Written by Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
While some beds offer a plush, hug-like sensation, others can keep you both cool and bolstered with a firmer feel. Firm mattresses tend to be great options for back and stomach sleepers, as they help the spine stay aligned by supporting the hips and stomach. For heavier sleepers, a firm mattress could also help you avoid bottoming out and lead to a better night’s rest.
Whatever your reason for seeking a firm sleeping surface, we’ve selected our top picks so you can find the robust support you need. Take a peek at some of the firmest mattresses on the market below.
10 Best Firm Mattresses
- Plank Firm – Editor's Pick
- Saatva Classic – Best Firm Hybrid Mattress
- Nolah Evolution – Best Firm Luxury Mattress
- Emma Hybrid Comfort – Best Firm Mattress for Couples
- Helix Dawn Luxe – Best Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers
- DreamCloud – Best Firm Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Nectar – Best Firm Mattress for Pressure Relief
- WinkBed Plus – Best Firm Cooling Mattress
- Titan Plus – Best Firm Mattress for Heavy People
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Firm Mattress for Back Sleepers
My Video Review of The Best Firm Beds
Compare The Best Firm Mattresses
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| Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress | Saatva Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Emma Hybrid Comfort | Helix Dawn Luxe Mattress | DreamCloud Original Mattress | Nectar Mattress | WinkBed Plus Mattress | Titan Plus | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Firm: 7.5/10 | Soft: 6/10 | ||
| Material | Foam | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — |
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| Warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | 15-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime Warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping | Free white glove delivery | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping |
| Trial Period | 120 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 365 nights | 100 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights |
| Best For | Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Back Pain, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Joint Pain | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers |
Top 10 Firm Mattresses, Reviewed
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Those in the market for a Firm bed now have a dual-sided choice to see what they require to sleep well-supported and comfortable in Plank Firm, a new product from Brooklyn Bedding.
25% off sitewide
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Those in the market for a Firm bed now have a dual-sided choice to see what they require to sleep well-supported and comfortable in Plank Firm, a new product from Brooklyn Bedding.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Those in the market for a Firm bed now have a dual-sided choice to see what they require to sleep well-supported and comfortable in Plank Firm, a new product from Brooklyn Bedding.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Why the Plank Firm Earned Best Firm Mattress Overall
The Plank Firm takes inspiration from the flat, pragmatic sleeping surfaces used in certain parts of Asia, and makes no secret of its dedication to peak firmness. It achieves a rare and coveted balance in terms of feel: enough firmness for sturdy support, plus some light cradling from the quilted top.
This bed lives up to its name by being one of the firmest mattresses available today, and its consistent performance earned it the top spot in our roundup.
What’s the Plank Firm Mattress Made Of?
The Plank Firm is a flippable mattress with firm and ultra-firm sides. It’s 9.5 inches thick and has four total layers.
The ultra-firm side increases its buoying properties with less loft to its quilted top. On the other side, due to its tack-and-jump stitching, the quilted top layer has slightly more loft, and leads into 2 inches of TitanFlex™ comfort foam. The middle of the bed features a 6-inch high-density foam core that should satisfy sleepers who want a durable, anti-sink surface.
To augment the Plank, you can choose to add a GlacioTex™ cooling cover to both sides. The cover’s fabric contains fibers that help to absorb and disperse excess body heat.
My Take: The Plank Firm is one of very few mattresses out there that takes explicit pride in its very firm feel. It should be particularly helpful for sleepers who don’t like an overly plush bed, stomach sleepers, plus-size folks, and anyone who wants to prioritize a level surface for spinal alignment.
What I Liked
- Reassuring edge support – Even though it’s an all-foam model, the Plank Firm has excellent edge support. The high-density foam that makes up its core also gives it a sturdy perimeter.
- Enough support for plus-size and stomach sleepers – For heavy people and stomach sleepers, this bed is likely a dream come true, especially if you find yourself preferring less cushion.
Potential Drawbacks
- Cooling cover costs extra – The cooling cover comes at an added cost, and is not included in the baseline model of this bed.
- It'll feel too hard for some folks – Petite side sleepers and people who love a plush mattress probably won’t find this mattress to be very comfortable.
Interested in more details? Check out our Plank Firm mattress review, or see our roundup of the best mattresses of 2023.
Saatva Mattress
Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Saatva Classic Earned Best Firm Hybrid Mattress
The Saatva Classic “Firm” model is a hybrid bed that features a coil-on-coil construction with firmer foams in its comfort layers. Sleepers should feel like they’re floating on top of the mattress rather than sinking into it, and the resulting spinal alignment can be a solid defense against aches and pains.
“You can sleep in just about any position on this mattress and still feel comfortable,” said my fellow tester Stuart. I also felt that my midsection was perfectly lifted by the Saatva Classic, and praise the dual coil unit for doing a great job of supporting my lower back.
What’s the Saatva Classic Made Of?
The Saatva Classic is available in two heights (11.5 and 14.5 inches). From the get-go, this bed is extremely mindful of spinal alignment. Both its cozy Euro pillow top and the strip of memory foam underneath provide additional support in the middle of the mattress, specifically targeting the lumbar region of the back.
