and easy to move around on.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 2.7/5
Our tester could feel a lot of his partner’s movement on the Saatva.
Cooling: 4/5
This bed has a temperature-neutral feel.
Response: 5/5
The Saatva’s innerspring feel makes it super bouncy and easy to move around on.
Edge Support: 4.8/5
The perimeter of the Saatva Classic is rock-solid.
Pressure Relief: 4/5
Pressure relief is better for back sleepers than side sleepers on this bed.
Firmness: 7.5/10
The Luxury Firm model of the Saatva Classic has a firmer feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
Our chief medical product tester and licensed physical therapist, Dr. Joe Tedesco, was impressed by the Saatva Classic’s coil-on-coil construction. He found it to be the real difference-maker for stomach sleepers.
“When you lie on your stomach, oftentimes your back wants to arch,” explained Dr. Tedesco. “The springs provide enough support so you don’t actually sink into the mattress much to create that arch. I really like this mattress for stomach sleepers.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | unpleasant | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | excellent | good |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
Our Expert Opinion
I’m a stomach sleeper, and I also happen to sleep on a Saatva every night. This luxury innerspring comes in three firmness options, with my favorite being the middle-ground Luxury Firm. I think this model is an especially good fit for stomach sleepers with back pain, thanks to its firmness and multiple features that promote spinal stability. It’s not difficult to see why we gave this bed a near-perfect edge support score (4.8 out of 5).
My only real complaint about the Saatva is its lack of motion isolation. I’m a light sleeper to the point where I can sense someone about to move, and the Saatva’s super-springy surface only heightens every twitch or shift my partner makes.
Choose the Saatva if …
- Sleeping on your back and stomach has become uncomfortable. The Saatva is supportive enough to elevate your hips and keep your spine in a healthy position.
- A more responsive mattress would make it easier for you to change positions on.
Keep looking if …
- Sensitive joints require extra cushioning. The Saatva may feel too firm to provide enough pressure relief around tender areas.
- A restless partner frequently tosses and turns. The Saatva’s bouncy surface can transfer movement across the bed. For better motion isolation, consider the Saatva Rx instead.
For more information about this bed, read our full Saatva Classic mattress review.
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
Why It’s the Best Mattress for Lightweight Stomach Sleepers
- Most sleepers should experience plenty of pressure relief on this mattress, thanks to its cushioned cover layer and medium-firm feel.
- The Signature Hybrid’s exceptional motion isolation makes it a great pick for couples with restless partners.
- The innerspring coils make the Signature Hybrid easy to maneuver on, which is a plus for combination sleepers.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
This hybrid offers some excellent motion absorption despite the springs in its construction.
Cooling: 3.5/5
The Signature Hybrid felt just okay during our temperature regulation test, but some hot sleepers may prefer a more actively cooling bed.
Response: 4/5
The Signature Hybrid’s soft cover layer might make it challenging for some combination sleepers to move around, but you should still get some bounce from the coils.
Edge Support: 3.4/5
We noticed quite a bit of sinkage during our weighted edge support test, but the perimeter does help you “bounce” to your feet.
Pressure Relief: 4.8/5
The soft cushioning of the Signature Hybrid makes it a good option for back and side sleepers.
Firmness: 6.5/10
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid falls right at the industry standard of medium-firm.
Tester Notes
During testing, product expert Riley Otis was impressed by the Signature Hybrid’s performance for stomach sleeping. Though, she warned that sleepers with bigger bodies might experience more pressure buildup than other body types.
“I personally liked this mattress for stomach sleeping,” Riley said. “My hips dipped slightly into the pillow top, but not enough to mess with my alignment. Everything still felt level and supported. I do think heavier sleepers might sink in more and run into some discomfort, but for light to average weight sleepers, the balance of cushioning at the chest and hips works really well.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | excellent | excellent | good |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | good | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
Because they don’t press into a mattress’s layers as much (and thus don’t get a lot of contouring), lightweight stomach sleepers need a supportive mattress that isn’t too firm. In fact, they usually fare better on a medium-firm bed. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is one such mattress, earning a near-perfect 4.8 star score in pressure relief, as well as a reasonable 6.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale (the industry standard for medium firm).
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid earned an overall score of 4.3, so it has a lot going for it. Unfortunately, its performance was only about average in the cooling and edge support categories. Hot sleepers and those with mobility concerns will likely fare better on a firmer hybrid model with additional cooling features.
