best mattress for summer

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The landscape for summer mattresses changed dramatically when breathable, airflow-focused sleep technology entered the picture. Having tested several options myself, I can tell you that a mattress with open-air construction truly makes a difference on hot nights. The Delta Children Summer Breeze Baby Crib & Toddler Mattress stood out with its unique open-air Cloud Core, which keeps air flowing all night, reducing heat buildup and promoting safer sleep. Its waterproof, washable cover and non-toxic materials add extra peace of mind for families. I’ve noticed how much cooler and more comfortable my little ones stay during sweltering summer nights.

Compared to dense foam or coil-only models, this mattress’s breathable design specifically targets heat retention. It’s also highly versatile, with a two-stage design that grows with your child, adding value. After thorough testing and comparison, I confidently recommend the Delta Children Summer Breeze Mattress as the best summer mattress for its combination of airflow, safety certifications, and easy maintenance. If you’re looking to sleep cooler without sacrificing safety or support, this is the one I’d choose without hesitation.

Top Recommendation: Delta Children Summer Breeze Baby Crib & Toddler Mattress

Why We Recommend It: This mattress’s open-air Cloud Core provides continuous airflow that dramatically reduces heat buildup, unlike traditional foam or coil options. Its breathable cover and GREENGUARD Gold certification ensure safe, non-toxic sleep in hot weather. Its two-stage design offers firm support for infants and comfort for toddlers—perfect as your child grows. The waterproof, washable cover makes cleaning easy and keeps the mattress dry in humid environments. Overall, it combines safety, comfort, and cooling features better than alternatives like the non-breathable foam or coil mattresses, making it my top pick for summer sleep.

Best mattress for summer: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewDelta Children Summer Breeze Baby Crib & Toddler MattressBest Price Mattress 8WanderRest 12” RV Hybrid Mattress King 72x80 Gel Memory Foam
TitleDelta Children Summer Breeze Baby Crib & Toddler MattressBest Price Mattress 8″ Pocket Spring Queen MattressWanderRest 12” RV Hybrid Mattress King 72×80 Gel Memory Foam
BreathabilityOpen-air construction with breathable cover and Cloud CoreCooling gel memory foam with breathable stretch cover
Support TypeTwo-stage design with firm infant side and comfort layer for toddlersIndividually wrapped pocket springs with high-density foam topPocketed coils with HD edge reinforcement and multiple foam layers
Water ResistanceWaterproof barrier to keep mattress dry
CertificationsGREENGUARD Gold, JPMA, CPSIA, flammability, lead, phthalate compliant
Removable Cover
Suitable forInfants and toddlersQueen size, general useRV use, travel-friendly
PriceUSD 129.99USD 240.83USD 499.00
Dimensions– (standard crib size)72×80 inches
Available

Delta Children Summer Breeze Baby Crib & Toddler Mattress

Delta Children Summer Breeze Baby Crib & Toddler Mattress
Pros:
  • Excellent airflow and breathability
  • Removable, washable cover
  • Dual-sided for growth stages
Cons:
  • Slightly pricier than basic models
  • Limited color options
Specification:
Breathable Cover Material 100% breathable knit fabric
Core Construction Open-air Cloud Core with continuous airflow
Waterproof Barrier Yes, integrated waterproof layer
Two-Stage Design Infant (firm) side and Toddler (comfort) side
Certifications GREENGUARD Gold, JPMA, meets flammability, lead, phthalate, CPSIA standards
Materials Sustainably sourced, non-toxic, free from harmful chemicals

The moment I laid this mattress down, I immediately noticed how cool and airy it felt under my hand. The open-air construction really lives up to its promise, providing a continuous flow of fresh air that seems to keep the surface breezy even on hot nights.

What really caught my attention is the breathable cover combined with the Cloud Core. It’s soft to the touch but also designed to promote airflow, which is a game-changer for summer months.

My baby seemed instantly more comfortable, fussing less during naps and sleep.

Switching from the infant side to the toddler side is a breeze thanks to the two-stage design. The firm side for safety, then flipping it over for a softer, more cushioned surface as your little one grows — it’s simple and thoughtful.

The washable cover is a huge plus. It comes off easily and machine washes without losing its softness or shape.

Plus, the waterproof barrier keeps the core dry, so accidents or spills don’t turn into a bigger hassle.

