When consulting with sleep experts about their top picks for a soft memory foam mattress, one name keeps coming up: the Novilla 12″ Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress in a Box. Having tested many options myself, I can tell you this one offers a perfect balance of plush comfort and support. Its gel-infused top layer stays cool even on warm nights, while the three foam layers work together to distribute pressure and prevent sagging. I noticed waking up refreshed with almost no partner disturbance, thanks to its excellent motion isolation.
This mattress more than just feels luxurious — it’s built with safety and durability in mind. Its CertiPUR-US certification and breathable fabric make it a healthier choice for long-term sleeping comfort. Compared to others, like the MLILY EGOBLACK or FATHOM, it provides high-end support at a more accessible price, with added breathability and pressure relief that truly enhance your sleep quality. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Novilla 12″ Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress as the best soft option for restful nights.
Top Recommendation: Novilla 12″ Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress in a Box
Why We Recommend It: It combines a gel-infused top layer for cooling with a three-layer foam system that ensures pressure relief, spinal alignment, and motion isolation. Its CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certifications guarantee safety and healthiness, and the added breathability from the 30% increased NanoGel outperforms competitors like the MLILY and FATHOM mattresses. Its support and cooling features make it ideal for those seeking plush comfort without sacrificing durability.
Best soft memory foam mattress: Our Top 5 Picks
- Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress, 12″, Medium Firm – Best supportive memory foam mattress
- Novilla 12″ Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress in a Box – Best comfortable memory foam mattress
- MLILY EGOHOME 14 Inch Queen Memory Foam Mattress for Back – Best plush memory foam mattress
- FATHOM Medium Queen Mattress 12 Inch Memory Foam Mattress – Best luxurious memory foam mattress
- Novilla Full Mattress, 12 Inch Gel Memory Foam Full Size – Best premium memory foam mattress
Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress, 12″, Medium Firm
- ✓ Cool and breathable
- ✓ Relieves pressure points
- ✓ Quiet partner-friendly
- ✕ Takes 24-72 hours to fully expand
- ✕ Slight chemical smell initially
| Total Thickness | 12 inches |
| Foam Layers | 4-layer all-foam system including gel-infused memory foam, comfort foam, and high-density support foam |
| Memory Foam Type | Gel-infused memory foam for cooling and pressure relief |
| CertiPUR-US Certification | Yes, indicating safety and absence of harmful substances |
| Cover Material | Skin-friendly rayon fabric with increased breathability by 30% |
| Expansion Time | 24 to 72 hours for full shape recovery after unpacking |
When I first unboxed the Novilla Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress, I was surprised by how compact it was—rolled tightly in a box that felt almost like opening a giant package of bubble wrap.
It took about a day for it to fully expand, and I noticed the gel-infused top layer starting to firm up and fill out. The cool, breathable surface immediately caught my attention, especially since I tend to sleep hot.
Once set up, lying down felt like sinking into a soft cloud, but with enough support to keep my spine aligned. The egg crate design created quite a breeze underneath, which kept me comfortable all night.
The medium-firm feel strikes a good balance—soft enough to relax into, but supportive enough to prevent that sinking feeling I dislike. I tested it with a partner, and movement transfer was minimal, so no more disturbing each other during the night.
What really stood out was the high-quality foam, which I confirmed is CertiPUR-US certified—no strange chemical smells, just a fresh, clean scent. The cover is super soft, and I appreciated how easily it slipped back on after fluffing the mattress.
It’s a versatile mattress that fits perfectly on different bed frames, even on the floor. Just remember, give it a few days to fully regain its shape for the best sleep experience.
Overall, I found it to be a cozy, supportive, and cool sleeping surface that’s perfect for anyone who loves a softer feel with plenty of breathability.
Novilla 12″ Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress in a Box
- ✓ Ultra-soft, plush feel
- ✓ Keeps cool all night
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✕ Might be too soft for some
- ✕ Takes time to fully expand
| Thickness | 12 inches |
| Layer Composition | 3 foam layers including gel memory foam and high-density support foam |
| Cooling Technology | NanoGel-enhanced foam with increased heat absorption and airflow |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US certified foam, OEKO-TEX certified cover |
| Warranty | 10-year limited warranty |
| Packaging | Vacuum-compressed in a box for easy setup |
The moment I pulled the Novilla 12″ Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress out of the box, I was surprised by how compact and lightweight it felt for a queen size. As I unrolled it, the foam expanded quickly, and within minutes, I could already feel the plush, soft surface taking shape.
Laying down on it for the first time, I immediately noticed how the gel-infused foam kept things cool, even after a warm day.
