The average body weight in the US has fluctuated over the past few decades, and many mattress brands have responded to the change with durable beds that support larger bodies. Mattresses that accommodate heavyweight sleepers tend to be medium-firm to firm to reduce the uncomfortable sinkage these sleepers often experience. However, this comfort level may not work for petite sleepers.When lightweight sleepers rest on a mattress that is too firm, it can cause painful pressure points to form near the joints. These sleepers need a bed that is softer and offers more compression to keep the curves of the body protected and cushioned.If you are a petite sleeper, there are several mattresses available that will help you sleep in a comfortable and supportive position, so you wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day. Below, we outline some of the best mattresses for petite sleepers. Plus, we include important points to consider as you shop for the perfect new bed.Best Mattresses for Petite Sleepers 2025MattressHighlightsPrice (Queen)Amerisleep AS5Soft comfort layer is perfect for petite side and combination sleepers.$1699Amerisleep AS3 HybridMedium firmness and a base of pocketed spring coils give the bed a slight bounce.$1349Zoma MattressTransition layer with Triangulex™ technology protects the joints from pressure points.$799Vaya MattressTwo hypoallergenic foam layers work together to provide a balance of comfort and support.$599Nest Bedding Alexander SignatureQuantum Edge Support® reduces motion transfer which is perfect for couples.$1599Purple®Purple Grid™ immediately responds to pressure for a support sleep position.$1149 Best Mattress for Petite Sleepers: Amerisleep AS5 Price: $1649-$3398Mattress Type: Memory foamMattress Height: 14 inchesFirmness: Soft (3 on the firmness scale)Best for side sleepers of any body typeAvailable in twin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, California king, and split king Warranty 20 Years Sleep Trial 100 Nights Shipping FreeMattress featuresThick, cushioning Bio-Pur® foam establishes a soft feel.Support zones for head, shoulders, back, hips, feet from HIVE® technology.Bio-Core® provides sturdy support, limiting premature sagging.Recommended for...Side sleepers on the smaller side looking for a soft mattress.Petite combination sleepers looking for a responsive yet soft mattress.Sleepers who want a mattress with targeted support.Save $300 on the Amerisleep AS5 with our discount code. Claim Deal 9.0 Overall Score 8 Value 10 Edge Support 9 Trial Period 8 Response Time 9 Motion Transfer 10 Cooling & BreathabilityFor petite sleepers who prefer side sleeping or for those who tend to toss and turn during the night, we recommend the Amerisleep AS5. This mattress has a soft comfort level that is soft enough to cushion the joints. The bed also has a zoned support system that protects the lumbar region and ensures you wake with fewer aches and pains.Amerisleep offers a lineup of advanced mattresses, ranging from soft to firm to accommodate various sleep positions and body types. We choose to focus on the AS5, the company’s softest mattress.Amerisleep backs the quality and construction of each of their mattresses with a 20-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects. Plus, you can take advantage of their 100-night sleep trial to test out the bed and make sure it is right for you.The cover of the AS5 is made with an ultra-soft, breathable material that creates a comfortable and inviting sleep space. This cover wraps around three unique layers of foam.The top of the mattress features Amerisleep’s Bio-Pur® layer, a plant-based memory foam that has more natural breathability than traditional memory foam varieties.By removing a portion of the petroleum-based oils from the foam and replacing them with plant-based oils, Amerisleep can produce a material that is non-toxic, eco-friendly, and won’t retain body heat the way most synthetic materials do. Plus, this foam has more responsiveness than standard memory foams so it molds to the body with very little pressure, which is perfect for lightweight sleepers.Next is a layer of Active Flex. The purpose of this material to deepen the mattress’s compression and responsiveness without reducing its soft feel. Active Flex lives up to its name by flexing under the body.Adaptive foam with HIVE® technology makes up the transition layer of the AS5. Hundreds of cutouts along the surface of this foam respond to each area of the body. For example, cutouts are closer together and firmer near the lumbar spine. Near the hips and shoulders, cutouts are further apart and offer more compression