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Memory foam is renowned for its stellar pressure relief and its ability to absorb movement, allowing for uninterrupted sleep with a partner. However, memory foam has a tendency to trap heat, resulting in a dilemma for hot sleepers. To work around this, manufacturers have developed gel-infused memory foam. Every manufacturer makes its gel memory foam a little differently, and some are more successful than others when it comes to effective cooling.
- Endorsed by thousands of 5-star reviews and backed by a lifetime warranty, our top pick is the DreamCloud Premier. It excels at relieving pressure and supporting spinal alignment.
- Designed to sleep cooler, gel beads or swirls are interspersed throughout memory foam, where it absorbs heat to prevent it from building up. Read more in our guide.
- Is time of the essence? Watch 1-minute video reviews of some of our favorite gel mattresses.
Our Top Picks
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Best Mattress Overall – DreamCloud Premier
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Best Value Mattress – Bear Original
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Best Luxury Mattress – Loom & Leaf
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Most Comfortable Mattress – Nectar Premier
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Best Mattress for Back Pain – WinkBed
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Best Cooling Mattress – Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
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Best Mattress for Side Sleepers – Puffy Lux Hybrid
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Best Mattress Overall
DreamCloud Premier
8.7 /10
Test Lab Score
50% off mattresses + $599 worth of free accessories
50% off mattresses + $599 worth of free accessories
The best overall gel mattress is the DreamCloud Premier. Its hybrid design layers gel-infused foam above a robust layer of pocketed coils, giving the mattress a cooler feel and impressive all-around performance.


Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$949
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
365 nights (30-night requirement)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
The DreamCloud Premier suits a wide range of sleepers, but its balance of cushioning and support best fits the needs of side and back sleepers who weigh under 230 pounds.
Feel
The feel of the DreamCloud Premier is medium firm (6), giving you a soothing level of cushioning without annoying sinkage. It resists heat buildup to promote cooler and more comfortable sleep.
What It’s Made Of
Quilted in the Euro-style pillow-top are a layer of gel-infused memory foam and a layer of polyfoam. Beneath these is a thicker layer of gel-infused memory foam and a resilient gel-infused polyfoam. The base is made of tall, individually wrapped innerspring coils.
What We Don’t Like
The mattress can feel too soft for stomach sleepers who weigh over 230 pounds. At 13 inches tall, it may require fitted sheets with extra-deep pockets.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
Full Details
Construction Breakdown
The DreamCloud Premier is a 14-inch hybrid model with a medium firm (6) feel. This mattress features a cashmere blend Euro-top cover quilted with two 1-inch and gel memory foam layers. A 2.5-inch polyfoam transitional layer helps prevent excessive sinkage. Rounding out the bed is an 8.5-inch layer of pocketed coils, with a polyfoam base for added stability.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
DreamCloud ships free to the contiguous U.S. and offers a 365-night sleep trial with a 30-night requirement. A limited lifetime warranty covers the mattress.
Best Value Mattress
Bear Original
7.6 /10
Test Lab Score
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
With the Bear Original Mattress, you can get the benefits of high-quality memory foam without breaking the bank or breaking out in a sweat. Its gel-infused foam cushions your body without exaggerated sinkage, offering a firmer and more reliable sleep surface than many all-foam models.



Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$649
Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Firm (7)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
The Bear Original delivers the best support for side sleepers who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds, back sleepers under 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. Couples also like its above-average motion isolation.
Feel
Your first impression when lying on the Bear Original is that it comfortably cradles your joints, but you also notice that there’s just the right amount of pushback so you don’t sink deeply into the bed. Our testing rated its firmness level as firm (7).
What It’s Made Of
The cover is made with quilted fabric with the option to add performance Celliant fabric as an upgrade. The interior layers include gel-infused memory foam, resilient polyfoam, and dense base polyfoam. All of these are open-cell foams for better heat dissipation.
What We Don’t Like
The contouring memory foam can be off-putting to stomach sleepers over 130 pounds. There’s also a noticeable “new mattress smell” when you first remove the Bear Original from its packaging.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 10000 validated customer reviews of the Bear Original. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Firmness and Comfort: Many reviewers find the Bear Original mattress to be on the firm side but still comfortable, providing a good balance of support and cushioning.
- Pain Relief and Support: Users frequently report relief from back and neck pain. The mattress offers good support, which contributes to a more restful sleep and helps with physical recovery, especially noted by athletes and those with physically demanding lifestyles.
