Written by Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
Editor’s note: While there are several types of sleep apnea, we will focus on mattresses to help with obstructive sleep apnea specifically.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder that can cause your breathing to start and stop uncontrollably as you sleep. Of course, that sounds quite scary, but many people find obstructive sleep apnea manageable once they’ve settled on a treatment plan.
The best beds for obstructive sleep apnea foster easy breathing. They’re supportive enough to keep you elevated but also may be soft enough for comfortable side sleeping, which is recommended as the most optimal sleeping position for sleep apnea.
Additionally, a good mattress for sleep apnea should work in tandem with OSA treatments such as CPAP machines, other non-invasive positive pressure airway devices, and alternative FDA-approved treatments for OSA.
Here, we’ve chosen our top 8 mattresses for obstructive sleep apnea and sorted them based on preferred sleeping position and other needs.
What’s the Best Mattress for Sleep Apnea?
The Saatva Solaire earned Best Mattress for Sleep Apnea overall due to its adjustable firmness settings. This feature enables you to change the feel of the bed to achieve easier breathing at night—and if you pair the mattress with an adjustable bed frame, you can also elevate your upper body to help prevent airway blockages.
8 Best Mattresses for Sleep Apnea
- Saatva Solaire – Best Adjustable Base Bed for Sleep Apnea
- Helix Midnight Luxe – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Sleep Apnea
- Bear Star Hybrid– Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers with Sleep Apnea
- Nolah Original – Best Mattress for Lightweight People with Sleep Apnea
- WinkBed Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy People with Sleep Apnea
- Layla – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Sleep Apnea
- Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Sleep Apnea
- DreamCloud – Best Mattress for Couples with Sleep Apnea
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 obstructive sleep apnea should look for in a mattress.
“When picking a mattress for OSA, focus on firmness for support, contouring for comfort, breathability to keep cool, and compatibility with adjustable bases for finding the right sleeping angle if elevated.”
Compare the Best Beds for Sleep Apnea
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| Saatva Solaire Mattress | Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress | Bear Star Hybrid Mattress | Nolah Original 10″ Mattress | WinkBed Plus Mattress | Layla Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress | DreamCloud Original Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Medium: 5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 |
| Material | Other | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Foam | Foam | Hybrid |
| Cooling |
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| Warranty | Lifetime warranty | 15-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Shipping | Free white glove delivery | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping |
| Trial Period | 365 nights | 100 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 365 nights |
| Best For | Couples, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers | Joint Pain, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Couples | Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain | Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors |
How We Chose the Best Beds for Sleep Apnea
As the Lead Product Tester at Sleep Advisor, I’ve evaluated a seemingly endless parade of mattresses by putting them through in-person tests. I work with a testing team so that we can see how each bed performs for different body types and sleeping positions.
To decide on the best beds for sleep apnea, we narrowed our choices to mattresses that met specific criteria (in addition to our regular mattress metrics) related to this condition.
We also had our quadruple board-certified Chief Medical Advisor, Dr. Raj Dasgupta, review this guide for its medical content.
What We Look for in a Bed for Sleep Apnea
A quality mattress should have a pleasing ratio of support to softness and be made of durable materials. But a mattress that can help with sleep apnea symptoms needs to check a few more boxes:
Spine-Aligning Support
When you have sleep apnea, you’ll want a mattress that’s evenly supportive in all its areas for proper spinal alignment. When your body and spine are well-aligned, you’re more likely to breathe unimpeded during sleep.
On the other hand, if the bed is too plush or its support system is uneven, you may sink into it in ways that could exacerbate airway blockages.
Enough Pressure Relief for Side-Sleeping
A simple change in sleeping position can benefits for many people with obstructive sleep apnea. Switching from back-sleeping (also known as a supine position) to side-sleeping (also known as a lateral position) has been proven to reduce occurrences of abnormal breathing during sleep.1
More than any other sleeping position, side sleeping requires a pressure-relieving surface to cushion the hips and shoulders. Otherwise, pressure can accumulate around these sensitive joints and lead to an uncomfortable sleeping experience.
Compatibility with an Adjustable Frame
Placing your mattress on an adjustable frame means you can elevate your head and legs to create a variety of cozy postures. Elevating your upper body in particular can help guard against upper airway obstruction (and snoring) during the night—research1 has shown that lying at an incline can be helpful for those with OSA.
Not all mattresses are compatible with adjustable beds, however. If this approach appeals to you, you’ll want to make sure the mattress you order can be paired with this type of base.
Hypoallergenic Materials
Sometimes allergies2 can worsen snoring and obstructive sleep apnea symptoms. Hypoallergenic mattresses will be more resistant to irritants like molds and dust mites, and could therefore improve snoring and mouth breathing.
8 Mattresses for Sleep Apnea
Saatva Solaire – Best Adjustable Base Bed for Sleep Apnea
Saatva Solaire Mattress
Zoned latex foam in the Saatva Solaire allows sleepers up to 50 customizations, making it easy to adjust the firmness so that it fits most sleeping positions.
15% off orders of $1k+
Material
Other
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Solaire Mattress
Zoned latex foam in the Saatva Solaire allows sleepers up to 50 customizations, making it easy to adjust the firmness so that it fits most sleeping positions.
