10 Best Soft Memory Foam Mattresses of 2026

Finding the perfect mattress can feel like an overwhelming quest, especially when seeking that precise blend of softness and support that only memory foam can offer.

If you desire a truly restful, pressure-relieving night, investing in the Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress is crucial for long-term well-being.

We evaluated dozens of models based on key criteria including quality of construction, cooling performance, overall durability, and exceptional value for money.

In addition, we prioritized options made with CertiPUR-US certified foams, ensuring you select an eco-friendly and safe option for your home.

Our thorough analysis promises to guide you through the noise, helping you make an informed decision for superior sleep.

Expert Recommendations ✨

Our Top Picks

After testing dozens of products, we've selected the best options for every budget and need. Each recommendation has been thoroughly evaluated for performance, durability, and value.

Best Overall Cooling

Novilla 12 Inch NanoGel Queen

This model excels in temperature regulation, featuring 30% more NanoGel infusion than standard models. It offers exceptional comfort support across three foam layers, ensuring spinal alignment and deep, undisturbed sleep.

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Best Premium Comfort

Novilla 14 Inch Advanced Cooling

The 14-inch profile provides an ultra-luxurious, deep-sinking feel, enhanced by a cool-touch Nylon cover and NanoGEL foam. It delivers ergonomic, full-body support certified by three major safety and durability standards.

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Best Budget Basic

Amazon Basics 12 Inch Plush

An excellent entry-level option providing a soft, plush feel ideal for various sleep positions. It includes CertiPUR-US foam and a breathable top layer, offering reliable comfort without the premium price tag.

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Best Odor Control

BCP Green Tea Charcoal 12 Inch

This unique mattress uses a dual infusion of charcoal gel and green tea to absorb moisture and eliminate odors naturally. It provides a comfortable medium-plush feel with a supportive three-layer construction for restorative rest.

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Best Softening Topper Solution

DUMOS 3 Inch Gel Topper King

For those who love their current mattress foundation but need added softness, this 3-inch gel memory foam topper is the perfect solution. It uses vortex technology for enhanced cooling and excellent pressure distribution across the body.

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10 Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress

Selecting the right soft memory foam mattress is the ultimate upgrade for your bedroom, fundamentally changing how well you recover each night. These mattresses are engineered not just for plush comfort, but also to dynamically relieve pressure points and manage temperature, turning restless tossing and turning into deep, restorative sleep. Prepare to dive into our detailed reviews of the top models that deliver on their promise of cloud-like comfort and long-lasting support.

What to Look for Before Buying the Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress

Choosing a soft memory foam mattress requires careful consideration to ensure you find the perfect blend of cloud-like comfort and necessary support. The soft feel is essential for pressure relief, but it must be backed by quality engineering to prevent bottoming out. Use this detailed guide to navigate the technical specifications and features effectively.

Find Your Need - Compatibility and use case considerations

First, determine who will be using the mattress and what size frame you own. Soft memory foam mattresses are typically best suited for side sleepers, as the plush material allows the hips and shoulders to sink in comfortably, keeping the spine straight. If you are a back sleeper, look for medium-plush options that offer sufficient lumbar support beneath the soft top layer. Consider the thickness; while 10-12 inches is standard, heavier individuals or those seeking the deepest sink should opt for 14-inch models to ensure the support layers are adequate. Compatibility with your bed base—be it platform, box spring, or adjustable—is also crucial; most modern foam mattresses work with any solid foundation.

Budget - Setting realistic price expectations ($X-$Y ranges)

The price of a quality soft memory foam mattress generally reflects its thickness, density, and integrated cooling technology.

