Firmer choice 💯 Eve Original Price Range: £499 - £899 8 /10 Exclusive Get 8% OFF the Eve Original £499
⚠️ Show discount code Extra 8% OFF Get 8% off with this voucher code, on any mattress or topper. Terms apply see Eve site for details.
Valid until 29 February 2024
Combine the above discount code + the discount on the Eve Original website .
Best for: Highlights: This level of firmness can be particularly beneficial for some couples looking for a mattress to have sex on. Here’s why:
Firstly, a firmer mattress can provide better support during sex. This is especially important if one or both partners are heavier, as a softer mattress can cause them to sink in too deeply, leading to an uneven surface and potential discomfort. A firmer mattress, like the Eve Original, can offer more stable support and a more even surface, allowing for more comfortable and enjoyable sex.
A firmer mattress also has more bounce, which can provide excitement and variety to sexy play. The memory foam in the Eve Original is responsive and adaptive, so the shoe has a nice spring to it while yet being supportive. As a result, you/your partner will no doubt find it less of a chore to switch positions frequently while engaging in sexual activity.
Don’t forget that a firmer mattress can also provide better edge support too. And that’s mainly important for couples who like to use the edges of the bed during sex, as a softer mattress can lead to sagging and potential falls. The Eve Original’s seven contour zones and high-density base foam provide excellent edge support, ensuring that the mattress remains stable and secure, no matter how, err ‘rough’ you play.
Read my full Eve Original review here .
What should I look for in a mattress suited to sex? Honestly, the main thing to look for is this: consider how firm the mattress is .
Why? Because too soft mattresses prevent you from making the essential thrusting motion, while too firm one can cause discomfort and injury to your back and muscles. In my opinion, medium-firm mattresses are optimal for sexual activity because they offer adequate support and cushioning without compromising on comfort.
Here are a few other considerations to take into account:
Bounce The term “bounce” describes the responsiveness of a mattress to weight and movement. Having the freedom to move around and switch positions with ease during sexual activity makes a bed with strong bounce a must. Too much springiness in a mattress can cause motion transfer and keep your spouse awake, while too little might make you feel like you’re sleeping on the floor. In comparison to an all-foam mattress, the bounce of a latex or hybrid mattress is typically higher.
Noise Okay so noise isn’t typically a deciding factor when people are looking for a new mattress, I get that. But it can have a significant impact on sexual performance, so to speak. A bed that makes annoying noises can be quite distracting, and if you live in a small house or flat with thin walls, it can be downright embarrassing. Try to get a mattress with a low level of motion transmission, a solid build, and a “quiet” design.
Size The size of your mattress is another important factor to consider when shopping for a bed that’s great for sex. While a twin or full-size mattress may be sufficient for sleeping, they may be too small for sexual activity. A queen or king-size mattress will provide plenty of space to move around and try out different positions, without feeling cramped or confined.
Pressure Relief You should check that the mattress supports proper spinal alignment and offers sufficient pressure relief to avoid discomfort. When it comes to sex, this is especially crucial because different postures put different portions of the body under different amounts of stress. Mattresses made of memory foam or a composite material are among the best you can buy for relieving pressure and supporting your spine.
Motion Isolation Motion isolation is another major factor in sexual satisfaction. Your partner’s motions shouldn’t wake you up, and vice versa. A mattress with effective motion isolation can solve this issue for good, ensuring uninterrupted sleep for both spouses. When it comes to reducing the transfer of motion from one side of the bed to the other, foam and hybrid mattresses tend to do the best.
Edge/Side support Last but not least, a good sex mattress must have sturdy edge support. Many couples value the ability to make full use of the mattress without fear of one partner rolling out of bed. Edge support is especially important, and innerspring and hybrid mattresses typically deliver.
What about Price? Of course, cost is certainly a concern, but you shouldn’t sacrifice quality just to save money. Fortunately, many mattress manufacturers now sell beds on their websites, and these beds are both supportive and feature-rich, making them a great value. You may choose a mattress that works for you and your partner in terms of comfort, support, and aesthetics by thinking through all of these elements.
