Memory foam is widely known — and loved — for its pressure relief and motion isolation. But there’s one big downside: Traditional memory foam tends to trap heat, which can be a dealbreaker for hot sleepers. That’s why many mattress companies now use gel-infused memory foam, which is designed to help dissipate heat. But since gel memory foam can vary from brand to brand and some versions work better than others, we’ll break down the best gel mattresses and what makes them stand out.

At a Glance
  • Endorsed by thousands of 5-star reviews and backed by a lifetime warranty, our top pick is the DreamCloud Premier. It excels at relieving pressure and supporting spinal alignment.
  • Designed to sleep cooler, gel beads or swirls are interspersed throughout memory foam, where it absorbs heat to prevent it from building up. Read more in our guide.
  • Is time of the essence? Watch 1-minute video reviews of some of our favorite gel mattresses.

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Best Mattress Overall

DreamCloud Premier

8.7 /10

Test Lab Score

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The best overall gel mattress is the DreamCloud Premier. Its hybrid design layers gel-infused foam above a robust layer of pocketed coils, giving the mattress a cooler feel and impressive all-around performance.

Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab

Price

$999

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

365 nights (30-night requirement)

At a Glance
  • Who It’s Best for: Side sleepers across most weight groups and back sleepers up to 230 pounds.
  • Feel: A true medium firm (6) design with plush, surface-level cushioning and sturdy underlying support.
  • What It’s Made of: Adaptive polyfoam and memory foam comfort layers encased in a Euro-style pillow-top, followed by a pocketed coil support core.
  • What We Don’t Like: Too thick and adaptive for most back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

6.5/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

Full Details

Designed with multiple layers of pressure-relieving materials, the DreamCloud Premier aims to ease tension and help sleepers maintain good spinal alignment.

How It Performed

Combining the advantages of memory foam and innersprings, the DreamCloud Premier offers strong motion isolation, above-average edge support, and a responsive sleep surface that enables easy position changes.

The gel-infused memory foam is engineered to draw heat away from the surface of the bed, allowing it to dissipate through the coils in the support core. Because the coils are individually wrapped, the DreamCloud Premier makes little to no noise when bearing weight.

The mattress performs well for all sleeper types, but it performs especially well for side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, for whom the memory foam forms a pressure-relieving cradle that keeps the spine aligned.

Construction Breakdown

The DreamCloud Premier is a 14-inch hybrid model with a medium firm (6) feel. This mattress features a cashmere blend Euro-top cover quilted with two 1-inch and gel memory foam layers. A 2.5-inch polyfoam transitional layer helps prevent excessive sinkage. Rounding out the bed is an 8.5-inch layer of pocketed coils, with a polyfoam base for added stability.

Trial, Shipping, & Warranty

DreamCloud ships free to the contiguous U.S. and offers a 365-night sleep trial with a 30-night requirement. A limited lifetime warranty covers the mattress.

Best Value Mattress

Bear Original

7.9 /10

Test Lab Score

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With the Bear Original Mattress, you can get the benefits of high-quality memory foam without breaking the bank or breaking out in a sweat. Its gel-infused foam cushions your body without exaggerated sinkage, offering a firmer and more reliable sleep surface than many all-foam models.

Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab

Price

$649

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Firm (7)

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night break-in period)

At a Glance
  • Who It’s Best for: Side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds.
  • Feel: A firm (7) feel with more support and bounce than the average memory foam mattress, but the surface is fairly cushy and adaptive.
  • What It’s Made of: Straightforward design with a gel-infused memory foam comfort layer, transitional polyfoam, and high-density base foam.
  • What We Don’t Like
  • Limited edge support despite the firm design and strong off-gassing odor for the first few nights.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5/10

130-230 lbs

6.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 10000 validated customer reviews of the Bear Original. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Firmness and Comfort: Many reviewers find the Bear Original mattress to be on the firm side but still comfortable, providing a good balance of support and cushioning.
  • Pain Relief and Support: Users frequently report relief from back and neck pain. The mattress offers good support, which contributes to a more restful sleep and helps with physical recovery, especially noted by athletes and those with physically demanding lifestyles.
  • Adjustment Period: Some customers noted a need for an adjustment period where initially the mattress felt too firm, but became more comfortable after continuous use. This is typical, and we recommend using a mattress for at least two weeks before considering a return.
  • Temperature Regulation: There are some mixed reviews regarding temperature control; some users mention that the mattress does a good job at staying cool, while a few others still experience heat retention. This is most likley due to the memory foam featured in the mattress. If you’re a particularly hot sleeper, you may want to look elsewhere.
  • Ease of Setup: The mattress is easy to unbox and set up, and it quickly expands to its full size. Customers appreciate the ease of installation.
  • Customer Service: Bear’s customer service is frequently praised for being responsive and helpful, enhancing the overall buying and service experience.

