Close Search

Transparency Disclosure — We may receive a referral fee for products purchased through the links on our site…Read More.

Best Medium-Firm Mattress

Last Updated on July 26, 2024

Written by Julia Forbes

Julia Forbes

Written by Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester

Our Testing Process

Here at Sleep Advisor, our Sleep Certified experts use a refined mattress and product testing process to give you unbiased product suggestions… Read our full product review process.

In This Article

For many people, a medium-firm bed occupies the “Goldilocks zone” for comfort: not too hard, not too soft. Here, I’ll cover the best medium-firm mattresses and the advantages of this firmness level.

If you’ve been mattress-shopping for a while, you’ve probably encountered multiple brands that brag about the medium-firm feel of their beds. But why is medium-firm such a desirable firmness level? And what exactly qualifies a mattress’s feel as medium-firm?

To answer the first question, a bed that’s neither too hard nor too soft has an ideal balance of comfort to support. A medium-firm mattress often represents the most harmonious mix of these elements. It’s not overly plush—so your spine stays lifted and aligned—and it’s not too rock-like, so you get a nice amount of cushion.

Furthermore, this middle-of-the-road firmness level appeals to the widest range of sleepers. It may even accommodate people who share a bed but have slightly different firmness preferences.

At Sleep Advisor, we rank a mattress’s firmness on a scale from 1 to 10, progressing from very soft to very firm. A medium-firm bed falls between 5 to 7 on this scale. Below, I’ve collected the best medium-firm mattresses we’ve tested and reviewed so far.

Best Medium-Firm Mattresses

Our Video Review of the Best Medium-Firm Mattresses

Compare Medium-Firm Beds

Helix Midnight Mattress Nectar Mattress DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress Nolah Signature 12 Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Bear Star Hybrid Mattress Birch Natural Mattress
Helix Midnight Mattress Nectar Mattress DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Bear Star Hybrid Mattress Birch Natural Mattress
Rating
4.5
4.7
4.1
4.8
4.9
4.8
4.7
4.7
4.8
Firmness Medium-firm: 6/10 Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Medium: 5.5/10 Medium: 5.5/10 Medium: 5.5/10 Soft: 4/10 Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Medium-firm: 6/10 Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Material Hybrid Foam Foam Latex Hybrid Foam Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid
Cooling — — — — — —
Warranty 10-year warranty Lifetime warranty Forever Warranty Lifetime warranty 10-year warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime warranty 25-year warranty
Shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping minus HI and AK Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free white glove delivery Free shipping Free shipping
Trial Period 100 nights 365 nights 365 nights 120 nights 120 nights 120 nights 365 Nights 120 nights 100 nights
Best For Couples, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Joint Pain Couples, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers Side Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Couples Side Sleepers, Back Pain Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers Joint Pain, Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors

How We Chose the Best Medium-Firm Mattresses

We test mattresses in person at our studio, scoring them across a variety of performance categories.

As one of the site’s lead product testers, I’ve lied on top of (and rolled around on, and napped on, and jumped on…) more mattresses than I can count. But because a person’s body type and preferred sleeping position can affect their experience of a bed, I don’t test these beds alone—I’m joined by other reviewers who offer a variety of perspectives.

When picking out the best medium-firm mattresses, we focused on beds that sat in the middle of our firmness scale and chose our favorites based on a few key properties.

Methodology Image- Sleep Advisor
As the lead product tester, I test mattresses every week!

What We Want to See in a Medium-Firm Bed

When you’re shopping for a medium-firm mattress, keep the following features at the top of your mind:

Firmness Level Between 5 and 7

If 1 is softer than a cotton ball, and 10 is harder than a slab of stone, you want a mattress that’s between a 5 and a 7. This may seem to skew firm rather than plush, but keep in mind that we rarely recommend mattresses that feel softer than a 4 or so—these beds are too soft, and will cause you to sink so low that your skeleton isn’t properly supported.

Broad Appeal

A quality medium-firm mattress should feel good to a wide range of people, even those with different comfort preferences. We often suggest medium-firm beds to couples who are struggling to align their visions for an ideal sleep space. A healthy mattress firmness is like a healthy marriage: it’s all about adaptability and compromise.

Consistent, Durable Comfort

A medium-firm mattress hardly qualifies as medium-firm if it starts to sag soon after you buy it. You’ll want a bed that retains its initial firmness over years of use, so look for durable materials, positive customer reviews, and policies that ensure a long-lived product. Lengthy sleep trials and warranties are both good signs.

