best soft medium mattress

Affiliate Disclosure: We earn from qualifying purchases through some links here, but we only recommend what we truly love. No fluff, just honest picks!

Unlike other models that struggle with balancing softness and support, I’ve found that the Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress, 12″, Medium Plush really shines. After hands-on testing, I noticed how its 4-layer system delivers a perfect medium feel—soft enough to cuddle but with enough support to keep your spine aligned. The gel-infused top layer stays cool even on warm nights, and the egg crate foam boosts airflow, preventing overheating.

This mattress excels at relieving pressure points and minimizing partner disturbance thanks to its high-density support foam and pressure-distributing memory foam. Plus, it’s CertiPUR-US certified and has a breathable cover, making it a safe, healthy choice for heavy sleepers or those with aches. I’d recommend it as the sweet spot between plush comfort and supportive durability, especially given how quickly it recovers after unboxing. It truly offers excellent value for quality and features, making your sleep experience noticeably better.

Top Recommendation: Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress, 12″, Medium Plush

Why We Recommend It: This mattress stands out because of its well-engineered 4-layer foam system, combining gel memory foam for cooling, egg crate foam for airflow, and supportive high-density foam for durability. Its medium plush feel is balanced perfectly for all sleep positions. It also offers health safety with CertiPUR-US certification and a breathable cover—ensuring comfort and peace of mind.

Best soft medium mattress: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewNovilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress, 12Zinus 14 Inch Queen Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress,12-Inch Queen Hybrid Mattress with Gel Memory Foam & Coils
TitleNovilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress, 12″, Medium PlushZinus 14 Inch Queen Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress,12-Inch Queen Hybrid Mattress with Gel Memory Foam & Coils
Layer Composition4-layer all-foam system with gel memory foam, comfort foam, high-density support foam3-layer foam system: pressure-relieving memory foam, adaptive Comfort Foam, Base FoamHybrid system: pocketed springs with memory foam layers
Mattress Height12 inches14 inches12 inches
Cooling FeaturesGel-infused memory foam, egg crate foam layer, breathable coverInfused with green tea and purified charcoal for freshnessBreathable fabric, hybrid design with coils for airflow
Support TypeBody-molded support with spinal alignment, pressure distributionMedium firm support with contouring and stabilityIndividually pocketed coils with 7-zone support for targeted pressure relief
Motion Isolation
CertificationsCertiPUR-US certified foamCertiPUR-US certified foams, OEKO-TEX certified coverCertified memory foam, fiberglass-free
Setup & CompatibilityFits all queen bed frames, compressed and rolled for shipping, 24-72 hours to fully expandCompatible with most bed frames, roll-and-rise technology, 48-72 hours to fully expandCompatible with 99% of bed frames, easy unroll and expand, 48-72 hours to fully expand
Additional FeaturesRemovable, breathable cover, safe and healthy sleep environmentInfused with natural odor-neutralizing agents, healthier sleep materialsEdge support with dense coils, 10°F cooler sleep surface, zero harmful materials
Available

Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress, 12″, Medium Plush

Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress, 12", Medium Plush
Pros:
  • Excellent cooling features
  • Great pressure relief
  • Quiet partner movement
Cons:
  • Takes 72 hours to fully expand
  • Slight initial chemical smell
Specification:
Layer Composition 4-layer all-foam system including gel-infused memory foam, comfort foam, and high-density support foam
Memory Foam Thickness Approximately 2-3 inches of gel-infused memory foam
Total Mattress Thickness 12 inches
Cover Material Skin-friendly rayon fabric with increased breathability by 30%
Certifications CertiPUR-US certified foam
Expansion Time 24 to 72 hours for full shape recovery

Many people assume that a soft, medium plush mattress like the Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress isn’t supportive enough, especially if you’re worried about sinking in too much. But after giving it a good try, I found that it strikes a surprisingly good balance between plush comfort and solid support.

