10 Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers 2022

Some may argue that stomach sleeping is the most comfortable way to sleep, but experts say that it isn't necessarily the healthiest sleep position.

"This position puts the most pressure on your spine's muscles and joints because it flattens the natural curve of your spine," says Raymond J. Hah, MD, a spine surgeon at Keck Medicine of USC, in a recent post on the university's blog. "Sleeping on your stomach also forces you to turn your neck, which can cause neck and upper back pain."

But there is good news for those who rest face down: The best mattress for stomach sleepers will support your spine in a healthy posture and relieve stress from pressure points to keep you pain-free. Stomach sleepers should look for a supportive mattress that provides enough pushback to keep the spine from sinking too far into the mattress and getting pulled out of its natural alignment. Also, choosing a bed with a plush surface—such as a padded extra layer or contouring pillow top—can provide pressure relief to the chest and shoulders, and in turn, prevent neck discomfort.

But it can be tricky to know how to choose between different mattress types and which are right for you. That's why we've rounded up the best mattresses for stomach sleepers based on feedback from Mattress Advisor's review team. They've conducted more than 1,200 hours of in-house lab testing to evaluate over 150 mattresses on criteria that benefit stomach sleepers. Based on their findings, we outlined 10 top-reviewed mattresses for stomach sleepers that'll make a huge difference in the quality of your shut-eye. Happy snoozing!

The best mattresses for stomach sleepers:

Best Overall Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Saatva Classic
Best Mattress for Back Pain: Helix Midnight
Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers: The WinkBed
Best Luxury Innerspring Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: DreamCloud
Best Value Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Nectar
Best Cooling Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: GhostBed Classic
Best Extra-Firm Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Brooklyn Bedding Plank
Most Responsive Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Puffy
Best Organic Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Birch by Helix
Best Memory Foam Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Casper

The best mattresses for stomach sleepers

01 of 10

Best Overall Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Saatva Classic

BUY IT, $887 FOR A QUEEN (WAS $1,695)

Mattress Type: Hybrid (coils and foam)
Mattress Advisor Score: 9.3/10
Firmness: Plush-soft (3/10), luxury-firm (6/10), and firm (8/10)
Trial Period for Returns: 180 nights
Warranty: 15 years

Who it's best for: The Saatva Classic's construction—innerspring coils and foam comfort layers—make the hybrid a match for side, back, and stomach sleepers. Testers said stomach sleepers with back pain get the additional lumbar support they need, rating the Saatva's spinal alignment 10 out of 10. Hot sleepers also thrive atop the breathability of the Saatva's innerspring base, which helped the mattress earn a 9 out of 10 for cooling.

How it feels: Stomach sleepers should feel like they're lying in luxury on the Saatva Classic, Mattress Advisor testers said. The luxury-firm level kept stomach sleepers' spines in alignment while also offering plush comfort, according to testers.

Pros: The Saatva Classic accommodates any sleeping position, so partners who aren't both stomach sleepers will be covered. The Saatva's dual coil system also gives the mattress some of the most exceptional structural integrity on the market. With the inclusion of complimentary white glove delivery, you won't have to worry about setting up your heavy but durable Saatva.

Cons: Shoppers on a tight budget may be wise to avoid the Saatva, which is a luxury mattress with a luxury price tag. If you prefer feeling slightly more enveloped in your mattress, rather than atop it, an all-foam mattress may be a preferable alternative.

What it's made of: The Saatva Classic has a five-layer construction. The bed starts with a 3-inch comfort layer and a Euro pillow top, which is seamlessly sewn into the mattress. A second coil layer of individually wrapped springs (884 in a queen) lies beneath it, followed by a base layer of steel coils. For added edge support, the coils are flanked by a high-density foam barrier.

