Platform beds create a sturdy, level surface to support a range of mattresses without the need for a box spring. This type of bed frame comes in a seemingly endless variety of styles, suiting virtually any aesthetic. Shoppers looking to balance form and function often prefer the practical design of platform beds. However, finding the right mattress remains critical.
While the versatility of platform beds means compatible mattresses are widely available, it also means the selection can seem overwhelming. When choosing a mattress for your platform bed, it’s important to take into account your sleep style, body type, and comfort preferences.
We’ll do some of the work for you by providing recommendations for the best mattresses for platform beds based on our extensive in-house testing. We’ll also delve into greater detail about what a platform bed is and what to look for when shopping for a mattress to use with a platform bed.
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Stomach
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Sleep Doctor’s Picks
Best Overall
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud
Sleep Doctor
4.9
Details
Trial Length 90 nights (30-night requirement)
Warranty 10 Year, Limited
Trial Length / Warranty
90 nights (30-night requirement) / 10 Year, Limited
Type Foam
Firmness Medium (5)
Price $1,699 – $3,398
Sleep Doctor’s Take
Tempur-Pedic’s TEMPUR-Cloud is highly suited to platform beds thanks to its pressure-relieving all-foam design and mid-level profile. Our team’s hands-on testing shows this mattress provides deep cushioning for side sleepers and isolates motion for couples.
Highlights
- All-foam design contours closely and alleviates pressure points in sensitive areas
- Excellent motion isolation and no noise
- High-density materials resists wear and tear over time
Drawbacks
- Foam layers emit strong off-gassing after the mattress is unboxed
- Above-average pricing for a mattress in a box
The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud checks all of the important boxes for platform bed owners. Consisting of three foam layers, the medium-profile mattress excels at pressure relief and motion isolation, and the high-density materials mean a longer-than-average expected lifespan. Although the TEMPUR-Cloud is medium (5), a platform bed can make the mattress feel firmer and more supportive.
How Does It Feel?
Two layers of TEMPUR memory foam make up the comfort system. This proprietary material found in all Tempur-Pedic mattresses has a dense composition, so it doesn’t develop impressions or indentations as quickly as the foams found in many competing mattresses. You’ll feel deep contouring and cushioning as your body settles into the surface, but a base layer of high-density polyfoam stabilizes the mattress fairly well and excessive sinkage shouldn’t be an issue for side and back sleepers who weigh 230 pounds or less.
Why We Like It
Durability sets the TEMPUR-Cloud apart from other memory foam models — this mattress should perform for at least seven to eight years before a replacement is needed, resulting in a longer-than-average lifespan. Our tests also show the mattress excels at pressure relief. Most side and back sleepers enjoyed the close cradling of the TEMPUR foam, and our body-mapping technology confirmed little to no pressure buildup.
Motion isolation is another major strength. All three foam layers absorb movement and reduce motion transfer, so you shouldn’t experience sleep disruptions when your partner moves in bed and vice versa. You may notice some heat retention — a common shortcoming for high-density memory foam — and initial off-gassing odor can be somewhat strong.
The TEMPUR-Cloud’s sticker price is on the expensive side for a mattress in a box, but Tempur-Pedic offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Your sleep trial runs for 90 nights. If you decide to keep the mattress after that point, it’s covered under a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Value
Silk & Snow Mattress
Sleep Doctor
4.8
Details
Trial Length 100 nights (30-night requirement)
Warranty 15 Year, Limited
Trial Length / Warranty
100 nights (30-night requirement) / 15 Year, Limited
Type Foam
Firmness Medium (5)
Price $600 – $900
Sleep Doctor’s Take
The medium (5) feel of the Silk & Snow Mattress makes it perfectly suited to sleepers who need deep contouring and a plush feel. The mattress carries a very reasonable price-point compared to other foam beds we’ve tested.
Highlights
- Antimicrobial textile engineered to fight bacterial growth
- Washable cover zips off for easy cleaning
- Open-cell, gel-infused memory foam designed to cool and conform
Drawbacks
- Stomach sleepers over 130 pounds may need a firmer bed
- Sleepers who easily overheat may find the bed too warm
The Silk & Snow Mattress provides a high-end feel at a reasonable price-point. This gently conforming all-foam model has a medium (5) feel, offering mid-level support suitable for a range of sleepers.
Made with ease of cleaning in mind, the silver-infused cover is engineered to prevent bacterial growth. This polyester-spandex blend cover also has a 360-degree zipper for quick removal, and it’s washable for easy cleaning.
