Mattress firmness is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a new mattress. It affects how comfortable and supportive the mattress feels, as well as how well it conforms to your body shape and relieves pressure points. But how do you know which firmness level is best for you? In this guide, we will explain what mattress firmness means, how it is measured, and how to choose the right firmness level based on your weight, sleeping position, and personal preference.
What is Mattress Firmness?
Mattress firmness refers to how soft or hard a mattress feels when you lie on it. It is not the same as support, which is how well the mattress keeps your spine in a neutral alignment. A mattress can be soft and supportive, or firm and unsupportive, depending on its materials and construction.
Mattress firmness is subjective, meaning that different people may perceive the same mattress differently. For example, a lightweight sleeper may find a certain mattress too firm, while a heavier sleeper may find it too soft. Therefore, there is no universal standard for measuring mattress firmness, but most manufacturers use a 10-point scale to describe their products.
Mattress Firmness Scale
The 10-point scale ranges from 1 (very soft) to 10 (very hard), with 5 being medium or medium-firm. Here is a general breakdown of the different levels on the scale and what they mean1:
- 1 (Very Soft): This is the softest option with generally deep sinkage. It may feel like sleeping on a cloud, but it may also cause spinal misalignment and poor airflow.
- 2-3 (Soft): This provides ample contour and high levels of sinkage. It may be suitable for side sleepers who need more pressure relief, but it may also trap heat and restrict movement.
- 4-6 (Medium-Firm): This is the most popular level of firmness, as it offers a balance of comfort and support. It may work well for most sleepers and sleeping positions, as it conforms to the body without sagging too much.
- 7-8 (Firm): This will feel like sleeping “on” the mattress rather than “in” it. It may be ideal for back and stomach sleepers who need more support, but it may also cause pressure points and reduced blood circulation.
- 9-10 (Very Hard): This is the hardest option with minimal sinkage. It may be preferred by some sleepers who like a very solid surface, but it may also be uncomfortable and unsuitable for most people.
How to Choose the Right Firmness Level
The right firmness level for you depends on several factors, such as your weight, sleeping position, and personal preference. Here are some general guidelines to help you choose:
- Weight: Your weight affects how much you sink into the mattress and how firm it feels to you. Lighter sleepers (less than 130 pounds) may prefer softer mattresses that conform to their body and relieve pressure points. Heavier sleepers (more than 230 pounds) may prefer firmer mattresses that provide more support and prevent excessive sagging. Average-weight sleepers (130 to 230 pounds) may opt for medium-firm mattresses that offer a balance of comfort and support.
- Sleeping Position: Your sleeping position affects how your body weight is distributed on the mattress and where you need more cushioning or support. Side sleepers may benefit from softer mattresses that conform to their curves and alleviate pressure on their hips and shoulders. Back sleepers may need medium-firm mattresses that support their lower back and keep their spine aligned. Stomach sleepers may require firmer mattresses that prevent their hips from sinking too low and causing lower back pain.
- Personal Preference: Your personal preference is ultimately the most important factor in choosing the right firmness level. You should choose a mattress that feels comfortable and supportive to you, regardless of what the scale or other people say. You can also consider other factors, such as your health conditions, sleeping partner’s preferences, climate, budget, etc.
Adjustable, Flippable, and Dual-Firmness Mattresses
If you are unsure about which firmness level to choose, or if you want more flexibility and versatility, you may consider some of these options:
- Adjustable Mattresses: These are mattresses that allow you to adjust the firmness level by inflating or deflating air chambers inside them. You can customize the firmness according to your needs and preferences, or change it over time as they change. Some adjustable mattresses also have different zones that can be adjusted separately for different parts of your body or for different sleeping partners.
- Flippable Mattresses: These are mattresses that have two different firmness levels on each side. You can flip the mattress over to switch between the firmness levels, depending on your mood or preference. Flippable mattresses may also last longer, as you can rotate and flip them regularly to prevent wear and tear.
- Dual-Firmness Mattresses: These are mattresses that have different firmness levels on each half. You can choose the firmness level that suits you best, while your sleeping partner can choose theirs. Dual-firmness mattresses may also have a zipper or a seam that allows you to separate or join the two halves, depending on your needs.
What Determines the Firmness of a Mattress?
The firmness of a mattress is largely determined by its materials and construction. Most mattresses consist of a comfort layer, a transition layer, and a support core. The comfort layer is the top layer that provides cushioning and contouring. The transition layer is the middle layer that acts as a buffer between the comfort layer and the support core. The support core is the bottom layer that provides stability and durability.
The type, thickness, density, and arrangement of these layers affect how firm or soft the mattress feels. For example, memory foam and latex are more conforming and pressure-relieving than polyfoam and fiber. Thicker layers provide more sinkage and softness than thinner layers. Higher-density foams are more durable and supportive than lower-density foams. Different layer combinations can create different firmness levels and sensations.
Is Firmness the Same as Support?
Firmness and support are two different but related concepts. Firmness refers to how soft or hard a mattress feels, while support refers to how well a mattress keeps your spine in a neutral alignment. A mattress can be soft and supportive, or firm and unsupportive, depending on its materials and construction.
Support is mainly determined by the support core of the mattress, which is usually made of coils, foam, latex, or air. A good support core should be strong enough to prevent sagging and sinking, but also flexible enough to adapt to your body shape and movements. A poor support core can cause spinal misalignment, back pain, and reduced sleep quality.
Firmness and support are both important for your comfort and health, but they are not the same thing. You should choose a mattress that has both the right firmness level and the right support level for you.
Conclusion
Mattress firmness is a personal choice that depends on various factors, such as your weight, sleeping position, and preference. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but you can use this guide as a reference to help you narrow down your options and find the best mattress for your sleep.
We hope this guide has been helpful and informative for you. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us or leave them below. Happy sleeping!