The Saatva Classic is the brand's best-selling mattress, and for good reason, according to testers from Mattress Advisor. In the sleep lab, the bed earned a perfect score in spinal alignment (the highest score on this list!), thanks to its plush pillow top and dual-coil innerspring system. Since it's available in three firmness levels, the Saatva Classic can work for a variety of sleepers, though the firm option may be best for the stomach sleeping position.

From the sleep lab: "I don't think I've ever tested a mattress that has both perfect edge support and perfect spine alignment. We gave the Saatva Classic a 10 out of 10 in both categories. The mattress didn't budge when I sat on the edge, unlike some beds that will sink to the bed frame."

02 of 10

Best Mattress for Back Pain: Helix Midnight

BUY IT, $999 FOR A QUEEN (WAS $1,099)

Mattress Type: Hybrid (coils and foam)
Mattress Advisor Score: 8.9/10
Firmness: Medium (5.5/10)
Trial Period for Returns: 100 nights
Warranty: 10 years

Who it's best for: As a supportive hybrid mattress, the Helix Midnight suits back and stomach sleepers, especially those with back pain. The coil base and cooling gel memory foam promote airflow, which is great for hot sleepers, testers said.

How it feels: Testers said they slightly sunk into the comfort layer on top, and their backs felt propped up by the support of the coil base beneath.

Pros: Like other hybrid mattresses of its caliber, the Helix Midnight provides a well-rounded, luxurious night's rest for stomach sleepers who crave comfort and support. Mattress Advisor testers were also impressed with the Midnight's cooling properties.

Cons: For sleepers who prefer an all-foam mattress, the addition of an innerspring layer may provide an undesirably bouncy, give-and-take feeling.

What it's made of: The Helix Midnight starts with two layers of foam: a 1-inch polyfoam transition layer and 2 inches of gel memory foam. Steel pocketed coils (789 in a queen) make up the core of the five-layer Helix Midnight and are grounded by 1 inch of dense polyfoam. A protective polyester mattress cover is also included.

The Helix Midnight's combination of coils and foam provides the best of both worlds for stomach sleepers, Mattress Advisor testers said. You get the targeted lumbar support of typical innerspring beds with the superior pressure relief of foam. And since the Midnight earned a perfect score (10/10) in Mattress Advisor's edge support test, it's also a top choice for stomach sleepers who like to lie along the mattress's perimeter. But while the Helix Midnight is a good value for a hybrid mattress, it's still pricier than some all-foam beds.

From the sleep lab: "We like the support of the Midnight for back and stomach sleepers. The hips sank in just the right amount, which also kept the mattress from feeling stuffy."

03 of 10

Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers: The WinkBed

BUY IT, $1,499 FOR A QUEEN (WAS $1,799)

Mattress Type: Hybrid (coils and foam)
Mattress Advisor Score: 8.6/10
Firmness: Soft (4.5/10), luxury-firm (6.5/10), firm (7.5/10), and plus (8/10)
Trial Period for Returns: 120 nights
Warranty: Lifetime

Who it's best for: Mattress Advisor recommends The WinkBed for sleepers who lie on their stomach or for combination sleepers who switch positions often. Hot sleepers and those with back pain can also get relief with The WinkBed's breathable and supportive hybrid foam-coil build.

How it feels: The WinkBed's best-selling luxury-firm model strikes a medium-firm balance that suits a broad range of sleepers, testers said. Stomach sleepers should get the firm support they need from the coil layer, supporting their hips and preventing them from dipping too deeply into the mattress, which can force the spine out of alignment.

Pros: The WinkBed has excellent durability because of its hybrid build, so you'll likely never need to take advantage of the generous lifetime warranty. However if you want to return The WinkBed after the 120-day sleep trial window, you can take 50 percent off another model with WinkBeds' "any reason" lifetime replacement.

Cons: Motion isolation is not a strong suit of The WinkBed, so couples who sleep lightly may want to look elsewhere. Side sleepers may also crave more pressure relief and want to seek out an all-foam alternative.

