Reviews > Best Mattress For Heavier and Lighter People Based on 2,462 Actual Consumer Experiences Large people (230+ pounds) and small people (under 120 pounds) often have special mattress needs and should be aware of and understand the following five factors. The heavier a person is the more thickness they tend to need to support their weight. Sleeping on a mattress that is too thin for one's weight will often result in "bottoming out" and excessive pressure points, especially for side sleepers. For the internal makeup of a mattress, the support part or bottom portion of the mattress (whether it be springs, foam, latex, or air) should be at least six inches thick and ideally make up the majority (51%+) of overall mattress thickness. The lighter a person is the less mattress thickness they tend to need to support their weight. And because thinner mattresses are often less expensive than thicker ones, buying a thicker mattress than one needs can be a waste of money.
In addition, thicker / taller mattresses can be a challenge for smaller / shorter people to get on and off of. The chart shows the suitability of common mattress thicknesses for large and small people. A large person often prefers a mattress with medium-firm to firm firmness. Such a mattress tends to provide the extra support a large person needs especially if they are side or stomach sleepers. Also, a firmer mattress does not often feel overly firm to a large person because the person tends to exert enough pressure on the mattress to have it conform and contour to their body resulting in minimized pressure points. Learn more about which firmness may be best for your size, body type and sleep position. A small person often prefers a mattress with medium to soft firmness. A small person does not tend to exert enough pressure on a firmer mattress to allow it to conform and contour to their body; the result is often pressure points and discomfort. High-density mattress support is often best suited for a large person.
In regard to foam mattresses, this means high-density (1.8 lbs/ft or higher) base / support foam. In regard to innerspring mattresses, having high density mainly means that the coil count is dense or high, specifically 600 or more (queen). Unfortunately, density related specifications are not always provided by the manufacturer. A low-density mattress comfort layer is often best suited for a small person. This means having low-density (3.5 lbs/ft or lower) foam, including memory foam, in the comfort layer. Low-density foam often conforms more easily to a small person's body resulting in more comfort. Owner experience data suggests that there is some correlation between poor mattress durability / longevity and heavy sleeper weight. Therefore, large people should place extra emphasis on mattress durability / longevity and remember the following chart which compares the different mattress types on the issue of durability / longevity. Learn more: mattress lifespan comparison.
Mattress owner satisfaction rates are determined by a sample of mostly average sized-people (130-230 lbs). Therefore, large and small people should not necessarily assume that a popular or highly rated mattress will suit them. They should instead evaluate a mattress according to the points above.Side sleepers need a mattress that is supportive enough to keep the spine aligned and relieve pressure from pressure points. Side sleepers use a smaller body surface area, which needs a moderate amount of support, and generally prefer a softer mattress than other types of sleepers. Heavier side sleepers need a mattress that possesses firm supportive density but is soft enough to support the natural bumps and curves of the body. One major thing to consider when you purchase a mattress is your partner’s sleep type. What might be suitable for you may not fit your partner’s needs. You may be a side sleeper, while your partner may be a stomach sleeper, making your mattress needs different.
The good news is that several different mattresses can fit the needs of you and your partner. Mattresses are available in different sizes, styles and prices. Innerspring mattresses are the most popular bed types being sold in the U.S., partially due to the budget friendly price tag of $300 to $800 as of January 2011. Innerspring mattresses tend to hold less body heat and have a wide range of firmness. Heavy side sleepers should purchase a fairly firm mattress for support and add layers, such as a pillow top or memory foam to soften the surface area of the mattress. Innerspring mattresses should be replaced every 10 years because they are prone to sagging. Memory foam is a visco-elastic polyurethane foam that compresses when weight is added and slowly returns to former shape. Memory foam density mattresses are more recommended for side sleepers because they produce less resistance on muscles and joints, thus reducing pressure points. It also becomes softer as it becomes heated.
Memory foam mattresses are fairly expensive and cost between $800 and $2,000 or more, according to style and size, as of January 2011. Latex foam mattresses are eco-friendly and are made of biodegradable natural latex. It is springier than memory foam and doesn’t retain as much body heat. Latex foam is soft and will conform to the natural lines of the body. The bed foundation must be slatted instead of solid because mold can grow on the underneath side of the mattress. It is also more durable than an innerspring mattress. Latex mattresses are expensive. Expect to pay between $900 and $2,000 or more as of January 2011 depending on style and size. Air mattresses provide tailored support through adjustable air cushions within the mattress. Many air mattresses allow each side of the mattress to be adjusted according to personal comfort. This means that a side sleeper can have a softer mattress while their back sleeper partner can have a firmer mattress. Air mattress beds start at about $800 as of January 2011.
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