Best Mattress for Bed Sores/Pressure Ulcers - eachnight (2024)

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Virtually everyone on long-term bed rest has heard about the scourge of bed sores and pressure ulcers, and many bed rest patients have likely experienced these painful lesions. Far from being just a nuisance, bed sores and pressure ulcers can become life-threatening because they can lead to conditions like septicemia and gangrene.

Fortunately, there is something you can do to prevent bed sores and pressure ulcers. A pressure-relieving mattress can help absorb the pressure that leads to bed sores (sometimes known as pressure ulcers or pressure sores).

Best Mattress for Bed Sores Overall: Amerisleep AS3

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  • Price:$1049 to $2198
  • Mattress Type:Memory Foam
  • Mattress Height:12 inches
  • Firmness:Medium (5 to 6 on the firmness scale)
  • Best for sleepers prone to pressure sores
  • Available intwin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, California king, and split king

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Warranty

20 Years

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Sleep Trial

100 Nights

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Shipping

Free

Recommended For

  • Hot sleepers

  • Side, back, and combination sleepers

  • Eco-conscious sleepers

Mattress Highlights

  • Plant-based foam mattresses with pressure relieving mattresses for breathable comfort

  • Refresh Cover transforms body heat

  • Zoned transition layer for targeted support

Save $450 on the Amerisleep AS3 with our discount code.

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Those who need a balance of pressure relief mattresses and support to alleviate bed sores without sacrificing spinal alignment should check out the Amerisleep AS3.

9.5 Overall Score

  • 9 Value
  • 10 Edge Support
  • 9 Trial Period
  • 9 Response Time
  • 10 Motion Transfer
  • 10 Cooling & Breathability

Lying down on the AS3, you’ll notice it offers more pressure relief than most medium pressure relief mattresses do. You’ll also notice it has fewer issues with slow response time and heat retention than traditionalfoam mattresses. This is all thanks to the highly contouring plant-based foam in the comfort layer!

Many buyers sought out the AS3 for bed sores and overall health, and most are happy with the results. Here are some reviews:

Steve from the Military: I didn’t have to switch positions constantly to alleviate bed sores on body parts that jut out like my hips and shoulders.

Juan the Soldier: This bed is amazing for back recovery. Some might not realize that there are different ways of treating back pain.

ZZZzzz: Spending a third of the day in bed I wanted to get a mattress that would help with my back pain and the Amerisleep AS3 did just that. I saw the purchase of a mattress as an investment in my health.

The AS3 starts off with a cooling and breathable cover that uses minerals to convert body heat to far infrared energy. This Refresh Cover not only diffuses body heat. It may also help improve circulation, which is vital for bed sore sufferers.

Next comes a layer of Bio-Pur® memory foam. This proprietary plant-based foam provides even more contouring and pressure relief than traditional memory foam mattresses while also offering more bounce and temperature control at the same time!

Next, the HIVE® transition layer provides targeted pressure relief and support to each body area. This allows the mattress to offer sufficient pressure absorption for bed sores and sufficient support for proper spinal alignment.

Finally, the Bio-Core® base foam provides tons of lift and support to keep you from sinking into the sleep surface. This layer of the AS3 also ensures the top-notch durability of the mattress. Expect it to last for at least 20 years.

Pros

  • Refresh Cover dissipates body heat
  • Transition layer provides targeted support
  • Plant-based foam is contouring and responsive

Cons

  • Not entirely synthetic-free

SEE ALSO: Best Mattress Under 2000 Dollars

What the testers say: “I tested the AS3 in my preferred back and side sleeping positions. My spine stayed properly aligned with no sinking around the hips. There was great edge support and sturdy stability across the entire mattress.” – Dr. Colleen Ehrnstrom, Ph.D., AS3 Reviewer

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Read Our Full Review of the Amerisleep AS3 Mattress

Best Hybrid Mattress for Bed Sores: Zoma Hybrid

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  • Price:$799-$1598
  • Mattress Type:Hybrid
  • Mattress Height:12 inches
  • Firmness:Medium (5 to 6 on the firmness scale)
  • Best forpeople who want a responsive yet weightless surface
  • Available intwin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, California king, and split king

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Warranty

10 Years

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Sleep Trial

100 Nights

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Shipping

Free

Recommended For

  • Hot sleepers

  • Most sleeping positions

Mattress Highlights

  • Gel memory foam mattresses for temperature neutrality

  • Pocketed coils adapt swiftly to movements

  • Responsive transition foam limits sinkage

Save $150 on the Zoma Hybrid with our discount code.

Claim Deal

If you have bed sores but tend to toss and turn, check out the ultra-responsive Zoma Hybrid.

9.3 Overall Score

  • 10 Value
  • 10 Edge Support
  • 9 Trial Period
  • 9 Response Time
  • 9 Motion Transfer
  • 9 Cooling & Breathability

The Zoma Hybrid has two layers of bounce: the springy coils and the Reactiv® transition layer. These layers work together to make this one of the most responsive pressure relief mattresses you’ve ever slept on – perfect for those who love to toss and turn.

While reviews are limited for the Zoma Hybrid, the main issue seems to be Mattress firmness:

Jared: Buying pressure relief mattresses is such a pain. We decided to go with the Zoma Hybrid and couldn’t be happier. It is super comfortable. Our old mattress was well overdue to be replaced.

Curtis S: I’m still within my 100 days and haven’t made up my mind yet but my first impression is that this mattress is too firm for me.