Full Details

A high-quality gel mattress can be an expensive investment, but the Bear Original is a notable exception. The triple-layer design offers a firm (7) feel and exceptionally strong support for an all-foam model, making the mattress suitable for those who typically find this type of mattress too soft. During our tests, the Original also excelled in a few performance areas where plusher foam beds typically fall short.

How It Performed

Our testing team’s response to the Bear Original was overwhelmingly positive. Particularly strong ratings came from our side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds, back sleepers of at least 130 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. All of these testers remarked on the Original’s above-average support, comparing the mattress favorably to softer all-foam beds that often sink to an excessive extent.

During our motion isolation tests, we noticed little to no motion transfer when lying next to someone else on the mattress. This makes the Original a good choice for anyone whose sleep is frequently disrupted by their partner’s movements. Our temperature control tests revealed some heat buildup, but not as much as we’ve noticed with softer foam mattresses.

Construction Breakdown

The Bear Original’s topmost layer is composed of memory foam infused with graphite-based cooling gel intended to offset heat retention. An open-cell composition for the foam delivers additional breathability. Dense polyfoam makes up the transitional and support layers, reinforcing the firm feel to keep your body on an even plane. Altogether, the mattress measures 10 inches thick.

A cover made from Celliant-blend fabric encases the foam layers. Celliant is engineered to help you physically recover during sleep by converting your body heat into infrared energy. This material also feels cool to the touch and promotes comfortable temperature regulation throughout the night.

Trial, Shipping, & Warranty

In addition to an affordable sticker price, the Bear Original ships free of charge to customers in the contiguous U.S. Each order includes two free pillows, but you can upgrade this offer to a discounted bedding set that features both pillows along with a sheet set and mattress protector. Bear’s sleep trial runs for 120 nights. A lifetime manufacturer’s warranty covers structural defects for as long as you retain original ownership.

Best Luxury Mattress

Loom & Leaf

8.3 /10

Test Lab Score

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The most luxurious gel mattress is the Loom & Leaf, an all-foam mattress that delivers exceptional pressure relief and comfort. It is built with high-quality materials including organic cotton and gel-infused memory foam, and comes with the extra benefit of free White Glove delivery.

Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab

Price

$2,395

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Trial Period

365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)

At a Glance
  • Who It’s Best for: Side and back sleepers seeking a mattress that alleviates pain and pressure points.
  • Feel: Available in two supportive designs, medium firm (6) and firm (8).
  • What It’s Made of: Gel-infused memory foam reinforced with a gel foam lumbar pad, followed by transitional memory foam and two high-density polyfoam support layers.
  • What We Don’t Like: Expensive pricing is a barrier for budget-conscious shoppers and returns incur a $99 fee.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 595 validated customer reviews of the Loom & Leaf. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Quality of Materials: Users often mention the high quality of materials used in the Loom & Leaf mattress, suggesting that it contributes to the overall comfort and durability of the product.
  • Temperature Control: Reviewers appreciate the cooling technology of the mattress, which helps in maintaining a comfortable sleeping temperature throughout the night.
  • Customer Service: There is frequent praise for the customer service provided by Saatva, the company behind Loom & Leaf. Customers describe the service as helpful, responsive, and accommodating.
  • Delivery and Setup: Positive comments are common regarding the delivery process. The white-glove delivery service, which includes setup and old mattress removal, is frequently highlighted as a significant benefit.
  • Price Value: Several users feel that the mattress provides good value for money, especially when compared to other high-end memory foam mattresses in the market.
  • Trial Period and Warranty: The generous trial period and warranty are often cited as key advantages, giving customers confidence in their purchase and satisfaction with the company’s support over time.

Full Details

With a unique construction that incorporates gel swirls for added lumbar support, the Loom & Leaf Mattress leverages all the advantages of gel foam to provide sleepers with pressure relief and versatility.

How It Performed

Side sleepers experience an excellent balance of support and pressure relief from the Loom & Leaf. The added lumbar support helps relieve pressure buildup for back sleepers, and the firm model provides support for stomach sleepers, preventing sinking in the midsection.

Memory foam is known for its ability to isolate motion, and the dense foams used in the Loom & Leaf help reduce disturbances for couples, particularly on the medium firm (6) model. Due to the gel infusions, the mattress sleeps cooler than traditional memory foam models. Our testers also found it relatively easy to switch positions and use the edges of the firm model.

Construction Breakdown

The Loom & Leaf Mattress by Saatva is a 12-inch model sold in two firmness options: medium firm (6) and firm (8). Both models include an organic cotton cover with antimicrobial treatment and a non-toxic thistle fire barrier.

