Stomach sleeping is an uncommon sleep position with an unfortunate side effect of twisting your spine. As a stomach sleeper, I'm familiar with the problems this unusual position can cause — painful neck, aching back, numb hips — but I also know finding the right mattress for stomach sleeping worked wonders for my comfort.
While there's no one-size-fits-all stomach sleeper bed, you'll notice the mattresses in this guide share two common features: a firmer feel and plenty of support. These two attributes help lift and straighten the spine, so you can avoid the dreaded stomach sleeper's back ache.
We've spent thousands of hours reviewing the best mattresses you can buy online in 2025 and the ones that made it into this guide are the beds that impressed the stomach sleepers on our testing panel. Below you'll find a mattress for every type of stomach sleeper, plus today's best mattress sales.
We have a new number one mattress for stomach sleepers, with the recently tested Helix Dawn moving into the top spot. In turn the Dusk Luxe, our former leader, has replaced the Tempur-Adapt as our favorite luxury bed. We've also expanded our 'tested and recommended' section, so you have more choice.
The best mattress for stomach sleepers overall
The Helix Dawn mattress was designed for stomach sleepers and this targeted construction has resulted in a mattress that excels at support. While it doesn't use dedicated lumbar enhancement (although this is available as an upgrade) the spring base is combined with multiple firm foams to lift and straighten the back. This includes a latex foam, with a responsive finish to maintain support even if you toss and turn.
When it comes to mattresses for stomach sleepers it's easy to focus on support over everything else. But the Dawn impressed across our tests. The edges are strong, the motion isolation is excellent and while it's not as cool as the Bear Elite Hybrid, it's still breathable. We also found it good at relieving aches and pains (if years of stomach sleeping has resulted in an achy back.)
It's not a luxurious mattress — opt for the Helix Dusk Luxe if you want indulgence — but at $1,099 it's excellent value for money.
What we like about it
✅ It supports from head to toe: Like many of the best hybrid mattresses, the Helix Dawn pairs a spring base with multiple layers of foam. Here, however, these foams are firmer than usual to lift and straighten the spine.
✅ Excellent value for money: At just $1,099 for a queen in the standard Helix mattress sale, the Helix Dawn is affordable with the build quality of a more expensive mattress.
✅ Strong all-round performance: it's easy to get caught up in the support features when choosing a mattress for stomach sleepers but the Helix Dawn performed well across the board, with strong motion isolation, sturdy edge support, and decent temperature regulation.
What we don't like about it
❌ Not luxurious: The Helix Dawn is a mid-range mattress and that's reflected in the overall look and feel. For something with a more indulgent finish, consider the Helix Dusk Luxe below (or the Helix Dawn Luxe, which we haven't had a chance to test yet.)
❌ Can hold onto some heat: There's some minor heat retention to the Dawn which might cause problems if you experience night sweats or hot flashes. Consider the GlacioTex cover upgrade or try the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress.
I loved sleeping on the Helix Dawn mattress, so much so it pained me to return it to our studio for further testing. It lifts the shoulders and spine to keep the back straight and reduce aches and pains, while subtle contouring eases pressure build up at the hip. In the regular 20% off sale the Helix Dawn is good value but if you can wait to shop, there's often 27% off around major holidays.
Read more: Helix Dawn mattress review
The best budget mattress for stomach sleepers
The Siena may be a cheap mattress but don't let its low cost deceive you. This memory foam mattress delivers exceptional support with a pronounced firmness that primarily benefited our stomach sleepers. Although Siena rates it as a 6.5 out of 10 on the mattress firmness scale, with 10 indicating rock hard, we found it closer to 8-9.
This doesn't result in much 'yield' (combi sleepers might prefer the more forgiving DreamCloud) but as an all-foam bed there is some pressure relief. You can feel the foam contour to the hips, even if it's not as pronounced as the beds we typically rate among the best memory foam mattresses.
The Siena also does an excellent job of isolating movement and it exceeded our expectations when it comes to temperature regulation (although it can't compare to the Bear Elite Hybrid.) For dedicated stomach sleepers, it's hard to find better value for money than the Siena — a permanent Siena mattress sale cuts a queen to $359.