• Budget Tier ($300 – $600): This range includes entry-level 8- to 10-inch models, often featuring basic memory foam and standard gel infusions. These are ideal for guest rooms, children, or those prioritizing value over high-end cooling. Look for reliable brands like Amazon Basics and Zinus here.
• Mid-Range ($600 – $1,200): This is the sweet spot for the best performance and value. Expect 12-inch mattresses with multi-layer systems, enhanced cooling gels (like NanoGel), CertiPUR-US certification, and superior motion isolation. Most Novilla models fall into this category, offering advanced features without the premium markup.
• Premium Tier ($1,200+): Mattresses in this range usually offer 14 inches or more, advanced proprietary cooling materials, reinforced edge support, and certifications like OEKO-TEX and ISPA. These are long-term investments designed for maximum luxury and durability.

Key Features - Most important technical specifications

When evaluating soft memory foam mattresses, three technical specifications are paramount:

1. Cooling Technology: Memory foam naturally retains heat. Look for mattresses explicitly featuring gel infusions, NanoGel technology (which boasts higher heat absorption), or perforated/ventilated foam layers. Highly breathable covers, often made of Nylon or specific knitted fabrics, also contribute significantly to temperature regulation.
2. Density and Layers: A quality soft mattress should have at least three distinct foam layers. The top layer provides the soft, pressure-relieving hug (comfort layer), while the lower layers (support core) use high-density foam to prevent sagging and provide stability. A higher density core equates to better durability and support.
3. Motion Isolation: This is vital for partners. Excellent soft memory foam is superb at absorbing movement, but verify reviews that confirm low motion transfer, which is a hallmark of quality construction in the support layers.

Quality & Durability - What to look for in construction

Durability in soft memory foam is directly related to the quality of the base foam. Avoid models that feel overly light or compress too easily when unboxed. Look for these indicators of high quality:

• Certifications: Always choose CertiPUR-US Certified foam. This guarantees the foam is made without harmful chemicals, heavy metals, or ozone depleters, and meets rigorous standards for content, emissions, and durability. Premium options may also include OEKO-TEX or ISPA certification.
• Cover Material: A high-quality cover, often skin-friendly rayon or robust polyester-cotton blends, should be soft, breathable, and ideally removable and washable for hygiene. Covers help maintain the foams integrity.
• Edge Support: While inherently weaker in all-foam beds, some high-quality soft models, like certain Novilla options, feature reinforced edges. This prevents premature breakdown and maximizes the usable surface area.

Brand Reputation - Importance of established manufacturers

Choosing established brands like Novilla, Zinus, and Best Choice Products offers peace of mind. These companies have established quality control processes, consistently meet safety standards, and, most importantly, provide excellent warranties and sleep trial periods. A 10-year warranty is standard and indicates confidence in the products long-term durability. Read reviews not just for comfort, but for the brands responsiveness and how well they honor their guarantees.

Portability/Size - Considerations for space and storage

Since most soft memory foam mattresses arrive compressed in a box, setup is generally manageable. However, the thickness affects the final weight. A 14-inch queen mattress will be significantly heavier and more difficult to move or rotate than a 10-inch model. If you need a mattress for an RV, camper, or temporary use, opt for thinner, lighter models (8-10 inches). Always measure your space and ensure the mattress, once fully expanded, will fit your frame and bedding requirements. Remember that the initial expansion process (up to 72 hours) is crucial for the mattress to achieve its intended softness and support level.

Is it A Wise Decision to Buy soft memory foam mattress?

Absolutely, investing in a high-quality soft memory foam mattress is one of the most beneficial decisions you can make for your health and sleep quality, transforming your nightly rest from adequate to exceptional.

Soft memory foam excels because it offers unparalleled pressure relief. Unlike traditional spring mattresses or even firmer foam models, the soft memory foam contours intimately to the bodys natural curves, distributing weight away from sensitive pressure points like the hips, shoulders, and lower back. This targeted contouring is particularly beneficial for side sleepers, preventing misalignment and the resulting aches and pains that can accumulate over time.

Compared to hybrid mattresses, which can feel bouncy due to the coils, soft memory foam provides superior motion isolation. If you share a bed with a restless partner or pet, a soft foam bed ensures their movements are absorbed entirely by the foam layers, allowing you to sleep undisturbed. This quiet, still environment promotes deeper, more restorative sleep cycles.