Material
Other
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Solaire Mattress
Zoned latex foam in the Saatva Solaire allows sleepers up to 50 customizations, making it easy to adjust the firmness so that it fits most sleeping positions.
Material
Other
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$$
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.
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 lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Saatva Solaire Earned Best Adjustable Bed for Sleep Apnea
An adjustable base is a helpful way to alleviate OSA symptoms because it can elevate the head to keep the airways open for easier breathing. But if you plan to use an adjustable base, you’ll need the right mattress to go with it. Saatva’s Solaire model features a unique design, most notably its 6-inch thick air chamber made from vulcanized latex.
The air chamber allows the sleeper to adjust the bed’s firmness through air pressure. Users can alter the pressure in this layer in units between 1 and 50 to reach their preferred firmness. This customized design means the Solaire is a viable mattress for all kinds of sleepers.
What’s the Saatva Solaire Made Of?
The Saatva Solaire is about 13 inches thick and has the following layers:
- Layer 1 – Euro Top (3 inches). This comfy Euro top has an organic cotton cover, specialized quilting in the center for lumbar support, and an antimicrobial treatment for a healthy sleep surface.
- Layer 2 – Natural Latex (1 inch). A latex layer that’s zoned in five unique areas to both lift and cushion the lower back.
- Layer 3 – Gel-Infused Memory Foam (2 inches). A pressure-relieving layer for cooling and contouring.
- Layer 4 – Moisture Barrier. Built-in moisture barriers protect the bed from unwanted bacteria growth.
- Layer 5 – Vulcanized Air Chambers. These can be adjusted to 50 different firmness settings for your desired feel.
- Layer 6 – Power Edge Enclosure. The above chambers and the air inflator are contained within a sturdy enclosure that hides the equipment from view.
Our Take: “Here’s the wonderful thing about this bed: Whatever sleeping position or firmness you like, you can adjust the mattress to achieve it … I liked playing around with the remotes to find what works for me.” – Michael, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Couples should love it – The Solaire is a dynamite mattress for couples, especially if you spring for an Upper-Flex or split model. These versions of the bed have a separate air chamber for each side, enabling partners to adjust their respective sides to their liking. Our reviewers also noted that the Solaire isolates motion very well.
- Free white glove delivery – Saatva delivers their mattresses to your door and sets them up—for free! They’ll even take your old mattress away too.
Potential Drawbacks
- Expensive – Saatva is considered a luxury brand and this bed could be called a “smart bed.” Both of these factors drive up the price of this mattress, which will run you about $3,800 for a queen.
- Set up time – The first time you use the Solaire, you’ll have to wait up to 48 hours for it to expand completely. For the next week, you may experience some fluctuations in pressure as the bed learns to maintain certain comfort levels, but these can be easily adjusted with the remote.
Customer Reviews of the Saatva Solaire
On Saatva’s website, the reviews for the Saatva Solaire are overwhelmingly positive, coming in at 4.8 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate the Saatva Solaire mattress for its adjustable firmness settings but may find its price point to be higher than expected.
Interested in more details? Read our full Saatva Solaire mattress review or explore our top picks for the best mattresses for adjustable beds.
Helix Midnight Luxe – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Sleep Apnea
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
With the Ultra-Cool phase-changing cover and gel-infused foam, the Helix Midnight Luxe is an excellent choice for hot sleepers who also need pressure relief and zoned support.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
15-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
With the Ultra-Cool phase-changing cover and gel-infused foam, the Helix Midnight Luxe is an excellent choice for hot sleepers who also need pressure relief and zoned support.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
15-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
With the Ultra-Cool phase-changing cover and gel-infused foam, the Helix Midnight Luxe is an excellent choice for hot sleepers who also need pressure relief and zoned support.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Helix Midnight Luxe Earned Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Sleep Apnea
If you have OSA, sleeping on your side is considered one of the best positions because it can help with symptoms like snoring. Lying on your side, however, means you’re more susceptible to pressure buildup around your joints. The Midnight Luxe, a luxurious upgrade to Helix’s Midnight model, features plush comfort layers that should ease pressure points so you can rest comfortably in this position.
The Midnight Luxe has a cozy pillow top made with Tencel™ so that you not only get an initial cushion as you lie down, but you’ll also feel some cooling effects from the breathable material. Below the pillow top is a layer of Memory Plush Foam, which is great for side sleepers because it cradles the sleeper’s body so well, melting away pressure in the process.
What’s the Helix Midnight Luxe Made Of?
The Helix Midnight Luxe is 13.5 inches tall and has six primary layers.
- Layer 1 – Cooling Pillow Top. The top of the mattress cushions and cools. Choose between two covers: a breathable Tencel™ cover or a temperature-regulating GlacioTex™ cover (for an extra fee).
- Layer 2 – Helix Responsive Foam. A springy, resilient foam that bounces back to respond to your movements.
- Layer 3 – Copper Gel Memory Foam. Copper-infused memory foam has a slower sink for more pressure relief.
- Layer 4 – Memory Plus Foam. A dense memory foam that gives support to the above layers while dampening the feel of the innerspring unit below.