The comfort layer consists of 2 inches of open-cell gel memory foam designed to dissipate heat. Our testers noticed little heat buildup on the surface, helping them stay cool and comfortable. Another 2 inches of transitional polyfoam adds responsiveness and cuts down on motion transfer. The mattress’ support core uses 6 inches of polyfoam for added stability and durability.
Our team members under 130 pounds gave the mattress excellent ratings across sleep positions. Side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds also rated the mattress highly, citing its above-average pressure relief. However, our testers over 230 pounds didn’t get the pushback they needed for maximum comfort.
Since our testers sunk in along the edge, the Silk & Snow may not be the best option for those seeking edge support to counteract the lower profile of their platform bed. That said, sleepers who prioritize motion isolation and whisper-quiet movement may appreciate the mattress’ solid performance in these categories.
Silk & Snow offers a 100-night sleep trial and a 15-year limited warranty. Mattresses ship free to the contiguous United States.
The Silk & Snow Mattress balances quality and affordability. Despite its low price-point, this model provides the pressure-relieving hug of memory foam without much heat retention.
Most Comfortable
WinkBeds GravityLux
Sleep Doctor
4.6
Details
Trial Length 120 nights (30 night requirement)
Warranty Lifetime, Limited
Trial Length / Warranty
120 nights (30 night requirement) / Lifetime, Limited
Type Foam
Firmness Medium Soft (4), Medium (5), Firm (7)
Price $1,199 – $1,999
Sleep Doctor’s Take
With three firmness options to choose from, nearly everyone on our test team found the WinkBeds GravityLux a comfortable fit. The all-foam design offers deep cradling and keeps motion transfer to a minimum.
Highlights
- Patented AirCell memory foam designed for conforming, breathability, and motion isolation
- Three firmness options to suit different needs and preferences
- Zoned transition layer for lumbar support
Ideal For
- Foam layers may feel too warm for hot sleepers
- Stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may need stronger support
The WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress comes in three firmness levels. With multiple foam layers that combine contouring and support, nearly any sleeper can find a GravityLux Mattress that’s comfortable for their body type and preferred position.
The cover consists of moisture-wicking Tencel fabric quilted with gel-infused polyfoam engineered to dissipate heat. A main comfort layer of AirCell memory foam contains air capsules designed to absorb motion while letting air circulate. In our tests, few vibrations traveled across the surface and very little heat built up. This responsive memory foam also contours to the body to relieve pressure and support the spine, but it regains its shape quickly to enable easy position changes.
Targeted support and contouring extend to a transitional layer of zoned polyfoam that provides more pushback where the body is heaviest. A core of high-density polyfoam stabilizes the mattress and increases its durability.
During our testing, the GravityLux medium soft (4) mattress garnered excellent reviews from side sleepers under 130 pounds. Stomach and back sleepers of a similar weight favored the medium (5) model. Side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds also enjoyed the medium feel. The firm (7) version was most popular with our testers over 230 pounds as well as back sleepers and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.
The performance also varies depending on the firmness. The medium soft and medium mattresses performed better in our motion isolation and pressure relief evaluations, while the firm earned higher marks in our edge support, temperature neutrality, and ease of movement tests.
A 120-night sleep trial lets shoppers try the mattress at home. WinkBeds offers free shipping to the contiguous United States and a limited lifetime warranty.
With three distinct firmness levels, the GravityLux can accommodate sleepers of all body types and position preferences. Its balance between responsiveness and contouring also makes it well suited to sleepers who prioritize both pressure relief and ease of movement.
Best Luxury
Avocado Luxury Organic Mattress
Sleep Doctor
4.7
Details
Trial Length 365 nights (30-night break-in period)
Warranty 25 Year, Limited
Trial Length / Warranty
365 nights (30-night break-in period) / 25 Year, Limited
Type Hybrid
Firmness Medium Firm (6)
Price $3,099 – $6,198
Sleep Doctor’s Take
The Luxury Organic Mattress is one of Avocado’s most extravagant offerings, and that’s really saying something given the brand’s reputation for high-end sleep products. A sophisticated comfort system with 12 individual layers provides next-level cushioning, but the underlying latex and coil layers provide enough support to prevent uncomfortable sinkage.
Highlights
- Thick comfort system cradles the body without retaining too much heat
- Latex and coil layers push back against your weight to keep your body on an even plane
- GOLS and GOTS certifications ensure sustainably sourced materials
Drawbacks
- Sticker price is too expensive for shoppers with tight budgets
- Limited motion isolation for co-sleepers
If you’re shopping with a flexible budget, the Avocado Luxury Organic Mattress is impeccably crafted and highly suited for use with an adjustable bed. Deep comfort layers and a robust coil-on-coil support system make this latex hybrid model stand out from the competition, and a slew of organic certifications should appeal to eco-conscious individuals.