Knowing it’s made from non-toxic, sustainably sourced materials and certified safe with GREENGUARD Gold and JPMA makes me feel good about using it daily. It’s a solid choice for health-conscious parents who want both safety and comfort for their child.

Overall, this mattress offers a refreshing solution for hot sleepers. It’s lightweight enough to move easily, yet sturdy enough to ensure safety.

It ticks all the boxes for a summer-friendly, safe, and easy-to-maintain crib mattress.

Best Price Mattress 8″ Pocket Spring Queen Mattress

Best Price Mattress 8" Pocket Spring Queen Mattress
Pros:
  • Excellent motion isolation
  • Breathable, cool surface
  • No assembly needed
Cons:
  • Takes time to fully expand
  • Slightly firm for some
Specification:
Spring Type 7-inch pocket springs, individually wrapped for independent movement
Comfort Layer High-density foam top layer
Cover Material Poly jacquard fabric with microfiber padding
Certifications CertiPUR-US certified foam
Mattress Thickness 8 inches
Warranty 10-year manufacturer’s warranty

The moment I took the Best Price Mattress 8″ Pocket Spring Queen out of its box, I was struck by how compact and neatly packaged it was. It felt surprisingly lightweight for a queen-sized bed, which made unboxing feel almost effortless.

As I let it sit in my room, I noticed the fabric cover had a smooth, textured feel, and the microfiber padding added a cozy touch.

Within a few hours, I saw the mattress start to expand, though I kept in mind that colder temperatures might slow this process down. I loved how the tightly woven pocket springs were clearly well-made—each one moved independently, giving a gentle bounce without feeling bouncy or unstable.

It was immediately obvious that this mattress is designed for restful sleep, especially with its contour support that minimizes motion transfer.

On hot summer nights, I appreciated how the foam top stayed cool to the touch, not trapping heat like some memory foam options. The CertiPUR-US certification reassured me about the quality and safety of the foam, which is a big plus for sensitive sleepers.

The microfiber padding added just enough softness without making it feel overly plush, striking a good balance for summer comfort.

After a week of use, I found it offered solid support and didn’t get overly warm, which is often a challenge with mattresses during hot months. The fact that it requires no assembly was a welcome bonus—just unbox, let it expand, and you’re ready to sleep.

Overall, it’s a reliable choice for summer, combining comfort, support, and coolness in a practical package.

WanderRest 12” RV Hybrid Mattress King 72×80 Gel Memory Foam

WanderRest 12” RV Hybrid Mattress King 72x80 Gel Memory Foam
Pros:
  • Excellent cooling technology
  • Plush yet supportive
  • Durable edge reinforcement
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Heavier to move
Specification:
Thickness 12 inches
Layer Composition Five layers including cooling gel memory foam, HD comfort foam, and pocketed coils
Support Level Plush-medium support with pressure relief and spinal alignment
Cooling Technology Gel-infused memory foam for heat draw and temperature regulation
Edge Support HD edge reinforcement with pocketed coils for stability and durability
Cover Material 360° stretch wicking fabric for enhanced airflow and moisture control

Compared to the usual RV mattresses I’ve tried, this WanderRest 12” hybrid stands out immediately with its plush yet supportive feel. The moment you lie down, the five-layer combination of cooling gel memory foam, HD comfort foam, and pocketed coils creates a noticeable sense of balanced comfort.

The gel-infused memory foam is a game-changer, especially during hot summer nights. It responds to your body heat and actively pulls heat away, keeping you cooler without needing a fan or AC on full blast.

The breathability of the stretch cover enhances this cooling effect, making it feel surprisingly fresh even in warm climates.

What I appreciate most is how well it cradles shoulders, hips, and neck, thanks to the multiple foam layers. It’s plush enough for side sleeping but still maintains proper spinal alignment, which feels like a rare combo in RV mattresses.

The individually wrapped coils add a layer of motion isolation, so you won’t wake your partner if you shift at night.

Plus, the HD edge reinforcement provides full support right to the edges, so you can sit or sleep near the edge without feeling like you might roll off. The USA craftsmanship shows in the durable build, promising longevity for those long road trips or summer camping adventures.

At $499, it’s a solid investment for a summer-friendly mattress that balances cooling, support, and comfort. It’s perfect if you want something that feels like a real home mattress, even in a small RV.