The Classic’s dual innerspring design includes individually wrapped and zoned springs on top of an interconnected coil base. While the first layer of coils helps the mattress contour to your body, the base prevents sagging and boosts support. The steel in the base coils has also been tempered to increase their durability.
If the Firm variant of the Saatva Classic sounds a bit too hard, you might also try the Luxury Firm option. There’s a Soft model available as well, with more cushioning inserted in the pillow top layer.
Our Take: “This mattress feels sturdy and well built.” – Stuart Petty, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Zoned lumbar support – The center third of the first spring unit has thicker, stronger coils, ensuring a healthy amount of support for your lumbar spine. Inside the second coild unit, there’s also a Lumbar Zone® Active Spinal Wire placed around this crucial area for more bolstering. “If you need a mattress that’s got your back, you need the Saatva Classic,” Stuart remarked.
- Customizability – I was a big fan of all the ways I could personalize this mattress: The Classic’s customizable features cater directly to your sleep needs, You need something softer? Great, you can do that. Something firmer? Also an option.
- Free white glove delivery – As a convenient bonus, Saatva offers free white glove delivery services and removal of your old mattress.
Potential Drawbacks
- Not great at motion isolation – I have to note that I could feel larger movements ripple across the surface of the mattress. Small movements didn’t have as pronounced of an effect, but moving from my side to my back causes big shakes.
- Return fees – Returning a Saatva mattress will cost you $99 in shipping, even if you send it back during the year-long sleep trial.
Want to learn more? Read our full Saatva review, or check out our roundup of the best hybrid mattresses.
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Nolah’s innovative pressure-relieving abilities should be an excellent fit for side-sleepers, and if you struggle with overheating, the AirFoamICE™ technology should keep you cool all night long.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Nolah’s innovative pressure-relieving abilities should be an excellent fit for side-sleepers, and if you struggle with overheating, the AirFoamICE™ technology should keep you cool all night long.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Nolah’s innovative pressure-relieving abilities should be an excellent fit for side-sleepers, and if you struggle with overheating, the AirFoamICE™ technology should keep you cool all night long.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Why the Nolah Evolution Earned Best Firm Luxury Mattress
You can order the Nolah Evolution in Plush, Luxury Firm, or Firm to match your comfort preferences. The Firm model embodies a cozy compromise between firmness and pressure relief: It’s flat enough to ensure proper body alignment, but still retains some softness to help with pressure buildup (a big concern for side and back sleepers). It also boasts a thick, impressive profile with no less than seven internal layers.
“The Nolah Evolution has been one of my favorite mattresses to try,” said one of my fellow testers, Liz. “Not only is it supportive, but it’s really comfortable.”
What’s the Nolah Evolution Made Of?
The Nolah Evolution is a striking 15 inches high with seven internal layers. It’s available in three firmness levels: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm.
Its upper cover is made of organic cotton and ArcticTex™ fibers, the latter of which help to combat heat buildup. The cover tops a plush 2-inch Euro pillow top outfitted with soft foam and quilting that also resists overheating. Surrounding the pillow top is a gusset with vents that allow for airflow and encourage warmth to exit the bed.
Next up is a 2-inch layer of AirFoamICE™, Nolah’s proprietary alternative to memory foam. According to the brand this material bests memory foam at pressure relief and cooling, as well as outlasts it in terms of durability.
After a 2-inch layer of high-resilience foam and a 1-inch layer of transition foam, you’ll reach the Evolution’s 8-inch coil unit. The coils are zoned so that thicker, stronger springs buoy up the lumbar region, and reinforced along the edges.
Finally, a layer of recycled plant fiber stabilizes the mattress at its base.
Our Take: “I could even feel the zoned support in the springs working to support my body weight appropriately.” – Stuart, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Lots of cooling strategies – The Evolution’s advanced cooling features should be helpful if you’re prone to overheating when you sleep. The AirFoamICE™, breathable cover, a venting border gusset, and the hybrid design all help to keep the temperature cozy.
- Impressive layers – Its seven layers—including a quilted Euro top—and signature materials earn the Nolah Evolution its designation as a true luxury mattress. Stuart rightly pointed out that it’s “packed” to the brim with specialized materials.
Potential Drawbacks
- It’s tough to transport – The Nolah Evolution is a large and heavy mattress, so transporting it often requires two or more people. “Make sure you have someone available to help you set this thing up, as it’s thicker than most of the mattresses we work with,” Stuart advised.
- It’s expensive – The luxury features in this bed command a higher price than more basic mattress models.
Looking for more info? Read our Nolah Evolution mattress review, or peruse our roundup of the best luxury mattresses.
Emma Hybrid Comfort
With three foam layers for comfort and a zoned innerspring unit, this hybrid mattress from Emma can support sleepers of all shapes and sizes.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Emma Hybrid Comfort
With three foam layers for comfort and a zoned innerspring unit, this hybrid mattress from Emma can support sleepers of all shapes and sizes.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Emma Hybrid Comfort
With three foam layers for comfort and a zoned innerspring unit, this hybrid mattress from Emma can support sleepers of all shapes and sizes.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Emma Hybrid Comfort Earned Best Firm Mattress for Couples
When you sleep with a partner, it’s important that you both get an uninterrupted night’s rest. The Emma Hybrid Comfort has stellar motion isolation, making it a great choice for couples, especially those who sleep light. But despite the Hybrid Comfort’s foam comfort layers, it’s still a relatively firm mattress.