In the center third of the mattress, a spinal zone gel layer offers cooling lumbar support. This sits atop a layer of gel-infused memory foam and a second, denser layer of pressure-relieving memory foam. A high-density polyfoam base provides stability and support.

Trial, Shipping, & Warranty

Saatva offers free White Glove delivery in the contiguous U.S., and customers can also add on old mattress removal at the time of checkout for no additional fee. The Loom & Leaf has a lifetime warranty and a 365-night sleep trial. Returned mattresses are subject to a $99 fee.

Most Comfortable Mattress

Nectar Premier

8.8 /10

Test Lab Score

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Our choice for the most comfortable gel mattress is the Nectar Premier. It offers exceptional pressure relief, cushioning your joints and other high-impact areas. With cooling features like gel-infused foam, it also reduces overheating so that you can feel at ease at bedtime.

Best Gel Mattress - Most Comfortable Mattress - Nectar Premier

Price

$949

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

365 nights (30-night requirement)

At a Glance
  • Who It’s Best for: Side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds, as well as couples and people with back pain.
  • Feel: Medium firm (6) design with light contouring and decent pushback for an all-foam mattress.
  • What It’s Made of: A comfort layer of memory foam infused with cooling gel and phase change material, followed by dense polyfoam transitional and base layers.
  • What We Don’t Like: Limited edge support and strong initial off-gassing.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 5417 validated customer reviews of the Nectar Premier. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Minimal Motion Transfer: Couples often mention the mattress does a good job of isolating movement, allowing for undisturbed sleep.
  • Improved Sleep Quality: Reviewers frequently note better sleep quality, with less tossing and turning and more restful nights.
  • Temperature Regulation: Several users appreciate the cooling features of the mattress, noting it helps keep them cool throughout the night.
  • Firmness: The mattress is often described as having the right balance of firmness and softness, accommodating various sleeping positions.
  • Durability and Quality: Customers are generally satisfied with the build quality and durability of the mattress.
  • Price Value: Many reviewers feel the mattress offers great value for the price, comparing favorably to more expensive brands.

Full Details

If you’re in the market for a memory foam mattress that doesn’t retain as much heat as competing models, the Nectar Premier is a worthy option. Foam beds are known for trapping heat, but this model is designed with cooling features that help regulate temperature on the surface.

How It Performed

During testing, we found the Premier had a medium firm (6) feel and provided ample cushioning for side sleepers along the shoulders and hips. This can improve spinal alignment and ease discomfort that often comes from using this sleep position. The mattress is also well suited to back sleepers, who need cushioning along the spine and support for the lower back.

Motion isolation is a strength of the Premier. The foams absorb movement and prevent it from spreading across the surface, making the mattress a good option for people who wake up easily from their sleep partner’s movements.

Construction Breakdown

The mattress is constructed with a 3-inch memory foam comfort layer that molds closely to evenly distribute your weight and reduce pressure in sensitive areas of your body. This layer is infused with cooling gel and phase change material to make the mattress suitable for hot sleepers. Transitional and base layers of high-density polyfoam reinforce the comfort layer to help maintain an even surface for your body.

Trial, Shipping, & Warranty

The mattress is fairly expensive compared to other all-foam models, but Nectar will ship it for free anywhere in the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive 365 days to test out the mattress, along with a lifetime warranty.

Best Mattress for Back Pain

WinkBed

8.9 /10

Test Lab Score

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With a hybrid design that balances both cushioning and spinal support, the WinkBed is our pick for the best gel mattress for back pain. It includes two distinct gel foam layers that relieve pressure around the joints, and a robust base of coils prevents sinkage and supports the lower back.

Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab

Price

$1,499

Mattress Type

Innerspring

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)

Trial Period

120 nights (30 night requirement)