Lawrence J: As long as I stay on my back the mattress is fine. When I shift to either side I get pain in my shoulder and hip.

The Zoma Hybrid mattress starts with a plush and breathable AirCloth cover. This cover works overtime to wick away sweat and body heat to ensure a cool sleep surface.

Next, a layer of breathable and thermoconductive gel foam helps draw heat away from your body to improve temperature control even more. These plush memory foam mattresses also offer deep compression for optimal pressure relief.

Next, a layer of Reactiv® material helps increase the responsiveness of these pressure relieving mattresses even more than the coils alone. So you’ll never have to worry about body impressions again.

Finally, a support core of pocketed coils offers adaptable support and pressure relief without sacrificing responsiveness or breathability.

Pros

  • Breathable cover keeps cool air flowing
  • Gel foam draws heat away
  • Responsive transition layer and coil support core increase bounce

Cons

  • May not be firm enough for stomach sleepers

SEE ALSO: Best Mattress for Tall People of 2024

Best Value Mattress for Bed Sores: Vaya Hybrid

  • Price:$549-$1298
  • Mattress Type:Hybrid
  • Mattress Height:14 inches
  • Firmness:Medium (5 to 6 on the firmness scale)
  • Best for sleepers seeking affordable pressure relief mattresses
  • Available intwin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, California king, and split king

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Warranty

10 Years

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Sleep Trial

100 Nights

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Shipping

Free

Recommended For

  • Most sleeping styles

  • Budget shoppers

  • Hot sleepers

Mattress Highlights

  • Affordable quality for a thick profile

  • Porous foam and cotton pillow top

  • Durable base foam with pocketed coils

Save $300 on the Vaya Hybrid with our discount code.

Claim Deal

If you want a pressure relief mattress that can help heal your bed sores without hurting your wallet, check out the Vaya Hybrid.

8.8 Overall Score

  • 10 Value
  • 8 Edge Support
  • 9 Trial Period
  • 10 Response Time
  • 8 Motion Transfer
  • 8 Cooling & Breathability

The Vaya Hybrid features highly adaptable coils and even more adaptable comfort foam. This means it offers an incredibly plush feel for a medium pressure relief mattress, which is fantastic for those who need relief from pressure sores.

While most reviewers of the Vaya are positive, some noted not enough cushioning from springs, which can exasperate bed sores:

Lisa S: Last night was my first night sleeping on the Vaya Hybrid, and wow I’m so glad I did my research and chose this bed!! I’ve been dealing with a bobopedic where the entire side of my body would “fall asleep” from the bad pressure points.

Francis R: After a week and a half of airing it out I had to spray with Febreze to get rid of odor and covered it with a mattress cover to keep my eyes from stinging!

Patricia R: My only complaint is that due to the thin mattress cover, the springs are very noticeable all around the sides of the bed. IMO, that gives the pressure relief mattress an unfinished look compared to most other brands.

The Vaya Hybrid features an ultra-breathable fabric cover with a layer of cotton woven underneath for added pressure relief and breathability.

Next, the ultra-porous memory foam comfort layer adds even more breathability and pressure relief to the mattress. You get all the coolness and deep compression you need to get a great night’s sleep.

Underneath the comfort foam rests a layer of supportive and flexible pocketed coils that can keep your spine aligned and your pressure points cradled all at once. And a base layer of durable foam helps increase the durability of the pressure relieving mattresses so that it outlasts many of its more expensive competitors.

Pros

  • Adaptable coils provide contoured support
  • Durable base foam increases stability and longevity
  • Contouring foam offers fantastic pressure relief for bed sores

Cons

  • No range of firmness options

SEE ALSO:Vaya Mattress Review

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Bed Sores And Pressure Ulcers: Helix Midnight Luxe

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  • Price:$1,099-$2,299
  • Mattress Type:Hybrid
  • Mattress Height:13.5 inches
  • Firmness:Medium (5 to 6 on the firmness scale)
  • Best forside sleepers who prefer a balance of softness and support
  • Available intwin, twin XL, full queen, short queen, king, CA king, RV king

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Warranty

15 Years

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Sleep Trial

100 Nights

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Shipping

Free

Recommended For

  • Side sleepers

  • Hot sleepers

  • Pillow top mattress lovers

Mattress Highlights

  • Coils provide three support zones

  • Balanced feel tailored for side sleeping comfort

  • Cooling foams and choice of cover fabric

Save 20% on the Helix Midnight Luxe with our discount code.

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When it comes to finding the perfect mattress for side sleepers who suffer from bed sores and pressure ulcers, the Helix Midnight Luxe stands out as a top choice. This award-winning premium mattress is designed with a medium-feel, specifically tailored to provide optimal support and comfort for side sleepers and those who toss and turn at night.

The Helix Midnight Luxe not only offers exceptional comfort but also features advanced technologies that help alleviate pressure points and promote a healthier sleep environment. Its carefully crafted layers work together to provide the necessary support and pressure relief, making it an excellent option for individuals prone to bed sores and pressure ulcers.

9.0 Overall Score

  • 7 Value
  • 10 Edge Support
  • 9 Trial Period
  • 9 Response Time
  • 9 Motion Transfer
  • 10 Cooling & Breathability

Settling into the Helix Midnight Luxe is an experience of pure comfort. The premium quilted pillow top welcomes you with a plush, inviting feel, while the Helix Responsive Foam contours to your body, providing a gentle cradle that supports your curves. The medium firmness level strikes the perfect balance between softness and support, ensuring that your body remains properly aligned throughout the night.

