Table of Contents
The best mattress for overweight people can withstand the added stress of increased compression. A heavy body weight puts more stress on the components. The spring coil and foam comfort layers can fail prematurely if they cannot withstand repeated compression. That’s why the best mattresses for overweight people are durable and comfortable. You don’t want a mattress that will start to sag after a few months.
The best mattresses for overweight people are made with natural latex foam. Natural latex foam is much more durable than polyurethane foam and can last up to 3X longer. I have seen a video of a 50-year-old natural latex mattress showing no signs of sagging or indentations. Natural latex mattresses are the best for overweight people because they won’t sag or develop indentations like polyurethane mattresses.
Polyurethane simply doesn’t last
This is a relatively new-looking hybrid mattress that has developed monstrous valleys. The comfort layers are made with polyurethane, which is prone to sagging. Natural latex does not sag in like polyurethane, even when used by a heavy person.
Polyurethane foam (gel foam, memory foam, etc.) is the most commonly used foam in the mattress manufacturing industry. It looks great and is comfortable at first, but in some cases, it can fail very rapidly.
Manufacturers that use polyurethane tend to create a lofty looking quilted pillowtop. This is like eye candy for the buyer, as the surface looks light and comfortable. However, low-density foam can fail within a very short period.
Test your mattress for indentations by putting a straight edge across the surface. A shower pole or broomstick can be used to take the measurement.
Typically, the top layer of such pillowtop mattresses is made with very low-density polyurethane foam that tends to sag, sometimes after a few months of use. Dips and indentations in the mattress can lead to uncomfortable sleep and joint & muscle pain.
The best mattress for an overweight person must be comfortable, supportive, and durable. So if you are in this weight category, we suggest ruling out mattresses with a polyurethane comfort layer because they are prone to developing indentations and body impressions within the first few years of use.
What weight is considered heavyweight?
You can calculate your BMI (body mass index) to determine if you are overweight. If your BMI is 30 or higher, you fall into the obese range. The CDC provides a BMI calculator.
A high BMI might not mean that you are a heavyweight person. In boxing, 200 pounds or over is considered heavyweight. As for mattress type selection, if you are 230 pounds or above, we recommend selecting a mattress from the hybrid (spring coils) category. An all-latex mattress (no spring coils) is also a good option, but it needs to be at least 12″ inches thick to withstand the increased compression without bottoming out.
Factors That Make A Good Mattress For Heavy People
- Durability
- Thickness
- Hybrid construction (spring coils + natural latex comfort layer).
- Breathability
- Edge support
- Zoned layers
- No toxic VOCs or fire-retardant chemicals
Best Mattresses For Overweight Person
| Model & Brand | Visual of mattress | Check latest price | Mattress Type | Thickness (inches) | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Luxury Bliss by Plush Beds |  | Get an extra 100$ off! Apply coupon code NMF100OFF at checkout. | Hybrid | 12 | Read the full review |
| Hybrid Latex Mattress by Brentwood Home |  | | Hybrid | 12 | Read the full review. |
| Serenity Spring by Savvy Rest |  | | Hybrid | 12 | |
| Organic Luxury Hybrid Mattress by Awara |  | | Hybrid | 13 | |
| Avocado Green with pillow top by Avocado Green |  | Save anywhere from $100 - $200 off the Avocado Green Pillowtop. Apply code: NATURALMF at checkout.  | Hybrid | 13 | Read the full review. |
| Vegan Pillowtop by Avocado |  | Save anywhere from $100 - $200 off the Avocado Vegan Pillowtop. Apply code: NATURALMF at checkout. | Hybrid | 13 | |
| Select Sleep Hybrid by Sleep EZ (2-in-1 flippable mattress) |  | | Hybrid | 14 | Learn more about the SleepEZ Select Sleep mattress. |
| Natural Mattress by Sleep EZ (7,9,10,13 inches) |  | | Latex Core | 13 | Learn more about the SleepEZ Natural mattress. |
| Organic Mattress by Sleep EZ (7,9,10,13 inches) | | | Latex Core | 13 | Learn More About the SleepEZ Organic mattress |
Criteria for Choosing the best mattress for heavy people
1. Durability
Latex mattresses have the longest lifespan among all other types of mattresses. The resiliency of the natural latex foam comfort layer and the wool fire barrier are two factors that give these types of mattresses such amazing longevity.
