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Are you dreaming of a thick luxurious mattress, but your budget and room conditions can only allow for a low-profile bed?
Don’t worry!
Today’s mattress market is very diverse, and thinner beds perform no worse than thick luxurious mattresses from well-known brands in terms of support and durability.
So, check my reviews of the best thin mattresses that I have found and simply choose the model that fits your needs the most!
A Quick Preview
 | Best Overall - Editor’s Choice Puffy Mattress | Check Current Price Read more about this mattress |
 | Second Best 10-Inch Mattress AS1 by Amerisleep | Check Current Price Read more about this mattress |
 | Third Best 10 inch Robin by Nest Bedding | Check Current Price Read more about this mattress |
 | Best 8-Inch Mattress Linenspa Memory Foam Hybrid | Check Current Price on Amazon Read more about this mattress |
 | Best 6-Inch Mattress Aveline Mattress by Modway | Check Current Price on Amazon Read more about this mattress |
Our Reviews of 5 Top Low-Profile Mattresses on the Market
Best Overall - Editor’s Choice — Puffy Mattress
Highlights
- multiple foam layers to guarantee reliable support;
- close conforming to achieve pinpoint pressure alleviation;
- gel infusion for cooler sleep.
The best thin mattress has to be super comfortable regardless of its height. And the Puffy is the perfect example of that. This model uses multiple layers of conforming memory foam and, thus, feels like a gentle hug. I especially appreciate how the Puffy managed to keep my back straight during the night. It helped reduce tension in my lower back after a long day of office work.
Read our full Puffy mattress review for more information.
Second Best 10-Inch Mattress — AS1 by Amerisleep
Highglights
- open-cell design to ensure unobstructed airflow and cooler sleep;
- high-density support base for reliable, long-lasting performance;
- extended warranty for your peace of mind.
Another model that can be called one of the best thin mattresses is the AS1 by Amerisleep. This 10-inch mattress would be an excellent choice for those who prefer low-profile beds and appreciate sturdy, reliable support. The AS1 uses only 2 layers of foam, which means this model won’t cradle you that much (which makes it ideal for back and stomach sleepers). Another cool thing is that the AS1 mattress doesn’t restrict movement. If you are a combo sleeper like me, you will appreciate this aspect very much.
Now, it’s also worth mentioning that the Amerisleep AS1 uses the company’s proprietary Bio-Pur foam. It is plant-based and has an open-cell (ventilated) structure. As a result of that, the AS1 sleeps cooler than traditional foam mattresses. To tell the truth, I didn’t even have to adjust my thermostat when testing the AS1, as it managed to create a temperature-neutral sleeping environment.
Read our full Amerisleep AS mattress review for more information.
Third Best 10 inch — Robin by Nest Bedding
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Check Current Price Read our detailed review
Highglights
- dual-sided design to satisfy different types of sleepers;
- reinforced edges to provide uniform support all across the surface;
- cooling foam for increased comfort and sweat-free pressure relief.
Another model that absolutely has to be among the best thin mattresses is the 10-inch Robin by Nest Bedding. This mattress has something to surprise you with, and that’s two firmness levels in one model. That’s something low-profile mattresses typically can’t offer. Thanks to this smart construction, the Robin can satisfy more users. Plus, it has a very balanced feel. That has to do with the smart combination of responsive coils and hugging foam. Both sides of the Robin feel supportive and cradling at the same time (with the Medium side offering a bit more of a hug).
Best 8-Inch Mattress — Linenspa Memory Foam Hybrid
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Check Current Price on Amazon Read our detailed review
Highglights
- medium-firm feel to offer universal comfort to a wide variety of users;
- quilted cover to provide extra padding;
- tempered steel coils for reliable support.
Want something minimalistic yet comfortable? Then you should consider the Linenspa hybrid. This mattress has a simple construction and comes with an attractive price tag, but it deserves to be among the best thin mattresses nonetheless. This model has a medium feel that reaches that golden middle: not too soft, not too firm. The Linenspa offers just the right amount of cradling for pressure points. At the same time, the sturdy coil system prevents excessive sinkage and aids proper weight distribution. Thanks to that, my wife and I both enjoyed using this mattress, even though we have different favorite sleep positions.