At a Glance
  • Who It’s Best for: Side, back, and stomach sleepers across different body types – but it’s important to choose a firmness that aligns with your weight and preferred position.
  • Feel: Available in adaptive medium soft (4), balanced medium firm (6), robust firm (7), and bouncy “Plus” (8) designs. All offer targeted midsection support.
  • What It’s Made of: Standard WinkBed mattresses contain adaptive polyfoam comfort layers, while the Plus is constructed with zoned latex. All designs feature zoned pocketed coil support cores with perimeter reinforcement.
  • What We Don’t Like: Couples may notice motion transfer on softer models, while side sleepers may find the firmest options too stiff.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 8573 validated customer reviews of the Winkbed. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Pain Relief and Support: A significant number of users report alleviation of back, hip, and shoulder pain, attributing this to the mattress’s supportive design. Individuals with chronic back issues have noted substantial improvements in sleep quality.
  • Comfort Across Sleep Positions: Reviewers from various sleep positions—side, back, and stomach—find the mattress comfortable. The availability of different firmness levels allows users to select options that best suit their sleeping style.
  • Temperature Regulation: Many customers appreciate the mattress’s ability to stay cool, enhancing overall comfort throughout the night.
  • Edge Support: Users frequently mention the robust edge support, which provides a stable and usable sleeping surface across the entire mattress.
  • Firmness Options: Customers appreciate the variety of firmness options available, finding the right balance for their personal preferences.
  • Durability and Craftsmanship: The mattress is often praised for its high-quality construction and materials, with users expressing confidence in its longevity. The lifetime warranty further reinforces trust in the product’s durability.
  • Customer Service and Trial Experience: Customers value the 120-night risk-free trial and responsive customer service, noting that these factors contribute to a positive purchasing experience.

Full Details

The WinkBed is available in four firmness options, all of which feature a thick foam or latex comfort system paired with sturdy coils. This balanced design is a good fit for sleepers with back pain, since it cushions you in all the right spots while still generating enough support to keep your lower back from sinking.

How It Performed

Thanks to the multiple firmness options, everyone on our testing team found a model that suited their body type and sleep preferences. The softer models earned higher ratings from the side and back sleepers on our team, especially those who weigh up to 230 pounds, while the firmer models were a better fit for stomach sleepers or side and back sleepers over 230 pounds.

Many mattresses with foam layers tend to trap heat during our tests, but the WinkBed was a notable exception. Thanks to the breathable cover and steady airflow through the coils, our hot sleepers noticed minimal heat buildup. We also recommend the mattress for couples, since the surface was fairly easy to roll across for sex and the sturdy edge support allowed for maximum surface use.

Construction Breakdown

The WinkBed is available in medium soft (4), medium firm (6), firm (7), and firm (8) options. The three softer models begin with a Euro-top cover quilted with gel-infused polyfoam, giving the surface a plush feel that contours to the body and alleviates pressure. This is followed by a transitional polyfoam layer that prevents you from sinking too deeply into the mattress. The firmest model starts with a high-density polyfoam layer followed by a thick latex layer, generating firmer support.

In all models, pocketed coils in a zoned configuration make up the support core. Thicker coils are placed beneath the midsection to reduce sagging and promote spinal alignment. Perimeter reinforcement bolsters the edges, preventing it from sinking when you sleep near the edges or get in and out of bed. A breathable and moisture-wicking Tencel cover encases the mattress.

Trial, Shipping, & Warranty

WinkBed offers free shipping to customers living in the contiguous U.S. and a 120-night sleep trial. If you decide to keep the mattress after the trial, it is backed by a generous lifetime warranty covering structural defects.

Best Cooling Mattress

Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe

9.2 /10

Test Lab Score

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Stop waking up in a sweat with the help of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress. With gel foam and other advanced cooling features, the Aurora Luxe sleeps cool while also providing significant comfort and back support.

Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab

Price

$1,586

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

At a Glance
  • Who It’s Best for: Side and back sleepers who sleep hot and want extra support around their midsection.
  • Feel: Available in medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (7) designs.
  • What It’s Made of: Memory foam infused with cooling gel and copper fibers, followed by transitional foam and zoned pocketed coils with perimeter reinforcement.
  • What We Don’t Like: Strong off-gassing odor for up to 72 hours after the mattress is unboxed.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 3474 validated customer reviews of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Height and Thickness: Many reviewers mention the mattress being taller or thicker than anticipated, requiring adjustments like new bed sheets.
  • Comfort and Support: Consistent mentions of the mattress providing good support and comfort, suitable for various sleeping positions and body types.
  • Cooling Features: A significant number of people appreciate the cooling aspect of the mattress, which is particularly beneficial for hot sleepers.
  • Firmness Levels: Some reviewers note discrepancies in the expected versus actual firmness levels, with some finding the mattresses softer than anticipated.
  • Edge Support: Mixed reviews on edge support, with some finding it adequate and others noting it could be improved. We found it to be relatively average for a hybrid
  • Material Quality: Reviews often mention the high quality of materials, though some note issues with sheets slipping off due to the sleekness of the mattress cover.
  • Smell and Off-Gassing: Some mention a noticeable smell upon unpacking that dissipates over time.

Full Details

Gel mattresses are known for their cooling properties, but the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe stands apart from other gel-infused beds for its exceptional cooling features. This model should feel comfortable for most sleepers who overheat or sweat a lot at night.