As a side sleeper, you’ll appreciate how the mattress adapts to your unique pressure points, particularly in the shoulder and hip areas. The zoned lumbar support coils offer targeted support, with a softer feel under your shoulders and a firmer feel under your hips, promoting spinal alignment and reducing the risk of developing bed sores and pressure ulcers.

The journey to a restful night’s sleep begins with the premium cooling pillow top. This layer offers a choice between two advanced cooling options: an ultra-breathable TENCEL™ cover or a GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover.

Both options are designed to regulate temperature and wick away moisture, ensuring that you remain cool and comfortable throughout the night. The pillow top also provides a plush, luxurious feel that instantly relaxes your body as you settle into bed.

Beneath the cooling pillow top lies the Helix Responsive Foam layer. This innovative foam is engineered to provide a medium feel, striking the perfect balance between softness and support.

As you lie down, the responsive foam gently cradles and contours to your body, distributing your weight evenly and alleviating pressure points. It allows your shoulders and hips to sink in just the right amount, while still maintaining proper spinal alignment.

The next layer is the Copper Gel Memory Foam, which takes comfort and support to the next level. This advanced memory foam is infused with copper, known for its heat-conducting properties, which helps to further regulate temperature and keep you cool throughout the night. The memory foam is designed to react and contour to your body, providing full-body comfort with a medium firmness level.

The transition layer of the Helix Midnight Luxe features Memory Plus Foam, a crucial component in providing optimal support and stability. This layer is designed with a medium feel, allowing it to ergonomically react to your body weight and maintain proper spinal alignment.

The Memory Plus Foam acts as a bridge between the comfort layers above and the supportive layers below, ensuring a smooth transition and minimizing any potential discomfort caused by the different layers.

Then, a layer of up to 1,000 individually wrapped coils. These coils are strategically designed to provide targeted support, with reinforced coils under the hip area to help cradle your body, align your spine, and offer advanced lumbar support.

The individually wrapped nature of the coils minimizes motion transfer, ensuring that you and your partner can enjoy a peaceful, undisturbed sleep. Additionally, the coil layer enhances edge support, allowing you to utilize the full surface area of the mattress without experiencing a roll-off sensation.

At the foundation of the Helix Midnight Luxe lies the DuraDense Foam, a high-density base layer that provides unparalleled durability and long-lasting support. This layer serves as the backbone of the mattress, ensuring that the comfort and support layers above it maintain their integrity and performance over time.

The DuraDense Foam also contributes to the overall stability of the mattress, providing a solid and reliable sleeping surface.

Pros

  • Specifically designed for side sleepers, offering targeted support and pressure relief.
  • Advanced cooling technologies keep you comfortable throughout the night.
  • Zoned lumbar support coils promote spinal alignment and reduce pressure points.

Cons

  • Medium firmness may not be for side sleepers who prefer an extra-soft feel

Best Cooling Mattress for Bed Sores: Nolah Evolution 15

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  • Price:$1799 to $2399
  • Mattress Type:Hybrid
  • Mattress Height:15 inches
  • Firmness:Plush (5 on the firmness scale), luxury-firm (6 to 7 on the firmness scale), firm (8 on the firmness scale)
  • Best for hot sleepers who prefer any sleep position
  • Available intwin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, California king

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Warranty

Lifetime

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Sleep Trial

120 Nights

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Shipping

Free

Recommended For

Mattress Highlights

  • Cooling technologies for swift heat release

  • Zoned coils providing specialized support

  • Buoyant transition foam and bouncy coils

Save with Free Shipping on the Nolah Evolution 15 with our discount code.

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If you need a great mattress for pressure relief and cooling, consider the breathable and thermally conductive Nolah Evolution 15.

9.5 Overall Score

  • 10 Value
  • 10 Edge Support
  • 9 Trial Period
  • 9 Response Time
  • 10 Motion Transfer
  • 9 Cooling & Breathability

The Evolution is designed to be cooling as well as pressure-relieving. You’ll notice right away that these coil and memory foam mattresses is so good at shedding heat that it keeps your skin cool all night. It can prevent pressure ulcers and overheating all at the same time.

While people are sleeping comfortably, it may not be ideal for all sleep styles:

Cameron C: I bought the 3 – plush version of the Nolah Evolution 15. After about a month, I can say the bed provides good support, contouring to align my spine.

Kim B: The shopping experience was easy. Be sure to visit the chart for sleeping positions and weight. I got the softest mattress 16″ deep and am a 150 lb side sleeper. I am blown away by the pain relief in my hip and lower back.

David V: I checked for weeks to find a great mattress and found Nolahs reviews the best. It was so unbelievably easy to order! Mattress came so fast. I have chronic sciatica and fibromyalgia.

The Evolution starts with an organic cotton cover with ArtcticTex™ technology to keep the sleep surface cool to the touch.

Next, the premium cooling Euro top and heat escape gusset work to draw heat away from your body and disperse it out of the mattress. The graphite-infused AirFoamICE™ below ensures that any residual heat that doesn’t escape is pushed further away.

Next, a layer of high-resilience foam and a layer of high-density foam offer deep compression and extra buoyancy before you get to the pocketed coil layer.