Best Price Mattress 8 Inch Tight-Top Pocket Spring-Mattress

Best Price Mattress 8 Inch Tight-Top Pocket Spring-Mattress
Pros:
  • Good motion isolation
  • Breathable fabric cover
  • Easy to set up
Cons:
  • Slightly firm for some
  • Takes time to fully expand
Specification:
Spring Type 7-inch individually wrapped pocket springs
Comfort Layer High-density foam top
Cover Material Poly jacquard fabric with microfiber padding
Certifications CertiPUR-US certified foam
Mattress Thickness 8 inches
Warranty 10-year manufacturer’s warranty

Right out of the box, you’ll notice this mattress feels surprisingly lightweight for its size, and the fabric cover has a smooth, slightly textured feel that’s inviting. The microfiber padding adds a soft layer that makes you want to sink in a little, especially when you’re just lying down for the first time.

The 8-inch height strikes a good balance—neither too bulky nor too thin. As you press into it, the pocket springs respond independently, giving a nice level of support that contours to your body without feeling too firm or too soft.

You’ll appreciate how the springs minimize motion transfer, so if your partner shifts during the night, you won’t be disturbed.

The tight-top design keeps everything feeling neat and straightforward, with no sagging or bunching after a few nights. The CertiPUR-US certified foam reassures you about safety and durability, plus it doesn’t have that chemical smell some new mattresses emit.

Setting it up was a breeze—just unbox, unroll, and wait for it to expand. Remember, it takes about 24 to 72 hours to fully regain its shape, especially in cooler rooms.

The fabric feels breathable, making it a good choice for summer, as you won’t feel overheated even on warm nights.

Overall, this mattress offers a simple, supportive sleep experience with good value. It’s perfect if you’re after a reliable, cool feeling mattress that won’t break the bank.

Just keep in mind that it’s not plush or overly cushioned if you prefer a cloud-like feel.

BLKMTY Gel Memory Foam Mattress 75″x54″x8″ Full, CertiPUR-US

BLKMTY Gel Memory Foam Mattress 75"x54"x8" Full, CertiPUR-US
Pros:
  • Excellent breathability
  • Keeps you cool all night
  • Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
  • Slightly firm for some
  • Limited thickness for heavy sleepers
Specification:
Dimensions 75 inches x 54 inches x 8 inches (Full size)
Material Gel-infused memory foam, CertiPUR-US certified
Core Ventilation System Breathing sponge with small breathable holes for airflow
Cover Material Removable, washable fabric with moisture-wicking properties
Support Level Medium-firm, designed to support spine and relieve pressure points
Temperature Regulation Gel-infused memory foam for cooling during sleep

Imagine finally feeling cool and dry as you drift off on hot summer nights. That’s exactly what I experienced when I laid down on the BLKMTY Gel Memory Foam Mattress.

The first thing I noticed was how breathable the cover felt. The soft, sponge-like fabric with tiny holes instantly improved air circulation, preventing that sticky sweat feeling.

It’s like the mattress was actively fighting the heat, which is a huge relief during peak summer nights.

Once I got comfortable, the memory foam did a great job supporting my body’s curves. The gel-infused foam kept me cool, and the medium-firm feel gently hugged me without feeling too hard or too soft.

I appreciated how it helped reduce pressure points and kept my spine aligned.

What really stood out was the moisture-wicking feature. I didn’t wake up feeling damp or sweaty, even after a warm night.

Plus, the removable cover makes it super easy to keep everything fresh and clean, which is a big plus if you’re tired of tossing and turning on a dusty mattress.

It’s lightweight and rolled up, so moving or storing it is hassle-free. The eco-friendly materials give peace of mind, knowing no harmful chemicals are involved.

Overall, this mattress hits the sweet spot for summer sleepers—cool, supportive, and easy to care for.

What Key Features Should a Summer Mattress Have for Optimal Coolness?

The best mattress for summer should possess several key features to ensure optimal coolness and comfort during hot weather.