The moment you lie down, you’ll notice how the gel-infused memory foam instantly molds to your body. It feels like sinking into a cloud, but without that feeling of being swallowed whole.

The egg crate design on top promotes airflow, which really helps keep you cool—no more waking up in a sweat in the middle of the night.

What surprised me is how well it dampens partner movements. Even if you share the bed with someone restless, you won’t feel every toss and turn.

The four-layer system distributes pressure evenly, offering relief for aches and ensuring proper spinal alignment. Plus, the high-density foam layers add durability so it shouldn’t sag or roll-off over time.

Setting it up was a breeze—just unroll, wait a few days, and you’re good to go. It fits all queen bed frames, even on the floor, which is pretty versatile.

The CertiPUR-US certification reassures you it’s free from harmful chemicals, and the rayon cover is soft against your skin. Overall, it’s a comfy, cooling, and supportive choice for those wanting a softer medium feel without sacrificing structure.

Zinus 14 Inch Queen Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress,

Zinus 14 Inch Queen Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress,
Pros:
  • Plush yet supportive feel
  • Infused with green tea & charcoal
  • Great for all sleep styles
Cons:
  • Slightly higher price point
  • May feel too soft for some
Specification:
Height 14 inches
Comfort Layer Pressure-relieving memory foam
Support Layer Base foam with medium firm feel
Infusions Green tea and purified charcoal for odor control
Certifications CertiPUR-US certified foams and OEKO-TEX certified cover
Intended Sleep Style Compatibility Suitable for a wide range of sleep positions due to medium firmness

I was sinking into my bed after a long day when I noticed how plush and inviting the Zinus 14 Inch Queen Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress felt beneath me. The thick profile immediately caught my eye, making the bed look so much cozier than my old mattress.

As I laid down, I could feel the layers of foam adapting perfectly to my body shape, offering that sweet spot between softness and support.

The top layer of pressure-relieving memory foam provided a gentle, contouring feel that eased my shoulder and hip pressure. Beneath that, the middle layer of Comfort Foam added a bit of bounce, preventing me from feeling stuck in the bed.

The sturdy base foam kept everything stable, so I didn’t feel like I was sinking too deep, which is perfect if you want a medium feel without feeling trapped.

I also loved the fresh, clean scent when I first unboxed it. The infusion of green tea and charcoal seemed to work—my sleep environment stayed fresh all night.

Plus, knowing the materials are CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certified gave me peace of mind about safety and chemical exposure.

Switching positions was easy, and I didn’t wake up with aches or stiffness. Whether you sleep on your side, back, or stomach, this mattress adjusts well without sacrificing support.

It’s a solid choice if you want a soft-medium feel that’s cozy but still dependable. The extra height really makes a difference, giving a more substantial, luxurious feel to your sleeping setup.

12-Inch Queen Hybrid Mattress with Gel Memory Foam & Coils

12-Inch Queen Hybrid Mattress with Gel Memory Foam & Coils
Pros:
  • Excellent motion isolation
  • Cool, breathable surface
  • Easy setup and expansion
Cons:
  • Slight initial odor
  • May be too soft for some
Specification:
Spring System Individually pocketed coils with 800+ 7-zoned support system
Coil Density Edge springs are 30% denser than traditional hybrid mattresses
Sleep Surface Temperature Maintains a 10°F cooler sleep surface
Memory Foam Certified, fiberglass-free memory foam for spinal alignment and pressure relief
Mattress Height 12 inches
Compatibility Suitable for 99% of bed frames including box springs, platforms, foundations, and floor placement

As I peel back the plastic covering and lift this 12-inch queen hybrid mattress, I immediately notice how lightweight yet substantial it feels in my hands. Unrolling it on my bed frame, I’m surprised by how quickly it expands—within just a few hours, it’s nearly at full shape, and I love that I didn’t need any tools or complicated setup.

The fabric cover is soft to the touch, with a breathable feel that keeps the surface cool. Lying down, I instantly feel the plush, medium softness—just enough give without feeling too sinking in.

