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Cooling Mattresses

Best Cooling Mattresses for Hot Sleepers

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The short answer

The Bear Elite Hybrid is our top cooling mattress for most hot sleepers. It combines phase change material, gel-infused foam, and a breathable coil base to keep you cool all night. For a budget-friendly option, consider the Zinus Green Tea Cooling Gel mattress.

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How we picked

We compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.

At a glance

ModelBest forKey specScore
Bear Elite HybridOverall coolingPhase change + gel foam4.8
Purple PlusPressure relief + airflowGelFlex Grid4.7
Tempur-Pedic ProBreezeLuxury feelPure Cool+ phase change4.6
Zinus Green Tea Cooling GelBudgetGel memory foam4.4
Casper Wave HybridSpinal alignmentAirScape + perforated foam4.5
BEST
OVERALL
1
Bear Elite Hybrid
Bear Elite Hybrid
★★★★★ 4.8 / 5 Best overall
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The Bear Elite Hybrid uses a phase change cover that actively pulls heat away from your body, plus gel-infused foam and a coil base for airflow. It's a top choice for hot sleepers who want pressure relief and support.

Thickness 12 inchesFirmness Medium (5.5/10)Trial 120 nightsWarranty Lifetime
  • Excellent heat dissipation with phase change material
  • Good balance of support and cushioning
  • Motion isolation for couples
  • Premium price point
  • May be too firm for side sleepers under 130 lbs
Best for: Hot sleepers who want a medium-firm hybrid with advanced cooling.
Buy it if: Side and back sleepers who run hot and need pressure relief.
Skip it if: Stomach sleepers who prefer a firmer surface.
Alternative to consider: Consider the Saatva Classic if you prefer an innerspring feel.
2
Purple Plus
Purple Plus
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best for pressure relief
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The Purple Plus features the unique GelFlex Grid that promotes airflow and evenly distributes weight. It's incredibly breathable and offers a soft, pressure-relieving feel that many hot sleepers love.

Thickness 11 inchesFirmness Soft (4/10)Trial 100 nightsWarranty 10 years
  • Unique grid design for maximum airflow
  • Great for pressure point relief
  • Cool to the touch
  • Soft feel may not suit stomach sleepers
  • Can be pricey
Best for: Side sleepers who need pressure relief and tend to overheat.
Buy it if: People with shoulder or hip pain who sleep hot.
Skip it if: Those who prefer a firm, traditional mattress.
Alternative to consider: Try the Purple Hybrid if you want more support.
3
Tempur-Pedic ProBreeze
Tempur-Pedic ProBreeze
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best luxury
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Tempur-Pedic's ProBreeze uses Pure Cool+ phase change material to keep the surface cool. It offers the iconic Tempur feel with advanced cooling technology, making it a luxury choice for hot sleepers.

Thickness 11.5 inchesFirmness Medium (5/10)Trial 90 nightsWarranty 10 years
  • Superior cooling with phase change material
  • Excellent motion isolation
  • High-end materials and durability
  • Very expensive
  • Heavy and hard to move
Best for: Luxury seekers who want the best cooling and premium feel.
Buy it if: Couples and individuals who prioritize comfort and have a big budget.
Skip it if: Budget-conscious shoppers or those who prefer a bouncy feel.
Alternative to consider: The Tempur-Adapt is a more affordable option.
4
Zinus Green Tea Cooling Gel
Zinus Green Tea Cooling Gel
★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best budget
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This budget-friendly mattress is infused with cooling gel and green tea extract to help regulate temperature. It's a great entry-level option for hot sleepers on a tight budget.

Thickness 10 inchesFirmness Medium-firm (6/10)Trial 100 nightsWarranty 5 years
  • Affordable price
  • Cooling gel helps disperse heat
  • Good motion isolation
  • May sleep warmer than premium options
  • Less durable over time
Best for: Hot sleepers on a budget who want a basic cooling mattress.
Buy it if: Students, first-time buyers, or guest rooms.
Skip it if: Those who need advanced cooling or have chronic pain.
Alternative to consider: Consider the Linenspa Gel Memory Foam for an even lower price.
5
Casper Wave Hybrid
Casper Wave Hybrid
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best for spinal alignment
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The Casper Wave Hybrid combines AirScape technology with perforated foam and zoned support for cooling and spinal alignment. It's a well-rounded choice for hot sleepers who need extra back support.

Thickness 13 inchesFirmness Medium (5.5/10)Trial 100 nightsWarranty 10 years
  • Zoned support for lower back
  • Breathable AirScape cover
  • Great edge support
  • Pricey
  • May be too firm for some side sleepers
Best for: Back and combination sleepers who want cooling and spinal alignment.
Buy it if: People with lower back pain who sleep hot.
Skip it if: Stomach sleepers needing extra firmness.
Alternative to consider: The Casper Original is a more affordable option.