- Adjustment Period: Some customers noted a need for an adjustment period where initially the mattress felt too firm, but became more comfortable after continuous use. This is typical, and we recommend using a mattress for at least two weeks before considering a return.
- Temperature Regulation: There are some mixed reviews regarding temperature control; some users mention that the mattress does a good job at staying cool, while a few others still experience heat retention. This is most likley due to the memory foam featured in the mattress. If you’re a particularly hot sleeper, you may want to look elsewhere.
- Ease of Setup: The mattress is easy to unbox and set up, and it quickly expands to its full size. Customers appreciate the ease of installation.
- Customer Service: Bear’s customer service is frequently praised for being responsive and helpful, enhancing the overall buying and service experience.
Full Details
Construction Breakdown
The Bear Original’s topmost layer is composed of memory foam infused with graphite-based cooling gel intended to offset heat retention. An open-cell composition for the foam delivers additional breathability. Dense polyfoam makes up the transitional and support layers, reinforcing the firm feel to keep your body on an even plane. Altogether, the mattress measures 10 inches thick.
A cover made from Celliant-blend fabric encases the foam layers. Celliant is engineered to help you physically recover during sleep by converting your body heat into infrared energy. This material also feels cool to the touch and promotes comfortable temperature regulation throughout the night.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
In addition to an affordable sticker price, the Bear Original ships free of charge to customers in the contiguous U.S. Each order includes two free pillows, but you can upgrade this offer to a discounted bedding set that features both pillows along with a sheet set and mattress protector. Bear’s sleep trial runs for 120 nights. A lifetime manufacturer’s warranty covers structural defects for as long as you retain original ownership.
Best Luxury Mattress
Loom & Leaf
8.3 /10
Test Lab Score
$300 off mattress purchases of $1,000 or more
$300 off mattress purchases of $1,000 or more
The most luxurious gel mattress is the Loom & Leaf, an all-foam mattress that delivers exceptional pressure relief and comfort. It is built with high-quality materials including organic cotton and gel-infused memory foam, and comes with the extra benefit of free White Glove delivery.



Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$2,395
Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
Offered in two firmness levels, the Loom & Leaf can suit almost any sleeper. Most people under 230 pounds prefer the medium firm (6) model, while stomach sleepers and people over 230 pounds tend to like the firm (8) version.
Feel
The Loom & Leaf feels comfortable right off the bat with plenty of contouring from the gel memory foam and extra back support from a memory foam lumbar pad. At the same time, the mattress resists heat retention to help you sleep cool.
What It’s Made Of
Under its organic cotton cover, the Loom & Leaf has a layer of gel-infused memory foam reinforced with a gel foam lumbar pad. There’s another layer of gel memory foam plus two layers of resilient polyfoam to protect against sinkage. The support core is a thick layer of high-density polyfoam.
What We Don’t Like
Some side sleepers under 130 pounds may feel that the mattress is just a bit too firm. All returns are charged a $99 fee.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 595 validated customer reviews of the Loom & Leaf. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Quality of Materials: Users often mention the high quality of materials used in the Loom & Leaf mattress, suggesting that it contributes to the overall comfort and durability of the product.
- Temperature Control: Reviewers appreciate the cooling technology of the mattress, which helps in maintaining a comfortable sleeping temperature throughout the night.
- Customer Service: There is frequent praise for the customer service provided by Saatva, the company behind Loom & Leaf. Customers describe the service as helpful, responsive, and accommodating.
- Delivery and Setup: Positive comments are common regarding the delivery process. The white-glove delivery service, which includes setup and old mattress removal, is frequently highlighted as a significant benefit.
- Price Value: Several users feel that the mattress provides good value for money, especially when compared to other high-end memory foam mattresses in the market.
- Trial Period and Warranty: The generous trial period and warranty are often cited as key advantages, giving customers confidence in their purchase and satisfaction with the company’s support over time.
Full Details
Construction Breakdown
The Loom & Leaf Mattress by Saatva is a 12-inch model sold in two firmness options: medium firm (6) and firm (8). Both models include an organic cotton cover with antimicrobial treatment and a non-toxic thistle fire barrier.
In the center third of the mattress, a spinal zone gel layer offers cooling lumbar support. This sits atop a layer of gel-infused memory foam and a second, denser layer of pressure-relieving memory foam. A high-density polyfoam base provides stability and support.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
Saatva offers free White Glove delivery in the contiguous U.S., and customers can also add on old mattress removal at the time of checkout for no additional fee. The Loom & Leaf has a lifetime warranty and a 365-night sleep trial. Returned mattresses are subject to a $99 fee.
