Best Mattress for Airbnb and Short Term Rentals
Uncomfortable beds rank among the top five complaints in Airbnb guest reviews. Sleep quality can significantly impact their stay and your ratings and booking rates. For Airbnb and Short-Term Rental (STR) hosts, selecting the right mattress is a critical business investment.
Choosing the best mattress for your Airbnb property presents a unique challenge. You need a solution that satisfies diverse guest preferences, withstands frequent use, fits your budget, and contributes to positive reviews. This guide walks you through the essential considerations for selecting the ideal mattress for your rental property, provides recommendations for high-quality options on Amazon, and helps you understand how this decision fits into your overall STR success strategy.
Experts in STR design and furnishing focus on getting foundational elements right, especially sleep-critical items like mattresses, because they understand that in the competitive rental marketplace, these details matter.
Top Mattress Recommendations for Airbnb & STR Hosts Available on Amazon
Here are the top contenders for the best mattress for Airbnb hosts, available on Amazon, based on the discussed factors and types.
Zinus Green Tea Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress
Type: Memory Foam
Best For: Budget-conscious hosts seeking value with cooling features
Key Features for STRs:
Foam certified by CertiPUR-US for safety and quality
Green tea infusion helps to preserve freshness.
Cooling gel foam addresses heat retention issues.
Available in various thicknesses: 10", 12", 14"
Pressure-relieving comfort for various guests
Rental hosts report good durability at this price point, demonstrating a strong track record.
Price Tier: $
Amazon Link: Zinus Green Tea Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress
Linenspa 10-Inch Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress
Type: Hybrid
Best For: Universal appeal with balanced comfort and great value
Key Features for STRs:
Supportive springs and memory foam conform to your body.
Medium-firm feel accommodates most sleeper preferences
Heavy-gauge steel coils offer strong durability.
Strong edge support, beneficial for guests sitting on the bed edge
Compressed shipping makes delivery to your property easy.
One of the highly-reviewed mattresses on Amazon that has consistently positive feedback.
Price Tier: $
Amazon Link: Linenspa 10-Inch Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress
Tuft & Needle Original Adaptive Foam Mattress
Type: Proprietary Adaptive Foam
Best For: Higher-quality properties seeking an increase in comfort with reasonable pricing.
Key Features for STRs:
Proprietary Adaptive Foam offers improved pressure relief in comparison to standard memory foam.
Excellent temperature regulation; cooling gel and graphite prevent heat accumulation.
Medium-firm universal comfort appeal
Certified Greenguard Gold and CertiPUR-US
Recognizable and valued brand.
A simplified design withstands heavy use.
Price Tier: $$
Amazon Link: Tuft & Needle Original Adaptive Foam Mattress
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
Type: Gel Memory Foam
Best For: Properties seeking a luxury feel at moderate prices
Key Features for STRs:
Five foam layers create exceptional comfort.
Quilted cooling cover improves guest comfort in warm climates.
Excellent motion isolation for partners
Medium-firm with balanced contour (neither too soft nor too firm)
Gel memory foam efficiently dissipates heat.
Consistently high consumer survey scores
Price Tier: $$-$$$
Amazon Link: Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
Casper Sleep Element Mattress
Type: Memory Foam
Best For: Quality-focused hosts seeking brand recognition and streamlined design
Key Features for STRs:
Streamlined 3-layer design for durability and comfort
AirScape technology enhances breathability and cooling.
Perforated foam improves airflow for temperature regulation.
Premium responsive feel without the high price tag
A recognizable name that guests will appreciate
Solid edge support—uncommon for an all-foam mattress
Price Tier: $$
Amazon Link: Casper Sleep Element Mattress
Why Your Airbnb Mattress Choice is Important for Success
The mattress in your STR property isn't just furniture. It's a fundamental part of the guest experience and a key component of your business strategy that affects your rental's performance.
Impact on Guest Reviews and Bookings
Sleep quality directly influences guests' overall stay perception. Properties with comfortable, high-quality mattresses receive better reviews with mentions of restful sleep. These Airbnb recommendations aren't theoretical; data shows listings with positive mentions of comfortable beds can command higher nightly rates and better occupancy, sometimes by 15-20% compared to similar properties with average sleep accommodations.
