10 Best Cooling Memory Foam Mattresses – Expert Reviews
Traditional memory foam mattress enthusiast? Okay. But you’re waking up warm and heavy because your mattress cannot dissipate heat effectively, leaving you sweaty by morning. Sounds like you?
Memory foam mattresses are good for pressure relief and give a contouring feel, but let’s be real — they can get hot.
If you prefer memory foam but are unable to beat night-time sweats, I would advise you switch to a cool gel mattress, instead.
Identically I used to think that adding a fan, cranking up the AC, or investing in breathable bedsheets were potent solutions. But then I learned about the cooling gel memory foam mattresses.
These beds are designed to give you the plush comfort of memory foam mattresses without heat build-up. Rather, they use gel-infused foam and moisture-wicking technology to keep heat away from your body, keeping you cool all night long.
Here, I’ve rounded up the 10 best memory foam cool gel mattresses that deliver. My research specifically focuses on factors like – comfort, support, and – most importantly — temperature regulation.
Let me first begin with the concept of gel foam.
Cool Gel Mattress – The Concept
Gel memory foam is a material that combines traditional memory foam with gel crystals or beads. It became popular in the early 2010s as a solution to the heat retention issues associated with traditional memory foam mattresses.
By incorporating gel, these mattresses provide a cooler sleeping surface and alleviate discomfort caused by excessive heat buildup.
How Does a Cool Gel Mattress Work?
Before diving into my list of gel mattresses, let’s break it down. What makes a cool gel mattress different from regular memory foam?
- Gel-Infused Memory Foam – Tiny gel beads are infused into the foam to help absorb and dissipate heat.
- Open-Cell Structure – Some brands use a more breathable foam design to improve airflow.
- Cooling Covers – Many of the best memory foam mattresses come with cooling covers made of phase-change materials that feel cool to the touch.
The result? You get the same plush memory foam feel—minus the heat.
What to Look For When Buying a Cooling Gel Foam Mattress?
Not all cool gel mattresses are created equal. Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing the best one.
- Gel-Infusion Type – Look for gel-infused or gel-swirl memory foam for better heat dissipation.
- Foam Density & Layers – Higher-density foams last longer, while multiple layers enhance breathability.
- Phase-change materials (PCM) – Some mattresses use phase-change materials that have the ability to absorb, store, and release heat. These materials help to maintain a more stable temperature throughout the night.
- Cooling Cover – Opt for phase-change materials or breathable fabric like Tencel or bamboo for extra cooling.
Why Do These Criteria Matter?
Each of these factors plays a crucial role in your sleep quality.
- Better Heat Regulation – Gel-infused foams and breathable covers actively pull heat away, keeping you cool.
- Comfort That Lasts Long – High-density foams ensure durability and prevent premature sagging.
- Tailored Design – The right firmness level and motion isolation prevent aches and improve spinal alignment.
By focusing on these features, you’ll select a cool gel mattress that delivers both – comfort and cooling.
Top 10 Cool Gel Memory Foam Mattresses
You can find a number of gel memory foam mattresses on sale all over the internet. But you feel the pressure when it’s actually time to get a new mattress. Running short on time on mattress deals and with an array of mattress options all over, you start to lose focus on what really caters to your needs.
In this section I’ve detailed on mattress comparisons of the 10 best cool gel mattresses to help you decide on the factors that really matter. Let’s take a look!
And, if you’re seeking mattress deals, visit our ‘best time to buy a mattress’ page for a transparent outlook.