Most Comfortable Mattress
Nectar Premier
8.8 /10
Test Lab Score
Save 50% on mattresses & 66% on bundles
Save 50% on mattresses & 66% on bundles
Our choice for the most comfortable gel mattress is the Nectar Premier. It offers exceptional pressure relief, cushioning your joints and other high-impact areas. With cooling features like gel-infused foam, it also reduces overheating so that you can feel at ease at bedtime.

Price
$949
Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
365 nights (30-night requirement)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
The Nectar Premier is best suited to people who sleep on their side and weigh over 130 pounds and back sleepers who weigh under 230 pounds. It’s also a good fit for people who like the feel of a foam bed but tend to sleep hot.
Feel
The firmness level of this mattress is medium firm (6). Its foam layers cradle heavier areas like the hips and shoulders, but there’s enough resilience to keep you from feeling like you’re sinking into the mattress.
What It’s Made Of
The top layer of the Nectar Premier is made with gel-infused memory foam that also features a phase change material intended to maintain a stable temperature. Under the memory foam is a layer of responsive polyfoam, and the base is made with stable and supportive high-density polyfoam.
What We Don’t Like
Sleepers who weigh over 230 pounds may feel like they press too deeply into the mattress. Increased foam compression around the edges reduces overall edge support.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 5417 validated customer reviews of the Nectar Premier. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Minimal Motion Transfer: Couples often mention the mattress does a good job of isolating movement, allowing for undisturbed sleep.
- Improved Sleep Quality: Reviewers frequently note better sleep quality, with less tossing and turning and more restful nights.
- Temperature Regulation: Several users appreciate the cooling features of the mattress, noting it helps keep them cool throughout the night.
- Firmness: The mattress is often described as having the right balance of firmness and softness, accommodating various sleeping positions.
- Durability and Quality: Customers are generally satisfied with the build quality and durability of the mattress.
- Price Value: Many reviewers feel the mattress offers great value for the price, comparing favorably to more expensive brands.
Full Details
Construction Breakdown
The mattress is constructed with a 3-inch memory foam comfort layer that molds closely to evenly distribute your weight and reduce pressure in sensitive areas of your body. This layer is infused with cooling gel and phase change material to make the mattress suitable for hot sleepers. Transitional and base layers of high-density polyfoam reinforce the comfort layer to help maintain an even surface for your body.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
The mattress is fairly expensive compared to other all-foam models, but Nectar will ship it for free anywhere in the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive 365 days to test out the mattress, along with a lifetime warranty.
Best Mattress for Back Pain
WinkBed
8.9 /10
Test Lab Score
Get $300 off all mattresses at Winkbeds
Get $300 off all mattresses at Winkbeds
With a hybrid design that balances both cushioning and spinal support, the WinkBed is our pick for the best gel mattress for back pain. It includes two distinct gel foam layers that relieve pressure around the joints, and a robust base of coils prevents sinkage and supports the lower back.



Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$1,499
Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Trial Period
120 nights (30 night requirement)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
The WinkBed is available in four firmness levels, which means it can deliver great results to almost any sleeper. The WinkBed Plus holds special appeal for people over 230 pounds who need a firm yet pressure-relieving mattress.
Feel
The feel of the WinkBed depends on the model you select with four options: medium soft (4), medium firm (6), firm (7), and extra firm (8). Each model has an inviting feel from gel-infused foams and coils that give plenty of lumbar support.
What It’s Made Of
The top two layers of the WinkBed are made of gel-infused foam. One layer is quilted into a Euro-style pillow-top. The second is made of a responsive foam that resists sinkage. Thick individually wrapped coils give the mattress stability and bounce. The WinkBed Plus substitutes natural latex for the second layer of gel foam.
What We Don’t Like
The firmer models of the WinkBed can transfer motion across the mattress surface. The mattress may not be ideal for people who want the feel of sinking into a deep hug.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 8573 validated customer reviews of the Winkbed. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Pain Relief and Support: A significant number of users report alleviation of back, hip, and shoulder pain, attributing this to the mattress’s supportive design. Individuals with chronic back issues have noted substantial improvements in sleep quality.
