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Using a platform bed can offer many benefits.
But you will be able to enjoy them if you also have a proper mattress.
Don’t worry, though, as it’s not so hard to find. In fact, we have top 4 suggestions of great mattresses for platform beds. Plus, we will share a buyer’s guide that should help you make the right choice. So, if you’re interested, let’s cut right to the chase!
A Quick Preview
 | Best Overall – Editor’s Choice AS3 by Amerisleep | Read more about this mattress |
 | Best for Side Sleepers WinkBeds | Read more about this mattress |
 | Best for Heavy People Brooklyn Signature Hybrid | Read more about this mattress |
 | Best for Hot Sleepers GhostBed Luxe | Read more about this mattress |
Our Reviews of the 4 Best Mattresses for Platform Beds
Best Memory Foam Option — Amerisleep AS3
Highlights:
- This mattress’s surface cradles the body pressure points, providing a cozy feeling without sacrificing support.
- Its reinforced edges provide extra sleeping space and ease movement on the bed.
- The breathable cover and mattress construction promote airflow, ensuring that you enjoy a thermoregulated, sweat-free sleep.
My best overall pick of the best mattress for platform beds is the AS3 by Amerisleep, which has a core layer of dense memory foam combined with pocket coils. This means it can work well with your platform bed frame to provide solid support for your body weight. In addition, the zoned foam layer helps cradle the body’s pressure points which can help relax better.
The top layer of the AS3 by Amerisleep was a comfortable balance between mattress give and bounce. The bounce allowed me to move freely out of bed. I also liked that the thermoregulation was on point, as I experienced zero discomfort from a temperature spike.
The AS3 is notable for its body weight support, which complements the support from a platform bed frame, and together can help the body align into a comfortable sleeping posture. My tests also confirmed satisfactory thermoregulation, which means you will unlikely sleep hot on this mattress.
Read our full Amerisleep AS3 mattress review for more information.
Best Platform Bed Mattress for Side Sleepers — WinkBeds
Highlights
- four firmness options to accommodate more types of sleepers;
- lifetime warranty for your peace of mind;
- lumbar layer for improved back support.
A user’s sleeping style plays a major factor in choosing a mattress’ firmness level. Stomach sleepers require a firm surface, while side sleepers require intensive cushioning, and back sleepers need a bit of both. Therefore, it has the right to be called one of the best mattresses for platform beds that can make any user happy (including larger folks who require more support, as there’s an extra-firm Plus option available).
This model also uses extra components in its construction for improved comfort. I mean the lumbar support layer. This is a rare addition (only the Saatva can compete with such a unique construction), which is meant to provide better support for the spine and thus, aid its neutral alignment during sleep. And it really works, as I went to bed with a stiff back and woke up pressure- and pain-free in the morning.
The Winkbed provided me with adequate lumbar support while slept on my side and back. It combines wrapped coils with a solid poly foam core to deliver maximal upthrust when placed on a platform bed frame. In addition, the gel-infused helped provide a soothing feel while I tested this mattress.
Read our full Winkbed mattress review for more information.
Best Platform Bed Mattress for Heavy People — Brooklyn Signature Hybrid
Highlights:
- individually wrapped coils for targeted support and to minimize motion transfer;
- three comfort options to meet more users’ needs;
- high-caliber coils around the edges for enhanced support.
Hybrid mattresses are known for having low motion transference, sturdy base layers, and reinforced edges. These features are great for heavy persons as it affords them with uniform support to create a firm sleep surface. This would also come in handy if your platform bed has a low-profile design. Lower beds are harder to get out of, so you might need to press into the mattress edges to push yourself up. And the Brooklyn Bedding will give you a nice boost thanks to its reliable edges.
It’s also worth mentioning that this model uses patented TitanFlex foam in comfort layers. It feels cradling and hugging like regular foam but doesn’t restrict movement. It reminded me of latex a bit, without its springiness that sometimes annoys certain users. It’s a great option for those sleepers who want enough of a hug without feeling stuck.
According to my test, the Brooklyn Signature hybrid provides good body support, and it delivers considerable upthrust better suited to heavy individuals and back sleepers. Furthermore, I liked the reinforcements of the mattress’s edges, ensuring you get as much sleeping space as possible.
Read our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid review for more information.
Best for Hot Sleepers using Platform Bed — GhostBed Luxe
Highlights
- medium-plush feel for gentle cradling and effective pressure relief;
- Ghost Ice layer with thermo-sensitivity technology for cooler sleep;
- additional cooling fiber for increased airflow.