to keep the joints cushioned.The base of the AS5 is made with Amerisleep’s Bio-Core® foam, a sturdy support foam that guards against sagging and indentations to maintain the structure and integrity of the mattress.SEE ALSO: Amerisleep Mattress Reviews Best Mattress for Petite Back and Stomach Sleepers: Amerisleep AS3 Hybrid Price: $1149-$2398Mattress Type: HybridMattress Height: 12 inchesFirmness: Medium (5 on the firmness scale)Best for lightweight sleepers who favor their backs or stomachsAvailable in twin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, California king, and split king Warranty 10 Years Sleep Trial 100 Nights Shipping FreeMattress featuresBio-Pur® conforms to the body, relieving pressure and staying cool.Pocketed coils buoy the body, preventing spinal misalignment.Base foam provides a strong underlying structure, supporting the coils.Recommended for...Couples looking for a mattress they can share, particularly if they have different body types.Petite sleepers looking for a medium feel mattress.Back and stomach sleepers looking for a pressure-relieving mattress.Save $300 on the Amerisleep AS3 Hybrid with our discount code. Claim Deal 9.3 Overall Score 9 Value 10 Edge Support 9 Trial Period 9 Response Time 9 Motion Transfer 10 Cooling & BreathabilityAmerisleep’s AS3 Hybrid is made with a combination of their plant-based memory foam and a base of pocketed spring coils. This mattress has a medium comfort layer and a slight bounce perfect for petite sleepers who prefer back or stomach sleeping.The comfort layer of the AS3 is made with Amerisleep’s plant-based Bio-Pur® foam. In the AS3 Hybrid, this material offers a perfect balance between soft and firm to keep the spine resting in a safe, neutral position, while also protecting the joints from pressure points.Beneath the comfort layer is a base of pocketed spring coils that are zoned to react differently to pressure. Near the heaviest parts of the body, these coils are thinner and compress easily when body weight is applied. Along the back, coils are thicker and offer more stability to reduce excessive sinking.This base has a slight bounce, which makes it easier to get in and out of bed or to change positions throughout the night. Reinforce edge support around the perimeter of the base also helps to reduce motion transfer across the surface of the bed, which is perfect for couples with different sleep schedules.As with all of their mattresses, Amerisleep includes a 20-year warranty to ensure the bed supports you correctly. You can also make sure the AS3 Hybrid is right for you with their 100-night sleep trial. Best Cooling Mattress for Petite Sleepers: Zoma Mattress Price: $499-$1198Mattress Type: Memory foamMattress Height: 11 inchesFirmness: Medium (5 on the firmness scale)Best for lightweight sleepers whose body temperatures run hotAvailable in twin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, California king, and split king Warranty 10 Years Sleep Trial 100 Nights Shipping FreeMattress featuresGel infusions wick heat away from the sleeper’s body.Reactiv™ foam responds to a petite sleeper’s movements, keeping them from feeling stuckSupport+ foam ensures optimal spine alignment and resists sagging.Recommended for...Petite shoppers looking for a conforming mattress that stays cool.Back, side, and combination sleepers.Petite sleepers looking for an affordable mattress with restorative features.Save $150 on the Zoma Mattress with our discount code. Claim Deal If you are a petite sleeper who tends to heat up during the night, we recommend the Zoma Mattress. This mattress features several cooling features that help reduce night sweats and overheating, including a breathable cover and gel-infused memory foam. Plus, it has a medium comfort level that is ideal for petite sleepers.The cover of the Zoma Mattress is made with a stretch-knit fabric that responds quickly to movement to keep you cradled and supported. This material is also ventilated to keep air flowing across the surface of the mattress.The Zoma’s top layer is made with their gel-infused memory foam with Triangulex™ technology. This foam features triangular cutouts near sensitive areas to provide pressure-free support. Near the lower back, this material is slightly firmer to keep the lower back lifted and aligned with the hips and shoulders. The gel microbeads in this foam pull heat and moisture away from the surface of the bed, so there is very little heat retention and the mattress always stays cool to the touch.The transition layer of the Zoma features their Reactiv™ foam, a highly responsive material that keeps petite sleepers lifted