Updated : 02 Dec 2024
Published : 21 Oct 2024
Guides

When it comes to choosing the perfect mattress, firmness is one of the first things we think about. After all, whether you like a soft, cushioned feel or a more supportive, firm surface, how your mattress feels can make a huge difference to your overall comfort and sleep quality.

In this guide, we’re going to walk you through everything you need to know about mattress firmness—from understanding the different levels available to finding the one that’s just right for your body and sleep style. We’ll break down how factors like your sleeping position, body weight, and even health conditions play a big role in determining what firmness is best for you.

We’ll also explore some of the common myths around firmness, such as the idea that firmer mattresses are always better for your back, and share expert advice on how to test out mattresses in-store or when shopping online. Plus, if you’re not ready for a full upgrade, we’ll talk about how a mattress topper can help you adjust firmness without buying a whole new bed.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to confidently choose the ideal mattress firmness for your needs, ensuring you get the best sleep possible.

What Does Mattress Firmness Mean?

Mattress firmness is the immediate feel of the mattress when you first lie on it. This feeling has a strong bearing on whether a mattress will feel comfortable for you or not. Firmness means, basically, how much resistance the surface of the mattress opposes your body weight, actually affecting how far you are going to sink into the material of the mattress.

Softer mattresses would allow a more profound sinking-in and have a softer, cradling effect. Conversely, a firmer mattress would offer a more solid supportive surface; instead of sinking in, it supports you up. Although this sounds straightforward, firmness is a subjective experience, whereby it may feel firm to one individual and soft to another, depending on individual preferences and body type.

Most mattress manufacturers will use a firmness scale ranging from one to ten, with one being the softest. While there is no standard across the board for this scale, the general agreement is that a mattress that rates between one and three will feel soft, plush, and allow your body to sink deep into it.

On the contrary, a mattress with a rating of nine to ten is extremely firm and offers a much harder surface. Quite typically, however, users tend toward a mattress that rests somewhere in between, generally between five and seven, which gives a balanced combination of softness and support suitable for a wide range of sleeping styles.

What is the Difference Between Mattress Firmness and Support?

It is very easy to confuse mattress firmness with support, but the two are quite different concepts. Firmness refers specifically to the immediate feel of the mattress and how soft or hard it is when you lie down, whereas support relates to how well the mattress keeps your body aligned, particularly your spine. While a mattress may feel firm, it doesn’t automatically mean that it is providing the right level of support for your body. Proper support ensures that your spine remains in a neutral position while you sleep, which is crucial for avoiding back pain or discomfort. A supportive mattress will maintain this alignment regardless of its firmness level. In fact, you can have a soft mattress that provides excellent support, just as easily as you can have a firm mattress that does not offer sufficient support for your needs.

When choosing a mattress, it’s important to keep in mind that both firmness and support are essential for a comfortable and healthy night’s sleep. The firmness provides the immediate comfort you feel when you first lie down, while the support ensures that your body remains properly aligned throughout the night. Together, these two factors work in harmony to give you the best possible sleep experience.

How to Choose the Right Mattress Firmness for Your Body Type

The ideal level of mattress firmness can vary greatly from person to person, and your body type plays a significant role in determining what level of firmness will feel most comfortable for you. For individuals who are lighter in weight, mattresses tend to feel firmer because their bodies do not sink as deeply into the surface. As a result, lighter sleepers may find that softer mattresses provide the plush feel they are looking for without compromising on comfort.

On the other hand, individuals who fall into the average weight category may prefer a mattress that offers a medium to medium-firm feel, as this will allow for a good balance between cushioning and support, offering enough give to alleviate pressure points while still keeping the spine in alignment.

Heavier individuals, however, may find that a firmer mattress is necessary to prevent too much sinking, which can throw the spine out of alignment and lead to discomfort. For these sleepers, a mattress that offers a firm, stable surface will help evenly distribute their weight across the mattress and provide the right amount of support to keep their spine properly aligned throughout the night.

It’s important to note that the firmness scale can feel different depending on your body type, so what is marketed as a medium-firm mattress may feel too soft for a heavier person, while the same mattress may feel too firm for someone on the lighter side.

Common Myths About Mattress Firmness

There are many common misconceptions when it comes to mattress firmness, and it is important to debunk these myths to make informed choices. One of the most prevalent myths is the belief that a firmer mattress is always better for your back, especially for those who experience back pain. Whilst it is true that support is essential for maintaining spinal alignment, a mattress that is too firm can actually cause discomfort by failing to cushion pressure points like the hips and shoulders, which can result in further pain. In fact, many people with back pain benefit from a medium-firm mattress that provides a balance between support and pressure relief.

Another common misconception is the idea that soft mattresses are inherently unsupportive. Many assume that because soft mattresses allow for more sinking, they do not provide enough support for the body. However, a high-quality soft mattress can offer excellent support, especially when it is made with the right materials and construction. It’s all about finding the right combination of comfort and support, rather than relying solely on the firmness of the mattress to determine how well it will support your body.