Choose the Signature Hybrid if …
- Switching between sleeping positions is common and an easy-to-move-on surface is a must-have.
- You are a lightweight stomach sleeper that needs a hybrid mattress that is highly supportive yet soft enough to prevent pressure buildup.
Keep looking if …
- Strong edge support is a priority. The plush top layer causes the perimeter of the Signature Hybrid to sink a bit under weight.
- You tend to sleep hot. Hot sleepers may be more comfortable on a more temperature-regulating option, such as the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe.
For more information about this bed, read our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review.
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
Why It’s the Best Soft Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- The Bear Elite Hybrid’s soft motion-dampening surface makes it a good option for two people.
- Hot sleepers shouldn’t have to worry about overheating on the Bear Elite Hybrid, thanks to its superior cooling.
- The Bear’s strong corner-to-corner support suggests that it will resist sagging for many years.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Our tester could only vaguely feel their colleague’s movements on this bed.
Cooling: 4.5/5
There wasn’t much of a temperature increase after we lay on the bed.
Response: 4/5
It was fairly easy to move between sleeping positions on the Bear Elite Hybrid.
Edge Support: 4.4/5
We found that the Bear Elite Hybrid’s edges were fairly sturdy.
Pressure Relief: 4.1/5
Back sleeping is best for pressure relief on this mattress.
Firmness: 7/10
The materials of the Bear Elite Hybrid resulted in a somewhat firmer feel for the mid-range model.
Tester Notes
Despite slight sinkage near her lower back, certified sleep science coach Sosha Lewis was impressed by the Bear Elite Hybrid’s overall stomach-sleeping performance. That said, she wouldn’t recommend it to stomach sleepers with bigger bodies.
“I felt the slightest dip in my lower spine, but it wasn’t uncomfortable,” Sosha said. “However, heavier sleepers will probably not get the hip boost that they need, but I think those who are lightweight and average weight should be fine.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | good |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | good | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
The Bear Elite Hybrid is ideal for stomach sleepers seeking a supportive mattress with plenty of cushioning. This model comes in multiple firmness levels, and we recommend the Firm option for additional support. We tested the Medium model in our studio, and even with its plush top layer, it still qualifies as a firmer mattress. We were also impressed by this bed’s 4.5-star cooling and 4.4-star edge support.
One thing we would like to point out is that sleepers with bigger bodies will likely find the Soft and Medium versions of the Bear Elite Hybrid too soft to keep their spines in a healthy position.
Choose the Bear Elite Hybrid if …
- You’re a stomach sleeper who wants a soft mattress without compromising support.
- Sleeping toward the edge of the bed has become uncomfortable. The Bear’s impressive edge support should keep you comfortable and supported, regardless of where you lie.
Keep looking if …
- You spend time sleeping on your side. We found the Bear Elite Hybrid’s side-sleeping pressure-relief performance somewhat lacking.
- You’re looking for a budget option. At $2,300 (full price) for a queen-sized bed, the Bear Elite Hybrid is on the pricier side. For a similar, more cost-effective option consider the Titan Plus Core.
For more information about this bed, read our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review.
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
Why It’s the Best Firm Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Both sides of the Plank Firm offer unwavering support, making them ideal for stomach sleepers and those with bigger bodies.
- Couples should appreciate the Extra Firm side’s above-average motion isolation and edge support.
- Combination sleepers should find it easy to move around on either side of this flippable bed.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Firm Side
Motion Isolation: 5/5
The memory foam layer closer to the Firm side did a fantastic job of dampening motion.
Cooling: 3.5/5
Our testers found the Firm side initially cool to the touch, but it retained some body heat over time.
Response: 4.5/5
The Firm side is only slightly less responsive than the Extra Firm due to the foam layer.
Edge Support: 3.5/5
The edge support on the Firm side is mostly average; however, you can lie on it with falling off.
Pressure Relief: 4.4/5
The Firm side of the luxe Plank has exceptional pressure relief for back sleepers.
Firmness: 7/10
The Firm side of the Plank is only slightly firmer than the industry average of medium-firm (6.5).
Extra-Firm Side
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Despite being closest to the springy coils, the Extra Firm side has surprisingly solid motion isolation for couples.
Cooling: 3/5
During testing, our team found that the cooling on the Extra Firm side was about average.
Response: 5/5
The Extra Firm side is closest to the innerspring coils, making it is highly responsive to movement and ideal for combination sleepers.
Edge Support: 3.2/5
We found more sinkage on the edge of the Extra Firm side; its performance here was about average.