The Best Medium-Firm Mattresses

Helix Midnight – Editor’s Pick

Well-Tailored, Balanced Hybrid

Helix Midnight Mattress

Helix Midnight Mattress

Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.

Score 4.0/5
Read Helix Midnight Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagUse code JULY25 and save 25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchaseFourth of July Sale-Extended

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

100 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

Warranty

10-year warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
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.

Visit Helix
Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Well-Tailored, Balanced Hybrid

Helix Midnight Mattress

Helix Midnight Mattress

Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.

Score 4.0/5
Read Helix Midnight Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagUse code JULY25 and save 25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchaseFourth of July Sale-Extended

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

10-year warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

100 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
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.

Visit Helix
Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Helix Midnight Mattress
Well-Tailored, Balanced Hybrid

Helix Midnight Mattress

Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.

Score 4.0/5
Read Helix Midnight Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagUse code JULY25 and save 25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchaseFourth of July Sale-Extended

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

Trial Period

100 nights

Warranty

10-year warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
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.

Visit Helix
Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Firmness LevelMattress TypeBest For
6HybridBack and Side Sleepers

Why the Helix Midnight Earned Best Medium-Firm Mattress Overall

The Helix Midnight is a medium-firm mattress designed with side sleepers in mind, so you may be surprised to see it at the top of our list. However, I’ve found that the Helix Midnight works for a swath of different sleepers, no thanks to that trusty medium-firmness.

How does that work? Well, the foam layers on top contour to the body, relieving pressure around sensitive areas. Plus, the individually wrapped coils provide support and bounce, so you can still feel comfortable in all sleep positions and switch between them with ease.

Helix Midnight Mattress in the Sleep Advisor studio
The Helix Midnight in our testing studio.

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“This hybrid pulls together memory foam layers with pocketed coils, which is a winning combination with a 6/10 medium-firm feel. You got awesome pressure relief from the top three foam layers that contour to the body, along with excellent spine alignment support from those coils pushing you up below.”

Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester

What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?

We ranked the Helix Midnight at a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale, what we call “true” medium-firm. The support is even throughout the surface of the bed, even with the nice upper cushion from the foams.

What’s the Helix Midnight Made Of?

The Helix Midnight is 11.5 inches tall. All foams used in its construction are CertiPUR-US® certified.

Inside the Helix Midnight

  • Layer 1 – Cover. Helix offers two covers, so you can choose between a standard breathable knitted one or upgrade to the cooling GlacioTex™ cover, depending on how hot you sleep.

  • Layer 2 – Memory Plus Foam. The first layer of foam promotes pressure relief.

  • Layer 3 – Helix Responsive Foam. This medium-feel foam conforms to your body for comfortable contouring.

  • Layer 4 – Helix Responsive Foam. The second layer of responsive foam helps to maintain support  as it transitions into the coil layer below.

  • Layer 5 – Coil Unit. Wrapped coils respond individually to your movements to keep you lifted while preventing motion transfer.

  • Layer 6 – DuraDense Foam. A final layer of dense foam rounds out the mattress.

What I Liked
Soft support – The Helix Midnight does an expert job at balancing softness with support, thanks to its strong coils and plush foams.
Isolates motion well – Despite the bouncy effect of the coils, we were surprised by this bed’s ability to keep movement from traveling across its surface.
Potential Drawbacks
Not for stomach sleepers – Our testers thought the Midnight was a little too soft to properly support folks who sleep on their stomach, suggesting they go for something firmer.
No hugging foams – The foams on top of the Helix Midnight provide some cushioning, but nothing at the level of an all-foam mattress. No swaddling here.

Customer Reviews of The Helix Midnight

The Helix Midnight rates 4.5 stars out of 5 on Helix’s website. The main negative is that reviewers tend to find it too soft for their liking and feel as though they’re sinking. But overall, users say they’re getting a great nights’ sleep and some pain relief.

Want to see more? Read our complete Helix Midnight mattress review or check out our picks for the best mattresses of 2024.

Read More

Nectar Mattress – Best Affordable Medium-Firm Mattress

Cushioning Foam on a Budget

Nectar Mattress

Nectar Mattress

Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nectar Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagUp to 50% Off MattressesNectar Sleep Flash Sale

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.

Visit Nectar
Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Cushioning Foam on a Budget

Nectar Mattress

Nectar Mattress

Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nectar Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagUp to 50% Off MattressesNectar Sleep Flash Sale

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.