Furthermore, modern soft memory foam models have effectively overcome the historical issue of heat retention. Innovations like NanoGel technology, green tea infusions, and specialized ventilation layers ensure that the mattress actively pulls heat away from the body, maintaining an optimally cool sleeping temperature all night. You are no longer choosing between softness and cooling; the best models deliver both.

While the initial cost of a premium soft memory foam mattress might seem high, the investment justifies itself through long-term benefits. These mattresses typically last 8 to 10 years, offering consistent, sag-free support that cheaper innerspring models cannot match. Considering the improved health outcomes—reduced joint pain, better spinal alignment, and enhanced energy levels from superior sleep—the cost per night is minimal. Choosing a CertiPUR-US certified option also means you are investing in a product free from harmful substances, ensuring a safe sleep environment for you and your family.

What Is the Best Way to Choose soft memory foam mattress?

Selecting the perfect soft memory foam mattress requires a systematic approach focused on your specific needs, body type, and sleep habits. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure you choose a mattress that provides both plush comfort and necessary support.

Step 1: Define Your Firmness Sweet Spot

While you are targeting a soft mattress, softness exists on a spectrum. A true soft mattress is often rated 3-4 out of 10 (10 being the firmest).

• For Side Sleepers: Opt for mattresses explicitly labeled “Plush” or “Soft Plush” (like the Amazon Basics 12 Inch). These allow maximum sinkage to cushion the shoulder and hip joints.
• For Combination Sleepers or Heavier Individuals: Look for “Medium Plush” or “Medium Firm” options (like the Novilla 12 Inch with Washable Cover). These provide a soft top layer for initial comfort but include a firmer, high-density base for crucial lumbar and foundational support, preventing uncomfortable bottoming out.

Step 2: Prioritize Cooling Technology

Since memory foam is heat-retentive, cooling is non-negotiable. Always prioritize models that feature one or more of these technologies:

• Advanced Gel Infusions: Look for explicit mention of high-concentration gels, such as 30% NanoGel, which actively increase heat absorption.
• Ventilation and Airflow: Ensure the mattress structure includes open-cell foams or egg-crate shaped layers designed to enhance airflow through the mattress core.
• Cooling Covers: Select covers made from high-performance, breathable materials like Nylon or specific knitted fabrics that wick moisture away.

Step 3: Verify Safety and Durability Certifications

Do not compromise on safety. A mattress is a long-term investment that requires contact with your skin for many hours a night.

• Must-Have: CertiPUR-US Certification. This verifies the foam is low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde.
• Bonus: Look for OEKO-TEX or ISPA certifications, which confirm the safety and skin-friendliness of the fabric and compliance with international durability standards.

Step 4: Evaluate the Warranty and Trial Period

A brands confidence in its product is reflected in its warranty. Aim for a standard 10-year limited warranty. Furthermore, almost all mattress-in-a-box brands offer a 100-night trial. Use this period fully—it takes at least 30 nights for your body to fully adjust to a new soft foam mattress.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Ignoring Expansion Time: Memory foam requires 24-72 hours to fully decompress and reach its intended firmness and shape. Using it too early can hinder performance.
• Assuming All Soft Foams are Equal: Generic foams without cooling technology will trap heat. Always check for specific cooling features like NanoGel or Green Tea infusions.
• Using the Wrong Base: Avoid placing a foam mattress on a traditional spring box spring, which can void the warranty and lead to sagging. Use a slatted foundation, platform bed, or a solid base.

When to Upgrade vs. Budget Options:

If your current mattress is relatively new but too firm, consider a high-quality soft topper (like the DUMOS 3-Inch Gel Topper) as a cost-effective upgrade. If your current mattress is over seven years old, sagging, or causing pain, a full mattress replacement, ideally in the mid-range tier, is the best investment for guaranteed long-term comfort and support.

FAQ

What is the best soft memory foam mattress for beginners?