Pros

  • Multiple cooling technologies work to keep you cool
  • Firmness options offer a variety of feels
  • Zoned coils provide pressure relief and support

Cons

  • No true medium firmness options

SEE ALSO:Best Cooling Mattress Toppers

Best Adjustable Mattress for Bed Sores: Saatva Solaire

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  • Price:$2525 to $5050
  • Mattress Type:Airbed
  • Mattress Height:13 Inches
  • Firmness:Adjustable
  • Best for sleepers who want the comfort of smart technology
  • Available intwin XL, full, queen, king, split king, California king, and split California king

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Warranty

Lifetime

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Sleep Trial

365 Nights

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Shipping

Free

Recommended For

  • All sleep positions

  • Hot sleepers

  • Sleepers with allergies

Mattress Highlights

  • Adjustable firmness for customizable comfort

  • Pressure-relieving foams for cushion

  • Hypoallergenic drive

Save with Free Shipping on the Saatva Solaire with our discount code.

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If you want the most sophisticated and durable air mattress on the market – one that can adjust its firmness at the touch of a button – check out the Saatva Solaire!

The Solaire is a lot more than an air mattress. It’s an air mattress hybrid with layers of foam. This means it can provide tons of pressure absorption while switching firmness on a dime.

There are thousands of people who have reviewed the Solaire, and several cited less pain:

Carolyn C: I have struggled with back pain for years. The mattress is firm without being rigid and sharp. The quality is wonderful.

Richard W: Purchased the Solaire thinking the adjustable air support would help with my lumbar pain. It has helped but I am still searching for that perfect setting.

Kathy G: I wish I had purchased this bed a long time ago. Please read the specs on this item. They are accurate and factual.

The first layer of the Solaire is the breathable and hypoallergenic organic cotton cover. This cover helps wick away moisture and heat. It also fights microbial growth to protect you from common allergens like mold and mildew.

Next, a combination of a zoned natural latex upper layer and a gel memory foam lower layer offer pressure-free support that disperses heat throughout the night. Underneath these comfort layers, a moisture barrier protects the vulcanized air chambers below.

The support layer is what makes the Solaire a high-tech air mattress. The vulcanized air chambers offer consistent edge-to-edge comfort and 50 precise firmness settings.

Pros

  • Air chambers allow for firmness adjustment at the touch of a button
  • Latex and foam combination offers buoyant pressure relief
  • Antimicrobial treatments fight bacteria and mold

Cons

  • Not compatible with all adjustable bases

SEE ALSO:Best Customizable Mattresses

Best Pillow Top Mattress for Bed Sores Bear Elite Hybrid

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  • Price:$1721 to $3565
  • Mattress Type:Hybrid
  • Mattress Height:14 inches
  • Firmness:Luxury Plush, Luxury Firm, or Extra Firm (5.5, 6.5, or 7.5 on the firmness scale)
  • Best for sleepers looking for a hypoallergenic, pillowy mattress
  • Available intwin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, and split king

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Warranty

Lifetime

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Sleep Trial

120 Nights

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Shipping

Free

Recommended For

  • Hot sleepers

  • Sleepers with allergies

  • Most sleeping styles

Mattress Highlights

  • Copper infusions limit microbes

  • Zoned pocketed coils for specialized contouring

  • Plush cover with quilted feel

Save with Free Shipping on the Bear Elite Hybrid with our discount code.

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If you want a hybrid mattress that fights overheating and allergies all at once, say hello to the Bear Elite Hybrid.

When you lie on the Elite, the first thing you’ll probably notice is its cool-touch surface. Copper infusions help conduct heat away from your body, keeping you cool as a cucumber.

Almost everyone loves the Bear Elite. However, many do report off gassing as a temporary issue. Here are some reviews:

Frank C: I don’t wake up sore but It does sleep hot. I would prefer better cooling.

Chris A: reviewingSo far so good. I may need to return for a firm queen size. I ordered a full and require a little larger bed. Otherwise these beds are simply incredible. The pillows, sheets, and cover are top notch as well.

Steven E: I had to sleep in the guest room for three weeks because of the noxious off gassing. The mattress is comfortable and it is easy to fall asleep. However, I wake up with a stiff back if I sleep more than seven hours. The firm mattress would have a better choice for me. This is my first and last foam hybrid mattress.

The Elite starts with a hypersoft cushioned cover that uses cooling fabric to keep air flowing around your body. The cover works with the hypoallergenic and conductive copper to ensure the sleep surface doesn’t overheat at night.

Next, a layer of dynamic transition foam provides ergonomic support and deep compression to protect you from pressure exerted by the coils below. The pocketed coils offer balanced and adaptable support, with higher-gauge coils in the middle for superior lumbar support.

Pros

  • Dynamic transition foam offers deep compression
  • Enhanced lumbar support relieves pain
  • Copper infusions fight microbial growth to alleviate allergies

Cons

  • No medium-firm option available

SEE ALSO:Best Pillow Top Mattresses

Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Bed Sores: Birch Luxe Natural

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  • Price:$1849 to $3249
  • Mattress Type:Latex Hybrid
  • Mattress Height:11.5 Inches
  • Firmness:Medium-Firm (6 to 7 on the firmness scale)
  • Best for back sleepers seeking a natural mattress
  • Available intwin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king

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Warranty

25 Years

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Sleep Trial

100 Nights

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Shipping

Free

Recommended For

  • Back sleepers

  • Hot sleepers

  • Sleepers sensitive to synthetic materials

Mattress Highlights

  • Organic wool cushion and flame barrier

  • Natural latex foam mattresses with a buoyant feel

  • Zoned coils for responsive support

Save with Free Shipping on the Birch Luxe Natural with our discount code.