How Does It Feel?
Layers of cotton, wool, canvas, and silk-blend fiber batting create a plush, breathable sleep surface that adapts to your body without sinking too much. These materials are also highly breathable and resistant to heat buildup, so the mattress should sleep fairly cool. A latex comfort layer gives the mattress a mellow bounce when you get into bed. Transitional microcoils and a second latex layer add to the responsiveness, so you should be able to move across the surface without feeling stuck. Zoned coils with perimeter reinforcement make the mattress feel quite stable and help keep your body on an even plane.
Why We Like It
During our hands-on tests, the Luxury Organic Mattress earned high praise from our side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds, and our back and stomach sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. The balanced medium firm (6) feel should appeal to anyone seeking a mattress that gently contours and provides decent overall support. While the various comfort layers soften the surface, this mattress reinforces weight quite well and shouldn’t sink excessively.
Latex is naturally springy, so you should expect some motion transfer. This may be problematic for anyone who shares their sleep surface with a restless partner. On the other hand, steady airflow throughout the interior and a breathable organic cotton cover help the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year.
The Luxury Organic Mattress’ steep sticker price reflects its luxurious construction, but Avocado ships free of charge to shoppers in the contiguous U.S. Your order also includes a sleep trial that runs for an entire year, giving you ample time to test the mattress and decide whether it meets your needs. Those who keep the mattress also receive a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best for Side Sleepers
Puffy Lux Hybrid
Sleep Doctor
4.6
Details
Trial Length 101 nights (14-night break-in period)
Warranty Lifetime, Limited
Trial Length / Warranty
101 nights (14-night break-in period) / Lifetime, Limited
Type Hybrid
Firmness Medium (5)
Price $899 – $2,098
Sleep Doctor’s Take
The Puffy Lux Hybrid delivers a closer contour and more pressure relief than the average coil mattress, and this is thanks in large part to the three foam layers in its comfort system. Side sleepers, people with chronic pain, and couples can all benefit from this plush design.
Highlights
- Thick foam layers cushion and adapt to your body’s unique curves
- Above-average motion isolation and pressure relief for a hybrid
- Cover is stain-resistant and fully machine-washable
Drawbacks
- Too soft for many back and stomach sleepers
- Foam layers emit strong off-gassing odor up to 48 hours after the mattress is unboxed
We always recommend choosing a mattress based on your primary sleep position. For side sleepers, an adaptive mattress like the Puffy Lux Hybrid can alleviate the aches and pains that tend to build up in the shoulder and hips. This mattress is constructed with thick foam layers to cushion your sore spots while you sleep, and a sturdy coil system to prevent excessive sinkage.
How Does It Feel?
The Lux Hybrid is rated as medium (5), making it softer and more adaptive than most hybrid models our team has tested. Three foam layers form a gentle cradle around your body. This can be particularly beneficial for side sleepers, as this position often places undue pressure on the shoulders and hips. Pocketed coils and high-density base foam make up the support core, but these elements don’t take away from the Lux Hybrid’s exceptionally soft feel.
Why We Like It
The mattress earned favorable ratings from our side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds, and our back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. Deep cushioning and cradling are defining characteristics of the Lux Hybrid, and set the mattress apart from other coil mattresses made today. That said, heavier individuals and those who dislike being “hugged” by their sleep surface should consider a firmer, more supportive mattress.
Our tests also indicate the Lux Hybrid isolates motion well and alleviates pressure along the spine. Another feature we appreciated is the cover, which resists stains and can be machine-washed whenever a cleaning is needed. Comparatively, most mattresses come with non-removable covers that can only be spot cleaned.
Puffy offers free ground shipping to shoppers in all 50 states. Each order includes a sleep trial spanning 101 nights in length. You may return the Lux Hybrid at no extra cost during this time frame. Should you decide to keep the mattress, it’s further backed by a lifetime warranty covering structural defects as long as you retain original ownership.
Why You Should Trust Us
Most modern mattresses are compatible with platform beds, so there’s no shortage of options. However, that can make deciding even more difficult. That’s why our team personally researches and tests hundreds of models to help narrow it down. Our experts have years of experience in the sleep products industry. We also work with testers who have different body types and position preferences for a broader look at how the same model performs for different people.
The result is straightforward and dependable recommendations you can use to make the best choice for your sleep needs.
More Mattress Options for Specific Needs
What Is a Platform Bed?
Platform beds have either a solid or slatted base that creates a strong, even surface for your mattress. Since the mattress rests directly on the frame, platform beds do not need a box spring and generally have a lower profile. Because of their unique design, they also tend to sleep cooler and have more underbed storage options.
