Written by Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
Managing arthritis pain is important at all times, but it’s particularly crucial before bedtime. If you go to bed in pain, you’re almost certain to have trouble sleeping. The chronic pain of arthritis can dramatically impact your sleep as well as your waking life. For people with this condition—as well as those experiencing other kinds of joint pain—the right bed may provide some relief.
The best mattresses for arthritis pain comfortably conform to the curves of your body and reduce the pressure on key areas. At the same time, they should provide reliable support and responsiveness so that you aren’t simply sinking into the layers.
Below, we’ve listed our top beds for people with arthritis, along with shopping tips for finding a mattress that suits your personal experience of joint pain.
Our Pick for The Best Mattress for Arthritis
The Helix Midnight earned out top spot due to its responsive hybrid design which supports most sleepers. It balances support and pressure relief, the perfect combination for folks suffering from arthritis or joint pain. You should feel comfortably cradled but still have the ability to reposition with ease.
Best Mattresses for Arthritis
- Helix Midnight – Editor’s Pick
- Nolah Signature – Best Mattress for Pressure Relief and Arthritis
- WinkBed – Best Mattress for Heavy People with Arthritis
- Bear Original – Best Mattress for Arthritis and Back Pain
- Birch Natural – Best Organic Mattress for Arthritis
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Arthritis in the Hips
- Layla Hybrid – Best Cooling Mattress for Arthritis
- DreamCloud – Best Hybrid Mattress for Arthritis
- Saatva Classic – Best Mattress For Seniors With Arthritis
- Leesa Original – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Arthritis
How We Chose the Best Mattresses for Arthritis
Here at Sleep Advisor, we pride ourselves on our in-person testing and reviews, a process we’ve refined over the years to ensure you receive the best unbiased information. Our diverse cast of testers includes people of varying sizes, shapes, and with different preferences. We find out how a bed feels for a swath of body types and every possible sleeping position.
We test a bed’s performance in plenty of categories, including (but not limited to) pressure relief, support, motion isolation, and more. Then, we consolidate our findings into laymans’ terms so you can make an informed decision about which mattress is right for you. For more in-depth information on our testing process, you can check out our methodology.
For this roundup, we prioritized features that are especially important for arthritis support. We paid special attention to components such as mattress thickness, support elements, weight capacity, and pressure relief. More on that below.
Advice from a Medical Expert
We reached out to Dr. Raj Dasgupta, who has over 20 years of experience in the medical field, to see his thoughts on what key qualities people with arthritis should look for in a mattress.
“For arthritis relief, pick a mattress that is supportive, has good cushioning for pressure points, medium firmness, minimizes motion transfer, and keeps you cool to help you sleep better and wake up with less joint pain.
What We Want to See in a Mattress for Arthritis
When it comes to the best mattress for arthritis, there’s a few things you may want to consider alongside your own personal preferences. Here’s a few that we considered when choosing the beds on this list:
Pressure relief.
When you lay in any sleeping position, it’s possible for pressure to build up around the areas that dig into a mattress. This can be difficult to manage for folks with arthritis, since they may already be experiencing pain. A great bed for arthritis should relieve pressure for a more comfortable sink.
Cushioning.
In conjunction with pressure relief, it’s important that a mattress for arthritis can cushion sensitive joints to hopefully prevent the exacerbation of existing pain.
Support.
A soft mattress on its own won’t do the trick. Sinking too far into pressure-relieving, cushiony layers can also be a problem. You want your weight to remain evenly distributed on the mattress surface, and your spine to remain in the proper alignment.
Compare Beds for Arthritis
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| Helix Midnight Mattress | Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Bear Original Mattress | Birch Natural Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress | Layla Hybrid Mattress | DreamCloud Original Mattress | Saatva Mattress | Leesa Original Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Soft: 4/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium: 5.5/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Innerspring | Foam |
| Cooling | — | — |
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| Warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 25-year warranty | 10-year warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free white glove delivery | Free shipping |
| Trial Period | 100 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 100 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 100 nights |
| Best For | Couples, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers | Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Couples, Back Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Couples | Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers |
Our Top Mattresses for Arthritis, Reviewed
Helix Midnight – Editor’s Pick
Helix Midnight Mattress
Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.
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Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Helix Midnight Earned Best Mattress for Arthritis Overall
If you’re stuck between getting an innerspring or all-foam mattress for your arthritis, the Helix Midnight is a hybrid design that offers the best of both. The bed features several layers of quality comfort foam for pressure relief, followed by a coil unit and an extra foam layer for support. These layers are designed to deliver excellent pressure relief to the joints, and with the bed’s medium-firm feel, this should be a good match for most sleepers with arthritis.
It’s a great middle-of-the-road bed, so it’s earned our top spot as a mattress that’s sure to please most customers.
What’s the Helix Midnight Made Of?
The Helix Midnight stands 11.5 inches tall and has five total layers plus a cover. There are two options for said cover: the standard Soft Touch cover or the cooling GlacioTex™ cover for an added fee.
The first three layers of the mattress are made of CertiPUR-US® certified foams. First is Helix’s proprietary, pressure-relieving memory foam blend. Next are two layers of a more responsive foam to provide extra cushioning while maintaining a bouncy feel.
The innerspring unit lies underneath these layers; it’s made up of individually wrapped coils that support your body and help to dampen motion.
The longer edges of the mattress are reinforced for sturdiness. This all sits on top of another base layer of dense CertiPUR-US® certified foam.