How It Performed

Between the multiple firmness options and the even balance of support and cushioning, our test team found the Aurora Luxe to be suitable for a wide range of sleepers. Side sleepers gravitated toward the two softer models, while back sleepers benefited more from the two firmer models. Stomach sleepers who weigh above 130 pounds found the firm model ideal for preventing their midsection from sagging into the bed.

Hot sleepers should have no problem staying cool with the Aurora Luxe, since air circulates freely through the bed’s interior and the foam layers are designed with cooling gel. The surface is also infused with TitanCool, a phase change material that’s meant to further minimize heat retention. For an additional fee, you can upgrade your mattress with an extra foam layer known as the “Cloud” pillow-top. This layer makes the surface feel noticeably softer, but may also reduce the mattress’ heat-dissipating abilities.

Construction Breakdown

The mattress is available in three firmness options that correspond to medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (7) on our firmness scale. All models begin with a cushioned layer of CopperFlex, a proprietary gel-infused foam that contours to the body. Beneath is a TitanFlex foam layer with a moderately bouncy feel, followed by a gel-infused memory foam layer in the two softer models and a firmer VariFlex foam layer in the firm model. Rounding out the construction is a support core of pocketed coils.

Trial, Shipping, & Warranty

Brooklyn Bedding offers customers 120 nights to try out the mattress. You may return the bed within this timeframe for a full refund. The bed is backed by a lifetime warranty and the mattress ships free to addresses in the contiguous U.S.

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers

Puffy Lux Hybrid

8.3 /10

Test Lab Score

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Side sleepers have unique support needs, and the Puffy Lux Hybrid is well-suited to meet them. Its multi-layered comfort system, which includes two layers of gel-infused foam, accommodates the hips and shoulders so that side sleepers can maintain a healthy spinal alignment throughout the night.

Best Gel Mattress - Best Mattress for Side Sleepers - Puffy Lux Hybrid

Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab

Price

$1,399

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium (5)

Trial Period

101 nights (14-night break-in period)

At a Glance
  • Who It’s Best for: Side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds.
  • Feel: Gentle medium (5) feel with deep contouring and cradling.
  • What It’s Made of: Breathable fibers quilted to the cover, two comfort layers of gel-infused memory foam, transitional polyfoam, and a high-density foam base.
  • What We Don’t Like: Too soft and lacking in support for most back and stomach sleepers who weigh 130 pounds or more.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

5.5/10

Above 230 lbs

4.5/10

Full Details

The Puffy Lux Mattress features adaptive foams that closely cradle your body, bringing relief to pressure-sensitive areas. The generous cushioning is a good fit for side sleepers, especially those who tend to wake up with sore joints.

How It Performed

Side sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds should find the mattress particularly comfortable, as this position generally needs more padding around the hips and shoulders to avoid painful pressure buildup. Meanwhile the coils deliver enough support to the lumbar region to maintain healthy sleep posture. The coils also promote airflow throughout the interior to offset some of the foam’s heat-absorbing tendencies and help the mattress sleep fairly cool. In addition to offering strong pressure relief, the adaptive foam layers also absorb a lot of movement to keep motion transfer to a minimum for co-sleepers.

Construction Breakdown

The comfort layer is composed of proprietary Cooling Cloud gel-infused foam that contours closely to the body but is engineered to retain a minimal amount of body heat. A second layer of Plush Dual Cloud offers extra conforming, while the denser Climate Comfort polyfoam transitional layer prevents you from sinking excessively. The support core contains individually pocketed coils that stabilize the mattress and prevent deep sinkage along the edges without making the surface feel too stiff or generating disruptive motion transfer. A base layer of high-density polyfoam adds extra reinforcement.

Most mattresses made today have non-removable covers that can only be spot-cleaned. In contrast, the Lux’s cover is removable and can be laundered in any household machine for easy care and optimal hygiene. The fabric is also stain-resistant.

Trial, Shipping, & Warranty

Delivery is free of charge for all customers in the contiguous U.S. Every purchase comes with a 101-night sleep trial that includes complimentary return shipping. Those who choose to keep the mattress also receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects.

Best Mattress for Pressure Relief

SweetNight Dreamy Gel Memory Foam

7.6 /10

Test Lab Score

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Getting enough pressure relief can require the right firmness and cushioning, and the SweetNight Dreamy Gel Memory Foam Mattress makes that easier with its unique design. Depending on how you position it, the mattress can have three different firmness levels, all of which provide dependable comfort from gel-infused foam.