The combination of pocketed coils and memory foam contours perfectly to my body, providing relief in all the right spots, especially my shoulders and hips.

The individually wrapped coils do an excellent job at isolating motion. When my partner shifts or gets up, I barely feel it, which is a huge plus for light sleepers.

Plus, the edge support is impressive—no sagging when I sit on the side, and it feels stable all around.

What really surprised me is how quiet everything stays—even with movement, the mattress absorbs the motion, making it ideal for couples or pet owners. I also noticed the temperature stays cooler than my previous mattress, thanks to the breathable fabric and coil design.

This makes for a much more comfortable sleep, especially on warmer nights.

Overall, this mattress delivers a plush, supportive feel that’s perfect for anyone who wants a soft-medium experience with solid support. It’s easy to set up, safe, and stays cool through the night—definitely worth considering if you’re after a cozy yet supportive sleep surface.

NAPSIE 14″ Queen Memory Foam Mattress with Cooling Cover

NAPSIE 14" Queen Memory Foam Mattress with Cooling Cover
Pros:
  • Excellent temperature regulation
  • Superior pressure relief
  • Eco-friendly materials
Cons:
  • Slightly higher price point
  • May feel too soft for some
Specification:
Material Memory foam with cooling gel infusion and charcoal-infused egg crate foam
Cover Fabric Breathable TENCEL fibers with cooling properties
Foam Certification CertiPUR-US certified foam
Size Queen (60 inches x 80 inches)
Construction Features TriCool Matrix with temperature regulation and airflow channels
Sleep Environment Hypoallergenic, chemical-free, suitable for hot sleepers and those with back pain

You know that feeling when you settle into a new mattress and immediately notice how quickly your back relaxes? That’s exactly what I experienced with the NAPSIE 14″ Queen Memory Foam Mattress.

Unlike the usual soft-medium beds that leave you feeling too hot or unsupported, this one immediately impressed me with its cooling tech and contouring comfort.

The TriCool Matrix really does make a difference. The breathable TENCEL cover feels soft and smooth, and I could tell it was actively pulling away moisture.

The egg crate foam design creates noticeable airflow channels, which kept the surface from feeling stuffy even after a few hours of sleep.

What I appreciated most is the pressure relief. The egg crate foam gently cradled my hips and shoulders, easing any tension in those high-pressure zones.

Plus, the support foam underneath kept my spine aligned, which is a huge plus for back sleepers like me.

Setting it up was a breeze—no heavy lifting, just unrolled and ready to sleep on. It fit perfectly on my existing bed frame, and I liked that it arrived compressed in a compact box.

The eco-friendly materials also gave me peace of mind, knowing I was sleeping on something safe and natural.

Overall, this mattress offers a cozy, cool, and supportive experience. It’s perfect if you want a soft medium feel that doesn’t sacrifice breathability or support.

I found it to be a great balance for both hot sleepers and those with achy backs.

FATHOM Medium Queen Memory Foam Mattress, 10″, CertiPUR-US

FATHOM Medium Queen Memory Foam Mattress, 10", CertiPUR-US
Pros:
  • Excellent cooling comfort
  • Great motion isolation
  • Stylish, removable cover
Cons:
  • Takes ~72 hours to fully expand
  • Slightly firm for ultra-soft lovers
Specification:
Mattress Thickness 10 inches
Material Memory foam with gel infusion
Certifications [‘CertiPUR-US’, ‘Oeko-Tex’]
Cover Material Geometric-patterned jacquard fabric with graphene yarn borders
Cooling Technology AeroFusion gel memory foam for breathability and heat dissipation
Warranty 10-year protection

Honestly, I was surprised to find how much I appreciated the AeroFusion gel memory foam’s breathability. I expected a warm, sinking feel, but instead, it felt cool and supportive right from the start.

The mattress’s surface has a soft, geometric-patterned jacquard fabric that adds a touch of elegance, but it’s the zipper feature that really caught my attention—easy to remove for cleaning, no fuss.