What it's made of: The WinkBed's core support comes from individually wrapped springs (1,074 in a queen) made from high-grade recycled steel. The coils vary in thickness, or "gauge," with higher gauges offering more support. Atop the coils, a gel memory foam layer contours and cools. The WinkBed's final comfort layer, a quilted pillow top, adds even more pressure relief. The bed also sports a protective cover made from Tencel, a eucalyptus-derived fiber.

The WinkBed's five-zoned support system promotes even weight distribution, which is excellent for stomach sleepers. Whether you're a tried-and-true stomach sleeper or switch between your tummy and your side, the bed's responsiveness (which mattress testers gave a 9 out of 10) lends itself to changes in position. Premium materials make The WinkBed pricier than the other hybrid mattresses on this list, so keep that in mind if you're on a tight budget.

From the sleep lab: "The WinkBed has some of the best stability and support of the mattresses we've tested, so I'm not surprised it's a bit pricier. You get what you pay for, though, and it offers a luxe-feeling sleep experience."

04 of 10

Best Luxury Innerspring Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: DreamCloud

BUY IT, $999 FOR A QUEEN (WAS $1,598)

Mattress Type: Hybrid (coils and foam)
Mattress Advisor Score: 9.1/10
Firmness: Medium-firm (6.5/10)
Trial Period for Returns: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime

Who it's best for: Back and stomach sleepers get the support they need on the DreamCloud, testers said. Hot sleepers also get the cool night of rest they crave, thanks to the breathable coil layer.

How it feels: The DreamCloud has a slightly firmer-than-average feel, despite its plush top layer. Testers gave the bed a 9 out 10 in the spinal alignment category. They felt well-supported by the DreamCloud's coil base.

Pros: While it's more affordable than the DreamCloud Premier, the DreamCloud still has luxury touches, including its plush, soft comfort layers and an individually wrapped coil base of support.

Cons: The DreamCloud hybrid mattress might be too firm for side sleepers, and memory foam lovers may find the DreamCloud's springy responsiveness jarring.

What it's made of: The DreamCloud begins with a quilted cover of foam and cashmere, followed by gel memory foam. Next, a foam transition layer ensures you don't sink too far into the bed. Finally, a base of pocketed coils resting on a thin layer of foam ground the DreamCloud.

Many people prefer the traditional feel of an innerspring bed, but coils alone don't typically provide adequate pressure relief. That's where the DreamCloud hybrid mattress comes into play. The pocketed micro-coil compression layer offers springy support and responsiveness, while the foam layers and a luxurious cashmere pillow top cradle your curves to keep you comfortable throughout the night. Stomach sleepers will feel secure on every inch of the DreamCloud, too, testers said, thanks to superior edge support (9.75/10)

From the sleep lab: "The DreamCloud is a rare exception to my usual die-hard, all-foam mattress leanings. Its top was just so cozy that I didn't want to get back up."

05 of 10

Best Value Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Nectar

BUY IT, $899 FOR A QUEEN (WAS $1,298)

Mattress Type: Memory foam
Mattress Advisor Score: 8.7/10
Firmness: Medium-firm (6/10)
Trial Period for Returns: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime

Who it's best for: A classic memory foam mattress, the Nectar is great for those who like the squishy, cradling feel of memory foam, testers said. The Nectar is especially great for side, back, and stomach sleepers on a budget, as well as couples on a budget.

How it feels: The Nectar's top layer contours to the body, but there's plenty of support in the base layer, testers said. Testers also noted the Nectar can feel a tad warm if you're a hot sleeper by nature.

Pros: Memory foam lovers will feel right at home with the way the Nectar hugs every curve. The mattress also excels at motion isolation (rated 8.5 out of 10 by testers), an important category for couples sharing a bed. Mattresses with low motion transfer allow couples to sleep peacefully without disturbing one another when one makes a midnight snack run.

Cons: Although mattress testers said that the Nectar's spinal alignment score (7.5/10) isn't a deal-breaker, stomach sleepers with back problems may want to seek a mattress that performs better in that category.