What we like about it
✅ Impressive benefits: You never have to pay more than $400 for a queen Siena Mattress and it comes with a 180-night trial and 10-year warranty, which are impressive benefits for this price bracket.
✅ Great value support: Cheap mattresses often struggle with sagging foams and diminishing comfort but the Siena delivers reliable support and we predict it will last for many years.
✅ Breathable feel: The Siena isn't a cooling mattress but the firm foams maintain a neutral temperature throughout the night. For even better cooling at a mid-range budget, try the Cocoon by Sealy Chill in our Also Tested section.
What we don't like about it
❌ Much firmer than advertised: This isn't necessarily a bad thing for stomach sleepers but the Siena is much harder than the 'medium-firm' it claims. You won't know what you're getting until it's here with the Siena.
❌ No foam 'hug': If you're opting for a memory foam bed because you want a 'hug' feel, the Siena will disappoint. Consider a mattress like the Nectar Classic Memory Foam, which delivers more contouring while remaining supportive.
Memory foam mattresses as a whole rarely have the support a stomach sleeper needs, so imagine my surprise when the cheap all-foam Siena proved ideal for front lying. It's much firmer than expected but there's still a touch of cushioning thanks to the memory foam top layer, creating a cozy feel. At just $359 for a queen it's unlikely to have the durability of our top rated choice but I still think it will deliver many years of support. Keep an eye on Amazon Siena sales as well — I've spotted some real bargains there in recent weeks.
Read more: Siena Memory Foam mattress review
The best luxury mattress for stomach sleepers
Our testers described the Helix Dusk Luxe as "a dream for stomach sleepers" and we found it provides the right amount of body-contouring pressure relief along the knees, shoulders, and hips. Ideal for those who want cushioning without sacrificing support — it's the softest mattress in this guide.
The Dusk Luxe also does a good job at providing motion isolation, making it a nice choice for bed-sharers who don't want to be disturbed by their partner's restless movements. We think that's largely thanks to the plush quilted surface, which also contributes to the luxurious feel of the Dusk Luxe.
However, we did find it trapped some heat, despite the breathable Tencel cover, so hot sleepers may want to try the Bear Elite Hybrid, or add the cooling cover upgrade for $187. But as it's already a premium mattress, we might have hoped for more integrated cooling tech.
What we like about it
✅ Luxury look and feel: The combination of tall build and quilted top give the Dusk Luxe an indulgent feel. One of our top-rated luxury mattresses and a stomach sleeper bed you can't wait to climb onto.
✅ Customizations available: The Dusk Luxe comes with optional support and cooling upgrades, so you can tailor the mattress to suit your needs (and your budget.)
✅ Ample support with a softer finish: Most of the mattresses in the guide have a firm feel. The Helix, on the other hand, delivers buckets of support with a softer finish (well, medium-firm, to be accurate.)
What we don't like about it
❌ Too soft for some stomach sleepers: While the medium feel masks a sturdy and supportive core, heavier front sleepers might prefer a firmer finish, like the Helix Dawn (or the Helix Dawn Luxe, for similar luxury with a firm feel.)
❌ Cooling features are extra: Our testers felt the temperature regulation of the Dusk Luxe was fine, if not as good as the Bear Hybrid Elite. Additional cooling features are available for an charge but as a premium bed, we hoped they'd be included.
❌ Expensive: The Dusk Luxe does feel luxurious and the high build quality means it should last for many years but it is $1,899 for a queen. The DreamCloud is a better choice for tight budgets.
The Dusk Luxe looks and feels like a luxury option for stomach sleepers, with a thick quilted surface that delivers more pressure relief than most beds in this guide. Some stomach sleepers might prefer something firmer, although as someone who tends towards hard mattresses, I was impressed with the support of the Dusk Luxe. It's $1,899 for a queen in the 20% off Helix sale which is an investment (and that's not including the cooling and support upgrades) so you might want to wait for the next 27% off deal for this one — they tend to come around of a major sales days.
Read more: Helix Dusk Luxe mattress review
The best mattress for stomach-sleeping couples
The DreamCloud mattress is an affordable hotel-style mattress, with excellent motion isolation, a quality finish and a medium-firm feel that suits most sleep positions. If you're a stomach sleeper who shares a bed, the DreamCloud should keep both you and your partner happy. Unless one of you is a lightweight side sleeper. In that case, consider the Nectar Classic.