Our Take: “On my back, I feel really comfortable and evenly supported. I like how the foams feel soft, but not too soft, like I’m sinking in and getting stuck.” – Emma Mattei, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Bounces back – Emma also noticed the Helix Midnight had great responsiveness: “I can move and adjust positions, no problem.”
- Decent motion isolation – Hybrids usually perform poorly in this category, thanks to their coils, but the Helix Midnight surprised us with its ability to control motion transfer.
Potential Drawbacks
- Distinctly hybrid feel – According to Emma, “If you want that old-school memory foam feel, this bed may not be for you.” The Helix Midnight likely won’t “hug” or cradle you like an all-foam mattress.
- Not for stomach sleepers – Emma also thought this bed felt a little too soft when she tried it on her stomach. It might not give you crucial support in your hips if you prefer this position.
Customer Reviews of the Helix Midnight
The Helix Midnight rates 4.5 stars out of 5 on Helix’s website. The main negative is that reviewers tend to find it too soft for their liking and feel as though they’re sinking. But overall, users say they’re getting a great nights’ sleep and some pain relief.
Need more info? Read our full Helix Midnight mattress review or explore our picks for the best mattresses of 2024.
Nolah Signature – Best Mattress for Pressure Relief and Arthritis
Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress
Shoppers interested in a hybrid feel should find this Signature bed a perfect choice for their needs.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 4/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress
Shoppers interested in a hybrid feel should find this Signature bed a perfect choice for their needs.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 4/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress
Shoppers interested in a hybrid feel should find this Signature bed a perfect choice for their needs.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 4/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Why the Nolah Signature Earned Best Mattress for Pressure Relief and Arthritis
Memory foam is known as one of the best materials for pressure relief, regardless of your preferred sleeping position. The material provides gentle cradling that should help ease pains associated with arthritis. The Nolah Signature mattress features the brand’s premium AirFoam™, which allegedly improves on the pressure-relieving qualities of memory foam, in two layers.
The bed is rated 5/10 on the firmness scale, so it’s a good option for side sleepers (who usually struggle with pressure build-up the most). Some back sleepers may also find it comfortable, but stomach sleepers would likely prefer a firmer bed.
What’s the Nolah Signature Made Of?
The Nolah Signature has a total of five layers and is 12 inches thick. Its organic cotton cover is on top, providing a soft, naturally breathable, and moisture-wicking sleep surface.
Next are the foam layers of the mattress. First up is a 2.5-inch layer of Nolah’s proprietary AirFoam™, designed to dissipate heat while providing the iconic pressure relief that traditional memory foam is known for. Then comes a 1-inch layer of Active Response foam for added airflow while giving the bed some bounce. A second, firmer layer of Nolah AirFoam™ underneath balances support with extra cushioning.
Finally, the core of the mattress is made up of 7 inches of dense foam, contributing to the mattress’s longevity and solidity.
Our Take: “The Nolah Signature is a softer mattress, so it’s going to excel for side sleepers who want pressure relief in their shoulders and hips.” – Emma, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Cools well for a foam mattress – All-foam beds notoriously overheat, so we’re happy to report that the Nolah Signature remained at a comfortable temperature during testing. Emma described its AirFoam™ as “like memory foam [with] a much cooler feel.”
- Great motion isolation – Foam is one of the best materials to ensure movement stays relegated to one spot. Couples, especially those who are light sleepers, should rest undisturbed by each other’s movement.
Potential Drawbacks
- Lackluster edges – Our testers noticed that the Signature’s edge support leaves something to be desired, which tends to be the case for all-foam beds. Emma noticed that “there’s a bit more buckling when you sit on the edge.”
- Too soft for some sleepers – Heavier folks and those who sleep on their stomachs may find the Nolah Signature’s foam layers too soft for their needs.
Customer Reviews of the Nolah Signature
The Nolah Signature gets a 4.8 out of 5 stars on Nolah’s website. One potential drawback of the Nolah Signature mattress is its limited firmness options, but it excels in providing exceptional pressure relief and a cooling sleep experience.
Interested in more details? Check out our full Nolah Signature mattress review or check out our best mattresses for pressure relief.
WinkBed – Best Mattress for Heavy People with Arthritis
WinkBed Mattress
WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the WinkBed Earned Best Mattress for Heavy People with Arthritis
Heavier folks with arthritis are going to need a bed that supports them and doesn’t allow them to sink too far to feel uncomfortable. Enter the WinkBed: not only does this bed come in Soft, Medium, and Firm feels, but there’s even a dedicated option for plus-size sleepers, the WinkBed Plus.
The WinkBed has a sturdy construction that should stand the test of time and keep your weight evenly distributed. It may not have the traditional memory foam feel, but it has some softer foams on top to cushion sensitive joints.
What’s the WinkBed Made Of?
The WinkBed is handcrafted, so everything inside it is carefully designed. At 13.5 inches tall, it also looks pretty impressive. It comes in four firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer, as well as a Plus model for heavier sleepers.
The bed has a sustainable Tencel™ cover derived from Eucalyptus trees, making this an eco-friendly purchase as well.
The WinkBed’s Euro pillow top is composed of gel-infused foam for a cooler cushioning surface. Underneath are foam layers that give extra support to the sleeper while transitioning into the coil layer. These coils are individually wrapped and zoned for the proper give and lift beneath crucial areas of the body. The edges of the mattress are also reinforced to mitigate sagging.
Our Take: “People who like to feel like they are sleeping in the bed may feel more like they are floating on top of this mattress, but there should be plenty of pressure relief to make up for that.” – Sean, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Something for everyone – With four different models to choose from, including one that considers plus-sized folks, it’s pretty much guaranteed that you can customize your WinkBed mattress to fit your needs.