and resting in a safe, comfortable position that reduces pressure on the spine. This material also has good motion isolation, which couples will enjoy.The base of the Zoma is made with their Support+ foam, a durable, high-density foam that ensures the soft layers above don’t develop indentations.The Zoma Mattress comes with a 10-year warranty and a 100-night sleep trial. If you test out the Zoma and determine that the comfort and support are not right for you, Zoma will provide a full refund.SEE ALSO: Most Comfortable Mattress Most Affordable Mattress for Petite Sleepers: Vaya Mattress Price: $349-$799Mattress Type: FoamMattress Height: 12 inchesFirmness: Medium (5 on the firmness scale)Best for lightweight sleepers on a tight budgetAvailable in twin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, and California king Warranty 10 Years Sleep Trial 100 Nights Shipping FreeMattress featuresConforming layer of Vaya Comfort Foam molds to petite individuals for pressure releif.Vaya Base Foam supports smaller sleepers without creating a too-firm feeling.Soft, breathable knit cover promotes a cool mattress surface.Recommended for...Petite sleepers shopping for a mattress on a budget.Smaller individuals of all sleeping styles.Petite sleepers looking for a mattress they can comfortably share with a partner.Save $300 on the Vaya Mattress with our discount code. Claim Deal 8.7 Overall Score 10 Value 7 Edge Support 9 Trial Period 9 Response Time 9 Motion Transfer 8 Cooling & BreathabilityThe Vaya Mattress is an affordable, yet advanced memory foam mattress with a medium firmness. Petite sleepers who prefer side sleeping will find the plush feel of the Vaya both comforting and supportive.With a soft, ventilated cover, the Vaya Mattress keeps you cool yet cozy. Beneath this cover is a top layer made with Vaya’s proprietary memory foam. Unlike traditional memory foams, this material has more breathability and an elastic quality that gives it a slight bounce.When resting on the Vaya Mattress, lightweight sleepers will experience the perfect amount of sinking to cushion the joints. However, the responsiveness of this material will also prevent over-sinking, which can force the spine out of alignment with the hips and shoulders.Supporting this layer is a base of high-density foam that is durable enough to prevent sagging. Both foam layers of the Vaya come with a CertiPUR-US® certification that ensures the mattress is free of harmful additives that could irritate the lungs or skin.This mattress comes with a 100-night sleep trial, plus free returns and free shipping. Vaya’s 10-year warranty also covers manufacturing defects, guaranteeing this bed will support you and keep you comfortable for many years.5. Nest Bedding Alexander Signature Hybrid MattressBest Eco-Friendly Mattress for Petite SleepersNest Bedding’s Alexander Signature is a memory foam hybrid mattress that comes in three firmness options, medium, luxury firm, and plush. For petite sleepers, we recommend the plush option since this mattress will have a medium-soft firmness. This model will be soft enough to provide lightweight individuals with adequate contouring.The cover of the Alexander Signature is made of a quilted thermic phase-changing material. This material absorbs heat and wicks it away from the surface of the bed to prevent heat-trapping. The comfort layer of this mattress is made with Nest’s Energex™ Foam, which features a gel infusion. This material ensures the entire surface of the bed stays cool and comfortable throughout the night.An 8 inch base of pocketed spring coils makes up the bottom of this mattress. These coils are wrapped in fabric for added comfort and more accurate contouring. This base also features Quantum Edge® Support, which reduces motion transfer and ensures the edges of the mattress remain stable.Nest Bedding offers a 100-night sleep trial that allows you to test out the bed at home. They also include a lifetime warranty that covers sagging and indentations greater than 1 inch.6. Purple® MattressBest Mattress for Petite Sleepers With Pain Purple now offers three different mattress options, but their original model remains the most popular and the most versatile option. This bed features Purple’s unique Purple Grid™ and two layers of foam to provide a truly weightless sleep experience.The cover of the Purple® Mattress features a knit fabric that offers more airflow and flexibility. The elastic quality of this material ensures that you always feel the supportive Purple Grid™ beneath.This grid is made with a Hyper-Elastic Polymer™ that responds immediately to pressure to cradle joints and support