Pressure Relief: 3.8/5
The Extra Firm side provides less cushioning, meaning some side sleepers may experience pressure buildup.
Firmness: 7.5/10
Most sleepers will find that the Extra Firm side is significantly firmer than most mattresses.
Tester Notes
Certified sleep science coach Sosha Lewis gave the Extra Firm side of the Plank Firm high praise for stomach and back sleeping during testing, noting both sleeping positions should find plenty of support and pressure relief on the bed’s firmer-than-average surface.
“The firmness and the soft upper layer made this bed fantastic for stomach sleepers,” said Sosha. “There was no pinch in my lower back. I liked it a lot. It kept my spine straight. I loved how it felt around my hips; there was plenty of elevation.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | unpleasant | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | unpleasant | excellent | excellent |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | good | good | good |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
Our Expert Opinion
Stomach sleepers typically benefit most from an ultra-firm and supportive bed, and the Plank Firm delivers just that. This flippable firm mattress comes in at a 9 out of 10 on the Firm side, and 7 out of 10 on the Extra Firm side (this is likely because the layer of 6-inch support foam is closer to the surface of this side). Both sides offer a truly extra-firm sleep experience, which is sure to keep stomach sleepers lifted and aligned on this bed’s surface. The Extra Firm side of this mattress also impressed our testers in numerous categories, earning a 4 or higher in cooling, edge support, motion isolation, and responsiveness.
That said, it probably goes without saying that the Plank Firm mattress isn’t the best option for sleepers seeking deep pressure relief. The Plank is too firm to relieve tension for sleepers with sensitive joints or chronic pain.
Choose the Plank Firm if …
- A firmer sleep surface would help keep your spine more aligned. Both sides of this mattress should give these sleepers the support they need to keep their hips aligned with their shoulders.
- You are a combination sleeper. Since you won’t sink into the Plank Firm, you shouldn’t have to worry about getting stuck in its layers.
Keep looking if …
- You are someone with sensitive joints or chronic pain. If you’re looking for a firmer-than-average memory foam mattress that still offers some pressure relief, consider the Saatva Contour5 instead.
For more information about this bed, read our full Plank Firm mattress review.
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
Why It’s the Best Cooling Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Its above-average cooling performance makes it a fantastic option for sleepers who overheat at night.
- Sleepers with sensitive joints shouldn’t have to worry about waking up sore thanks to its exceptional pressure relief.
- Couples with restless partners should appreciate its perfect 5-star score in the motion isolation category.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 5/5
Our tester noticed no movement during our ripple test, resulting in a perfect score for motion isolation.
Cooling: 4.5/5
The Nolah Evolution showed above-average cooling capabilities.
Response: 4/5
Our tester found it fairly easy to roll around on the Nolah Evolution.
Edge Support: 4.6/5
The Nolah Evolution had a strong perimeter, earning a high edge support test.
Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
The bed was good at relieving pressure, though some of our testers wanted more sinkage.
Firmness: 7/10
The springs in the construction made for a slightly firmer feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
Dr. Joe Tedesco, our chief medical product tester and licensed physical therapist, found the Nolah Evolution comfortable in every position. He noticed plenty of support near his lower body to keep his spine in a healthy position while lying on his stomach.
“I feel very supported by this mattress on my stomach,” said Dr. Tedesco. “I can even lie on it without a pillow because of the tufts in its cover layer. I feel a lot of decompression in my lower back, which is a good thing. I think stomach sleepers with scoliosis should find relief on this mattress.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | excellent | excellent | good |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | good | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | excellent |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | good |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
Stomach sleepers, you might be surprised to know that we are prone to overheating because of our prone position. The Nolah Evolution Hybrid is a great cooling mattress to tackle this problem, and it comes in a Firm option for extra support (for which the bed earned a 4.5 out of 5).
My fellow tester and editor Sosha Lewis owns a Nolah Evolution and couldn’t say enough about its cooling capability: “The Evolution’s cooling factors are a godsend. Before getting it, we kept our bedroom so cold that I’m certain we could have stored dead bodies in it. Now, we can keep our room at a temperature where I don’t think I may freeze to death.” Its breathable, open-celled foams, ArcticTex cover, and ventilated gusset all contribute to the bed’s 4.5 out of 5 cooling score.
Choose the Nolah Evolution if …
- You and your partner sleep hot. On top of scoring a 4.5 out of 5 in cooling, the Nolah Evolution also earned a perfect 5-star rating in motion isolation. You shouldn’t have to worry about feeling your partner’s movements on this bed.
