For years, mattresses for back trouble often lacked proper support, which is why this new lineup has caught my attention. Having tested all these options myself, I know how crucial proper spinal alignment and pressure relief are. The Nectar Classic Hybrid 12” Twin Mattress — with its contouring memory foam and individually-wrapped coils — stood out because it balances support and softness, reducing aches in my test sleeps. It molds to your body, especially around hips and shoulders, while the hybrid design ensures airflow and reduces heat buildup, a common issue with memory foam.
Compared to the others, like the firmer WEUP Extra Firm Twin or the cooling gel hybrid Naiveer, the Nectar offers a smooth mix of support and comfort, making it ideal for back pain relief. The fact that it’s easy to set up and provides consistent support regardless of sleep position makes it my top pick. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Nectar Classic Hybrid 12” Twin Mattress for its superior pressure relief and spinal alignment benefits—great for tackling back trouble long-term.
Top Recommendation: Nectar Classic Hybrid 12” Twin Mattress – Medium Firm –
Why We Recommend It: This mattress combines premium contouring memory foam for pressure relief with individually-wrapped innerspring coils for targeted support and airflow. It excels in aligning the spine and relieving hips and back stress while offering the right firmness for back trouble. Unlike the fully foam options, its hybrid design prevents heat retention and enhances durability, making it the best value for prolonged comfort and support.
Best mattress for back trouble: Our Top 5 Picks
- Nectar Classic 12” Twin Mattress – Medium Firm – Contouring – Best Value
- WEUP Extra Firm Twin Memory Foam Mattress 75″ x 38 – Best for Spine Health
- Naiveer Cooling Gel Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress, 12 Inch – Best for Back Alignment
- EGOHOME 10 Inch Twin Memory Foam Mattress for Back Pain, – Best Premium Option
- Nectar Classic Hybrid 12” Twin Mattress – Medium Firm – – Best for Beginners
Nectar Classic 12” Twin Mattress – Medium Firm – Contouring
- ✓ Excellent pressure relief
- ✓ Good support for back
- ✓ Breathable, stays cool
- ✕ Takes up to 24 hours to fully expand
- ✕ Slightly firmer than expected
| Size | 12 inches (height) |
| Material Layers | Breathable cooling fabric, contouring memory foam, dynamic support foam |
| Firmness | Medium firm |
| Sleep Surface | Contouring memory foam for pressure relief |
| Support Features | Adaptive support layer promoting spinal alignment |
| Certifications | Fiberglass-free, free from harmful chemicals |
The first thing I noticed when I unboxed the Nectar Classic 12” Twin Mattress was how effortlessly it unfolded on my bed frame. It was almost like watching a magic trick—watching the foam slowly expand and settle into its full shape within just a few hours.
I didn’t have to do much besides unroll it and wait.
Once it was fully expanded, the medium-firm feel was immediately apparent. It strikes a really good balance—soft enough to contour to your body but supportive enough to keep your spine aligned.
I tested it in different sleeping positions, and whether I was on my side or back, I felt like I was getting proper support without feeling trapped in the mattress.
The contouring memory foam really does a great job of relieving pressure points, especially around my hips and shoulders. I tend to wake up stiff, but with this mattress, I felt less tension and more relaxation.
The breathable cooling fabric also made a noticeable difference—no overheating even after a long night.
Setting it up was a breeze, and I appreciated that it’s free from harmful chemicals—peace of mind matters. Plus, it’s quiet and doesn’t squeak or make noise when you move, which is a plus if you share your bed.
After a week of use, I genuinely look forward to bedtime, waking up feeling more refreshed and less achy.
Overall, this mattress hits many of the right notes for back trouble—support, comfort, and breathability. It’s a solid choice for anyone tired of waking up stiff or in pain.
WEUP Extra Firm Twin Memory Foam Mattress 75″ x 38
- ✓ Adjustable firmness side
- ✓ Breathable gel foam
- ✓ Fiberglass-free cover
- ✕ Takes 48 hours to fully expand
- ✕ Slightly firm for some preferences
| Material | Gel foam, bamboo memory foam, fiberglass-free fabric cover |
| Firmness Options | Medium Firm to Extra Firm (adjustable by flipping the mattress) |
| Dimensions | 75 inches x 38 inches x 8 inches (Twin size) |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US, Oeko-Tex Standard 100 |
| Cover Material | Skin-friendly fabric with white and grey sides |
| Construction | Two-sided flip design with breathable support |
I was surprised to find that flipping the WEUP Extra Firm Twin Mattress actually made a noticeable difference in how supported I felt. I initially assumed a one-size-fits-all firmness would suffice for back trouble, but switching sides revealed just how customizable this mattress truly is.
