Can A Mattress Help Sleep Apnea? Check Out The Best Ones
Sleep apnea can be a terribly distressing condition, affecting the quality of life. Obstructive sleep apnea can be caused by a number of things in adults and can include being overweight or obese. Even the mattress that you sleep on may play a role and that may surprise you. Symptoms of sleep apnea can include choking or gasping noises while you try to sleep, and loud snoring, and can make you feel extremely tired during the day. But the best mattresses for sleep apnea aren't always what you would expect but those who suffer from sleep apnea may be interested to read through our review lineup and find out more about firmness, thickness, material quality, and how certain mattresses can help sleep apnea patients.
Some people will take medication to control their condition. Some control positive airway pressure by using a therapy device that uses compressed air to control airways during sleep. But some decide to avoid sleep apnea treatment and choose to change their lifestyle choices instead. Many people find that choosing the right mattress can help to effectively reduce the stopping and starting of breathing during sleep as well as eliminating aches and pains to finally get a good night s sleep.
Mattresses for apnea sleep won't cure the condition but the need to align the spine as you sleep can alleviate pressure points too and help you lay so that your head is well-positioned. While the back and head are supported, the throat muscles become supported and the airways are likely to be able to open up better, helping to ease symptoms of sleep apnea.
The position which you sleep in is also an important factor in helping too. Perhaps if your partner suffers from sleep apnea then you might choose a split size mattress or a hybrid mattress with zoned support and the option to have the two halves of the mattress a different firmness.
Whether it's a soft, firm, or medium-firm mattress, one for back pain and sleep apnea symptoms, a different sleep disorder or you simply want a quality mattress with zoned support then have a look through our comprehensive review guide and find out more.
There's nothing like a good night's sleep...
The Best Mattress For Sleep Apnea
1. Saatva Zenhaven Latex Mattress
HIGHLIGHTS:
May help if you suffer sleep apnea symptoms or other conditions causing lack of sleep
Customers have the option to choose from two firmness levels
The top cover is 100% organic hypoallergenic and antimicrobial to add freshness
Sustainable latex foam, cotton, and wool
Stable base for this multiple layer mattress
White glove delivery and setup in the room of your choice
180-night sleep trial and 20-year warranty
Add a foundation or an adjustable base
1.
Saatva Zenhaven Latex Mattress – Best Choice
As far as a new mattress goes, when you’re researching you may like to discover the Saatva Zenhaven Latex Mattress. Using a mixture of latex foam, cotton, wool, and superior quality material to make up the entire mattress. It is perfect for targeting pressure point relief and ideal for those suffering from snoring and sleep apnea as well as working wonderfully for those waking with aches and pains and distress from being over-tired. If you were looking for memory foam or latex, this doesn’t contain memory foam. It’s natural Talalay latex is naturally hypoallergenic and gives maximum support to the body.
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The Saatva Zenhaven may be a good mattress for sleep apnea, those with aches and pains after a night of sleep, people with high blood pressure, and those needing pressure relief to shoulders and hips – and other areas of the body. This is due to the multiple layers that provide support to the lumbar region and pressure points, as well as being hypoallergenic and having a cooling effect. So sleep during the night on this luxuriously crafted mattress doesn’t cause distress to the body unlike older or sagging mattresses, and waking up from a serene and soothing sleep leaves the sleeper feeling more refreshed.
Each new mattress in the range is made up of multiple latex layers. It is cleverly designed to provide good alignment of the spine, helping sufferers of all kinds of conditions that cause a lack of sleep. Customers can choose from Luxury-Plush which works with the body and relieves pressure points in all sleeping positions. Customers can also select Gentle-Firm which is very well suited to stomach sleepers or back sleepers as it lifts and supports where it matters.
The Zenhaven comes with a 180-night risk-free trial, a 20-year warranty for your peace of mind, and an elegant white glove delivery.
The Layers
The quilted cover is made with beautiful material. The 100% organic cotton used ensures that the cover is breathable, assisting the rest of the layers to regulate temperature to avoid disturbance especially for hot sleepers or those who like to remain cool.
The second layer is on the underside of the cover and is made up of sustainably resourced New Zealand wool. It’s free of toxins and harmful chemicals and is one of the best comforters for those wanting to eliminate allergens.
The next is a Talalalay layer with five support zones which helps with optimum pressure relief. Finally, the base is constructed with natural Talalay latex for maximum support and stability, with breathable pores that help the entire mattress to draw in cool air and expel warm air.
The Zenhaven is an ultra eco-friendly mattress made with renewable yet luxury materials. It will be shipped for free, comes with a 180-night sleep trial and a superior 20-year warranty for peace of mind.
