How to Choose the Perfect Firmness for Your Next Mattress

Mattress shopping can be a bit overwhelming. Your mattress is so important because your sleep quality is so important–but, how do you know what type of mattress is the most conducive to a good night’s sleep? A brief test at a mattress store often isn’t enough to know what will be best for you long-term. In this post, we will break down the different levels of firmness in a mattress and offer suggestions on who would benefit most from each. This way, you can be sure that you are getting the right mattress for you. 

Extra Firm

Extra firm mattresses offer the most support. When you lay down on these mattresses, there will be little to no sinkage. Additionally, extra firm mattresses won’t conform to your body. They tend to feel cooler than softer mattresses because they allow for significant air circulation. Extra firm mattresses are ideal for those who weigh 230 pounds or more, especially if they sleep on their back or stomach. They offer the support larger bodies need for proper spinal positioning. Extra firm mattresses will also hold up better to the additional weight. Keep in mind that side sleepers might feel some hip pressure on extra firm mattresses. 

Firm

Firm mattresses offer many of the same advantages as extra firm mattresses: support, airflow, and durability. The main difference is that firm mattress will have a slight give when pushed down on. Thanks to the extra give, these mattresses will be more comfortable for side-sleepers than extra firm mattresses, especially for larger individuals. Firm mattresses aren’t recommended for kids or adults under 130 pounds. If you weigh over 130 pounds and you are a back- or side-sleeper, a firm mattress could be just right for you. 

Plush Medium

Many people find that medium-plush mattresses are the perfect combination of softness and support. Plush medium mattresses offer a variety of comfort systems that moderately conform to the body and relieve pressure while still reducing sinkage. Because they conform to the body, they do trap more heat than firm or extra firm mattresses–but they are cooler than softer varieties. As you would expect, medium mattresses are more durable than soft mattresses and less durable than firm ones. A plush medium mattress might be just right for you if you weigh less than 230 pounds and you are a side sleeper. They also work well for stomach and back sleepers who weigh under 130 pounds and want a little more support.

Plush

Plush mattresses aren’t typically ideal for back and stomach sleepers who weigh over 130 pounds. They will wear out and sink more quickly under the average adult’s size. They can also cause spinal alignment issues. However, if you suffer from joint pain or sleep on your side, you might need the pressure relief of a plush mattress–even if you weigh over 130 pounds. Just choose a mattress with a plush top layer and a highly supportive main body. Additionally, plush mattresses are ideal for children and adults who weigh less than 130 pounds. Plush mattresses are soft, have a lot of give, and conform closely to the body. They are great for reducing the pressure that firmer mattresses can put on your hips and shoulders. 

Ultra Plush

The less you weigh, the more you will benefit from a plush mattress. Light individuals can experience pressure and discomfort on firmer beds. This is also true for side sleepers who deal with shoulder and/or hip pain. This makes an ultra-plush mattress particularly suitable for children, smaller adults, and side-sleepers with joint pain who also enjoy a softer bed. 

Your mattress selection is extremely important. Getting the wrong mattress could lead to back, shoulder, and hip pain and it can wear the mattress out more quickly. Fortunately, it is possible to select the perfect mattress when you factor in your weight and typical sleeping position. Understanding these criteria will be even more instructive than a quick test at a mattress store. 

Mattresses should be replaced every six to eight years. If it is time to replace your mattress, you’ll find the best prices at Mattress Depot USA. Simply click here and order yours today!