Written by Lauren Hapgood, Performance Editor
There are a number of reasons to invest in one of the best floor mattresses. Some value the aesthetic of a floor mattress, while others like to save money by not purchasing a frame or foundation. Traditional mattresses can be placed on the ground to serve as floor mattresses. There are also rollable and foldable mattresses; these are thinner and serve as stellar options for hosting guests, camping, or even napping. After much research and analysis, our team at Mattress Clarity created a roundup for our readers, so you can determine what is truly the best floor mattress for your needs.
Our Verdict: What’s the Best Floor Mattress?
Our expert reviewers chose the Helix Midnight as the best floor mattress due to its well-rounded and versatile features that can work for many types of sleepers. This is perfect for floor mattresses that function as guest beds, too.
Best Floor Mattress: Our Top 10 Picks
- Helix Midnight – Best Overall
- WinkBed – Best Floor Mattress for Adults
- Nolah Signature – Best Cooling Floor Mattress
- Nectar – Best Floor Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Tuft & Needle – Best Foam Floor Mattress
- Saatva – Best Luxury Floor Mattress
- Milliard Memory Foam Tri Fold – Best Foldable Floor Mattress
- D&D Futon Mattress – Best Futon Mattress
- Simmons Siesta Gel Foam Lounger – Best Roll-Up Floor Mattress
- Better Habitat SleepReady Portable Floor Bed – Best Portable Floor Mattress
Compare the Best Floor Mattresses
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| Helix Midnight Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Nolah Signature 12" Mattress | Nectar Mattress | Tuft & Needle Mattress | Saatva Mattress | Milliard Tri-Folding Memory Foam Mattress | D&D Futon Furniture Sleeper | Simmons Siesta Gel Foam Lounger | Better Habitat Sleep Ready Portable Floor Bed | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Firm: 8/10 | -- | -- |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Foam | Foam | Innerspring | Foam | Foam | Foam | Foam |
| Cooling | -- | ✓ | -- | -- | -- | ✓ | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| Sleep Position | Back & Side | Combination | Back & Side | Back & Side | Back & Stomach | Back & Stomach | Back & Side | Stomach | -- | -- |
How We Chose the Best Floor Mattress
Our team of sleep specialists have reviewed more than 150 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period, and warranty.
In order to choose the Best Floor Mattresses, we needed to define what a floor mattress is. We considered many different sleeping surfaces that can be used for sleeping temporarily, or even permanently, on the floor. Many bed-in-a-box brands designed their mattresses to work without a frame, so we included traditional mattresses in this roundup. We couldn’t forget to include tri-fold mats, futons, and roll-up surfaces as well; these are thinner, more temporary sleeping surfaces.
Regardless of the type of floor mattress, we paid close attention to quality materials. Sleeping on the floor can make a bed feel firmer, so it’s important to have a balance of supportive features, as well as plush pressure relief.
Affordability was a large focus when creating this roundup. We wanted traditional mattresses, roll-up mattresses, and foldable mattresses that come at a reasonable price point. For many, floor mattresses are a temporary option or secondary option, and aren’t used as a primary sleeping surface.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
The Helix Midnight is our favorite bed-in-a-box floor mattress because it’s incredibly well-rounded and versatile. The balance of comfort and support provided by its medium-firm construction makes it great for lightweight sleepers, most average-weight sleepers, and some heavier back sleepers. With such a wide range of accommodated sleepers, most sleepers should be more than satisfied with this bed.
What our testers say: “As a person who sleeps on their side and back, I loved sleeping on the Helix Midnight. The mattress conformed nicely to my body, and the Memory Plus Foam gave me the feeling that I was sinking into it rather than sleeping on top of it, which made it really comfortable.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Helix Midnight
- Great motion isolation
- Great edge support
- Great for combination sleepers
Cons of the Helix Midnight
- Doesn’t have classic foam feel
- Not great for stomach sleepers
Read our full Helix Midnight review for more information. Or check out our list of the Best Mattresses for more great options.
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
The WinkBed makes an excellent bed-in-a-box floor mattress for adults because it comes in four firmnesses: Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus (for heavier sleepers). With this in mind, adults should be able to find a model that provides the best comfort and support for their needs. Depending on your sleeping position and body type, you can select your ideal mattress.