Additionally, the innerspring unit inside the Hybrid Comfort is divided into seven zones that offer different levels of resistance. These zones correspond to specific regions of the body, ensuring that certain areas receive extra-sturdy support.
What’s the Emma Hybrid Comfort Made Of?
The Emma Hybrid Comfort has six layers that stack up 13 inches thick. It’s covered in a moisture-wicking cover made of light fibers that keep it soft and breathable.
Underneath are three layers of foam. The first is a proprietary Airgocell® foam that provides airflow through its open-pored construction. Then comes a memory foam layer that specializes in motion isolation. The third foam layer is made of HRX foam, a durable and firm material meant to provide reliable support.
Up next is the coil system, made of individually wrapped springs arranged into seven different support zones. Finally, a sturdy base ensures durability and stability. The bed also has a bottom cover outfitted with handles to ensure easy positioning.
My Take: The Emma Hybrid Comfort caters to couples who want a bed that will last. Its sturdy construction, motion isolation, and zoned support are all features worth noting if you and your partner are searching for a durable hybrid mattress.
What I Liked
- Motion isolation – The Emma Hybrid Comfort is topped with three layers of foam, a material known for absorbing motion. You shouldn’t be able to feel your partner moving on the other side of the bed.
- Solid pricepoint – At around 1,500 dollars for a king-size mattress, combined with Emma’s frequent sales, the Hybrid Comfort is decently priced when compared to the competition.
Potential Drawbacks
- Less responsiveness than other hybrids – With great motion isolation comes a little less responsiveness. This means if you’re a restless or combination sleeper, it might be a bit difficult to move around on this bed.
- Tall and heavy – Standing at 13” tall, the Emma Hybrid Comfort is certainly thick, even without an added bedframe or base. We recommend recruiting some help if you want to move it after it’s decompressed.
Looking for more info? See our full review of the Emma Hybrid Comfort, or check out our roundup of the best mattresses for couples.
Helix Dawn Luxe Mattress
This upgraded version of the Helix Dawn is aimed at providing sleepers with enhanced comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
15-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Dawn Luxe Mattress
This upgraded version of the Helix Dawn is aimed at providing sleepers with enhanced comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
15-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Dawn Luxe Mattress
This upgraded version of the Helix Dawn is aimed at providing sleepers with enhanced comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Helix Dawn Luxe Earned Best Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers who don’t like a severe sinking feeling should enjoy the firmness of this Helix mattress, which is a taller, upgraded version of Helix’s Dawn model.
Typically, people who sleep on their sides prefer a more plush mattress to cradle their shoulders and hips. But some side sleepers crave a more supportive bed that won’t compress as easily. The trick then becomes balancing a good amount of firmness with enough pressure relief for those key body parts.
Thankfully, the Helix Dawn Luxe is up to the task. Its quilted pillow top is pleasingly soft, but the three foam layers beneath it prioritize responsiveness and support. Each of the foams is also CertiPUR-US® certified, signaling an absence of harmful chemicals.
What’s the Helix Dawn Luxe Made Of?
The Helix Dawn Luxe has six total layers and is 13.5 inches thick. At its surface is a quilted pillow top that eases you into the firmer layers below with a plush welcome.
Under the pillow top are three layers of proprietary Helix foams. The first is a responsive foam that molds to the contours of your body. The second is a latex-like foam that’s a bit firmer and bouncier than the layer above. The third is a transitional foam that boosts support and segues into the bed’s springs.
As for the coil unit, it’s zoned to feel softer under your shoulders and firmer under your hips (to prevent worrisome sinkage). The coils are individually wrapped to prevent motion transfer and reinforced around the bed’s perimeter for edge support.
At the very bottom of the mattress is a layer of tough, long-lasting DuraDense foam.
When you order this bed, you can choose between a TENCEL™ or GlacioTex™ cooling cover. Both options should prevent overheating, but the GlacioTex™ variant has even more cooling power, and will add an extra fee to the total cost.
My Take: The Helix Dawn Luxe improves on the Helix Dawn by incorporating a cushy pillow top, zoned support in the coil system, and 2 more inches of height. The softer surface should be welcoming to the niche population of side sleepers who need some cushion around their hips and shoulders, but prefer a firmer feel from their bed overall.
What I Liked
- Durability – Like many other firm mattresses, the Helix Dawn Luxe should last a long time without noticeable wear or sagging.
- Especially strong support – The support features in this bed make it an especially sound choice for heavier folks or sleepers experiencing back pain.
Potential Drawbacks
- Too firm for some side sleepers – Helix markets the Dawn Luxe to stomach and back sleepers moreso than side sleepers, which makes sense, given its firmness. I think that side sleepers who enjoy a flatter, firmer feel will like it, but if they’re lightweight, there may be too much pressure buildup around their hips and shoulders.
Want to learn more? Read our Helix mattress review, or check out our roundup of the best mattresses for side sleepers.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the DreamCloud Earned Best Firm Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleeping and firm mattresses go hand-in-hand. This is because firmer beds are able to keep the sleeper’s pelvis lifted enough to prevent an uncomfortable curvature in the lower back, which can be an issue for stomach sleepers.