Using a platform bed does not guarantee a sleep free of night sweat, especially for sleepers who tend to run hot. However, with the GhostBed Luxe, the mattress exudes a surface that is always cool to the touch, even when body heat should dictate otherwise. However, this doesn’t mean that the GhostBed is squishy soft. This model is supportive enough and managed to keep my spine aligned (and tension-free) all through the night.
Now, since this mattress can offer generous cradling and contouring, you might think that the GhostBed sleeps hot. However, I’ve got good news: thanks to its cooling components, this mattress maintains a temperature-neutral environment during the night. The manufacturer uses cooling fiber, gel-infused foam, a proprietary thermo-sensitive layer, and a resilient transition foam (to prevent the quicksand feel) in order to help you feel comfortably cool during sleep.
Our Methodology - Why I Picked These Mattresses
I always look for a mattress that will sit nicely on a platform bed, complementing a platform bed's support while still being soft enough for a comfortable sleep.
In my review methodology, I test mattresses on a platform, lying down in different sleeping positions like my back, side, and stomach to get the best feel for how the platform frame will support the mattress and how well it will support you. Another test I do that gauges this reasonably well is measuring the compressions of the mattress on my upper and lower body parts. My personal hands-on experience, plus my knowledge in the field, all help me choose the best mattress for a platform bed, and at the end of the article, I’ll give a few more methodology tips that will help you choose the right mattress for your home.
What Mattress Types Are the Best for Platform Beds?
Platform beds do not require a box spring. They typically have a solid frame and either slats or a flat sheet of wood that serves as the foundation for the mattresses. Whatever the case is, here’s the good news: any mattress type would work with a platform bed. But there are certain peculiarities to each of them, so let’s take a closer look at the mattresses that don’t need a box spring and what we are dealing with. Once you learn more about different mattress types, it should be much easier for you to pick what you need exactly:
- Foam. Now, foam mattresses are known for their adaptive structure. When sleeping on a foam mattress, your body will be cradled by this material, which often aids even weight distribution and tension relief. Because foam is so adaptive, it is often used among the best mattresses for adjustable beds, which can offer more comfort options to users. Here’s what you should consider, though: if your platform bed uses slats, you need to make sure that the spacing between them is suited for a foam mattress (read the manufacturer’s recommendations). You should also know that foam can trap body heat. So if you are a hot sleeper, consider models that have an open-cell structure or use gel infusion for a cooling effect.
- Latex. Latex mattresses are significantly more expensive in most cases, but they are also among the most durable ones. Latex is also cradling and can help with pressure relief. However, unlike foam, latex does not offer as much of a hug and as a result, won’t make you feel restricted. This material is naturally resistant to bacteria and makes a great option for people who suffer from environmental allergies (unless you are allergic to latex, of course).
- Innerspring. Spring mattresses are widely available, affordable, and allow for unobstructed airflow during the night (which contributes to thermoregulation). However, innerspring mattresses aren’t that great when it comes to pressure relief. They simply don’t use that much padding to offer a decent hug for one’s pressure points. Additionally, spring mattresses usually have a mediocre lifespan, which means you will have to get a new mattress sooner than with other types.
- Hybrid. As the name suggests, hybrid mattresses use a combination of different materials. Users often describe them as “the best of both worlds”, as these mattresses usually have a very balanced feel. They use wrapped coils for support and foam or latex (sometimes both) for the comfort layers. These mattresses are typically thick and work great for platform beds that tend to be lower. Hybrid mattresses also have sturdy edges and thus, can offer more legroom. Strong edges may also be helpful if your bed is low to the ground and you need to give yourself a little push to get up.
Read more: Top Hybrid Mattresses
Things to Look for In a Good Mattress for a Platform Bed
Since there are plenty of mattresses that could be used with a platform bed, you might be feeling confused at this point. How do you pick just one? And how can you avoid choosing something that won’t actually work for you?
Well, there are certain aspects that might help make the shopping process easier for you. They include:
- Temperature regulation. A cool mattress is always a better option than a regular one (since we sleep better when feeling comfortably cool) (1). It might also come in handy if your platform bed uses solid wood for support and does not allow for that much airflow (unlike slats). Now, in terms of cooling, latex and hybrid mattresses usually perform the best. However, if you want that deep hug memory foam can offer, look for models that have a breathable open-cell structure or use gel in their comfort layers.