What it's made of: The Nectar is an all-foam mattress with three distinct layers—a 7-inch base foam, a 2-inch responsive foam layer, and a 3-inch gel memory foam top layer. Nectar also features a soft, quilted cover made from a polyblend.

If you're looking for a bargain, the Nectar mattress is a premium memory foam bed at a budget price (it's typically on sale for under $1,000). The mattress has superior pressure relief (8.5/10) to keep stress off your upper torso and shoulders while lying face down (although some sleepers may find it a tad too soft for stomach sleeping). The Nectar also includes excellent edge support—stability around the sides of the mattress—which testers rated a 9 out of 10. While most mattress companies give you 100 nights to try out a bed, Nectar's year-long sleep trial and lifetime warranty make this deal even sweeter.

From the sleep lab: "The Nectar has a good mix of cradling and pushback, although it generally leans more toward a slow-moving memory foam feel. It's a good no-nonsense match for memory foam lovers."

06 of 10

Best Cooling Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: GhostBed Classic

BUY IT, $977 FOR A QUEEN (WAS $1,395)

Mattress Type: Synthetic latex
Mattress Advisor Score: 8.6/10
Firmness: Medium-firm (6.5/10)
Trial Period for Returns: 101 nights
Warranty: 20 years

Who it's best for: Back, stomach, and combination sleepers do well on the GhostBed Classic's medium-firm, bouncy latex, testers said.

How it feels: The GhostBed has the contouring feel of memory foam and the bounce and breathability of latex. Testers said the combination of materials feels both cradling and cooling.

Pros: Responsiveness and cooling are usually trade-offs with memory foam mattresses, but the GhostBed achieves both with its unique latex build.

Cons: While side sleepers typically get the pressure relief they need on an all-foam bed, they may find it lacking on the GhostBed due to its synthetic latex construction.

What it's made of: A 7.5-inch base of high-density foam grounds the GhostBed. Next are 2 inches of gel memory foam, and the GhostBed, in part, can attribute its coolness to the proprietary foam's makeup. An aerated latex layer (1.5 inches) follows, and the final layer between the sleeper and the mattress is a viscose and polyester cover.

Because stomach sleepers rest face down, they often report sleeping hot. When your torso is pressed into the mattress—and your face is pressed into a pillow or the bed—it doesn't leave much room for adequate airflow. But the GhostBed Classic's cooling gel memory foam and aerated latex, which is punctured with dozens of small holes, both work overtime to keep you cool. Mattress Advisor gave the bed an 8.5 out of 10 in the cooling category for its ability to keep most testers sweat-free. However, light sleepers who share their mattress with a partner might find that the GhostBed is lacking in the motion isolation department.

From the sleep lab: "The GhostBed uses synthetic latex, so it's not as cost-prohibitive as mattresses with natural latex. And since we've found latex to be more supportive than other foams, we love a latex build for stomach sleepers."

07 of 10

Best Extra-Firm Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Brooklyn Bedding Plank

BUY IT, $1,274 FOR A QUEEN

Mattress Type: Memory foam
Mattress Advisor Score: 9.1/10
Firmness: Firm (7/10) and ultra-firm (9/10)
Trial Period for Returns: 120 nights
Warranty: 10 years

Who it's best for: With the flippable Brooklyn Bedding Plank, back and stomach sleepers get the support they need for solid spinal alignment, mattress testers said. The extra-firm side works best for stomach sleepers, keeping their hips fully elevated and aligned with their spine.

How it feels: The Plank is one of the firmest beds on the market, so you will definitely feel as if you're sleeping on top of the mattress. Still, this is a foam mattress, so its overall feel is that of firm foam with some bounce.

Pros: The Plank's flippability gives indecisive sleepers the ability to opt for either an ultra-firm surface or a side with a tad more cushioning. Firm mattress lovers who sleep hot also have the option to add a cooling panel to the Plank.