The good news is that you shouldn’t have to worry about that with the DreamCloud. While testing this premium hybrid, my fellow reviewer, Stuart, said that he loved this bed on his stomach (as well as his back). “It can be hard to find a bed with the right amount of support for stomach sleepers especially,” he said. “This bed should have the perfect balance of comfort and support for those who sleep on their stomachs.”
What’s the DreamCloud Made Of?
The DreamCloud boasts an impressive 14-inch profile, making this a thicker mattress compared to many others on the market. It has seven total layers if you include its cashmere-blend cover.
Under that soft cover is a 1.5-inch layer of soft foam for initial pressure relief. Beneath is a 1-inch layer of gel memory foam for even more contouring and comfort. A subsequent 2-inch layer of transition foam adds some firmer support to the mix and forms a protective barrier between sleepers and the bed’s coils.
The 8.5-inch spring unit features pocketed coils that are thicker around the edges. They’re perched on top of a 1-inch base layer of sturdy foam.
My Take: One of my all time favorites!
What We Liked
- Support for your spine – I rate this bed very well for stomach sleeping, and for spinal alignment in general. When it comes to spine alignment, you best believe it’s going to keep you from sinking into weird angles. No matter what sleep position I chose, side, stomach back, I felt supported in each one.
- It’s easy to move around on – The DreamCloud is responsive, which helps make it easier to move about on the mattress. “We had no problems adjusting positions and never felt stuck in the bed,” said Stuart.
Potential Drawbacks
- Edge support is weaker than average – Stuart noted that the DreamCloud’s edge support was “a bit lackluster” for a hybrid bed.
- The cushioning doesn’t go deep – We don’t think this bed would work for people who sleep on their sides, or anyone who relishes sinking far into the comfort layers. “If you like a deep contour, DreamCloud probably won’t be for you,” Stuart warned.
Intrigued by this bed? Learn more by reading our full DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid mattress review, or check out our roundup of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Nectar Earned Best Firm Mattress for Pressure Relief
If you enjoy the give of traditional memory foam but don’t want to sink too deep into your bed, the Nectar could be for you. This mattress uses a combination of three kinds of foam to provide the pressure relief many sleepers love while still preserving a firm foundation.
In my opinion, the top is soft enough to let you sink in just a bit, especially around pressure points, but you still feel the firm support below.
What’s the Nectar Mattress Made Of?
The Nectar is 12 inches high and has four layers if you count its top cover.
The cover has a cooling design, with polyethylene fibers designed to combat heat. Beneath it, there’s a 2-inch layer of memory foam that’s been infused with gel for additional cooling. This layer molds to the body for that signature cradling sensation, and should ease the joints that bear the most strain when you lie down.
The next 3-inch layer consists of a responsive foam that absorbs motion and bolsters the back. It serves as a transitional layer between the memory foam and the sturdy, 7-inch layer of base foam.
Every foam in the Nectar has been certified by CertiPUR-US®, an organization that verifies the absence of certain harmful chemicals in foams.
My Take: You can sink into the bed easily from the top two layers, but still feel plenty of support (especially around the lumbar) from the firm, dense foam at the base.
What I Liked
- It suits a wide range of sleepers – The Nectar has a mid-range firmness level that’s suitable for most sleeping positions, giving it near-universal appeal. The balance between its support and pressure-relief capabilities allows for this versatility, and should prevent users from ever feeling “stuck” or overheating. For my combo sleepers … there's plenty of support, responsiveness and pressure relief in Nectar's foam layers that'll work for you.
- Affordability – Thanks to its generous year-long trial period and reasonable price, the Nectar was made to suit most budgets.
Potential Drawbacks
- Stomach sleepers should look elsewhere – Strict stomach sleepers may find the Nectar to be a bit too soft, especially around the hips. From my perspective, stomach sleepers- it's not for you. You need more lumbar support than this mattress can give.
- Won’t run as cool as a hybrid – Despite some cooling features, Nectar’s all-foam construction won’t beat a hybrid mattress at temperature regulation. I was not impressed with its cooling features. As memory foam can trap body heat, the cooling cover is also thrown in to offset heat. Does it work? Eh, it's okay.
Looking for more info? Read our full Nectar mattress review, or check out our roundup of the most comfortable mattresses.
WinkBed Plus Mattress
WinkBed’s quality design and support make the Plus an exceptional option for heavier folks.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Plus Mattress
WinkBed’s quality design and support make the Plus an exceptional option for heavier folks.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Plus Mattress
WinkBed’s quality design and support make the Plus an exceptional option for heavier folks.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the WinkBed Plus Earned Best Firm Cooling Mattress
The WinkBed Plus is an even more robust take on the original WinkBed. It expertly balances high-density, long-lasting materials with cooling elements, resulting in a bed that’s both firm and temperature-regulating.
Like all WinkBeds, this mattress includes Triple Layer Heat-Disperse™ technology that helps to dissipate warmth. But its 100% pure latex support layer elevates the cool factor even further, boasting an open-cell design that permits heightened air transfer throughout the material. The bed’s hybrid design facilitates cooling, too: air can circulate more freely around and through a coil unit than it can with an all-foam design.
What’s the WinkBed Plus Made Of?