A natural latex mattress typically lasts 20-25 years, whereas a polyurethane mattress lasts anywhere from 5 to 10 years. Because of the low-density foam and synthetic fiber used in the top layer of some polyurethane mattresses, some will start to sag in as little as 12 months. While the spring layer and cover may still be good, the comfort foam layer fails first, compromising the mattress’s comfort and support.
The best mattress for overweight people is the one that will last the longest. This is the most important criterion because the extra weight puts more wear and tear on the components of the mattress, and it is likely to wear out sooner if the materials are low-quality. Since natural latex mattresses can outlast their polyurethane counterparts by up to 3X, it is the natural choice for a heavy person.
2. Thickness
If you are over 230 pounds, a 12″ natural latex mattress will have enough padding to remain comfortable. If the mattress is not thick enough to accommodate a heavy person, it is likely to achieve maximum compression or “bottom out” and lose breathability and pressure relief.
If you are in the 300+ pound range, we recommend a 12-inch and over natural latex mattress like the Hybrid Latex Mattress by Brentwood Home, the Select Sleep Hybrid by Sleep EZ, and the Hybrid Latex Slumber System by Luma.
3. Hybrid Construction
There are two main types of natural latex mattresses: all-latex core and hybrid. The best mattresses for a heavy person are composed of a base layer of spring coils on which are stacked one or more layers of natural latex comfort foam.
The spring coils can withstand more compression than a latex core without bottoming out. It will relieve pressure and remain breathable under heavy compression.
4. Breathability
Natural latex has open cells, which make it very breathable.
More heavyweight people complain about overheating during sleep than average-weight people. Materials like polyurethane and polyester that are present in conventional mattresses trap heat. Also, the is nothing cooling about “cooling gel foam” except for the cool blue color.
Polyurethane foam has closed cells that trap heat and humidity.
Natural latex foam has breathable qualities thanks to the open cells that form when cured. This enables excess heat and humidity to circulate away from your body and dissipate.
5. Edge Support
A high-quality spring coil layer will have higher gauge coils around the perimeter of the mattress. Good edge support is important for the following reasons:
- Sleeping close to the edge: Avoid getting the sensation that you will fall off the bed when you sleep close to the side of the bed.
- Sitting on the mattress: When you sit on the edge of the mattress when you get out of bed or put your shoes on etc., you will experience less sinkage.
- Moving: Natural latex mattresses with a reinforced perimeter will maintain their shape during moving and will have less tendency to fold over.
Quantum edge coils have a reinforced perimeter.
6. Zoned layers
The weight of the human body is not equally distributed across its length. That’s why it is important to have gauged coils to provide optimal support.
Additionally, the body has natural curves where excessive pressure can be felt if the mattress is inadequate. For many heavy people, pain points can develop in the shoulders and hips if the mattress is not supportive. Side sleepers need extra pressure relief because the body weight is more concentrated when sleeping in the side position.
The Avocado Standard and Vegan mattresses have a 5-zone coil unit. The coils act independently to offer optimal support for the neck, hips, and shoulders.
7. No toxic VOCs or Fire-Retardant Chemicals
Materials like polyurethane foam, polyester fabric, polyester fiber, glues, dyes, and fire-retardant chemicals all off-gas VOCs into your home environment. The level of VOCs is higher when the mattress is new. VOCs can adversely affect your health.
The safer and healthier route is to select a 3rd party certified natural latex mattress to avoid polluting your home environment with airborne toxic chemicals.
Best Mattresses For Overweight People Compared
Luxury Bliss by Plush Beds – 3rd Party Certified From Top To Bottom
The Luxury Bliss is the flagship hybrid natural latex mattress from Plush Beds.
Highlights
- Available in medium and medium-firm.
- 12″ spring coil layer, natural latex, and wool support.
- Certified by Greenguard Gold, USDA Organic (cotton, latex), GOLS, OEKO-Tex Standard 100, Eco-Institut, GOTS Organic, Eco Wool.
- 100-night sleep trial.
- 25-year limited warranty.
- Affordable price.
The support and motion isolation of fabric-encased coils provide the comfort needed for plus-sized people looking for a natural alternative to polyurethane. Suppose 3rd party certifications are important to you, then the Luxury Bliss has a lot to offer because it is 3rd-party certified from top to bottom and features organic latex and cotton.