- Strong edges – Our tester Sean thought the edges of the mattress held up well. He claimed, “I can roll right up to the edge of the bed without losing that supportive feel.”
Potential Drawbacks
- Not super soft – The WinkBed is a hybrid bed, so you’ll be sacrificing some of the distinctive cradling of all-foam models. You’re going to feel more lift than sinkage.
- Motion carries – The coils in the WinkBed respond individually, so the motion transfer isn’t egregious, but we thought it was noticeable enough to disrupt a sensitive sleeper’s rest.
Customer Reviews of the WinkBed Mattress
On the WinkBeds site, the WinkBed earns a 4.8 out of 5 stars. One drawback of the WinkBed mattress is that it might be too expensive for budget-conscious shoppers, but overall it offers excellent durability and customizable firmness options.
Looking for more info? See our WinkBed mattress review or check out our best mattress for heavy people picks.
Bear Original – Best Mattress for Back Pain and Arthritis
Bear Original Mattress
This flagship model was thoughtfully crafted and assembled to be an attractive all-foam option for athletes who need better rest.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Original Mattress
This flagship model was thoughtfully crafted and assembled to be an attractive all-foam option for athletes who need better rest.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Original Mattress
This flagship model was thoughtfully crafted and assembled to be an attractive all-foam option for athletes who need better rest.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Bear Original Earned Best Mattress for Arthritis and Back Pain
Arthritis patients suffering from back pain should look for a supportive mattress that adapts to the body while offering maximum support for spinal alignment. The Bear Mattress Original is an all-foam bed with sturdy construction and mid-range firmness that should fit these criteria, hopefully mitigating or preventing any pain.
The bed’s responsive foam contours to your body’s shape, providing lift in critical areas like the lower back. However, the medium firmness allows for pressure relief so that you shouldn’t feel painful build-up in the shoulders, hips, or knees.
What’s the Bear Original Made Of?
The Bear Original has three layers and is 10 inches thick. The construction starts with a breathable Tencel™ cover — or, for an added fee, a Celliant® cover, which may reduce inflammation and help with tissue recovery following activity.
Underneath, the bed has cooling gel memory foam that helps disperse heat. Next is the responsive transition foam that adapts to your body and encourages proper spine alignment.
Last but not least is the high-density foam that acts as a base, providing structure and long-lasting durability.
Our Take: “I did really like this bed when I laid on my back, and when I laid on my stomach. It was firm enough for those two positions.” – Mark Mattei, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Firmer foams – The firmer foams give the Bear Original a medium-firm feel that works for a lot of positions. It especially suits stomach sleepers, who often sink too far into a foam mattress.
- Motion-isolating – The Bear Original is a beast when it comes to motion isolation. Stuart recommends it for couples, as “it’s not likely you’ll disturb one another’s sleep.”
Potential Drawbacks
- Thinner – The Bear Original is only 10 inches thick, which is on the thinner end compared to other mattresses on this list. It’s something to consider if you like to sleep high off the ground.
- Tough for lightweight side sleepers – The firm foams might feel a bit uncomfortable to side sleepers who are more petite. Heavier folks may get just the right balance of support and contouring that they need, though.
Customer Reviews of the Bear Mattress
According to Bear’s website, the Bear Original scores about 4.5 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate the Bear Original mattress for its excellent pressure relief but have reported that its edge support may be lacking, which could affect those who use the full mattress surface.
Looking for more info? See our Bear mattress review or check out our best mattresses for back pain options.
Birch Natural – Best Organic Mattress for Arthritis
Birch Natural Mattress
An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Birch Natural Mattress
An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Birch Natural Mattress
An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Birch Natural Earned Best Organic Mattress for Arthritis
The Birch Natural earns its name due to its environmentally conscious construction. It’s got organic wool and cotton comfort layers, but the support it brings is green too: the Birch Natural pairs natural Talalay latex foam with its individually wrapped coils, creating a firmer surface with a decent amount of bounce.
This feel should work for a variety of sleepers, but especially those who sleep on their back and stomach, as it should prevent them from sinking too deep even as the latex and wool layers take the pressure off their joints.
What’s the Birch Natural Made Of?
At 11 inches thick, the Birch Natural has a total of five layers, alongside an organic cotton cover.
First up are two layers of organic wool. The first is meant to act as a natural fire barrier, and the second cushions and insulates the mattress while maintaining temperature regulation.
Next up is the Talalay latex layer, which gives the bed its bouncy and supportive feel. Underneath this is the innerspring unit of nearly 1,000 individually wrapped coils. Then we round off the mattress with a base layer of thick wool.
Our Take: “The Birch Natural mattress should make a great bed for eco-conscious sleepers who want lots of bounce and a medium feel.” – Stuart Petty, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Eco- and allergy-friendly – With its GREENGUARD Gold and GOTS certifications, the Birch Natural is a big proponent of eco-friendly, organic, and non-toxic materials. The hypoallergenic properties of latex also work in its favor.
- Breathable – The organic cotton cover, Talalay latex layer, and coil unit all promote airflow to keep sleepers cool.
Potential Drawbacks
- Hard bargain – The Birch Natural is made with high-quality organic and natural materials, which unfortunately drives the price up. If you’re on a budget, be aware that a queen will run you more than $2,000 before sales and coupons.
- Not much motion isolation – The combination of latex and springs gives the Birch Natural lots of bounce, but also means partners are likely to feel each other’s movements from the other side of the bed.