The WinkBed Plus is 13.5 inches tall with a hybrid design. The Euro top on this mattress keeps it from tipping into “too firm” territory, and gives soothing pressure relief to sensitive body parts. Its protected by a moisture-wicking, plant-derived Tencel© cover.
Under the Euro top, there’s a comfort layer that the brand claims is 50% denser than the foams in more traditional spring mattresses. This layer contributes to a long-term supportive feel.
A 2.5-inch layer of breathable latex foam follows the comfort layers above. This layer is divided into no less than seven support zones to maximize responsiveness and healthy alignment.
The WinkBed Plus’s coil unit is also zoned. Its pocketed coils give varying amounts of resistance to different parts of the body, and they’re also banded together—a design that enables them to support more weight than standard springs.
Our Take: “I found the bed to give me an excellent amount of support, while other features … such as the cooling factor, added to the overall comfort.” – Sean, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Super durable – The firmest mattresses are often the most durable, and this correlation holds true for the WinkBed Plus. WinkBeds recruits a third party to replicate the mattress wear and tear that would result from 20 years of use by a 350-pound person. These tests have reliably shown that the WinkBed Plus has an impressive ability to resist sagging over time.
- Responsive latex – The zoned latex layer in the WinkBed Plus offers bounce in addition to specialized support. “Its latex is … responsive and bouncy to help with repositioning [and] keep you from feeling stuck,” Sean remarked.
Potential Drawbacks
- Too firm for smaller sleepers – Because it was made for sleepers who weigh around 250 pounds or more, the WinkBed Plus may feel overly firm to petite people.
- Costlier than its predecessor – The Winkbed Plus has a higher price point than the original WinkBed, and isn’t the most budget-friendly option for a new mattress.
Looking for more info? Read our comprehensive review of the WinkBed Plus, or check out our roundup of the best cooling mattresses.
Titan Plus
This specially-designed hybrid is made for heavier sleepers to help them get better, more comfortable sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Titan Plus
This specially-designed hybrid is made for heavier sleepers to help them get better, more comfortable sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Titan Plus
This specially-designed hybrid is made for heavier sleepers to help them get better, more comfortable sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Titan Plus Earned Best Firm Mattress for Heavy People
Heavier sleepers often need firmer beds to prevent sinkage and keep their spines in good alignment. Not only does the Titan Plus feature a firmer feel, but the mattress is specially designed for larger sleepers.
Patrick, one of our plus-sized reviewers, was quick to believe in the Titan Plus’s powers. He described it as “unlike many mattresses that I have tried,” in that it evenly distributed his weight over the entire surface of the bed. “I feel extremely comfortable,” he concluded.
What’s the Titan Plus Mattress Made Of?
The Titan Plus is 11 inches tall with four total layers—or five, if you add a cooling cover.
This hybrid model features a quilted pillow top with an inch of gel memory foam inside to provide pressure relief as you lie on the bed. The Titan Plus also contains premium proprietary materials, such as TitanFlex™ foam for a responsive surface and close to 1,000 TitanCaliber™ coils for specialized support.
Heavier sleepers seeking quality support should appreciate these industrial-strength coils. They’re individually wrapped in fabric to minimize motion transfer, and allow easy airflow for anyone prone to overheating during the night.
At the base is a two-inch layer of high-density foam that gives the mattress durability and stability while providing added support to the coil unit.
As for the cover, you can choose between a standard mattress top or a GlacioTex™ cooling cover, which will add a fee to your order but boasts enhanced temperature-regulating abilities.
Our Take: “This mattress feels supportive enough that I don’t feel stuck at all.” – Patrick, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- High weight capacity – The Titan Plus’s weight capacity is an impressive 1,000 pounds, so it’s a great fit for plus-size couples. “Those coils are extra strong,” Patrick remarked.
- For plus-sized sleepers in all positions – The combination of supportive foam and extra-strength coils means that this bed encourages healthy spinal alignment for larger people in most sleeping positions. Even if you’re a heavy side sleeper, “there is little to no pressure build-up,” said Patrick. “I would actually say that this mattress relieves pressure while [I’m lying on my side].”
Potential Drawbacks
- Too hard for smaller sleepers – People with petite frames may think this bed is uncomfortably firm.
- There’s a little sink at the surface – If you covet the undiluted bounciness of an innerspring mattress, you might not love the initial foam layers of this hybrid mattress. “I definitely sink in a little bit,” Patrick said.
Want more details? Read our full Titan Plus mattress review, or check out our roundup of the best mattresses for heavy people.
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
With coils and foam layers, this Bear mattress offers zoned support without taking away from the pressure-relieving properties. The bed also has copper infusions to ensure the best cooling for hot sleepers and athletes.
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
With coils and foam layers, this Bear mattress offers zoned support without taking away from the pressure-relieving properties. The bed also has copper infusions to ensure the best cooling for hot sleepers and athletes.
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
With coils and foam layers, this Bear mattress offers zoned support without taking away from the pressure-relieving properties. The bed also has copper infusions to ensure the best cooling for hot sleepers and athletes.
Read Full Review
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Why the Bear Elite Hybrid Earned Best Firm Mattress for Back Sleepers
I rated the Bear Elite Hybrid between a 6 and 7 on our firmness scale, which is a great feel for back sleepers. In fact, from my review, I thought the feel of this bed could be particularly nice for back sleepers, I feel slightly on top of the bed. It’s nice! I’m not a back sleeper but I’d sleep on my back on this bed.