Are you tired of waking up in a puddle of sweat? You're not alone. Millions of people struggle with overheating at night, which disrupts sleep and leaves you groggy the next day. The solution often lies in choosing a cooling mattress that actively regulates temperature. In this guide, our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors for the top cooling mattresses from brands like Tempur-Pedic, Purple, Bear, and more. We'll break down the different cooling technologies, what to look for, and our top picks for every budget and sleep style.

How Cooling Mattresses Work

Cooling mattresses employ various technologies to keep you comfortable. Understanding these can help you make an informed choice.

  • Gel-infused foam: Gel beads are mixed into memory foam to draw heat away from your body. This is common in budget and mid-range mattresses.
  • Phase change materials (PCM): These materials absorb, store, and release heat to maintain a neutral temperature. They are often used in premium mattresses like the Tempur-Pedic ProBreeze.
  • Breathable covers: Covers made from cotton, bamboo, or special synthetic fibers allow air to circulate, preventing heat buildup.
  • Coil or latex layers: Innerspring coils and latex have open structures that promote airflow, making them naturally cooler than dense foam.

What to Consider When Buying a Cooling Mattress

Before you hit that buy button, think about these factors:

  • Sleep position: Side sleepers usually need softer mattresses for pressure relief, while stomach sleepers need firmer support.
  • Firmness preference: Cooling mattresses come in various firmness levels. Choose one that matches your comfort preference.
  • Material type: Memory foam offers contouring but may retain heat; hybrids with coils offer better airflow.
  • Budget: Prices vary widely. You can find decent cooling mattresses under $500, but premium models can cost over $2,000.
  • Trial period and warranty: Look for at least 100 nights trial and a 10-year warranty for peace of mind.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many shoppers make avoidable errors. Here's what to watch out for:

  • Ignoring the cover: A breathable cover is crucial. Some mattresses have cooling foam but a heat-trapping cover.
  • Assuming all foam is hot: Gel-infused and open-cell foams can be quite cool. Don't dismiss foam outright.
  • Not considering your partner: If you share a bed, motion isolation and edge support matter. A hybrid might be better.
  • Skipping the trial: Always take advantage of sleep trials. Your body needs time to adjust.

Our Top Picks Explained

We've selected five mattresses that excel in cooling and overall comfort. Each has been chosen based on customer reviews, materials, and value.

1. Bear Elite Hybrid - Best Overall

This mattress combines a phase change cover with gel-infused foam and a coil base. It offers excellent temperature regulation and a balanced feel. Customers rave about how cool it stays, even in summer.

2. Purple Plus - Best for Pressure Relief

The GelFlex Grid is a game-changer. It's hyper-elastic and promotes airflow, making it one of the coolest options. It's also fantastic for relieving pressure on shoulders and hips.

3. Tempur-Pedic ProBreeze - Best Luxury

If you want the iconic Tempur feel with advanced cooling, this is it. The Pure Cool+ phase change material keeps the surface cool, and the foam conforms perfectly to your body.

4. Zinus Green Tea Cooling Gel - Best Budget

For under $300, this mattress offers gel-infused memory foam that helps dissipate heat. It's a great entry point for hot sleepers on a tight budget.

5. Casper Wave Hybrid - Best for Spinal Alignment

With zoned support and AirScape technology, this hybrid keeps your spine aligned while promoting airflow. It's a solid choice for back pain sufferers.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right cooling mattress can transform your sleep. Consider your needs, budget, and preferences. Remember to check the current price on Amazon for the best deals. Happy sleeping!

Questions people ask

What makes a mattress cooling?

Cooling mattresses use technologies like gel-infused foam, phase change materials, breathable covers, and coil or latex layers to promote airflow and draw heat away from your body. These features help regulate your temperature throughout the night.

Are cooling mattresses worth it?

If you frequently wake up sweaty or feel too warm at night, a cooling mattress can significantly improve your sleep quality. They are especially beneficial for people who sleep hot due to metabolism, menopause, or living in warm climates.

How long does a cooling mattress last?

Most cooling mattresses have a lifespan of 7 to 10 years with proper care. Higher-quality materials like latex or high-density foam tend to last longer. Always check the warranty for coverage.

Do cooling mattresses feel cold to the touch?

Some cooling mattresses have a cool-to-the-touch cover, but not all. Phase change materials and gel-infused foam actively regulate temperature, but the initial feel depends on the cover fabric. Many feel neutral or slightly cool.

Can I use a mattress protector with a cooling mattress?

Yes, but choose a breathable protector that doesn't trap heat. Look for protectors made with cotton or bamboo, and avoid waterproof vinyl which can block airflow and reduce cooling effectiveness.

The bottom line

So which one?

For most hot sleepers, the Bear Elite Hybrid offers the best combination of cooling technology, comfort, and support. If you're on a budget, the Zinus Green Tea Cooling Gel is a solid pick. Always check the current price on Amazon before buying.

More in this topic

More in Cooling Mattresses

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