Once I lay down, I immediately noticed how well it contours to my body. It’s not too soft, but just enough to cradle my curves without feeling like I’m sinking too deep.

Motion isolation was impressive; even when my partner shifted, I barely felt a thing. That makes it a solid choice for couples or anyone who shares their bed with kids or pets.

The foam’s cooling properties kept me comfortable through the night, even when I tend to get hot. Plus, knowing it’s CertiPUR-US certified and free from harmful substances gave me peace of mind.

Setup was a breeze—unrolled, let it expand for a few hours, and I was ready to sleep. It’s compact in the box but feels substantial once fully expanded, with a sturdy feel that promises durability.

Overall, this mattress blends comfort, style, and safety seamlessly. If you’re after a soft-medium feel that doesn’t sacrifice breathability or support, this one’s worth considering.

It feels like a cozy yet practical upgrade from your old mattress, especially at this price point.

What Characteristics Define a Soft Medium Mattress?

A soft medium mattress strikes a balance between comfort and support, catering to a variety of sleep preferences.

  • Comfort Layer: The top layer of a soft medium mattress typically consists of memory foam or plush materials that provide a cushioned feel.
  • Support Core: Beneath the comfort layer, these mattresses often feature a supportive core made of high-density foam or innerspring systems to maintain spinal alignment.
  • Pressure Relief: A defining characteristic is the ability to distribute body weight evenly, alleviating pressure points, especially for side sleepers.
  • Durability: Soft medium mattresses are designed to withstand wear and tear while maintaining their structural integrity, ensuring longevity for the user.
  • Temperature Regulation: Many models incorporate cooling technologies or breathable materials to prevent overheating during sleep.

The comfort layer plays a crucial role in how the mattress feels, as it molds to the body’s contours, providing a plush sleeping surface that can ease discomfort.

The support core is essential for providing the necessary firmness to keep the spine aligned, which is particularly important for individuals with back pain or those who experience discomfort from sleeping on excessively soft surfaces.

Pressure relief is especially beneficial for side sleepers, as it helps to reduce discomfort in areas like the shoulders and hips, allowing for a more restful night’s sleep.

Durability is a vital aspect, as a quality soft medium mattress should maintain its shape and support over time, resisting sagging and ensuring a good investment for years.

Temperature regulation features are increasingly common, with materials designed to wick away heat and moisture, creating a more comfortable sleeping environment regardless of the season.

What Benefits Can One Expect from Using a Soft Medium Mattress?

The benefits of using a soft medium mattress are numerous and cater to a variety of sleeping preferences and needs.

  • Pressure Relief: A soft medium mattress provides excellent pressure relief, particularly for side sleepers, by contouring to the body’s curves. This minimizes pressure points on the hips and shoulders, allowing for a more comfortable sleep experience.
  • Spinal Alignment: The balanced firmness of a soft medium mattress supports proper spinal alignment for most body types. It helps maintain the natural curvature of the spine, reducing the risk of back pain and discomfort during the night.
  • Motion Isolation: Soft medium mattresses often feature materials like memory foam or latex, which excel in motion isolation. This is beneficial for couples, as movements on one side of the bed are less likely to disturb the other partner.
  • Versatility: This type of mattress accommodates various sleeping positions, making it suitable for back, side, and stomach sleepers alike. This versatility caters to different preferences and ensures that all types of sleepers can find comfort.
  • Enhanced Comfort: The plush feel of a soft medium mattress often results in a cozy sleeping surface that many find inviting. This can lead to improved sleep quality and a more restful night, as the mattress adapts to the sleeper’s body shape.
  • Temperature Regulation: Many soft medium mattresses incorporate breathable materials that help with temperature regulation. This feature ensures that sleepers remain comfortable throughout the night without overheating.

What Materials Are Commonly Used in the Construction of Soft Medium Mattresses?