the lower back. Air channels throughout the grid also help to reduce overheating and sleep disruptions.Beneath the Purple Grid™ is a soft poly-foam, which offers more cushioning and protection for the joints. This layer is supported by a stronger, high-density poly-foam that increases durability, so the mattress is less likely to develop indentations.Purple offers their 100-night No Pressure® Guarantee, which lets you test out the mattress risk-free. They also include a 10-year warranty to cover manufacturing defects such as rips, tears, or sagging.SEE ALSO: The Best Place to Buy a Mattress & 7 In-Store MythsOther Things to ConsiderIf you are a lightweight or petite sleeper, there are a few things you should keep in mind when shopping for the best mattress. Below, we discuss the most popular types of mattresses, as well as the best mattress firmness for petite individuals.Best Mattress Types of Petite SleepersThe layers and materials in a mattress can determine the comfort it provides. Memory foam, latex foam, hybrid mattresses, and innerspring mattresses are among the most popular options. However, not all of these mattress types are suitable for petite sleepers.Memory FoamMemory foam is often used in the comfort layer of the mattress to contour to the body and relieve pressure. This material hugs the joints so muscles can fully relax and rebuild during sleep. Memory foam mattresses are perfect for petite sleepers because they respond quickly to even the slightest bit of pressure—allowing for adequate contouring and comfort. Plus, memory foam comes in a variety of firmness options, so it is easy for lightweight and petite sleepers to find a model that fits their needs.When shopping for a memory foam mattress, it is best to opt for plant-based foam. Traditionally memory foam tends to trap heat and may offer excessive sinking, which can throw the spine out of alignment. However, the high-quality plant-based foam should have natural breathability and more responsiveness to prevent uncomfortable sinking.Latex FoamLike memory foam, latex foam also contours to the body with no pressure—allowing for a weightless sleep. Although most latex varieties have a medium to medium-firm feel, this material can also be made to feel very soft or very firm.However, latex foam does have a natural elasticity that gives it more of a bounce. For petite sleepers who prefer to feel lifted on the mattress, rather than cradled, a latex foam mattress may be suitable. When opting for latex, we suggest that petite sleepers purchase one with a soft to medium-soft feel. This comfort level will keep pressure from building up near the joints.HybridA hybrid mattress is made up of 2 to 3 inches of foam, typically memory or latex, and a base of pocketed spring coils. This combination affords sleepers the pressure relief of foam, with the slight bounce that comes with a coil mattress.Depending on the firmness of the foam used in the comfort layer, a hybrid can be made to feel soft, medium-soft, medium, medium-firm, or firm. We find that hybrids are best suited for petite sleepers who prefer back sleeping or stomach sleeping because this mattress type ensures even weight distribution.InnerspringInnerspring mattresses have been around for several years and are relatively affordable. However, they are quickly falling out of favor as American’s switch to more supportive, pressuring relieving foam mattresses. Innerspring beds have a spring coil base similar to a hybrid. Because innersprings have a thinner comfort layer, they offer very little pressure relief.For petite sleepers, we suggest avoiding innerspring mattresses. The thin comfort layer and hard spring coil base may not provide enough pressure relief for lightweight sleepers.Sleep Position and FirmnessMost mattress companies use a firmness scale from 1 to 10 to describe the feel of the mattress—1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest. When it comes to selecting the right comfort level, your preferred sleep position will be an important factor.Side SleeperWhen side sleeping, the hips and shoulders bear the brunt of the body weight, causing these areas to sink into the bed. Since those with a petite frame will naturally sink less, they need a softer mattress for side sleeping to ensure that pressure points don’t build-up near these joints.A firm mattress with very little give can press into these sensitive areas during the night and result in pain and soreness in the morning. If you are a petite sleeper who prefers side sleeping, we recommend a soft to medium mattress (1 through 5 on the firmness scale).Back SleeperBack sleeping often causes