Understanding the Firmness Scale

A firmness scale is useful to guide consumers into an understanding of how the mattress is likely to feel. However, it should be noted that there is no universally applicable scale for measuring firmness. A mattress with a score between one and three on the firmness scale is soft, giving a plush feel, thus more appropriate for those requiring a highly cushioned surface. They are often preferred by side-sleepers because it allows for additional softness in order to provide relief for the hips and shoulders.

Compared to those that have a score of between four and six, those that fall in this medium range usually tend to provide a good balance and hence are favoured among various classes of sleepers. Such a mattress gives sufficient soft feel to offer comfort and still provides support to keep the body aligned. Lastly, the mattress rated between seven and ten is the hardest and is therefore perfect for back and stomach sleepers who require that firm surface support in order to maintain proper spine alignment.

Which Mattress Firmness Suits Your Sleep Style Best?

In this section, we’ll explore how different mattress firmness levels can impact your comfort based on your sleep style. Whether you’re a side sleeper, back sleeper, stomach sleeper, or a combination of each, understanding the right level of support can help you wake up feeling refreshed. Let’s look at which mattress firmness could be the ideal fit for you.

What is the Best Mattress Firmness for Back Sleepers?

When it comes to back sleepers, finding the right firmness is all about maintaining proper spinal alignment. The best mattress for back sleepers is often a medium-firm mattress, usually rated between 6 and 7 on the firmness scale. This type of mattress provides enough support to keep the spine in its natural curve while also offering just enough give to cradle the shoulders and hips.

A mattress that is too soft can cause the lower back to sink, leading to discomfort and poor alignment, while one that is too firm may not provide enough cushioning for optimal comfort. For back sleepers who want to avoid waking up with lower back pain, a medium-firm mattress is often the sweet spot.

What Mattress Firmness is Best for Side Sleepers?

Because side sleeping puts pressure on the shoulders and hips, the best mattress for side sleepers is typically on the softer side. Approximately between 3 and 5 in firmness allows for sufficient sinkage to permit contouring by the mattress and relieve pressure points while attending to a proper spine alignment.

A side sleeper needs a soft surface that will cushion those pressure points, but it also needs to ensure that the mattress does not allow so much sinkage that the spine is discomfited from its correct linear alignment. A too-soft mattress could allow the hips to push down excessively and thus cause disarray with spinal alignment. Yet, a fairly somewhat firmer mattress, by contrast, may provide insufficient pressure relief.

What Firmness is Best for Stomach Sleepers?

For stomach sleepers, a firmer mattress is usually the best choice. Stomach sleepers need a mattress that prevents the torso from sinking too much into the bed, which can cause the spine to curve and lead to lower back pain. The ideal mattress firmness for stomach sleepers typically falls between 7 and 9 on the firmness scale.

A firm surface helps keep the body in a more neutral position, reducing the risk of discomfort or strain on the lower back. Stomach sleepers should avoid mattresses that are too soft, as they can cause the midsection to sink, leading to poor spinal alignment and discomfort.

What Mattress is Best for Combination Sleepers?

Combination sleepers are those people who change positions while sleeping. These people require a mattress with a mix of comfort and support. It would be better to choose a medium-firm mattress with a rating of 5-7 on the firmness scale, which will give enough versatility for combinations of positions.

Stiff enough for back and stomach support when needed, but soft enough to cushion pressure points with side sleeping: this is a bed that combination sleepers really can like. Combination sleepers also have the added advantage of choosing a mattress with good responsiveness, letting the surface readjust quickly as they change positions for consistent support and comfort throughout the night.

Mattress Firmness & Common Health Issues

What Mattress Firmness is Best for Back Pain?

For people dealing with back pain, the firmness of a mattress plays a crucial role in managing discomfort. A medium-firm mattress is often the best choice because it strikes the right balance between comfort and support. This firmness level helps keep your spine properly aligned, which is essential for alleviating lower back pain. If your mattress is too soft, your lower back might sink in too much, putting strain on your spine. On the other hand, a mattress that is too firm can create pressure points on your joints, worsening the pain.

For many individuals, a medium-firm mattress offers enough support to maintain spinal alignment without being too hard on sensitive areas.

Can a Soft Mattress Help with Arthritis or Joint Pain?

If you suffer from arthritis or joint pain, a softer mattress may provide the relief you need. Soft mattresses are generally better at contouring to your body, which allows them to cushion areas like your hips, shoulders, and knees, where joint pain tends to be more pronounced.

The added pressure relief from a softer surface can reduce stiffness and soreness, making it easier for you to move and sleep comfortably. A mattress that is too firm, on the other hand, can increase discomfort by failing to cushion these critical pressure points.

Is a Firm Mattress Better for Acid Reflux and GERD?

People who suffer from acid reflux or GERD often benefit from a firmer mattress, as it helps to maintain an upright posture while sleeping. A softer mattress can cause the torso to sink, which may worsen reflux symptoms by allowing stomach acid to rise into the oesophagus.