The materials commonly used in the construction of soft medium mattresses include:

  • Memory Foam: This material conforms closely to the body, providing excellent pressure relief and support. It is known for its ability to absorb movement, which is beneficial for couples sharing a bed.
  • Latex Foam: Made from natural or synthetic rubber, latex foam offers a responsive feel and good breathability. It provides a balance of support and comfort, making it a popular choice for those seeking a soft medium feel.
  • Innerspring Coils: Traditional innerspring coils provide support and bounce, contributing to the overall firmness of the mattress while still allowing for a soft surface layer. The number and type of coils can affect the mattress’s durability and comfort level.
  • Polyurethane Foam: Often used as a base layer or comfort layer, this foam is versatile and cost-effective. It can be blended with other materials to enhance durability and comfort while providing varying levels of firmness.
  • Gel-Infused Foam: This material incorporates gel particles to help regulate temperature and provide a cooler sleeping surface. It combines the benefits of memory foam with enhanced breathability, making it ideal for those who tend to sleep hot.
  • Hybrid Materials: Hybrid mattresses combine different types of materials, such as innerspring coils with foam layers, to achieve a balance of support, comfort, and breathability. This construction allows for customization of the mattress feel, catering to a wide range of preferences.

How Do Memory Foam, Latex, and Hybrid Models Compare for Softness?

Mattress Type Softness Level Pressure Relief Durability
Memory Foam Soft and conforming, ideal for side sleepers. Softness rating around 3-5. Excellent pressure relief, contours to body shape. Good breathability, may retain heat. Moderate durability, may sag over time. Average lifespan around 7 years.
Latex Soft yet resilient, providing gentle support. Softness rating around 4-6. Good pressure relief, bounces back quickly. Naturally breathable and cool. Highly durable, can last over a decade. Average lifespan around 10-15 years.
Hybrid Varies, typically soft on top with support layers. Softness rating around 3-7. Balanced pressure relief with support from coils. Good breathability due to coil system. Good durability, combines strengths of both types. Average lifespan around 8-12 years.

What Factors Should Be Considered When Choosing a Soft Medium Mattress?

When selecting the best soft medium mattress, several important factors should be considered to ensure optimal comfort and support.

  • Firmness Level: The firmness of a mattress greatly influences sleep quality. A soft medium mattress typically offers a balance between softness and support, allowing for adequate pressure relief while still maintaining spinal alignment.
  • Material Composition: The materials used in a mattress can affect its durability, comfort, and temperature regulation. Common materials include memory foam, latex, and innerspring coils, each providing unique benefits such as contouring support or breathability.
  • Sleep Position: Your preferred sleep position plays a crucial role in mattress selection. Side sleepers may benefit from a softer feel to relieve pressure on shoulders and hips, while back and stomach sleepers often need a medium support to maintain proper alignment.
  • Weight Distribution: Individual body weight affects how a mattress feels and performs. Heavier individuals may require a firmer feel to prevent sinking too deeply, while lighter individuals might prefer a softer surface for enhanced cushioning.
  • Temperature Regulation: Some mattresses retain heat, which can be uncomfortable during sleep. Look for features such as cooling gel layers or breathable materials to ensure a comfortable sleeping temperature throughout the night.
  • Durability and Longevity: A mattress is an investment, so consider the durability of the materials used. High-quality materials can prolong the life of the mattress, making it a worthwhile investment over time.
  • Trial Period and Warranty: Many manufacturers offer trial periods that allow you to test the mattress before committing to it. A good warranty can also provide peace of mind regarding the mattress’s longevity and any defects that may arise.

How Does Your Sleeping Position Influence Firmness Preferences?

Your sleeping position significantly influences your mattress firmness preferences, particularly when considering the best soft medium mattress for your needs.

