Choosing the Best Firm Mattress For You

Your weight, body type, sleep style, and comfort level should be considered when picking a firm mattress. Back and stomach sleepers often opt for a firmer mattress for more support, but personal taste and preferences also come into play.

Firmness levels

Each manufacturer has a different standard for classifying a medium-firm, firm, or extra-firm mattress. Some brands measure mattress firmness on a scale of 1-10, with higher numbers (6 and up) being on the firmer side of the scale. No matter the brand or rating, firmness levels share similar features. These levels are determined based on materials, construction, and how hard the mattress feels.

Medium-firm

A medium-firm mattress is less conforming to the contours of your body than a soft mattress, is less prone to sagging, is more durable than a softer or plush mattress, and has a firmer feel. It is considered more “temperature neutral” since it does not hug the body (which causes heat to be trapped closer to the skin). Many sleepers who weigh 130-230 pounds choose this type of mattress, and it is among the most popular mattress choices.

Firm

A firm mattress does not sink when you lie down on it, minimally conforms to your body’s contours, is more durable than a softer or plush mattress, and is often chosen by back and stomach sleepers as well as sleepers over 230 pounds. These mattresses are more temperature-neutral, have less padding, and are a popular, more affordable consumer choice.

Extra-firm

An extra-firm mattress has a hard surface, does not sink, and does not conform to your body’s contours. Like a firm mattress, it is more durable than a softer or plush option. Out of the three types, sleepers choose this firmness the least, and it can be more expensive.

Firm mattress types

Mattresses are made from a variety of materials and are available in many styles, including innerspring, hybrid, memory foam, and foam. Typically, mattresses have 2-5 layers of materials in different densities.

Innerspring

One of the most common and traditional styles, an innerspring mattress is designed with metal coils surrounded by soft padding to support the body while you sleep.

Memory foam

An increasingly popular option, a firm memory foam mattress molds to the shape of your body. This type of mattress offers pressure-point relief and often has multiple layers of foam for additional comfort and support. 

Hybrid

A hybrid mattress combines the features of both an innerspring and memory foam mattress for pressure relief and support. Couples often choose this type of mattress because it has features that meet the sleep needs of both individuals.

Foam

A foam mattress can be a blend of different types of foam, including memory foam, gel memory foam, open cell memory foam, polyurethane (poly) foam, or latex (Dunlop or Talalay) foam. This type of mattress conforms more to body contours, offers less bounce, and provides good pressure relief and support.

Best firm mattress for back pain

A medium-firm or memory foam mattress provides better spine and pelvis support for those dealing with back issues, including lower back pain and sciatica. A mattress that is too firm, however, can be too rigid. Opt for the middle ground for the right balance of comfort and contoured support for the best quality sleep.

Is a firm mattress right for me?

In choosing a firm mattress, you want to pick a mattress that feels comfortable, provides pressure relief, and distributes body weight evenly. How does the mattress feel when you lie down on it? You don’t want to encounter any sagging. The goal is to find a mattress that contours to your shape and sleep style without being too soft or too hard. Also, take into consideration your sleep style and weight. Sleepers who weigh more, as well as back and stomach sleepers, need more support.