What sets it apart? While not all natural latex foam is 3rd party certified, the 3″ layer of Dunlop latex in the Luxury Bliss is. Not only is it durable and resistant to sagging and indentations, but it is also certified by the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS). Products and components that carry the GOLS certification follow mandatory social and environmental regulations. The consumer that purchases a GOLS-certified product supports sustainable agriculture and manufacturing.
Hybrid Latex Mattress by Brentwood Home
Environmental Responsibility And Recycled Materials
Highlights
- Zoned latex layer for targeted pressure relief.
- A flaxseed fiber pad, denim base layer, and recycled steel coils make a truly green mattress.
- 975 supportive coils built to handle heavy weight.
- Competitively priced.
The Hybrid Latex Mattress by Brentwood Home represents a paradigm shift regarding using durable construction materials without sacrificing comfort and quality. At the mattress’s core, the ActivEdgeâ„¢ Quantum® Edge Coil Unit is made up of individually wrapped coils to withstand the demands of a heavier-than-average person. The 8-inch coil layer in the Queen size Hybrid Latex Mattress by Brentwood Home has a total of 789 coils. The ActivEdgeâ„¢ reinforced perimeter coils eliminate the rolling-off sensation while sleeping close to the side.
Why consider this mattress?Â
If you are under 330 pounds and want to make a positive difference for the environment through your purchase, then the Hybrid Latex Mattress by Brentwood Home will meet your criteria. Fibers derived from denim sourced from the cutting scraps during the original manufacturing process make up the base layer pad. REPREVE® fiber, derived from plastic bottles, makes up the cover fabric and handles. Additionally, the Hybrid Latex Mattress is free of chemical flame retardants and polyurethane foams and is backed by a 365-day trial period.
Serenity Spring by Savvy Rest
Customizable & made in the USA.
Highlights
Highlights- Made to order in the USA.
- Customizable coil firmness.
- 12″ in thickness.
- GOLS certified.
Throughout this list, hybrid mattresses (innerspring) coils are recommended for heavy people because the coils can handle much more compression than all-foam mattresses and remain breathable. The one downside of hybrid mattresses at the time of purchase is that they are not very customizable. You typically get a choice of medium or firm if the choice is even available.
The Serenity Spring presents many more possibilities for those searching for the best mattress for overweight people. You get the choice between:
- Soft Talalay, soft Dunlop, and medium Dunlop latex foam.
- Plush springs, firm springs, or split soft/firm springs.
Why did it make the list?
The choice of split configurations in the Serenity Spring enables a couple to have their firmness on their side of the bed. And thanks to the zippered cover, the mattress can be customized at home. You can swap the components to fine-tune them if you are unsatisfied with the firmness.
Organic Luxury Hybrid by Awara
Supportive sleep throughout the night.
Highlights
- Organic cotton cover.
- 4″ Natural latex layer.
- 9″ Support coil layer.
- 365-day trial.
The Awara Organic Luxury Hybrid can accommodate heavy bodyweights thanks to its 13″ thickness. The 9″ individually wrapped coil layer is robust enough to withstand higher-than-average compression and remain breathable. The mattress components are free of formaldehyde, phthalates, and toxic VOCs.
Why did it make the cut?
Ordering a mattress online sight unseen and receiving it at your doorstep in a box may cause some uneasiness. It is a large investment without seeing and testing the mattress in person before purchasing. Awara is so sure that you will get transformative and rejuvenating sleep on the Latex Hybrid Mattress that you get to try it out for a full year before committing. If it doesn’t meet your expectations, just let Awara know it is not right for you.
Avocado Green & Avocado Vegan With Pillowtop by Avocado
Available as standard or Vegan (wool free)
Highlights
- GOLS certified.
- GOTS-certified cotton cover.
- Wool-free option. (Avocado Vegan).
- Hand-tufted.
- 5-Zone coil unit.
The best mattresses for overweight people are designed with an emphasis on the coil unit because it is the mattress component that will take the brunt of the compression pressure. That’s why Avocado‘s coil unit comprises 1414 pocketed support coils for the queen model. The coil unit has five zones offering the right support and pressure relief where you need it most. This is important for side sleepers and all-around sleepers. When sleeping on your side, your body weight is more concentrated around the hips and shoulders. Avocado‘s coil unit is engineered to alleviate hip and shoulder pressure while contouring your natural curves and isolating motion.
