As a general rule, your bed should only rock when you intend it to.
Sharing a bed shouldn’t mean sharing every movement.
If you wake up every time your partner rolls over, gets out of bed, or even just breathes too heavily, you may be tempted to kick them out. But the chances are, it’s actually your bed setup that’s the issue.
Motion isolation keeps movement where it belongs and helps couples sleep better together.
Here’s what it is, why it matters, and how the right base and mattress can make all the difference.
What Is Motion Isolation?
Motion isolation refers to how well a bed absorbs movement rather than transferring it across the surface. In simple terms:
✅ Good motion isolation means you don’t feel your partner move.
❌ Poor motion isolation means every shift, turn, or step is noticeable.
For couples, light sleepers, or anyone with different schedules, motion isolation can be the difference between broken sleep and genuinely restorative rest.
How Mattresses Affect Motion Isolation
Not all beds handle movement the same way. The materials, structure, and support system all play a role. There are many different types of mattresses available, which are explained and compared in our Mattress Guide 2026. Here’s a quick look at the key motion-isolation differences.
Mattress type
Usually the gold standard for motion isolation. They absorb movement and help stop it travelling across the surface. Some people find foam feels warmer or a bit more “hugging”.
Great for reducing movement transfer because each spring moves independently. This keeps motion more “zoned” to where it happens.
Tend to transfer more motion, as movement spreads through connected springs.
Mattress firmness
- Medium-soft can feel more “bouncy” and may transfer more motion.
- Medium and medium-firm are a solid balance of comfort and motion control.
- Firm and extra-firm often provide the most motion control and can suit many back sleepers.
Not sure which mattress to choose?
A hybrid-style mattress can be a great modern option. For example, the 2000 Pocket Sprung iGel Memory Foam Mattress combines pocket springs with foam layers and iGel for better heat control and motion isolation.
Why Divan Beds Are Better for Motion Isolation
Many people focus only on the mattress, but the bed base is just as important. A stable base reduces vibration and helps your mattress perform as it should.
A solid divan base provides a supportive, even platform that can reduce movement. Compared with many slatted frames, divan bases often feel more stable and less prone to amplifying motion or creaks during the night.
Divan base benefits include
- More even support across the mattress
- Reduced vibration and motion transfer
- A sturdier feel with fewer creaks and flexing
- Optional storage without sacrificing stability
At Divan Base Direct, our divan bases are built to provide consistent foundations that help your mattress do its job properly, especially when it comes to motion isolation.
Other Factors That Improve Motion Isolation
Even with the right bed and mattress, a few extra choices can make a noticeable difference.
Try these practical improvements
- Go bigger if you can: more space reduces how much you notice each other moving
- Add a quality topper: extra cushioning can help dampen movement
- Check assembly and fit: loose fittings can introduce extra movement
Motion Isolation and Better Sleep, Together
Sharing a bed shouldn’t mean compromising on sleep. Good motion isolation helps:
- Reduce nighttime disturbances
- Support deeper, more uninterrupted sleep
- Improve mood, energy, and focus
- Make shared sleep more comfortable long-term
If you’re waking up tired despite getting enough hours, movement might be part of the reason.
Read next: How to Sleep Better, Together
Read the guideMotion-Reducing Beds at Divan Base Direct
At Divan Base Direct, we design our divan beds to work with your mattress, not against it. With stable bases, supportive construction, and compatibility with motion-isolating mattresses, our beds are built to help couples sleep better, together.
If your evenings feel harder than they should, your bed might be part of the reason.
Explore divan bases and ottoman storage beds
Shop divan basesFAQs: Motion Isolation in the Bedroom
What does “motion isolation” mean?
Motion isolation is how well a mattress and bed base absorb movement. A setup with good motion isolation reduces how much you feel a partner turning, shifting, or getting in and out of bed.
What type of mattress has the best motion isolation?
Memory foam mattresses are typically strong at absorbing movement. Pocket sprung mattresses can also perform well because each spring reacts independently. Open coil mattresses generally transfer more motion.
Does a divan base improve motion isolation?
It often can. A solid divan base provides consistent, even support under the mattress, which can reduce vibration and movement compared to some slatted frames that flex or amplify motion.
Why do I wake up when my partner moves?
If your mattress or base transfers motion, it can disturb your sleep even if you don’t fully wake. Over time, repeated disturbances can leave you feeling less rested. Improving the base and mattress setup can make a noticeable difference.
Is a firmer or softer mattress better for motion isolation?
It depends on the materials. Many foam mattresses isolate movement well regardless of firmness. For springs, pocket springs tend to isolate better than connected coils. The best choice is a mattress that supports your body properly while also reducing movement transfer.
Do mattress toppers help with motion isolation?
A high-quality topper can add an extra layer that dampens movement, especially if your current mattress feels a bit more “bouncy”. It won’t fix every issue, but it can reduce smaller disturbances.
What bed size is best for couples who wake each other up?
If space allows, moving up a size can help. More room creates more distance between sleepers, which can reduce how much movement you notice. Many couples find a king size offers a big comfort upgrade.
Can bed frames make motion transfer worse?
Yes. Some slatted frames can flex and amplify movement, especially if slats are widely spaced or the frame isn’t as rigid. A stable base reduces unnecessary movement and supports better mattress performance.
How can I improve motion isolation without buying a new bed?
You can try tightening fixings, checking the base is stable on the floor, adding a topper, and making sure your mattress is compatible with your base. If the mattress is very old or sagging, replacement may be the most effective fix.
