The Best Mattresses For Platform Beds, According To Sleep Experts

Type: Memory foam or hybrid | Firmness: Medium-firm (6.5) | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 365 nights | Warranty: Lifetime

Pros:

• Available in memory foam and hybrid versions
• Comfortable for back and side sleepers
• Lengthy trial and warranty periods

Cons:

• The hybrid version is more expensive
• Not made in the USA

With a breathable copper cover, 14 inches of premium materials and the option to choose between hybrid or memory foam, it’s no surprise the Nectar Premier Copper is a fan-favorite. While the hybrid model is slightly more expensive than its counterpart, it might be worth it for those who prefer additional support or don’t like the feeling of sinking into a mattress. The signature cover (which tops both models) features copper fibers that the manufacturer says are designed to dispel heat and wick away excess body moisture.

The key difference between the memory foam and hybrid options lies in the construction. For instance, foam makes up the entirety of the memory foam mattress. The 7-inch stability base layer creates the foundation for better sleep and allows the layers above to perform at their peak. Three inches of foam in the center promote better spinal alignment and provides airflow and therapeutic gel-infused foam near the top reacts to your temperature and contours to every curve for support.

Even though the hybrid model isn’t constructed completely of foam, it still includes several foam layers for comfort and optimal spinal alignment. Sitting atop the base layer are 8 inches of individually wrapped coils that have minimal motion transfer and superior edge-to-edge support that responds to your body’s curves. The coils also allow for additional airflow through the mattress.

What our writers say: After testing the memory foam model, Forbes Vetted contributor Lindsay Vickers notes she finds the sink-in feeling pleasant, even as someone who prefers a firmer mattress. However, she thinks the bed is most comfortable when sleeping on her side or back, and notes it also retains some heat.

Type: Hybrid | Firmness: Medium-firm (6.5) | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 365 nights | Warranty: Lifetime

Pros:

• Excellent trial period and lifetime warranty
• Budget-friendly

Cons:

• It may be too soft for some sleepers
• Not made in the USA

If comfort is your main concern, The Dreamcloud could be the ideal fit. With the perfect combination of squishy memory foam and supportive coils, it’s one of the company’s best-selling models. One inch of gel-infused memory foam hugs your body and adapts to your curves, while 2 inches of standard foam encourages proper spinal alignment and ensures you’ll never feel the springs. Each of the springs are wrapped separately, allowing them to move independently.

In fact, it’s highly recommended for couples, thanks to the coils’ ability to minimize motion transfer—so you no longer have to worry about your partner’s restless tossing and turning. From top to bottom, each layer was designed to be breathable, from the cashmere blend cover to the cooling memory foam.

This 14-inch hybrid mattress is compatible with any solid surface bed base and is lofty enough to help you get in and out of bed comfortably. It’s rated a 6.5 out of 10 for a medium-firm feel ideal for many sleepers. Plus, at under $700, it’s an excellent value. Don’t forget about the generous one-year trial and lifetime warranty. 

What our editors say: Forbes Vetted mattress and sleep editor McKenzie Dillon says, “It’s one of the best mattresses you can buy for the price. It’s made with memory foam, but has more of a blended foam feel that’s easy to move around on. And the pillow top makes it feel ultra luxurious.” For more, check out our Dreamcloud mattress review.

Type: Hybrid | Firmness: Soft (3), medium (5) or firm (7) | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 120 nights | Warranty: 10 years

Pros:

• Excellent value for the price
• Choice of preferred firmness level

Cons:

• Some might not find the firm hard enough
• Cooling cloud pillow top cover is only available as an additional upgrade

With multiple firmness levels to choose from and coming in under $1000, this Brooklyn Bedding model is a top choice for those on a budget. The brand states that it’s compatible with “any type of support support system that provides minimal to no flex.” including most platform and slat foundations. It comes in three comfort levels—soft is described as a 3 out of 10 and best suited for side sleepers, medium is a 5 and ideal for combination sleepers and the firm model is a 7 out of 10 and best for those who require additional lumbar support or for stomach and back sleepers.