What the testers say: “The balance of comfort and support I felt when back sleeping on the WinkBed was great! I got some nice lumbar support from the zoning in this mattress, and sleepers who are smaller than me will probably find some great pressure relief.” -Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the WinkBed
- Great for hot sleepers.
- A great orthopedic mattresses
- One of the most comfortable beds we’ve reviewed
Cons of the WinkBed
- Not budget friendly
- Not great for motion isolation
Read our full WinkBed review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses of 2023 for more great options.
Nolah Signature 12" Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Signature 12" Mattress
The Nolah Signature is a fantastic medium-firm mattress that offers plenty of foam comfort and pressure relief.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Signature 12" Mattress
The Nolah Signature is a fantastic medium-firm mattress that offers plenty of foam comfort and pressure relief.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
Sleeping on the floor is generally more cooling than using a base or foundation, since the air is cooler closer to the floor. If you still find yourself waking up sweaty, opt for one of the best cooling bed-in-a-box mattresses: the Nolah Signature. All-foam beds are known to trap heat, but that’s not the case with this model. The Nolah Signature is topped with a breathable cotton and Tencel cover. Beneath is Nolah’s signature AirFoam, specially designed for cooling.
What the testers say: “The Nolah Signature has a great balance of comfort and support, and I especially felt this while sleeping on my back. The Airfoam and cotton cover on this mattress also make it great for hot sleepers hoping to keep cool.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Nolah Signature
- Great for hip and back pain
- Great for couples
- Great for side sleepers
Cons of the Nolah Signature
- May be too soft for some
- Not great for stomach sleepers
Read our full Nolah Signature review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Cooling Mattresses for more great options.
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Side sleepers wanting a floor mattress must be careful that they choose one with adequate pressure relief. Sleeping on the floor already firms up a sleeping surface, so the Nectar is a fantastic solution. Its all-foam construction has cushy memory foam for proper contouring and pressure relief around the hip and shoulder. Still, there’s high-density foam at the bottom for support.
What the testers say: “The Nectar is a great fit for side sleepers. It’s important to note that I personally felt the slightest bit of pressure on my shoulders and hips in this position, but this shouldn’t be the case for lighter or larger sleepers, and overall, I loved sleeping on the Nectar and it should be a great fit for most side sleepers.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Nectar
- It’s a very soft mattress
- Great pressure relief
- 365-night trial and a lifetime warranty
Cons of the Nectar
- Not great for hot sleepers
- Not great for heavy sleepers
Read our full Nectar review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers for more great options.
Tuft & Needle Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Tuft & Needle Mattress
The Tuft & Needle is a great value mattress that is also extremely comfortable.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Tuft & Needle Mattress
The Tuft & Needle is a great value mattress that is also extremely comfortable.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
The Tuft & Needle is a bed-in-a-box that includes a thick and durable piece of base foam for its support layer. Also, the foam is ventilated, which might help prevent the absorption of moisture while the bed rests on the floor. Its comfort layer foams are also incredibly well-made. Unlike most foam, Tuft & Needle’s comfort layer foam is responsive and gel-infused for heat dissipation.
What the testers say: “I felt a balance of comfort and support when sleeping on the Tuft & Needle mattress, and the Adaptive Foam allowed me to sink right into it and get some pressure relief. I sleep on both my back and side, and both of these positions felt comfortable on the Tuft & Needle.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Tuft & Needle
- A queen is under $1,000.
- Great for combination sleepers
- GREENGUARD Gold and CertiPUR-US certified.
Cons of the Tuft & Needle
- Not great for stomach sleepers
- Not great for heavier sleepers
Read our full Tuft & Needle review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Memory Foam Mattresses for more great options.
Saatva Mattress
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
The Saatva Classic is a high-quality innerspring mattress with a soft pillow-top and two layers of coils. It comes in three firmness levels: Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm, but for this roundup, we’re recommending the Luxury Firm since it has the most balanced feel and offers a great amount of comfort and support.