Best Gel Mattress - Best Mattress for Pressure Relief - SweetNight Dreamy Gel Memory Foam

Price

$937

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Medium (5) Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

100 nights

At a Glance
  • Who It’s Best for: Side and back sleepers seeking a mattress with adjustable firmness.
  • Feel: This Dreamy Gel Memory Foam can feel medium soft (4), medium (5), or medium firm (6) depending on how the mattress is positioned.
  • What It’s Made of: A comfort layer of zoned adaptive polyfoam that can feel soft or firm depending on which end you sleep on. The opposite surface is even firmer for more support. A shared foam support core is located between the comfort systems.
  • What We Don’t Like: Edge support is limited, and people may sink and struggle moving across the surface.
Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

6/10

Above 230 lbs

4/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 421 validated customer reviews of the SweetNight Dreamy Gel Memory Foam. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Feel: Many users note the versatility of this mattress with four distinct feels, two on each surface. The mattress is also fairly light and easy to flip and rotate as needed.
  • Pressure Relief: Users seem satisfied with the adaptive feel and deep contour of this mattress. This is especially true for people who live with frequent pain and sharp pressure points.
  • Temperature Regulation: Temperature control is so-so for the Dreamy Gel Memory Foam. The cooling gel infusions are somewhat effective, but some users report excessive heat retention from their mattress.
  • Motion Isolation: Couples praise the Dreamy Gel Memory Foam for its ability to absorb movement and isolate motion transfer. This appears to be the case with both sides of the mattress.
  • Customer Service: Some users report positive interactions with SweetNight. For others, the company can be hard to reach when issues arise.

Full Details

The Dreamy Gel Memory Foam from Sweet Night is a reversible mattress with adaptive, pressure-relieving layers on each side. One surface feels noticeably softer when you rotate the mattress 180 degrees for even more customization. Dual-sided mattresses tend to be pricey, but the Dreamy is also affordably priced compared to many competing models.

How It Performed

During our tests, the Dreamy’s medium firm (6) side was a hit among our side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds, back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. This surface feels reasonably supportive and shouldn’t sink too much. Side and back sleepers under 130 pounds preferred the opposite side, which feels medium soft (4) or medium (5) depending how your body is positioned. Either way, you’ll notice deep cushioning and contouring.

The Dreamy offers excellent overall pressure relief. Your preferred feel will likely depend on how much you weigh and which sleep position you prefer, but our tests show most people across different sleeper types should experience less pressure. Motion isolation is also a strong area for this mattress, meaning fewer sleep disturbances for you and your sleep partner when the other person moves in bed.

Construction Breakdown

The Prime mattress is constructed with four distinct layers: gel-infused memory foam, transitional polyfoam, polyfoam, and high-density polyfoam. These layers are curved to create a dual-firmness design, offering two different sleep experiences in one mattress. One side provides a more adaptive surface, with close contouring that feels medium soft (4) at one end and medium (5) at the other. Flipping the mattress reveals a firmer, more supportive surface, with one end feeling medium firm (6) and the other very firm (8).

Trial, Shipping, & Warranty

SweetNight provides several delivery options for customers in the contiguous U.S., including free ground shipping via FedEx. The Prime mattress comes with a 100-night sleep trial, allowing you to test it before committing. If you decide to keep the mattress, it is backed by a 10-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects.

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What Is a Gel Mattress?

A gel mattress contains at least one layer of gel-infused memory foam or polyfoam in the comfort system. Generally found in the form of beads or swirls, the gel infusions are intended to help regulate temperature by absorbing heat and pulling it away from the bed’s surface.

As a result, gel mattresses often sleep cooler than traditional memory foam models. Gel foam may also feature perforations or an open-cell design to further enhance airflow. And the gel-infused foam layers can be paired with a polyfoam support core or with innerspring coils in the case of a gel hybrid mattress. There may also be other layers in the comfort system.

Why Is Temperature Regulation Important for Quality Sleep?

A mattress with good temperature regulation helps maintain a cool, comfortable sleep surface, allowing you to sleep longer and more soundly. Whether you’re a hot sleeper or just want a more refreshing sleep environment, choosing a mattress with breathable materials, cooling technologies, or gel infusions can make a significant difference in improving sleep quality and comfort. 

“The body’s temperature normally dips overnight, in tandem with the natural cooling that occurs in the environment. Cooling leads to deeper sleep, reducing wakefulness and optimizing the restorative qualities of sleep.”
Dr. Brandon Peters
Dr. Brandon Peters
Sleep Physician, Sleep Psychiatry Expert

How to Choose the Best Gel Mattress

Buying a gel mattress comes with special considerations. Gel is a proprietary material that differs in its makeup from manufacturer to manufacturer, which sometimes makes it challenging to compare and contrast models. That said, there are several key points that can help you identify the mattress that best fits your needs.