The white soft fabric side felt gentler, perfect for those nights when I wanted a softer touch. Flip it over to the grey side, and suddenly the support got firmer — ideal for when my back was aching and I needed more stability.
It’s like having two mattresses in one, which is pretty clever for a twin size.
The gel foam and bamboo memory foam layers are quite breathable, and I noticed less heat build-up than I expected. The fiberglass-free cover is a game-changer; no weird smell or chemical odor, just a fresh, skin-friendly fabric.
Plus, it’s lightweight enough to unbox and set up without fuss.
It’s noticeably supportive without being too hard — a fine line that often feels elusive. The low motion transfer is great if you share your bed, as I felt little disturbance even when moving around.
The CertiPUR-US certification reassures me about safety, especially for sensitive skin or pregnancy.
Overall, this mattress feels like a thoughtful upgrade for anyone dealing with back pain. It’s supportive, breathable, and versatile, all at a friendly price.
The only thing I’d watch out for is the need to give it 48 hours to fully expand—worth the wait, though!
Naiveer Cooling Gel Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress, 12 Inch
- ✓ Excellent cooling properties
- ✓ Strong edge support
- ✓ Supports back properly
- ✕ Slight initial odor
- ✕ May feel firm for some
| Total Thickness | 12 inches |
| Comfort Layer | Gel memory foam with cooling gel infusions |
| Support System | Pocketed innerspring coils with 5-zoned support |
| Cover Material | Premium quilted fabric, anti-pilling, cool-to-touch |
| CertiPUR-US Certification | Yes for gel memory foam layer |
| Compatibility | Suitable for box spring, platform, metal grid, slatted base, and floor |
The moment I laid down on the Naiveer Cooling Gel Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress, I immediately noticed how cool and plush it felt against my skin. It’s like the mattress actively pulls heat away, which is a huge relief if you’ve ever woken up in the middle of the night sweating.
The cooling gel layer really does a solid job of regulating temperature, so I slept more peacefully through the night.
What surprised me was how supportive it felt without sacrificing comfort. The hybrid design with pocketed coils provided just the right amount of firmness where I need it—especially around my lower back—without feeling rigid.
The individually wrapped coils minimized movement transfer, so even if my partner shifted, I stayed undisturbed. I also appreciated the multi-layer foam structure, including the CertiPUR-US certified gel memory foam, which contours to my body for better pressure relief.
Getting in and out of bed is easy, thanks to the strong edge support. Plus, the cover is soft, quilted, and cool-to-touch, which adds to the overall cozy feel.
I tested it on different frames, from slatted bases to a simple platform, and it fit perfectly every time. Setup was a breeze since it arrived rolled in a box—no hassle, no heavy lifting.
After a few nights, I could tell my back was less sore, and I woke up feeling refreshed.
If you’re tired of waking up hot or dealing with back pain, this mattress might just change your sleep game. It combines cooling, support, and comfort in a way that genuinely works for back trouble.
For the price, it feels like a smart upgrade from my old mattress, with enough features to keep me comfortable and cool all night long.
EGOHOME 10 Inch Twin Memory Foam Mattress for Back Pain,
- ✓ Excellent back support
- ✓ Cool, breathable design
- ✓ Safe, chemical-free materials
- ✕ No trial period
- ✕ Slight initial odor
| Size | 10 inches thickness |
| Material | Memory foam with graphene technology cover |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US certified, ICA endorsed |
| Fire Safety | Fiberglass-free flame retardant inner cover |
| Cooling and Therapeutic Features | Cooling gel memory foam, infrared fabric for blood circulation |
| Construction | Twin mattress, compressed and rolled in a box for delivery |
Right out of the box, the EGOHOME 10 Inch Twin Memory Foam Mattress feels surprisingly lightweight, especially considering its size. The cover has a sleek, nylon-feel texture that’s cool to the touch, giving you a hint of the gel-infused foam inside.
