Best Cooling Mattresses, and How They Work
How Does a Cooling Mattress Work?
One of the most common reasons for a too-hot mattress is poor breathability; whether in foam or innersprings, too much density can trap in heat and humidity, creating a stuffy, uncomfortable feel. To combat the problem of overheating, many mattresses are now designed to maximize air circulation between the sleeper and the mattress’s surface, as well as within the inside of the mattress itself.
A memory foam mattress with an open cell foam design means that amidst the packed memory foam layers are micro open-air passageways, allowing heat to pass through and the mattress to breathe.
Best Open Cell Foam Mattresses:
The Tempur-Pedic Luxebreeze
Tempur-Pedic’s Luxebreeze is crafted from Pure Cool Plus material, an Advanced Relief-infused technology designed specifically to deliver more cooling support than other nationally advertised memory foam products.
The Sealy Posturepedic Highpoint Hybrid Firm
From Sealy’s luxurious Posturepedic collection, the Highpoint Hybrid Firm combines the exclusive memory foam technology with individually wrapped coil technology for both proper support and ventilation.
Best Gel Foam Mattresses:
Infusing gel into memory foam mattresses is one of the most popular technologies mattress brands use to prevent overheating, but it actually has less to do with air circulation and more to do with the cooling properties of gel. Because gel is part liquid, it does not easily retain heat. Compared to a foam mattress, a gel foam mattress helps to counteract a hot environment, making it easier to stay cool, comfortable and asleep for longer periods of time.
The Ghostbed Luxe Foam
Ghostbed’s advanced gel foam and layer technology merges highly dense, cooling comfort with 13" of seven jam-packed zones and a support core of natural materials – perfect for those who prefer the feel of memory foam.
The Ghostbed Classic Foam
The key ingredient of Ghostbed’s new Classic Gel Foam mattress is the luxurious aerated latex core layer, which provides supportive comfort, a more breathable sleep setting and an an all-around lighter, airier and cooler sleep.
Best Copper Gel Foam Mattress:
Copper-infused foam for cooling comfort is not just an intriguing idea – it actually works. In a mattress, copper is naturally heat-conductive, meaning it is quick to absorb and transfer heat away from the body, helping to keep mattress temperature level cool and balanced.
The Revive Hawaii Mattress
How to Make a Memory Foam Mattress Cooler
Memory foam mattresses tend to sleep hot, which can affect sleep. To cool off when the temps get uncomfortable, try using less bedding, a memory foam mattress with cooling properties built in (see tips above!) and sheet material such as linen or bamboo. You can also try placing the mattress on an airier base, such as a slatted platform or box spring, to help encourage circulation.
A Note on Fabric Breathability
One final thing to look for when considering a cooler mattress is the fabric the mattress is made of. The fabric is the material stretched over the surface of the mattress; it's the material you touch when the sheets and bedding are taken off.
New innovations in mattress fabric allow for higher breathability, or airflow, within the mattress. Due to the way the fabric is knit, what the fabric is made of (common breathable materials include bamboo and tencel) and how light/thin (read: less thick and stuffy) the fabric is, the overall mattress experience becomes cooler, lighter and more comfortable.
Quick Tips: Cooling Guide for Hot Sleepers
Sleeping hot ruins sleep quality. If you tend to overheat or live in a warm climate, keep these key material facts in mind when choosing a bed:
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Gel-Infused Foam: Traditional memory foam can trap body heat. Infusing it with cooling gel creates a thermal conductor that actively draws warmth away from your body when you first lie down.
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Airflow is Key: Innerspring and hybrid mattresses are excellent for warm climates. The open space between the steel coils allows heat to escape and fresh air to circulate freely.
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The Comfort Level Factor: Ultra-plush mattresses allow you to sink deeply, which can trap heat around your body. Firmer mattresses keep you floating on top of the bed, maximizing natural airflow.
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Cooling Effectiveness: Built-in cooling fabrics and gel layers (passive cooling) are highly effective at preventing heat buildup. For extreme temperature control, advanced smart beds use active airflow technology to continuously regulate temperature all night long.
Common Questions About Mattress Cooling Technology
How can I tell if a mattress will actually keep me cool at night?
Look for mattresses that explicitly mention advanced cooling features like gel-infused memory foam, breathable covers made from Tencel or cotton, and innovative constructions that promote airflow, such as hybrid designs with pocketed coils. These materials and designs work together to dissipate heat and prevent heat buildup, ensuring a more comfortable sleep. At Living Spaces, we offer a wide selection of mattresses with these cutting-edge cooling technologies designed to suit every sleep preference.
What are the best materials for a mattress if I tend to overheat?
For hot sleepers, prioritize mattresses made with open-cell foam, gel-infused memory foam, natural latex, or those featuring hybrid designs with innerspring coils. These materials offer superior breathability and heat dissipation compared to traditional dense memory foams. Explore our collection at Living Spaces to find the perfect combination of comfort and cooling for a truly restful night.
Is mattress cooling technology a gimmick, or does it make a real difference in sleep quality?
Mattress cooling technology is far from a gimmick; it can significantly enhance sleep quality by preventing overheating, which often leads to tossing and turning. By maintaining a more consistent and comfortable body temperature, these technologies promote deeper, more restorative sleep cycles. Discover the tangible benefits of advanced cooling at Living Spaces and experience a cooler, more refreshing sleep.
How does the type of mattress foundation affect its cooling capabilities?
The foundation plays a crucial role in a mattress's ability to stay cool by allowing for proper airflow beneath it. Opt for slatted bases, adjustable bases with ventilation, or foundations that allow air to circulate freely, rather than solid platforms that can trap heat. Living Spaces offers a variety of bases designed to maximize your mattress's cooling potential, ensuring optimal comfort.
Are there different levels of "cooling" in mattresses, and how do I choose the right one for me?
Yes, cooling technology varies from subtle improvements to advanced temperature regulation systems. Consider your personal sleep temperature, the climate you live in, and the specific features like phase-change materials or proprietary cooling fabrics. Our sleep experts at Living Spaces can help guide you through our range of cooling mattresses to find the ideal solution for your unique needs.