Ever tried to order a pizza with someone who has totally different tastes? Maybe you’re feeling pepperoni and cheese, but they’re craving ham and pineapple. How do you find a way forward?

It’s easy to get into a tug-of-war over pizza toppings. Imagine now that you’ll be eating that pizza every night. That’s the dilemma facing couples who have different comfort preferences. Some people are fans of firm sleep surfaces, while others prefer to sink into a cocoon of softness. So how do you find a mattress that satisfies both tastes?

Fortunately, finding a mattress that keeps both you and your partner happy has never been easier. Enjoy a great night’s sleep without compromise. Let’s explore your options so you can find that perfect comfort sweet spot and keep bedtime a happy time for everyone.

Understanding Your Comfort Needs

Everyone has their own unique sense of what's comfortable.

Some preferences are based on feel – do you like your mattress soft, firm, or a little in between?

Some preferences are based on sleeping position – are you a side, back, or stomach sleeper?

Some preferences are shaped by sleep disruptors – do you snore, have acid reflux, or back pain?

You might need a firm memory foam mattress to ease joint pain, but your partner, a side sleeper, might crave a plush, soft surface. So what do you do when comfort preferences clash? The key is to first learn about all your potential mattress comfort options and which ones are best suited for your sleep position and the issues that disrupt your sleep.

Type of sleeper

Your sleeping position plays a major role in determining your ideal mattress comfort.

• Side sleeper: A mattress with a soft and supportive top layer is recommended to reduce pressure on hips and shoulders.
• Back sleeper: A firm or medium-firm mattress is recommended to keep your spine aligned.
• Stomach sleeper: A firm or extra-firm mattress is recommended to keep your hips and stomach from sinking too deeply into the mattress.

Sleep disruptors

Some common sleeping issues can be alleviated with a mattress change.

• Snoring: An old or sagging mattress may be the culprit. Or you can try to switch to sleeping on your side, in which case a memory foam mattress can help you make the transition.
• Acid reflux: Try an adjustable base to prop up your upper body and give you much-needed relief. 
• Back pain: A medium-firm or memory foam mattress can better mold to your body; also consider mattresses with targeted support and pressure relief.
• Allergies: Choose a hypoallergenic mattress constructed with materials resistant to dust mites, mold, and allergens.

Key Features to Look For

When you’re on the hunt for the best mattress for couples, some features are definitely worth your attention.

Personalized comfort

Certain mattress innovations allow both partners to personalize their firmness and sleeping position. A smart mattress for couples is typically split, ensuring both partners can customize their ideal comfort and support setting with zero compromise. The firmness levels can be controlled by a remote or mobile app. Some smart mattresses even track and store your sleep data to help you understand sleep patterns over time.

Another option is a split king or split queen mattress, which is two mattresses placed side by side. You can pair these mattresses with adjustable bases to independently control the elevation of your head or feet. This means you can find the perfect angle for reading or sleeping without disturbing your partner’s side of the bed. If you just want independent head adjustments, a split head king may be your best bet.

Motion isolation

If you sleep beside someone who tosses and turns all night, you know firsthand how that can disrupt your sleep. Memory foam mattresses are built to absorb motion and minimize disruptions caused by a restless partner. A split king or queen mattress will also limit motion transfer from one side to the other.

Temperature regulation

Breathability and temperature control are essential for a good night's rest. To keep cool, look for mattresses that use gel-infused memory foam designed to dissipate heat. Other great options include mattresses with a special cool-to-the-touch top layer or cover. In general, choose less dense mattresses that naturally allow for greater airflow.

Size

The size of your bedroom isn’t the only factor that should determine your mattress size. If you’re choosing between a king or a queen, consider the following:

• Do you like to cuddle or sprawl out?
• Do you or your partner toss and turn?
• Do you often share a bed with children or pets?

A queen mattress offers a balance of space and intimacy, while a king mattress provides more room for movement and to stretch out.

To learn more about your mattress dimension options, check out our Mattress Size Guide.

Test Before You Rest

You’ve done your mattress homework, now you need to experience your options in person. You and your partner can take a free mattress comfort test at any Raymour & Flanigan Sleep Center. Get a feel for what’s out there, from memory foam to hybrid mattresses. Lay on the mattresses together and discuss what you like and don’t like about each. Plus, chatting with a knowledgeable sleep consultant can give you insights into what might work best for you both.

And when you do select a mattress, make sure you clean it regularly. This can help extend its life and ensure both you and your partner have comfy nights for years to come.