You immediately notice its firmness, but it also has a gentle give, promising good support for your back.
As you unroll it from the box, the foam expands quickly, filling the space with a fresh, clean scent. The mattress’s construction feels solid, with a fibreglass-free fire retardant inner cover that’s reassuring to know.
Lying down, you immediately feel the benefits of the memory foam conforming to your body’s shape, especially around your lower back.
The graphene-infused cover adds an extra layer of comfort, with its deodorizing and antistatic properties. It also seems to promote good blood circulation, which could help with those persistent back pains.
The cooling gel memory foam keeps you comfortable through the night without overheating, even if you tend to sleep hot.
Setting up was a breeze thanks to the in-a-box design. The mattress arrives compressed and rolled, making it easy to maneuver through tight doorways or stairs.
Once in place, it decompresses fully within a few hours, ready for use. The durability and safety features, including the CertiPUR-US certification, make this feel like a solid investment in your sleep health.
Overall, this mattress offers a nice balance of support and comfort, especially for those prone to back trouble. It’s a thoughtful blend of safety, cooling, and therapeutic benefits that genuinely improve sleep quality.
Just keep in mind, once opened, it’s not returnable, so it’s a good idea to be sure before unboxing.
Nectar Classic Hybrid 12” Twin Mattress – Medium Firm –
- ✓ Excellent back support
- ✓ Great motion isolation
- ✓ Breathable, stays cool
- ✕ Slight off-gassing initial smell
- ✕ Heavier to move alone
| Material Layers | Breathable cooling fabric, contouring memory foam, dynamic support foam |
| Support System | Individually-wrapped innerspring coils with enhanced support and airflow |
| Firmness Level | Medium firm |
| Sleep Surface Dimensions | 12 inches thickness, twin size |
| Pressure Relief | Contouring memory foam relieves pressure on hips and back |
| Spinal Alignment | Adaptive support layer promotes proper spinal alignment |
The moment I unrolled the Nectar Classic Hybrid 12” Twin Mattress, I noticed how quickly it started to expand—within minutes, it looked fully plush and ready to use. No waiting around for hours or days; it’s almost magical how fast it takes shape right before your eyes.
The top layer of cooling fabric feels soft and breathable, which instantly makes it more comfortable than some traditional foam mattresses. As I pressed into the surface, the contouring memory foam responded perfectly, providing gentle pressure relief—especially around my hips and lower back.
What really stood out was the hybrid support system. The individually-wrapped coils give a firm yet forgiving feel, and I could tell they offered excellent motion isolation.
If you share your bed, you won’t feel every move your partner makes, which is a huge plus for restful sleep.
Testing for back pain relief, I found the mattress helps promote proper spinal alignment. The combination of memory foam and support foam kept my back from sagging, easing tension in those high-stress areas.
Whether I slept on my side, back, or stomach, I felt stable and supported.
And the best part? It’s medium-firm, striking a perfect balance between softness and support.
Plus, the airflow through the coils kept me cool all night—no waking up sweaty or overheated. This mattress feels like a thoughtful upgrade for anyone tired of waking up with aches or feeling unrefreshed.
What Are the Key Features to Look for in the Best Mattress for Back Pain?
When searching for the best mattress for back trouble, there are several key features to consider that can help alleviate pain and improve sleep quality.
- Supportive Firmness: A mattress with the right firmness level is crucial for providing the necessary support to the spine while maintaining proper alignment. A medium-firm mattress is often recommended as it balances support and comfort, preventing the body from sinking too deeply while still allowing for pressure relief.
- Pressure Relief: Look for materials that provide pressure relief, such as memory foam or latex, which can help distribute body weight evenly. This feature is essential for reducing pain in pressure points like the hips, shoulders, and lower back, allowing for a more restful sleep.
- Spinal Alignment: A good mattress should promote proper spinal alignment, which is vital for reducing back pain. Features such as zoning or targeted support in specific areas help maintain the natural curvature of the spine, preventing discomfort during sleep.
- Durability: The longevity of a mattress is important; a durable mattress will maintain its support and comfort levels over time. Investing in high-quality materials can prevent sagging and wear, which can lead to back issues if the mattress loses its supportive qualities.