- Comfort Across Sleep Positions: Reviewers from various sleep positions—side, back, and stomach—find the mattress comfortable. The availability of different firmness levels allows users to select options that best suit their sleeping style.
- Temperature Regulation: Many customers appreciate the mattress’s ability to stay cool, enhancing overall comfort throughout the night.
- Edge Support: Users frequently mention the robust edge support, which provides a stable and usable sleeping surface across the entire mattress.
- Firmness Options: Customers appreciate the variety of firmness options available, finding the right balance for their personal preferences.
- Durability and Craftsmanship: The mattress is often praised for its high-quality construction and materials, with users expressing confidence in its longevity. The lifetime warranty further reinforces trust in the product’s durability.
- Customer Service and Trial Experience: Customers value the 120-night risk-free trial and responsive customer service, noting that these factors contribute to a positive purchasing experience.
Full Details
Construction Breakdown
The WinkBed is available in medium soft (4), medium firm (6), firm (7), and firm (8) options. The three softer models begin with a Euro-top cover quilted with gel-infused polyfoam, giving the surface a plush feel that contours to the body and alleviates pressure. This is followed by a transitional polyfoam layer that prevents you from sinking too deeply into the mattress. The firmest model starts with a high-density polyfoam layer followed by a thick latex layer, generating firmer support.
In all models, pocketed coils in a zoned configuration make up the support core. Thicker coils are placed beneath the midsection to reduce sagging and promote spinal alignment. Perimeter reinforcement bolsters the edges, preventing it from sinking when you sleep near the edges or get in and out of bed. A breathable and moisture-wicking Tencel cover encases the mattress.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
WinkBed offers free shipping to customers living in the contiguous U.S. and a 120-night sleep trial. If you decide to keep the mattress after the trial, it is backed by a generous lifetime warranty covering structural defects.
Best Cooling Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
9.2 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off sitewide. Code: PRESDAY25
25% off sitewide. Code: PRESDAY25
Stop waking up in a sweat with the help of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress. With gel foam and other advanced cooling features, the Aurora Luxe sleeps cool while also providing significant comfort and back support.



Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$1,586
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
The Aurora Luxe is a great match for hot sleepers. With three firmness options, it also effectively supports people of almost any body weight and sleeping position.
Feel
Thanks to its advanced design, the mattress has a crisp and cool feel with a mix of cushioning and bounce. Its firmness varies by model can be soft (4), medium firm (6), or firm (7).
What It’s Made Of
The Aurora Luxe Hybrid has a comfort system with multiple layers of foam, including foam infused with gel and copper fibers. Tall pocketed coils serve as a base of support, stability, and bounce. A GlacioTex cover resists heat buildup, and you can opt to upgrade to a cooling pillow-top model.
What We Don’t Like
The foams in the mattress can emit an odor that lasts for up to a few days after you remove it from its packaging. All mattress returns incur a $99 return shipping fee.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 3474 validated customer reviews of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Height and Thickness: Many reviewers mention the mattress being taller or thicker than anticipated, requiring adjustments like new bed sheets.
- Comfort and Support: Consistent mentions of the mattress providing good support and comfort, suitable for various sleeping positions and body types.
- Cooling Features: A significant number of people appreciate the cooling aspect of the mattress, which is particularly beneficial for hot sleepers.
- Firmness Levels: Some reviewers note discrepancies in the expected versus actual firmness levels, with some finding the mattresses softer than anticipated.
- Edge Support: Mixed reviews on edge support, with some finding it adequate and others noting it could be improved. We found it to be relatively average for a hybrid
- Material Quality: Reviews often mention the high quality of materials, though some note issues with sheets slipping off due to the sleekness of the mattress cover.
- Smell and Off-Gassing: Some mention a noticeable smell upon unpacking that dissipates over time.
Full Details
Construction Breakdown
The mattress is available in three firmness options that correspond to medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (7) on our firmness scale. All models begin with a cushioned layer of CopperFlex, a proprietary gel-infused foam that contours to the body. Beneath is a TitanFlex foam layer with a moderately bouncy feel, followed by a gel-infused memory foam layer in the two softer models and a firmer VariFlex foam layer in the firm model. Rounding out the construction is a support core of pocketed coils.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
Brooklyn Bedding offers customers 120 nights to try out the mattress. You may return the bed within this timeframe for a full refund. The bed is backed by a lifetime warranty and the mattress ships free to addresses in the contiguous U.S.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Puffy Lux Hybrid
8.3 /10
Test Lab Score
$750 off + free accessories at Puffy
$750 off + free accessories at Puffy
Side sleepers have unique support needs, and the Puffy Lux Hybrid is well-suited to meet them. Its multi-layered comfort system, which includes two layers of gel-infused foam, accommodates the hips and shoulders so that side sleepers can maintain a healthy spinal alignment throughout the night.