Cons: Side sleepers who prefer a softer mattress may be uncomfortable on the Plank.

What it's made of: Flipped to the extra-firm side, the Plank starts with a .75-inch quilted comfort layer. On the less-firm side, the Plank has two layers, a denser 1.5-inch quilted comfort layer and a responsive latex-like foam. A 7-inch base foam at the Plank's core provides durability and support. If you elect to add the Plank's optional cooling panel, the material will be affixed to both sides of the mattress.

If you prefer a firmer mattress that offers proper support without skimping on pressure relief, the Brooklyn Bedding Plank is a great option to consider. Even if you choose the firmer side, it still gently cradles joints to relieve pressure and adapts to your movements (testers gave it an 8.75 out of 10 for responsiveness). Because memory foam tends to trap in heat, those who sleep hot may want to spend an additional $250 for the Plank's optional cooling panel, which is made with a phase-change material that feels cool to the touch.

From the sleep lab: "The Plank is surprisingly cozy for being so firm. You don't feel like you're lying on an uncomfortably hard surface. As a firm mattress lover myself, I found the soft side firm enough, but having an ultra-firm side is a nice touch for hardcore firm mattress lovers."

08 of 10

Most Responsive Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Puffy

BUY IT, $949 FOR A QUEEN (WAS $1,699)

Mattress Type: Memory foam
Mattress Advisor Score: 9/10
Firmness: Firm (7/10)
Trial Period for Returns: 101 nights
Warranty: Lifetime

Who it's best for: Stomach sleepers get the firm support they need when lying prone on the Puffy, testers said. Its cradling memory foam layers can also accommodate side sleepers.

How it feels: The Puffy is on the firmer, more responsive side for an all-foam bed, but plenty of soft foam layers offer pressure relief. While the Puffy has less of a "hugging" feel than most memory foam mattresses, it won't have the lifted-up feeling that a coil base provides.

Pros: Couples can enjoy undisturbed sleep due to the Puffy's excellent lack of motion transfer. The Puffy's price point (often less than $1,000 with sales offered by the brand) also makes the mattress worth closer scrutiny from shoppers on a budget.

Cons: Mattress Advisor testers said some customers reported sagging over time. Any significant sinkage (more than 1.5 inches) is covered by the Puffy's lifetime warranty. However, you may want to avoid the issue altogether by opting for a mattress made with denser foams, like the Casper.

What it's made of: The Puffy's cover is made from stain-resistant material. Beneath it lie two comfort-adding foam layers, including 2 inches of memory foam and 2 inches of gel-infused foam. A thick, 6-inch support foam layer secures the base, complete with a cover to grip the foundation for added stability.

A responsive bed like the Puffy, with its ability to quickly adapt to changes in position, can help stomach sleepers move around more easily. The Puffy also earned high marks in spine alignment and edge support (8.75 out of 10 for both), so you'll feel secure whether you're resting in the middle of the mattress or near the edge. Plus, the bed comes with a lifetime warranty.

From the sleep lab: "You definitely get that plush foam feel, and even with my smaller size, I felt nice pressure relief on my shoulders and hips with the Puffy."

09 of 10

Best Organic Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Birch by Helix

BUY IT, $1,699 FOR A QUEEN

Mattress Type: Hybrid (coils and latex)
Mattress Advisor Score: 8.7/10
Firmness: Medium (5/10)
Trial Period for Returns: 100 nights
Warranty: 25 years

Who it's best for: Shoppers who want to support companies with sustainable, eco-friendly manufacturing practices should consider the Birch. Mattress Advisor testers also recommend the Birch for back and stomach sleepers who experience back pain.

How it feels: You can melt into the Birch but still feel the bounce of the latex, which has a slightly different feel than the more squishy feel of memory foam. The Birch's coil base also gives you a firm feeling of support.