The DreamCloud shines as an all-rounder, alleviating our lead testers back and hip pain while being comfortable enough for all sleep positions. Our front sleepers praised the DreamCloud's pressure relief and the support in the hip region but for targeted support, consider the RX instead.
We think the DreamCloud is the best mattress in a box we've tested for all sleepers, pairing excellent value (it's only $649 for a queen) with a versatile feel. If your budget won't allow for the Helix Dusk Luxe, this is the best alternative.
What we like about it
✅ Great for couples: The medium-firm feel, pressure relieving foams and excellent motion isolation make the DreamCloud ideal for couples, particularly those of an average build.
✅ Budget-friendly luxury: In the year-round DreamCloud mattress sale a queen will set you back around $649, which we think is fantastic value. It's boosted further by generous extras: 1-year sleep trial, lifetime warranty, and free shipping and returns.
✅ All over support: Our testers felt supported from head to toe on the DreamCloud, even when lying close to the edge. This allows you and your partner to use the entire surface of the mattress.
What we don't like about it
❌ Too firm for some lightweight sleepers to get cozy: It took the lightest members of our testing team a while to break the DreamCloud in. Side sleepers with a small build might prefer the softer feel of the best memory foam mattresses... but your stomach sleeping partner will be less pleased.
❌ Too soft for some stomach sleepers to feel supported: The flipside of the issue above, the DreamCloud's medium-firm feel will be too soft for some front sleepers, particularly those with a heavier build. Consider the Helix Dawn Mattress instead.
DreamCloud is a good all-rounder: when this mattress reached our testing studio every member of the team found it comfortable. It's also exceptional value for money at just $649 for a queen. Some stomach sleepers might want to upgrade to the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid mattress for a touch more support but if you and your partner have different sleep needs, the DreamCloud Hybrid should make everyone happy (including your bank account.)
Read more: DreamCloud mattress review
5. The best latex mattress for stomach sleepers
The Avocado Green Mattress is our favorite organic mattress overall, as well as our number one pick for eco-friendly stomach sleepers. Needle-tufted by hand and packed with GOLS-certified latex, wool and cotton, its durable Dunlop latex and sturdy steel coils offer firm support that's perfect for front and back sleepers, while the naturally breathable materials wick away sweat for those who sleep hot (consider the Bear Elite Hybrid for more robust cooling.)
After a relatively short breaking in period, our lead Avocado Green Mattress tester rated it very highly for stomach sleeping comfort. The firmer feel keeps you on top of the mattress, preventing any painful dips in your spine. The bouncy feel makes it easy to change positions and despite its buoyancy, the motion isolation impressed our testers. If you want a mattress with less bounce, consider the all-foam Plank Firm.
As an organic mattress the Avocado Green is a premium bed but latex is known for its durability — you should get a good return on your investment.
What we like about it
✅ Eco-friendly build: Avocado is a leader in the organic mattress market and the Green Mattress is packed with sustainable, greener materials such as latex, wool and GOTS-certified cotton.
✅ Responsive support: Made using coils and latex foams (two materials known for their bounce) the Avocado Green springs into place when you move to keep you completely supported, even on restless nights..
✅ Naturally breathable: We awarded the Avocado Green Mattress full marks when it comes to temperature regulation as the heat-wicking natural materials create a neutral feel even on warm nights.
What we don't like about it
❌ Latex is too bouncy for some: Our testers loved the buoyant feel of the Avocado Green Mattress but for some, it might be too bouncy. The Plank Firm is an alternative with a similar firmness but a deadened feel.
❌ Limited pressure relief: The latex foams don't provide much contouring, which can result in some pressure build up at the hips. If you tend to wake up with sore spots, consider the quilted surface of the Helix Dusk Luxe.
❌ High price tag: We think the Avocado Green is worth the money and it should deliver long-term support but the cheaper Avocado Eco Organic mattress offers green sleep on a budget.
Latex foams are, generally, a good mattress material for stomach sleepers as they tend towards a firmer feel and have a quick, responsive support. And as one of the best organic mattresses we've tested, the Avocado Green is a natural choice — in every sense, due to the eco build. Latex isn't for everyone, I love the cradling feel while some prefer a mattress with more sink, but you do have 365 nights to test it out. Organic beds are often premium choices so stay alert for Avocado mattress sales, which can save you as much as 15%.