Temperature Regulation

The aim of gel memory foam is to provide the pressure-relieving properties of memory foam without the heat retention. Different manufacturers accomplish this to different extents. Gel memory foam rarely sleeps as cool as latex or wool, but it may be a good option for hot sleepers who need a cooling mattress and like the feel of memory foam.

Firmness Level

Although there are exceptions, gel memory foam mattresses are usually medium soft to medium firm, or between a 4 and 6 on our 10-point firmness scale. This range is suitable for most sleeper types, particularly side sleepers and back sleepers who weigh less than 230 pounds. Stomach sleepers, or those over 230 pounds, may prefer a thinner layer of gel foam over firmer layers of polyfoam or latex for additional support.

Pressure Relief and Contouring

Gel foam usually contours quite closely to the sleeper, helping to distribute weight and prevent pressure points. These are areas, like the shoulders, lower back, and hips, where the body presses more heavily into the mattress, potentially causing discomfort. 

In concert with a supportive base, this material can also contribute to proper spinal alignment. People who often wake up with aches and pains may want to consider a mattress with a thicker comfort system.

Contouring refers to the ability of a material to wrap around your body. Memory foam contours more closely than polyfoam, though you can find gel options in either. A certain amount of contouring is necessary to relieve pressure points, but too much contouring may allow excessive sinking that compromises spinal support.

“​​Ideally, the spine would be held in neutral alignment; too much sagging may lead to pain that develops overnight due to the strain of misalignment.”
Dr. Brandon Peters
Dr. Brandon Peters
Sleep Physician, Sleep Psychiatry Expert

Sleeping Position

Memory foam is best known for relieving pressure points, and gel mattresses are often favored by side sleepers looking to ease pain in the hips and shoulders. Gel foam can also help to reduce tension when sleeping on your back. On the other hand, stomach sleepers may find a gel foam mattress too plush and not supportive enough.

Price

You can expect to pay a little more for a gel mattress compared to a regular foam mattress. However, gel mattresses are available at a wide range of price-points, so most shoppers should be able to find a mattress that fits their budget. All-foam models generally cost less than gel hybrids, and extra features or additional layers may raise the price.

Quality Materials

Mattresses made with higher-quality materials can be more expensive, but they usually last longer. And while denser foams tend to hold up better to pressure, they may also trap more heat.

Motion Isolation

Couples should find that gel memory foam helps absorb movement to reduce nighttime disruptions. However, the base of the mattress also plays a role in motion isolation. Mattresses with polyfoam support cores tend to isolate motion better than those with coils, although hybrids with individually wrapped coils also perform fairly well.

Edge Support

Edge support is mostly determined by the support core. Foam mattresses may compress more around the perimeter, while hybrids generally hold up better, especially if they have reinforced edges. When evaluating a mattress for edge support, be aware that mattresses with thicker, plusher comfort systems are likely to sag more around the edges. This may limit usable space and make it more difficult to get in and out of bed.

Off-Gassing

Because it’s synthetic, gel foam may emit off-gassing odors when it’s first unboxed. These occur as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released into the air. The scent usually dissipates after a few days, but if you are sensitive to smell, you may want to find a mattress with less off-gassing. Mattresses made with lower-density foams or those that incorporate space for airflow usually air out faster.

Third-party organizations like CertiPUR-US and Greenguard test mattresses for their emission levels and grant certifications to mattresses that meet their criteria, which can provide some peace of mind.

What Type of Mattresses Feature Gel?

Gel mattresses typically come in all-foam or hybrid options. 

Hybrid

Definition: Hybrid mattresses combine the best features of innerspring and all-foam mattresses. They consist of a pocketed coil-based support core topped by a multilayered comfort system that can feature memory foam, latex, or a combination of the two. 

Highlight: Hybrids offer more contouring and pressure relief than innersprings, making them a good fit for side and back sleepers. A hybrid with gel foam is ideal for hot sleepers because it combines the heat-dissipating qualities of gel with the breathability of a coil core. 

Foam

Definition: Foam mattresses feature multiple layers and types of foam, such as memory foam, polyfoam, and gel-infused foam. For support, they rely on a strong polyfoam core. 
Highlight: All-foam models are great for side sleepers because they offer deep contouring and soothing pressure relief. If you love the hug of memory foam but hate the heat buildup, then a gel-infused model is likely a good fit.

How Does It Feel to Sleep on a Gel Mattress?

Gel infusions can be added to various types of foam, with the primary intent of making it sleep cooler. This versatile material may therefore appeal to many different sleeper types, especially those with a tendency to overheat or those who live in warmer climates.

  • Gel memory foam: Gel memory foam contours more closely and provides a classic hug-like feel. 
  • Gel polyfoam: Gel-infused polyfoam varies in firmness, but it is almost always more responsive than memory foam, and it doesn’t tend to conform as closely. 
  • Other configurations: Some mattresses also use different formats such as gel pods, ridged cutouts, or a thicker layer in the lumbar section to modify the mattress’ performance.

