Do you feel like you are sleeping on a hard rock or sinking into the mattress? If you feel either of these, then you are not sleeping on the right mattress. It is either very hard or very soft, and instead of providing comfort, it makes sleep uncomfortable. So you need to buy a mattress from retailers like Wakefit that provides the right firmness, neither too hard nor too soft. The mattress firmness is one of the most crucial factors you should get right when purchasing one for quality sleep. However, with so many options ranging from extra firm to super soft, picking the perfect one can be quite tricky. To help you with that, here are some tips for choosing the right mattress firmness for optimal comfort. 

What Is A Mattress Firmness?

The firmness of a mattress is how hard or soft it feels. Each manufacturer has its own way of describing and measuring firmness. Typically, the mattress industry scores it using a firmness scale that ranges from 1 to 10. The softest mattress online gets a score of 10 and feels like sleeping on a cotton ball, and the hardest mattress gets a score of 1, which feels like sleeping on a rock. Various factors like construction and materials used determine the mattress’s firmness. 

Most beds have a base support core over which a comfort layer is placed. This comfort layer is designed to cushion the hips, shoulders, and other pressure points. Common materials used are memory foam, latex, fiber, and polyfoam. Thicker comfort layers are made of conforming materials and offer a softer feel, while thinner layers make for a firmer surface. 

There is a transition layer that buffers the support core and the comfort layer. This layer can offer more contouring and affect the firmness. The support core is important so that the sleeper does not sink into the mattress. It offers support and keeps the spine in a neutral position. 

Note that firmness and support are two separate features. Firmness is linked to the comfort layer, and support is determined by the core. So, a mattress can be supportive, soft, unsupportive, and firm at the same time. There is no single firmness level that is ideal for all sleepers. Various factors influence what is supportive and comfortable. 

Types Of Firmness Levels 

Soft

These are mattresses in the firmness range of 3 to 6. They are typically made of comfort layers using cushioning materials like memory foam on the top layer. They offer the characteristic feeling of deep sinkage, pressure relief, and body contouring. There is not a lot of pushback in a soft mattress, which means you feel you are sinking in. These are best suited for side sleepers or those who need more comfort on the lower back, hips, and shoulders. 

Medium-Firm 

These mattresses fall in the firmness range of 6 to 5 and combine sturdy foundations with soft top layers. Thus, there is a great balance of support and pressure relief, which makes them ideal for many types of sleepers. A sleeper may feel some sinkage but is more likely to feel lifted out of the bed than sinking inside. For this reason, they are a good choice for back or combination sleepers, as they get extra mobility. 

Firm

A firm mattress falls in the 7 or higher range on the firmness scale. These beds have a thin layer of foam and do not use plush materials in comfort layers. However, it can be highly supportive. An orthopedic memory foam mattress is a classic example of a supportive firm mattress where there is plenty of pushback. Heavy people and stomach sleepers may appreciate this type of mattress. It is also a good choice for those who have orthopedic issues.  

Tips On Choosing The Right Mattress Firmness 

Sleep Position Or Sleeping Style

It is extremely important to determine the sleeping position as every individual sleeps differently. Some like to sleep on the back, some on the side, and others on their back. Different parts of the body bear pressure in these sleep positions, and you should choose a mattress that distributes pressure evenly and allows you to sleep well. 

  • A side sleeper should choose a soft to medium mattress as the body weight is on the hips and shoulders. A bed mattress that alleviates pressure in these areas is the best option. It also promotes better spinal alignment and prevents pain and discomfort.
  • Back sleepers may feel discomfort sleeping on too hard or too soft a mattress. For this sleeping type, a medium-firm mattress is a good option as it provides ample spinal support and enough contouring. 
  • A stomach sleeper should choose a firmer mattress as it reduces sinking and prevents neck and back pain. 

Body Weight

Choose the best comfort mattress based on your body weight. If you are on the heavy side, opt for a firmer mattress, as it prevents sinking. If you are lightweight, a soft mattress is more comfortable as it offers contouring comfort. An average-weight person should choose a medium-firm mattress for the best support and comfort. 

Opt For Good Cushioning And Support

The main function of your mattress is to provide the best support and comfort for good sleep, so choose a bed that is comfortable for you. The most recommended choice is a memory foam mattress, as it provides good cushioning and firm support. 

Consider Your Health

When choosing a mattress firmness, consider your health. If you suffer from chronic back pain or other issues, choose an orthopedic mattress, as it is more supportive than other types of mattresses. 

Choose Dual Comfort When In Doubt

If you can’t find a mattress that meets your requirements, choose a dual-comfort mattress. It is firmer on one side and softer on the other, so you can choose whatever side offers more comfort. 

When choosing mattress firmness, remember to factor in your sleeping style, your body weight, and the support you need. That way, you are sure to find the firmness level of your choice.