21 Oct 2024
Guides
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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?

When we talk about mattress firmness, we are referring to how soft or hard a mattress feels when you first lie down on it. This initial sensation plays a significant role in determining whether you will find the mattress comfortable or not. Firmness is essentially how much the surface of the mattress resists your body weight, and it influences how deeply you sink into the bed.

Softer mattresses allow for more sinking, creating a cushioned, cradling effect, while firmer mattresses provide a more solid, supportive surface that keeps you lifted rather than sinking in. Although it may seem straightforward, firmness is a subjective experience because what feels firm to one person may feel soft to another, depending on personal preference and body type.

Many mattress manufacturers use a firmness scale that ranges from one to ten to help describe the feel of their mattresses. While there is no universal standard for this scale, generally speaking, a mattress rated between one and three will feel soft and plush, allowing your body to sink into it more deeply.

In contrast, a mattress rated between nine and ten will feel extremely firm, offering a much harder surface. Most people, however, tend to prefer a mattress that falls somewhere in the middle of the scale, often between five and seven, which provides a balanced mix of softness and support that caters to a variety 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

The firmness scale is a useful tool for helping consumers understand how a mattress is likely to feel, but it’s important to remember that it’s not a one-size-fits-all measurement. A mattress rated as soft, between one and three on the scale, will provide a plush feel that is perfect for those who prefer a deeply cushioned surface. This level of firmness is often favoured by side sleepers, who need extra softness to relieve pressure on their hips and shoulders.

In contrast, a mattress that falls into the medium range, typically rated between four and six, offers a balance between softness and firmness, making it a popular choice for a variety of sleepers. This type of mattress provides enough give to be comfortable, while still offering enough support to keep the body aligned. Finally, a mattress that is rated as firm, between seven and ten, provides a much harder surface that is ideal for back and stomach sleepers, who require more support to maintain proper spinal 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?

Side sleepers place more pressure on certain areas of their body, such as the hips and shoulders, so the ideal mattress for side sleepers is often softer. A mattress with a firmness rating between 3 and 5 allows side sleepers to sink in just enough for the mattress to contour to their body, relieving pressure points and promoting proper alignment.

Side sleepers need a softer surface to cushion these pressure points, but it’s also essential that the mattress provides enough support to keep the spine straight. A mattress that’s too soft can cause the hips to sink too much, disrupting spinal alignment, while a firmer mattress might not provide the necessary relief from pressure.

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, or those who frequently change positions during the night, need a mattress that offers a balance between comfort and support. A medium-firm mattress, rated between 5 and 7 on the firmness scale, is often the best choice for combination sleepers, as it provides enough versatility to support multiple sleeping positions.

This type of mattress is firm enough to support the back and stomach when needed, but also soft enough to cushion pressure points when side sleeping. Combination sleepers also benefit from mattresses with good responsiveness, allowing the surface to quickly adjust as they switch positions, ensuring 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

Choosing a mattress online can feel overwhelming, but customer reviews make it easier to find one that suits your needs. Reviews provide firsthand insights on key features like firmness, support, comfort, and durability, giving you a clearer idea of how a mattress performs in real life.

To make the most of reviews, start by focusing on those that mention your specific needs. If you’re a side sleeper, look for reviews from other side sleepers, who often discuss aspects like cushioning and contouring, which are essential for this position. Similarly, if you need extra support for back issues, look for comments on support and spinal alignment to find the mattress that could work best for you.

Firmness is another crucial aspect, but since firmness preferences vary, it’s helpful to read multiple perspectives. Comments like “a bit firm,” “soft but supportive,” or “perfect for back sleepers” can guide you in understanding how the mattress feels overall. If you tend to sleep hot, check for reviews about temperature control, as many customers share feedback on how cool or warm a mattress feels through the night.

Reviews for reputable brands like Next Divan also touch on important aspects of online shopping—such as delivery and customer service. A positive delivery experience and responsive support can make the process smoother and provide added confidence when buying without a showroom test. Also, many reviews cover long-term durability, an essential consideration for a big purchase like a mattress. Customers often share insights on how well the mattress maintains its shape and support over time.

By reading through reviews, you can get a full picture of how a mattress might fit your needs. Next Divan provides detailed descriptions and real customer feedback to make online mattress shopping simpler and more reliable. With a thoughtful review approach, finding the right mattress becomes a more confident, informed decision.

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?