Read more: Avocado Green Mattress review
The best cooling mattress for stomach sleepers
A tall, luxury cooling hybrid, the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress is the best cooling mattress we’ve tested. As a bonus, the firmer feel and gentle contouring are excellent for stomach sleepers.
This exceptional cooling is partly thanks to the Celliant-infused cover, available as an optional upgrade (on an already pricey bed... try the Cocoon by Sealy Chill for cheaper temperature control.) But even without this enhanced cover, the Bear Elite Hybrid is a breathable mattress. The standard design features PCM (Phase Change Material), while the memory foam is infused with copper — two features commonly used in cooling mattresses.
But we’re here to find the best mattresses for stomach sleepers and in this area the Bear Elite Hybrid also impressed our testers. Its tall coil base features a reinforced lumbar area to keep the hips aligned, while the quilted cover has contouring with little sink. It helps that you can choose your firmness level, too.
What we like about it
✅ Enhanced cooling: The Bear Elite Hybrid uses multiple cooling features to prevent overheating, so you can sleep comfortably even in the middle of summer. Add the Celliant cover for the most cooling impact.
✅ Multiple firmness levels: We tested the Medium Bear Elite Hybrid and found it comfortable for stomach sleeping. But with options to choose from, the Firm might be a better for average to heavier front sleepers.
✅ Zoned lumbar support: The coil base of the Bear Elite Hybrid features ergonomically zoned support. The springs are stronger in the center of the bed, lifting the lower back and hips to alleviate back pain.
What we don't like about it
❌ Celliant cover costs extra: You need to add the Celliant cover to enjoy the full cooling impact of the Bear Elite Hybrid but this optional extra will set you back around $195 for a queen. The Cocoon by Sealy Chill isn't quite as powerfully cool but at $699 for a queen it's more than $1,000 cheaper.
❌ Weaker support at the foot of the bed: While our tester felt comfortable sitting on the sides of the bed, the mattress was weaker at the foot and head. This might be an issue for taller stomach sleepers.
If you often wake up warm, the cooling prowess of the Bear Elite Hybrid can help you sleep through the night while the strong support and three firmness levels makes it suitable for stomach sleepers. Without the Celliant cover a queen is typically $1,578 (reduced from $2,427 with 35% off) and that jumps to $1,773 when you add the upgrade. But we think it's worth it for hot sleepers. If you're unsure about the expense, try timing your purchase with a rare 40% off Bear mattress sale but be warned — we aren't expecting another one until November.
Read more: Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress review
The best mattress for stomach sleepers with back pain
The Saatva RX is our top mattress for back pain and it mixes softness with sturdiness for comfortable front sleeping. Specially built for those with chronic back and joint conditions, the RX features a combination of micro-coils, memory foam modules, and targeted lumbar support to hold the spine straight while delivering pressure relief..
We found the Saatva RX suitable for stomach sleeping, much firmer than the brand's 'supportive plush' rating. This harder feel delivers great support for stomach sleepers with back issues; our lead tester suffers from chronic lower back pain and found the RX immediately reduced her back and joint pain.
But it does so at a premium price tag, with the RX the most expensive mattress in this guide — a queen has an MSRP of $3,399, while the WinkBed delivers targeted support for just $1,799. But you do get a lot for your money with the RX, including good temperature regulation, strong edge support and 15 inches of mattress.
What we like about it
✅ Exceptional back support: Lumbar zone quilting, a zoned memory foam crown, dense foams and microcoils come together to lift the lower back and relieve aches and pains.
✅ Market leading benefits: The Saatva RX comes with a 365-night trial (a full year to test the bed at home), lifetime warranty (a reassurance of quality) and free white glove delivery and optional mattress removal (removes the labor for those with back pain.)
✅ Tall build: Measuring 15 inches tall and finished in the classic Saatva gold and white coloring, the Saatva RX is an indulgent mattress for front sleepers.
What we don't like about it
❌ Tall build: Yes, it's a pro and a con. At 15 inches tall, sleepers with shorter builds might find getting onto the RX a bit of a clamber. The Helix Dusk Luxe delivers luxury from just 13.5 inches.