- Layer 5 – Spring Unit. Up to 1,000 individually wrapped coils make up the coil layer, zoned to lift the lower back and hips while relieving pressure buildup in the shoulders. They’re reinforced along the edges for a solid perimeter.
- Layer 6 – DuraDense Foam. A dense foam base layer.
Our Take: “After trying out several of these beds over the years, I really appreciate the versatility of them. I particularly love how this one, the Midnight, feels when I’m sleeping on my side. The pillow top adds just a bit more cushioning than the standard Midnight does, and the zoned support also seems to help with my overall alignment.” – Emma Mattei, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Soft and supportive – The Helix Midnight Luxe’s hybrid construction has a mix of plush foams and springy coils for a medium-firm sleep surface that effortlessly balances cushioning and lift.
- Cooling capability – Emma noted that the Midnight Luxe “won’t heat up in the way that an all-foam bed would.” Coils, gel-infused foam, and a breathable cover all work to keep air flowing through the mattress.
Potential Drawbacks
- Hard to move – This bed has plenty of layers and an innerspring unit that gives it some weight. It doesn’t have handles, either, so moving it by yourself could be difficult.
- Too soft for heavy folks – Sleepers who weigh more than 200 pounds may find the plusher top of the Helix Midnight Luxe too soft to support them. Stomach sleepers, too, may need something firmer to lift their hips.
Customer Reviews of the Helix Midnight Luxe
On Helix’s website, the mattress scores 4.5 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate the Helix Midnight Luxe mattress for its customized support but have reported that it may not be the best option for those who prefer an exceptionally soft sleep surface.
Want to read more? See our complete Helix Midnight Luxe mattress review or discover the best mattresses for side sleepers.
Bear Star Hybrid – Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers with Sleep Apnea
Bear Star Hybrid Mattress
The Bear Hybrid is an appealing product because it should cater to a wide variety of sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Star Hybrid Mattress
The Bear Hybrid is an appealing product because it should cater to a wide variety of sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Star Hybrid Mattress
The Bear Hybrid is an appealing product because it should cater to a wide variety of sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
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.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Bear Star Hybrid Earned Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers with Sleep Apnea
Combination sleepers who struggle with OSA may find it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position. Sleep apnea can also cause you to toss and turn, so it’s important to have a comfortable mattress. These folks should appreciate how the Bear Star Hybrid adapts regardless of the way you sleep.
The Bear Star Hybrid is rated 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale, which should be a middle ground suitable for combination sleepers. This mid-range firmness should also fit a wide variety of sleepers as it supports the body and provides proper spine alignment.
What’s the Bear Star Hybrid Made Of?
The Bear Star Hybrid is 13 inches high and has a total of five layers.
- Layer 1 – Cover. A Celliant® cover reportedly helps to rejuvenate tired muscles by transforming excess body heat into infrared energy.
- Layer 2 – Serene Gel Foam. A cooling, pressure-relieving layer of gel-infused foam.
- Layer 3 – Responsive Comfort Foam. A cushiony yet responsive foam that accommodates a range of different sleeping positions.
- Layer 4 – Coils. Individually wrapped coils support the foam layers and give the bed some bounce. Stronger coils line the perimeter of the bed for enhanced edge support.
- Layer 5 – High-Density Support Foam. A strong foam base.
Our Take: “The responsive comfort foam offers exceptional pressure relief and support, adapting to all sleeping positions.” – Stuart Petty, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Feels cool – The Bear Star Hybrid should please plenty of hot sleepers, thanks to its cooling cover, gel-infused foam, and individually wrapped coils allowing for temperature regulation and airflow.
- Enhanced recovery – Celliant® is a unique feature of the Bear Star Hybrid, a fiber designed with athletes or active sleepers in mind. It purportedly works by absorbing body heat and converting it into infrared energy, which then encourages circulation and tissue oxygenation. This may help rejuvenate strained muscles so you wake up feeling refreshed.
Potential Drawbacks
- Firm for some – The Bear Star Hybrid does have cushy foams on top, but it’s still firmer than one might expect. If you’re on the lighter side or prefer to sleep on your side, you might not get the right amount of sink to feel comfortable.
- Lackluster edges – We thought the edges weren’t anything special when it came to supporting weight, something to consider if you sleep or sit near the perimeter of the mattress.
Customer Reviews of the Bear Star Hybrid
Coming in at approximately 4.5 out of 5 stars on Bear’s site, a potential downside customers noted of the Bear Star Hybrid mattress is that some users may find it too firm, but it is praised for its strong support and cooling properties, promoting a comfortable sleep environment.
Want more details? Read our full Bear Star Hybrid mattress review or browse our picks for the best mattresses for combination sleepers.
Nolah Original – Best Mattress for Lightweight People with Sleep Apnea
Nolah Original 10″ Mattress
Nolah delivers ultimate pressure-relieving features in this all-foam mattress specifically designed for side sleepers.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium: 5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Original 10″ Mattress
Nolah delivers ultimate pressure-relieving features in this all-foam mattress specifically designed for side sleepers.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium: 5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Original 10″ Mattress
Nolah delivers ultimate pressure-relieving features in this all-foam mattress specifically designed for side sleepers.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium: 5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Why the Nolah Original Earned Best Mattress for Lightweight People with Sleep Apnea
Lightweight sleepers typically enjoy plush beds so that they don’t feel as though they’re sleeping on a rock. For someone with OSA, finding a mattress that delivers optimal comfort for their body frame should help them get better rest.