Price
$1,399
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5)
Trial Period
101 nights (14-night break-in period)
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
The Puffy Lux is best for sleepers under 230 pounds and especially well-suited to people who sleep on their side. It’s also great for couples who want a mattress that limits sleep disruptions from motion transfer from one side of the mattress to the other.
Feel
The Puffy Lux Hybrid has a gentle and welcoming amount of cradling that gives immediate relief to hot spots like the shoulders and hips. Its firmness level is medium (5), and its layer of pocketed coils promotes reliable support without sinkage.
What It’s Made Of
There are six layers in the Puffy Lux Hybrid. The top layer is a breathable fiber, followed by two different layers of contouring gel-infused foams. These are buttressed by two layers of responsive polyfoam, a tall layer of metal coils, and an underlying base of high-density polyfoam.
What We Don’t Like
The mattress can lack support and firmness for sleepers over 230 pounds. Its thick foam layers can give off a “new mattress smell” that may linger for up to a few days.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
Full Details
Construction Breakdown
The comfort layer is composed of proprietary Cooling Cloud gel-infused foam that contours closely to the body but is engineered to retain a minimal amount of body heat. A second layer of Plush Dual Cloud offers extra conforming, while the denser Climate Comfort polyfoam transitional layer prevents you from sinking excessively. The support core contains individually pocketed coils that stabilize the mattress and prevent deep sinkage along the edges without making the surface feel too stiff or generating disruptive motion transfer. A base layer of high-density polyfoam adds extra reinforcement.
Most mattresses made today have non-removable covers that can only be spot-cleaned. In contrast, the Lux’s cover is removable and can be laundered in any household machine for easy care and optimal hygiene. The fabric is also stain-resistant.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
Delivery is free of charge for all customers in the contiguous U.S. Every purchase comes with a 101-night sleep trial that includes complimentary return shipping. Those who choose to keep the mattress also receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects.
Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
SweetNight Dreamy Gel Memory Foam
7.6 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to 60% off + 2 free pillows with each mattress order. Save an extra 5% with code: SLEEP
Up to 60% off + 2 free pillows with each mattress order. Save an extra 5% with code: SLEEP
Getting enough pressure relief can require the right firmness and cushioning, and the SweetNight Dreamy Gel Memory Foam Mattress makes that easier with its unique design. Depending on how you position it, the mattress can have three different firmness levels, all of which provide dependable comfort from gel-infused foam.

Price
$937
Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium (5) Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
100 nights
Our Verdict
Who It’s Best For
The mattress is best for sleepers who want to be able to modify the feel of their mattress. Its construction and performance best suits side sleepers under 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds.
Feel
This SweetNight mattress can feel medium soft (4), medium (5), or medium firm (6) depending on how you set up the mattress. In any position, the mattress provides notable contouring that softens impact around major pressure points.
What It’s Made Of
The mattress is built with three layers. There’s a layer of adaptive polyfoam, a layer of gel-infused foam, and a thicker layer of denser polyfoam. The adaptive polyfoam has a zoned design, so it feels softer depending on which side you set as the head of the bed. The firmest feel comes when you flip the mattress so the dense polyfoam is on top.
What We Don’t Like
The mattress feels noticeably weaker around the edges where there is greater compression of the foam. None of its firmness levels are likely to be supportive for stomach sleepers over 230 pounds.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 421 validated customer reviews of the SweetNight Dreamy Gel Memory Foam. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Feel: Many users note the versatility of this mattress with four distinct feels, two on each surface. The mattress is also fairly light and easy to flip and rotate as needed.
- Pressure Relief: Users seem satisfied with the adaptive feel and deep contour of this mattress. This is especially true for people who live with frequent pain and sharp pressure points.
- Temperature Regulation: Temperature control is so-so for the Dreamy Gel Memory Foam. The cooling gel infusions are somewhat effective, but some users report excessive heat retention from their mattress.
- Motion Isolation: Couples praise the Dreamy Gel Memory Foam for its ability to absorb movement and isolate motion transfer. This appears to be the case with both sides of the mattress.