Best 6-Inch Mattress — Aveline Mattress by Modway
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Highlights
- small air channels in the comfort foam to create a cooler sleep environment;
- stretch-knit cover fabric to prevent body impressions and premature signs of wear and tear;
- responsive base layer for enhanced support.
Looking for an extra-thin mattress but don’t want to sacrifice your comfort and peaceful sleep? In this case, you might want to consider another one of the best thin mattresses, the Aveline by Modway. This low-profile mattress might surprise you with its ability to relieve pressure while taking minimal space in the room. You might also appreciate the fact that this model takes one extra step to ensure cooler sleep. It combines gel-infused foam with small air channels all across the surface for proper air circulation and cooling.
Things to Consider to Choose a Suitable Low-Profile Mattress
There are different mattresses on the market (1), and finding the right one can easily turn into a headache. I’ve prepared a quick cheat sheet that you can use when choosing a thin foam mattress so you won’t end up disappointed.
Keep in Mind Your Lifestyle
Where will you install your mattress — in your master bedroom or in the guest room? Or, are you looking for a mattress compatible with your RV? A thin mattress can make a perfect purchase for each of these occasions. But if you’re only planning to sleep on your mattress occasionally, you may not need extra durable and innovative materials, so a bed with basic construction will do fine for you. In fact, you may want to focus mainly on affordability and small weight.
Most low-profile beds come compressed in a box, which makes delivering them up the narrow staircase in your home or through the passages in your RV much easier.
Thin mattresses also make a safer option for bunk beds in your kids’ room, as they don’t create a dangerously high bed and reduce the risk of serious injuries in case your child accidentally falls down from the upper level. Note that if it’s your child who is going to use the mattress, be sure to consider their firmness preferences as well. Also, make sure you pick the proper size to prevent the mattress from sliding off (2).
Calculate the Height of Your Bed
When you’re shopping for a thin mattress, it is important that you understand how high your bed will eventually be. The comfortable height for an average person is believed to be around 25 inches (3). That includes the bed frame, the box spring if you use any, and the mattress.
With that said, if you want a thinner mattress but don’t want your bed to be low-profile, you should pair the mattress with a higher frame and box spring to compensate for its thinness.
Think About Your Spine Health
Your health should be a priority when choosing a mattress, and if you have some back problems, you need to find yourself a bed that won’t make them worse. Surprisingly, many of the thinner mattresses have great pressure and pain-relieving properties. You may choose a softer bed that will conform closely to your body and relax your sore muscles. Or, if your back problems are caused by poor posture, you may want a firmer mattress that will help your spine stretch and align properly. Luckily, both of these options are available among thinner mattresses.
Note that thinner beds typically tend to have medium-firm and firm feel, especially models with coils. This makes them a good purchase for heavy sleepers, as well as for those who sleep on their back or stomach.
Define Your Budget
If you have a limited budget, a thin mattress can be your go-to option while offering nearly the same amount of comfort. Since thin beds require fewer resources to be made, it’s no wonder they are cheaper than thicker mattresses. The average price of a regular budget-friendly mattress varies between $200 and 700 for a Queen, depending on its type. But mattresses with just 2-3 layers are on the lower end of the range, and you can easily get a good option for as low as $200.
Consider Your Weight
While low-profile mattresses can be very comfortable, they might not work for everyone. And one of the decisive factors is the sleeper’s weight.
For instance, heavier individuals apply more pressure to the mattress. If it’s too thin, it might not deliver the needed level of support. That’s why larger sleepers may want to get a firmer model. It’s also crucial to pick denser foams or thicker coils, as they can offer sturdier support and tend to be longer-lasting.
Lightweight people (those who weigh less than 130 pounds) should also be careful when picking a low-profile mattress. The thing is, some thin mattresses can be somewhat modest in terms of comfort layers. Therefore, they might not provide the needed pressure alleviation for petite sleepers, especially given that their weight isn’t always enough to compress the comfort layers of the mattress. That’s why lightweight individuals may need to pick slightly softer thin mattresses. It also wouldn't hurt to choose models that use multiple comfort layers.
What Is the Best Type of Low-Profile Mattresses?
Going through the list of the best thin mattresses, one might feel doubtful concerning which type to choose. And that’s something many shoppers face, as today’s mattress market has quite a lot to offer.