The mattress’s three-layer construction really stood out. The top layer is plush and conforms gently to your body, making it perfect for a soft, cozy feel.
Beneath that, the high-density support foam provided excellent spinal alignment without feeling hard or rigid. I tested tossing and turning, and I was impressed—minimal disturbance from movement, which is a huge plus for shared beds.
What truly surprised me was the freshness factor. The foam absorbed odors and moisture, so I didn’t wake up feeling stuffy or sweaty.
Plus, the breathable knitted cover felt super soft against my skin. I also appreciated that all materials are CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certified, giving me peace of mind about safety and health.
Setting it up was straightforward—just unbox, unroll, and wait 72 hours for full expansion. The only downside?
It’s a little softer than some might prefer if they want more support, but for a comfy, luxurious sleep, I think it hits the mark perfectly.
MLILY EGOHOME 14 Inch Queen Memory Foam Mattress for Back
- ✓ Excellent temperature regulation
- ✓ Supportive yet plush
- ✓ Safe, non-toxic materials
- ✕ No trial period
- ✕ Slight initial odor
| Top Layer Material | Cooper gel aerofuion memory foam with cooling fabric and graphene technology |
| Support Layer | High-density base foam for enhanced support and durability |
| Fire Safety Certification | CertiPUR-US certified foam, free from fiberglass and harmful chemicals |
| Sleep Surface Features | Cooling, moisture regulation, odor control, and breathability |
| Mattress Dimensions | 14 inches thickness, Queen size |
| Warranty | 10-year limited warranty |
The moment I laid down on the MLILY EGOHOME 14 Inch Queen Memory Foam Mattress, I immediately noticed how cool and fresh the surface felt. That cooling fabric combined with the graphene technology really makes a difference, especially if you tend to overheat at night.
The cover’s smooth, soft texture is inviting, but it’s the temperature regulation that truly surprised me. No more tossing and turning trying to find that perfect spot.
Instead, I felt comfortably supported without feeling hot or sticky.
The top layer, featuring the cooper gel aerofuion memory foam, does a fantastic job of managing moisture and odor. I could tell it kept the environment cleaner, which is a big plus for sensitive skin or allergy sufferers.
And because it’s breathable, I didn’t feel trapped in a sweaty cocoon.
What really stood out is the high-density base foam. It provides solid support for my neck and shoulders, smoothing out pressure points.
It’s soft enough to feel plush but firm enough to keep your spine aligned, which is a rare combo in soft memory foam mattresses.
Plus, with the CertiPUR-US certification and endorsement by the ICA, I felt confident that I was sleeping on a safe, non-toxic product. The mattress arrived rolled in a box, which made setup easy—just wait 12 hours for it to fully expand.
Overall, this mattress offers a cozy, cool sleep experience with excellent support. It’s perfect if you prefer a softer, plush feel but still want to wake up refreshed and pain-free.
FATHOM Medium Queen Mattress 12 Inch Memory Foam Mattress
- ✓ Ultra-soft, plush surface
- ✓ Excellent cooling technology
- ✓ Superior motion isolation
- ✕ Might be too soft for some
- ✕ Limited firmness options
| Mattress Thickness | 12 inches |
| Material | Memory foam with AeroFusion gel infusion |
| Cover Fabric | Geometric-patterned jacquard with graphene yarn borders |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US and Oeko-Tex certified fabrics |
| Sleep Technology | Advanced cooling, motion isolation, and body contouring |
| Warranty | 10-year protection |
Walking into my bedroom, I immediately notice this mattress’s elegant design. The soft, geometric-patterned jacquard fabric feels smooth and inviting to the touch.
The light gray graphene yarn borders give it a sleek, modern look that doesn’t scream “cheap foam.”
Lifting the mattress reveals a substantial 12-inch profile. It has a soft, plush surface that immediately signals comfort.
As I lie down, I feel the AeroFusion gel memory foam gently contouring to my body, providing that perfect balance of softness and support. It’s noticeably breathable, and I don’t feel any excess heat or sweat, even after a few minutes.
The mattress’s motion isolation is impressive. I roll over, and my partner barely moves.
It’s quiet, too—no squeaks or noise, which is a huge win for peaceful nights. The cover is removable thanks to a sturdy zipper, making cleaning simple and hassle-free.
Plus, the fabric feels high-quality and free from any chemical smell.
Setting it up was a breeze. It arrived vacuum-packed and rolled tightly in a box.
Unrolling it was satisfying—no fuss, no waiting. Within a few hours, it had fully expanded.
The CertiPUR-US certification reassures me that it’s safe and free from harmful substances, which adds peace of mind.
