Cooling Mattresses
Cool Sleep Under: Top Picks
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 Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam, Lucid 10 Inch Gel Memory Foam, and Linenspa 8 Inch Hybrid are top picks. They balance cooling features with budget-friendly prices.
?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.
Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best Overall
This 12-inch mattress uses gel-infused memory foam to draw heat away. A breathable cover adds airflow. Owners report a medium firm feel that suits most sleepers.
Thickness 12 inchesMaterial Gel memory foamFirmness MediumTrial 100 nights
- Effective gel cooling
- Good motion isolation
- Affordable price
- Some off-gassing initially
Lucid 10 Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best Value
This 10-inch mattress features gel-infused foam for temperature regulation. The ventilated design promotes airflow. It comes in multiple firmness options.
Thickness 10 inchesMaterial Gel memory foamFirmness Plush, medium, firmWarranty 10 years
- Multiple firmness choices
- Breathable gel layer
- Low price
- May sleep warm for hot sleepers
Linenspa 8 Inch Hybrid Mattress
★★★★★ 4.3 / 5 Best Budget
This hybrid combines foam layers with innerspring coils. The coils promote airflow and reduce heat buildup. It is a low-profile option for bunk beds or tight spaces.
Thickness 8 inchesMaterial Foam and coilsFirmness Medium firmWeight 40 pounds
- Coils allow airflow
- Very affordable
- Easy to move
- Thin comfort layer
- Less pressure relief
Tuft & Needle Adaptive Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best for Hot Sleepers
Tuft & Needle uses a proprietary heat-conductive foam. It pulls heat away from the body. The cover is soft and breathable.
Thickness 10 inchesMaterial Adaptive foamFirmness Medium firmTrial 100 nights
- Heat-conductive foam
- Excellent support
- CertiPUR-US certified
Best for: Best for Hot Sleepers
Casper Element Mattress
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best for Side Sleepers
This mattress has breathable foam layers that contour to the body. It offers pressure relief for hips and shoulders. The cover is soft and airy.
Thickness 10 inchesMaterial Breathable foamFirmness MediumTrial 100 nights
- Good for side sleepers
- Breathable cover
- Strong edge support
- Not as cool as gel options
Best for: Best for Side Sleepers
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best for Back Pain
Nectar uses gel memory foam to keep sleepers cool. The quilted cover adds breathability. It provides firm support for spinal alignment.
Thickness 11 inchesMaterial Gel memory foamFirmness Medium firmTrial 365 nights
- Excellent support
- Long trial period
- Cooling gel layer
Best for: Best for Back Pain
Zinus Green Tea Cooling Mattress
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best for Eco-Conscious
This mattress infuses green tea extract into the foam. It helps neutralize odors and keeps the surface fresh. The cover is soft and breathable.
Thickness 12 inchesMaterial Memory foam with green teaFirmness MediumWarranty 5 years
- Natural odor control
- Breathable cover
- Good value
- Not as cool as gel models
Best for: Best for Eco-Conscious
We compared specs like gel infusions, coil counts, and cover breathability. Owner feedback on heat retention guided our picks.
Cooling Technologies Explained
Cooling mattresses use different methods. Gel-infused foam absorbs and dissipates heat. Phase change materials actively pull warmth away. Coils allow air to circulate through the mattress. Breathable covers like cotton or polyester blends wick moisture. Each method has trade-offs in cost and effectiveness.
How to Choose the Right Firmness
Firmness affects comfort and support. Side sleepers often prefer a medium feel. Back sleepers need medium firm to maintain alignment. Stomach sleepers usually need firmer support. Your weight also matters. Heavier sleepers may need a firmer mattress to avoid sinking.
Budget Considerations
Under you have many options. Foam mattresses are typically cheaper. Hybrids with coils cost a bit more. Look for sales and discounts. A good mattress can last 7 to 10 years. Investing a bit more may save money in the long run.
Trial Periods and Warranties
Many brands offer trial periods. You can test the mattress at home. Common trials are 100 nights. Some go up to a year. Warranties cover defects and sagging. Read the fine print. Return policies vary, so check before buying.
Questions people ask
What makes a mattress sleep cool?
Cooling mattresses use breathable materials and heat-dissipating technologies. Gel infusions, copper, and phase change materials help. Airflow through coils or perforations also reduces heat.
Is a gel memory foam mattress worth it?
Yes, for hot sleepers. Gel helps regulate temperature. It can be more effective than plain memory foam. But individual results vary.
Can I get a good cooling mattress under?
Absolutely. Many quality options exist. Look for gel infusions and breathable covers. You don't need to spend more.
How long does a cooling mattress last?
Most last 7 to 10 years. Higher density foams tend to last longer. Check the warranty for coverage.
What is the best firmness for back pain?
Medium firm is often recommended. It provides support without being too hard. Consult a doctor for specific advice.
Do hybrid mattresses sleep cooler than foam?
Often yes. Coils allow more airflow. But foam layers can still trap heat. Look for breathable foam layers.
What is the difference between a cooling mattress and a regular one?
Cooling mattresses have special materials. They are designed to reduce heat retention. Regular mattresses may sleep warmer.
Can I use a mattress topper to make my bed cooler?
Yes. A cooling topper can help. It adds a breathable layer. But it won't fix a mattress that sleeps hot.
Are cooling mattresses more expensive?
Not necessarily. Many affordable options exist. You can find good ones under
What should I look for in a cooling mattress?
Check for gel or phase change materials. Look for breathable covers. Consider coil construction for airflow.
The bottom lineSo which one?
The Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam is our top pick. It offers effective cooling and comfort at a great price. For hot sleepers, the Tuft & Needle is a strong alternative.