Visit Nectar
Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Nectar Mattress
Cushioning Foam on a Budget

Nectar Mattress

Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nectar Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagUp to 50% Off MattressesNectar Sleep Flash Sale

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.

Visit Nectar
Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Firmness LevelMattress TypeBest For
6.5Memory FoamSide and Back Sleepers

Why the Nectar Mattress Earned Best Affordable Medium-Firm Mattress

If you’re looking for a high-quality memory foam mattress that won’t break the bank, Nectar is a tempting option at just over $1,000 for their flagship queen mattress. Its industry-leading year-long sleep trial and lifetime warranty only sweeten the deal.

As a memory foam bed, you can also expect plenty of comfort on the Nectar as well. In fact, I gave it a 4 out of 5 rating for both pressure relief and support. This complements the medium-firm feel that should be able to accommodate most sleepers.

Back sleeping on the Nectar mattress.

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“You really can’t beat everything that Nectar is bringing to the table, especially for that price point and the fact that it’s using quality materials too. Can’t beat it. The medium-firm feel really does a good job of staying not too soft or overly rigid.”

Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester

What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?

The Nectar’s all-foam construction rounds out to a 6.5 out of 10 on our scale, right in the medium-firm ballpark. This mid-range feel should work for most sleepers looking for an affordable memory foam mattress.

What’s the Nectar Mattress Made Of?

The Nectar is a memory foam mattress that stands 12 inches tall and features a Tencel™ cover with a circular knit pattern and moisture-wicking technology.

Inside the Nectar Mattress

      • Layer 1 – Gel-Infused Memory Foam. This layer is 2 inches tall, allowing you to sink a little for pressure relief. 
      • Layer 2 – Soft Premium Foam. This part of the Nectar Original is 3 inches tall and meant to act as the transition layer. It helps with weight distribution and adds bounce, making the mattress pretty responsive towards the top.
      • Layer 3 – Standard Conventional Foam. The base layer is 7 inches tall and has a higher density to provide structure and durability. 

What I Liked
Sensitive sleepers rest easy – The Nectar’s all-foam design gives it exceptional motion isolation, so sharing the bed shouldn’t be a problem.
Dreamy policies – Nectar offers a generous 365-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty with your purchase.
Potential Drawbacks
Some sleepers need more support – The Nectar’s positive qualities don’t eclipse the fact that it’s not built for heavier folks or stomach sleepers.
Cooling doesn’t stand out – I felt perfectly pleasant as I tested the Nectar, but I didn’t notice any active cooling taking place.

Customer Reviews of The Nectar Mattress

With more than 52,000 reviews on Nectar’s website, the Nectar mattress has an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars. One common customer complaint about the Nectar mattress is its longer-than-average break-in period, while many customers praise its excellent value and comfort once fully settled.

Looking for more? Check out our Nectar review or our expert-recommended best budget mattresses.

Read More

DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam – Best Medium-Firm Memory Foam Mattress

Luxury Feel, Sumptuous Pressure Relief

DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam

DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam Mattress product image

The DreamCloud Premier Memory foam mattress offers luxury pressure point relief at an affordable price.

Score 4.1/5
Read DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam Review
CHECK PRICE
price tag50% Off All MattressesSummer Spectacular

Material

Foam

Trial Period

365 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping minus HI and AK

Firmness

Medium: 5.5/10

Warranty

Forever Warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit DreamCloud
Average Customer Rating
4.1/5
Luxury Feel, Sumptuous Pressure Relief

DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam

DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam Mattress product image

The DreamCloud Premier Memory foam mattress offers luxury pressure point relief at an affordable price.

Score 4.1/5
Read DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam Review
CHECK PRICE
price tag50% Off All MattressesSummer Spectacular

Material

Foam

Warranty

Forever Warranty

Firmness

Medium: 5.5/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping minus HI and AK

Trial Period

365 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit DreamCloud
Average Customer Rating
4.1/5
DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam Mattress product image
Luxury Feel, Sumptuous Pressure Relief

DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam

The DreamCloud Premier Memory foam mattress offers luxury pressure point relief at an affordable price.