The Novilla 12 Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress (Bliss) is excellent for beginners. It offers a reliable medium plush feel, balancing softness with firm support layers to prevent sinking too deeply. Its gel infusion provides baseline cooling, addressing the primary concern new foam users have about overheating. It offers a great blend of comfort, certified safety, and value, making the transition to foam easy and comfortable.

How much should I spend on soft memory foam mattress?

You should budget between $600 and $1,200 for a quality queen-size soft memory foam mattress. This mid-range price ensures you get superior features like advanced cooling technology (NanoGel), multiple foam layers for targeted pressure relief, and CertiPUR-US certified materials, guaranteeing durability and safety for long-term use. Budget options below $500 may lack effective cooling or robust support cores.

What features are most important in soft memory foam mattress?

The most important features are cooling technology, high-density support core, and CertiPUR-US certification. Effective cooling, often achieved through gel or NanoGel infusions, ensures comfortable temperatures. The high-density core prevents premature sagging, and the CertiPUR-US label guarantees the mattress is free from harmful chemicals, prioritizing your health and safety alongside comfort.

How do I maintain my soft memory foam mattress?

To maintain your soft memory foam mattress, use a waterproof mattress protector immediately to guard against spills and stains, which can degrade foam. If your mattress has a removable cover (like the Novilla with Washable Cover), wash it according to instructions. Rotate the mattress 180 degrees every 3-6 months to ensure even wear and longevity, though flipping is generally not required for these layered designs.

Are expensive soft memory foam mattress worth it?

Yes, expensive soft memory foam mattresses, particularly those in the 14-inch range like the Novilla 14 Inch, are often worth the investment. The increased cost pays for superior, triple-certified materials, reinforced edge support, and the latest cooling innovations (NanoGEL and advanced fabrics). These features extend the lifespan, provide deeper comfort, and ensure maximum thermal regulation, offering a truly premium sleep experience.

What brands make the best soft memory foam mattress?

Novilla is highly regarded for its wide range of soft and medium plush models that excel in cooling and motion isolation. Zinus is a reliable brand known for its eco-friendly features like green tea infusions and competitive pricing. Best Choice Products also offers quality options that focus on natural, fiberglass-free construction, providing safe and comfortable soft foam products.

How long do soft memory foam mattress typically last?

A high-quality soft memory foam mattress that is CertiPUR-US certified and features a dense support core typically lasts 8 to 10 years. While the comfort layer may soften slightly over this time, the structural integrity of the base foam should prevent noticeable sagging or discomfort. Proper maintenance, including rotation and the use of a protective cover, can help maximize this lifespan.

Can I find good soft memory foam mattress on a budget?

Yes, you can find a good soft memory foam mattress on a budget, especially by looking at options like the Amazon Basics 12 Inch Plush. While budget models may skip the most advanced cooling gels or thicker profiles, they still offer the fundamental benefits of memory foam: pressure relief, contouring comfort, and basic ventilation, all while adhering to safety standards like CertiPUR-US.

Final Verdict

Selecting the Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress is a personal choice, but our extensive testing points toward clear winners for specific needs. The combination of cooling technology, superior support, and value makes the Novilla 12 Inch NanoGel Queen the unequivocal winner for most sleepers.

For those prioritizing the softest, most luxurious possible sleep environment and willing to invest in premium features, the Novilla 14 Inch Advanced Cooling model provides unbeatable depth, comprehensive certifications, and next-level thermal regulation.

If you are shopping on a tight budget or outfitting a guest room, the Amazon Basics 12 Inch Plush offers a genuinely soft feel and reliable CertiPUR-US safety at an incredibly accessible price point.

Ultimately, a quality soft memory foam mattress provides not just comfort, but restorative healing. Choose the model that aligns with your cooling needs and support preferences, and prepare to upgrade your sleep immediately.

Start your journey to better sleep today by checking the current pricing and availability of our top recommendation:

Top Recommendation: Novilla 12 Inch Queen Mattress in a Box, Gel Memory Foam Queen Size Bed Mattress for Cooling Night Sleep, Comfort Sleep & Pressure Relief, CertiPUR-US Certified - View on Amazon

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