The Nolah Original has a medium plush feel, which should be a good match for light sleepers. This all-foam mattress features proprietary Nolah AirFoam™, an exclusive material made to sleep cooler than regular memory foam while still delivering plush comfort.
What’s the Nolah Original Made Of?
The Nolah Original is 10 inches tall but packs a lot into its four layers.
- Layer 1 – Tencel™ Cover. A soft and breathable white cover.
- Layer 2 – AirFoam™ (2 inches). This proprietary foam provides pressure relief in a more cooling and durable construction than traditional memory foam.
- Layer 3 – High-Resilience Foam (1 inch). The bed’s third layer is an inch of latex-like foam that helps ease the sleeper into the dense foam base below.
- Layer 4 – High-Density Foam Core (7 inches). High-density poly foam designed to support the individual’s weight and provide the mattress with structure.
Our Take: “[Nolah’s] foams really take the strain off my hips and my shoulders. I can also feel myself transitioning nicely into the stabilized base layer.” – Stuart, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Cool for foam – Nolah’s proprietary cooling foam is ideal if you tend to overheat at night. The cooling capabilities provide a comfortable environment for uninterrupted rest.
- Boasts some bounce – These foams are also fairly responsive. Stuart claimed that “Repositioning should be fairly simple, as your body doesn’t leave an impression in the foams.”
Potential Drawbacks
- Can feel too soft – The Nolah Original is pretty dang soft, which can be a boon for sleepers seeking pressure relief and cradling, but a drawback for those who prefer to sleep on their stomach or weigh over 200 pounds. It may not be supportive enough to prevent these folks from sinking in too far.
- Low profile – This mattress is only 10 inches thick, something to consider if you like a bed with a lot of loft.
Customer Reviews of the Nolah mattress
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.
Want to read more? See our complete Nolah Original mattress review.
WinkBed Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy People with Sleep Apnea
WinkBed Plus Mattress
WinkBed’s quality design and support make the Plus an exceptional option for heavier folks.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Plus Mattress
WinkBed’s quality design and support make the Plus an exceptional option for heavier folks.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Plus Mattress
WinkBed’s quality design and support make the Plus an exceptional option for heavier folks.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
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 heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the WinkBed Plus Earned Best Mattress for Heavy People with Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is a common condition among heavier individuals, and mattresses that aren’t built to accommodate their weight may develop sagging spots that can exacerbate the condition. The WinkBed Plus, a reimagining of WinkBeds’ flagship mattress, was designed to meet the specific needs of people who weigh over 300 pounds.
Our tester Sean, who self-describes as a heavyweight sleeper, recommends this bed wholeheartedly: “WinkBed Plus is an excellent choice for heavier sleepers looking for support and pressure relief.” Both of these are important for plus-size sleepers looking to combat OSA symptoms by sleeping on their sides.
What’s the WinkBed Plus Made Of?
The WinkBed Plus stands 13.5 inches tall.
- Tencel™ Cover – The mattress is topped off with a Tencel™ cover that’s moisture-wicking and soft to the touch.
- High-Density Anti-Sag Foam – The cushioning Euro pillow top is bolstered by a dense foam layer underneath that resists sagging.
- Latex Support Layer. This latex layer has seven unique zones for customized responsiveness in different areas.
- Coil Unit. the individually wrapped coils are also zoned for specialized support and reinforced for a higher weight capacity. The coils around the perimeter of the mattress are also strengthened for better edge support.
Our Take: “The WinkBed Plus uses a hybrid construction that should help heavier sleepers feel well supported while also relieving muscle tension and pressure… Overall, this is an excellent mattress, especially if you’re a heavier sleeper like myself. ” – Sean, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- For all sleep positions – This mattress was designed to deliver a versatile Medium-Firm feel for heavier sleepers. This versatility allows the bed to feel comfortable on your side, back, or stomach, depending on your personal preference. The top layers of gel foam and latex over a zoned support system should help your spine remain well-aligned.
- Durable – The WinkBeds company prides itself on its handcrafted designs and tested durability. In the company’s research, their beds only lost around 1% of loft during a simulation of 1 year of consistent use.
Potential Drawbacks
- Too firm for some – As this bed was specifically designed for heavier people, if you share the bed with someone who’s more petite, they may find the bed too firm for their comfort.
- Pricier – The WinkBed Plus costs more than its predecessor because of its sturdier construction. It’s not the best choice if you’re on a budget.
Customer Reviews of the WinkBed Plus
With a score of 4.8 out of 5 stars the WinkBed Plus is a hit with sleepers seeking a firm and supportive mattress. Customers appreciate the WinkBed Plus mattress for its exceptional support for heavier individuals, but some have mentioned that it may be too firm for those seeking a softer sleep surface.
Interested in learning more? Head over to our WinkBed Plus mattress review or discover our top picks for the best mattresses for heavy people.