❌ High price tag: The most expensive option in this guide, even regular Saatva mattress sales can't negate the fact this is one pricey bed. A queen has an MSRP of $3,399, compared to the $1,799 of the WinkBed.
❌ Returns cost $99: Not a deal breaker but most mattresses in this guide offer returns for free.
With targeted relief for back pain (a common problem among stomach sleepers) the RX is a luxuriously supportive choice. The biggest downside is the price and at $3,399 MSRP for a queen, it's almost three times the cost of our number one choice. Still, while I haven't got my hands on the RX I have tested the flagship Classic mattress from the same brand and found its performance lived up the price tag. Based on our testers experience, I predict the RX does the same.
Read more: Saatva Rx Mattress review
The best mattress for heavier stomach sleepers
The WinkBed Plus is a luxury hybrid mattress geared toward larger people. It's made with high-density anti-sag foam, a 2.5-inch zoned latex support layer, and heavy-duty reinforced coils to land a place on our guide to the best mattresses for heavy people. (The Plank Firm, below, is another good choice for stomach sleepers with a bigger build.)
Beyond the Plus, the WinkBed is available in three firmness levels. We tested the Luxury Firm and it impressed us with its pressure relief and all-around support. The WinkBed Plus is slightly firmer than this with upgraded support — verified user reviews suggest the Plus model meets its goal of delivering excellent spinal relief for heavier sleepers.
The WinkBed sits in the premium price bracket but the DreamCloud has a similar feel for less. However, the WinkBed's superior support and enhanced mattress weight capacity makes it one to consider.
What we like about it
✅ Third-party durability tested: To ensure durability and consistency, WinkBeds enlists a third party to simulate 20 years of bed use by a 350lb sleeper.
✅ Support for bigger stomach sleepers: Lying on your front is bad for your back and this problem can be exacerbated if you have a bigger build (more weight to sink into the mattress.) The WinkBed Plus delivers support for larger people, no matter your sleep preferences.
✅ Multiple firmness levels: Outside the Plus, the WinkBed is also available in soft, medium and firm feels. We tested the Luxury Firm and liked it for all sleep styles but the Firmer feel will suit some stomach sleepers better.
What we don't like about it
❌ Other mattresses deliver better bang for your buck: At $1,499 for a queen ($1,699 for a queen Plus) the WinkBed isn't cheap. The DreamCloud delivers a similar feel for less but without the targeted support of the WinkBed.
❌ Holds onto some warmth: At this price bracket we'd expect better cooling from the WinkBed, which our testers found could hold onto some heat. The Bear Elite Hybrid is a breathable alternative.
Third-party durability tested and designed to support every body size, the WinkBed Plus is ideal for heavier sleepers who like to lie on their front. At $1,699 for a queen Plus in the permanent WinkBed mattress sale it's perhaps not the best value bed in this guide but if you want support you can rely on no matter your size or sleep position, the WinkBed is hard to beat.
Read more: WinkBed mattress review
9. Best firm mattress for stomach sleepers
We often recommend the best firm mattresses for stomach sleepers and they don’t come much firmer than the Plank. This double-sided mattress features a core of incredibly dense memory foam to create exceptional support across the entire bed.
On one side on the Plank you'll find an Extra Firm feel and it lives up to its reputation: this is the firmest mattress we've reviewed. Our lead tester found it lifted and aligned their spine, while the edge support is so strong we could use this mattress as a chair. The Firm side is softer (we rate it on a par with the Helix Dawn) and added cushioning gives makes it the better side for combination sleepers. Although it's still hugely supportive
Both sides can trap warmth, although a GlacioTex upgrade is available for hot sleepers. And as a double-sided bed we did have one complaint: no handles makes it hard to flip from side to side.
What we like about it
✅ The firmest mattress we've tested: Emulating the hard support of Japanese floor mattresses, the Plank is for those who often feel let down by supposed 'firm' beds.
✅ Exceptional edge support: The Plank Firm is so strong at the sides we could use it like a table. For stomach sleepers that means even if you spread out your extremities shouldn't lose support.
✅ Double sided design gives more choice: Firm one way and Extra Firm the other, you can pick what the Plank feels like each night depending on your needs.