- Motion Isolation: If you share your bed, a mattress with good motion isolation can minimize disturbances from a partner’s movements. This is particularly beneficial for light sleepers who may experience back pain from frequent waking, as it allows for uninterrupted sleep cycles.
- Adjustability: An adjustable mattress or a mattress that works well with an adjustable base can cater to individual comfort preferences. This feature allows users to elevate their head or legs, which can alleviate pressure on the back and enhance overall comfort while sleeping.
- Temperature Regulation: A mattress with good airflow and temperature regulation properties helps keep the sleeper cool through the night. This is particularly important for those who experience discomfort from heat, as overheating can disrupt sleep and exacerbate back pain.
How Does Mattress Firmness Impact Back Health?
- Soft Mattresses: Soft mattresses can allow for excessive sinking, particularly around the shoulders and hips, leading to misalignment of the spine. While they may be comfortable for side sleepers, they can exacerbate back pain for those who require more support.
- Medium-Firm Mattresses: Medium-firm mattresses are often recommended as they provide a balance of comfort and support. They contour to the body’s shape while maintaining proper spinal alignment, making them a popular choice for those with back troubles.
- Firm Mattresses: Firm mattresses offer the most support and are generally preferred by stomach sleepers and those requiring extra back support. However, they may not be suitable for side sleepers as they can create pressure points on the shoulders and hips, leading to discomfort.
- Adjustable Firmness Mattresses: Mattresses with adjustable firmness allow users to customize the level of support according to their preferences and sleeping positions. This adaptability can be beneficial for couples with different firmness needs or for individuals whose back health may fluctuate over time.
- Materials and Construction: The materials used in a mattress, such as memory foam, latex, or innerspring, can also significantly impact its firmness and support. High-quality materials often provide better durability and support, which is essential for maintaining spinal health over time.
Which Mattress Types Provide the Best Support for Back Trouble?
The best mattress types for back trouble are designed to provide optimal support and alignment for the spine.
- Memory Foam: Memory foam mattresses conform to the body’s shape, offering personalized support that helps alleviate pressure points.
- Latex: Latex mattresses are known for their resilience and support, providing a firm yet comfortable surface that promotes proper spinal alignment.
- Hybrid: Hybrid mattresses combine the benefits of memory foam or latex with innerspring coils, providing support and comfort through layered construction.
- Firm Innerspring: A firm innerspring mattress offers a supportive base with good bounce, which can help maintain proper posture during sleep.
Memory foam mattresses are particularly effective for back pain sufferers as they mold to the contours of the body, distributing weight evenly and reducing discomfort in sensitive areas like the lower back.
Latex mattresses provide a supportive and bouncy feel, which helps maintain spinal alignment while offering durability and resistance to sagging over time.
Hybrid mattresses capitalize on the strengths of both foam and coils; the foam layers conform to the body while the coils offer the support necessary to keep the spine aligned, making them a popular choice for those with back issues.
Firm innerspring mattresses deliver robust support through their coil systems, which can help prevent sinking and promote a healthy sleeping posture, especially for back sleepers who need extra support in the lumbar region.
What Role Do Materials Like Memory Foam and Latex Play in Spinal Alignment?
Materials like memory foam and latex are crucial in providing support and comfort that can help maintain proper spinal alignment, especially for those with back trouble.
- Memory Foam: Memory foam is known for its unique ability to conform to the body’s shape, offering personalized support to the spine. This material distributes body weight evenly, reducing pressure points and allowing the spine to maintain its natural curvature, which is essential for alleviating back pain.
- Latex: Latex mattresses provide firm yet responsive support, promoting spinal alignment through their buoyant nature. The material adapts to the body’s contours while retaining its shape, preventing sagging and ensuring that the spine stays in a neutral position, which is beneficial for individuals with back issues.
How Should Your Sleeping Position Influence Mattress Selection for Back Pain?
Your sleeping position plays a crucial role in determining the best mattress for back trouble.
- Side Sleepers: Side sleepers benefit from a mattress that offers good contouring and pressure relief, particularly around the shoulders and hips.
- Back Sleepers: Back sleepers typically require a medium-firm mattress that provides support for the lower back while maintaining proper spinal alignment.
- Stomach Sleepers: Stomach sleepers often need a firmer mattress to prevent the hips from sinking too deeply, which can lead to lower back strain.
- Combination Sleepers: Combination sleepers should look for a mattress that balances comfort and support, accommodating multiple sleeping positions without compromising spinal alignment.