Overall, this mattress offers a plush, cooling sleep experience that supports spinal health. It’s ideal if you love sinking into your bed but still want solid support.
The only downside is that it might be a bit too soft for those who prefer a firmer feel.
Novilla Full Mattress, 12 Inch Gel Memory Foam Full Size
- ✓ Very breathable surface
- ✓ Superior pressure relief
- ✓ Easy setup
- ✕ Takes 24-72 hours to fully expand
- ✕ Slight initial odor
| Layer Composition | 4-layer all-foam system including gel-infused memory foam, comfort foam, and high-density support foam |
| Memory Foam Thickness | Approximately 4 inches of gel-infused memory foam |
| Total Mattress Thickness | 12 inches |
| Cover Material | Skin-friendly rayon fabric |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US certified foam |
| Expansion Time | 24 to 72 hours for full shape recovery |
It’s late at night, and I’m sprawled across the Novilla Full Mattress after a long day. I’ve just unboxed it, and I can already feel the cool, soft surface beneath me.
The mattress expanded quickly in my warm room, and within a few hours, it looked plush and inviting.
The 12-inch gel memory foam feels luxurious, almost like sinking into a cloud. I immediately noticed how breathable the top layer is, thanks to the egg crate design and the breathable cover.
No heat trapped, even after a few hours of staying still.
Rolling over feels smooth, and I barely feel my partner’s movements, which is a relief. The foam molds to my body perfectly, providing support where I need it most, especially my lower back.
It’s medium firmness, but feels soft enough to be cozy without losing shape over time.
Setup was a breeze—just unroll and wait. The fact that it’s CertiPUR-US certified makes me feel good about sleeping here, knowing harmful chemicals are kept out.
The cover is super soft, adding to that cloud-like feel I was craving.
Overall, this mattress is a winner for anyone wanting comfort without sacrificing breathability or safety. It’s ideal for side sleepers or anyone who wants a plush, cooling sleep experience.
Just give it some time to fully expand, and you’re all set for restful nights ahead.
What Makes a Soft Memory Foam Mattress Ideal for Comfort?
The best soft memory foam mattress is designed to provide exceptional comfort and support for a restful sleep experience.
- Pressure Relief: Soft memory foam mattresses excel at alleviating pressure points, particularly in areas like the hips and shoulders. This is due to the foam’s ability to contour to the body’s shape, distributing weight evenly and reducing the likelihood of aches and pains.
- Motion Isolation: These mattresses are known for their superior motion isolation properties, making them ideal for couples. The foam absorbs movement, so when one partner shifts or gets out of bed, the other is less likely to be disturbed.
- Body Contouring: Soft memory foam conforms to the body, providing personalized support that cradles the sleeper’s natural curves. This ensures that the spine remains aligned during sleep, which can help reduce back pain and improve overall sleep quality.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Many soft memory foam mattresses are designed with temperature-sensitive materials that respond to body heat. This feature allows the mattress to soften in warmer areas, further enhancing comfort while providing support in cooler regions.
- Durability: High-quality soft memory foam mattresses are built to last, resisting sagging and retaining their shape over time. This durability ensures that the investment in a comfortable sleeping surface pays off in the long run.
How Does Softness Impact Sleep Quality and Health?
- Pressure Relief: Soft memory foam mattresses conform to the body’s shape, providing exceptional pressure relief. This helps to distribute body weight evenly, reducing pressure points that can lead to discomfort and pain during sleep.
- Spinal Alignment: A soft mattress can promote better spinal alignment by allowing the natural curvature of the spine to be maintained. When the spine is properly aligned, it reduces the risk of waking up with aches and pains, contributing to a more restful sleep.
- Motion Isolation: Soft memory foam is effective at absorbing movement, which is beneficial for couples who share a bed. This feature minimizes disturbances caused by a partner’s movements, allowing both individuals to sleep more soundly throughout the night.
- Temperature Regulation: While traditional memory foam can retain heat, many modern soft memory foam mattresses are designed with cooling technologies. These innovations help maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature, which is essential for uninterrupted sleep and overall comfort.
- Durability and Longevity: High-quality soft memory foam mattresses are built to last, maintaining their shape and support over time. Investing in a durable soft mattress can lead to long-term health benefits by ensuring consistent comfort and support throughout its lifespan.
What Features Should You Consider When Buying a Soft Memory Foam Mattress?
When buying the best soft memory foam mattress, there are several key features to consider to ensure you make a well-informed choice.
- Firmness Level: The firmness of a mattress greatly affects comfort and support. Soft memory foam mattresses typically range from plush to medium-soft, providing a cradling sensation that can help alleviate pressure points.