Whereas many mattresses are made with a single layer of gel foam over a foam or coil base, mattresses may also have a thinner layer of gel foam tucked between other layers of wool, polyfoam, or other materials. All of these design variations can alter the feel of the bed.

How We Test: Your Comfort Is Our Science

Our industry-leading product testing team cares deeply about improving your sleep. Having a holistic understanding of a mattress’s role as part of a sleep system is paramount to our testing process. Since a bed’s comfort and feel depend largely on body weight and sleeping position, our testing team represents a wide range of body types, sleep positions, and comfort preferences.

In our Seattle-based Test Lab, we use an objective, hands-on process to evaluate mattresses across performance categories. The following are the key guidelines that inform our performance ratings. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best purchase decision for you.

Construction analysis: We begin testing each mattress by analyzing its design and making note firmness, height, individual layer composition, and sticker price. This allows us to evaluate qualities like support, durability, and value.

Product testing: Firsthand testing is crucial to our evaluation and ratings system. We use a wide range of tools and technology to test mattresses in six performance categories: motion isolation, pressure relief, temperature control, ease of movement, edge support, and odor potential.

Field testing: In addition to lab-based tests, we base our ratings on feedback from field testers who use the mattresses in their own homes. They spend several weeks collecting data — this gives us insights into how the mattress performs night after night for an extended period.

User testing: We curate feedback verified owners have provided in surveys, sleep stories, and product reviews. This helps us evaluate our initial findings and, if needed, tweak our ratings to reflect real-world experiences.

How We Determine Our Overall Scores

To determine a mattress’s overall score, we assign weighted percentages to performance categories based on how important they are to the individual sleep experience. For instance, areas like pressure relief and temperature control tend to matter more to people than something like off-gassing, and because more people sleep on their side and back than on their stomach, we weigh those positions more heavily.

Performance Categories

Motion Isolation

This refers to the amount of motion a mattress absorbs when a sleeper moves on the surface.  To evaluate motion isolation, we use two testers lying side by side who each feel for transfer while the other person moves on the mattress.

Temperature Control

To determine how well a mattress regulates temperature, we perform temperature tests and look closely at its materials and construction. Many mattresses are designed with cooling components meant to reduce heat retention.

Pressure Relief

A bed with strong pressure relief excels at preventing pressure from building up in areas like the shoulders and hips. Beds with even contouring and weight distribution are top performers when it comes to pressure relief.

Off-Gassing

A mattress in a box may release unpleasant chemical odors for a short period after you’ve unboxed it. The initial smell may be strong but typically fades within 2 or 3 days.

Ease of Movement

This reflects how easily a sleeper can move across a bed’s surface. Responsive surfaces made of latex typically perform better than foam surfaces, which can inhibit movement.

Edge Support

We perform sit tests along a bed’s perimeter to measure how well the edges push back against weight. Mattresses with strong edge support have minimal sagging when sleepers sit on or lie close to the perimeter.

Dive Deeper – Mattress Guides by Type

If you’d like to refine your search for a bed beyond a gel mattress, read through our other guides categorized by mattress type.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the pros and cons of a gel mattress?

Gel mattresses aim to offer a cooler sleep experience, which can raise the price-point compared to regular foam mattresses. Gel foam is a good option for sleepers who like the pressure-relieving, motion-isolating feel of memory foam or polyfoam but don’t like sleeping hot.

Because gel must be added to either memory foam or polyfoam, gel mattresses may not be attractive to shoppers who prefer natural materials or those who are sensitive to off-gassing smells.

How much does a gel mattress cost?

The average price of a gel mattress runs from about $800 to $2,000, though there are plenty of models that fall outside of this range. Foam mattresses are among the cheapest options, while hybrids may be more expensive. Although gel foam is more expensive than regular memory foam or polyfoam, gel mattresses usually cost less than natural latex mattresses.

Pricing can change depending on the brand, the design of the mattress, the quality of the materials, and the shipping and return policies. If you want the feel of gel foam but not the investment in a new mattress, a gel foam mattress topper may also be an option.

How long does a gel mattress last?

On average, buyers can expect a foam or hybrid mattress to last 6 to 8 years if properly cared for. As with all mattresses, the comfort system generally starts to break down before the support core. As a comfort layer, gel foam is not the most durable material, especially in its plusher iterations. However, regularly rotating the mattress from head to foot can delay the onset of permanent body indentations. Using a mattress protector can also help extend the lifespan by shielding the material against accidents.

Still have questions?

Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.

Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

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