Are 8-inch mattresses good for heavy people? I'm a sleep writer, here's my take

First thing's first: the thicker the mattress, the more materials you can fit in. So eight-inch mattresses often have to sacrifice some layers to maintain the thin build.

But the best mattresses for heavy people need to be packed with support features, so every inch of your body can enjoy long-lasting comfort. As a result, they tend to have taller designs with impactful support cores.

An eight-inch mattress isn't an automatic no-go for bigger builds but choose the wrong one and you might feel like you're sleeping on the floor. If you or your partner weight over 240lbs, here's everything you need to know about eight-inch mattresses.

What is an eight-inch mattress?

Measuring from the base to the cover, an eight-inch mattress sits at the lower end of our recommended mattress thickness but is still within suitable range for an adult body.

However, due to the thinner build, eight-inch mattresses are often better utilized in guest rooms, where infrequent use places less demand on the materials.

Children and teens can also benefit from eight inch mattresses, as their growing bodies require different support needs.

Why does mattress thickness matter?

Mattress thickness is rarely the most important metric when choosing a bed but it can influence several key components.

For a start, taller mattresses (12 inches and above) often feature more comfort layers, creating a plush feel. As side sleepers need plenty of cushioning to sink their shoulders into, taller beds are often among the best mattresses for side sleepers.

Height can also impacts support, as thick mattresses are able to utilize taller support layers. For example, the Titan Plus Core mattress measures 12 inches tall — eight of those inches are the spring core. As a result tall beds can often deliver robust support (one of the reasons they're so suitable for bigger builds.)

Additionally, an eight-inch mattress typically has a simple build, often just two layers. A taller mattress, on the other hand, has space for transition layers to increase durability.

How thick should a mattress for heavy people be?

We recommend a mattress thickness of 12 inches and above for heavy people. These taller builds are able to incorporate the strong support cores needed to ensure long-term, comfortable sleep for people with heavier bodies.

We've spoken a lot about mattress support, so let's focus in on what that really means for your sleep.

When you lie on a mattress, the materials respond to the pressure of your body. You'll probably notice yourself sinking into the bed in certain places, like the hip and shoulder. The heavier you are, the more the mattress will dip beneath you.

On a mattress with a taller build, you'll have ample layers to sink through before things get uncomfortable.

However, the thinner design of an eight-inch mattress means there are fewer layers to respond to the pressure of your body. As a result, you might feel you're sinking too far into the mattress, forcing your spine into uncomfortable positions and causing pressure build-up at the touch points.

(For a similar reason we rarely recommend thinner mattresses to side sleepers, who tend to sink in at the shoulders.)

You might wake up feeling sore, poorly rested, as though you might as well have slept on the floor.

Over time, this regular application of pressure will cause the materials to deteriorate. With only eight inches of mattress in the first place, this break-down can happen quite quickly.

What to look for in an eight-inch mattress for heavy people

We can't rule out eight-inch mattresses entirely for sleepers weighing over 250lbs, as these lower profile beds are sometimes necessary for those with reduced mobility. They also look better in smaller rooms.

However, if you or your partner weigh over 250lbs and you're thinking of investing in an eight-inch mattress, these are the features to look for:

1. High quality materials

A thin mattress can sometimes overcome its slight build through the use of high quality materials.

For example, small amounts of high density foams (including latex foams) and sturdy mattress springs might create better support than a super-thick mattress made with poor quality materials.

A good example is the Essentia Stratami Mattress. We tested the eight-inch model and the latex build ensures ample support, even in a thin design.

2. A strong support base

Every layer of a mattress is important but if you weigh over 250lbs and you want an eight-inch bed, we recommend paying close attention to the support base.

A base layer of springs, like those found in the best hybrid mattresses, is often the best way to create even support for all body types.

However, springs themselves don't automatically indicate support. Look for low gauge coils (lower gauges are thicker) and pocket springs.

While it is possible to get a memory foam mattress for heavy people, most high weight capacity beds are hybrids. All-foam mattresses need a dense base foam to create optimal support.

Consider the layers around the base as well. Transition foams enhance durability by acting as a buffer between the upper layers and the core. They aren't always used in eight-inch beds but when they are employed that can increase durability.

3. A suitable weight capacity

All mattresses come with a weight limit. A standard queen size mattress might have a limit of 600lbs, capable of supporting two people with an average build. A queen mattress for plus-sized couples, on the other hand, might have a weight limit of 1,000lbs.

Weight capacity vs mattress thickness

Mattress thickness is important, but when choosing a bed for heavy people there's one number you should pay attention to above all else: mattress weight capacity.

While it's rare to find an eight-inch mattress with a weight capacity of 600lbs and above, it's not impossible.

On the other hand, even some super thick mattresses have a smaller total weight limit, meaning they aren't suitable for those with bigger builds.

So while thickness does play a role in both comfort and support, if you want a bed that's right for your body type, capacity is key.