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Learn more about Saatva Zenhaven Latex Mattress
2. Saatva Loom & Leaf Mattress
HIGHLIGHTS:
Memory foam mattress for sufferers of back pain
May ease symptoms of sleep apnea during rest
You have the option to choose the firmness level you require
The top cover is 100% organic hypoallergenic, antimicrobial cover for freshness
Made with 5-lbs high-density memory foam
Stable base made from multiple layers
White glove delivery and setup
180-night sleep trial for your peace of mind
Foundation or adjustable bed base option
2.
Saatva Loom & Leaf Mattress – Premium Pick
This is the Saatva Loom & Leaf Mattress which is a memory foam mattress and is ideal for those suffering symptoms of sleep apnea including being perfect for those suffering from lower back pain. If you are currently looking for a new mattress this Saatva model is available in ‘relaxed firm’ and is a mattress that combines comfort with support and provides pressure relief.
Whether you find yourself sleeping on your back or in a different sleeping position, this mattress will suit all combinations of sleeping positions and is one of the best mattresses for couples who have alternative needs when it comes to different sleeping styles. The firm version of the Saatva Loom & Leaf helps the lower and upper body and helps with the feeling of laying and almost floating on the surface of the mattress rather than sinking into it, so it is deemed a little better for back and stomach sleepers who need additional support and want a restful sleep.
Each new mattress in the range is made up of four layers. This is designed to offer sufferers of a sleep disorder like sleep apnea, through zone control and spinal alignment, the support needed during rest.
The Layers
The top layer is soft, breathable and this 100% organic cotton cover is hypoallergenic and can potentially help asthma and allergy sufferers. It is treated with Guardin® botanical treatment which in turn makes it antimicrobial which is great for keeping the mattress feeling fresh while preventing stale odors by absorbing and dissipating (or wicking away) moisture.
The second layer is the gel-infused layer. This is the one that helps with spinal alignment. The gel is designed to offer a cooling property during sleep by regulating temperature that can become uncomfortably hot with standard memory foam mattresses.
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Underneath this gel-infused memory foam layer is a premium 5 lbs of memory foam, giving the sleeper good relief at pressure points and the proper support to help with deep and sound sleep.
Finally, the base is made up of a high-density memory foam making the mattress ultimately durable giving the sleeper great stability during rest.
The Loom & Leaf is an eco-friendly mattress made with renewable oils. It will be shipped for free and it comes with a 180-night sleep trial and an impressive 15-year warranty for peace of mind.
Learn more about Saatva Loom & Leaf Mattress
3. Casper Original Mattress
HIGHLIGHTS:
Original or Hybrid mattress options combining memory foam or foam and innerspring layer
Airscape™ perforated breathable foam for cooling during the night
Three support zones for back pain sufferers and sleeping conditions
Resilient springs in the Hybrid model for durability and support
Sturdy edge support for ease of getting in and out of bed
Adjustable base or foundation options available
The Original Mattress from Casper is perfect for those who have different sleeping positions and who like to sleep cool with zoned support to soothe aches and pains. If you like to sleep on plush layers but also enjoy a medium-firm mattress the two options with the Casper Original give soft support under the shoulders and firmer support under the back and hips in the center of the second layer. The Hybrid mattress has a luxurious feel, is a little firmer, and has pocketed springs. Both options offer targeted support for pressure relief and spinal alignment during a night of sleep and the mattresses are designed to keep you cool for a sound and restful sleep at a pleasant temperature.
While there is no specific best mattress for sleep apnea, help with back pain and spinal alignment can relieve symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea and snoring as you sleep comfortably. To assist with a soothing sleep and for relief with back pain and aches, the Casper Original has three layers, securing your comfort.
The Layers
The top layer is made with a special quality Airscape™ material which has tiny perforations that increase the airflow. This keeps you cooler than simple memory foam but this layer does also have a lovely comforting feel to it.
The second layer is also AirScape™ breathable foam and has the three ergonomic zoned support we have already mentioned. This is great for side sleepers but is beneficial to stomach sleepers and back sleepers and those finding themselves tossing and turning overnight. The Zoned Support™ layer also relieves pressure where your shoulders rest and helps align the hips. In all, there are three support zones and this is very important for those looking to support the spine.
The final base layer, should you choose the Hybrid Casper Original contains resilient springs in individually wrapped pocketed coils giving a superior lift to the body and support and facilitates airflow throughout. The edge support is of firm construction which makes it easy to get in and out of bed and to sit on the edge while preventing sag.
The mattresses whichever option you choose come with a 100-night trial, free delivery and returns, and a 10-year limited warranty.
