When shopping for a new mattress, one important factor to consider is the firmness level.
The firmness of a mattress can have a significant impact on your comfort and sleep quality, so it’s important to choose the right level for your needs.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to determine the firmness of the mattress that is best for you and offer tips for making the right choice.
Factors that influence firmness preference
There are several factors that can influence your preference for the firmness of a mattress.
- Weight and body type: Heavier individuals may prefer a firmer mattress to provide enough support for their body weight. On the other hand, lighter individuals may find a softer mattress more comfortable.
- Sleep position: Your sleep position can also affect your firmness preference. Side sleepers may prefer a softer mattress to cushion their hips and shoulders, while stomach sleepers may need a firmer mattress to keep their spine aligned. Back sleepers may be comfortable on a medium-firm mattress.
- Health concerns: If you have chronic pain or conditions such as arthritis, a firmer mattress may provide the support you need to reduce pain and improve sleep quality. However, be sure to consult with a medical professional before making a decision.
It’s worth noting that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to the firmness of a mattress. Everyone has their own unique needs and preferences. It’s important to take the time to try out different firmness levels and pay attention to how your body feels when lying on the mattress.
If you want to explore and learn the top benefits of a firm mattress, we have a detailed article for that. Top Benefits of a Firm Mattress – Is it really good for health?
How to test the firmness in a store?
When shopping for a new mattress, it’s important to take the time to test out different firmness levels in the store. Here are some tips for how to do this:
- Lie down on the mattress in your typical sleep position. This will give you a good idea of how the mattress will feel when you’re in your most common position.
- Pay attention to pressure points. Do you feel any areas of your body sinking too deeply into the mattress or pressing too hard against it? These pressure points can lead to discomfort and disrupt your sleep.
- Consider the overall comfort layers of the mattress. Is it supportive enough to keep your spine aligned? Does it feel too hard or too soft? Also, remember to notice how your shoulders and hips align with the mattress you are testing out.
- Try out a few different firmness levels. Don’t be afraid to spend a few minutes lying on each one to get a good feel for how they compare.
Remember, the firmness scale of a mattress is a highly personal preference. What feels comfortable for one person may not be the best choice for another. It’s important to take the time to find the right fit for you.
Tips for choosing the right firmness
When it comes to choosing the right firmness for your mattress, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Consider purchasing a mattress with adjustable firmness levels. These types of mattresses allow you to customize the firmness to your preferences, giving you the best of both worlds.
- Consider purchasing a mattress with a trial period. Many companies offer a money-back trial period during which you can test out the mattress in your own home. If you don’t love it, you can return it for a full refund.
- Consider purchasing a mattress with a warranty. A good warranty will protect you from any defects in the materials or craftsmanship of the mattress, giving you peace of mind and protection for your investment.
It’s important to consider the warranty and return policy when purchasing a new mattress. A good warranty will protect you from defects in the materials or craftsmanship of the mattress, and a trial period can allow you to test out the mattress in your own home to ensure it’s the right fit for you.”
Dr. Michael Breus, Board-Certified Sleep Specialist and author of “The Sleep Doctor’s Diet Plan
By considering these factors, you can increase your chances of finding the perfect firmness for your needs and ensure that you’re happy with buying a mattress.
If you already bought your mattress and found that it’s not soft, you can check out our article on how to make it soften. Is the New mattress too firm? Learn How to Soften it
Recommended Mattress According to Firmness Level
Soft:
- Casper Wave Hybrid
- Leesa Hybrid
- Purple Hybrid Premier
Medium:
- Saatva
- Beautyrest Hybrid
- Nectar
Firm:
- Helix Midnight
- GhostBed
- Tuft & Needle Original
Note: These are just a few examples and may not necessarily be the best fit for everyone. It’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences when choosing a best mattress.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions about firmness and mattresses:
- Can a too-firm bed cause back pain? A mattress that is too firm may not provide enough pressure relief for your body, leading to discomfort and potentially contributing to back pain.
- Can a too-soft mattress cause back pain? On the other hand, a mattress that is too soft may not provide enough support for your spine, leading to misalignment and potentially contributing to back pain.
- Is it better to err on the side of a firmer or softer mattress? This ultimately depends on your individual preferences and needs. Some people may find a firmer mattress more comfortable, while others may prefer a softer one. It’s important to find a mattress by trying out a few different firmness levels to see what feels best for you.
- Can a mattress become less firm over time? Yes, mattresses can become less firm over time as the materials break down and lose their support. This is one reason why it’s important to invest in a high-quality mattress with a good warranty.
- Is it normal to feel pressure points on a new mattress? It’s not uncommon to feel some pressure points on a new mattress, especially if you’re not used to the firmness level. However, if the pressure points are severe or persist after a few weeks of use, it may be a sign that the mattress is not a good fit for you.
When it comes to choosing a new mattress, firmness is an important factor to consider. Your weight, body type, sleep position, and health concerns can all impact your firmness preference.
Be sure to test out different options and look for a mattress with adjustable firmness and support, a trial period, or a good warranty. By finding the right fit, you can improve your sleep quality and wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.