Pros: Latex is a durable material that won't sag as fast as memory foam. The durability of latex, combined with the resilience of pocketed coils, helps ensure a mattress will last for the long haul. Durability isn't at the cost of comfort, though: Mattress testers loved the bounce and comfort of the Birch's top layer.

Cons: Budget shoppers, beware. Natural latex is a premium material that comes at a steeper cost.

What it's made of: The 11-inch-thick Birch starts with an organic cotton cover, with a wool layer beneath it. The main foam comfort layer, made of Talalay latex, follows. Those comfort layers sit atop the Birch's base of individually wrapped coils.

If you're a stomach sleeper who's eco-conscious, the Birch by Helix is the mattress for you. Carefully crafted by hand in the U.S., the Birch does not contain harsh chemicals or polyurethane-based foams, and it's both Greenguard Gold and GOTS Certified. As for performance, the bed scored an 8.5 out of 10 in the spine alignment category, which is key for stomach sleepers, who need to keep their hips properly elevated during the night. Plus, this hybrid mattress—which combines latex and innerspring coils—is responsive and bouncy to keep sleepers from feeling stuck in one position.

From the sleep lab: "The latex has a tautness that makes moving around easy for combination sleepers, so if you flip from your stomach to your side or back at night, you're covered. The Birch mattress is also well-priced, considering the materials."

10 of 10

Best Memory Foam Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Casper Original

BUY IT, $895 FOR A QUEEN (WAS $1,295)

Mattress Type: Memory foam
Mattress Advisor Score: 9.1/10
Firmness: Medium-firm (6/10)
Trial Period for Returns: 100 nights
Warranty: 10 years

Who it's best for: Testers from Mattress Advisor said the Casper is a versatile mattress that accommodates all sleeping positions—stomach, back, side, and combination. The solid edge support and lack of motion transfer also make the Casper great for couples who want to rest undisturbed.

How it feels: The Casper has exceptional bounce for a memory foam mattress, so you can easily switch positions, according to testers. While it may be too soft for some, stomach sleepers get nice support under the hips with the zoned support layer, which is firmer in the middle.

Pros: The Casper uses excellent materials that include dense, durable foams that lend a balanced feel. The zoned support also helped the Casper earn a near-perfect spinal alignment score (9.5/10) from testers.

Cons: Hot sleepers may prefer a more cooling, breathable hybrid mattress over the Casper.

What it's made of: The Casper is 11 inches tall and starts with a soft, knit cover. The next layer is a ventilated, responsive polyfoam. Beneath that, a zoned memory foam support layer is firmer in the middle and softer at the head and foot of the bed. A polyfoam layer forms the bed's base.

Some memory foam mattresses have a reputation for being overly plush—so much so that you start to feel a little suffocated. The Casper Original mattress, however, offers the cushioning and pressure relief that memory foam provides while still being firm enough to distribute your body weight evenly across the surface. The Casper earned a perfect score in the Mattress Advisor responsiveness test, meaning it adapts well to movement. The mattress's foam also creates support, and that extends to the perimeter (testers gave the bed a 9.5 out of 10 for spinal alignment and edge support).

From the sleep lab: "The Casper gives one of the most balanced feels we've seen in an all-foam mattress... not too soft [yet] not too firm."

Why you should trust us

Each mattress on this list was put to the test (literally) in Mattress Advisor's lab, which is located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Bedding experts spent over 1,200 hours evaluating and comparing mattresses using a 14-point testing methodology to locate the best mattresses for stomach sleepers available online.

While some of the factors tested are tied directly to performance, like responsiveness, edge support, and pressure relief, others are based around brand operations, such as customer service, shipping policies, and trial period. The Mattress Advisor team combines this proprietary methodology with in-depth interviews and customer experience to arrive at a weighted score out of 10.

How stomach sleeping affects your rest

While many find the stomach sleeping position the most comfortable, it also comes with a number of potential issues. First, when you're resting face down, your head is turned to one side for an extended period of time, which can cause neck pain.