The combination of coils and foam offer the best of both worlds and sits 12.25 inches tall with five layers. The coils are individually encased to move independently and offer target support and superior motion isolation. On the other hand, several foams are paired for ultimate response, contour and breathability. While the company sources top-of-the-line materials for this mattress, it’s able to keep costs low by making both the foam and coils in-house and shipping directly to the customer.

What our editor say: In her Brooklyn Bedding Signature review, mattress and sleep editor McKenzie Dillion says, the bed has “a responsive, plush and pressure-relieving feel that accommodates my partner and me, no matter which position we’re sleeping in.”

Type: Memory foam | Firmness: Firm (8) or extra-firm (10) | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 120 nights | Warranty: 10 years

Pros:

• Available in Olympic queen and short king sizes
• Flippable for two firmness levels and to improve longevity
• Endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association

Cons:

• Might not be thick enough for some low-profile platform beds
• Both sides of the mattress could be too firm for some

This is a mattress for those who only want the firmest of the firm. Brooklyn Bedding’s Plank mattress is a flippable option—one side is considered firm and rated 8 out of 10, while the company calls the opposite side ultra-firm and rates it a 10 out of 10. This flippable design is not only helpful to enjoy two firmness levels whenever you feel like it but can also improve the longevity of your mattress. The company states “any type of support system that provides minimal to no flex will work with our mattress,” including a platform frame.

This foam mattress is also endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association, which concluded that the extra firm support is vital in reducing spinal stress, improving lumbar support and alleviating back pain. All of the brand's foams are thick and dense to provide additional backing for hips and shoulders.

As for the construction, each side is covered with a quilted layer to ensure minimal to no loft (depending on whether it’s the firm or extra-firm side). The middle of the mattress is made up of 6 inches of high-density support foam, which is the firmest option with the added benefit of deep compression support, and 2 inches of responsive foam crafted to contour while allowing a firm feel. The breathable foams all have open cell technology.

What our writers say: Forbes Vetted contributor Lindsay Vickers confirms it’s one of the firmest mattresses she’s ever felt and even found it comfortable when lying on her stomach, thanks to the cushioned uppermost layer.

Type: Hybrid | Firmness: Medium (5 to 6) | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 100 nights | Warranty: 15 years

Pros:

• Specially designed with support for side sleepers
• Cooling cover upgrade available for those who sleep hot
• Greenguard Gold and Certipur-US certifications

Cons:

• 100-night trial period is shorter than most
• Some sleepers find it too soft

The Helix Midnight Luxe is specially designed to relieve pressure points for side sleepers and those who toss and turn all night. Sleeping on your side is known without sufficient support can cause shoulder or hip pain. However, this hybrid mattress is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association for its premium workmanship and alignment support. The Luxe models include zoned lumbar support to provide a softer feel for your shoulders and firm support under your hips. This combination helps cradle the body and align the spine.

Six layers make up the 13.5-inch mattress, starting with dense foam on the bottom to create a durable base. Just above that sits individually wrapped coils with reinforced support and edge support for structural stability. The following three layers are made of memory foam to contour your body, followed by a cooling pillow top to keep you comfortable.

The company rates the Midnight Luxe a level 5 to 6, with 10 being the firmest. It is assembled in the U.S., is Greenguard Gold Certified and made with Certipur-US certified foams. This guarantees the highest quality for every mattress and ensures they’re made without any harmful chemicals, including ozone-depleting substances, flame retardants, mercury, lead, heavy metals or formaldehyde. The Helix warranty requires your platform bed frame to have a flat, sturdy support and no more than 5 inches of space between slats.

What our writers say: After trying the Helix Midnight Luxe in a showroom, Forbes Vetted contributor Vickers says, “It has a good amount of cradling and sink-in sensation, which is what makes it shine for side sleeping, in particular.” She also notes that it had excellent motion transfer, making it ideal for couples who share a bed. For more, read our Helix Midnight Luxe review.