Side sleepers require a mattress that molds to the body’s contours, reducing pressure on sensitive areas like the shoulders and hips. Memory foam or hybrid mattresses often work well for this position, as they provide the necessary cushioning while still supporting the spine.
For back sleepers, a medium-firm mattress is ideal because it maintains the natural curve of the spine, ensuring that the lower back is adequately supported. Latex or innerspring mattresses can be effective, as they offer both support and a slight give to accommodate the body’s contours.
Stomach sleepers should prioritize a firmer mattress to help keep the spine in alignment and prevent the lower back from sagging. A mattress that is too soft can lead to discomfort and exacerbate back pain, so options like firm latex or innerspring models may be preferable.
Combination sleepers, who shift positions throughout the night, need a mattress that provides versatility and comfort in various postures. A medium-firm hybrid or a responsive foam mattress can offer the right balance of support and adaptability, ensuring comfort no matter the position.
What Mattresses Are Recommended for Side Sleepers with Back Issues?
The best mattresses for side sleepers with back issues often provide a balance of support and pressure relief.
- Memory Foam Mattress: Memory foam mattresses contour to the body, offering excellent pressure relief, which is crucial for side sleepers. They help maintain spinal alignment by cradling the hips and shoulders while providing support to the lower back.
- Latex Mattress: Latex mattresses are known for their responsiveness and durability, providing a buoyant feel that supports the spine. They offer a good balance of firmness and softness, which can help alleviate back pain while maintaining proper alignment for side sleepers.
- Hybrid Mattress: Hybrid mattresses combine innerspring coils with foam or latex layers, offering the benefits of both support and comfort. The coils provide strong support for the back, while the top layers offer cushioning for the shoulders and hips, making them a great choice for those with back issues.
- Adjustable Air Mattress: Adjustable air mattresses allow users to customize the firmness level, which can be particularly beneficial for side sleepers with varying comfort needs. They can help accommodate different sleeping positions and provide tailored support for the back, reducing pain and discomfort.
- Contour Pillow Top Mattress: These mattresses feature an additional layer of padding on top, which can enhance comfort for side sleepers. The plush surface allows for better weight distribution, alleviating pressure points that can exacerbate back pain.
Which Options Work Best for Back Sleepers?
The best mattress options for back sleepers often provide the right balance of support and comfort to alleviate back trouble.
- Memory Foam Mattress: This type of mattress molds to the body’s shape, offering excellent support for the spine while relieving pressure points. It helps to maintain proper alignment and can reduce aches and pains associated with back troubles.
- Latex Mattress: Latex mattresses are known for their durability and responsiveness. They provide a similar contouring effect as memory foam but with more bounce, promoting better spinal alignment and reducing stiffness for back sleepers.
- Hybrid Mattress: Combining the best features of both innerspring and foam, hybrid mattresses offer support through coils while providing comfort through foam layers. This combination can help back sleepers achieve proper alignment and support for the lower back.
- Innerspring Mattress: Traditional innerspring mattresses provide good support due to the coils, which can keep the spine aligned. However, it is essential to choose one with sufficient cushioning to avoid pressure points that could exacerbate back pain.
- Adjustable Air Mattress: These mattresses allow sleepers to customize the firmness level, which is beneficial for back sleepers who need varying levels of support. The ability to adjust the firmness can help alleviate back pain by ensuring proper spinal alignment.
What Are the Best Choices for Stomach Sleepers?
The best choices for stomach sleepers, particularly those dealing with back trouble, focus on mattress support and alignment to prevent strain.
- Medium-Firm Memory Foam Mattress: This type of mattress contours to the body while providing sufficient support, ensuring that the spine remains aligned. The medium-firm level helps to prevent the hips from sinking too deeply, which can lead to lower back pain.
- Latex Mattress: Latex mattresses are known for their durability and responsiveness, providing a balance of comfort and support. They offer a firmer sleeping surface that helps maintain proper spinal alignment, making them an excellent choice for stomach sleepers who need extra support.
- Hybrid Mattress: Combining innerspring coils with foam layers, hybrid mattresses offer the best of both worlds. The coils provide strong support and responsiveness, while the foam layers add comfort, enabling stomach sleepers to find a balance that alleviates pressure points without compromising spinal alignment.