- Customer Service: Some users report positive interactions with SweetNight. For others, the company can be hard to reach when issues arise.
Full Details
Construction Breakdown
The Prime mattress is constructed with four distinct layers: gel-infused memory foam, transitional polyfoam, polyfoam, and high-density polyfoam. These layers are curved to create a dual-firmness design, offering two different sleep experiences in one mattress. One side provides a more adaptive surface, with close contouring that feels medium soft (4) at one end and medium (5) at the other. Flipping the mattress reveals a firmer, more supportive surface, with one end feeling medium firm (6) and the other very firm (8).
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
SweetNight provides several delivery options for customers in the contiguous U.S., including free ground shipping via FedEx. The Prime mattress comes with a 100-night sleep trial, allowing you to test it before committing. If you decide to keep the mattress, it is backed by a 10-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects.
The Best Deals of The Week
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$499 (List Price $665) -
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$1,780 (List Price $2,373) -
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$1,398 (List Price $3,916) -
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$1,499 (List Price $1,799) -
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Best Overall
DreamCloud Premier
8.7 /10
Test Lab Score
50% off mattresses + $599 worth of free accessories
Shop NowA luxury all-foam mattress that promotes proper spinal alignment and pressure relief.
See More Details

Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Best Value
Bear Original
7.6 /10
Test Lab Score
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
Shop NowAn ideal combination of affordability and comfort in a dependable gel mattress.
See More Details
Best Luxury
Loom & Leaf
8.3 /10
Test Lab Score
$300 off mattress purchases of $1,000 or more
Shop NowMultiple layers of gel-infused memory foam create top-notch comfort and luxurious pressure relief.
See More Details

Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Most Comfortable
Nectar Premier
8.8 /10
Test Lab Score
Save 50% on mattresses & 66% on bundles
Shop NowA budget-friendly gel mattress that offers incredible comfort and a cool night’s sleep.
See More Details

Best for Back Pain
WinkBed
8.9 /10
Test Lab Score
Get $300 off all mattresses at Winkbeds
Shop NowStrong spinal support from a hybrid mattress with two layers of gel-infused foam.
See More Details
Best Cooling
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
9.2 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off sitewide. Code: PRESDAY25
Shop NowA well-built gel mattress that promises comfort, support, and a cooler night’s sleep.
See More Details
Best for Side Sleepers
Puffy Lux Hybrid
8.3 /10
Test Lab Score
$750 off + free accessories at Puffy
Shop NowA hybrid mattress cushioning gel foams offering standout support for side sleepers.
See More Details

Best for Pressure Relief
SweetNight Dreamy Gel Memory Foam
7.6 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to 60% off + 2 free pillows with each mattress order. Save an extra 5% with code: SLEEP
Shop NowPressure relief and three-in-one firmness from an innovative and affordable mattress with gel-infused foam.
See More Details

What Is a Gel Mattress?
A gel mattress contains at least one layer of gel-infused memory foam or polyfoam in the comfort system. Generally found in the form of beads or swirls, the gel infusions are intended to help regulate temperature by absorbing heat and pulling it away from the bed’s surface. As a result, gel mattresses often sleep cooler than traditional memory foam models. Gel foam may also feature perforations or an open-cell design to further enhance airflow.
The gel-infused foam layers can be paired with a polyfoam support core or with innerspring coils in the case of a gel hybrid mattress. There may also be other layers in the comfort system.
Gel-infused foam usually supplies conforming pressure relief, but the feel of the mattress also depends on the other layers and the exact firmness and makeup of the gel foam.
How to Choose the Best Gel Mattress
Buying a gel mattress comes with special considerations. Buyers must decide on not only the composition and placement of the gel foam, but also on the type of mattress.
If you’re thinking about whether you should get a gel mattress, you may find it helps to have an understanding of how gel infusions contribute to the overall feel of the mattress, who is best suited to a gel mattress, and what other factors should be taken into account when buying a bed.
What to Look For in a Mattress
Gel is a proprietary material that differs in its makeup from manufacturer to manufacturer, which sometimes makes it challenging to compare and contrast models. That said, there are several key points that can help you identify the mattress that best fits your needs.
Price
You can expect to pay a little more for a gel mattress compared to a regular foam mattress. However, gel mattresses are available at a wide range of price-points, so most shoppers should be able to find a mattress that fits their budget. All-foam models generally cost less than gel hybrids, and extra features or additional layers may raise the price.
