How much weight can mattresses carry? Just like humans, mattresses come in all shapes and sizes. And each one is designed to hold and support different weights.
If you’re a larger person, or even a couple, trying to find a bed that is supportive and comfortable, it can feel intimidating to find a mattress that will cushion you appropriately without wearing down the mattress. That’s why the weight and weight limit of a mattress should be considered in finer detail.
The good news is, there are plenty of excellent mattresses and box springs to choose from right at your fingertips. But you just have to know what you’re looking for. There’s no shame in getting a mattress that supports a heavier weight. After all, we need our mattresses to support our bodies properly if we have any chance of getting decent sleep. And heavier sleepers need extra support and cushioning in the areas where weight might be more concentrated.
*Disclaimer: the terms “heavy” or “larger” are being used generally. Of course, you can weigh 200 pounds and be perfectly fit and healthy. For the purposes of this article, we’re referring to “heavier”, “heavy” or “larger” as anybody over 200 pounds.
The weight limit of a typical mattress
Not all companies may advertise it, but in general, standard mattresses will support people weighing around 230 to 250 pounds. In this case, we’re talking somewhere along the lines of a conventional double, latex foam mattress. If you were to get a queen or king, that can be up to 250 pounds per each side, or 500 pounds for the entire bed.
Beyond that, there will also be mattresses that depending on their materials, build and make, can either support a heavier sleeper or not. Keep in mind that this will also vary from model to model.
What should a heavier person look for when considering a mattress?
Do different mattress types have weight limits?
Well…sort of. But not to the degree that they are standard across the board. At the end of the day, you have to weigh the pros and cons for any of the main mattress types. Yet each mattress type has unique qualities and characteristics that might make it more suited to heavier people.
Final thoughts
Overall, some mattresses—more than others—will be able to withstand heavier body weights. All mattresses will differ in their own unique weight limit so it’s important to understand the weight limits of a mattress or whether it’s made for heavier people before committing. Additionally, many bed frames, foundations and box springs will also have a weight limit.
Ultimately, if you weigh more than 230 pounds, you should seek out a mattress that contains a thick comfort layer and sturdy foundation, in this case innerspring or hybrid mattress types.