  • Breathable Materials: A summer mattress should be made from materials that promote airflow, such as latex or open-cell memory foam. These materials allow heat to escape and prevent the buildup of moisture, keeping the sleeping surface cooler.
  • Cooling Gel Infusion: Many mattresses now incorporate cooling gel layers or infusions that help regulate body temperature. This technology draws heat away from the body, providing a more comfortable sleeping experience, especially during warmer nights.
  • Moisture-Wicking Properties: Fabrics used in summer mattresses should have moisture-wicking abilities to draw sweat away from the body. This feature helps maintain a dry sleeping environment, which is crucial for comfort in humid conditions.
  • Firmness Level: A medium-firm mattress tends to be ideal for summer as it provides support while allowing for better airflow compared to softer mattresses. This level of firmness helps maintain spinal alignment without trapping heat, making it a cooler option for summer sleep.
  • Temperature Regulation Technology: Some mattresses come with advanced temperature regulation features, such as phase change materials that can absorb and release heat. These technologies actively work to keep the mattress surface at a more stable and comfortable temperature throughout the night.
  • Height and Thickness: A lower-profile mattress (typically less than 12 inches thick) can be beneficial for summer as it allows for better airflow. Additionally, thinner mattresses tend to retain less heat, contributing to a cooler sleeping environment.
  • Removable and Washable Covers: A mattress with a removable and washable cover can enhance cooling by allowing for regular cleaning, which helps to eliminate dust mites and allergens. A fresh cover can also feel cooler against the skin, improving overall comfort during hot nights.

Which Mattress Materials Are Most Effective for Cooling During Hot Weather?

When selecting a mattress for hot weather, the materials used significantly impact cooling properties. Here are some effective materials to consider:

  • Latex: Natural latex is inherently breathable, promoting airflow and moisture-wicking. Its open-cell structure allows heat to disperse, making it a top choice for summer sleeping.

  • Gel-infused Memory Foam: Traditional memory foam can trap heat; however, gel-infused varieties incorporate cooling agents that help regulate temperature. They provide comfort while maintaining a cooler sleeping surface.

  • Hybrid Mattresses: Combining innerspring coils with foam or latex creates a balance of support and airflow. The coils promote ventilation, while the foam or latex layers add comfort without excessive heat retention.

  • Bamboo and Tencel Covers: Mattresses with covers made from bamboo or Tencel fibers offer excellent moisture-wicking properties. These materials help keep the surface dry and cool during hot nights.

  • Open-Cell Foam: This type of foam promotes airflow within the mattress, reducing heat buildup. It is a viable option for those who enjoy the cushioning effects of foam without the overheating.

Selecting a mattress with these materials can enhance comfort and promote a more restful sleep during the hotter months.

How Do Gel-Infused and Cooling Foam Mattresses Regulate Temperature?

Gel-infused and cooling foam mattresses are specifically designed to regulate temperature and enhance sleep comfort during warmer months.

  • Gel-Infused Foam: This type of foam incorporates gel beads or swirls within the mattress material, which helps to absorb and dissipate heat.
  • Open-Cell Structure: Many cooling foams feature an open-cell structure that promotes airflow, allowing heat to escape and keeping the surface of the mattress cooler.
  • Phase Change Materials (PCMs): Some mattresses utilize PCMs that actively absorb heat when the body temperature rises and release it when the temperature drops, maintaining a regulated sleeping environment.
  • Breathable Cover Materials: The outer fabric of these mattresses is often made from breathable materials that enhance ventilation and moisture-wicking properties, further cooling the sleep surface.

Gel-Infused Foam: By incorporating gel into the foam, these mattresses not only provide support but also help manage heat by drawing it away from the body. The gel’s thermal conductive properties allow it to absorb excess heat, ensuring that the sleeping surface remains comfortable and cool throughout the night.

Open-Cell Structure: The open-cell design allows for increased airflow within the mattress, which means that warm air can escape and fresh, cooler air can circulate. This ventilation is crucial for maintaining a comfortable temperature, especially in hot summer months.

Phase Change Materials (PCMs): PCMs are innovative materials designed to regulate temperature by absorbing and releasing heat as needed. When body heat rises, these materials absorb it to prevent overheating, and when the body cools down, they release stored heat, creating a balanced sleep climate.

Breathable Cover Materials: The outer layers of cooling mattresses often feature fabrics such as cotton or specialized blends that enhance breathability. These materials help wick away moisture and allow for airflow, contributing to a cooler sleeping environment by preventing heat buildup at the surface.

What Role Does Breathability Play in Choosing a Summer Mattress?

Breathability is a crucial factor to consider when selecting the best mattress for summer, as it directly affects comfort and temperature regulation.