Score 4.1/5
Read DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam Review
CHECK PRICE
price tag50% Off All MattressesSummer Spectacular

Material

Foam

Firmness

Medium: 5.5/10

Trial Period

365 nights

Warranty

Forever Warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping minus HI and AK

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit DreamCloud
Average Customer Rating
4.1/5
Firmness LevelMattress TypeBest For
5.5Memory FoamAll Sleeping Positions

Why the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam Earned Best Medium-Firm Memory Foam Mattress

Some folks love the sumptuous sink that memory foam offers—and good news, there are plenty of medium-firm all-foam beds. The DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam stands out, though. This all-foam edition of DreamCloud’s higher-end line is on the plusher side, though still medium firm, to address a variety of sleepers’ needs.

If you want pressure relief, this bed has it. If you want to feel “hugged” by your mattress, this bed has it. It’s an all-around great choice for memory foam fans.

Julia Forbes of Sleep Advisor testing DreamCloud Premier Rest Foam mattress
Testing motion isolation on the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam with a “partner.”

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“It provides exceptional spine alignment, especially for my side and back sleepers. The extra cushion at the surface hugs to your body’s unique shape and keeps everything lifted. Pressure relief, perfect score, gold star, gold medal, you name it.”

Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester

What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?

The cushioning foam construction puts the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam at a 5.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale. This is on the softer side of medium-firm and should especially suit side and back sleepers looking for a more cradling feel.

What’s the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam Made Of?

The DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam is made up of 7 total layers in its 13-inch construction.

Inside the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam
  • Layer 1 – Cashmere Cushion Cover. A luxurious cashmere blend that is both comfortable and cooling.
  • Layer 2 – Quilted Gel Memory Foam. This foam layer allows the cover of the mattress to contour to the shape of your body, with added gel to keep cool.
  • Layer 3 – Quilted Support Foam. Another layer of more supportive foam bolsters the cover’s ability to cushion without sagging.
  • Layer 4 – Therapeutic Gel Memory Foam. Another thicker layer of gel memory foam provides pressure relief as you sink into the mattress.
  • Layer 5 – Dynamic Transition Layer. This layer acts as a buffer between the comfort layers and the strong support base below.
  • Layer 6 – Stability Base Layer. An 8-inch thick layer of standard foam creates the foundational support for the mattress.
  • Layer 7 – Lower Cover. Finally, a cover on the bottom half of the mattress keeps everything in place. It also has handles for easier transportation. 
What I Liked
Pressure relief hero – Have I said this enough? Probably, but this bed really is great for folks with sensitive joints who need extra cradling and pressure relief.
Versatile – This same pressure relief remains regardless of sleeping position, even though we tout it as best for side and back sleepers.
Potential Drawbacks
Not the coolest – The temperature regulation leaves something to be desired on this bed, as I didn’t feel any effect from the cooling gel in the foams.
Too soft for heavy sleepers – Unfortunately, folks over 230 pounds may have a hard time getting comfortable on this bed’s pillowy surface.

Customer Reviews of The DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam

The DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam scores a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars from customers who left more than 5,000 reviews on its website. For the most part, the customers loved its comforting and cradling feel, but some pointed out that it’s not as firm as they expected.

Want to see more? Read our complete DreamCloud Premier mattress review review or check out our picks for the best luxury mattresses.

Read More

WinkBeds EcoCloud – Best Medium-Firm Cooling Mattress

Eco-Conscious, Sturdy, & Comfortable

WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress

WinkBeds EcoCloud mattress in the Sleep Advisor Studio

The EcoCloud by Winkbed provides a premium experience With some of the most natural materials in the bedding industry!

Score 4.0/5
Read WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagGet $300 off all our award winning mattressesSummer Sale

Material

Latex

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium: 5.5/10

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit WinkBeds
Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Eco-Conscious, Sturdy, & Comfortable

WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress

WinkBeds EcoCloud mattress in the Sleep Advisor Studio

The EcoCloud by Winkbed provides a premium experience With some of the most natural materials in the bedding industry!

Score 4.0/5
Read WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagGet $300 off all our award winning mattressesSummer Sale

Material

Latex

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Medium: 5.5/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit WinkBeds
Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
WinkBeds EcoCloud mattress in the Sleep Advisor Studio
Eco-Conscious, Sturdy, & Comfortable

WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress

The EcoCloud by Winkbed provides a premium experience With some of the most natural materials in the bedding industry!

Score 4.0/5
Read WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagGet $300 off all our award winning mattressesSummer Sale

Material

Latex

Firmness

Medium: 5.5/10

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit WinkBeds
Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Firmness LevelMattress TypeBest For
6Latex HybridSide Sleepers

Why the WinkBeds EcoCloud Earned Best Medium-Firm Cooling Mattress

The WinkBeds EcoCloud is a medium-firm hybrid bed that provides targeted support and weight distribution across multiple zones. If you’re a hot sleeper, though, you’ll probably be most interested in its cooling capabilities.