Why did we include it?Â
The Avocado Pillowtop & Vegan models are slightly firmer than most beds in this list of the best mattresses for overweight people. It is rated 6/10, so it is slightly firmer than “medium” with the pillowtop option. At 13″ inches in thickness, it is built to support heavyweight people and still provide breathability and supreme comfort.
Secondly, having a wool-free natural latex mattress like the Avocado Vegan is important. Whether it be for animal rights or allergy considerations, the Vegan option is available. The wool is replaced with cotton, and hydrated silica acts as a fire barrier.
Select Sleep Hybrid by Sleep EZ
2-in-1 flippable mattress
Highlights
- 8″ pocketed coil layer.
- Reinforced edge pocketed coils.
- Flippable 2-sided comfort.
- Affordable.
Not only is the Select Sleep Hybrid a flippable mattress with two firmnesses on each side (medium-plush and firm), but it features one of the highest quality coil units available: the Bolsa ComforCore Coils with Quantum Edge. These coils are heat-treated and stress-relieved, so they will hold their shape over time. These coils are all independent of one another to minimize partner disturbance. They conform to every curve of your body so that all areas get personalized attention.
Why did we include it?
The affordability of the 14″ Select Sleep Hybrid is one of the most noteworthy aspects of this mattress. With such thickness, it is made to accommodate higher-than-average compression. The flippable, dual-firmness design means you can opt for a firmer or plusher feel by simply flipping it over.
SleepEZ Natural & Sleep EZ Organic
Latex mattress available in (7,9,10,13 inches).
Highlights
- Available in a 13-inch configuration, which is great for heavy people.
- Fully customizable on the SleepEz website
- Split firmness is available, which is great for couples.
- Choice of Dunlop or Talalay latex.
The great thing about the SleepEZ Natural and the SleepEz Organic is the number of customizations available upon ordering. Since these mattresses are assembled as orders come in, SleepEZ lets you build your mattress right on the website.
After selecting the thickness you want, you can even enter the height, weight, and sleeping position for you and your partner, and the mattress builder will come up with an optimized mattress configuration. You can modify this configuration once it appears on the mattress builder tool.
Two similar mattresses
The SleepEZ Natural and the SleepEz Organic vary only in the components offered with each one. Consult the “materials” row in the table below to determine how they differ.
Sleep EZ Natural vs. Organic
| Manufacturer | Natural Mattress by Sleep EZ (7,9,10,13 inches) | Organic Mattress by Sleep EZ (7,9,10,13 inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Visual | | |
| Check Latest Price | | |
| Mattress Type | Latex Core | Latex Core |
| Materials | Cotton cover, Joma wool batting, 100% natural Dunlop latex or Blended Talalay | Organic cotton cover, Eco wool batting, 100% natural Dunlop latex or 100% Natural Talalay latex |
| Firmness | Soft, Medium, Firm, Extra-Firm Split firmness available | Soft, Medium, Firm, Extra-Firm Split firmness available |
| Certification | GOLS, Oeko-TEX Standard 100, Eco Wool, GOTS, Eco-Institut, Rainforest Alliance | GOLS, Oeko-TEX Standard 100, Eco Wool, GOTS, Eco-Institut, Rainforest Alliance |
| Free Shipping | ✔ | ✔ |
| Free Returns | $99 | $99 |
| Trial | 90 days | 90 days |
| Warranty | 20 year limited | 20 year limited |
| Queen | 60 X 80 X (7,9,10,13 inches) | 60 X 80 X (7,9,10,13 inches) |
| Visual | | |
| Check Latest Price | | |
| Manufacturer | Natural Mattress by Sleep EZ (7,9,10,13 inches) | Organic Mattress by Sleep EZ (7,9,10,13 inches) |
Conclusion
Learning about the guidelines for choosing the best mattress for heavy people will help cut down on the selection time.
Here are some criteria you should look out for when choosing a mattress for a heavy person:
- Natural latex foam for high durability.
- Thickness of 12″ or over.
- Hybrid construction: coils can handle more weight than an all-foam core and still remain breathable.
- Breathability: natural latex and wool are more breathable than polyurethane. The coil layer has many air pockets that help dissipate heat and humidity.
- Edge support: coil units with reinforced perimeters help eliminate the rolling-off sensation when sleeping close to the edge of the bed. A reinforced perimeter also adds stability when sitting on the edge of the bed.