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If you want all the pressure relief of plush wool and contouring latex in a medium-firm feel, check out the Birch Luxe Natural mattress.

The Birch features multiple layers of cashmere and wool. That means the first thing you’ll notice is probably the plushness and pressure absorption of this mattress. Yet you should also quickly note the supportive feel of the bed’s pocketed coils.

People who bought the Birch are extremely happy. Here are some reviews buyers left on the site:

Lee H: The best mattress I have ever slept on!! My spouse likes to be very warm when he sleeps I like to be cool. We both have different medical issues, he has had knee replacement, arthritis in his spine. We both are sleeping comfortably in this mattress.

Tessa J: This pillow was one of the most comfortable I have tried & I have medical neck issues. Unfortunately, for this case I use a heating pad on my neck. When using a heating pad near this pillow the latex heated up and the smell was unbearable.

Jane R: I am so pleased with my mattress. I was having back pain every night with my old mattress. Back pain gone! Super comfortable and getting a good night’s sleep every night. Highly recommend.

The Birch starts with an organic cotton cover that wicks away sweat and an organic wool fire barrier to protect you from flames without harsh chemicals.

Next, a comfort layer of organic cashmere and organic wool offers a plush, body-hugging feel that no type of foam can match. A second comfort layer of pure wool adds even more softness.

Under these comfort layers, a layer of all-natural latex foam provides lots of bounce and buoyancy to fight sinkage in the wool comfort layers. Finally, a support core of zoned pocketed coils provides enhanced lumbar support and adaptable pressure relief.

Pros

  • Organic wool provides a plush pressure relieving mattress
  • Organic cotton wicks away moisture
  • Natural latex offers buoyant support

Cons

  • Not firm enough for stomach sleepers

SEE ALSO: Best Mattresses Without Memory Foam

Best Zoned Mattress for Bed Sores: Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid

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  • Price: $1099 to $2399
  • Mattress Type: Hybrid
  • Mattress Height:13.5 Inches
  • Firmness: Soft, Medium, or Firm (3, 5 to 6, or 8 on the firmness scale)
  • Best for sleepers who want a mattress that feels soft and firm as desired under the body
  • Available intwin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king and split California king

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Warranty

10 Years

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Sleep Trial

120 Nights

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Shipping

Free

Recommended For

  • Hot sleepers

  • Most sleeping styles

  • Heavier sleepers (firm)

Mattress Highlights

  • Zoned support from pocketed coils

  • Copper infusions for cooling comfort

  • Gel swirl foam mattresses for temperature consistency

Save with Free Shipping on the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid with our discount code.

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If you want a hybrid mattress that features zoned coils for the perfect balance of pressure relief and spinal support, take a look at the Spartan Hybrid by Brooklyn Bedding.

You’ll notice the zoned pressure relief in this mattress as soon as you lie down. The Spartan has three zones in its coil support layer that offer your pressure points relief and your spine support all at once.

As with many other mattress brands, choosing the right firmness is critical to a pain-free night’s sleep:

Lori S: I purchased a Spartan king mattress from Brooklyn Bedding a month ago. My daughter and son in law recommended the company. It arrived as scheduled and packaged well. Extremely happy.

Paul E: The box arrived in very bad condition but the bed seemed fine, The bed took about two weeks to get used to I was more sore at 1st but now it’s ok.

Tricia B: It is not as firm as we had hoped for a medium firm mattress. I still wake up with a sore lower back. If I had known the medium firm was more soft, I would have purchased the firm.

The Spartan starts off with a Smart Fabric performance cover that helps diffuse heat by converting it to energy. This cover sits directly on top of a layer of copper-infused foam that draws away excess body heat.

The copper foam sits on top of a layer of premium foam. The firmness of this foam depends on the firmness of the mattress you order. You have a choice between soft, medium, and firm.

The transition layer depends on the firmness as well. The soft and medium options have a layer of gel swirl memory foam, while the firm has a layer of VariFlexTM material.

Pros

  • Zoned coils offer the perfect balance of cushioning and support
  • Copper infusions draw body heat away from you
  • Firmness options mean just about everyone can enjoy this mattress

Cons

  • No luxe firm option

SEE ALSO: Best Mattress for Fibromyalgia

Best Dual-Sided Mattress for Bed Sores: Layla Mattress

Best Mattress for Bed Sores/Pressure Ulcers - eachnight (65)

  • Price:$749 to $1249
  • Mattress Type:Memory Foam
  • Mattress Height:10 inches
  • Firmness:Soft (4 on the firmness scale) and firm (7 on the firmness scale)
  • Best for sleepers who want a choice of firmnesses
  • Available intwin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, California king

Best Mattress for Bed Sores/Pressure Ulcers - eachnight (66)

Warranty

Lifetime

Best Mattress for Bed Sores/Pressure Ulcers - eachnight (67)

Sleep Trial

120 Nights

Best Mattress for Bed Sores/Pressure Ulcers - eachnight (68)

Shipping

Free

Recommended For

  • Hot sleepers of different styles

  • Stomach sleepers (firm side)

  • Side sleepers (soft side)

Mattress Highlights

  • Copper infusions maintain a cool, clean feel

  • Flippable firmness for different sleep styles

  • Breathable foam mattresses for comfort and support

Save with Free Shipping on the Layla Mattress with our discount code.

