How Thick Should Your Mattress Be?
By Stefan Gheorghe
| Updated on 
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Stefan Gheorghe is the founder and editor-in-chief of Homedit.com. He launched the platform in 2008 out of a passion for interior design, architecture, and how people actually live in their homes.
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Mattress thickness plays a key role in comfort, support, and sleep quality. Choosing the right height depends on your body weight, sleep position, health needs, and bedroom setup.
| Thickness | Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Low Profile | 2–5 inches | Infants, foldaway beds, trundles |
| Slim Profile | 5–8 inches | Kids, bunk beds, limited mobility, small spaces |
| Standard | 8–12 inches | Most adults, all sleep positions, best all-around choice |
| Thick | 12–16 inches | Plus-size sleepers, side sleepers, couples |
| Extra Thick | 16+ inches | Heavier adults, deep pressure relief, large bedrooms |
Key Mattress Layers
- Support Layer (Base): Foundation for alignment and durability. Should make up ~50% of total height.
- Comfort Layer: Provides pressure relief. Should be at least 2–3 inches.
- Transition Layer (Optional): Found in hybrids and premium mattresses for targeted support and motion control.
How to Choose the Right Thickness
1. By Body Weight
| Sleeper Type | Recommended Thickness |
|---|---|
| Under 130 lbs | 8–10 inches |
| 130–230 lbs | 10–12 inches |
| Over 230 lbs | 12–14+ inches |
2. By Sleep Position
| Sleep Style | Ideal Thickness |
|---|---|
| Side Sleepers | 12–14 inches |
| Back Sleepers | 10–12 inches |
| Stomach Sleepers | 8–10 inches |
| Combo Sleepers | 10–12 inches |
3. By Health Needs
- Joint/back pain: Thicker beds with cushioning layers
- Limited mobility: Go for a thinner mattress (easier to get in/out of bed)
4. By Bedroom Setup
- Small room: Avoid tall mattresses that overwhelm space
- Low bed frames: Match with thinner mattress
- High bed frames: Can handle thick mattresses without being too tall
5. If Sharing a Bed
Choose 12 inches or more for long-term durability and shared weight support
Choose a thicker mattress if:
- You’re a side sleeper or over 230 lbs
- You sleep with a partner or pets
- You want deeper support and durability
Choose a thinner mattress if:
- You have mobility concerns or a small space
- You’re under 130 lbs
- You’re on a tighter budget