Layla – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Sleep Apnea
Layla Mattress
Soft on one side, firm on the other: this memory bed gives you a choice of feels.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Mattress
Soft on one side, firm on the other: this memory bed gives you a choice of feels.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Mattress
Soft on one side, firm on the other: this memory bed gives you a choice of feels.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
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.
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 lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Layla Earned Best Memory Foam Mattress for Sleep Apnea
If you have OSA and like the idea of memory foam, but aren’t sure how much cradling you prefer, you might want a dual-sided mattress like the Layla. You can try both sides of the bed to compare how soundly you sleep and determine which firmness level best accommodates your obstructive sleep apnea. The softer side will offer a deeper hug with excellent pressure relief, while the firmer side provides a more buoyant feel. Both sides are designed to keep you well-supported.
The Layla mattress also helps with temperature control by incorporating an infusion of copper, which has excellent heat conduction and antimicrobial properties that may help you breathe (and sleep) easier.
What’s the Layla Memory Foam Made Of?
At just 10.5 inches thick, the Layla fits a lot into its six layers–including cooling covers on the soft and firm sides.
- Layer 1 – Cover (Soft Side). A soft, light gray cover.
- Layer 2 – Copper Gel Memory Foam. A plush layer of copper-gel memory foam balances pressure relief and cooling.
- Layer 3 – Max Airflow Support Foam. A layer of Max Airflow foam supports the body with specialized zones and transitions into the motion-isolating core layer of foam.
- Layer 4 – Support Core Foam. Neatly sandwiched in the middle of the mattress, the core diminishes motion transfer and ups the bed’s durability.
- Layer 5 – Copper Gel Memory Foam. On the firm side, there’s only one layer of firmer, cooling copper-gel memory foam between the cover and the core of the mattress for a stiffer, more supportive feel.
- Layer 6 – Cover (Firm Side). A darker gray cover.
Our Take: “The Layla is infused with copper, which makes the foam in the mattress even more responsive. So it really feels like the mattress is adapting to your body.” – Stuart, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- No motion transfer – Stuart found the motion isolation on this bed to be top-notch. He says that you can “jump up and down, dance a little, feel free to wiggle all you want” without worrying about disturbing any co-sleepers.
- Flippable – If you can’t choose between a soft or a firm mattress, the Layla is a great option. Easily flip between the two based on your preference for the month, week, or night!
Potential Drawbacks
- No edge support – There’s no special reinforcement around the Layla’s edges, so they’re likely to buckle or sag when you sit or lay near them.
- Not for stomach sleepers – Even the firm side of this mattress doesn’t feel bracing enough to support folks who prefer to sleep on their stomachs. They may find their hips sink too far into the foam layers.
Customer Reviews of the Layla
On the Layla site, the Layla has an overall 4.5 out of 5 stars. One potential drawback of the Layla Original mattress is that its flippable design might not be as convenient for customers who prefer a fixed firmness, but it provides versatile comfort options with both soft and firm sides to choose from.
Looking for more info? See our in-depth Layla mattress review or our picks for the best memory foam mattress.
Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Sleep Apnea
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Those in the market for a Firm bed now have a dual-sided choice to see what they require to sleep well-supported and comfortable in Plank Firm, a new product from Brooklyn Bedding.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Those in the market for a Firm bed now have a dual-sided choice to see what they require to sleep well-supported and comfortable in Plank Firm, a new product from Brooklyn Bedding.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Those in the market for a Firm bed now have a dual-sided choice to see what they require to sleep well-supported and comfortable in Plank Firm, a new product from Brooklyn Bedding.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Why the Plank Firm Earned Best Firm Mattress for Sleep Apnea
Stomach sleeping is often recommended for those with OSA to help open up their airways. Whether you already lie on your stomach or are transitioning to this sleep style, a firmer mattress will be your best bet since most stomach sleepers enjoy harder beds that keep their hips and midsection level.
The Plank Firm has a flippable design with two different firmness levels on each side, one Firm and the other Extra-Firm. This gives you the convenience of seeing which side you like best. The Plank is also an all-foam model, so you can expect good motion isolation from this mattress.
What’s the Plank Firm Made Of?
The Plank is 10.25 inches thick with four total layers in its flippable construction. It has an extra-firm side and a traditional firm side.
- Layer 1 – Quilted Top, Extra-Firm Side (0.75 inches). The extra-firm side only has a 0.75-inch quilted top with continuous stitching to allow absolutely no loft—a truly firm sleep surface.
- Layer 2 – High-Density Support Foam (6 inches). The core of the mattress between these two sides is a durable and dense foam layer.
- Layer 3 – TitanFlex™ Comfort Foam (2 inches). This layer of foam allows for a modicum of responsive support.
- Layer 4 – Quilted Top, Firm Side (1.5 inches). The traditional firm side has a 0.75-inch quilted top that allows for some loft.
My Take: In my opinion, the Plank Firm is one of the hardest mattresses available. Plus, you get two different feels to pick from to find your perfect side.
What I Liked
- Supports heavier sleepers – A super-firm feel is great for heavyweight folks, since it should give the right support without allowing too much sink. The Plank should accommodate heavy sleepers in all positions, even stomach sleeping.
- Great for spinal alignment – The American Chiropractic Association endorsed the Plank Firm for its ability to evenly distribute weight and promote healthy spinal alignment.