Return on Investment (ROI)
A quality mattress requires an upfront investment, but the returns are substantial. A durable, well-received mattress can reduce negative reviews, increase bookings, and command higher prices. Investing wisely in furnishings, including the right mattress, contributes to profitability. Showplace clients report a 22% revenue increase after optimizing their property's design and furnishings.
Durability Demands in STRs
Unlike residential mattresses, STR mattresses endure much more intensive use. Each week or day, different body types, sleeping styles, and weights pass through your property. A durable mattress for guests must withstand this variety of use without premature sagging or deterioration. STR may also face occasional misuse from jumping children to guests sitting on bed edges while getting ready, creating wear patterns that home mattresses seldom encounter.
Hygiene and Maintenance Considerations
In the post-pandemic era, cleanliness standards are higher than ever. Your mattress should facilitate easy cleaning and maintenance between guests, including considerations like removable covers, compatibility with mattress protectors, stain resistance, and materials that resist dust mites and allergens.
Key Factors for Choosing the Best Mattress for Your Airbnb
Understanding the key criteria for short-term rental mattresses will help you navigate the numerous options and select a mattress that performs well in a rental context.
Durability and Longevity
Your primary consideration for STR mattresses should be durability. Commercial-grade quality is ideal, though often at a higher price. Look for these key indicators of a durable mattress:
High-density foam bases weighing 5.0+ lbs per cubic foot resist compression and provide lasting support over time.
Strong edge support prevents sagging where guests sit when getting in and out of bed.
Reinforced coil systems in hybrid or innerspring models; individually wrapped coils perform better than connected ones.
Quality materials such as natural latex or high-grade memory foam that resist deterioration.
Warranties offering 8-10+ years coverage (note that many manufacturers void them for commercial use; this is important for STR hosts)
Guest Comfort (The Universal Appeal)
The challenge with STR mattresses is accommodating various sleep preferences. Aim for a balance that satisfies most sleepers:
A medium-firm mattress rated between 5 and 7 on the 1-10 scale works best for STRs. It offers support for back and stomach sleepers while not being too firm for side sleepers. Look for good motion isolation features to prevent disturbances for couples. Pressure relief is important, particularly in the shoulders and hips.
Price and Value
Finding an affordable mattress for rental property use doesn't mean choosing the cheapest option. Evaluate value based on expected lifespan, comfort, and price. A $1,000 mattress lasting 6-7 years in commercial use offers better value than a $400 mattress needing replacement after 2 years.
For most STRs, the ideal range is the mid-range market, specifically from $500 to $900 for queen size. In this range, you can find good durability without paying unnecessary premium prices for rental properties.
Hygiene and Maintenance
Hygiene considerations are essential for rentals. Prioritize mattresses that have:
Materials that resist moisture, dust mites and allergens
Removable and washable covers (though these are becoming less frequent)
Compatibility with high-quality mattress protectors is important for STRs.
Even the most hygienic mattress needs a waterproof protector for sexual use.
Size and Thickness
Standard sizes work best for STRs to ensure easy sheet replacement and familiarity:
For master and standard bedrooms, queen size.
Full/Double for small rooms or limited
King where space and luxury properties
Twin or Twin XL for children's rooms or shared accommodations
The ideal thickness is 10 to 12 inches. Mattresses under 10 inches look thin and less substantial to guests, while those over 14 inches need special deep-pocket sheets and appear bulky.
Common Mattress Types for STRs: Advantages and Disadvantages
Understanding basic mattress types and their performance in STR settings will help you make an informed choice based on your property and guest profile.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses use viscoelastic foam that contours to the body, creating a pressure relieving and supportive sleep surface.
Pros:
Excellent motion isolation; suitable for couples sharing a bed
Good pressure relief for side sleepers.
No noise unlike some spring mattresses
Often hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites.
Good value for money in the mid range market
Lightweight and easier to move during cleaning
Cons:
Traditional memory foam can retain heat. Look for gel-infused or open-cell designs.
May feel too "huggy" for guests who prefer sleeping "on" rather than "in" it
Edge support is often weaker, particularly in budget models.
Can develop body impressions over time with frequent use
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses combine a coil support system with foam comfort layers, offering a balanced approach.
Pros:
A balanced feel that appeals to various sleep preferences.
Better edge support compared to foam models
Coil layer promotes airflow and enhances a cooler sleep experience.
Better durability than all foam mattresses in commercial settings
Most guests will experience familiar comfort levels that have been improved.