Recommended Cooling Mattresses for Temperature Control
Table: 10 Best Cool Gel Memory Foam Mattresses
| Mattress Name | Type | Price for Queen Mattresses | Firmness | Key Cooling Features | Warranty/Trial | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt + Cooling
(4.38/5.00) |
Memory Foam | Approx. $2000 | Medium | TEMPUR-CM+ cooling tech, phase-change cover | 10 years / 90-night trial | Couples, hot sleepers |
| Saatva Contour5
(4.50/5.00) |
Memory Foam | Approx. $2900 | Medium-Firm | CoolVent System, 1.5″ gel-infused high-density foam, breathable organic cotton cover | Lifetime / 365-night trial | Hot sleepers, those wanting contouring support |
| Cocoon by Sealy Chill
(3.71/5.00) |
Memory Foam | Approx. $1000 | Medium-Firm | Phase-change cooling cover, heat-wicking foam layers | 10 years / 100-night trial | Budget-conscious hot sleepers |
| Leesa Original Hybrid
(3.92/5.00) |
Hybrid | Approx. $1400 | Medium | Cooling gel memory foam, pocketed coils for airflow | 10 years / 100-night trial | Combo sleepers, back pain relief |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
(4.17/5.00) |
Hybrid | Approx. $2200 | Soft, Medium, Firm | TitanCool phase-change material, CopperFlex gel foam | 10 years / 120-night trial | Hot sleepers, multiple firmness options |
| Helix Midnight With GlacioTex Cover
(4.29/5.00) |
Hybrid | Approx. $1300 | Medium | GlacioTex cooling cover, breathable foam layers | 15 years / 100-night trial | Side sleepers, pressure relief seekers |
| Casper Snow
(4.25/5.00) |
Hybrid | Approx. $2400 | Medium | Snow Technology cools 5° lower, zoned support for cooling and airflow | 10 years / 100-night trial | Sleepers needing spinal alignment and cooling |
| Serta Perfect Sleeper X Hybrid
(4.25/5.00) |
Hybrid | Approx. $1400 | Medium | Cool Twist Gel Memory Foam, enhanced airflow | 10 years / 120-night trial | Hot sleepers, warm climate dwellers |
| Puffy Cloud Mattress
(3.83/5.00) |
Memory Foam | Approx. $2200 | Medium | Cooling Cloud Gel Foam, Climate Comfort Foam | Lifetime / 101-night trial | Pressure relief, all sleep positions |
| PurpleFlex Mattress
(4.25/5.00) |
Gel Grid Hybrid | Approx. $1200 | Medium-Firm | GelFlex Grid, breathable construction | 10 years / 100-night trial | Hot sleepers, motion isolation |
10 Best Cooling Gel Mattresses for Temperature Control
1. Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress
Read Review
.webp)
Cooling Features
- Advanced Cooling: TEMPUR-CM+ material and a phase-change cover wick away heat for a cool sleep.
- Pressure-Relieving Comfort: TEMPUR memory foam contours to your body, reducing pressure points.
- Motion Isolation: Perfect for couples—no sleep disruptions when your partner moves.
2. Saatva Contour5 Mattress
Read Review
Unique Features
- Gel-Infused Foam: 5-inch high-density gel memory foam layer dissipates heat efficiently.
- Breathable Comfort: Its CoolVent System prevents heat buildup.
- Support & Durability: 3-inch ultra-premium 5lb memory foam contours to your body for deep support.
3. Cocoon by Sealy Chill Mattress
Read Review
.webp)
Cooling Features
- Cool-to-Touch Cover: The phase-change fabric actively absorbs and releases heat.
- Medium-Firm Support: Ideal for those who want a balance of softness and firmness.
- Great for Budget Buyers: A premium cooling mattress at an affordable price.
4. Leesa Original Hybrid Mattress
Read Review
Uniqueness
- Cooling Technology: Cooling gel foam top layer dissipates body heat.
- Hybrid Design: A mix of memory foam and pocketed coils for breathability and support.
- Combination Sleepers: Offers contouring comfort with a slight bounce for ease of movement.
5. Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
Read Review
Cooling Features
- TitanCool Technology: Phase-change material actively regulates temperature.
- Multiple Firmness Levels: Available in soft, medium, and firm for personalized comfort.
- Responsive Support: CopperFlex gel foam and coils enhance airflow and cooling.
6. Helix Midnight Luxe With GlacioTex Cover
Read Review
.webp)
Unique Features
- GlacioTex Cooling Cover: Feels cool instantly upon contact.
- Targeted Pressure Relief: Memory foam and zoned support cushion pressure points.
- Perfect for Side Sleepers: Medium firmness offers contouring support for shoulders and hips.