Potential Drawbacks
- Cooling costs extra – The Plank Firm is an all-foam bed and thus prone to overheating, so hot sleepers will have to pay for temperature regulation. For an extra fee at checkout, you can add a cooling panel top onto both sides of the bed.
- Thin profile – The Plank firm is under 10 inches tall, making it the shortest and thinnest mattress on this list. Without a platform frame, this bed will feel pretty low to the ground.
Customer Reviews of the Plank Firm
On Plank’s website, the Plank Firm gets 4.8 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate the Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm mattress for its exceptional firmness, but some have found it to be too rigid for their comfort preferences.
Curious about this bed? See our Plank Firm mattress review or browse our picks for the best firm mattresses.
DreamCloud – Best Mattress for Couples with Sleep Apnea
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 Mattress for Couples with Sleep Apnea
The DreamCloud has a true medium firmness combined with memory foam that should complement anyone seeking pressure relief—especially those who sleep on their sides to reduce OSA symptoms.
When it comes to sharing the bed, DreamCloud is furbished with gel memory foam, poly foams, and individually wrapped coils to help with motion isolation. Good motion isolation is helpful for couples because it reduces the chances of one partner disturbing the other with movements.
What’s the DreamCloud Made Of?
The DreamCloud is a beefy bed at 14 inches thick with seven layers (including a top and bottom cover). All of its foams are also CertiPUR-US® certified.
- Layer 1 – Cashmere Blend Cover. The cover is made from a breathable and luxurious cashmere blend.
- Layer 2 – Plush Foam (1.5 inches). A softer foam for initial cushioning.
- Layer 3 – Gel-Infused Memory Foam (1 inch). A cooling, pressure-relieving layer.
- Layer 4 – Dynamic Foam (2 inches). A transitional layer promotes alignment while mitigating the feel of the springs beneath.
- Layer 5 – Spring Unit (8.5 inches). The innerspring unit is 8.5 inches thick and made up of individually wrapped coils. The perimeter is reinforced with thicker coils to bolster the edges of the bed.
- Layer 6 – Base Foam (1 inch). All of the bed’s layers sit atop an inch-thick base layer of foam.
- Layer 7 – Bottom Cover. Finally, the lower cover keeps the bed from sliding around and is equipped with four handles for easy transportation.
My Take: The DreamCloud is one of my all-time favorites, and it definitely fits the bill for couples. This bed excels at absorbing the feeling of motion and responding quickly to movement on the top of the bed.
What I Liked
- Supports a variety of positions – When I tested this bed, I tried out every position—back, side, stomach—and I felt supported in every single one. The DreamCloud is truly a jack-of-all-trades in that regard.
- Responsive lift – Not only is this bed bouncy, it’s got crazy support. You’re going to feel boosted on top of this mattress with no chance of unwanted sinkage.
Potential Drawbacks
- Not for foam fans – The aforementioned lifted feeling is not the same as the swaddling comfort of memory foam. This bed has a hybrid feel overall, so check out an all-foam bed if you want to feel “hugged” by your mattress.
- So-so edge support – Despite having reinforcement along the perimeter of the bed, I didn’t think the DreamCloud’s edges were super supportive when sitting on them. Size up to a king if you’re a couple who likes to use the full surface area of the mattress.
Customer Reviews of the DreamCloud
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 to read more? See our complete DreamCloud mattress review or check out our best mattresses for couples.
What Causes Sleep Apnea?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, sleep apnea3 is caused by either an obstructed airway (obstructive sleep apnea) or a failure of the brain to send signals to your breathing muscles (central sleep apnea.) Most people have obstructive sleep apnea, and a small minority of people have central sleep apnea.
With any form of sleep apnea, the inability to breathe while you sleep causes your body’s blood oxygen levels to drop. This decrease in oxygen alerts your body to wake up suddenly, often multiple times throughout the night, in order to resume breathing normally and replenish your body’s oxygen levels3.
Sleep apnea and the disruptions it causes can lead to complications4 such as daytime fatigue, high blood pressure or heart problems, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, liver problems, and more.
Tips for Better Sleeping with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Use CPAP Therapy
CPAP stands for “Continuous Positive Airway Pressure.” This treatment involves the patient wearing a mask that delivers the ideal amount of air pressure to open the collapsed upper airway in OSA patients.
To determine this setting, the patient has to have a CPAP titration study that is done during an overnight sleep study in a lab, or more commonly, the healthcare provider orders an APAP (auto-titrating positive airway pressure) machine that will find the optimal airway pressure.
Learn More: Best CPAP Machines and Best CPAP Masks
Get an Adjustable Base for Your Bed
While it’s generally recommended to sleep on your side or stomach if you have breathing difficulties, some people strongly prefer lying on their backs. An adjustable bed frame helps make this position doable.
Elevating your head and upper body allows your air pathways to remain open throughout the night. If you don’t have an adjustable bed frame and you’re resistant to investing in one, a wedge pillow propped underneath your shoulders can also help.
Make Some Lifestyle Changes
The Mayo Clinic5 recommends making some lifestyle changes to improve obstructive sleep apnea, including exercising regularly, drinking less (if you drink), losing weight, quitting smoking, and adjusting your sleep position (if you’re a back sleeper).