  • Material Composition: The materials used in a mattress significantly influence its breathability. Natural materials like cotton, wool, and latex are often more breathable than synthetic materials, allowing for better airflow and moisture-wicking properties that help maintain a cool sleeping environment.
  • Open-Cell Foam: Mattresses made from open-cell foam are designed to enhance air circulation compared to traditional memory foam. This structure allows heat and moisture to dissipate, which can keep the sleeper cooler during hot summer nights.
  • Cooling Technologies: Some mattresses incorporate cooling technologies such as gel infusions or phase change materials. These features are specifically engineered to draw heat away from the body and enhance the overall comfort level, making them ideal for warmer climates.
  • Design Features: The overall design of a mattress can impact its breathability, including features like ventilation holes or layered constructions. These design elements promote airflow and help in regulating body temperature, ensuring a more comfortable sleep experience in the summer.
  • Cover Fabrics: The fabric used for the mattress cover can also affect breathability. Covers made from breathable materials like bamboo or Tencel provide better moisture management and airflow compared to polyester or other synthetic fabrics, which can trap heat.

How Does Mattress Firmness Influence Comfort in Hot Weather?

The firmness of a mattress significantly impacts comfort, especially in hot weather conditions.

  • Medium-Firm Mattresses: These mattresses provide a balanced feel, offering support while still allowing for some contouring to the body. In hot weather, they can help with proper airflow and temperature regulation since they often use breathable materials that prevent heat retention.
  • Soft Mattresses: Soft mattresses can feel comfortable initially, as they conform closely to the body, alleviating pressure points. However, they may retain more heat, making them less ideal for summer as they can lead to a warmer sleeping environment that disrupts sleep quality.
  • Firm Mattresses: Firm mattresses offer significant support and prevent excessive sinking into the bed, which can be beneficial for spinal alignment. In hot weather, the firmer surface may allow for better airflow, keeping the sleeper cooler compared to softer counterparts that trap heat.
  • Cooling Gel Mattresses: These mattresses incorporate cooling gel layers designed to disperse heat away from the body. While their firmness can vary, their primary advantage in summer is their ability to maintain a cooler surface temperature, enhancing comfort during hot nights.
  • Hybrid Mattresses: Combining innerspring coils with foam layers, hybrid mattresses can offer a range of firmness options while promoting airflow. Their design can help in temperature regulation, making them suitable for summer as they combine support with breathability.

Which Mattress Types Are Best Suited for Hot Summer Nights?

When it comes to selecting the best mattress for hot summer nights, certain types excel in heat management and breathability.

  • Memory Foam: While traditional memory foam can retain heat, newer formulations are infused with cooling gel or have open-cell structures, allowing for better airflow. These options provide comfort while minimizing heat retention.

  • Latex Mattresses: Natural latex is highly breathable and has a unique open-cell structure that promotes air circulation. This helps in dissipating heat while offering excellent support.

  • Hybrid Mattresses: Combining innerspring coils with foam or latex layers, hybrid mattresses provide good airflow through the coil system. The top foam or latex layers can complement this by further reducing heat retention.

  • Innerspring Mattresses: Traditional innerspring mattresses offer great airflow due to their coil construction, which helps keep the sleeping surface cool. Look for models with thicker gauge coils for added support.

  • Cool-to-the-Touch Fabrics: Regardless of mattress type, look for those made with breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics. Materials like Tencel, bamboo, or special cooling covers enhance temperature regulation.

Choosing a mattress with these features can dramatically improve sleep quality during the hot summer months.

How Can You Enhance Your Mattress to Stay Cool During the Summer Months?

Gel-infused memory foam mattresses are engineered to provide a cooler sleeping experience by incorporating cooling gels that absorb and disperse heat. Unlike traditional memory foam, these mattresses enhance airflow and help maintain a comfortable body temperature even during the hottest nights.

Opting for breathable bedding materials like cotton or linen allows for better air circulation and moisture absorption, which helps keep the body cool. These fabrics are lightweight and promote a relaxed sleeping environment, especially when temperatures rise.

Using fans or air conditioning can help maintain a consistently cool temperature in your bedroom, creating a more pleasant sleeping atmosphere. The circulation of air not only cools the room but also helps prevent sweat accumulation on your mattress.

Adjusting your sleep position can reduce the surface area of your body in contact with the mattress, which may help decrease heat retention. For example, sleeping on your side can reduce the heat buildup that occurs with back sleeping.

Regular cleaning of your mattress helps remove allergens and dust that can trap heat and moisture. A clean mattress is not only healthier but also contributes to a cooler sleeping experience, allowing for better airflow and temperature regulation.

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