Claim Deal

Many sleepers are unsure what their favorite sleeping position is. Others may want to offer the widest possible comfort for guests without overspending on memory foam mattresses. When it comes to innovative, dual-side comfort at an affordable price, our top recommendation is theoriginal Layla Mattress.

The original Layla Mattress comes with a 120-night sleep trial period and a lifetime warranty.

The firm and soft sides both contain copper-infused memory foam, offering cool and responsive cushion. The soft side is thicker than the firm side, naturally. Copper infusions offer improved heat-wicking, variable support, and microbial protection.

We actually had a hard time finding complaints about Layla. Here is what some had to say:

Beni B:Although it took about two weeks to get used to the new mattress, I’m now sleeping like a baby throughout the night.

George J:Cannot believe we waited so long. No more back pain in the morning. Used to have to ease out of bed and slowly straighten up, not anymore.

Jose P:What can I say but WOW!

As we mentioned, both sides of the foam mattress have a comfort layer of copper-infused foam. Aside from adding responsiveness and coolness, the copper gel also provides a natural barrier against bacteria that can make you sick or simply stink up your mattress.

Underneath the copper foam that establishes the softer side is Max Airflow Support Foam. This middle foam layer relies on Surface Modification Technology, bolstering the variable support offered by the copper foam.

The support core is a 4-inch foam layer, maximizing durability and motion control to minimize motion transfer and unwanted bounce.

The memory foam mattress cover has a black and white design with “soft” and “firm” labels to make it easier. Thermo gels inside the mattress cover adapt to body temperature for a cool-to-the-touch surface. You can remove the mattress cover by unzipping it for easier care.

Pros

  • Max Airflow Support Foam for breathable targeted support
  • Cooling copper infusions promote antimicrobial comfort
  • Firm and soft sides clearly defined by mattress cover

Cons

  • Only soft and firm feels available

Best Mattresses for Bed Sores of 2024 Highlights and Comparison

Mattress NameHighlightsComparison
Amerisleep AS3Plant-based memory foam cushion with targeted support and pressure relief.$1299
Zoma HybridBouncy pocketed coils with gel memory foam and cooling cover fabric.$799
Vaya HybridPlush comfort materials and supportive coils in an affordable design.$799
Nolah Evolution 15Multiple cooling materials create a luxurious pillow top surface.$2299
Saatva SolaireTechnological airbed with dozens of potential firmnesses.$3595
Bear Elite HybridCover with Celliant fibers and PCM on top of copper-infused memory foam.$2111
Birch Luxe Natural MattressGently firm surface with wool and latex foam comfort on top of pocketed coils.$2899
Brooklyn Bedding Spartan HybridZoned coils ensure specialized contouring and support.$1999
Layla MattressTwo-in-one mattress design with soft and firm sides and copper infusions for cool comfort.$1099

How to Choose the Best Mattresses for Bed Sores

Having a mattress that suits your needs can be a game changer for your sleep quality. Sleep expert Dr. Zhang pointed out, a study showed that when people sleep on a comfortable mattress, their sleep quality is significantly better, along with other biomarkers that would indicate a good night of sleep.

What Causes Bed Sores?

Bed sores, also known as pressure sores or pressure ulcersVerified Source Medline PlusOnline resource offered by the National Library of Medicine and part of the National Institutes of Health.View source, are caused by too much pressure on the skin that blocks blood flow. Usually, this pressure is caused by lying down in the same position for long periods of time, hence, the term “bed sore.”

Those most at risk to develop pressure ulcers are those on long-term bed rest. If you’re older, have mobility issues, or have comorbid conditions that affect the skin, nerves, or circulatory system, you could be even more at risk. So for example, a good mattress for seniors should also be one that can minimize the odds of a pressure ulcer.

A pressure ulcer is not just a painful nuisance. If left untreated, they can cause infections like septicemiaVerified Source Medline PlusOnline resource offered by the National Library of Medicine and part of the National Institutes of Health.View source and gangreneVerified Source Medline PlusOnline resource offered by the National Library of Medicine and part of the National Institutes of Health.View source that can threaten your limbs and even your life. That’s why they need to be taken seriously and dealt with as soon as they’re detected.

Ideal Mattress Materials for People with Pressure Ulcers

Since too much pressure is the main cause of sores, you’ll want a mattress that can absorb large amounts of pressure. Of course, the firmness of your mattress has a lot to do with its ability to relieve pressure, but the material it’s made of has an impact as well.

There are constructions and materials that are better at absorbing pressure than others, but you shouldn’t just run out and buy the plushest mattress material you can. If you wind up with a type of mattress that relieves pressure but doesn’t offer optimal sleep, you’ll have an entirely different set of problems.

Memory Foam

Memory foam is potentially the best mattress material to fight developing pressure ulcers because it’s so good at relieving the pressure that causes the pressure ulcers. A memory foam mattress can mold itself to your shape in a way other materials just can’t.

This deep compression offers the most pressure relief on the market. This is what makes foam mattresses so fantastic for pressure ulcers, especially for sleepers who prefer positions that require a bit more firmness – like back and stomach sleepers. Firm mattresses with memory foam can still be highly conforming.

Memory foam might be the best for pressure relief, but it does have some issues that certain sleepers should know about. For instance, those who sleep hot might not appreciate foam’s tendency to retain heat. You can combat the temperature control issues with a gel memory foam mattress, but this solution is still not as cooling as other materials. An extra firm mattress can provide the necessary support to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by pressure points that cause too much pressure pain.