What the testers say: “The Saatva gives a bit of bounce from the coil layers and has a soft, plushy, pillow-top feel. I get the feeling that I’m sleeping on it instead of in it, and it also gives a luxurious feel, especially for a mattress that’ll be kept on the floor.”– Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Saatva
- Great for combination sleepers
- One of the best mattresses for back sleepers
- Contains high-quality materials
Cons of Saatva
- Not great for soft mattress lovers
- Not good for lightweight side sleepers
- Lacks a classic foam feel
Read our full Saatva mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of the Best Luxury Mattresses for more great options.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
N/A
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
N/A
Price Range
$$$$$
Material
Foam
Warranty
N/A
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
N/A
Price Range
$$$$$
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
N/A
Warranty
N/A
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
The Milliard Memory Tri-Fold is a unique foldable floor mattress in that it comes in a queen size. This bed measures 78” x 58” x 6”, so there’s plenty of room to spread out. It has thicker layers for added comfort. One and a half inches of memory foam and four and a half inches of supportive foam make it better suited to adults than thinner, narrower foldable surfaces. The foldable element makes it portable and easy for temporary sleeping situations.
What our testers say: “The Milliard is compact and foldable, so it’s easy to lay on at night and store away in the day. It’s thick enough to feel comfortable while on the floor, and the soft memory foam should make it easy to sleep on.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Milliard Memory Foam Tri-Fold
- Washable cover and a non-slip bottom
- The memory foam is ventilated for cooling
- The foam is CertiPUR-US certified
Cons of the Milliard Memory Foam Tri-Fold
- Not great for heavier sleepers
- Not budget friendly
Our full Milliard Memory Foam Tri-Fold review is coming soon!
Material
Foam
Trial Period
N/A
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Warranty
N/A
Price Range
$$$$$
Material
Foam
Warranty
N/A
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
N/A
Price Range
$$$$$
Material
Foam
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Trial Period
N/A
Warranty
N/A
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
Futon mattresses can be great temporary beds for guests, or in many cases, permanent sleeping spaces. The D&D Futon Mattress is designed to have the look and feel of a traditional Japanese futon mattress. When rolled out, it measures roughly the size of a queen mattress. However, it’s much more portable, since all you need to do is roll it up and store it. The cushy foam in this futon adds to sleepers’ comfort while resting on the floor.
What our testers say: “If you’re in a smaller space, the D&D Futon mattress should be a great fit for a floor mattress. It’s large enough to stretch out comfortably on, and the cotton filling should give some plush comfort. It’s a great choice for temporary sleeping situations.”– Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the D&D Futon Mattress
- Made in the USA
- It has 4.5/5 stars on Amazon
- Resilient foam
Cons of the D&D Futon Mattress
- Only comes in a firm feel
- Cover not removable
Our full D&D Futon Mattress review is coming soon!
Simmons Siesta Gel Foam Lounger
Material
Foam
Trial Period
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Simmons Siesta Gel Foam Lounger
The Simmons Siesta is a rollaway mattress that includes cooling gel-infused foam for an extra comfy sleep experience.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Firmness
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
Price Range
$$$$$
Simmons Siesta Gel Foam Lounger
The Simmons Siesta is a rollaway mattress that includes cooling gel-infused foam for an extra comfy sleep experience.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Trial Period
Warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re looking for one of the best roll-up mattresses on the market, search no further than the Simmons Siesta Gel Foam Lounger. It comes in a twin size and makes a fantastic temporary sleeping surface at a good value. Because this surface is so lightweight, it’s great for travel. It’s easy to store and set-up, so it works well as a play mat or even a comfy place to read. Simply roll it out and enjoy!
What our testers say: “The Simmons Siesta Lounger is a great pick for short-term comfort, and even has some unique features like the gel foam that helps with cooling. If you’re having guests come over for a short time or need a quick sleeping solution, this should work, but I wouldn’t recommend it for any long-term sleeping arrangements.”-Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Simmons Siesta Lounger
- Washable cover
- Gel-infused foam
- Free shipping and returns
Cons of the Simmons Siesta Lounger
- Only comes in twin size
- Only 3 inches tall
Our full Simmons Siesta Gel Foam Lounger review is coming soon!
Better Habitat Sleep Ready Portable Floor Bed
Material
Foam
Trial Period
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Warranty
1-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Better Habitat Sleep Ready Portable Floor Bed
The Better Habitat SleepReady Portable Floor Mattress is one of our favorite options for guests, camping, and kids. It's also waterproof and CertiPUR-US certified.