More Info: Exercises for Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Find a Reliable Allergy Medication
Since allergies can make obstructive sleep apnea worse, it might be helpful to use decongestants or allergy medications to help reduce OSA symptoms. Only do this if you have allergies and they’re contributing to your snoring and OSA symptoms.
Avoid Taking Sedatives at Night
Sedatives like sleeping pills, opioid-based pain meds, and certain anti-anxiety drugs like benzodiazepines can increase the likelihood6 of both central and obstructive sleep apnea.
Explore alternative sleep aids: Best Melatonin Supplements for Sleep
How to Choose the Best Bed for Sleep Apnea
If you’re experiencing OSA on a nightly basis, a new mattress can fit nicely into a treatment regimen prescribed by your doctor. Here are the most important factors to consider when shopping.
Firmness
Side and stomach sleeping are considered better positions for those with OSA.5 However, side sleeping requires a mattress that offers ample contouring to relieve pressure points at the hips and shoulders, while stomach sleepers need a supportive mattress to keep their hips lifted for lower back support.
We typically recommend a soft to medium-firm mattress for people with obstructive sleep apnea. The bed should be firm enough to prevent you from sinking too deeply into the layers but soft enough to keep you comfortable.For those who’d prefer to try out stomach sleeping to help with their OSA, firmer beds are the way to go—they prevent the hips from dipping too much and creating lower back issues.
Need help? Check out our complete mattress firmness scale.
Soft vs. Firm Mattresses for Sleep Apnea
Dr. Raj Dasgupta explains how the ideal mattress firmness for sleep apnea is ultimately whatever can provide you with enough overall support. “A mattress can make sleep apnea worse if it’s too soft and causes your body to sink in, possibly blocking your airways. But if your mattress is firm enough to keep you well-supported, it can help lessen symptoms by reducing the risk of your airway collapsing during sleep.”
Type of Mattress
- Innerspring Mattresses – You can think of innerspring mattresses as the most “classic” mattress type. The bulk of this mattress consists of steel innerspring coils, with a softer comfort layer on top.
- Hybrid Mattresses – Hybrid mattresses combine an innerspring base or core with multiple upper foam layers, including a memory foam or latex surface.
- Memory Foam Mattresses – Memory foam mattresses are popular because of their superior pressure-relieving abilities. When you lie down, especially if you’re on your side, the weight of your shoulders and hips sink more deeply into the bed than your other body parts.
- Latex Mattresses – Latex mattresses are made entirely from latex or combined with memory foam, coils, and other materials. In most cases, they’re responsive, breathable, and eco-friendly, making them popular among eco-conscious shoppers.
Sleeping Position
Your sleeping position can greatly impact your experience of obstructive sleep apnea.
The three primary sleeping positions are side-, back-, and stomach-sleeping. According to experts, sleeping on your back is the worst posture7 for obstructive sleep apnea (and snoring) because it can allow your upper airways to collapse more easily during sleep.
Conversely, side- or stomach-sleeping is better for those with OSA because it helps the upper airways remain more open.7
Your Body Type
Weight and body type can play a major role in obstructive sleep apnea. People with larger bodies (and a “central distribution of body fat8” in particular) seem to be at greater risk for the condition.
It’s important to remember that being termed overweight or obese is not always a prerequisite for sleep apnea. Anything that could narrow the upper airway, such as large tonsils or changes in your hormone levels, can increase your risk for obstructive sleep apnea. In fact, a “high” BMI is no longer considered a precise enough predictor of sleep apnea, as it doesn’t account for how body fat is distributed.
However, because of a strong association between abdominal fat and OSA, weight loss is often recommended as part of a patient’s initial management of the condition.
Cooling
If you tend to get hot during the night or have night sweats, you’ll want a bed that cools you off. Cooling is also important for those with OSA since research points to an association9 between night sweats and hot flashes and obstructive sleep apnea, specifically in middle-aged women.
Some beds come with advanced cooling technology, including cooling gel or perforated memory foam. Other beds are naturally cool, like innerspring beds, which allow for more airflow, or beds made with latex foam, a more breathable material than synthetic foams.
If you choose from memory foam beds, be aware that they tend to run hotter, and you may want one with added cooling features.
Interested in especially chill beds? See the best cooling mattresses.
Motion Isolation
If your sleep apnea often jerks you awake and you share the bed with somebody, you’ll want to keep motion isolation in mind.
Motion isolation refers to how well the bed can stop motion from transferring across its surface. In a bed with good motion isolation, you shouldn’t be too disturbed by your partner’s movements at night.
Foam mattresses tend to cancel out motion most effectively, whereas innerspring beds aren’t as motion-isolating.
Pressure Relief
A pressure-relieving mattress will contour your body, gently cradling your joints or the “sharp” parts that need more cushion. Pressure relief is important in a bed for sleep apnea, as it can increase a bed’s comfort level for side-sleeping in particular.
Memory foam beds tend to have excellent pressure relief but may not be the most supportive mattresses for heavier sleepers. Thankfully, many hybrids have pressure-relieving upper layers above their durable coils.
Edge Support
When we talk about edge support, we’re talking about how well the edges of the mattress can support your weight, whether sitting on the edge of the bed or stretching out and using the mattress’s full surface.