Customer Reviews of the Birch Natural
According to Birch’s website, the Birch Natural scores a 4.6 out of 5 stars. While some users consider the Birch Natural mattress to be on the pricier side, it gains customer appreciation for its organic materials and sustainable, eco-friendly construction.
Considering this bed? Consult our full Birch Natural mattress review or check out our best organic mattresses picks.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Arthritis in the Hips
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is priced similarly to other bed-in-the-box options, it represents a fantastic value in the hybrid market.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is priced similarly to other bed-in-the-box options, it represents a fantastic value in the hybrid market.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is priced similarly to other bed-in-the-box options, it represents a fantastic value in the hybrid market.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Why the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Earned Best Mattress for Arthritis in the Hips
An affordably priced hybrid with the right mix of support and cushioning, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid should accommodate people with arthritis in their hips. It’s available in three firmness levels (Soft, Medium, and Firm), so you can choose just how plush you’d like your bed to feel. For people with arthritis, we recommend the Soft or Medium options.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid features two kinds of foam for a marriage of responsiveness and pressure relief. The responsive comfort foam’s elasticity helps it to adapt when your body changes position, whereas the VariFlex™ foam serves as a supportive layer before the bed’s coil unit.
What’s the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Made Of?
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is 11.5 inches thick and has five layers total. It’s available in Soft, Medium, and Firm models. We tested the Medium model, so that’s what we’ll be describing in this summary.
The construction begins with a 1-inch quilted top designed for breathability and comfort. Underneath is a 1.5-inch layer of responsive foam that adds bounce and adapts to cushion your body as you reposition.
Then, an inch of VariFlex™ foam transitions into the coil layer below while providing deep support.
Eight inches of individually wrapped Ascension® coils make up the coil layer, giving the bed its lift and springiness. They’re reinforced along the perimeter for stronger edge support. Finally, everything sits atop a 0.25-inch dense foam base.
Our Take: “We think this bed would be great for combination sleepers. Because it’s so responsive, adjusting positions is super easy. Plus, with the supportive yet comfortable feel, this bed is super versatile for all sleeping positions.” – Emma, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Sturdy edges – Our testers noticed this bed’s edge support right away. Emma noted, “I can lay right on the edge without feeling like I’m going to fall out.”
- Reasonably priced – This bed is one of the most affordable options out there if you’re looking for a high-quality hybrid. Before sales and coupons, which are frequent on Brooklyn Bedding’s site, it costs about $1,350.
Potential Drawbacks
- No bells or whistles – The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is simple, yes, but it gets the job done. Still, if you’re looking for added features like specialized cooling components, you’re going to have to upgrade.
- Not for foam purists – This bed has a distinct hybrid feel, so you’re not likely to feel super cradled by the foams on top. Instead, check out an all-foam mattress for that classic “hugging” feeling.
Customer Reviews of the Signature Hybrid
On Brooklyn Bedding’s website, the Brooklyn Signature has 4.7 out of 5 stars. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress receives praise from customers for its versatility with different firmness options, but some have mentioned that it may produce slight noise when bearing weight.
Need more details? Read our Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review.
Layla Hybrid – Best Cooling Mattress for Arthritis
Layla Hybrid Mattress
This versatile hybrid bed has two distinct firmness options that should appeal to a wide range of individuals.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Hybrid Mattress
This versatile hybrid bed has two distinct firmness options that should appeal to a wide range of individuals.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Hybrid Mattress
This versatile hybrid bed has two distinct firmness options that should appeal to a wide range of individuals.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Layla Hybrid Earned Best Cooling Mattress for Arthritis
A cool surface can feel soothing to sore joints, so a bed that offers both pressure relief and temperature regulation is ideal for sleepers with arthritis. The Layla Hybrid checks these boxes and gets bonus points for customizability: it’s a flippable bed with a soft side and a firmer sider.
Regardless of which side feels most comfortable to you, this bed should funnel away unwanted heat. Its breathable cover is followed by a layer of memory foam infused with copper—a material that assists in heat transfer. The support foam that follows has channels cut into it that encourage airflow, and the coil unit in the middle likewise keeps air circulating throughout the bed.
What’s the Layla Hybrid Made Of?
The Layla Hybrid is 13 inches tall and has two distinct sides: a Soft side and a Firm side.
The Soft side of the mattress starts out with a breathable, removable cover. Underneath is a layer of plush, copper-gel-infused memory foam for cooling comfort. Next is a layer of Max Airflow Support foam with deep channels cut into it for cooling and different pressure-relief zones tailored for unique support.
In the middle of the mattress is the coil unit with individually wrapped springs and a specially reinforced perimeter to promote strong edges.
The Firm side of the mattress is the same as the Soft side, but the copper-gel-infused memory foam is firmer for more lift. Top it off with a removable bottom cover and you have the Layla Hybrid.
Our Take: Aside from the Layla Hybrid’s coils providing airflow throughout the mattress, the foams used in its construction also lend some cooling capability. The first layer is infused with temperature-regulating copper, and the second has deep channels cut into the foam, earning it the “Max Airflow” part of its name.”
What We Liked
- Flippable – We rated the Layla Hybrid’s soft side as a 4 on our firmness scale, whereas the firmer side is around a 7. The difference is pronounced enough to create two very distinct feels.
- Solid edges – A double row of higher gauge coils around the Layla Hybrid’s perimeter make the edges of the mattress less susceptible to sagging when you lay or sit on them.
Potential Drawbacks
- Could be more firm – Customers said they felt the firmer side of the Layla Hybrid seemed more “medium” to them, so those looking to bounce between truly plush and truly firm may find the bed too soft to their liking.
