"Mattress thickness" is often associated with luxury and comfort since many hotel mattresses are thick and highly comfortable.
The height or thickness of your mattress has an impact on its ability to support your body as well as its comfort. A thin mattress may not provide adequate support for your body and may cause aches and pains. However, it can get really difficult to get in and out of a mattress that is too tall.
If you are planning to buy a new mattress and are wondering if getting a hotel-like mattress height will elevate your sleep quality, this guide will try to answer your questions.
Mattress Thickness Chart
There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to choosing the right mattress thickness. In fact, the right one depends on your specific needs. Many high-quality mattresses are on the thicker spectrum, but this will depend on many factors.
Here’s a breakdown of the mattress thickness levels on the market.
Mattress Thickness (in inches) |
Mattress Type |
2-5 inches |
Low-profile mattress |
5-8 inches |
Slim mattress |
8-12 inches |
Standard mattress |
12-16 inches |
Thick, deep or tall mattress |
Above 16 inches |
Extra deep, extra thick, or extra tall mattress |
Mattresses usually consist of a comfort layer, a support layer, and sometimes a pillowtop layer that determine their quality. The composition of these layers affects the thickness, quality, and comfort of your mattress.
The pillow top and comfort layers are usually made of softer polyfoam, memory foam, or latex that improve the comfort of the mattress. These are usually thin, plush, and contouring components that provide pressure relief to the sleeper.
The base layer, also known as the foundation layer, is thicker and denser than the comfort or pillowtop layers. This can be created from higher-density foam, latex, or innerspring layers. This base layer aids in the proper distribution of weight while preventing the sleep surface from sagging.
Low Profile Mattress (2-5 inches)
Low-profile mattresses that are as thin as 2 to 5 inches are ideal for cribs or infant use. These are supportive enough to support kids, given that you use something that is slightly firm.
Some low mattresses are also ideal for trundle beds and bunk beds where mattress thickness requirements are limited to maintain safety and save space. Low profile mattresses will also suffice for spaces that are seldom used, like a guest room.
Slim Mattress (5-8 inches)
Slim mattresses are a few inches taller than low-profile mattresses, providing some additional comfort for adult sleepers. If you are having a hard time getting in and out of a thicker mattress, a slim mattress can be a good choice for easy mobility. Bedrooms with higher bed frames can also benefit from a slim mattress.
If you want some additional support for your kids or guests, a slim mattress is also an ideal choice.
Standard Mattress (8-12 inches)
An average mattress has a height ranging between 8 and 12 inches. This height range is ideal for most adult sleepers who need more support for their sleeping position.
A standard mattress is thick enough to accommodate various sleeping positions and body types. But they are thin enough to allow the sleeper to get in and out of the mattress with ease.
In terms of quality and price, many mattress varieties come in this height range, so you can find a large variety of materials and price points according to your requirements.
Our Somnuz mattresses fall under this standard range to accommodate different body types, sleeping positions, and comfort preferences. These supportive and breathable mattresses are engineered with high-quality comfort and support layers that are thick enough to keep you comfortable regardless of your preferences.
Because of their versatile pocketed spring structures, our Somnuz mattresses are also ideal for sharing.
Thick, Deep or Tall Mattress (12-16 inches)
Many expensive and luxury mattresses are in this height range and are usually known for their softer feel. Many of these mattresses feature a supportive inner coil structure that makes up most of the height.
Thick, deep, or tall mattresses are highly comfortable for side sleepers due to their softer structures. They also come at a higher price point compared to thinner mattresses.
Extra Deep, Extra Thick, or Extra Tall Mattress (above 16 inches)
Mattresses that are extra thick are not as common as the first four mattress types that we mentioned. This is because they come at higher prices and are not necessary for many sleepers.
How to Choose the Right Mattress Firmness
Does the height of your mattress affect your comfort? The answer is yes. In fact, the height of your mattress also matters in terms of its support, price, and quality.
As a general rule of thumb, a thicker mattress is also a softer mattress. Think about the thick and cloudy beds in hotels. Here’s how you can determine the right mattress height for your needs.
Body Weight
Your weight is an important determining factor when buying a mattress in Singapore.
Your body can put more or less pressure on the mattress depending on how light or heavy you are. The right mattress should receive the pressure from your body very well without sinking or being too thick for your needs.
For sleepers who weigh 130 pounds or less, a mattress that is slightly tall and thick is a good choice to ensure pressure relief without the unnecessary pushback of a firm mattress.
For average sleepers, a standard-size mattress can provide plenty of options. Depending on their preferences, people who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds can also choose between a slightly thicker or a slightly firmer mattress.
For sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds, a firmer mattress that is 12 to 14 inches thick will provide the right support without too much sinking.
Sleeping Position
Like mattress firmness, your sleeping position can also determine the best thickness for your mattress.
Side sleepers require a thicker mattress to sink their hips and shoulders without bumping into the bed frame. Back sleepers need a mattress that is at least 10 inches thick to support the neutral alignment of their spine. A stomach sleeper can also follow this height, given that the comfort layer is thicker to prevent unnecessary sinking.
Medical Condition
Factors such as back pain, arthritis, mobility issues, and pregnancy can affect your mattress height requirements. When dealing with some medical conditions, look for a mattress with ample cushioning and an accessible height so you can conveniently get in and out of your bed.
Bed Frame Height
Taller bed frames typically need a thinner mattress. This can be due to convenience or safety. When buying a mattress in Singapore, make sure to match its height to the height of your bed frame to prevent discomfort.
When buying a mattress for your bunk bed, make sure that your mattress is tall enough to support you but thin enough to not exceed the safety rails.
Takeaway
The thickness of your mattress matters. A mattress that is too thin may lack support for the sleeper, while a mattress that is too thick can be bad for people with mobility issues.
To determine the right mattress height for your needs, always consider your body type, sleeping position, medical condition, and bed frame height. Of course, your comfort should also be taken into consideration. Buying a mattress between 10 and 12 inches can help you strike a balance between a thin and a thick mattress.