Many beds these days come with increased edge support – extra coils or foam around the perimeter of the bed that keep the edges from buckling too much.
If you’re a heavier sleeper, or you often sit or lie on the edge of your mattress to put on your CPAP mask, sound edge support is a must.
Budget
We try to recommend mattresses for various budgets, but it’s generally best not to buy the cheapest models. These tend to be less durable, less supportive, and less transparent about their materials.
If you live with obstructive sleep apnea, you’ll want a quality mattress that helps you get the best possible sleep. Expect to spend a bit more than $1,000 on sizes larger than a Full, and more than that if you get a modern hybrid or latex bed.
Trying to spend less? Read more about the best budget mattresses.
What’s the Best Sleeping Position for Sleep Apnea?
Most medical professionals recommend sleeping on your side to help curb sleep apnea symptoms. Sleeping on your back, on the other hand, can exacerbate them.
Read More: How to Properly Sleep On Your Side and Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers
If you can’t sleep on your side, read on to learn more about how other sleeping positions can interact with this condition.
Back Sleeping with Sleep Apnea – While back sleeping has some health benefits, even people without OSA can wake up from breathing problems or their own snoring when they lie in that position.
Stomach Sleeping with Sleep Apnea – In general, stomach sleeping is not the best posture for your neck or spine. That said, experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine note that stomach sleeping is also an option for obstructive sleep apnea in order to keep the airways more open7.
Combination Sleeping with Sleep Apnea – Combination sleeping means that you’re changing between two or more positions throughout the night. This could be side and back sleeping, side and stomach sleeping, or any other combination of side, stomach, and back sleeping.
For obstructive sleep apnea, some combination of side and stomach sleeping would be ideal. Be sure to avoid sleeping on your back as much as possible during the night.
Final Breakdown: Best Mattresses for Sleep Apnea
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen Size) | Review |
| Saatva Solaire | Adjustable Base | $4,495 | Saatva Solaire Mattress Review |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | Side Sleepers | $2,374 | Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress Review |
| Bear Star Hybrid | Combination Sleepers | $1,998 | Bear Star Hybrid Mattress Review |
| Nolah Original | Light Sleepers | $1,749 | Nolah Original Mattress Review |
| WinkBeds Plus | Heavy People | $1,999 | Winkbed Plus Mattress Review |
| Layla Memory Foam | Memory Foam | $1,099 | Layla Mattress Review |
| Plank Firm | Firm | $1,332 | Plank Firm Mattress Review |
| DreamCloud | Couples | $1,332 | DreamCloud Mattress Review |
Best Bed for Sleep Apnea FAQs
Is an adjustable bed good for sleep apnea?
An adjustable mattress can definitely be a good option for people with sleep apnea because they can elevate their head to help with breathing.1 However, you can also use a wedge pillow to get the same effect if you don’t want to invest in an adjustable base.
How high should I raise my bed at night for sleep apnea?
In most cases, it’s recommended you try an angle of 30 to 45 degrees10. However, this can vary for many people depending on how severe their sleep apnea is, what they find comfortable, and how a certain angle helps reduce sleep apnea episodes.
What is the difference between sleep apnea and snoring?
Although snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea11, it doesn’t always mean you have sleep apnea if you snore. If you sleep with a partner, they will probably be able to tell if you have obstructed breathing or if you’re just a noisy sleeper.
Do I need a CPAP if I snore?
You don’t need a CPAP device if you snore but don’t have sleep apnea. CPAP machines are typically only prescribed to people with sleep apnea, so unless snoring is a symptom, your doctor may prescribe another treatment, like oral appliance therapy12.
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:
- Fabrício de Barros Souza, Fábio José., et al. “The influence of head-of-bed elevation in patients with obstructive sleep apnea”. Sleep Breath. 2017.
- Chirakalwasan, Naricha., Ruxrungtham, Kiat. “The linkage of allergic rhinitis and obstructive sleep apnea”. National Library of Medicine. 2014.
- “Sleep Apnea”. Cleveland Clinic. Last modified November 15, 2022.
- “Sleep Apnea”. Mayo Clinic. Last modified April 6, 2023.
- “Obstructive sleep apnea”. Mayo Clinic. Last modified July 27, 2021.
- Zagaria PharmD, Mary Ann E. “Central Sleep Apnea: Potential Impact of Benzodiazepines, Opioids, and CYP3A4 Inhibitors”. Geriatrics. 2015.
- “Choosing the Best Sleep Position”. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Webpage accessed May 9, 2023.
- Deng, Hai., et al. “Association of adiposity with risk of obstructive sleep apnea: a population-based study”. BMC Public Health. September 2023.
- Reller, Kelly. “Research finds hot flashes, night sweats connected to obstructive sleep apnea risk in middle-aged women”. Mayo Clinic. 2017.
- “Your Guide to Elevating the Head of the Bed to Help with Sleep Apnea”. The Kingsley Clinic. Webpage accessed April 17, 2024.
- “4 Signs You Might Have Sleep Apnea”. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Webpage accessed April 17, 2024.
- “How To Stop Snoring”. Cleveland Clinic. August 14, 2022.