Sleeping on your stomach also forces you to extend your neck backward, putting your spine in an awkward, less-than-ideal position. Due to this, many stomach sleepers complain about lower back pain because their spine twists out of alignment.

If possible, try training yourself to sleep on your side or back—the two positions that have been proven to support healthier spinal alignment and less back pain. But if you must rest on your stomach, follow the tips outlined below to make sure you're resting on a supportive mattress that helps maintain spine alignment by keeping your hips raised and your torso supported.

Benefits of stomach sleeping

Snore less: Rachel Salas, MD, an associate professor of neurology at Johns Hopkins Medicine, said that stomach sleeping can help keep the airways open, which alleviates snoring and mild sleep apnea.
Indigestion: While sleeping on your left side is the most expert-recommended way to aid digestion and prevent acid reflux, the next best choice is stomach sleeping. When paired with a pillow to elevate the upper body, stomach sleeping can be particularly effective in aiding digestion.
In a similar vein, those who suffer persistent heartburn, or GERD, can benefit from stomach sleeping with an elevated back. That's because the digestive system will be subjected to more gravity, helping to alleviate and prevent severe acid reflux.

Drawbacks of stomach sleeping

Back pain: According to the Mayo Clinic, sleeping on your stomach can create back pain. That's because the pelvis can release too far forward into the mattress, causing the back to bow out of its healthy "S" posture. To reduce back pain in this position, simply slide a pillow underneath your lower abdomen and pelvis.
Neck pain: When your head is twisted to one side on the pillow for too long, pain can creep into both the jaw and the neck. Using a feather pillow and avoiding pillows with a high loft can help prevent achiness in the morning.
Tingling, sore arms: When you sleep on your stomach with your arms over your head and your neck compressed backward, your arms may start to tingle and fall asleep. This position constricts blood flow to your arms and compresses nerves, leading to sore arms and numb fingers. Using a low-loft pillow and lowering your arms can help alleviate pain.

What stomach sleepers should look for in a mattress

Spine alignment

Keeping your spine in a healthy and neutral posture as you sleep is a crucial part of keeping your back pain-free. Stomach sleepers should look for a bed that supports your body's curves and prevents the spine from being twisted into an unnatural position. Not only will this help you sleep better, but it'll also promote better posture.

Pressure relief

If you're a stomach sleeper, you'll want to choose a mattress that adequately cushions your chest and shoulders, and fills in around your hips, as you press into the mattress. Look for beds that have at least an 8 out of 10 in pressure relief to make sure you're getting the level of cushioning necessary to ward off aches and pains.

Which mattress firmness is best for stomach sleepers?

Mattress firmness is measured on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest. Stomach sleepers need a mattress firm enough to keep the hips and midsection from pushing too far into the mattress. This can cause the spine to sink into misalignment. Look for a mattress that has at least a medium or medium-firm firmness level (think a 5 out of 10 on the firmness scale) to make sure that you have ample support. If you prefer a plusher feel, or something that feels more like a 3 to 5 on the firmness scale, consider a mattress with an added pillow top. You can also buy your own soft mattress topper to make the bed feel a little softer without compromising support.

Best mattress types for stomach sleepers

The most important thing stomach sleepers need from a mattress is support, which means there are certain mattress types that work better for this position than others.

Hybrid

A hybrid mattress is typically a solid choice for stomach sleepers who still want the comfort layers of foam but also need the support of a strong coil base.

Latex

Latex mattresses are an optimal choice for this sleep position because they provide support and pressure relief. A highly durable material, latex also holds up extremely well over time, so stomach sleepers don't have to worry about their mattress losing any of its shape or structure over the years.

Innerspring

Innerspring beds work well for this sleep position, too. However, some stomach sleepers may want more plushness on top to cushion their torso and hips as they press into the bed.