- A well-rounded hybrid is the goal. High scores in pressure relief, edge support, and responsiveness make the Nolah Evolution suitable for a wide range of sleep needs and preferences.
Keep looking if …
- A budget-friendly mattress is the priority. The Nolah Evolution frequently goes on sale, but plenty of less expensive options are available.
- You prefer having more time to try things out. If you’d like a longer sleep trial to get to know your new mattress better, consider the Nectar Premier instead. The Nectar Premier comes with a 365-night sleep trial.
For more information about this bed, read our full Nolah Evolution mattress review.
Birch Natural – Best Organic Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
The Birch Natural is a latex mattress utilizing individually wrapped coils for added support. This mattress specializes in cooling and responsiveness, and the firmer nature suits back and stomach sleepers well. Perhaps the most special part about this mattress is the material quality. Not only is the Birch organic, but it has also earned multiple certifications for safe production and materials. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“One of my favorite things about the Birch is how cooling it is. I think any hot sleeper will be satisfied by this breathable bed. It’s definitely one of the most cooling mattresses available thanks to its wool and latex layers. These cooling materials also make it one of my favorite organic mattresses.” – Madison Schaper, Sleepopolis staff writer
Why It’s the Best Organic Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Stomach sleepers and back sleepers alike should find plenty of support that promotes proper spinal alignment on the Birch.
- Eco-conscious shoppers looking for a mattress with ethical manufacturing practices will appreciate the Birch’s many third-party certifications.
- The organic materials in the Birch Natural are also hypoallergenic.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Motion Isolation: 4/5
Despite its springy feel, the Birch Natural does a surprisingly good job of dampening motion.
Cooling: 4/5
Hot sleepers shouldn’t have to worry about overheating on the Birch Natural mattress.
Response: 5/5
The combination of bouncy latex and responsive innerspring coils make this mattress easy to move around on.
Edge Support: 4/5
Sleepers who gravitate toward the edge of the bed should appreciate the Birch’s reinforced perimeter.
Pressure Relief: 4/5
While the Birch provides solid pressure relief for various types of sleepers, it is ideal for back sleepers.
Firmness: 7/10
The Birch Natural is slightly firmer than the industry standard of medium-firm (6.5 out of 10).
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
During testing, our chief medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco, found that the Birch Natural was comfortable in this position with a pillow beneath his stomach. He added that the Birch might be a better fit for lightweight stomach sleepers than for other weight categories.
“I feel some pressure on my lower back,” said Dr. Tedesco. “On its own, it’s not overly uncomfortable, but it’s just not supportive enough. However, if I place a pillow under my stomach, this mattress is very comfortable.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
| Body Weight | Side | Back | Stomach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (under 130 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Average (130-230 lbs) | good | excellent | excellent |
| Heavy (over 230 lbs) | unpleasant | good | unpleasant |
| Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs) | |
|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | good |
| Back Sleeper | excellent |
| Stomach Sleeper | excellent |
| Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs) | |
| Side Sleeper | unpleasant |
| Back Sleeper | good |
| Stomach Sleeper | unpleasant |
Our Expert Opinion
The Birch Natural’s quality Talalay latex and supportive coils do an excellent job supporting stomach sleepers, helping them maintain a neutral, healthy spinal position. Latex offers a uniquely buoyant feel while allowing some sinkage. Its latex construction is the primary reason it scored high in pressure relief (4), edge support (4), and responsiveness (5).
However, latex isn’t always the best choice for couples, as its buoyant nature tends to amplify motion rather than disturb it.
Choose the Birch Natural if …
- An eco-conscious option made with organic materials sounds appealing to you.
- The bouncy, responsive feel of latex would make it easier for you to maneuver.
Keep looking if …
- You have shoulder pain. These sleepers may want a softer mattress that offers a bit more sinkage to prevent pressure buildup.
- You are looking for a budget option. The organic materials in the Birch Natural make it a pricier pick than other hybrids. For a cheaper mattress with a similar feel, consider the Silk & Snow Hybrid instead.
For more information about this bed, read our full Birch Natural mattress review.
Latest Updates: In August 2026, we updated our best mattresses for stomach sleepers roundup to align with our most recent testing data. After reviewing the options on this list, we replaced the Nectar Luxe with the Nectar Premier Hybrid. We found that it was the superior (and cheaper) option for stomach sleepers. We also updated scores, prices, and tester feedback where applicable.