Another significant perk for back sleepers: this mattress features stronger coils in the center of its spring unit, providing extra support to the lower back.
What’s the Bear Elite Hybrid Made Of?
As a hybrid, the Bear Elite features foams and innerspring coils in its construction. It’s 14 inches high and includes five total layers. You can also specify which firmness level you’d like to order: Firm, Medium, or Soft.
The Bear Elite Hybrid’s cover is a major selling point. It’s made with Celliant®—a textile that allegedly transfers infrared energy to the body, thereby helping its tissues to recover after a day of exercise or activity. What’s more, it also incorporates Phase Change Material (or PCM), which can help to quickly cool you down when excess heat accumulates.
Under the cover is a layer of copper-infused memory foam. This material helps with temperature regulation at the same time as it relieves pressure from taxed joints. It’s followed by a layer of transitional foam that both supports and contours to your frame.
Next, the hybrid’s zoned coil unit presses back against key areas with targeted amounts of resistance. The coils in its center offer more lift to the sensitive lumbar region, and the springs around its perimeter are reinforced for edge support. The coil unit sits on top of a high-density foam base.
Our Take: “Sleepers with back, hip, or shoulder pain will love the zoned coil system. It is built to relieve pressure in the areas you sleep on and support the areas that need a little extra boost, specifically the lumbar area.” – Stuart, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
What We Liked
- Cooling features you can feel – The Bear Elite Hybrid creates a cool sleep space thanks to its cooling cover and memory foam infused with copper (a natural heat conductor). During his review of the mattress, Stuart shared that he could immediately feel its cooling capabilities.
- Edge support that’s ideal for couples – “The edges are extra-reinforced by the zoned coil system, so you can really take advantage of the entire surface of the bed,” said Stuart. “This bed is great for couples.”
Potential Drawbacks
- Stomach sleepers might sink – We think the Bear Elite Hybrid offers a great feel for back sleeping, but dedicated stomach sleepers may experience this bed as too soft. “The pillow top may still be a little plusher than hardcore stomach sleepers prefer,” Stuart commented.
- Not the most affordable Bear bed – As an upgraded model, the Bear Elite Hybrid will cost more than other Bear mattresses.
Want to read more? Visit our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review, or check out our roundup of the best mattresses for back sleepers.
Firm Mattress Benefits
Firm mattresses are suitable for sleepers who may sink into the middle layers of softer mattresses and miss out on all the contouring that the upper layers should offer. When you sink too far into a mattress, or “bottom out”, you may experience pain from the curve in your spine and a lack of support. Firmer beds come with unique benefits that could create a positive change in sleeping habits.
- Firm mattresses are more comfortable for some
While it may seem like you can never have too much cushioning, too much of a good thing can hurt you. Firmer mattresses offer the perfect amount of support for the right type of sleeper. Those who experience lower back pain, neck stiffness, or joint issues could benefit, but those who struggle with shoulder and hip pain from side sleeping may want a softer model.
Read Our Full Guide: Best Mattresses for Back Pain
- Deeper rest
You would never be able to get proper rest if your mattress is overly soft or if it’s sagging in certain sleep positions, such as on the stomach or back. With this in mind, a proper bed with the necessary amount of firmness will comprehensively align your spine, inducing a state of great relaxation.
- Excellent spinal alignment
If there is one thing that you should consider when picking a mattress, it’s spinal alignment. A firm bed can significantly help with this if used for the proper positions. Good spinal alignment is a vital component of preventing back pain. If you are having trouble with poor spinal alignment, check out our list of best mattresses for spinal stenosis.
- Proper distribution of weight
A firm model offers splendid overall weight distribution, which can alleviate a lot of pressure points between the body and the bed.
Types of Firm Mattresses
Shoppers have their pick of different mattress types when searching for a firm mattress.
Firm Innerspring Mattresses
The innerspring mattress is the oldest, most traditional type on the market. Innerspring beds typically contain an interconnected coil unit and a thin layer of cushioning on top. Because of their construction, these beds are inherently firm already since they don’t have much cushioning to them.
Firm Hybrid Mattresses
A hybrid mattress contains several foam layers on top of an innerspring unit, though some include additional foam at the base. While traditional innerspring beds have minimal cushioning, hybrids input softer, thicker comfort layers on top. The firmness of a hybrid can vary depending on the manufacturer’s design, though you should be able to find a firm hybrid bed.
Firm Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses contain latex foam that’s either natural, synthetic, or blended. They may also contain other foams or coils in their construction. Latex mattresses are known for being an eco-friendly alternative that offers great bounce and cooling. Certain latex beds are firmer than others depending on the design.
Firm Foam Mattresses
Foam beds include poly foam and memory foam. The firmness of these foams depends on the manufacturer’s design, as well as where the material is located in the mattress. Many foam beds contain softer memory foam on top with dense poly foam at the base. Companies produce foam mattresses in varying firmness levels.
Who Should Sleep on a Firm Bed?
One of the first things that you want to consider is what kind of sleepers benefit the most from a good firm option. If you usually sleep on your back or your stomach – you may fall into that category. At the same time, if you are heavier in weight or sleep hot at night, a firm mattress can allow you to sleep more on top of the layers rather than in them.