the hips to sink into the bed. If the mattress is too soft, excessive sinking can cause the spine to bow, putting pressure on the back muscles and leading to pain and stiffness. For most back sleepers, we generally suggest a firmer mattress to maintain alignment.However, small people, who will experience very little sinking, should opt for a medium mattress for back sleeping (5 on the firmness scale). This firmness will keep the joints protected from pressure points while also keeping body weight evenly distributed to avoid sinkage.Stomach SleeperStomach sleeping is not the healthiest sleep position because it can often lead to neck and back pain. When resting on the stomach, the natural curve of the spine becomes exaggerated, leading to tension in the back muscles.However, if you can’t avoid stomach sleeping, we suggest selecting a medium or medium-firm mattress (5 through 7 on the firmness scale). Petite sleepers may be more comfortable on a medium mattress (5 on the firmness scale) since it will be slightly softer and offer more contouring even with very little body weight.Combination SleeperIf you toss and turn during the night, you need a mattress that will keep you comfortable and supported no matter which position you end up in.Therefore, the best mattress for combination sleepers will be on the medium side (5 on the firmness scale). This comfort level is soft enough to keep the joints cushioned when side sleeping and firm enough to protect the lumbar spine when back sleeping.Easing Pressure PointsPressure points are a major concern for petite sleepers. When lightweight individuals rest on a mattress that does not offer enough compression, they may experience episodes of reduced circulation and joint pain.In a study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, researchers studied 83 people and found a connection between shoulder pain and the person’s sleeping position. More than half of people with shoulder pain reported sleeping on their side.Without having excess body weight to cushion the shoulder blade, thin people may experience more severe pain while side sleeping on firmer mattresses. Excess body fat can work as a cushion over tender joints, which can help to prevent your bones from pressing painfully into the mattress as you sleep. People who are very thin may not have this cushion, putting them at a higher risk of experiencing joint pain as a result of sleep. If you’re a side sleeper who commonly experiences shoulder pain, it is best to purchase a mattress with a soft to medium comfort level.Changing mattress types can help relieve joint discomfort. The above study also found that giving people a new mattress reduced back pain by 57.21 percent and shoulder pain by 60.83 percent. Those shifts were more common in more petite individuals.Best Mattress Thickness for Petite SleepersWhile it is clear a little bit of cushion is important for the health of thin sleepers, too much cushion could be hard for people who are both thin and a little on the shorter side.Mattresses with quite a bit of cushion tend to be very tall, as they have multiple layers of foam supported by springs. People who are on the short side may have a hard time clambering into a very tall bed and may feel as though they are falling when they try to get back out again.In addition, tall mattresses are made to offer durability even when they are compressed by a great deal of weight each day. A thin body offers much less compression force, which could mean all of those layers are unnecessary. Very thin people who invest in a mattress designed to be ultra durable may be spending money on extra support they don’t need, all while making it harder to get in and out of bed.Petite individuals who do not have a lot of body weight to bring to the mattress should stick to a mattress that is around 10 to 12 inches thick.How to Choose a New MattressOnline mattress companies offer a sleep-trial with their products. Sleep trials allow you to try out a mattress in your own home for a specified period of time while you decide if it is the right fit for you. A sleep trial is a great opportunity to find the best mattress for your unique needs.However, you will need to read the fine print. Some companies will require you to keep the mattress for a certain amount of days until you have the option to return. Other companies charge hidden restocking fees for mattress returns. While others make it nearly impossible to even return your bed. Before you buy, ask questions and have an understanding of the return process.You might also find brick-and-mortar mattress retailers near you. This allows you to visit the shop and try out the mattress in the store without making any kind of commitment to purchasing in the future.However, keep in mind that a short 10 to 15 test of a mattress is often not enough time to be sure that bed is right for you—a 2 to 3 month trial period is a much more effective way to try out a mattress. Even when shopping in-store, we suggest buying a bed with a sleep trial.Keep an eye out for the year’s big mattress sales, too! This will help you save even more on a new mattress.