- Not for light sleepers with partners – The Layla Hybrid has some motion-dampening abilities thanks to its foams and pocketed coils, but we still thought it exhibited enough motion transfer to disturb light sleepers.
Customer Reviews of the Layla Hybrid
According to the Layla site, the Layla Hybrid has an overall 4.5 out of 5 stars. While customers appreciate the Layla Hybrid mattress for its reversible design offering two firmness options, some have found it to be heavier and more challenging to rotate due to its substantial build.
Want to see more? Head over to our comprehensive Layla Hybrid review or discover our picks for the best cooling mattresses.
DreamCloud – Best Hybrid Mattress for Arthritis
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Luxurious hybrid at a great price with a lifetime warranty.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Luxurious hybrid at a great price with a lifetime warranty.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Luxurious hybrid at a great price with a lifetime warranty.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the DreamCloud Earned Best Hybrid Mattress for Arthritis
As a noticeably plush hybrid mattress, the DreamCloud has all the necessary ingredients for a reprieve from arthritis symptoms. Its silky cashmere cover has a top layer of foam quilted into it, followed by a layer of gel-infused memory foam that ups the pressure relief while keeping the environment cool.
The DreamCloud’s support features consist of a transitional foam layer and a spring unit with individually wrapped coils. These components offset the plushness of the comfort layers without disrupting the luxurious feel of the bed.
What’s the DreamCloud Made Of?
At 14 inches tall, the DreamCloud has seven total layers when you include its top and bottom covers. The top cover is a cashmere blend, denoting the bed’s luxury status right from the start.
Underneath are three CertiPUR-US® certified foam layers: a 1.5-inch plush layer for cushioning, a 1-inch gel layer for cooling pressure relief, and a 2-inch dynamic layer for a comfortable transition into the coil unit below.
This innerspring unit is 8.5 inches thick, made up of individually wrapped coils to keep air flowing through the mattress and to smother motion transfer. Thicker coils line the perimeter to hold up the edges.
All this sits on top of another CertiPUR-US® certified foam base layer, followed by the bottom cover, which prevents unwanted shifting.
My Take: I’ll say it time and time again: the DreamCloud is one of my all-time favorite picks when it comes to a mattress. It packs a lot of features into one mattress at a reasonable price, and it works for most folks—regardless of their size or preferred way to sleep.
What I Liked
- Great for a variety of positions – I’m a stomach sleeper myself, and the DreamCloud supports me in that position. But I also think that it’s a great fit for side sleepers due to its softer-than-average feel, and it promotes proper alignment for back sleepers.
- Reasonably priced luxury – The DreamCloud costs just under $1,500 for a queen, which is a steal when you consider all that you’re getting.
Potential Drawbacks
- Not very contouring – The DreamCloud has layers of foam on top of its coil unit, but has a more hybrid feel. You’re unlikely to feel “hugged” by this mattress the way you might in an all-foam one.
- Lacking edge support – Despite this bed having reinforced coils around the edges, I still found that the perimeter sagged a bit when I sat on it.
Customer Reviews of the DreamCloud mattress
The DreamCloud Original scores a solid 4.7 out of 5 stars among customers on its site. One potential downside of the DreamCloud Original mattress is its weight, making it challenging to move or rotate, but it offers excellent support and comfort for those who prefer a medium-firm feel.
Want more information? Read our in-depth DreamCloud mattress review or check out our best hybrid mattresses for more options.
Saatva Classic – Best Mattress for Seniors with Arthritis
Saatva Mattress
Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Saatva Classic Earned Best Mattress for Seniors with Arthritis
As we age, mobility becomes more limited, which is why having a mattress that’s easy to move around on is very helpful. The best beds for easy movement have buoyant materials like latex or coils. The Saatva Classic comes with two coil units, giving this mattress plenty of bounce to make repositioning a breeze.
Additionally, the edges of this mattress are encased in a dense foam, making the perimeter unlikely to buckle under your weight. This feature can especially benefit seniors who struggle with getting in and out of bed.
What’s the Saatva Classic Made Of?
The Saatva Classic comes in two heights (11.5 or 14.5 inches) and three firmnesses (Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, or Firm).
The first layer is the Euro pillow top, covered in organic cotton and quilted to provide crucial support to the lower back while maintaining comfy cushioning. Underneath is a dense foam lumbar “crown” that also targets the lower back.
Then come the two coil layers of the mattress. The first is zoned to give the right amount of resistance under different parts of the body, while the second provides durability to the overall mattress.
Within these layers is what Saatva calls the Lumbar Zone® Active Spinal Wire, which encourages healthy spinal alignment. Dense foam rails are situated along the edges of the mattress for solid support.
My Take: The Saatva Classic works hard to be a flexible option for all sleep positions and all body types. Tack on quality customer service and materials, and it should excel for just about anyone.
What I Liked
- Free white glove delivery – Saatva offers free white glove delivery with your purchase, which means a team of professionals will install your mattress for you. They can also remove your old mattress if you’d like. White glove delivery is especially beneficial to seniors with arthritis because they may have difficulty lifting a bulky mattress.
- Customizable – Saatva’s Classic model is available in three firmness levels: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. The different firmness options allow consumers to choose a mattress that fits their preferences and needs, resulting in more comfortable sleep.
Potential Drawbacks
- Motion travels – The bounciness of the Saatva Classic doesn’t lend itself well to mitigating motion transfer, so you’re likely to feel your partner’s movements across the bed.
- Return fees – If you like to try before you buy, be aware that returning a Saatva bed will cost you $99, even within the sleep trial window.