- Edge support. Many platform beds are lower to the ground. For some users, that can make getting out of bed a bit more challenging (for instance, if you are dealing with back pain that’s causing slight mobility issues) (2). That’s when strong edges can come in handy. They will provide more support for your body when trying to get up. Edge support is also crucial when it comes to partnered sleep, as strong edges can give you and your significant other more sleeping space. In most cases, hybrid and innerspring mattresses can offer the best edge support.
- Thickness. Again, because platform beds often sit lower to the floor, you might want to consider a thicker mattress to make getting in and out of bed easier. Anything measured 10 inches tall (and more) should suffice. Keep in mind that hybrid mattresses are typically taller than other types.
- Motion isolation. This factor is worth your attention if you share your bed with a partner. Usually, hugging and less bouncy mattress types absorb shock from motion quite well, allowing for undisturbed partnered sleep. I mean foam and latex mattresses. Hybrid models can also do well with motion absorption if they have extra-thick, cradling comfort layers.
- Sleep trial and warranty. These two aspects can guarantee your protection as a customer, so it’s better not to neglect them. Now, the standard duration of a sleep trial is 100 or 120 days. However, if you aren’t sure what you need exactly, you might require a longer trial. Some companies offer 180 days (like the Saatva) or even 365 days, in rare cases. As for the warranty coverage, it can often be an indication of the quality. A longer warranty would mean that the manufacturer truly stands behind their product.
- Price. This is the trick I always use: if you set a specific budget, you will easily narrow down the list of possible options (and, potentially, prevent overspending). Now, latex mattresses are typically among the most expensive ones. Hybrid and foam mattresses vary in price depending on their construction and the extras that they can offer. Innerspring models are usually the cheapest.
Read more: Top 10 Most Comfortable Mattresses
Can Your Favorite Sleep Position Affect Your Choice of the Best Mattress for a Platform Bed?
The answer is – yes.
Your preferred sleep position is one of the most crucial factors you need to take into account when looking for a good mattress that doesn’t need a box spring. You see, the firmness level can determine how comfortable and supportive your mattress is going to feel. So, here are general recommendations for different types of users:
- Back sleepers. This sleep position requires minimal cradling for the hips and buttocks and sturdy support for the spine. That’s why back sleepers are usually recommended to choose medium or medium-firm mattresses;
- Side sleepers. For side sleepers, it is crucial to receive a generous hug for the protruding parts of the body. Therefore, softer mattresses usually work the best for this sleeping position;
- Stomach sleepers. In this sleep position, it is vital to maintain a neutral spine and prevent any awkward bends (especially in the lower back). That’s why stomach sleepers are advised to pick firmer mattresses. If you are a heavier user (over 230 pounds), you might even go for an extra-firm model to receive adequate support;
- Combination sleepers. For combo sleepers, a good mattress should not restrict movement during the night. So, if you tend to switch positions frequently during sleep, consider a medium or a medium-firm mattress. This firmness level is usually the most optimal one for multiple sleep positions.
Read more: TOP 5 Extra-Firm Mattresses
F.A.Q.
How thick should a mattress be for a platform bed?
Since platform beds are usually low to the ground, you might want to get a mattress that’s around 10-12 inches tall and more. This way, it will be easier for you to get in and out of bed.
Can I put my mattress directly on platform bed slats?
Yes, but you first need to make sure that the distance between the slats is suitable for your mattress type. You can check the recommendations on the mattress manufacturer’s website. The slat spacing should also be mentioned among your mattress’s warranty conditions.
Do I need to buy a special mattress for a platform bed?
No, all mattress types can be used on a platform bed.
Wrapping Up
To find a perfect mattress for a platform bed, you don’t have to scan hundreds of stores and waste hours of your time. All you have to do is check out the best models we have gathered for you and take your preferences into consideration. Don’t forget to factor your sleep position in when shopping, plus read more about the warranty coverage (to protect your investment).
Given the great mattresses available, picking one can take time and effort. However, my favorite is the AS3 hybrid by Amerisleep. I like that the support offered by this mattress better complements the support from a platform frame, keeping the body correctly aligned regardless of body weight. Although I feel the thermoregulation was just okay, I like that the materials used were of good quality, giving me some assurance regarding value and longevity.
Have you made up your mind? Which mattress managed to catch your eye? Let us know in the comments!
References:
- Natalie Silver (December 13, 2019). What Is the Best Temperature for Sleep? Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep/best-temperature-to-sleep
- Steven R. Garfin (n.d.). Is Spine Pain Reducing Your Mobility? Retrieved from https://www.spineuniverse.com/wellness/mobility/spine-pain-reducing-your-mobility?
Our research
27
Mattresses Considered
112
Hours of Research
2
Sleep Experts Consulted