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the best type of mattress for a heavy person?If you’re shopping for a mattress for a heavier sleeper, it might be best to look for one with a firmer feel. Firm mattresses withstand compression better and soften under more pressure, so the bed won’t feel as firm to a heavy sleeper as it would to a person of average weight. Overweight people can sleep on a softer mattress if the bed has extra support measures, such as targeted back support or responsive transition layers.What is the best mattress for restless sleepers?A good mattress for combination sleepers, also known as restless sleepers, should keep them lifted so their movements are easier. A medium-feel hybrid is a good choice, as is a foam mattress. Restless sleepers who share a bed may also benefit from motion-isolating memory foam, which can keep them from disturbing their partner’s rest.What type of mattress is best for lower back pain?In most cases, the best mattress for lower back pain is medium to medium-firm. A mattress that is too soft may cause excessive sinking that forces the spine out of alignment with the hips and shoulder. Over time, misalignment can lead to chronic pain and stiffness in the lower back.Likewise, a mattress that is too firm may not offer adequate contouring near the joints, leading to pressure and tension build-up. A medium to medium-firm mattress will keep the heaviest parts of the body lifted and in alignment, so the spine can rest in a safe, neutral position. Both of these comfort levels will also be soft enough to prevent pressure points near the joints.What is the difference between queen and king bed?A queen size mattress measures 60 inches wide by 80 inches long, while a king size mattress measures 76 inches wide by 80 inches long. Although these mattresses have the same length, a king is 16 inches wider than a queen. For couples who toss and turn, a king size mattress may be a good choice since this size affords each person 38 inches of personal space.How should a couple choose a mattress?Couples with different firmness needs can sometimes struggle when it comes to choosing the right mattress. If you are a lightweight side sleeper, you will need a soft to medium mattress. However, your partner may be an average weight back sleeper who prefers a medium to medium-firm mattress.In many cases, shoppers choose medium mattresses for couples since this comfort level is versatile and works well for most sleep positions and body types.Couples can also opt for a split king mattress. This option allows each sleeper to select the ideal firmness for their side of the bed. This is a great way for both you and your partner to find a good night’s sleep.ConclusionSelecting the perfect mattress for your needs may seem a little overwhelming at times. However, if you keep your body weight and sleeper positions in mind as you shop, you are sure to bring home a mattress that keeps you comfortable and supported throughout the night.We hope this guide has been helpful in understanding what to look for, and what to avoid when choosing a mattress for a petite person. If you’re not certain one of the mattresses we discussed in this guide is good for you, read other online reviews to find the best mattress for yourself.About the author Amy MurphyAmy Murphy has spent the last 7 years experimenting with different apps, exercises, products, and routines to optimize her sleep. From sleep tracking gadgets to polyphasic sleep schedules, she’s tried some of the most unusual recommendations for better shut-eye. As Best Mattress Brand’s lead tester, she’s reviewed dozens of different mattresses and bedding accessories to find her top recommendations. Through her articles, Amy shares the wealth of knowledge she has gained during these experiences so readers can find the best sleep possible. Find more articles by Amy CommentsLeave a comment Mrs aspinall August 23, 2020 at 7:36 am ReplyGreat concise information. Leave a comment Cancel replyLeave a CommentYour email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Comment Name Email I agree to the Privacy Policy of this website. Δ