Customer Reviews of the Saatva Classic
The Saatva Classic rates 4.8 stars out of 5 on Saatva’s website. One negative aspect customers found with the Saatva Classic mattress is that it may feel too firm for some users, while a notable advantage is its high-quality materials, providing durability and support.
Need more info? Read our full Saatva Classic review or explore our top picks for the best mattresses for seniors.
Leesa Original – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Arthritis
Leesa Original Mattress
Leesa’s premium foam mattress works wonders for sleepers of all positions.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium: 5.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Leesa Original Mattress
Leesa’s premium foam mattress works wonders for sleepers of all positions.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium: 5.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Leesa Original Mattress
Leesa’s premium foam mattress works wonders for sleepers of all positions.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium: 5.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Leesa Original Earned Best Memory Foam Mattress for Arthritis
Memory foam mattresses can combat arthritis pain by compressing around and “hugging” sensitive joints. The Leesa Original mattress is therefore a good pick for sleepers with arthritis, as its all-foam design prioritizes pressure relief.
The first layer of the Leesa Original strives to keep the bed cool with its aerated design, thereby preventing too much heat buildup in the memory foam below, which is a common problem for dense foam beds. This makes the Leesa a great option for hot sleepers who still want the classic memory foam feel to cradle arthritic joints.
What’s the Leesa Original Made Of?
If you count its breathable knit cover, the all-foam Leesa Original has 4 total layers and 10 inches of height. Its first comfort layer is a responsive poly foam that gives the bed a delightful amount of bounce. This foam is unique to the Leesa brand, and aerated to allow for cooler temperatures.
Beneath it, you’ll find the memory foam recovery layer. Leesa places its memory foam layer second to preserve that springiness up top and to provide thorough pressure relief from deep within the bed. This layer should give you that luxurious, cradled feeling.
Finally, there’s a base of high-density foam at the bottom of the mattress that keeps the above layers stable and secure.
Our Take: “One of the things that really surprised me was how responsive this was for an all-foam bed.” – Emma, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Impressive bounce – Our reviewers loved that the Leesa mixed an unexpected amount of responsiveness with its pressure relief. One reviewer, Mark, was won over even though he’s “not typically a fan of an all-foam bed.”
- A brand that gives back – The Leesa brand donates a mattress to charity for every ten beds it sells. Its philanthropic efforts distinguish it from competitors, and made our reviewers feel good about recommending this bed. Per Emma, “I personally really like that this company is out there making a difference in the world by donating their mattresses to those who really need them.”
Potential Drawbacks
- Not very firm – The Leesa Original may not be the best bed for someone who prizes a firmer, very buoyant feel. When Emma laid on her stomach, a position that often requires lots of support around the hips, she said it felt “just not quite as nice as when I lay on my side.”
- Less edge support – In the same vein, this foam bed lacks the edge support that often comes with an innerspring unit. Emma noted that sleepers may feel more secure the nearer they are to the middle of the bed.
Customer Reviews of the Leesa Mattress
The Leesa Original rates 4.5 stars out of 5 on Leesa’s website. Customers often praise the Leesa Original mattress for its balanced support and pressure relief, though some have noted that it may not be the best option for those seeking an exceptionally firm mattress.
Interested in this bed? Learn more with our full Leesa mattress review or check out more mattress picks on our Best Memory Foam Mattresses.
What to Look for In A Mattress for Arthritis
Arthritic pain can be even more pronounced when you are sleeping on an uncomfortable mattress, and it can manifest more at night1 when you’re not moving your joints. Therefore, it’s especially important that those with this condition get a high-quality bed that meets their needs.
What Type of Mattress is Best for Arthritis?
There’s a lot of mattress types out there, but when it comes to arthritis, what matters most is your personal preference and needs. Overall, we say that beds with a lot of pressure relief and balanced support are best. This usually means hybrid beds can be your best bet, but every mattress is built differently.
Innerspring Mattresses
An innerspring mattress has steel coils inside of it as one of its primary layers, with a thin comfort layer above. They are characterized as being firmer and more bouncy. While they’re great for support, they don’t offer much pressure relief, which could be a drawback for those with achy joints.
Hybrid Mattresses
A hybrid mattress includes a layer of innerspring coils, as well as several top comfort layers. These comfort layers are usually made of latex or memory foam, making the mattress a combination of an innerspring and a foam mattress.
The result is a bed that feels both supportive and pressure-relieving. This makes hybrid beds an excellent choice for many sleepers with arthritis, especially since hybrid beds tend to be cooler and more breathable than completely foam mattresses, and heat can increase inflammation2.
Latex
Latex is a durable and buoyant material that also keeps cool. It usually provides superb contouring capabilities without making you feel trapped in the bed.
If you move a lot during the night because of arthritis discomfort, you should also find that latex’s quick-responding nature can help make it easier to reposition.
For More Info: Best Latex Mattress
Memory Foam Mattresses
This material tends to be very helpful for people with arthritis because it’s great at contouring the body and relieving pressure buildup.
Memory foam mattresses typically have memory foam on top and denser poly foam at the base, though this material can be found in hybrid models too.
What to Consider When Shopping for a Mattress for Arthritis
Different sleeping positions apply various amounts and points of pressure to the mattress, setting up characteristic specifications that pertain to each position. With this said, you should consider your preferred position as it could easily determine the choice of bed. It is also something that could have an overall impact on your condition.
Sleeping Position
Different sleeping positions require different needs from a mattress.
For side sleepers, who experience the most pressure buildup because their weight is concentrated in a smaller area, pressure-relieving softer beds are going to be more helpful.