So, to help you make up your mind, let’s take a look at common mattress types and what makes them unique. After all, those peculiarities are what can help you decide what you need exactly:
- Memory foam. These mattresses are famous for their gentle hug and pressure-alleviating properties. Memory foam is highly adaptive and contour’s the sleeper’s body to aid proper weight distribution. However, since this material has a rather slow response to applied pressure, it can somewhat restrict one’s movements. Plus, foam often causes heat build-up during the night, which can be a serious issue for hot sleepers.
- Polyfoam. Polyurethane foam mattresses are typically cheaper than memory foam models. Polyfoam offers close conforming but responds faster to pressure, which means this material isn’t as restrictive as memory foam.
- Innerspring. Spring mattresses use coils for the support core and usually a thin layer of padding (foam, fiber, wool, etc.). These mattresses can deliver uniform support all across the perimeter but often lack pressure-relieving abilities. Good news for hot sleepers, though: innerspring mattresses are very breathable, so they are less likely to cause heat retention.
- Latex. There aren’t too many low-profile latex mattresses, but you can still find a few. Latex is highly adaptive (just like memory foam) and does a great job of reducing pressure points. At the same time, it’s quite bouncy and doesn’t restrict movement. Latex mattresses don’t usually sleep hot and can boast of impressive durability. However, these mattresses can be rather expensive.
A quick note: you might have heard of hybrid mattresses as well, but it’s hard to find one that would have a low-profile design. Hybrid mattresses, as the name suggests, use a combination of materials. As a result, they are often bulky and tall, and won’t work for those users who want a thin mattress.
What Makes a Good Thin Mattress?
After you have defined your budget, figured out the perfect height of your bed, and learned more about mattress types, you have a few more factors to check out before making your purchase (hopefully, a successful one). So, here are the aspects that make a good low-profile mattress:
- Dense foam. Denser foam is more reliable and durable. Yes, it would also cost a bit more, but such a quality mattress would redistribute your weight better and thus, make you sleep more comfortably.
- Pocketed coils. If you choose an innerspring mattress, you might want to get the one that uses pocketed coils. Independent coils can offer better pressure relief and lower motion transfer. Plus, such mattresses are less likely to start making squeaky noises (unlike the models using continuous coils).
- Edge support. Strong edges can offer a couple of benefits. First of all, they can give you and your partner more space. Additionally, it may be more challenging to get out of a lower bed. So, you will need strong edges to press your hands into and give yourself a little push to get up.
- Suitable firmness for your sleeping style. In general, side sleepers prefer softer mattresses, back sleepers - something in the middle (medium or medium-firm), and strict stomach sleepers - firmer, sturdier mattresses. If you choose a firmness level that isn’t suited for your particular sleeping style, your spine might fall into misalignment during the night. As a result, you will experience tension accumulation in your back and perhaps even back pain.
- Thermoregulation. For chronic hot sleepers, even a thinner mattress can cause night sweats. In this case, you might want to look for cooling components or designs. They include open-cell or gel-infused foam, breathable coils, and temperature-neutral latex.
Summary
A thinner mattress doesn’t have to be uncomfortable, and you already know that. However, to find the one that could make you sleep like a baby, you need to consider certain aspects when shopping. Don’t forget to measure your bed frame to choose the optimal mattress thickness. Plus, keep your back health in mind: only a supportive mattress can be truly comfortable. And of course, set a certain budget to effectively narrow down the list of options you have.
As for me, I would love to use the Puffy Mattress every single night. It’s a comfortable model that has a sturdy construction and promises a long-lasting performance. Plus, the Puffy comes with multiple perks (such as cooling components and a lifetime warranty, to name a few). I’m sure the Puffy won’t be likely to disappoint you, especially if you’re looking for a comfy, hugging mattress.
Have you made up your mind? What are you looking for in a thin mattress? Share your thoughts below!
References
- Ben Slater (n.d.). How to Pick Your Perfect Mattress. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/how-to-pick-your-perfect-mattress
- Abe Abbas (2019, September 25). Tips for Preventing Bunk Bed Injuries. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/tips-to-prevent-bunk-bed-injuries-1391288
- https://homeguides.sfgate.com/standard-height-bed-mattress-floor-97238.html
Additional Resources
Our research
19
Mattresses Considered
110
Hours of Research
3
Sleep Experts Consulted