The secret to choosing the right mattress is balancing motion control with support. A bad waterbed feels like sleeping on a stormy ocean, while a quality one mimics the stillness of a pond.
You need to understand how much wave action you actually prefer before you commit. Picking the right one of the Best Softside Waterbed Mattresses changes everything about your sleep quality. Let's look at the specs that matter.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize the motion reduction rating because higher percentages mean less movement transfer between partners.
- Check if the package includes a complete fill and drain kit, as these tools are essential for setup.
- Verify the depth of the bladder to ensure it matches your existing frame dimensions perfectly.
- Choose a pillow top cover if you prefer a traditional mattress feel rather than the direct contact of vinyl.
- Confirm the heater is included or compatible with your model to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the night.
| Ultimate Fluid Support |  |
Evolution Fluid Support King Mattress | Consistent fluid support | Durable construction | Minimalist design | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Motionless Sleep Solution |  |
King Softside Pillow Top Set | Includes heater and liner | High motion reduction | Plush pillow top surface | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Customizable Dual Comfort |  |
Boyd Eastern King Dual Mattress | Independent side adjustment | Effective wave reduction | Dual bladder design | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Compact Depth Specialist |  |
Boyd Queen Waveless Softside Mattress | Fits six inch depth | Includes fill kit | Waveless technology | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Premium Deep Support |  |
King Deep Fill Pillow Top | Near total motion reduction | Complete assembly kit | Deep fill capacity | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Traditional Fluid Motion |  |
Free Flow Full Wave Mattress | Classic water movement | Includes thermostat | Ergonomic contouring | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Portable Comfort Option |  |
Free Flow Square Softside Mattress | Removable cover | Foldable and portable | Dual air valves | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Smart Temperature Control | |
Semi Waveless Queen Mattress | Balanced motion control | Smart thermostat included | Soft cover included | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Complete Heavy Duty Setup |  |
Full Wave Portable Mattress | Heavy duty PVC | Includes air pump | Ergonomic design | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Luxury Organic Choice |  |
Aqua Fusion Organic Pillowtop | Organic pillow top | High end comfort | Free flow movement | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
-
Evolution Fluid Support King Mattress
This model is built for people who want the classic waterbed sensation without the bulk of a traditional frame. It excels at providing consistent fluid support across the entire surface.
The design focuses on structural integrity, making it a solid choice for those who value longevity and performance. Just keep in mind that this is a mattress-only purchase, so you will need to source your own heater and foundation separately.
- Mattress Size:King
- Top Construction:Fluid support bladder
- Additional Feature:High quality vinyl material
- Additional Feature:Designed for softside frames
- Additional Feature:Consistent weight distribution
-
King Softside Pillow Top Set
If you want the benefits of water without the constant movement, this set is a strong contender. It features a 95 percent waveless design, which drastically reduces the ripple effect when you shift positions.
The inclusion of a plush pillow top adds a necessary layer of comfort that bridges the gap between a standard mattress and a water bladder. It comes as a complete kit, making it an excellent choice for someone who wants everything delivered in one package.
- Brand Name:Generic
- Mattress Size:King
- Motion Rating:95 percent waveless
- Top Construction:Pillow top
- Included Accessories:Heater, liner, rails, fill kit
- Heating Capability:Included
- Additional Feature:High stability bladder
- Additional Feature:Complete setup kit
- Additional Feature:Softside rail system
-
Boyd Eastern King Dual Mattress
Sharing a bed often leads to compromises, but this dual bladder system solves that problem. Each partner can adjust the firmness independently, which is a major win for couples with different preferences.
The waveless technology ensures that your partner's movements do not disrupt your sleep. Because it uses two separate bladders, it is also easier to manage if you ever need to drain or move the bed.
- Brand Name:Boyd
- Mattress Size:Eastern King
- Motion Rating:Waveless
- Additional Feature:Split internal bladders
- Additional Feature:Enhanced motion isolation
- Additional Feature:Designed for softside frames
-
Boyd Queen Waveless Softside Mattress
This model is perfect for those working with limited space or a specific six inch frame. The waveless design provides a stable surface that feels much more like a traditional mattress while still offering the therapeutic benefits of water.
The kit includes a fill and drain system, which makes maintenance straightforward. It is a no nonsense choice for anyone wanting a reliable, space efficient waterbed setup.
- Brand Name:Boyd
- Mattress Size:Queen
- Motion Rating:Waveless
- Included Accessories:Fill and drain kit
- Additional Feature:Designed for shallow frames
- Additional Feature:Simplified maintenance
- Additional Feature:Compact profile
-
King Deep Fill Pillow Top
This mattress is for the sleeper who wants the maximum water experience combined with modern comfort. The 99 percent waveless interior ensures you stay perfectly still, while the deep fill depth provides a truly immersive feel.