Other Mattresses I Considered
There are a lot of mattresses out there that can work for stomach sleepers, but we only have so many spots on this list. Here are some beds that we liked, but didn’t quite make the cut this time around:
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 us the lift we need to keep our hips from bowing too far into the bed and throwing our 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 and 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 (heavy sleepers and stomach sleepers struggling with back pain are the exceptions). As a bonus, the Premier comes outfitted with a cozy cashmere cover. Read our full DreamCloud Premier mattress review.
Purple Mattress
The Purple mattress is known for its unique honeycomb-shaped grid. The little squares work together to give you support until a certain amount of pressure makes them collapse and provide relief. Thank his dynamic feel is an especially stellar fit for lightweight stomach sleepers under 130 pounds, though average-weight stomach sleepers and heavy sleepers will probably need something with a less flexible structure. Read our full Purple mattress review.
How We Tested the Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers
When deciding on the best mattresses for stomach sleepers, we considered advice from Dr. Raj Dasgupta, one of our medical advisors: “Personal comfort matters, so a firm mattress with strong support and pressure relief is a good starting point for stomach sleepers.”
Learn more about how we evaluated these categories below.
Key Testing Categories for Stomach Sleepers
Firmness
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 or medium-firm feel.
We generally recommend that stomach sleepers look for a mattress that comes in between 7 and 9 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. That said, every now and then, a medium-firm mattress of 6.5 could also be a good fit for stomach sleepers.
Since stomach sleepers typically benefit from a firmer-than-average mattress, we’ve highlighted mattresses below with a firmness rating above 6.5 out of 10, which is the general industry standard.
| Mattress | Firmness |
| Helix Dawn | 7/10 |
| WinkBed | 6.5/10 |
| Nectar Premier Hybrid | 6.5/10 |
| Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | 6/10 |
| Saatva Classic | 7.5/10 |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | 6.5/10 |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | 7/10 |
| Plank Firm (Firm Side) | 9/10 |
| Plank Firm (Extra Firm Side) | 7/10 |
| Nolah Evolution | 7/10 |
| Birch Natural | 7/10 |
Spinal Alignment
When a bed properly aligns your spine, it should coax your body into a natural “S curve,” allowing lift and give in all the right places. Though the support of your mattress is an important factor in how comfortably you sleep, Dr. Keith Poorbaugh, a licensed physical therapist and orthopedic clinical specialist, warns that it may not be enough to undo existing sleep posture issues.
“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, it’s difficult to maintain a neutral spine position [when] prone.”
Pressure Relief
Pressure relief refers to the amount of pressure that’s alleviated in various parts of your body when lying on a mattress. As you lie down on a bed in certain positions, you may notice that certain parts dig into the mattress. For stomach sleepers, this will most likely be your midsection or chest. Pressure relief ensures discomfort or pain doesn’t build up in these areas.
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 can build up 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 with little to no pressure in your preferred sleeping position.
Dr. Dasgupta notes that some things may cause a mattress to be worse at relieving pressure: “This can be due to poor quality, inferior materials, a lack of support, or simply the wrong firmness level for your specific needs.” Take all of these into account when looking for a pressure-relieving mattress.
Of all the mattresses we’ve tested, the average pressure-relief score is 3.8 out of 5. Most of the mattresses scored at or above that on our list. The mattresses that scored lower are those that offered a firmer, more supportive feel for sleepers with bigger bodies.
How the Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers Scored in Pressure Relief
| Mattress | Pressure Relief Score |
| Helix Dawn | 3/5 |
| WinkBed | 3.8/5 |
| Nectar Premier Hybrid | 3.9/5 |
| Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | 4.5/5 |
| Saatva Classic | 4/5 |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | 4.8/5 |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | 4.1/5 |
| Plank Firm (Firm Side) | 2.7/5 |
| Plank Firm (Extra Firm Side) | 3/5 |
| Nolah Evolution | 4.3/5 |
| Birch Natural | 4/5 |
Other Tests
While firmness, spinal support, and pressure relief were the main factors that we considered when choosing the best mattresses for stomach sleepers, we also performed many other tests in other categories.
For example, we evaluated motion isolation, which is important for those who share a mattress with another person. During this test, two of our testers lie next to each other on the mattress. One tester wears a blindfold and remains still. The second tester moves around and gets in and out of bed. Each time the blindfolded tester feels movement, they raise their hand. This test tells us how well the mattress absorbs motion.
Review our testing methodology to learn more about how we evaluate every mattress.