Back sleepers typically do best with medium-firm beds that balance good back support with some pressure relief. Stomach sleepers, on the other hand, often benefit more from firmer beds that can keep their hips lifted for better back alignment.
Weight/Body Type of Sleepers
Different types of beds tend to work better or worse for different body types. For example, people who weigh over 230 pounds or so tend to do better on firmer, more supportive beds. Usually, this means including a layer of innerspring coils. Oftentimes arthritis and a heavier body weight3 go hand-in-hand (especially in the knees), so a hybrid mattress might be a great option since it is both supportive and pressure-relieving on the joints.
Lightweight sleepers don’t need as much support from their mattress, so they can choose between an all-foam, innerspring, hybrid, or latex bed. Lightweight sleepers with arthritis will do well with a bed on the softer and more contouring side.
Firmness
If you have arthritis, picking your bed’s firmness will be important in keeping your joints comfortable throughout the night. Choosing your bed’s firmness comes back to sleep position and body type.
If you’re a lightweight or side sleeper with arthritis, choosing a bed that is on the softer side will probably work well for you. Lightweight sleepers don’t tend to push down into the mattress so much, so softer beds are supportive enough and will feel good against the joints.
Heavier folks, back sleepers, and stomach sleepers will want a bed that is a bit firmer, to keep their spine from curving down into the mattress. Be sure, though, that the top layers are pressure-relieving and comfortable against your joints, even on a firmer mattress.
Cooling
Certain types of arthritis are caused by inflammation in the body4. Since heat can exacerbate inflammation, it is especially important to choose a mattress that won’t allow you to overheat at night.
Unfortunately, many memory foam mattresses tend to trap heat, whereas innerspring and latex beds are cooler. Memory foam tends to be the best for pressure relief, though, so a good compromise might be to find a memory foam mattress with cooling properties or find a hybrid mattress that has springs for breathability and memory foam on top for pressure relief.
Motion Isolation
Motion isolation measures how well a mattress isolates motion from one side of the bed to the other. This is especially important for sleepers who share a bed; when the bed isolates motion well, you’re less likely to feel your partner moving at night.
According to the Arthritis Foundation, about 70 percent5 of those with arthritis already have sleep disturbances, so limiting anything else that might disrupt your sleep will be helpful.
Pressure Relief
With the pain and stiffness that comes with arthritis, you will be very sensitive to pressure. With this in mind, if your mattress actually causes additional pressure points, this could easily aggravate the pain associated with arthritis.
You will need a sleeping surface designed to enhance your spinal alignment while simultaneously relieving pressure to promote less pain and a better night’s sleep.
Read more about mattresses for pressure relief here.
Edge Support
When a bed has good edge support, it means the edges won’t droop down when you sit or sleep near the edge of the bed. This is usually accomplished by a reinforced edge, which means stronger coils or foam along the perimeter, allowing you to comfortably stretch out and use the bed’s entire surface throughout the night. Good edge support can be especially helpful for couples sharing a bed.
Budget
Of course, none of these things matter if you can’t afford your ideal mattress. Foam and innerspring beds tend to run cheaper than latex and hybrid models.
We don’t recommend buying the very cheapest mattress or one that is used, especially if you are dealing with arthritis. Instead, investing in a quality mattress with a good warranty will serve you and your joints well in the long term.
Read more about the best affordable mattresses we recommend.
What Causes Arthritis?
The two most common types6 of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis7 (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. Some people call it “wear and tear” arthritis, and it occurs most frequently in the hands, hips, and knees. OA is caused by the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wearing down over time.
Rheumatoid arthritis8 is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks your body’s tissues. This can affect more than just joints; it can also impact the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels.
Both types, though, result in joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, which typically gets worse with age6.
Learn more about how to sleep with sacroiliac joint pain here.
How Can A Mattress Help with Arthritis?
According to the Arthritis Foundation, a majority of people with arthritis have trouble sleeping, whether it’s difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, waking up too early, or insomnia. The reason for this is obvious: arthritis pain makes it difficult to sleep. The less obvious factor, though, is that sleep loss seems to increase arthritis pain.5
This makes sleeping on a quality mattress all the more important. Here are some ways a mattress can help:
- Pressure relief – A foam mattress that contours the body can help eliminate pressure on the joints. With less pressure from the mattress pushing into your joints, the less additional pain you’ll feel in your joints. Explore our picks for the best mattresses for pressure relief.
- Good support – A mattress that is supportive enough for your body weight and preferred sleep position will help keep your spine in a healthy, neutral alignment. This will help any lower back pain and should help you sleep more soundly through the night.
- Fewer disturbances – If you share a bed, a mattress with excellent motion isolation should prevent you from waking up whenever your partner moves at night. The more sleep you get, the more time your body can spend in restorative deep sleep, which can actually help with the pain associated with arthritis9.
What Sleeping Position is Best for Arthritis?
Back Sleeping
If you are a back sleeper, your mattress needs to provide the necessary support to enhance your spinal alignment.
Usually, back sleepers should look at medium-firm mattresses that can deliver adequate back support while still providing enough cushioning for pressure points, and this is especially true if you’re experiencing arthritis.
Side Sleeping
For side sleeping, the most important thing to consider is how contouring the bed is. Side sleepers tend to experience more pressure on their shoulder and hip and therefore, need a mattress that’ll cradle these areas.
Softer surfaces are usually preferred here. However, there is a fine line to consider because if you go too soft, you would be creating more pressure than you alleviate.
