What Is The Softest Mattress? Understanding Ultra-Plush Beds and Whether They’re Right for You

If you’re searching for “What Is The Softest Mattress”, you’re likely trying to figure out what “soft” really means, how soft a mattress can reasonably be, and whether that feel is a good match for your body and sleep style. This guide explains how mattress softness is measured, what makes a mattress feel ultra-plush, and how to choose (and care for) a very soft bed.

What Does “Softest Mattress” Actually Mean?

When people ask “What Is The Softest Mattress”, they are usually asking about the plushest, most cushioned feel available.

Mattress softness is often described using a firmness scale from 1 to 10:

• 1–2: Ultra-soft / extra plush
• 3–4: Soft / plush
• 5–7: Medium to medium-firm
• 8–10: Firm to extra firm

The softest mattresses fall at the very bottom of this scale (around 1–2). These beds allow your body to sink in deeply, with a strong “cradling” sensation and very little pushback on the surface.

What Makes a Mattress Feel So Soft?

The softest mattresses usually have:

• Thick comfort layers (often several inches of foam or cushioning materials)
• Less dense or more flexible comfort foams, which compress more easily
• Plush quilting or pillow-top designs that add a cloud-like top layer
• Less rigid support cores, or support structures that allow more give near the surface

The top layers matter most for how soft a mattress feels. Even if a bed has a strong support core, a thick, plush comfort layer can still create a very soft initial feel.

Is a Softer Mattress Better for Side Sleepers?

Many side sleepers wonder “What Is The Softest Mattress level I should choose?”

Side sleepers often prefer soft to medium-soft mattresses because they:

• Allow the shoulders and hips to sink in more comfortably
• Reduce sharp pressure points against the mattress
• Create a more cushioned surface for curved areas of the body

However, the softest possible mattress (ultra-soft) may not suit every side sleeper. Some people find that too much sink makes it harder to move or keep a neutral posture. A soft (3–4) rather than ultra-soft (1–2) feel is often a more balanced choice.

Can a Mattress Be Too Soft?

Yes. While “softest” can sound appealing, a mattress can be too soft for some sleepers.

Common signs a mattress may be too soft include:

• You feel like you are “bottoming out” onto the support layer beneath
• Your body sinks more in the middle than at the edges, creating a hammock-like feel
• It feels difficult to change positions during the night
• The mattress develops impressions or sagging more quickly than expected

A very soft mattress may work best for lighter-weight sleepers or those who strongly prefer a deep, enveloping feel. Heavier sleepers often benefit from a bit more firmness to maintain better support over time.

Types of Mattresses That Tend to Feel Softest

Here is a simple overview of which common mattress types are most likely to achieve an ultra-plush feel:

All-foam mattresses most commonly reach the softest levels, especially when they use thick, low-density comfort layers. Hybrids can also feel very plush when they include a thick, soft pillow-top.

How Do I Know If the Softest Mattress Is Right for Me?

Ask yourself these questions:

• What is my sleeping position?

  • Side sleepers often do best with soft to medium-soft.
  • Back and stomach sleepers more often prefer medium to firmer options to limit sinking.

• What is my body weight and build?

  • Lighter individuals often experience mattresses as firmer and may appreciate a very soft feel.
  • Heavier individuals may sink deeper and might find ultra-soft beds less supportive.

• How much “hug” do I like?

  • If you enjoy feeling like you’re being gently wrapped by the mattress, a softer bed fits that profile.
  • If you prefer to feel on top of the mattress rather than in it, a medium or firmer feel may be better.

How Can I Keep a Very Soft Mattress Comfortable Over Time?

Soft mattresses can change feel over the years. To help maintain comfort and support:

• Rotate the mattress regularly (if the design allows) to spread out wear.
• Use a supportive base that keeps the mattress level and stable.
• Avoid placing heavy, concentrated weight on one small area for long periods.
• Consider a mattress protector to guard against moisture and spills, which can affect materials over time.

These habits can help your soft mattress keep its plush feel longer and reduce the chance of early impressions.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about What Is The Softest Mattress

• “What Is The Softest Mattress” generally refers to beds at the very bottom of the firmness scale (around 1–2/10).
• The softest mattresses use thick, plush comfort layers that allow deep sinking and a strong cradling sensation.
• All-foam and some pillow-top hybrid designs are most likely to achieve ultra-soft feels.
• A mattress can be too soft if you feel you are sagging, struggling to move, or losing a sense of stable support.
• Side sleepers and lighter-weight individuals often enjoy softer feels, but the ultra-softest option is not ideal for everyone.
• Long-term comfort on a very soft mattress depends on proper support, rotation, and everyday care.

Understanding what truly defines the softest mattress helps you move beyond the label “plush” and choose a bed that feels comfortable, supportive, and well-matched to how you actually sleep.