Back Sleepers
Those looking for the best mattresses for back sleepers require firm, elevated support in the lower back region. This keeps your spine in proper alignment, preventing sagging in the mattress that may lead to lower back pain.
Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleepers also benefit from a hard mattress for reasons that are quite similar. If you prefer belly sleeping, you should consider a unit that will prevent your pelvis from sinking right into it in order to prevent poor spine alignment.
Hot Sleepers
Hot sleepers may also find a great fit with harder beds. A firmer mattress will keep you on top of the bed rather than feeling like you’re inside it. As a result, this should help you feel cooler and less confined. This, along with built-in cooling features, could make a significant difference for people prone to overheating at night.
Looking for more cooling mattresses? Explore our picks for the best cooling mattresses.
Heavyweight Sleepers
Heavier sleepers are typically better suited for firmer beds with highly-supportive layers. Dense support layers are often helpful in preventing larger sleepers from bottoming out and hindering their spinal alignment.
Check out our picks for the best mattresses for heavy people.
Who Shouldn’t Sleep on a Firm Bed?
Conversely, some people shouldn’t get a hard bed because they may feel more discomfort on them.
Side Sleepers
Side sleepers probably wouldn’t appreciate the extra firmness. While sleeping on your side, you exert a lot more pressure on a concentrated surface. If the bed doesn’t contour your body and sink appropriately, you can start experiencing pain in your shoulders and lower back.
Lightweight Sleepers
People who are lighter in weight (130 pounds or less) should also stay away from hard beds. Lightweight sleepers wouldn’t be able to exert enough pressure on the bed to sink and relieve their pressure points, which could end up causing more discomfort throughout the night.
What to Consider When Buying a Firm Mattress
As you search online, there are a few guidelines you can use to help find something you will be comfortable with for years to come.
Firmness
There is a wide range of mattress firmness levels. We’ve decided to focus on those who score on the higher end of the scale.
Typically, for a mattress to be above the average, it has to be medium-firm, firm, and extra firm. These all have different purposes.
For instance, medium-firm beds are preferred by the vast majority of sleepers. Firm ones would feel slightly tougher in comparison, and the firmest ones are very sturdy.
Medium-firm beds are typically great for back sleepers while extra-firm ones can be used by stomach sleepers or heavyweight sleepers. The added firmness can help guarantee the necessary support.
Material
There are different types of materials that you can go for when shopping for a new bed. The four most common mattress types are memory foam, latex, hybrid, and innerspring. Many companies offer varying firmness levels in different types of beds, but some designs are naturally going to be firmer because of the specific materials.
If you are a fan of memory foam mattresses, you could have a harder time finding a firm, let alone an extra firm bed. This is due to the natural properties of the material.
On the other hand, innerspring and latex materials are generally more responsive, and they can make it easier for the mattress to be firm. They are the predominant materials for most extra-firm solutions just for that reason.
Interested in exploring further? Follow our guide for different types of mattress materials.
Edge Support
Good edge support allows you to feel equally supported along the perimeter, a beneficial feature for couples or anyone who wants more surface space use. Sturdy edge support also allows you to feel comfortable if you regularly sit on the side of your bed to change or put on shoes.
The good news here is that firmer beds tend to perform well for edge support. In some cases, couples may be able to just get a bigger mattress if they need more space, but with a firmer mattress, you shouldn’t have to worry about feeling supported on the sides.
Body Weight
Your body weight will also be a factor in deciding whether a firmer bed is right for you. Typically, firm mattresses are recommended for the heaviest sleepers because they can help prevent them from bottoming out through the layers. Some average-weight sleepers may enjoy firm beds if they regularly lie on their stomachs or want firmer support in the back sleeping posture.
On the flip side, lightweight individuals won’t like these beds because they’re too rigid to provide them with any pressure relief. A lightweight stomach sleeper may do okay on a medium-firm bed, though, and they can test this out during the at-home trial period.
Explore our picks for the best mattresses for heavy sleepers.
Temperature Regulation
Temperature regulation is one of the most commonly underestimated characteristics and also one of the most important ones for many people. The airflow that your mattress allows largely determines the overall temperature of the unit.
The last thing you’d want is to wake up sweating through the night because you’ve picked a unit that retains a substantial amount of heat. Overall, a cooler bed is attributed to better sleep and proper rest. Innerspring, hybrid, and latex mattresses sleep the coolest. However, many companies use cooling gels to mitigate heat in memory foam beds as well.
The good news for hot sleepers is that the firmer feel allows you to be more on top of the mattress as opposed to in it. As a result, this should further help with temperature control.
View Our Full Guide: Best Cooling Mattresses
Motion Isolation
Motion isolation refers to the bed’s ability to keep the movement from transferring across the bed. This is often another big concern for couples who want to avoid being disturbed by the other person’s movements. Memory foam beds containing all-foam layers usually perform best. Hybrids may have some motion transfer, but most of them have pocketed coils to manage this. Additionally, hybrid models with memory foam on top will further help with motion isolation. Innerspring and latex beds typically provide the least amount of motion isolation.