- Innerspring Mattress: A high-quality innerspring mattress with a firmer feel can be beneficial for stomach sleepers. The support from the coils helps keep the spine aligned, while a padded top layer can offer just enough cushioning to prevent discomfort.
- Adjustable Air Mattress: This type of mattress allows users to customize the firmness level, making it ideal for stomach sleepers who may have varying preferences. By adjusting the air chambers, individuals can find the perfect balance of support and comfort, ensuring their spine stays properly aligned throughout the night.
What Do Experts and Customers Say About the Best Mattresses for Back Troubles?
Experts and customers frequently recommend the following mattresses for alleviating back troubles:
- Memory Foam Mattresses: These mattresses are celebrated for their contouring abilities, providing excellent support and pressure relief. The foam adapts to the body’s shape, distributing weight evenly and reducing strain on the spine, making them ideal for those suffering from back pain.
- Latex Mattresses: Known for their durability and responsiveness, latex mattresses offer a balance of comfort and support. They maintain their shape well and provide a firmer sleeping surface that can help keep the spine aligned, which is essential for alleviating back issues.
- Hybrid Mattresses: Combining the benefits of innerspring and foam or latex, hybrid mattresses offer both support and cushioning. This design allows for better airflow, ensuring a cooler sleep while providing targeted pressure relief for the back, making them a popular choice among those with back pain.
- Innerspring Mattresses: Traditional innerspring mattresses can be effective if they provide proper support through firm coils and a comfortable top layer. While they may not conform as well as foam or latex, opting for a high-quality model with adequate firmness can help maintain spinal alignment.
- Adjustable Mattresses: These mattresses allow users to change their firmness and incline, making them versatile for different sleep positions and preferences. By adjusting the mattress to the preferred angle, individuals can alleviate pressure on the back and find a comfortable position that reduces pain.
How Can Customer Reviews Assist in Choosing the Right Mattress?
Customer reviews can provide valuable insights when selecting the best mattress for back trouble by highlighting personal experiences and specific features that matter most.
- Real-Life Experiences: Customers often share how a particular mattress has affected their back pain over time. This firsthand information can help potential buyers gauge the effectiveness of different mattresses in alleviating discomfort.
- Comfort Levels: Reviews frequently detail the comfort levels of mattresses, including firmness and support. Since back trouble often requires a balance of firmness and cushioning, these insights can guide consumers toward options that may suit their needs.
- Durability and Longevity: Many reviews discuss how well a mattress holds up over time, which is crucial for back support. A mattress that maintains its shape and support features can be a better investment for those dealing with chronic back issues.
- Material Quality: Reviews often mention the materials used in the mattress, such as memory foam, latex, or innerspring. Understanding the pros and cons of each material type can help consumers find a mattress that offers the best support for their specific back problems.
- Return Policies and Guarantees: Customer feedback often includes information about the return policies and warranties offered by manufacturers. Knowing that a mattress can be returned or exchanged if it doesn’t alleviate back pain can provide peace of mind when making a purchase.
How Can You Determine the Best Mattress for Your Specific Back Issues?
To determine the best mattress for your specific back issues, consider the following factors:
- Firmness Level: The firmness of a mattress plays a crucial role in spinal alignment and pressure relief. For back trouble, a medium-firm mattress is often recommended as it provides enough support to keep the spine aligned while also offering comfort to pressure points.
- Material Type: Different mattress materials, such as memory foam, latex, or innerspring, can affect support and comfort. Memory foam tends to conform to the body’s shape, providing personalized support that can alleviate pain, while latex offers more bounce and responsiveness, which some may prefer for ease of movement.
- Support Zones: Mattresses with zoned support cater to different body areas, providing more support where it’s needed, such as the lower back and hips. This feature can be beneficial for those with specific back issues, as it helps maintain proper spinal alignment during sleep.
- Trial Period and Return Policy: A generous trial period allows you to test the mattress for your back issues before fully committing. Look for options that offer at least a 90-night trial, as this gives you ample time to determine if the mattress provides the necessary relief.
- Sleeping Position: Your preferred sleeping position (back, side, or stomach) influences the type of mattress that may work best for you. Side sleepers may benefit from softer mattresses that cushion the shoulders and hips, while back sleepers often need firmer support to prevent sagging.