Material
Foam
Warranty
1-year warranty
Firmness
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
Price Range
$$$$$
Better Habitat Sleep Ready Portable Floor Bed
The Better Habitat SleepReady Portable Floor Mattress is one of our favorite options for guests, camping, and kids. It's also waterproof and CertiPUR-US certified.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Trial Period
Warranty
1-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
There are two steps to setting up the Better Habitat SleepReady Portable Bed: unclip and roll out. You won’t need a pump like you would with an air mattress. To make things even easier, it comes with a travel case and carry handle. It can be easily lifted and stowed into a car. There are a number of uses for this bed; you can take it for an overnight trip, use it as a cozy guest surface, or even bring it to a college dorm room.
What our testers say: “Road trippers, campers, or kids having a slumber party should love this floor bed. It’s easy to use, waterproof, and made with higher-quality materials than the run-of-the-mill sleeping bag or air mattress you might find in those scenarios.” -Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the SleepReady Portable Bed
- Water-resistant cover
- Memory foam comfort layer
- Cover is machine-washable
Cons of the SleepReady Portable Bed
- Only comes in twin sizes
- Not great for heavier sleepers
Our full Better Habitat SleepReady Portable Floor Bed review is coming soon!
Types of Floor Mattresses
Regular Mattresses
Traditional bed-in-a-box mattresses generally have a height of around 12” and are made from a variety of materials. These floor beds will keep you a bit higher off the ground and are better-suited for long-term use. That being said, these mattresses are generally meant to have a secure base, frame, or foundation of some sort. We recommend checking with the manufacturer to understand the mattress’s warranty, and to ensure that it can safely be placed on the ground.
RELATED: Best Mattresses
Foldable Mattresses
Foldable mattresses may fold once (bi-fold) or two times (tri-fold) at the creases. They typically include a layer or multiple layers of foam for cushioning while you rest on the floor. These sleeping surfaces are generally around 4” in height, and they can serve as a play mat for children or even a workout mat.
Rollable Mattresses
Like foldable mattresses, rollable mattresses are versatile, convenient, and space-saving. They can be rolled up and are lightweight, making them popular for travel. Rollable mattresses come in many forms, such as Japanese tatami beds, and are typically made of foam such as memory foam.
Yes or No: Mattresses on the Floor
Whether or not you should use a mattress on the floor is entirely circumstantial.
There are a number of different types of floor mattresses available, and while some of them aren’t suitable for long-term use, others get the job done quite well. The best way to tell whether a mattress is good for long-term use is to check with the manufacturer.
Regular bed-in-a-box mattresses: You should find that most mattresses can be placed on the floor, and that they work well enough for long-term use. This includes innersprings, hybrids, latex, and even memory foam mattresses.
Many foldable/roll-up/portable mattresses: While these sleeping surfaces might be more convenient in many cases, they may not be best for long-term use. Foldable or roll-up mattresses can be made with high-quality materials and can be used for something as long-term as a dorm room. However, pay special attention to how these surfaces are marketed and whether or not the manufacturer recommends them for long-term usage. Sometimes, they’re simply made to host a guest for a few nights or provide some pressure relief on a camping trip.
Benefits of Floor Mattresses
More Convenient
This applies more to portable/futon mattresses rather than traditional bed-in-a-box mattresses. Floor mattresses similar to foldable and rollable beds are easy to set up and put away, which makes them great in a pinch.
This can be fantastic for guests of all kinds (family reunions, your child’s sleepovers, a visiting friend, a vacation rental). These mattresses can be portable as well, adding comfort to your next camping trip.
Because they’re often not luxury, permanent options, and since you’re not paying the added cost of a foundation, these beds save quite a bit of money. You won’t have to empty your wallet to set up your guest bedroom.
The ability to pack up a portable floor mattress in a matter of minutes or even seconds allows you to save a significant amount of space. Many come with travel bags or cases for added convenience.
Temperature
If you tend to wake up hot and sweaty and cooling sheets and pillows just aren’t doing the trick, then putting your bed on the floor might change things. The air is cooler closer to the floor, which can prevent you from overheating.
Save Money
On average, quality foundations cost roughly $300, but luxury options can go beyond $500. Keeping your mattress on the floor means you don’t have to shell out an extra few hundred bucks.