7. Casper Snow Mattress
Read Review
Cooling Features
- Snow Technology: Keeps you 5° cooler all night for a refreshing sleep.
- Zoned Support: Targeted gel pods ensure proper spinal alignment.
- Great for Back and Side Sleepers: Balances support and cushioning for comfort
8. Serta Perfect Sleeper X Hybrid Mattress
Read Review
Cooling Features
- Cool Twist Gel Memory Foam: Promotes airflow and wicks heat away.
- Medium Firmness: Ideal for most sleep positions, especially back and side sleepers.
- Ideal for Warm Climates: Designed to keep sleepers cool even in hot weather.
9. Puffy Cloud Mattress
Read Review
Cooling Features
- Cooling Cloud Gel Foam: Helps dissipate heat while cradling the body.
- Climate Comfort Layer: Enhances airflow for all-night cooling.
- All-Sleep Position Friendly: Medium firmness adapts to side, back, and stomach sleepers.
10. PurpleFlex Mattress
Read Review
Cooling Features
- GelFlex Grid: Provides airflow and responsive support for a cool sleep.
- Breathable Construction: Heat dissipates quickly for a sweat-free night.
- Great for Hot Sleepers: Ideal for those who overheat easily.
Types of Gel Used in Memory Foam Mattresses
Cooling gel in memory foam mattresses comes in 2 types.
- Thermal Gel – Feels cool to the touch when you lie down, offering instant relief but may not maintain cooling all night.
- Phase-Changing Gel (PCM) – Absorbs and releases heat by changing from solid to liquid as the mattress warms up, helping to regulate temperature throughout the night.
If you overheat later in the night, go for phase-changing gel. For a cooling sensation on contact, thermal gel works best. Many top mattresses combine both for all-night comfort!
How Are These Mattresses Different From Conventional Memory Foam Mattresses?
Gel-infused memory foam mattresses are designed to address some of the limitations of traditional memory foam, particularly in terms of temperature regulation and responsiveness.
Here’s a concise comparison.
Table: Cool Gel Memory Foam Vs. Traditional Memory Foam
| Feature | Traditional Memory Foam Mattress | Gel-Infused Memory Foam Mattress |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature Control | Tends to retain body heat due to its dense structure, which can lead to a warmer sleeping experience. | Incorporates gel particles or beads that help dissipate heat, providing a cooler sleep surface. |
| Responsiveness | Offers a slow response to pressure, conforming closely to the body, which can sometimes make movement feel restricted. | The addition of gel can enhance the foam’s responsiveness, making it quicker to return to its original shape and easier to move on. |
| Support & Comfort | Provides reliable pressure relief by evenly distributing body weight, beneficial for those with joint or back pain. | Maintains the pressure-relieving benefits of traditional memory foam while offering improved temperature regulation. |
| Durability | High-density foam is durable but may soften over time with prolonged use. | Similar durability to traditional memory foam; however, the inclusion of gel doesn’t significantly impact longevity. |
Must You Invest in a Cool Gel Foam Mattress?
You must balance out the pros and cons with your unique sleep needs to figure that out. So, let’s do an in-depth analysis first.
Pros – Gel Memory Foam Mattress
- Cooling Sleep Environment
One of the main advantages of gel memory foam mattresses is their cooling capabilities. The inclusion of gel particles helps draw heat away from the sleeper, promoting a more comfortable and temperature-neutral sleep environment.
- Enhanced Support
Additionally, gel memory foam mattresses are known for their supportive and comfortable property. They conform to the body, promoting proper spinal alignment and reducing pressure points.
- Free of Pests
Memory foam mattresses protect you against pests like dust mites or bugs. Its compact structure and dense material make it difficult for insects or bugs to infest. Can we find bed bugs in memory foam mattresses? The most likely answer is no. Bed bugs cannot burrow inside a dense foam mattress, unless there are cuts or openings on the mattress.
Cons – Gel Memory Foam Mattress
- Budget-Friendly
Note that gel memory foam mattresses tend to be more expensive compared to traditional memory foam mattresses. The addition of gel and the manufacturing processes involved contribute to the higher price point.