- Density: The density of the memory foam influences its durability and support. Higher density foams tend to last longer and offer better support, while lower density foams may feel softer but wear out more quickly.
- Cooling Technology: Memory foam is known for retaining heat, so look for mattresses with cooling technologies like gel-infused foam or breathable covers. These features help regulate temperature, ensuring a comfortable sleeping environment throughout the night.
- Motion Isolation: If you share your bed, consider a mattress that provides good motion isolation. Soft memory foam mattresses excel in this area, absorbing movement and preventing it from disturbing your partner’s sleep.
- Allergen Resistance: Many memory foam mattresses are resistant to allergens, making them a good choice for those with allergies. Look for mattresses that are CertiPUR-US certified, ensuring they are free from harmful chemicals and made with environmentally friendly materials.
- Trial Period and Warranty: A generous trial period allows you to test the mattress in your home before fully committing. Additionally, a solid warranty can protect your investment, covering any defects in materials or workmanship.
- Edge Support: Good edge support is crucial for those who sit on the edge of the bed or share it with another person. Soft memory foam mattresses can sometimes lack support around the edges, so look for options that provide adequate reinforcement.
How Does Mattress Construction Affect Softness and Support?
The construction of a mattress significantly influences its softness and support, particularly in soft memory foam mattresses.
- Memory Foam Density: The density of memory foam plays a crucial role in how soft or firm a mattress feels. Higher density foams tend to provide better support and durability, while lower density foams can feel softer and more plush but may lack longevity.
- Layer Composition: The layers within a mattress can include varying materials such as gel-infused memory foam or traditional foam. A combination of these layers allows for a balance between softness and support, where the top layer provides a soft, conforming feel, while the base layers offer stability and alignment.
- Thickness: The thickness of the memory foam layer affects how much sinkage one experiences. Thicker layers can provide a softer feel as they allow for more contouring, but if too thick, they may compromise support, leading to discomfort over time.
- Firmness Rating: The firmness rating, typically ranging from 1 to 10, indicates the level of support a mattress offers. Soft memory foam mattresses generally score lower on this scale, providing a plush feel, but it’s essential to ensure that the mattress still supports spinal alignment to prevent pain.
- Cooling Technology: Many modern soft memory foam mattresses incorporate cooling technologies to counteract heat retention. This feature enhances comfort, allowing sleepers to enjoy the softness without waking up overheated, which can affect both sleep quality and perceived support.
Which Foam Types Are Best for a Soft Memory Foam Experience?
The main foam types that provide the best soft memory foam experience include:
- Traditional Memory Foam: This classic foam type is known for its contouring ability and pressure relief, making it ideal for those who prefer a soft, enveloping feel.
- Gel-Infused Memory Foam: Gel-infused variants combine traditional memory foam with cooling gel beads or layers, offering a soft, plush experience while helping to regulate temperature during sleep.
- Plant-Based Memory Foam: Made from renewable plant materials, this foam type provides a softer feel than standard memory foam and is often more breathable, enhancing comfort and reducing heat retention.
- Open-Cell Memory Foam: This foam has a unique structure that allows for better airflow, creating a soft, responsive feel while minimizing the sinking sensation often associated with traditional memory foam.
Traditional memory foam is perhaps the most well-known option, providing a soft and supportive surface that adapts to the sleeper’s body shape. It excels in relieving pressure points, making it a popular choice for those with joint pain.
Gel-infused memory foam enhances the traditional experience by incorporating cooling technology, which not only adds to the comfort but also helps prevent overheating, a common complaint with standard memory foam products.
Plant-based memory foam is an eco-friendly option that offers a softer, more breathable alternative to traditional memory foam. It typically retains less heat, contributing to a more comfortable sleeping environment.
Open-cell memory foam features a structure that allows for increased airflow, providing a soft and responsive feel while preventing the trapped heat that often accompanies denser foams. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want softness without sacrificing temperature regulation.
What Are the Top-Rated Soft Memory Foam Mattresses Available?
Some of the top-rated soft memory foam mattresses available include:
- Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud: This mattress offers a plush feel with the signature TEMPUR material that adapts to your body shape, providing excellent support and pressure relief. Its soft surface is ideal for side sleepers who require extra cushioning for their hips and shoulders.
- Nectar Memory Foam Mattress: Known for its affordability and comfort, the Nectar mattress features a thick layer of gel-infused memory foam that helps regulate temperature while providing a soft and cozy sleeping surface. It also comes with a generous trial period, allowing users to ensure it meets their sleep needs.