RELATED: Box Springs vs Platforms vs Foundations
Disadvantages of Floor Mattresses
Bad for Allergies
Sleeping closer to the ground means that you’re also sleeping closer to dust, pollen, and other contaminants that gather on the floor. If you suffer from bad allergies, then you might want to consider steering away from floor mattresses. The proximity to allergens can worsen your symptoms.
Additionally, if you don’t properly care for your floor mattress, mold and mildew can ruin the material. Moisture builds up much easier in a floor mattress; frames and foundations allow for more circulation. That’s why it’s so important to air out and clean your floor mattress (more on that below).
Not As Clean
Being closer to the dirt and dust that gathers on the floor can be a disadvantage for those who like to keep a cleaner sleeping space. You might have to wash your comforter and sheets more often. You may need to clean your floor more regularly as well.
Doesn’t Suit Seniors
Sleeping on the floor means it’s much harder to get out of bed. This can be a deterrent for seniors, who require ease of movement on a mattress.
RELATED: Best Mattress for Seniors
Warranties
It’s important to consult the manufacturer’s mattress warranty on the product. Often, if you don’t provide your mattress with the proper support, it voids the warranty. In many cases, companies void warranties when mattresses are placed on the floor instead of a proper base or foundation.
Floor Mattress Considerations
Type of Flooring
Here are the criteria for a the best floor mattress location:
- Somewhere dry
- A finished surface
- Somewhere clean
Many natural surfaces tend to absorb moisture, so be conscious of the material on which you’re setting your floor mattress. Synthetic surfaces are often your best bet. Additionally, you’re going to want not only a finished surface, but a clean one. This is best for your overall comfort and health, as well as the floor mattress’s lifespan.
Dimensions
One of the trickiest parts about floor mattresses (particularly foldable and rollable ones) is that they’re meant to save space. They’re not designed to support couples or heavier sleepers; more often than not, their comfort layers are only thick enough to support a single light or average-weight sleeper at a time. Be careful before purchasing a mattress and ensure it suits your weight capacity and body type. The manufacturer should be able to provide you with information about your chosen product.
RELATED: Mattress Sizes and Dimensions Guide
Materials
Regular Mattresses:
- Memory foam: Side sleepers and those with joint pain tend to love memory foam mattresses because of the thick comfort layer. This material is known for providing unmatched pressure relief and contouring. While many foams tend to trap heat and sag easily, most companies use modern technology to create cooling foams and high-density foams for durability.
- Innerspring: While memory foam lovers are in search for lots of cushioning, innerspring fans seek a traditional and supportive feel. Because it includes a thin comfort layer and focuses mainly on sturdy coils, this mattress best suits heavier sleepers, stomach sleepers, and those experiencing back pain.
- Hybrid: These beds combine features of memory foam and innerspring mattresses. They include a thicker comfort layer along with sturdy coils. This results in a wide range of feels amongst hybrid mattresses.
Foldable and Rollable Mattresses:
These beds are made from foam — typically memory foam or polyfoam. Some utilize a combination of both foams, since they each have different properties and purposes. Memory foam is famous for its slow-moving feel and ability to provide pressure relief. Polyfoam is often found in mattress support cores and provides a denser feel.
Cooling
If you tend to sleep hot, you might find that sleeping on the floor is your solution. It keeps you cooler at night than sleeping at a higher elevation (such as on a base or foundation). That said, humid environments can be bad for floor mattresses because a mattress on the floor is more likely to absorb moisture. Any retained moisture can cause odor, mold, or mildew.
It’s also important to note that certain mattress materials promote cooling more than others. Innerspring and hybrid mattresses have coils that allow room for airflow. Some cooling mattresses and other sleeping surfaces include cooling gel-infused foams or ventilated foams for breathability. By researching a mattress’s construction, you should be able to tell whether or not it’s going to suit your needs as a hot sleeper.
Durability
Another thing to consider is how long you’ll want your mattress to last. In many cases, foldable or rollable mattresses aren’t permanent sleeping situations. Because they’re not being used nightly, they should last a few years. Still, they’re rather thin and less durable than a traditional mattress. If you’re sleeping on a traditional mattress such as a hybrid, you can expect roughly 7 years of constant use. Some can last over 10 years.
Keep in mind that using a mattress on the floor may shorten its lifespan. Without a foundation or base, mattresses are closer to the contaminants that collect and live on the floor. These bases also help support sleepers as well as the mattress itself.