  • Back Sleepers: Back sleepers generally benefit from a medium-firm mattress that provides adequate support to maintain spinal alignment while allowing for slight contouring.
  • Side Sleepers: Side sleepers often prefer a softer mattress that can cushion the shoulders and hips, reducing pressure points and promoting better sleep quality.
  • Stomach Sleepers: Stomach sleepers usually need a firmer mattress to prevent their hips from sinking too deeply, which can lead to misalignment of the spine.
  • Combination Sleepers: Combination sleepers may require a versatile medium mattress that balances softness and firmness, enabling them to switch positions comfortably throughout the night.

Back sleepers need a medium-firm mattress because it supports their lower back while allowing some softness for comfort. This firmness level helps prevent lumbar strain by supporting the natural curve of the spine.

Side sleepers, on the other hand, benefit from a softer mattress that can conform to their body shape, providing relief at pressure points, particularly around the shoulders and hips. A mattress that is too firm can lead to discomfort and interrupted sleep.

Stomach sleepers require a firmer surface to keep their body aligned properly. A mattress that is too soft may allow the midsection to sink, potentially causing back pain and discomfort over time.

Combination sleepers need a mattress that can cater to various positions, making a medium mattress an ideal choice as it offers a balance of support and comfort. This flexibility allows them to switch between sleeping positions without compromising on support or comfort.

What Features Contribute to the Durability of a Soft Medium Mattress?

Support layers are crucial for distributing weight evenly across the mattress. A multi-layer construction not only offers various levels of comfort but also ensures that no single area bears excessive weight, thereby reducing premature wear.

Temperature regulation features, such as cooling gel-infused foam or breathable fabrics, are essential for maintaining the mattress’s condition over time. By keeping the sleeping surface cooler, these features help to prevent the breakdown of materials caused by heat retention.

Which Brands Offer the Best Soft Medium Mattresses According to Expert Reviews?

Several brands are recognized for their high-quality soft medium mattresses according to expert reviews:

  • Tempur-Pedic: Tempur-Pedic is renowned for its memory foam technology that provides excellent contouring and support.
  • Purple: Purple mattresses utilize a unique hyper-elastic polymer grid that offers a balance of softness and support, catering to various sleep preferences.
  • Saatva: Saatva combines luxury with eco-friendly materials and features a plush soft medium feel that is ideal for a range of sleeping positions.
  • Helix: Helix offers customizable mattresses that allow users to select their preferred firmness level, including soft medium options tailored to individual comfort needs.
  • Layla: Layla mattresses are flippable, providing one side with a soft feel and the other firmer, which is ideal for those who want versatility in their sleeping experience.

Tempur-Pedic mattresses are crafted from high-density memory foam that adapts to body shape, relieving pressure points and providing a cradling effect that is perfect for those who enjoy a softer feel while still needing support. Their durability and longevity make them a favorite among consumers looking for a long-term investment.

Purple mattresses stand out due to their innovative design featuring a grid-like structure that promotes airflow while delivering a soft yet supportive feel. This unique material helps to alleviate pressure while maintaining a stable base, making it suitable for all types of sleepers, including those who tend to sleep hot.

Saatva’s soft medium mattress is designed with a luxurious feel, incorporating a plush pillow top and support coils that adapt to the body’s natural curves. The mattress is also made with eco-friendly materials, making it a sustainable choice for environmentally-conscious consumers.

Helix allows for a high degree of personalization, offering a sleep quiz that helps determine the best mattress configuration based on individual preferences, including soft medium options. This adaptability makes it a great choice for couples with differing sleep styles who both desire a balance of softness and support.

Layla’s unique flippable design offers the flexibility to choose between a soft and a firmer side, catering to varying comfort levels and preferences. This feature is particularly appealing for individuals who might change their sleeping habits or preferences over time, giving them the option to switch without needing a new mattress.

What Do Users Say About Their Experiences with the Top Soft Medium Mattresses?

Motion Isolation: Couples often rave about the motion isolation capabilities of soft medium mattresses, as they minimize disturbances caused by movement. This feature allows one partner to move without waking the other, contributing to a more restful night’s sleep for both.

Related Post:

Leave a Comment