Sleeping Position
Memory foam is best known for relieving pressure points, and gel mattresses are often favored by side sleepers looking to ease pain in the hips and shoulders. Gel foam can also help to reduce tension when sleeping on your back. On the other hand, stomach sleepers may find a gel foam mattress too plush.
Quality Materials
Mattresses made with higher-quality materials can be more expensive, but they usually last longer. And while denser foams tend to hold up better to pressure, they may also trap more heat.
Firmness Level
Although there are exceptions, gel memory foam mattresses are usually medium soft to medium firm. This firmness range is suitable for most sleeper types, particularly side sleepers and back sleepers who weigh less than 230 pounds. Stomach sleepers or those over 230 pounds may prefer a thinner layer of gel foam over firmer layers of polyfoam or latex.
Pressure Relief
Gel foam usually contours quite closely to the sleeper, helping distribute weight and prevent pressure points from forming. In concert with a supportive base, this material can also contribute to proper spinal alignment. People who often wake up with aches and pains may want to consider a mattress with a thicker comfort system.
Motion Isolation
Couples should find that gel memory foam helps absorb movement to reduce nighttime disruptions. However, the base of the mattress also plays a role in motion isolation. Mattresses with polyfoam support cores tend to isolate motion better than those with coils, although hybrids with individually wrapped coils also perform fairly well.
Temperature Regulation
The aim of gel memory foam is to provide the pressure-relieving properties of memory foam without the heat retention. Different manufacturers accomplish this to different extents. Gel memory foam rarely sleeps as cool as latex or wool, but it may be a good option for hot sleepers who need a cooling mattress and like the feel of memory foam.
Edge Support
Edge support is mostly determined by the support core. Foam mattresses may compress more around the perimeter, while hybrids generally hold up better, especially if they have reinforced edges. When evaluating a mattress for edge support, be aware that mattresses with thicker, plusher comfort systems are likely to sag more around the edges. This may limit usable space and make it more difficult to get in and out of bed.
Contouring
Contouring refers to the ability of a material to wrap around your body. Memory foam contours more closely than polyfoam, and polyfoam usually contours more closely than latex. A certain amount of contouring is necessary to relieve pressure points, but too much contouring may allow excessive sinking that compromises spinal support.
Mattress Type
Gel mattresses typically come in all-foam or hybrid options. All-foam models with polyfoam support cores make little to no noise, and they typically offer strong motion isolation and pressure relief. Hybrid models often have better edge support and temperature neutrality, as well as a more responsive surface. Using pocketed coils in the support core of a hybrid can also cut down on motion transfer.
Off-Gassing
Because it is a type of synthetic polyurethane foam, gel foam may emit off-gassing odors when it is first unboxed. These occur as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released into the air. The scent usually dissipates after a few days, but if you are sensitive to smell, you may want to find a mattress with less off-gassing.
Mattresses made with lower-density foams or those that incorporate space for airflow usually air out faster.
Third-party organizations like CertiPUR-US and Greenguard test mattresses for their emission levels and grant certifications to mattresses that meet their criteria, which can provide some peace of mind.
How Does It Feel to Sleep on a Gel Mattress?
Gel infusions can be added to various types of foam, with the primary intent of making it sleep cooler. This versatile material may therefore appeal to many different sleeper types, especially those with a tendency to overheat or those who live in warmer climates.
Gel memory foam contours more closely and provides a classic hug-like feel. Gel-infused polyfoam varies in firmness, but it is almost always more responsive than memory foam, and it doesn’t tend to conform as closely. Some mattresses also use different formats such as gel pods, ridged cutouts, or a thicker layer in the lumbar section to modify the mattress’ performance.
Whereas many mattresses are made with a single layer of gel foam over a foam or coil base, mattresses may also have a thinner layer of gel foam tucked between other layers of wool, polyfoam, or other materials. All of these designs can alter the feel of the bed.
How We Test: Your Comfort Is Our Science
Our industry-leading product testing team cares deeply about improving your sleep. Having a holistic understanding of a mattress’s role as part of a sleep system is paramount to our testing process. Since a bed’s comfort and feel depend largely on body weight and sleeping position, our testing team represents a wide range of body types, sleep positions, and comfort preferences.
In our Seattle-based Test Lab, we use an objective, hands-on process to evaluate mattresses across performance categories. The following are the key guidelines that inform our performance ratings. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best purchase decision for you.