Latex Foam

Natural latex foam comes from the processed sap of the rubber tree. There are two basic types of latex: Talalay and Dunlop. Each of these latex types comes from the exact same liquid sap. It’s the processing that makes all the difference. Dunlop latex is extremely buoyant and supportive, while Talalay is more flexible and contouring.

Natural latex has the edge on memory foam in two key areas: responsiveness and breathability. Latex mattresses bounce back as soon as you move without the need for springs. It can also breathe naturally to shed heat better than even gel foam. This makes it a better alternative for hot sleepers and active sleepers.

If you’re going to go with latex foam, we’d recommend a Talalay latex mattress for preventing developing pressure ulcers because it’s lighter and more contouring than Dunlop, so it’s better at absorbing pressure.

Also, be aware that both latex varieties are not as contouring as foam. When comparing latex to memory foam, types of latex tend to want to retain their own shape. This means latex, on the whole, is not quite as pressure-relieving as foam. This is the main drawback of latex mattresses for people with pressure ulcers.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses generally make a better alternative to pure memory foam mattresses for people with pressure ulcers. Foam hybrids are especially good at offering pressure relief without sacrificing bounce and cooling.

For people with bed scores, Dr. Zhang suggests, it’s important to have a mattress that promotes air circulation and moisture control to prevent the buildup of heat and sweat, which can exacerbate symptoms for sores.

This is all thanks to the hybrid mattress’s combination of foam comfort layers and pocketed coils. The comfort foam layers and individually wrapped coils work together to adapt to your body shape and absorb pressure.

At the same time, the coils are much more breathable and responsive than base foam of any kind. This means a foam hybrid offers the contouring of foam and the coolness and bounce of coils – all in the same mattress.

The main issue with hybrids is their expense. Hybrid mattresses are almost as expensive as latex mattresses though it is possible to find hybrids among the best mattresses under $1000. However, they’re not nearly as durable as latex because their pocketed coils lose tension and wear out.

Innerspring

Of all the mattress types out there, innerspring mattresses are the worst for pressure ulcers. This is because they cannot contour very well, and their open coil support cores tend to exert more pressure than they absorb.

The main problem with open coils is they’re wired together into a network that stretches the entire length and width of the mattress. This means they tend to sag instead of contouring, letting your spine fall out of alignment and exerting pressure where they should be absorbing it.

Aside from this, open coils have a lot of other problems. Comparing open coils to pocketed springs, they wear out much quicker than pocketed coils, meaning you cannot expect most innerspring mattresses to last more than a decade. The fact that open coils have no encasement means they also start making noise in as little as a year or two.

Finally, innerspring mattresses are too rigid to be compatible with an adjustable bed. So if you have a hospital bed or even just a regular adjustable bed for seniors, you won’t be able to use it with an innerspring mattress.

Ideal Firmness Level for People with Pressure Ulcers

If you have pressure sores, the best firmness level to help alleviate them is soft. However, even the best soft mattress may not be the ideal firmness level for you overall. You’ll need to take other factors into account when deciding on a firmness level to fit your needs.

Mattress firmness falls on a scale of one to 10, with one being the softest. However, virtually all pressure relief mattresses actually range in firmness from three to eight. This is because mattresses on either extreme of the spectrum would not be comfortable.

The best advice we can give those with pressure sores is to get a mattress as soft as possible without sacrificing the support they need for their body type and sleep position. Browsing the softer mattresses in a box is an easy way to choose a mattress from home and have it shipped to your front door.

Sleeping Position

Your sleep position has an outsized impact on your firmness needs because it decides how your spine lines up on the bed and where your pressure points are. This means you shouldn’t spring for an overly soft mattress – even if you have sores. You’ll just be trading one form of pain for another with a too-firm or too-soft mattress. That’s why you should still pay attention to your sleep position, even with sores.

Back Sleepers

Back sleepers need a mix of support and pressure redistribution that slightly favors support. Sleeping on your back means you need a mattress that can follow the natural curve of your spine. Mattresses for back sleeping must compress under your buttocks and rising to meet the dip in your lumbar region.

This usually means you need a medium-firm mattress (6) if you sleep on your back. Those with pressure ulcers might consider going down to a medium (5).

SEE ALSO:Best Pillows for Back Sleepers

Combo Sleepers

Combo sleepers don’t have a strong preference for a single sleep position and like to change things up from night to night. They might sleep on their sides one night and their backs the next. Some combination sleepers even change positions a few times during the same night.

All this means combo sleepers need a mattress that’s versatile enough to offer sufficient pressure relief and support regardless of the position they adopt. Medium mattresses usually fit this bill. Such mattresses for combination sleepers should have enough support for combo sleepers’ tossing and turning and enough pressure redistribution for bed sore sufferers to get some relief.

Side Sleepers

Side sleepers need the softest mattresses of all sleepers – which incidentally works out well for side sleepers with sores, as softer pressure relief mattresses offer the most pressure relief. When you sleep on your side, your body weight presses your joints into the mattress.

A soft (3) or medium-soft (4) mattress for side sleeping can help counter these issues by compressing deeply underneath your pressure points. This absorbs pressure and helps keep your spine aligned and your joints pain-free.