Type: Innerspring | Firmness: Plush soft (3), luxury firm (5 to 7) or firm (8) | Delivery: Free white glove delivery | Trial: 365 nights | Warranty: Lifetime

Pros:

• Choose from several firmness levels and height profiles
• Free removal of old mattress and foundation
• Foam has Certipur-US certification

Cons:

• $99 processing fee to return during the trial
• Takes several weeks to ship

The most versatile mattress on our list is the Saatva Classic, making it ideal for nearly every person, need and sleeping style. To start, customers choose their preferred firmness level. According to the company, the plush soft is rated a 3 out of 10 and is ideal for side sleepers who need extra pressure relief. The luxury firm falls within the 5 to 7 firmness range and is recommended for any sleep position or couples who have differing comfort levels. Finally, the firm option is rated an 8 out of 10 and is geared toward those who enjoy lying on top of the mattress rather than sinking in. 

What’s more, you can also choose between the 11.5-inch or 14.5-inch height, which is helpful for those who need a certain depth to get in and out of bed easier. It’s also available in nearly every size from twin up to split California king. The company approves each option for use “on a platform bed with a solid surface or horizontal slats spaced less than 4 inches apart with proper center support.” 

The combination of five layers of innersprings and foam not only provides a responsive feel but also cushioned comfort and pressure relief. It has an extra layer dense foam in the lumbar zone, which is intended to keep your spine in healthy alignment. It also has high-density foam rails for stable edge support and optimal airflow.

What our writers say: “The Saatva Classic checked off all my boxes,” shared deals writer Jordan Thomas. “It’s supportive but still comfortable, breathable and provides great edge support.” Read our Saatva Classic review for further insights.

Type: Memory foam | Firmness: Medium | Delivery: White glove delivery | Trial: 90 nights | Warranty: 10 years

Pros:

• White glove delivery
• Available in unique sizes, including split king and split California king

Cons:

• The 90-night trial is shorter than others in a similar price range
• It’s expensive

It’s no surprise Tempur-Pedic is a name nearly synonymous with memory foam, considering NASA originally developed its proprietary material. The company claims they’ve developed this proprietary material over decades to precisely conform and respond to each individual’s weight, shape and temperature while sleeping for personalized comfort. While it’s only available in a medium feel, customers also have the option of choosing a medium feel hybrid model that combines the Tempur material with coils. So, it’s ideal whether you prefer the feeling of sinking into a mattress or require additional support from innersprings.

In addition, this mattress is designed to keep sleepers five degrees cooler than other memory foam mattresses. The layers include innovative cooling material that pulls heat away from your body, a heat-diffusing layer to absorb excess heat and a removable, machine-washable cool-to-the-touch cover. This cooling feature is especially helpful when paired with a solid platform bed, as it naturally retains more heat. Memory foam mattresses generally work extremely well with platform beds as long as the frame has the necessary support required by the mattress company. For example, Tempur-Pedic approves this mattress for use with a platform bed as long the slats are at least 3 inches thick and less than 4 inches apart.

What the reviews say: “We have slept on our mattress for over a month now,” reports a couple. “We both fall asleep within 5-10 minutes. This mattress is super comfortable and not as warm as our last Tempur-Pedic. My husband is typically hot and I am typically cold. This mattress has just the right temperature for both of us.”

Type: Hybrid | Firmness: Soft (4.5), luxury firm (6.5), firm (7.5) or plus (8) | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 120 nights | Warranty: Lifetime

Pros:

• Available in four firmness levels, including an option for heavier people
• Free delivery and returns

Cons:

• It is heavy and may require more than one person to unbox
• The “plus” firmness level costs more

Whether you prefer a soft, medium or extra firm option, the Winkbed has options to suit every person. The company recommends the soft (rated a 4.5 out of 10) for side sleepers, the luxury firm (rated a 6.5) for those who want a balance of contour and support, the firm (rated a 7.5) for back and stomach sleepers who require extra support and the plus comfort level (rated an 8 out of 10) for heavier people or those who want maximum edge support. 

A platform bedframe is the perfect companion for the Winkbed, and the company strongly suggests an option with a rigid center support. The mattress is specifically recommended for those who want both cushioning and support, who sleep hot and prefer a breathable option and those with back, hip or shoulder pain.