Pressure Relief
Pressure relief is the bed’s ability to alleviate discomfort in common pressure points like the hips and shoulders. Mattresses typically provide this through comfort layers and materials like memory foam and latex that are designed to cradle the sleeper to melt away pressure build-up. Because firmer beds don’t allow you to sink in as much, they may not provide as much pressure relief. However, medium-firm beds are often a great solution because they can still deliver good pressure relief.
Feeling pressure in the hips or shoulders? Explore our top picks for the best mattresses for hip and shoulder pain.
Sagging
Sagging in firmer mattresses could be a serious issue for sleepers. In certain situations, excessive sagging is caused by the low quality of the material. That’s why we recommend making no compromises if you’re going to buy a firm bed.
Old mattresses, however, may no longer have the material or structural integrity to deliver the necessary amount of support. Keep in mind that the average useful lifespan for the majority of beds will range between 7 and ten years. Of course, there are a lot of factors that might affect and alter this such as usage, body type, and maintenance.
Get More Info: 7 Signs You're Sleeping On a Bad Mattress
Price
Your budget will also factor into your decision on which bed to get. The materials used in the mattress and whether they’re good quality will impact the price.
Innerspring beds, which are usually one of the firmness types, are also some of the cheapest to get. Latex is another style that can offer good firmness, but because it’s a more top-of-the-line material, it will cost more. This is especially true for all-natural latex beds.
Hybrids are another mattress type that can offer substantial firmness depending on the model, but these can be more expensive due to their advanced design. Firmer memory foam mattresses may be a higher investment, especially if the foam contains cooling properties too.
Something to remember, though, is that online shopping is a great way to save on premium mattresses. The direct-to-consumer sales model cuts out middle-men costs so shoppers don’t have to pay as much as they might in-store. Additionally, you can view our picks for the best cheap mattresses.
How to Make a Mattress Firmer
If you want to make your mattress firmer without investing in a whole new bed, you can get creative—and save money—by utilizing these tips and accessories.
Change Your Frame
Altering the support structure around your mattress can make a big difference in its feel. You might need a new bed frame with more slats or base materials beneath the bottom of the mattress, or you could even try laying your mattress on the floor.
Change Your Foundation
If you’ve been using a box spring or a similar foundation, try replacing it. Like mattresses, these foundations can wear out and sag over time.
Investigate Why Your Mattress May Have Softened
If your mattress started out firmer than it is now, then you may be able to regain some of its former feel. You could check its layers to see if any of them are underperforming, and potentially replace them if the bed allows for it.
You might also try airing out your mattress in an effort to rid it of absorbed moisture (and any accumulated germs).
Get Firm Pillows
Firm pillows could help compensate for the pressure points that sink into your current mattress. For example, if you’re a stomach sleeper and your pelvis dips too far, causing back problems, try placing a pillow under your hips to level out your spine.
Use a Firm Mattress Topper
Firm mattress toppers are an excellent way to adjust your bed’s feel for hundreds of dollars less than the cost of a new mattress. Toppers are usually available in standard mattress sizes to fit the dimensions of your bed. To create a harder surface, look for toppers that are listed specifically as firm.
Firm Mattress FAQs
What's the firmest type of mattress?
Latex mattresses and innerspring mattresses tend to feel firmer than other types. However, any type of mattress can be constructed for standout firmness, including memory foam models. The firmest mattresses don’t have plush tops or especially soft comfort layers. Rather, they prioritize robust support materials that keep the body from sinking into the bed.
What is a medium-firm mattress?
The best medium-firm mattresses provide a good balance of pressure relief and support to most sleepers. You want a bed that is soft enough to cushion the places where the body tends to develop pressure when lying down, but you also want a bed with enough support in place to keep your weight resting evenly. This blend is not the same for everyone or every sleeping position, but medium-firm tends to accommodate most sleepers in most positions.
Mattress manufacturers looking to capture the largest market for their brand aim for this firmness because it tends to be the most versatile feel across the largest population of body types.
You should also keep in mind that not every sleeper will experience a bed in the same way, and what feels medium-firm for one person might feel firmer to someone lighter than average. Likewise, someone significantly heavier might experience a medium-firm bed as softer.
How good is a firm mattress for back pain?
A firm mattress is great for those who have back pain because it can help keep the spine in a healthy, neutral posture. Poor back posture during sleep can cause or worsen back pain, so good support is vital for this.
What is the best firm mattress?
The best firm mattress depends on individual preference. For some, the extra-firm types are ideal while others may feel most comfortable on a medium-firm option. You’ll also have to consider other important features the bed provides, such as materials, cooling, edge support, motion isolation, and bounce.
What is the difference between firmness and support?
The firmness of a mattress refers to how soft or hard it feels when you lie down, whereas support refers to the bed’s ability to keep your spine in optimal alignment. Firmness may be able to enhance the bed’s overall ability to keep you supported, but ultimately, these are two different performance features.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many factors that you should account for when purchasing a firm mattress. By doing so, you’re placing yourself in a better position to find a truly great mattress that meets your needs.
Your mattress is one of the most critical requirements for a good night’s sleep. Make sure that you’re aware of the specifications so that you can conveniently make an informed and adequate decision based on your sleeping patterns, preferences, and requirements.
Julia Forbes
Sources and References:
- The influence of bed firmness on sleep quality – ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Mattress Guidelines for Sleep Comfort – spine-health.com