What we don't like about it
❌ Foams can trap heat: If overheating is an issue for you, we recommend upgrading to the GlacioTex cover, or opting for the Bear Elite Hybrid.
❌ Extra Firm side is very firm: Stomach sleepers often prefer a firmer mattress but the Plank is firmer than most. The Helix Dawn is more of a crowd pleaser at a similar price.
❌ No handles: A minor complaint but as the Plank Firm is designed to flip from one side to the other, something to hold onto would make it easier.
It took me a moment to adjust to the Plank Firm — it really is as hard as the name suggests — but my hips were immediately grateful for the support and after a few weeks I could appreciate the subtle pressure relief. It's not a crowd-pleaser, so if you share with a lightweight side sleeper I'd give this one a miss, but the double-sided extra firm design is unique. And at only $999 for a queen in the year-round sale, competitively priced.
Read more: Plank Firm Mattress review
How we test mattresses
The Tom's Guide mattress review process is editorially independent and not influenced by third parties. We test mattresses in all key areas — pressure relief, comfort and support, temperature regulation, motion isolation and durability — to determine our product recommendations. If it's good enough, it goes in our best mattress guides.
Mattress comfort is subjective, so alongside our lead reviewer a testing team, consisting of people with different body types and sleep needs, try the mattress. To ensure we get a well rounded review, we test the mattress in a variety of different sleep positions.
It takes roughly three weeks to break in a mattress, so our lead reviewer spends this period at minimum trying the bed. We also use objective weight tests to back up our subjective reviews. You can learn more about the testing process with our mattress methodology.
How we choose mattresses for this guide
When we test mattresses, our reviewers test them from every position to gauge their overall comfort. Some of our testers are naturally stomach sleepers and can speak to their particular needs from that position.
Stomach sleepers need a mattress that will keep their hips level with the rest of their body. Too soft and their hips will dip too low – but too firm and their hips will be too elevated. Either situation can create discomfort and possibly pain.
As you can see from our list, stomach sleepers don't necessarily need an extra-firm mattress – our top-rated choice, the Helix Dusk Luxe, has a medium bed feel. That said, comfort is subjective, and there's no standard across brands as they have their interpretations of what's firm or soft. You'll notice that some of our picks are rated firmer than advertised by our testing team.
Thus, it's imperative to make sure your mattress comes with a proper trial period. Every one of our expert picks comes with at least 90 nights to try them for yourself at home. A reliable warranty is also important, and several of the mattresses featured here come with lifetime coverage.
Mattresses we're also testing
We're always researching, testing and reviewing new mattresses for stomach sleepers, to ensure you're getting the best choices on the market at the moment. Here are some mattresses we're currently testing that might suit stomach sleepers:
Avocado Grand Luxe: The most luxurious organic mattress you can buy? Perhaps, and with a firmer feel we're hoping this bed will appeal to stomach sleepers looking to indulge.
Saatva Solaire: Adjustable mattresses like the Solaire should, technically, suit every sleep style and we're excited to see how this translates to a luxury Saatva mattress. From early testing it's in the running for the best smart beds of 2025.
Sleep Number i8: Like the Solaire, the Sleep Number i8 is an adjustable firmness mattress. We're in the midst of testing and early data suggests it's a good choice for couples.
Birch Natural Luxe: The standard Birch Natural mattress is one of our highest rated organic mattresses and we're hearing good things from our tester about the Natural Luxe — one to keep an eye on.
Ego Home Hybrid: The Ego Home is an Amazon bestseller and a potential candidate for our favorite cheap mattress guide.
Also tested and recommended
We've tested a lot of mattresses at Tom's Guide and we're always on the look out for the latest model to try. Below are the mattresses that didn't make it into the guide but are still worth considering if you're a stomach sleeper.
Mattresses for stomach sleepers: FAQs
When should you buy the best mattress for stomach sleepers?
Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.
Historically, Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales have been the cheapest time to buy a new mattress. You'll find some incredible mattress bargains but also some standard sales disguised as special discounts. However, as we've seen in recent years, other major sales events now feature the same markdowns as Black Friday — or in some cases, even better deals.
Memorial Day mattress sales, in particular, have been very strong. These deals precede what's traditionally considered a low point for mattress offers, but we've been pleasantly surprised by the most recent crop of July 4th mattress sales.