The best way to find a durable mattress is to look for the inclusion of quality materials. High-density foams prevent sagging, and sturdy coils can also extend a mattress’s lifespan.
Purchasing Your Floor Mattress
Average Cost
Most rollable or foldable options should cost somewhere in the neighborhood of $50–$300. The average traditional mattress goes for around $800–$1700. Of course, both cheaper and luxury options exist.
When You Should Buy
Companies tend to have their biggest sales around large holidays. Here are five of the best times to shop for sleeping surfaces throughout the year:
- February – Presidents’ Day
- May – Memorial Day
- September – Labor Day
- November – Cyber 5
- December – Christmas
Coupons
You can find a number of exclusive deals for many of the mattress brands featured in this article through our Mattress Clarity Coupons page.
Warranty and Sleep Trial
Warranties and sleep trials are important policies that represent a company’s confidence in their product. While warranties protect the customer from paying for a damaged or defective product, sleep trials give the customer an allotment of time to test out a mattress.
Caring for Your Floor Mattresses
Above all else, you should check with the manufacturer before cleaning your mattress. Below are guidelines that should work for many materials, and can be used when in doubt.
How to Clean a Mattress
- Remove all bedding from the mattress.
- Vacuum the mattress surface to remove loose particles, such as dirt and dust.
- Spot-clean your mattress.
- Use baking soda to clean the entire mattress, removing moisture and any odors. Sprinkle across the surface, leave for a few hours, and vacuum it all up.
- Let your mattress air out. This can be done inside or outside on a clean surface. Airing out your mattress eliminates moisture, bacteria, and mold from the material.
Letting Your Floor Mattress Breathe
Giving your mattress the chance to air out is not only important in the mattress-cleaning process, but especially for floor beds. Placing your mattress on the floor makes it more susceptible to trapping moisture and contaminants like bacteria. While warmer or humid climates may need to do this more often, we suggest stripping the bedding and letting the mattress air out against a wall. This should be done for a few hours every couple of weeks.
How to Make Your Floor Mattress More Comfortable
- Pillows: These accessories are crucial for maintaining proper neck and head alignment. They can also assist with cooling. For excellent options, check out our roundup for the best pillows on the market.
- Sheets: If you get home after a long day of work, the last thing you want to do is crawl into bed with scratchy old sheets. Up your game using our roundup of the best sheets out there.
Summary
Here’s a recap of our top picks for the best floor mattresses:
| Mattress | Best for |
| Helix Midnight | Editor’s Pick |
| WinkBed | Best Floor Mattress for Adults |
| Nolah Signature | Best Cooling Floor Mattress |
| Nectar | Best Floor Mattress for Side Sleepers |
| Tuft & Needle | Best Foam Floor Mattress |
| Saatva | Best Luxury Floor Mattress |
| Milliard Memory Foam Tri-Fold | Best Foldable Floor Mattress |
| D&D Futon Mattress | Best Futon Floor Mattress |
| Simmons Siesta Gel Foam Lounger | Best Roll-Up Floor Mattress |
| Better Habitat SleepReady Portable Floor Bed | Best Portable Floor Mattress |
Best Floor Mattress FAQs
What mattress is best for the floor?
First, it’s worth mentioning that the best mattress is the best mattress for your individual needs and preferences. However, if we had to choose, we’d say the Helix. It’s an incredibly well-rounded, high-quality option for a more reasonable price.
Is a mattress on the floor a good idea?
It depends. Sleeping on a floor mattress is often cheaper, cooler in temperature, and incredibly convenient. They work especially well for guests and other sleeping situations. While they may not be the best long-term options, some traditional mattresses can be placed on the floor safely. However, this may void the manufacturer’s warranty.
How thick should a floor mattress be?
Many rollable and foldable mattresses are about 4” thick, but remember to take your body type into consideration. Four inches of material may not provide enough support for you. Traditional mattresses are much thicker, measuring around 10” in height. These would be much better options for heavier sleepers, stomach sleepers, and those wanting more support.
What can I put under my mattress on the floor to prevent mold?
To avoid moisture buildup and consequently mold and mildew, you can put something between your mattress and the floor. Common materials include plywood, foam, and cardboard.