Construction analysis: We begin testing each mattress by analyzing its design and making note firmness, height, individual layer composition, and sticker price. This allows us to evaluate qualities like support, durability, and value.
Product testing: Firsthand testing is crucial to our evaluation and ratings system. We use a wide range of tools and technology to test mattresses in six performance categories: motion isolation, pressure relief, temperature control, ease of movement, edge support, and odor potential.
Field testing: In addition to lab-based tests, we base our ratings on feedback from field testers who use the mattresses in their own homes. They spend several weeks collecting data — this gives us insights into how the mattress performs night after night for an extended period.
User testing: We curate feedback verified owners have provided in surveys, sleep stories, and product reviews. This helps us evaluate our initial findings and, if needed, tweak our ratings to reflect real-world experiences.
How We Determine Our Overall Scores


To determine a mattress’s overall score, we assign weighted percentages to performance categories based on how important they are to the individual sleep experience. For instance, areas like pressure relief and temperature control tend to matter more to people than something like off-gassing, and because more people sleep on their side and back than on their stomach, we weigh those positions more heavily.
Performance Categories
Motion Isolation
This criteria alludes to the amount of motion a mattress absorbs when a sleeper moves on the surface. We use two testers lying side by side to evaluate motion isolation, who each feel for transfer while the other person moves on the mattress.
Temperature Control
To determine how well a mattress regulates temperature, we perform temperature tests and look closely at its materials and construction. Many mattresses are designed with cooling components meant to reduce heat retention.
Pressure Relief
A bed with strong pressure relief excels at preventing pressure from building up in areas like the shoulders and hips. Beds with even contouring and weight distribution are top performers when it comes to pressure relief.
Off-Gassing
A mattress in a box may release unpleasant chemical odors for a short period after you’ve unboxed it. The initial smell may be strong but typically fades within 2 or 3 days.
Ease of Movement
This criteria reflects how easily a sleeper can move across a bed’s surface. Responsive surfaces made of latex typically perform better than foam surfaces, which can inhibit movement.
Edge Support
We perform sit tests along a bed’s perimeter to measure how well the edges push back against weight. Mattresses with strong edge support have minimal sagging when sleepers sit on or lie close to the perimeter.
Dive Deeper – Mattress Guides by Type
If you’d like to refine your search for a bed beyond a gel mattress, read through our other guides categorized by mattress type.
Best Mattress by Type
- Best Mattress in a Box
- Best RV Mattress
- Best Mattress in Canada
- Best Smart Mattress
- Best Online Mattress
- Best Flippable Mattress
- Best Airbed Mattress
- Best Mattress for Bunk Beds
- Best Mattress on Amazon
- Best Temporary Air Mattress
- Best Walmart Mattress
- Best Pillow Top Mattress
- Best Crib Mattress
- Best Memory Foam Mattress
Frequently Asked Questions
Gel mattresses aim to offer a cooler sleep experience, which can raise the price-point compared to regular foam mattresses. Gel foam is a good option for sleepers who like the pressure-relieving, motion-isolating feel of memory foam or polyfoam but don’t like sleeping hot.
Because gel must be added to either memory foam or polyfoam, gel mattresses may not be attractive to shoppers who prefer natural materials or those who are sensitive to off-gassing smells.
As gel foam is meant to be used in the comfort layers, gel mattresses can come in either hybrid or all-foam models. All-foam models have a high-density polyfoam support base, whereas hybrid mattresses have an innerspring base that is often made with pocketed coils. More rarely, shoppers might see airbed models with gel foam comfort layers over an inflatable air chamber.
The average price of a gel mattress runs from about $800 to $2,000, though there are plenty of models that fall outside of this range. Foam mattresses are among the cheapest options, while hybrids may be more expensive. Although gel foam is more expensive than regular memory foam or polyfoam, gel mattresses usually cost less than natural latex mattresses.
Pricing can change depending on the brand, the design of the mattress, the quality of the materials, and the shipping and return policies. If you want the feel of gel foam but not the investment in a new mattress, a gel foam mattress topper may also be an option.
On average, buyers can expect a foam or hybrid mattress to last 6 to 8 years if properly cared for.
With all mattresses, the comfort system generally starts to break down before the support core. As a comfort layer, gel foam is not the most durable material, especially in its plusher iterations. However, regularly rotating the mattress from head to foot can delay the onset of permanent body indentations. Using a mattress protector can also help extend the lifespan by shielding the material against accidents.
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.
Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.