Cons:
More expensive than all foam or traditional innerspring options
Heavier and more difficult to move for room turnovers
May transfer some motion, less than traditional innersprings.
Mid-range hybrids may weaken with intensive commercial use.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses feature a traditional coil support system, often including a pillow top or thin comfort layer.
Pros:
The most affordable option
Familiar atmosphere for guests
Excellent airflow and cooling properties
Higher quality models
Easier to navigate, which is important for older guests.
Cons:
Transfer more motion compared to foam or hybrid options.
May create pressure points for side sleepers.
Often less durable in commercial settings, with potential for sagging.
Can become noisy over time as springs degrade.
Less accommodating to various body types
The memory foam versus hybrid for Airbnb hinges on your property, budget, and target guests. Hybrid mattresses offer broad appeal, while quality memory foam provides value for tighter budgets.
Simplify Your Furnishing: How Showplace Can Assist
Choosing the right mattress is one aspect of the process. Furnishing an entire Airbnb or STR property efficiently and stylishly can be overwhelming. A professional service like Showplace provides immense value for hosts.
Comprehensive Furnishing Service
Showplace eliminates the research, procurement, and setup challenges by managing the entire furnishing process from start to finish. Their approach includes expert design consultation, furniture sourcing (including selecting ideal mattresses based on your property type and budget), delivery coordination, professional setup, and staging. With nationwide reach, Showplace can transform your rental property regardless of location, saving you time on research and coordination while ensuring professional-quality results.
Tailored Design Solutions
Flexibility is central to Showplace's approach. Hosts can choose from expertly curated pre-designed packages for cohesive, tested designs, or opt for fully customized ones tailored to your property's characteristics, location, and target guest profile. Mattress selection is integrated into the design strategy, ensuring it complements the aesthetic while delivering the durability and comfort your guests demand.
Proven ROI and Expertise
Showplace isn't just about creating beautiful spaces. It's about optimizing your property for rental success. Their approach has generated a 22% average revenue increase for clients after implementing professional design and furnishing solutions. This expertise extends to selecting the perfect guest bed mattresses that balance comfort, durability, and value. This is supported by extensive experience across hundreds of successful STR properties nationwide.
Learn how Showplace can transform your STR property into a high-performing, guest-pleasing space with professional expertise guiding each decision.
Don't Forget Essential Mattress Accessories
The mattress is key, but these accessories are essential for protection and enhancing guest comfort.
Quality Mattress Protectors
A waterproof mattress protector is essential for every STR bed. Invest in premium protectors that are:
100% waterproof (to protect against spills, accidents, and bodily fluids)
Breathable (to prevent heat accumulation)
Quiet (no plastic sound when guests move)
Deep-pocketed to accommodate your mattress height.
Encasing the entire mattress for maximum protection
Keep one spare protector per bed for immediate replacement during turnovers. A quality one preserves your mattress investment and protects against allergens and bed bugs.
Mattress Toppers (Optional but Suggested)
Consider adding mattress toppers to your beds for:
Customizing firmness levels (softening a mattress that is too firm)
Adding an upscale feel to a mid-range mattress
Creating an extra protective layer
Extending mattress life by evenly distributing wear
A 2-3 inch memory foam or down alternative topper enhances comfort and allows easier replacement when worn instead of changing the entire mattress.
Comfortable Pillows
Pillows are essential to sleep quality and often overlooked. Provide a variety of options:
Medium-firm pillows (most versatile)
A gentler option for side sleepers.
Extra pillows in the closet for guests who prefer to sleep elevated.
Quality, hypoallergenic pillows with washable covers ensure freshness between guests and enhance the superior sleep experience your rental promises.
Conclusion
Choosing the best mattress for your Airbnb is a strategic business decision that balances durability, comfort, and cost. It significantly impacts guest satisfaction, reviews, and ultimately, your rental's profitability.
By prioritizing key factors such as durability, universal comfort appeal, hygiene, and value, you can select mattresses that withstand the rigors of short-term rentals while providing a restful experience for your guests. Investing in quality mattresses, supplemented by essential accessories like protectors and toppers, demonstrates your commitment to guest comfort and contributes to a successful and thriving rental business.
Whether you choose to navigate the options on Amazon or partner with a professional furnishing service like Showplace, making informed decisions about your mattresses is crucial for achieving optimal returns and fostering a positive reputation in the competitive STR market.