A firm mattress, combined with a slightly elevated pillow or bed frame, can help keep the upper body more upright, reducing the likelihood of acid travelling upward during sleep. This combination can make a big difference for those who regularly experience discomfort from GERD or acid reflux at night.

What Mattress Firmness is Best for Hot Sleepers?

For individuals sensitive to heat or those who sleep hot, the firmness of a mattress can significantly impact how cool you feel throughout the night. Softer mattresses, particularly those made from materials like memory foam, tend to retain heat more because they cradle your body and trap warmth.

Firmer mattresses, on the other hand, promote better airflow around your body, which can help keep you cooler. If staying cool is a priority, you might want to consider a firmer mattress that’s designed with cooling technology, such as gel-infused foam or breathable covers. This type of mattress can help prevent overheating and provide a more restful sleep for those who struggle with night sweats or temperature sensitivity.

Why Should you Test a Mattress?

If you're looking for the perfect mattress firmness, testing mattresses in person can make a huge difference. No amount of reading reviews or looking at ratings can fully replace the experience of lying down on a mattress and feeling it for yourself.

When you visit a showroom, make sure to spend a solid 10-15 minutes on each mattress you're considering, and lie down in your usual sleep position. Whether you sleep on your back, side, or stomach, this is your opportunity to really get a sense of how the mattress will feel night after night.

Take your time and move around to see how it supports your body in different positions. Remember that your body will tell you quickly whether a mattress feels just right or not, and this hands-on experience is important in finding the right firmness for your comfort.

For many shoppers, buying a mattress traditionally means heading to a shop to try out different options. However, with the growing popularity of online shopping, brands like Next Divan have transformed the way people choose a mattress by providing the same confidence and clarity you’d expect in-store.

Although online descriptions can’t fully replicate the experience of lying on a mattress, they offer a wealth of information that brings you closer to finding the right fit from home.

Next Divan has made online shopping a practical, straightforward way to buy a mattress by offering detailed specifications, firmness ratings, and genuine customer reviews.

These insights allow you to narrow down options tailored to your specific sleep needs, and, with trusted descriptions, buyers can understand each mattress's feel and support level before making a decision.

With such detailed resources available, online mattress shopping has become a reliable and convenient alternative. While testing may have once been essential, Next Divan provides everything needed to make an informed choice, making the in-store experience less necessary for finding your ideal mattress.

Finding the Right Fit: Using Mattress Reviews to Help

Even though finding a mattress online can be confusing, it is still a great way for you to make an informed choice of what will work best for you. Reviews allow you to see first-hand accounts on aspects such as firmness, support, comfort, and durability-this will give you a better understanding of how a mattress really performs.

To get the best out of reviews, begin by searching for others that match your particular needs. For instance, being a side sleeper, pay attention to reviews from side sleepers, which often discuss for the side sleeper the importance of things like cushioning and contouring in this position. Likewise, if you want more support for your back pain, look for comments about support and spine alignment to help you narrow down which mattresses are versatile for you.

Other aspects of firmness vary with personal preferences, and it sure would be helpful to hear what different people have to say. Phrases such as "somewhat firm", "soft but supportive", or "just right for back-sleepers" give an idea about just how firm or soft a mattress is. If you run warm while you sleep, definitely search for reviews on temperature regulation; many users offer up how hot or cold a mattress sleeps throughout the night.

Reviews for reputable brands such as Next Divan also touch on essential aspects of online shopping: the delivery and customer service. A smooth delivery experience and good support could smooth out the process and give added confidence when making a purchase without a showroom test. Often many reviews will cover how the mattress behaved durability-wise over the long haul, which is always a factor to consider when you're making a big purchase like a mattress.

Find Your Perfect Mattress with Next Divan

Shopping for a mattress is a big decision, but with our collection at Next Divan, you’re investing in more than just a mattress – you’re choosing long-term comfort, quality, and support. Our carefully crafted mattresses span a range of firmness levels, ensuring that whether you’re a side sleeper seeking extra cushioning, a back sleeper needing firm support, or someone with specific health concerns, you’ll find an option that’s right for you. Our selection is designed to accommodate all sleep styles, so you can feel confident that the right mattress is within reach, helping you wake up refreshed and ready to start your day.

At Next Divan, our commitment to expert craftsmanship and attention to detail means each mattress is made to last, delivering quality that makes a genuine difference in your sleep. Using materials chosen for durability and comfort, our mattresses provide a perfect blend of support and relief, creating a balanced sleep experience. Customer reviews from those who have already found their ideal mattress in our range highlight our dedication to sleep wellness and our promise of satisfaction.

Browsing our collection is straightforward, with each mattress clearly described to help you make the best choice for your needs. We believe in transparency, so what you see is what you get, making online mattress shopping a confident and rewarding experience. With options tailored to various firmness preferences and sleep needs, Next Divan ensures that you’ll find the ideal fit, delivering the comfort and support your body deserves.

Ready to find the mattress that’s crafted just for you? Explore our collection today and discover a sleep solution built with care, expertise, and a commitment to your comfort. Your best sleep is just a click away.

What Is The Ideal Mattress Firmness?