SEE ALSO:Best Pillows for Side Sleepers

Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleepers have the opposite problem as side sleepers. Sleeping on your stomach tends to allow your pelvis to sink too far into the mattress. This, in turn, overarches the spine and causes lower back pain. This means stomach sleepers usually need firm (7) or extra-firm (8) mattresses. However, the issue is that firmer mattresses for stomach sleeping can exacerbate sores.

Stomach sleepers can try to go down a firmness level to a medium-firm to fix this issue. They may also try alternating pressure by switching positions from time to time.

Body Type

Your body type is not as much of a factor when it comes to your firmness needs as your sleep position, but it does have an impact.

The mattress industry generally considers the average human weight range to fall between 130 and 230 pounds. Thus, they design pressure relief mattresses to offer the ideal pressure relieving mattress and support to people who fall between these two numbers.

If you fall within this range, you don’t typically need to worry about your body type impacting your sleep needs. Just get the firmness that corresponds to your sleep style. If you fall outside this range, you’ll need to alter your mattress firmness accordingly.

Plus-Size Sleepers

Those who come in at over 230 pounds are considered heavier or plus-size sleepers. If you’re on the heavier side, you’ll need to go up a firmness level from the one that corresponds to your sleep position to get enough support to stay on top of the sleep surface. So for example, a heavyset side sleeper may want to look at mattresses for heavy sleepers with a medium or even a medium-firm feel.

Petite Sleepers

Those who weigh in at less than 130 pounds should do the opposite of what plus-size sleepers do. Petite sleepers should go down a mattress firmness from the one that corresponds to their sleep style. Without the right mattress for lightweight sleepers, they might get insufficient compression for adequate pressure relief.

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FAQs

What is the best firmness level for people with bed sores?

The best way to prevent bed soresVerified Source Medline PlusOnline resource offered by the National Library of Medicine and part of the National Institutes of Health.View source is to relieve as much pressure as possible. This means the best mattress firmness for sores is as soft as your sleep position will allow.

Side sleepers and combo sleepers can generally have soft to medium mattresses, which are best at relieving pressure. Keep in mind that if you tend to sleep on your back or your stomach, you will still need a good bit of support. This means you’ll need to take your sleep position into account, as well as your sores. Try to go as soft as you can without sacrificing the support your spine needs to remain optimally aligned.

Can sleeping on the wrong mattress cause bed sores?

The wrong mattress can cause you to develop sores. Pressure ulcers are caused by long-term pressure on the same spot. When you lie in the same position for long periods of time, the pressure cuts off the blood flow to the skin and causes it to become irritated.

Changing positions from time to time while you’re on bed rest can help prevent developing pressure ulcers, as can getting a pressure-relieving mattress. The wrong mattress can exert pressure on your skin and worsen sores. The right mattress will absorb pressure and help alleviate your pressure ulcers.

Which mattress material can best help my sores?

To alleviate pressure sores, you’ll need a mattress that can contour to your body, following its shape to relieve pressure. This means foam might be the best option. Memory foam is flexible and can follow the curve of your body to relieve pressure on the areas most likely to experience developing pressure ulcers, as well as pressure points that may experience pain without proper contouring.

Can a mattress topper help with bed sores?

Mattress toppers can definitely help with pressure ulcers, especially if your bed is overly firm. If a too-firm mattress is part of the problem, a thick and plush mattress topper can help. Plush mattress toppers add lots of contouring and pressure relief to your existing mattress.

Such a soft mattress topper can help alleviate your sores without necessitating that you replace your whole mattress. Just remember, you’ll want a plush topper made of foam or – in certain cases – Talalay latex foam. You’ll also want a topper that’s at least two inches thick. For the most pressure relief, opt for toppers of three or even four inches.

Will an adjustable bed help heal my bed sores?

An adjustable or hospital bed can help with pressure sores, as well as many other conditions that can arise from long bouts of bed rest. Elevating the legs and head over the heart with an adjustable bed can help take pressure off of the areas of the body that are most likely to develop pressure-related sores.

What’s more, elevation can also help a common problem encountered by those on bed rest – inflammation and edema. Elevating the legs can help push fluid out of the feet, ankles, and calves to reduce swelling. There are also adjustable beds for back pain and other pain issues, as raising the body can lower pressure on the joints and other sensitive areas.

Bottom Line

If you’re on long-term bed rest, you don’t have to accept pressure ulcers as “just a given.” In fact, the right mattress can help you make these painful and sometimes dangerous skin lesions a thing of the past.

Best Mattress for Bed Sores/Pressure Ulcers - eachnight (69)

Dr. Burns tests each mattress at eachnight’s facility to make sure the recommendations are based on real, expert reviews.

About the author

Rosie Osmun CERTIFIED SLEEP COACH

Rosie Osmun, a Certified Sleep Science Coach, holds a degree in Political Science and Government from the Arizona State University College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Her academic accomplishments lay a solid foundation for her role in the health and wellness industry. Her certification as a Sleep Science Coach further underscores her proficiency in the field of sleep and wellness.

With over 13 years of hands-on experience in the beauty, health, sleep, and wellness industries, Rosie has cultivated a deep understanding of the science of sleep and its impact on overall health and wellbeing. Her dedication to helping others improve their sleep quality is evident in her practical, evidence-based advice and tips.

Her contributions to various publications, including Forbes, Bustle, and Healthline, as well as her regular contributions to Amerisleep’s blog, demonstrate her standing in her field. These platforms, recognizing her proficiency, rely on her to provide accurate and relevant information to their readers.

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