The best mattresses for motion isolation will have latex or memory foam layers, as these materials adapt quickly and accurately to a person’s body shape. Learn about the best motion isolation mattresses and toppers here.

Motion isolation mattresses may benefit light sleepers who wake up easily when others move in a bed. Plus, those who go to bed later or get up earlier than others may find that these products help prevent them from waking up other people.

Manufacturers often design motion isolation mattresses with individually encased coils or memory foam, which can help reduce motion transfer throughout the mattress.

This article discusses the best mattresses and mattress toppers for motion isolation, looks into the factors a person may wish to consider when buying these products, and answers some frequently asked questions.

Below, we look at two of the best mattresses for motion isolation.

A mattress topper is an affordable and lightweight alternative to purchasing a new mattress. Learn about one of the best options below.

The table below compares the best mattresses and toppers for motion isolation on key features.

MaterialsFirmnessTrial periodPrice (queen)
The EcoCloudlatexmedium120 nights$1,999
Helix Midnight Mattressfoam and springsmedium100 nights$1,373.80
TEMPUR-Adapt Topperfoammediumno$419

MNT chooses mattresses, sheets, pillows, and other bedding that meet the following criteria:

  • Certifications: MNT will choose products that have CertiPUR-US or other certifications. This means that the products are low in pollutants and free from heavy metals and volatile organic compounds.
  • Size: MNT chooses products that are available in various sizes.
  • Materials and fill: MNT selects products made from different materials and fills, such as memory foam and latex, to suit a range of sleep styles and lifestyles.
  • Sleep trials: MNT chooses companies that offer a sleep trial.
  • Warranties and return policies: MNT will include products with warranties and clear returns policies.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

Opting for a split mattress may help reduce motion transfer, as the mattresses are separate and linked in the middle. People may also want to push two twin mattresses together to reduce the risk of motion transfer.

Buying a mattress that contains fewer bouncy materials may also help. Memory foam is a popular mattress material that does not create bounce when a person lies on it, which may reduce motion transfer while someone sleeps.

While buying a motion isolation mattress or mattress topper is one option for reducing motion transfer in bed, there are other methods people can consider instead.

For instance, stress can cause problems with sleep quality, meaning a person may be more likely to wake up during the night or have more restless sleep. To help manage stress, a person may wish to try practicing mindfulness meditation before bed, getting regular exercise, and reducing their caffeine and alcohol intake.

If a person often experiences disturbed sleep, they should speak with a doctor to find out what may be causing their sleep quality to drop and which treatment options may be most suitable.

When choosing a motion transfer mattress, people should consider their unique sleep preferences and needs.

Two key considerations are materials and price.

Materials

Memory foam, springs, and latex materials may enhance motion isolation, as these materials naturally absorb movement.

People may also look for mattresses that hold one or more of the following certifications:

These certifications show that the mattress is made with quality materials that are safe for human health and, in some cases, certified organic.

A person should avoid mattresses that contain materials they are allergic to. For instance, people with a latex allergy should avoid mattresses containing latex.

Cost and benefits

Many companies offer payment plans that allow customers to pay in monthly instalments, which can help make a motion transfer mattress a more affordable option for some.

People who are mattress shopping should also check which manufacturers offer a trial period. Many mattress manufacturers state that it can take 30 to 90 days to get used to or “break in” a new mattress.

Sleep trials allow people to try out the mattress for a few weeks or months before making a final decision on their purchase.

While motion-isolating mattress toppers are a more affordable alternative to buying a new mattress, the benefits of a mattress topper will depend on how well the existing mattress isolates motion.

A memory foam mattress may be the best option for motion isolation for some people. This type of mattress tends to absorb motion on the surface of the mattress and provides a stable sleep surface.

Other possible choices are latex mattresses and hybrid mattresses with pocketed springs and thick comfort layers. Conversely, innerspring mattresses may transfer the most motion of all these options.

The WinkBeds EcoCloud mattress may be worth considering if a person changes positions frequently while they sleep and wants to reduce motion transfer.

The manufacturers use organic Talalay latex to make this mattress. This material gives the mattress a level of elasticity that allows it to mold to a person’s body shape as they change positions.

If a person wants to reduce motion transfer on their mattress, they can consider buying a mattress topper designed to isolate motion. This can be a less expensive option than buying a new motion transfer mattress.

Motion isolation mattresses can help reduce the disturbance a person experiences from another person moving around during sleep.

Mattresses that offer motion isolation may contain a combination of memory foam, springs, and latex layers.

Mattress toppers with motion isolation provide a low cost alternative to purchasing a new mattress. They are also useful for traveling or changing a mattress to suit the needs of different sleepers.