In a mattress, hot sleepers tend to find the most relief in models with advanced cooling technologies and breathable construction. Look for materials that are cool to the touch, a cover that’s infused with cooling textiles and gels, as well as a layer of specialized foam that’s meant to absorb and release heat throughout the night.
There are also plenty of other features that can boost the chill of a mattress, including metal infusions (either copper or zinc) and phase-change materials that work to regulate temperature. Many manufacturers also add extra cooling layers that pull heat from the body and disperse it over a larger surface area. These can include high-density memory foam, latex or Celliant (a proprietary material that converts body heat into infrared energy to reduce moisture buildup).
It’s important to note that not all mattresses best mattress for hot sleepers that use infused or phase-change materials are designed to be cooling. However, in our experience, they often have an added benefit of being able to hold heat for longer than standard poly foam.
Some of the best cooling mattresses feature a quilted cover with fabrics that can draw heat away from the sleeper. You may also want to consider a mattress with a woven fabric cover, which helps keep the bed cooler and can be more durable than a knit or cotton option.
In terms of construction, all-foam mattresses typically have a tendency to trap heat, while hybrids and innerspring options usually sleep coolest (though they can fall a little short in breathability if not constructed properly). You’ll also find that mattresses with a higher number of coils or pocketed coils generally have better heat-regulating capabilities than those with fewer rows.
You should also look for a mattress with a medium firmness, as this sleep profile offers the most comfort while providing adequate support for back and stomach sleepers and those with pain in these areas. Some models, like the Cocoon Chill by Sealy, are available in both all-foam and hybrid forms, though we’ve found the firmer model is the best option for hot sleepers.
The Nectar Premiere and Premiere Copper are a good choice for sleepers who struggle with hot flashes or other symptoms of menopause, since the copper infusion helps them wick away moisture and distribute heat more evenly across the mattress. Similarly, the GhostBed Luxe is another top-rated model that’s known for its cooling powers and is made with seven individual cooling and comfort elements that help it to regulate temperature. It is a bit pricey, however, and may be out of the budget for some buyers. If you’re looking for a cooling mattress on a more limited budget, check out our picks at #4 and #5.