Being made in the USA is a nice touch for those who care about manufacturing standards. Since it arrives with rails, a liner, and a heater, you get a turnkey solution that is ready for assembly right out of the box.
- Brand Name:Generic
- Mattress Size:King
- Motion Rating:99 percent waveless
- Top Construction:Pillow top
- Included Accessories:Rails, bladder, liner, fill kit
- Heating Capability:Included
- Additional Feature:American manufacturing
- Additional Feature:Deep water profile
- Additional Feature:Complete system included
-
Free Flow Full Wave Mattress
If you actually enjoy the gentle movement of a traditional waterbed, this full wave mattress is exactly what you are looking for. It provides the classic, fluid sensation that many enthusiasts still prefer today.
The ergonomic design is intended to contour to your body perfectly. It also includes a thermostat, which is essential for keeping the water at a comfortable temperature during colder months.
- Brand Name:Free Flow
- Mattress Size:Queen
- Motion Rating:Full wave
- Included Accessories:Thermostat
- Heating Capability:Included
- Additional Feature:Double exhaust hole
- Additional Feature:Softside compatible
- Additional Feature:Temperature control
-
Free Flow Square Softside Mattress
This model is impressively versatile due to its foldable design. It is a great pick if you need a bed that is easy to move or store when not in use.
The removable cover makes cleaning much easier than with fixed-top models. While the 7.9 inch thickness is substantial, it remains light enough to handle without too much struggle.
- Brand Name:Free Flow
- Mattress Size:Queen
- Motion Rating:Full wave
- Top Construction:Removable cover
- Additional Feature:Dual air valves
- Additional Feature:Easy to transport
- Additional Feature:Softside design
-
Semi Waveless Queen Mattress
This mattress hits the middle ground between wave and stability. The semi waveless interior is ideal for those who want a bit of feedback from the water without bouncing around all night.
It includes a smart thermostat, which is a helpful upgrade for maintaining precise heat levels. The fact that it comes with a fill and drain kit means you have everything necessary to get started immediately.
- Brand Name:Generic
- Mattress Size:Queen
- Motion Rating:Semi waveless
- Included Accessories:Fill and drain kit
- Heating Capability:Included
- Additional Feature:Foldable design
- Additional Feature:Temperature monitoring
- Additional Feature:Softside construction
-
Full Wave Portable Mattress
For a heavy duty option that does not sacrifice portability, look here. This thick PVC mattress is built to last and handles the pressure of a full water load with ease.
It comes with an electric air pump, which is a significant convenience when setting up the rails. This is a solid pick for someone who wants a durable, classic waterbed experience with all the necessary tools provided.
- Brand Name:Generic
- Mattress Size:Queen
- Motion Rating:Full wave
- Included Accessories:Hose, air pump
- Additional Feature:Portable and foldable
- Additional Feature:High durability material
- Additional Feature:Quick setup
-
Aqua Fusion Organic Pillowtop
If you prioritize natural materials, this mattress is a breath of fresh air. The organic pillow top provides a soft, breathable surface that feels high end compared to standard vinyl covers.
It combines a free flow mattress with top tier comfort layers. This is a smart choice for someone who wants the therapeutic benefits of water but prefers the aesthetic and feel of a luxury conventional bed.
- Brand Name:Glideaway / Aqua Fusion
- Mattress Size:Queen
- Motion Rating:Free flow
- Top Construction:Organic pillow top
- Additional Feature:Breathable materials
- Additional Feature:Luxury feel
- Additional Feature:Softside compatible
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I need to add water conditioner to the mattress?
You should add a bottle of water conditioner once every six to twelve months. This prevents the growth of bacteria and algae inside the bladder. It also keeps the vinyl pliable and soft, which helps stop the material from becoming brittle and cracking.
Will a softside waterbed feel exactly like a traditional hardside one?
It feels remarkably similar, but the foam rails provide a more familiar edge feel. Because the mattress is encased in fabric and foam, it lacks the signature wooden frame of old-school models. You get the pressure relief of water without the industrial look.
Can I use an adjustable base with these mattresses?
Most softside waterbeds are not compatible with adjustable bases. The weight of the water combined with the rigid foam rails prevents the mattress from bending. If you want articulation, stick to a traditional air-based or memory foam mattress instead.
How much does a full softside waterbed weigh?
A queen-size waterbed can hold over 150 gallons of water, which translates to more than 1,200 pounds. You must ensure your floor joists can handle this concentrated weight before setting one up. Always verify your home's structural capacity if you live in an older building.
Is it difficult to drain a softside waterbed?
Draining takes some patience, but it is straightforward if you use an electric water pump. You can rent or buy these at most hardware stores to pull the water out through a garden hose. Expect the process to take one to two hours depending on the flow rate of your pump.