What Are the Benefits to Using a Platform Bed?
Platform beds do not require a box spring, which can simplify your sleep setup and save you money. Beyond that, the design can add to your room’s aesthetic, provide storage options, and keep the sleep surface cooler.
Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
Compact and Lower Profile | The absence of a box spring means platform beds often put the mattress at a lower profile. This can be an aesthetic choice, and it may be helpful if you have young children or pets who struggle to climb onto a higher surface. Many platform beds can also be broken down with the slats rolled up for easy moving or compact storage. |
Storage Options | Since platform beds don’t require a box spring, they often use the extra space for storage. Many include built-in drawers or roll-out accessories. The simple addition of low-profile storage bins can also make the most of the below-bed space. |
Sleeping Cooler | Since the mattress rests directly on the platform bed’s slats, air can circulate underneath it. This increased airflow means heat can dissipate, allowing platform beds to sleep cooler. |
Do You Need a Box Spring With a Platform Bed?
Platform beds negate the need for a box spring by providing a firm, even surface for your mattress. A solid or slatted platform bed foundation works similarly to a box spring, preventing loss of support.
What You Should Look for When Buying a Mattress for a Platform Bed
Using a platform bed offers shoppers a lot of leeway when making their mattress decision. However, depending on your needs, certain mattresses may work better for you than others. We’ll explain some of the more common considerations.
Mattress Thickness
Many platform beds have a low profile, but the mattress thickness ultimately affects the overall height of the sleep surface. For sleepers who struggle to get into or out of a low bed, we recommend a thicker mattress.
Edge Support
A sturdy perimeter can act as a push-off and landing point to simplify getting into and out of a low platform bed. Many hybrid models and a few foam mattresses have reinforced edges for added support.
Pressure Relief
The flat surface created by platform beds helps prevent sagging. This means they are particularly well suited to the pressure-relieving properties of memory foam mattresses, strengthening their pushback while limiting excess sinkage.
Firmness and Feel
Platform beds create a solid foundation for mattresses. This can add to the mattress’ support and make it feel a bit firmer than it would on a box spring.
The Best Types of Mattresses for Platform Beds
Platform beds can accommodate most mattress types, but each has distinct advantages that appeal to some sleepers. We’ve included an overview of the types of mattresses commonly used on platform beds and which sleepers are most likely to benefit from each one.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses combine a comfort system of foam or latex with a coil support core. These models typically balance gentle cradling and responsive support.
We recommend hybrid mattresses for platform beds because they’re often easier to get into and out of. They’re frequently thicker and have sturdier perimeters, which may be especially useful for sleepers with a low-profile platform bed.
Foam Mattresses
Foam mattresses are made from polyurethane foam, also called polyfoam. Polyfoam was developed for its cushioning capabilities. Many models also incorporate memory foam, which is a type of polyfoam with added chemicals that make it denser and closer conforming. Typically, foam mattresses incorporate layers of memory foam or lower-density polyfoam over a support core of high-density polyfoam.
Contouring is a signature of foam mattresses, making them a good fit for side sleepers who benefit from extra pressure relief. Platform beds give foam models an even surface to rest on, helping prevent sinkage and increase stability.
Latex Mattresses
Most latex models contain natural latex, which comes from the sap of rubber trees. The resulting material is bouncy and responsive with less hug than foam. Latex mattresses are a good fit for sleepers who want pressure point relief without restricted movement. We also recommend them for back and stomach sleepers who need more support to maintain good posture.
Using a latex mattress on a platform bed emphasizes its springiness and support by giving the sleep surface a sturdy foundation. Latex models are also frequently relatively heavy, so they benefit from a platform bed’s more stable base.
Innerspring Mattresses
Traditional innerspring mattresses feature a system of interconnected coils under an upholstered comfort layer. Higher-end models may have individually pocketed coils for greater responsiveness and motion isolation. Since traditional innerspring models have less cushioning than hybrids, we usually don’t recommend them for side sleepers or anyone with sharp pressure points. That said, some manufacturers use the terms “innerspring” and “hybrid” interchangeably.
While innerspring mattresses can be used on a platform bed, they usually work best paired with a box spring that helps absorb shock and accentuate the bounce of the coils.
About The Author
Staff Writer, Product Testing Team
Garen is a health and lifestyle content creator. She realized the importance of sleep when her children made getting a good night’s rest more challenging. Garen is always learning something new about the wide world of sleep and sleep products. Married with two girls, ages 7 and 11, she is a book nerd and a lover of pop music, travel, and the Pacific Northwest.
- Position: Side sleeper
- Temperature: Neutral Sleeper
- Chronotype: Wolf
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