This hybrid mattress is comprised of four unique parts, with coils and foam making up the majority. The individually wrapped pocket springs work by flexing independently, while multiple support zones target back support. A layer of pressure-relieving foam sits on top of the springs to provide support to your body. The mattress is topped with stabilizing gel foam, and is designed to reduce motion transfer and disturbance. If you commonly toss and turn, you don’t have to worry about feeling like you may roll off, thanks to the firm support around the outer edges of the mattress. Lastly, the Tencel cover is soft and cool

What the reviews say: “After nearly a year of research and hours of video reviews watched later, I realized I made the right choice with my WinkBed,” says one customer. “We’ve had it for 7 months, and my husband and I both love it. We’ve already purchased an additional mattress for my mom.”

Type: Hybrid | Firmness: Medium-firm | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 100 nights | Warranty: 15 years

Pros:

• Designed specifically to support big and tall people
• Assembled in the USA

Cons:

• 100-night trial period may not be long enough to adequately determine whether it’s an ideal fit
• The optional GlacioTex Cooling cover an additional $109 for those who sleep hot

The average mattress adequately supports a person weighing up to 250 pounds. However, there are plenty of people beyond that range, so Helix specifically designed the Plus model with a limit of 500 pounds per side or 1000 pounds total. It’s also the reason it tops our list of best mattresses for heavy people. Helix sourced high-density foam for this model to stand up to higher weights without sagging, dipping or sacrificing pressure point comfort. So you won’t sink in too far.

On top of the base layer of foam sits TitanCore steel coils durable enough for heavier weights. These individually wrapped coils are thicker than normal and are designed to cradle all sleepers and reduce motion transfer. As a bonus, it’s fitted with superior edge support surrounding the perimeter of the mattress for a better night's sleep or simply sitting on the bed to tie your shoes. For additional comfort, the Helix Plus is comprised of both high-responsive and dynamic foam for body contouring and long-lasting comfort. 

It’s rated a 6 to 7 out of 10, making it medium-firm with both pressure relief and support. The pressure relief is ideal for side sleepers, and the cradling comfort accommodates back and stomach sleepers. While the company approves this mattress to be used with a platform bed frame (as long as there are no more than 5 inches of space between slats), it’s important to ensure that any bed frame also accommodates higher weights. 

What our editors say: Executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers, who has tested many mattresses, slept on the Helix Plus for several months with her fiancé, who weighs over 250 pounds and deals with chronic back pain. They are combo sleepers who loved it and found it equally comfortable when sleeping on their backs and sides. While it felt more plush than other bed-in-a-box mattresses, she noted that it didn’t sink in.

Type: Latex | Firmness: Firm (7) | Delivery: Optional in-home delivery and setup | Trial: 365 nights | Warranty: 25 years

Pros:

• Generous trial and warranty period
• Ideal for allergy sufferers

Cons:

• Additional cost for the medium and plush options
• The 11-inch height may be too short for some when paired with a low-profile platform frame

While latex isn’t as well-known as memory foam, there are a ton of benefits, especially when paired with a platform bed frame. In general, latex is known for being hypoallergenic, bouncy without the sinking feeling and naturally cooler. Avocado recommends using this organic mattress with a rigid foundation, including a platform frame, with no more than five inches between slats. This mattress is a GOTS-certified organic product made with certified organic latex, wool, and cotton. Plus, it’s Greenguard Gold Certified for low emissions and verified to be formaldehyde-free.

The standard comfort level is firm, or 7 out of 10, which is ideal for back or stomach sleepers. However, it is also available in medium (6) or plush (4) for an additional fee. With the addition of over 1,000 steel coils, individually encased and arranged, this mattress offers superior ergonomic support. The combination of latex and coils reduces motion transfer, distributes weight more evenly and alleviates pressure points while contouring your curves. It’s also handmade in the United States for optimal quality control.

What our editors say: “I opted for the medium firmness with the pillow top, and I highly recommend the upgrade if you want a plush feel, but still need ample support,” says executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers. She notes that it’s super comfortable and great at isolating motion. Read our Avocado Green review for more.