This mattress is naturally ventilated, thanks to its construction and materials. The top layers have heat-wicking properties, which help pull heat away from your body and keep the bed’s surface cool to the touch. The bed also features Talalay latex and pocketed coils, both of which promote cooling and airflow. 

WinkBeds EcoCloud side view
The EcoCloud set up in our studio.

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“It’s designed to put firmer support around the lower back, and you stay nice and softly supported everywhere else. Think buoyant, and not in a waterbed overkill kind of way.”

Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester

What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?

The EcoCloud is a 5.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale, so it’s a medium-firm bed with a nice amount of initial softness to it.

What’s the EcoCloud Made Of?

The EcoCloud stands 12.5 inches tall.

Inside the WinkBeds EcoCloud

  • Layer 1 – Cover. The cover is made from organic cotton and New Zealand Wool, a combination that should keep you cool thanks to these materials’ natural breathability..

  • Layer 2 – Talalay Latex (4 inches). Textured latex provides bounce and cushion alongside balanced support and pressure relief across your body.

  • Layer 3 – Innerspring System (8.5 inches). Recycled steel coils adapt to your weight and movements to ensure you’re lifted in all the right places. Firmer coils reinforce the perimeter for stronger edges.

What I Liked
Earth-friendly – The EcoCloud boasts certifications for sustainability and contains a number of organic, naturally derived, and hypoallergenic materials that should appeal to the environmentally conscious.
Bouncy – The latex layer in the EcoCloud adapts to your movement, making this hybrid a good option if you change positions often.
Potential Drawbacks
Not for memory-foam fans – Latex has a uniquely bouncy feel that greatly differs from that of memory foam; it’s more bouncy than cradling.
Motion carries – During testing, the EcoCloud did just okay when it came to motion isolation, so it isn’t the best choice for light sleepers with restless partners.

Customer Reviews of The WinkBeds EcoCloud

At 4.8 out of 5 stars on WinkBed’s site, the EcoCloud has an overwhelmingly positive response. Customers appreciate the eco-friendly materials used in the WinkBed EcoCloud mattress but have noted that the price point may be higher than some competitors.

Want to see more? Read our complete WinkBeds EcoCloud bed review or check out our best mattresses for hot sleepers for more options.

Read More

Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite – Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Back Pain

High-Quality, Cooling, & Cushioning Hybrid

Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress

brooklyn sedona product

This hand-crafted hybrid model should deliver a premium sleeping experience.

Score 4.0/5
Read Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagUse code SUMMER25 and save 25% off sitewideSummer Sale

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium: 5.5/10

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.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Brooklyn Bedding
Average Customer Rating
4.9/5
Watch Our Video Review
High-Quality, Cooling, & Cushioning Hybrid

Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress

brooklyn sedona product

This hand-crafted hybrid model should deliver a premium sleeping experience.

Score 4.0/5
Read Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagUse code SUMMER25 and save 25% off sitewideSummer Sale

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

10-year warranty

Firmness

Medium: 5.5/10

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.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Brooklyn Bedding
Average Customer Rating
4.9/5
Watch Our Video Review
brooklyn sedona product
High-Quality, Cooling, & Cushioning Hybrid

Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress

This hand-crafted hybrid model should deliver a premium sleeping experience.

Score 4.0/5
Read Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagUse code SUMMER25 and save 25% off sitewideSummer Sale

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Medium: 5.5/10

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

10-year warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Brooklyn Bedding
Average Customer Rating
4.9/5
Watch Our Video Review
Firmness LevelMattress TypeBest For
5.5HybridBack and Side Sleepers

Why the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Earned Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Back Pain

The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is a hybrid mattress available in three firmness levels. The Medium model is the golden middle ground between a soft and firm feel, and a good match for sleepers suffering from back pain—they benefit most from a balance of pressure relief on top, strong support on the bottom.

You should remain properly aligned on this bed while feeling relief in areas prone to pressure buildup. Repositioning should feel easy too, thanks to its springy surface. All in all, this medium-firm bed is primed to help with back pain across a variety of sleeping positions.

Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite average back sleeper
Sleeping on my back on the Sedona Elite.

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“We noticed the Sedona Elite provided our testers with perfect spine alignment support and responsiveness. The bed also does an excellent job with pressure relief, temperature regulation, motion isolation and edge support.”

Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester

What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?

At 5.5 out of 6 on our firmness scale, the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite is on the softer side of the medium-firm spectrum. It’s what lends the bed its stellar pressure-relieving ability, but it doesn’t skimp on the support to your back.

What’s the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Made Of?

The Sedona Elite is 14 inches tall with six layers in total.

Inside the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite

    • Layer 6 – Foam Base (1 inch). – A dense foam foundation for the rest of the mattress.
      • Layer 1 – Cooling Cover. GlacioTex+ fibers ensure the surface of the bed is cool to the touch.
      • Layer 2 – Copper Memory Foam (1.5 inches). The first comfort layer is infused with copper for added cooling and antibacterial properties.
      • Layer 3 – Micro-Wrapped Coils (2.5 inches). A layer of miniature coils targets pressure relief on a more precise scale, and allows air to flow through the mattress.
      • Layer 4 – Transition Foam (1.5 inches). A dense foam layer that bolsters the support of the main coil layer.
      • Layer 5 – Ascension® Coils (8 inches). This innerspring unit features over 1,000 encased coils that should spring back with ease when you move, all while keeping motion relegated to one spot.

What I Liked
Big bounce – Two coil units means double the bounce, which should be a boon for sexually active couples or combination sleepers.
Keeps cool – Air flows through this bed with ease, but the cover keeps it cool at the surface, right where you need it most.
Potential Drawbacks
Pretty pricey – I think it’s well worth the price, but let it be known that a queen-sized Sedona Elite will cost you over $2,000 before sales or coupons.
Not for stomach sleepers – As a stomach sleeper, I feel that the Sedona Elite will be too soft to keep our hips from sinking as we lay in this position.

Customer Reviews of The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe

On Brooklyn Bedding’s website, the Sedona Elite ranks 4.8 out of 5 stars, featuring more than 300 reviews. One potential drawback of the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona mattress is its higher price point, but customers noted that it offers exceptional comfort and support, particularly for those seeking a luxury sleep experience.

Want to see more? Read our complete Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite mattress review or see our picks for the best mattress for back pain.

Read More

Nolah Signature – Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers

Melts Away Pressure

Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress

nolah signature mattress

Shoppers interested in a hybrid feel should find this Signature bed a perfect choice for their needs.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagSave 35% off + free pillows on select mattressesSummer Sale

Material

Foam

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Soft: 4/10

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Nolah
Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Melts Away Pressure

Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress

nolah signature mattress

Shoppers interested in a hybrid feel should find this Signature bed a perfect choice for their needs.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagSave 35% off + free pillows on select mattressesSummer Sale

Material

Foam

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Soft: 4/10

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.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Nolah
Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
nolah signature mattress
Melts Away Pressure

Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress

Shoppers interested in a hybrid feel should find this Signature bed a perfect choice for their needs.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagSave 35% off + free pillows on select mattressesSummer Sale

Material

Foam

Firmness

Soft: 4/10

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

Lifetime 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.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Nolah
Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Firmness LevelMattress TypeBest For
6Hybrid or FoamSide Sleepers

Why the Nolah Signature Earned Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers

While pressure build-up can occur during sleep for many reasons, resting on an uncomfortable mattress is a common one.  Thankfully, the Nolah Signature is made to tackle pressure build-up with multiple layers of specialized foams.

A mix of breathable AirFoam™, responsive foam, and dense support foam makes for a soft but supportive medium-firm profile that should suit side sleepers and those with sensitive joints.

nolah signature mattress
A full view of the Nolah Signature.

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“Apart from the approachable firmness level around a five out of ten. Air foam is designed to champion pressure relief above all else. The foam packs in microscopic air bubbles that work to give you a lightweight feel, especially around pressure points that sink into the bed. There are four layers of foam wrapped in an organic cotton cover, with the top three prioritizing airflow, pressure relief and responsiveness.”

Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester

What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?

The Nolah Signature falls at a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale, so it’s right in that medium-firm sweet spot. That said, its all-foam construction gives it a softer feel than many of the other medium-firm mattresses on this list.

What’s the Nolah Signature Made Of?

The Nolah Signature is 12 inches tall and has five layers. 

Inside the Nolah Signature

  • Layer 1 – Organic Cotton Cover. A naturally cooling and soft sleep surface.

  • Layer 2 – Plush AirFoam™ (2.5 inches). