Choosing the right firmness is key when picking your dream mattress. This guide will help you find the perfect firmness for your needs. Whether you are a side sleeper, back sleeper, or stomach sleeper, this blog has the right advice for you.
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What Is Mattress Firmness?
Mattress firmness is how soft or firm the bed feels when you lie on it. Many people confuse firmness with support, but they are different. Firmness refers to how the mattress feels when you first lie down. Support is how well the mattress helps keep your spine aligned while you sleep.
When choosing the right firmness for your mattress, remember that firmness is what you feel right away. Support helps prevent back pain and other problems while you sleep.
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Understanding the Mattress Firmness Scale
Mattresses use a firmness scale from 1 to 10. Here is a quick breakdown:
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- Soft (1-3): Mattresses with a soft feel are always comfortable and have a slight sink. These types are usually the best for side sleepers, as they can help cushion your shoulders and hips.
- 4-6 (Medium)-These mattresses offer a balance between soft and firm. They are great for people who sleep in different positions or couples with different preferences.
- 7-9 (Firm):Firm mattresses are very hard. They are ideal for back and stomach sleepers, keeping the spine level.
- Extra Firm – 10 (Rare): This is a rare option. It’s usually found in spring mattresses, which are stiff and very firm.
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What Makes a Soft vs. Medium vs. Firm
Choosing the right mattress firmness depends on your sleep style and body type. Here’s a breakdown of each option:
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Soft Mattresses
Side sleepers should choose soft mattresses. They let your lower body sink a bit and cushion your shoulders and hips. However, soft mattresses might not give enough support if you’re heavier.
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Medium-Firm Mattresses
These are a good balance between soft and firm. They work well for most people and couples with different sleep needs. Medium-firm mattresses are also great for back sleepers and people who move around at night.
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Firm Mattresses
Firm mattresses are ideal for back and stomach sleepers. They provide strong support and help keep your spine aligned. They are also better for heavier people since they don’t sink much.
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Pick the Right Firmness for Your New Mattress
Best Soft Mattresses
Puffy Lux Mattress
Best Medium FirmÂ
Best Firm Mattresses
Helix Dusk Luxe
 Foster Estate Mattress
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Choosing the Perfect Firmness According to Your Sleep Position
Your sleep position is important when choosing mattress firmness. Here’s what works best for each type:
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Back Sleepers
Back sleepers should look for a medium-firm to firm mattress (6-8 on the firmness scale). A firmer surface keeps your spine straight and prevents your hips from sinking too much, which can cause back pain.
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Side Sleepers
Side sleepers need a softer mattress (3-6 on the scale). A soft mattress cradles your shoulders and hips, helping to reduce pressure while fitting the shape of your body.
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Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleepers need a firm mattress (7-9 on the scale). It stops your hips from sinking too low and helps keep your spine aligned, avoiding back pain.
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Combination Sleepers
Combination sleepers need a medium-firm mattress (4-7). It gives enough support for back and stomach sleeping, while still being soft enough for side sleeping.
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The Mattress Firmness and Your Body Weight
Your body weight affects how much pressure you put on a mattress. Heavier people may need firmer mattresses to stay comfortable.
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- Lightweight Sleepers (130 lbs or Less): If you weigh less, a softer mattress (1-4) will work best. It gives enough padding without feeling too stiff.
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- 130 to 230 pounds: A medium-firm mattress (5-7) is a good choice. It offers the right balance of comfort and support.
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- For Sleepers Over 230 Pounds (Heavyweight): Heavier people need a firmer mattress (7-9) for proper support.
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Mattress Firmness for Couples
Couples may have different preferences. A medium-firm mattress is a good compromise. Alternatively, look for mattresses with split firmness, so each person gets the support they need.
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Different Types Mattresses and their Effect On Firmness
The type of mattress also affects its firmness. Here’s how different types feel:
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Memory Foam
Memory foam is soft and molds to your body. It’s great for side sleepers and pressure relief but may be too soft for heavier people or stomach sleepers.
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Latex
Latex mattresses  are bouncier and firmer than memory foam. They provide good support for back and stomach sleepers who prefer a medium-firm mattress (8).
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Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses feel firmer and bouncy. They’re great for back and stomach sleepers. For extra comfort, choose an innerspring mattress with foam layers.
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Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses combine innerspring coils with foam or latex. They offer the support of coils and the softness of foam, making them a good choice for many people.
Best Memory Foam
Casper Original Foam Mattress
Best Latex
Best Innerspring
Avocado Green Mattress
Saatva Classic Mattress
FAQs About Mattress Firmness
The ideal firmness differs for every sleeper based on position, body weight, and personal comfort. Mattresses designed for side sleepers typically are softer than other types, and back and stomach sleepers need firmer support. Also significant is your body weight: heavier bodies need firmer support, so this can often be the way to go.
Side sleepers: Side sleeping puts extra pressure on the shoulders and hips, so these sleepers should look for a soft mattress (a level 3-6) to give more cushion. A softer mattress uses better pressure relief and offers your bones the benefits of vanilla mattresses being comfortable for the body.
If you sleep on your back or stomach, a firmer mattress might be better for your back. These mattresses suit the spine and your quest to avoid back pain. However, a mattress that is too firm may cause discomfort. The basic idea is to get support where you need it (your lower back and your head) while staying comfortable.
The 5-7 range on the firmness scale for a medium-firm mattress is alright for both of you, but if you prefer a soft aerated bed and the other wants to sleep on concrete, it will be tough. Better yet, choose a split-firmness mattress to allow each sleep style to be at their preferred comfort level.
To test a mattress for firmness, lie down on the mattress in your normal sleep position for at least 15 minutes. Notice if there is any area in your body that feels uncomfortable or not supported. When ordering online, read the reviews and shop brands that offer sleep trials or hassle-free returns.
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Closing Thoughts On Choosing A New Mattress Firmness
The right mattress firmness is all about finding a balance between comfort and support. Think about your sleep style, weight, and what feels best for you. A mattress that’s too soft or too firm can make you uncomfortable and cause pain when you wake up.
If you’re shopping for a new mattress, take your time. Lie on a few different mattresses to see which one feels right. Do some research, and if you’re buying online, check if the manufacturer offers a sleep trial. Finding the right firmness will help you get better sleep.
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Read More:
Hybrid vs Memory Foam Mattresses: Which Is Best for You?
5 Benefits of Chiropractor-Approved Mattresses
How Euro-Top Mattresses Enhance Sleep Quality
The Ultimate Guide to Cooling Mattresses for Hot Sleepers
How to Prolong the Life of Your Mattress: Expert Tips
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