Learn more about Casper Original Mattress
4. Layla Memory Foam Matteress
HIGHLIGHTS:
The Layla mattress is made from memory foam for people needing support for back pain
Flippable with either a soft or a firm side to suit you
Soft and firm copper gel-infused memory foam layers
Cooling technology foam and antimicrobial odor control
2 inches of thick zoned support foam
120 night free trial and hassle-free returns if needed
4.
Layla Memory Foam Matteress – Best Value
They call it a dream in a box. This Layla Memory Foam Mattress is made using quality memory foam which features copper-infused foam aimed at keeping you cooler during a night s sleep. It has impressive awards from Tuck and Sleepopolis in 2020 for Best Memory Foam Mattress and Best Cooling Mattress as well as plenty of others from Forbes, Good Housekeeping, and People.
The Layla mattress is flippable which is superb for helping with back pain and also you can choose the best side that is good for your sleeping position and opening up the throat muscles to help with breathing during sleep. It comes with two free Layla Memory foam pillows that are beneficial for back pain and different types of sleep positions by offering the right level of support. They will cradle your head in a perfect position as you sleep. Current customers will also receive a free microfiber bedsheet set and a mattress protector providing everything needed to get you comfortable, rested and restored.
The Layers
There are six layers starting with either a firm or soft thermo-gel cooling technology foam these are at the top or bottom or vice versa. It has a pleasant hexagon pattern and includes a zipper which is great when you need to remove it for washing. It is up to you to flip the mattress – simply choose whether the firmer (black/gray) or softer (white/gray) side suits you.
Other layers within the mattress also include soft and firm copper gel-infused memory foam layers. These layers are cleverly designed to offer a clean and cool sleep with antimicrobial odor control.
The center of the mattress incorporates a 2-inch thick support foam. To add support this layer is that has zoned support for pressure relief, and the thick 4-inch foam core helps prevent motion transfer and disturbance from a sleeping partner – ideal support to hips and shoulders, relief from aches and pains, and no interruptions so you and your partner can get a decent night’s rest.
For peace of mind, you get a lifetime warranty, a 120-night free trial, and free shipping.
Learn more about Layla Memory Foam Mattress
5. The Wink Bed by WinkBeds
HIGHLIGHTS:
Hybrid design combing foam and innerspring technology
Triple Layer Heat Disperse™ wicks away moisture and heat during rest
Unique LumbarLayer™ to prevent lower back sag
High-tech comfort may help with sleep apnea symptoms
Four firmness levels to choose from
Handmade in the USA and made to order
Voted SleepFoundation’s #1 Best Mattress for Back Pain for 2020
Lifetime durability promise/warranty
120 night risk-free trial
With impressive awards from SleepFoundation.org, NBC News, Architectural Digest, and the New York Times, this is a wonderfully designed mattress that brings impressive results to those wanting a sound, deep, and comfortable sleep.
The Wink Bed by WinkBeds brings together luxury and comfort using premium memory foam and offering the support of innersprings. It has a unique design that cleverly combines pressure relief and the support that every body needs. The Euro-top pillow gives an option of four firmness levels but remains ultra velvety and soothing on the body for a superb night’s sleep.
The Layers
The cover of the WinkBeds Hybrid is crafted from Tencel© which is an entirely natural eucalyptus-based fabric that provides excellent performance when it comes to mattress covers. Tencel© has the ability to wick away moisture and heat from the body, in turn, this allows you to sleep much cooler than with, say, linens or polyesters – in fact around 30% cooler, and it is velvety soft to sleep on.
The Euro pillow top is composed of two quilted layers. Infused with gel the Hypersoft Foam gives the feel of the most comfortable sleep surface around the body. This layer supports the spine, providing cushioning and support for the hips and shoulders too. Release tension and relieve pressure whilst you sleep easy, providing your lower and upper body with the comfort it needs and dissipating sleep apnea obstructive breathing during the night. Not like standard memory foam, Hypersoft Foam draws heat away from the body and combines with the mattress cover and the innerspring underside to keep you feeling cool and waking up revitalized. It also stabilizes movement so you won’t feel so much as your partner moves and is tossing and turning throughout the night.
The base layer contains further support which is provided by individually wrapped coils. The coils add flex as the innerspring design pushes against areas of pressure but still support areas of low pressure.
The premium design includes sturdy edge support using an Extra-Edge™ system which provides support to the body right to the very edge of the mattress. The innovative anti-sag technology is something many people overlook.
All of this – a unique cover, Euro pillow top comfort layer, and adjustable bed frame options, foundations, and heavy-duty base frames – make this great for people with high blood pressure, people with back pain, people with sleep apnea, and many other conditions that cause stress through lack of sleep.
