Best soft mattresses of 2021 – CNET [CNET]

Who can resist the feel of a soft mattress, or the cushy cloud-like feeling they give you when you lie down? Soft mattresses are especially favored by smaller or lighter sleepers (generally those weighing 130 pounds or less), who sink in less than larger folks and feel cradled by the gentle contouring while they sleep. Also, couples, side sleepers and people who just generally enjoy that sensation of sinking down into their mattress tend to prefer softer bed options. 

But how can you tell which mattresses are softer when shopping online? Usually, online mattress companies use a firmness scale of 1 to 10 to let you know how firm or soft each mattress is. A rating of 1 or 2 is softest, while the 3 to 4 range is considered a medium-soft bed.

We’ve scoured the corners of the sleep realm for comfortable mattress options to bring you the best soft mattresses of 2021 and who they’re best for to help you find the right mattress for your needs. They’re listed below, each with a mattress review explanation of why they’re a top-level soft mattress. And, if you’re looking to upgrade your whole sleeping arrangement, we have suggestions for the best pillows and the best sheets as well.

The prices listed are for queen size and may vary with sales.

Read more: The best gel mattresses of 2021