Does my/partner’s weight matter here? Yes.
Couples who weigh more on average will have unique needs when shopping for a mattress suitable for sex, frankly. Some considerations are as follows:
Weight distribution: Those who weigh more should look for a mattress with a high weight capacity. If your mattress is too soft or doesn’t provide adequate support, your body may sink into it, making it more difficult to move around and change positions during sex.Those who weigh more should really consider investing in a firmer mattress in order to get the proper support they need and to avoid sinking. A mattress that is overly firm might be uncomfortable and may generate pressure spots, so it’s crucial to strike a balance between the two. That’s why I picked the Eve Original above. 🙂 There’s no beating around the bush: Mattresses used by heavier people are likely to be subject to more wear and tear, so it’s crucial to select one that is well-made and will endure for a long time. Try to find a mattress that is both well-made (ideally in the UK) but one that’s also comfortable. Good edge support can help larger persons feel more secure and less likely to roll off the side of the bed during sexual activity.Size. Consider upgrading to a king or California king mattress to support your weight and movement during sex. A larger bed means more room to spread out and find your ideal sleeping position. What type of mattress should I choose? Memory foam Mattresses made of memory foam are traditionally the most popular in the UK. That’s because of the pressure reduction they provide, and of course, they’re fairly cheap to buy. But memory foam’s sinking sensation and limited mobility may make it unsuitable for sexual activity for some, particularly heavier people . In addition, some sexual positions may not be comfortable on a memory foam mattress because of the lack of bounce and edge support. If that sounds liek you, then there’s a partial solution: you may prefer a memory foam mattress with a larger and firmer base layer for increased support.
There’s also the hybrid mattress type, which is similar but has a mix of memory foam and spring.
Innersprings Mattresses with innersprings are the traditional “sex bed” because of their responsiveness and bounce. The coil structure produces natural bounce that might improve sexual activity, and the stiffer sensation can facilitate more effortless movement. It’s true that certain innerspring mattresses make noise during sex and don’t provide enough pressure relief or motion isolation to be truly pleasant.
Latex So, mattresses made of latex have a natural springiness and responsiveness that may make them ideal for sexual activity. The material’s long lifespan and pressure-relieving properties make it a popular choose for bedtime. In addition, those who suffer from dust mite or mould allergies may find relief with a latex mattress. Increasingly latex mattresses are a popular option, but they can be more expensive than other options, and not everyone likes the feel of latex-based materials on their skin. Definitely one to try out and see for yourself!
What about the sleep trials? It’s a fair question.
Typically, mattress sleep trials allow you to test the mattress in your home for a certain period of time, usually ranging from 30 to 365 nights, and most companies allow you to return the mattress for a full refund if you’re not satisfied. However, it’s important to read the fine print in the company’s policy, as some may have specific exclusions or limitations.
When it comes to using the mattress for sexual activity, it’s best to use caution and considerate behaviour to avoid causing damage to the mattress. Some companies may explicitly state that their sleep trial is void if the mattress is damaged, so it’s important to check the policy.
That being said, as long as the mattress is not damaged beyond reasonable wear and tear, you should still be able to take advantage of the sleep trial even if you use it for sexual activity. Hooray!
Which firmness is best? Choosing the right mattress for sex is like selecting the perfect dance partner, fo rexample. Just as a smooth, level dance floor with just the right amount of give can enhance the performance of a dancer, a mattress with the optimal mix of firmness, bounce, and noise control can elevate the experience of intimacy between partners.
It’s important to consider firmness level when looking for a mattress that’s suitable for sex. Typically, mattresses with a medium soft to firm rating, between 4 and 7 on a scale of 1-10 (with 10 being the hardest), are the best choice. Extremely soft mattresses may feel unstable and lack support during sex, especially near the edges of the bed. On the other hand, extremely firm mattresses can be uncomfortable to move on, if you catch my drift.