Moreover, you can simply choose from the table of top 10 gel foam mattresses that I’ve provided in this blog or find your mattress here.
- Synthetic Materials
Another consideration is the composition of the gel itself. Gel memory foam, like traditional memory foam, is a synthetic material. It’s crucial to ensure that the materials used in the mattress are safe and free from harmful chemicals.
Finally, look for certifications that matter. Certificates such as CertiPUR-US or Greenguard, guarantee that your mattress meets specific standards for low emissions and environmental safety.
What If You Face Gel Foam Allergy Symptoms?
Causes
Some common causes of allergic reaction from cooling gel memory foam mattresses are:
- Off-gassing and smell
- Chemicals in foam mattress
- Allergic Reactions from Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Allergic reactions from mattresses can be identified by certain body symptoms.
Symptoms
Some common gel memory foam mattress allergy symptoms are:
- Nasal cavity irritation
- Feeling of nausea
- Rashes
- Dizziness
Relief from Memory Foam Mattress Allergies
Here are some useful tips to follow.
1) Tip 1: Allow for extended off-gassing
When purchasing a bed in a box, let it off-gas for a few extra days to ensure any additional chemicals and pests are released.
2) Tip 2: Use an organic mattress protector
Cover your existing mattress with an organic material mattress protector, such as one made of organic cotton. This can act as a barrier, reducing allergic reactions. Remember to wash the protector regularly and, if possible, the cover too to minimize allergens.
3) Tip 3: Keep pets off the bed
It’s best to prevent pets from accessing your bed, as they can carry allergens and foreign critters that may worsen your allergic condition.
By following these measures, you can minimize the likelihood of allergic reactions to your foam mattress. This will help you create a more comfortable sleeping environment.
What If Your New Gel Mattress’s Corners Are Not Expanding?
In case you face this scenario, carry out these simple, practical steps.
1) Step 1: Placing the mattress on the floor and not your bed
If your bed frame isn’t suitable for a memory foam mattress and it doesn’t expand properly, try placing the mattress on the floor. This can allow for more even expansion. Ensure the floor is clean to avoid any fiberglass particles that may escape if the cover gets punctured.
2) Step 2: Keeping the mattress in a warm environment
Memory foam expands better in warmer conditions. Adjust your thermostat to at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit or higher to encourage expansion. While some suggest using steam on mattress corners, it’s not recommended due to potential moisture accumulation and related issues.
3) Step 3: Rolling the mattress
Surprisingly, giving your mattress a massage by rolling on top of it or walking on it with clean feet can help with expansion. This activity can distribute the foam more evenly and promote better expansion.
4) Step 4: Open ventilation
Enhance air circulation in the room by opening windows and creating a draft. This can aid in both mattress expansion and off-gassing. Placing a fan near the mattress is another option to increase airflow.
Smart-Take!
Is a cool gel memory foam mattress right for you?
If you’re like me and love the hug of memory foam but hate waking up in a sweat, switching to a cool gel mattress can be worth it. Remember – an ideal memory foam mattress isn’t just about softness—it’s about keeping you cool, supported, and comfortable all night long.
Personally, switching to a cooling gel memory foam mattress changed my sleep game entirely. No more overheating, no more restless tossing—just simple, uninterrupted sleep.
So, if you’re looking for a memory foam mattress that keeps you cool, one of these 10 picks will surely align with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is cooling gel memory foam good for side sleepers?
Yes! It contours to the body, relieves pressure on your shoulders and hips while maintaining spinal alignment. Softer options work best for side sleepers.
- Does memory foam contain fiberglass?
No, memory foam itself doesn’t have fiberglass. However, some mattress covers may include it, so I recommend you buy from reputable brands.
- How long does a cool gel memory foam mattress last?
A high-quality gel memory foam mattress can last 10 to 15 years with proper care.
- Do you need to flip a cool gel foam mattress?
No, but you should rotate it 180° every 3-6 months to ensure even wear.
- Can a gel memory foam mattress help with back pain?
Yes! It provides reliable back support and helps regulate body heat, making it ideal for those with back pain and night sweats.