Unlike with many other mattresses, you can sleep right up to the edge of the bed with a WinkBed mattress, and you won’t feel like you’re about to fall off, or that the mattress is sagging. This is thanks to the innovative Extra-Edge™ anti-sag system that provides support all the way to the very edge. And if you have a partner who tends to move a lot in their sleep and keeps you awake, you’ll be pleased to know that WinkBed pillow top mattresses have a layer of stabilizing gel immediately above their springs. This is designed to cut down on motion transfer throughout the night, allowing you to sleep in peace.
The WinkBeds Hybrid Mattress comes with a 120-night risk-free trial, a lifetime warranty, and durability promise for peace of mind, along with free delivery and no-hassle returns.
Learn more about The Wink Bed by WinkBeds
Features To Consider With Mattresses For Sleep Apnea
Natural & Organic Materials
During the manufacturing process, a typical mattress made in a traditional manner will be subject to chemical treatments which include fire retardancy treatments that may be carcinogenic, something nobody wants to worry about when trying to get a good night s sleep.
Natural and organic materials are important for any mattress and are especially effective for those who may usually have an allergic reaction to other types of materials. Organic fabrics don't contain pesticides or chemicals that can cause reactions and therefore those who have respiratory issues such as bronchitis or people who suffer from sleep apnea, and others may also benefit from natural and organic mattresses.
Not only are certain organic materials hypoallergenic, but they are also sustainable and help beautifully with temperature regulation because of their natural insulation capabilities.
Construction & Build Material
Simply put, some of the best mattresses are constructed using layers made from different materials designed at offering a variety of benefits. By using layers rather than the traditional innerspring 'coil only' the build of a mattress today combines engineering with genuine comfort.
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Firmness
Choose from soft, ideal for side sleepers. Still aligning the spine it contours the body's shape. Medium-firm is the most popular choice. Still protecting the shoulders and hips but not feeling like you are sleeping on 'top' of the mattress, more being cradled by it.
Firm and ultra firm are great for a variety of combination sleepers and those of a larger size. Firm never feels too hard for most people and an ultra-hard mattress is usually the choice of those who don't want to feel like they're sinking into the layers. For more information, read our reviews of the best firm mattress and the best soft mattress.
Support
First consider the edges. If the perimeter of a mattress isn't built sturdily enough it will sag and make it an effort to get in or out of. Extra edge support can also mean that you are less likely to roll or fall off if you tend to sleep close to the edge.
It's easy to mix up firmness and support. The firmness is how much you float on the surface or sink into the mattress. Support is an important factor and is designed to keep the spine aligned during the night.
Adequate support should mean that when you lay on a mattress it should distribute your weight evenly. When it comes to sleep apnea patients, good spinal alignment can mean that the throat muscles open up a little more, allowing the airways to flow a little better.
For you, the right mattress might be one with springs and a layer of memory foam or it could be without springs but with memory foam or latex layers but remember that although soft feel comfortable whether you're sleeping on your side, stomach sleeping, or back sleeping, it might not be giving your body enough support to provide you with a soothing, deep sleep.
Durability
While all mattresses will eventually deteriorate, some are much less likely to wear and tear as quickly as others. Durability means that your new mattress should be able to withstand certain forms of deterioration such as sagging and sinking which can compromise just how much support they can give.
Mattress For Sleep Apnea FAQ
Q: What type of mattress is best for sleep apnea?
Memory foam and latex are good ideas for certain conditions and should contour to the body to relieve pressure points. Having decent support whether you are sleeping on your side, back, or are a combination sleeper is essential although it is important to remember that no mattress will cure sleep apnea - but they can make sleep more comfortable, and proper support can help ease your symptoms.
Q: Should I pick a firm or soft mattress for sleep apnea?
Respiratory issues such as sleep apnea can be distressing and cause fatigue due to poor sleep. During our research, we found that medium-firm mattresses make you feel 'lifted' onto the mattress so the body remains in a neutral position and the airways may be kept open. This is if compared to a soft 'sinking' mattress where the body is almost contorted, preferable to a mattress that's too soft and may worsen symptoms of sleep apnea.
Q: Should I use an adjustable base if I have sleep apnea?
Adjustable bases can be beneficial when teamed with a supportive mattress if you suffer from snoring and sleep apnea. Because you can elevate the head of the bed it can assist with alleviating snoring and improving breathing during sleep. So, yes, a good mattress for sleep apnea can be teamed with an adjustable base for optimum effect, remembering that this alone will not cure sleep apnea but can help with symptoms.
Q: Is sleeping upright good for sleep apnea sufferers?
If you can achieve a good angled-up position you can help open the airways much better than when you are laid flat. Being able to elevate your upper body doesn't mean you need a bed with an adjustable base, a firm wedge pillow under the body can help.