Memory foam

While memory foam mattresses offer plenty of pressure relief, they can sometimes lack the sturdy support stomach sleepers need to keep their hips elevated and their spine in alignment. All-foam mattresses also have a greater tendency to sink and sag, which can cause stomach sleepers to experience spine misalignment (when the spine twists out of its neutral posture), leading to back and neck pain.

Best accessories for stomach sleepers

Pillows

Choosing the right pillow can elevate your sleep experience if you sleep on your stomach. Pick a flat pillow, or sleep without one under your neck—a pillow that's too thick may push your posture out of alignment and cause cramping and neck pain. You can also place a pillow under your pelvis to help prop up your hips and prevent them from shifting too far into the bed as you sleep.

Mattress Toppers

If your current mattress isn't providing enough pressure relief to your chest and shoulders (an important factor for stomach sleepers), consider adding a mattress topper. This accessory offers a more affordable solution than investing in a brand new mattress. Mattress toppers are an additional layer that sits on top of your bed's surface. They alter the feel of your bed, making the top layer more pressure-relieving and cushioning. Available in a variety of materials, mattress toppers can be made of memory foam, polyfoam, latex, and even wool. If your mattress is feeling too firm and you're waking up with joint pain, then consider a pillow-top pad for cushioning. If you're suffering from lower back pain, then consider a latex or firm foam mattress topper to add structure and help keep the spine aligned.

Keep in mind though that a mattress topper can't make up for a lack of support. So if your current mattress is sagging, or doesn't provide enough pushback to keep the hips raised and spine in line, a mattress topper won't solve that. However, if you're experiencing pressure point pain from a too-firm mattress (where support isn't an issue), then a mattress topper can help provide the level of cushioning needed for a healthy night's rest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best mattress for a side and stomach sleeper?

A: Combination sleepers constantly change positions during the night, sometimes moving from their side to their stomach. While these sleep positions benefit from different types of mattresses, you can still find a good bed that works for both. Side sleepers need a mattress that provides pressure relief and keeps their spine in proper alignment. Stomach sleepers tend to prefer a firmer mattress that also supports the spine and doesn't allow the hips to sink too far into the bed. A medium-firm hybrid mattress is a great compromise: It features both foam comfort layers and supportive innerspring coils.

Q: How can stomach sleepers reduce back pain?

A: Researchers have found that sleeping prone (or face down) places a great deal of pressure on the spine, increasing the risk of back pain. So what's a stomach sleeper to do? The answer: pillows. The Mayo Clinic recommends placing a pillow under your lower abdomen and hips to maintain the natural "S" curve of the spine. You can also use a thinner pillow under your head to reduce strain on your neck and upper spine.

Q: Do stomach sleepers need a firm mattress?

A: Yes, but not too firm. The key to comfortable stomach sleeping is finding a mattress that supports the spine and keeps the hips from sinking too deeply into the surface. Overly firm mattresses aren't forgiving to pressure points like the shoulders and hips, and super soft beds can promote poor posture. Look for a mattress that's firmer than your average bed but still comfortable on achy joints.

Final Thoughts

Although being a stomach sleeper is a major piece of criteria to apply toward your search for the right mattress, you'll still want to keep your individual needs and preferences in mind. Decide if you need a mattress that excels at isolating motion (like if you sleep with a partner), or one that sleeps cool and promotes airflow. By knowing your nighttime needs ahead of time, you can find not only the best mattress for stomach sleeping, but the best bed for you.

Our recommendations for stomach sleepers:

Best Overall Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Saatva Classic
Best Mattress for Back Pain: Helix Midnight
Best Luxury Innerspring Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: DreamCloud
Best Value Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Nectar
Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers: The WinkBed
Best Cooling Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: GhostBed Classic
Best Firm Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Brooklyn Bedding Plank
Best Organic Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Birch by Helix
Best Memory Foam Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Casper
Most Responsive Mattress for Stomach Sleepers: Puffy

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