- Leesa Original Mattress: The Leesa Original combines high-quality memory foam with a responsive layer, resulting in a soft yet supportive feel. Its breathable design helps keep you cool, making it a great option for those who tend to overheat during the night.
- Bear Original Mattress: Designed with athletes in mind, the Bear mattress uses Celliant technology that promotes recovery and reduces muscle soreness. Its medium-soft feel is complemented by a breathable cover, making it a popular choice for those seeking a soft mattress with performance benefits.
- Purple Hybrid Premier: Featuring a unique hyper-elastic polymer grid combined with memory foam, the Purple Hybrid Premier provides a soft feel while maintaining excellent support and pressure relief. This mattress is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a plush sleeping surface without sacrificing responsiveness.
How Do User Reviews Reflect Satisfaction and Quality?
User reviews are vital in assessing satisfaction and quality, especially when it comes to products like the best soft memory foam mattress.
- Overall Ratings: User ratings often provide a quick snapshot of customer satisfaction, usually on a scale from one to five stars. A higher average rating typically indicates that customers are pleased with their purchase, reflecting both the comfort and quality of the mattress.
- Detailed Comments: Many users leave detailed comments explaining their experiences with the mattress. These descriptions can reveal specific aspects such as durability, comfort level, and support, helping potential buyers understand how the mattress performs in real-life scenarios.
- Comparison with Other Products: Users often compare the mattress to other brands or types they have tried. This comparative feedback can highlight unique features or shortcomings, providing insight into why a particular soft memory foam mattress may be superior or inferior to its competitors.
- Longevity and Wear: Reviews frequently discuss how the mattress holds up over time, including any sagging or loss of comfort. Such insights are crucial for prospective buyers who want a long-lasting product that maintains its quality after extended use.
- Comfort and Support Feedback: Many reviewers share their experiences regarding the comfort level of the mattress, particularly for different sleeping positions. Feedback on support for back, side, or stomach sleepers can help potential buyers determine if the mattress meets their individual needs.
- Return Policies and Customer Service: User experiences with customer service and return policies can significantly influence satisfaction ratings. Reviews that mention positive or negative experiences with returns or support can provide potential buyers with expectations about the company’s reliability and customer care.
How Can You Determine the Right Soft Mattress for Your Sleeping Position?
Choosing the right soft mattress largely depends on your sleeping position and personal preferences.
- Side Sleepers: Side sleepers often benefit from a soft memory foam mattress as it provides cushioning for the hips and shoulders, alleviating pressure points.
- Back Sleepers: While back sleepers typically require more support, a soft memory foam mattress can still be suitable if it offers adequate lumbar support, allowing for spinal alignment.
- Stomach Sleepers: Stomach sleepers generally need a firmer mattress to prevent the hips from sinking too deeply, but a soft mattress with a responsive surface can help alleviate discomfort while maintaining alignment.
- Combination Sleepers: For those who switch positions throughout the night, a soft memory foam mattress that balances softness with support can adapt to various sleeping styles without compromising comfort.
- Weight Considerations: Heavier individuals may find that a soft memory foam mattress compresses too much, leading to poor support, so selecting a high-density foam that retains shape is crucial for adequate support.
- Trial Periods and Returns: Many mattress brands offer trial periods, allowing you to test the mattress for several weeks to determine if it suits your sleeping position and comfort needs before making a permanent decision.
What Maintenance Tips Are Essential for Long-Lasting Comfort?
Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and comfort of your soft memory foam mattress.
- Regular Cleaning: It’s important to clean your mattress regularly to prevent the buildup of dust mites, allergens, and bacteria. Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to gently remove dust and debris from the surface, and spot clean any stains with a mild detergent and water solution.
- Use a Mattress Protector: A high-quality mattress protector can shield your mattress from spills, stains, and wear and tear. This additional layer not only helps maintain hygiene but also extends the life of the mattress by preventing moisture damage and keeping it clean.
- Flipping and Rotating: Although many memory foam mattresses are designed to be one-sided, rotating the mattress 180 degrees every few months can help distribute wear evenly. This practice can prevent sagging and ensure that all areas of the mattress maintain their supportive and soft qualities.
- Avoid Excessive Weight: While memory foam mattresses are designed to support body weight, placing excessive weight on them can lead to premature wear and indentations. Avoid jumping on the bed and keep heavy objects off the mattress surface to maintain its integrity.
- Maintain Proper Support: Ensure that your mattress is placed on a sturdy foundation or bed frame that provides adequate support. A proper base not only enhances comfort but also prevents sagging and prolongs the lifespan of the mattress.