However, beyond firmness level, other factors like mattress type and responsiveness can also impact how suitable a mattress is for sex. Mattress preferences can also vary depending on individual body weight and shape, and are highly subjective. It’s worth noting that the range of medium soft to firm mattresses is generally the most popular among people, for both sleep and sex.
Ultimately, when choosing a mattress for sex, it’s essential to consider personal preferences and needs, including factors like motion isolation, edge support, and pressure relief. It’s also a good idea to look for promotions and discounts online, which can help make a high-quality mattress more affordable.
What about pillows? I’m only going to touch on this briefly here, and will probably extend it into another full article later.
But in short: don’t overlook the pillow. The best pillow here can make all the difference.
One popular type of pillow for sex is the wedge pillow, which is designed to provide support and lift to the hips and pelvis. This can help create better angles for penetration and allow for deeper penetration without straining the back or hips. Additionally, wedge pillows can be used for a variety of other sexual positions, such as doggy style or oral sex.
An example of a wedge-pillow. Another option for sex pillows is body pillows , which can provide support for multiple areas of the body. They can be used to prop up the hips and pelvis, support the back, or provide cushioning for knees and elbows during different positions. Body pillows can also be used for more comfortable cuddling and intimacy outside of sexual activity.
More from WhatMattress... Should I get a mattress topper then? Sex is an activity that can cause both of you to sweat – this can cause your mattress to become damp and clammy over time. Mattress toppers, thankfully, are a simple means of fixing this issue.
Plus, that’s not the only benefit: to add more comfort to your bed, you might use a mattress topper for that too. Memory foam, latex, and synthetic down are just some of the materials used. A mattress topper helps prevent sweat and other fluids from damaging your mattress. Extra comfort and support from a mattress topper can make your bed an even more alluring place for a passionate embrace.
Think about the material and how well it breathes when picking out a mattress topper for sex, too: to avoid overheating and maximise comfort during sex, use a topper that allows air to circulate. Because of its increased frequency of usage during sex, it is important to get a topping that is simple to care for and clean.
We're completely independent from any mattress company. We've spent countless hours curating and reviewing mattresses that anyone can buy in the UK, and have been doing so since 2018. Mattresses tested: 82 Total hours testing: 602 Pillows tested: 24 Total hours testing: 183 Duvets tested: 35+ Funds spent on testing: £7,500+
Conclusion So there we have it.
To reiterate, it’s hugely important to think about things like firmness, bounce, motion isolation, edge support, and pressure relief while shopping for the best mattress for sex . For consistent support , a hybrid or latex mattress is your best bet, while certain innerspring and memory foam models may also work well.
It’s important to think about your sleeping position, weight, and budget while shopping for a mattress for this specific purpose, among other factors. Honestly, I know that mattresses can be a big investment, so it’s important to make sure you get the perfect one by taking advantage of any available trial periods or warranteis before you buy online.
Read this next... The Brook + Wilde Ultima is a luxurious and sophisticated mattress produced by the little-known British manufacturer, Br...
A mattress topper can be a great alternative to buying a new mattress – they’re nearly always going to be mu...
When I first started writing about mattresses, it pretty much coincided with the birth of the entire “mattress in ...
Was this article helpful?
Yes No
Can any mattress be good for sex? While any mattress can be used for sex, some mattresses are better than others. Look for a mattress with a medium to firm level of firmness, good motion isolation, and edge support. Hybrid and latex mattresses tend to be the best options for sex.
Do I need to buy a specific mattress for sex? Of course not, but it can certainly help. Keep in mind that a good mattress for sex can also provide benefits for overall sleep quality and comfort.
How we reviewed this article: Our experts continually monitor the mattress & sleep tech space, and we update our reviews & articles when new information becomes available.
3rd May 2023 4th August 2023 2nd May 2023 3rd January 2024 
