Memory Foam Mattresses
Best Cooling Memory Foam Mattresses for Side Sleepers
7 picks compared
6 min read
ProductPickly is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes our picks.
The short answerThe Nectar Premier Copper is our top pick for its cooling gel and pressure relief. The Zinus Green Tea and Lucid 10 Inch are budget-friendly options that still offer good support for side sleepers.
?How we pickedWe 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.
Nectar Premier Copper Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.8 / 5 Best overall cooling memory foam for side sleepers
This mattress features a Phase Change Copper cover that actively draws heat away. Its gel memory foam layer conforms closely to relieve pressure on hips and shoulders. Owners report sleeping cooler than with standard memory foam.
Thickness 12 inchesFirmness Medium-firm (6/10)Cooling Phase Change Copper cover, gel-infused foamTrial 365 nights
- Excellent pressure relief
- Effective cooling technology
- Long trial period
- Higher price point
- Some off-gassing initially
Best for: Best overall cooling memory foam for side sleepers
Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best budget cooling memory foam for side sleepers
This affordable mattress uses green tea-infused memory foam to help control odors. Its airflow-enhancing foam layers promote some heat dissipation. Side sleepers find it offers a balanced softness for pressure relief.
Thickness 10 inchesFirmness Medium (5/10)Cooling Airflow foam, green tea infusionWarranty 5 years
- Very affordable
- Good pressure relief for the price
- Odor control
- Less advanced cooling
- May be too soft for heavier sleepers
Best for: Best budget cooling memory foam for side sleepers
Lucid 10 Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best value cooling memory foam for side sleepers
Lucid's gel-infused memory foam absorbs and disperses body heat effectively. The ventilated foam layer adds breathability. It offers a plush feel that suits side sleepers without breaking the bank.
Thickness 10 inchesFirmness Plush (4/10)Cooling Gel-infused foam, ventilated layerWarranty 10 years
- Great price
- Gel infusion helps cooling
- Plush comfort
- May lack support for heavier individuals
- Some durability concerns
Best for: Best value cooling memory foam for side sleepers
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best premium cooling memory foam for side sleepers
Tempur-Pedic uses a proprietary TEMPUR material that conforms precisely to your body. The cover is designed to stay cool to the touch. Side sleepers get exceptional pressure relief, though it comes at a premium price.
Thickness 11 inchesFirmness Medium (5/10)Cooling Cool-to-touch cover, TEMPUR materialTrial 90 nights
- Superior pressure relief
- Premium materials
- Good motion isolation
- Expensive
- Can sleep warm for some
Best for: Best premium cooling memory foam for side sleepers
Sleep Innovations Shiloh 12 Inch Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.3 / 5 Best cooling memory foam for heavier side sleepers
This mattress has a thicker 12-inch profile with a supportive base foam layer. Its gel-infused top layer helps regulate temperature. Heavier side sleepers report adequate support and pressure relief.
Thickness 12 inchesFirmness Medium-firm (6/10)Cooling Gel-infused memory foamWarranty 10 years
- Extra thickness adds support
- Good for heavier weights
- Gel cooling
- May be too firm for petite side sleepers
- Edge support could be better
Best for: Best cooling memory foam for heavier side sleepers
Zinus Ultima Comfort Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best cooling memory foam for stomach and side sleepers
This mattress combines a plush memory foam top with a high-density base for support. Its airflow layer helps reduce heat buildup. It suits side sleepers who also occasionally sleep on their stomach.
Thickness 10 inchesFirmness Medium (5/10)Cooling Airflow layer, breathable coverWarranty 5 years
- Versatile for multiple positions
- Good balance of comfort and support
- Affordable
- Cooling is moderate
- May not be durable long-term
Best for: Best cooling memory foam for stomach and side sleepers
Olee Sleep Galaxy Hybrid Gel Infused Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.3 / 5 Best cooling memory foam for hot sleepers on a budget
This mattress uses gel-infused memory foam to actively pull heat away from the body. Its high-density foam base provides stability. It's a budget-friendly option for side sleepers who tend to overheat.
Thickness 10 inchesFirmness Medium (5/10)Cooling Gel-infused memory foamWarranty 10 years
- Effective gel cooling
- Budget price
- Good support
- Some reports of sagging
- Off-gassing odor
Best for: Best cooling memory foam for hot sleepers on a budget
Why Cooling Matters for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers often experience pressure points at the hip and shoulder. Memory foam conforms to these areas, but it can trap body heat. A cooling mattress helps maintain a comfortable sleep temperature. Look for gel infusions, phase change materials, or breathable covers.
Key Features to Consider
Firmness is crucial for side sleepers; medium to medium-firm is usually best. Check the thickness, as 10 to 12 inches often provide better support. Cooling technologies vary, from gel beads to copper infusions. Also, consider the trial period and warranty for peace of mind.
How We Chose These Mattresses
We compared specifications like cooling layers, firmness, and thickness. Owner feedback on heat retention and pressure relief was analyzed. We prioritized models with proven cooling features and positive side-sleeper reviews. Budget and value were also weighed.
Who Should Buy a Cooling Memory Foam Mattress
Hot sleepers who love the contouring feel of memory foam will benefit most. Side sleepers with hip or shoulder pain may find relief with a medium-firm option. If you sleep cool already, you might not need extra cooling features. Consider your weight and sleeping position when choosing firmness.
Questions people ask
What is the best cooling memory foam mattress for side sleepers?
The Nectar Premier Copper is a top choice due to its Phase Change Copper cover and gel-infused foam, which effectively dissipate heat.
How does gel-infused memory foam cool?
Gel microbeads are embedded in the foam to absorb and disperse body heat, reducing heat retention compared to traditional memory foam.
Is a medium-firm mattress good for side sleepers?
Yes, medium-firm (5-6/10) provides a balance of pressure relief and support, which is ideal for most side sleepers.
Can cooling memory foam mattresses really sleep cool?
They can, but effectiveness varies. Look for features like gel infusion, breathable covers, and airflow channels for best results.
What thickness should I choose for side sleeping?
10 to 12 inches is recommended for adequate support and durability. Thicker mattresses often have better edge support.
Are budget cooling memory foam mattresses worth it?
Yes, models like the Zinus Green Tea offer decent cooling and pressure relief at a lower price, though they may lack advanced features.
How long do memory foam mattresses last?
Expect 7 to 10 years with proper care. Higher-density foams tend to last longer.
What is the difference between gel-infused and copper-infused memory foam?
Gel infusions absorb heat, while copper infusions conduct heat away. Copper is often more effective but may cost more.
The bottom lineSo which one?
For most side sleepers, the Nectar Premier Copper offers the best combination of cooling and pressure relief. If budget is a concern, the Zinus Green Tea is a solid value pick. Consider your specific needs for firmness and cooling when deciding.