When shopping for mattresses during a sale events, make sure to track each bed's price history. We always make sure to include a mattress's price history in our deal posts, buyer's guides, and our mattress sales hubs.
Aside from our shopping advice, we recommend using price-tracking tools such as Wayback Machine and Camel, Camel, Camel. Also, be sure to plan ahead and check shipping times to ensure that you'll get your mattress by your preferred date.
How to choose best mattress for stomach sleepers
You will need to know how to choose a mattress that keeps your hips level with your shoulders. Generally, that's a firmer mattress, such as an innerspring or hybrid with a supportive base.
If your mattress is too soft for your body, sleeping on your stomach can often make you sink into the bed and push your spine out of alignment. You'll also want to avoid anything too firm that'll shift your hips upward.
Usually, it’s best to avoid memory foam mattresses, as their body-contouring, plush feel tends to be built for side sleepers. However, some all-foam beds with a firmer-than-average feel can accommodate front sleepers.
Need some additional guidance in your search for the best mattress for stomach sleepers? We reached out to a couple of medical experts for their input:
Peter Polos, MD, is an Assistant Professor of Sleep Medicine at Hackensack JFK University Medical Center. He's board-certified in pulmonary and sleep medicine with a PhD in microbiology and immunology.
Danielle Wall, MD, is an internal medicine physician from the University of Vermont and a sleep advisor for Sit 'n Sleep. Her travels around the world to Ghana, Malawi, Mexico, the Philippines, and Panama highlighted a glaring need for accessible healthcare, which cemented her desire to become a doctor.
Do stomach sleepers need a firm or soft mattress?
If you're a stomach sleeper, Dr. Wall and Dr. Polos both agree that you should look for a firm to medium-firm mattress to keep your spine and hips level to avoid the spine from arching, which can lead to pain and discomfort.
Your upper body should be well-supported, too. Dr. Polos notes that a firmer bed will help reduce strain on the neck, back, and shoulders – and also prevent your chest from sinking, a common issue for stomach sleepers who sleep on softer beds.
Do the materials matter? Absolutely, as it can influence the overall comfort of your bed. "Memory foam mattresses frequently offer good contouring and pressure relief, whilst latex mattresses provide both support and bounce. Mattresses with innersprings or a hybrid structure that provide adequate firmness and support may also be acceptable for stomach sleepers," says Dr. Wall.
Remember that firmness is subjective, which is why top sleep brands include a mattress trial with purchase. Your body generally needs three to four weeks to settle into a new sleep surface – fortunately, the average trial period is 100 nights, and some brands offer up to a year.
Is sleeping on your stomach bad for you?
While you can sleep on your stomach if you find it comfortable, medical professionals generally discourage it. "Sleeping on one's stomach may put more pressure on the neck, chest, and internal organs, which could be painful and interfere with breathing," warns Dr. Wall. It can put more stress on your back and alter the natural curve of your spine, as well.
Even if it doesn't particularly bother you right now, sleeping on your stomach could lead to issues later in life. "As you age, you are more prone to medical issues and neck, back, and shoulder pain, and this position can lead to more complaints," says Dr. Polos.
Ultimately, you'll want to train yourself to sleep on your side or sleep on your back, as either position is better for your health. However, if you can't (or don't want to) break your stomach sleeping habit, you should have a mattress that'll sufficiently support this position.
- Read more: What happens to your body when you sleep on your stomach?
- Read more: 3 reasons why stomach sleeping is bad for you — and how to switch positions
Do stomach sleepers need a pillow?
Finding the right pillow to complement your mattress can make a huge difference in sleep quality, but do stomach sleepers need a pillow at all? It depends.
"Some stomach sleepers are more comfortable with a thin pillow to support their head and neck. Others may sleep better without a pillow, thereby further reducing the angle imposed on their neck," says Dr. Polos.
If you prefer to use a pillow while sleeping on your stomach, Dr. Wall says to make sure the loft is low enough to keep your head and neck neutral. Otherwise, it could cause your neck to extend too far and cause pain.
An adjustable pillow will allow you to make your pillow as high or low as you need it to sleep comfortably. Take a look at our guide to the best pillows for some inspiration.