Stomach Sleeping
If you’re a regular stomach sleeper, a sturdy, supportive mattress is key because it needs to keep your hips lifted to prevent the lower back from curving, which could otherwise cause pain in this area.
Typically, medium-firm or firm mattresses, depending on your body weight, are advised for stomach sleepers.
Combination Sleeping
Combination sleeping means you’re moving between two or more sleep positions throughout the night. This might mean you alternate between your back and side, stomach and side, or stomach and back. It makes sense that you might shift between positions if you have arthritis since it can be hard to get comfortable.
When looking for a mattress to accommodate a variety of positions, it’s best to go for one that is medium-firm, which should work better for more positions. You should also go for one that is more responsive. This means you won’t feel stuck ‘in’ the mattress and you’ll more easily be able to change positions.
Tell Us About Your Experience with Arthritis
How Can I Sleep With Arthritis?
Though it can be troublesome getting a good night’s sleep with arthritis, there are solutions outside of a new mattress that you can try. Here’s our suggestions.
Tips for Sleeping with Arthritis
- Use your pillows strategically – How you use pillows can be just as important as your choice of mattress. If you have hip or knee arthritis and like to sleep on your side, you may benefit from a pillow between your knees. If you have shoulder arthritis you may be most comfortable using a wedge pillow and sleeping on your back.
- Get active – The CDC recommends10 low-impact exercises such as walking, biking, cycling, swimming, and water activities for those with arthritis. These can help ease the pain of arthritis and also improve joint function, decrease inflammation, and boost your mood.
- Rule out obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – Being overweight increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis as well as a condition called OSA, which causes sleep to be interrupted throughout the night. It’s possible to have OSA and not know it. If you snore or wake up feeling tired even after a full night’s sleep, talk with your doctor or healthcare provider about undergoing a sleep study
- Lose weight – One way to help may be to start taking steps towards losing weight. Joint pain is further enhanced and made far more serious by excessive weight, especially in the lower back and knees3, so it is something to consider with insight from your doctor.
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen Size) | Review |
| Helix Midnight | Overall | $1,199 | Helix Midnight Mattress Review |
| Nolah Signature | Pressure Relief | $1,599 | Nolah Signature Mattress Review |
| WinkBed | Heavy People | $1,799 | WinkBed Mattress Review |
| Bear Original | Back Pain | $999 | Bear Original Mattress Review |
| Birch Natural | Organic | $1,799 | Birch Natural Mattress Review |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | The Hips | $1,249 | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Review |
| Layla Hybrid | Cooling | $1,699 | Layla Hybrid Mattress Review |
| DreamCloud | Hybrid | $1,332 | DreamCloud Mattress Review |
| Saatva Classic | Seniors | $1,995 | Saatva Classic Mattress Review |
| Leesa Original | Memory Foam | $1,199 | Leesa Original Mattress Review |
Best Mattress for Arthritis FAQs
Is a soft or firm mattress better for arthritis?
Most average to heavy-weight sleepers with arthritis should opt for a medium-firm to firm mattress. This should provide enough support that the spine remains straight through the night.
Plus, a soft mattress can cause extra pressure on the joints if a heavier person sinks too far into the mattress.
Lightweight sleepers with arthritis (those under 130 pounds) may want a softer mattress, which should be supportive enough for their weight but also provide some more cushioning.
Is memory foam better for arthritis?
Memory foam is a great choice for those with arthritis because it cradles the joints to provide exceptional pressure relief. If you’re somebody who weighs more than 230 pounds, a hybrid mattress with memory foam could be a great option, as it will give you the support of springs and the pressure relief of memory foam
What mattress firmness is best for joint pain?
In our opinion, a medium-firm mattress will be the best firmness for most body types with joint pain. This should also work best for most sleep positions.
What type of mattress is best for seniors with arthritis?
The best type of mattress for seniors with arthritis is a hybrid mattress. Coils provide structure and support, when a foam top provides the pressure relief many seniors require.
We recommend a hybrid like the Saatva Classic because it has the above qualities, as well as superior edge support; this makes it easier for seniors to get in and out of bed.
Can a too soft mattress make your joints hurt?
Though we champion pressure relief, which usually calls for a softer bed, it’s possible that a too-soft bed can have adverse effects. The right balance of support will ensure that your spine remains aligned, mitigating the exacerbation of pain in areas like the neck and lower back.
Julia Forbes
Lead Product Tester
About Author
Julia is the Lead Reviewer at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.
Stomach Sleeper
References:
- “Arthritis? Joint Symptoms You Can’t Ignore (and Ones You Can)”. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Webpage accessed June 28, 2024.
- “Injuries & Pain: When to Use Ice or Heat (Infographic)”. Unity Point Health. Webpage accessed May 12, 2013.
- Kulkarni, Kunal., et al. “Obesity and osteoarthritis”. National Library of Medicine. 2016.
- Poudel, Pooja., Goyal, Amandeep., Lappin, Sarah L. “Inflammatory Arthritis”. National Library of Medicine. 2022.
- “Osteoarthritis and Sleep”. Arthritis Foundation. Last modified March 15, 2022.
- “Arthritis”. Mayo Clinic. Last modified September 15, 2021.
- “Osteoarthritis”. Mayo Clinic. Last modified June 26, 2021.
- “Rheumatoid arthritis”. Mayo Clinic. Last modified January 25, 2024.
- Haack, Monika., et al. “Sleep deficiency and chronic pain: potential underlying mechanisms and clinical implications”. National Library of Medicine. 2020.
- “Exercise to Ease Arthritis Pain”. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last modified October 12, 2021.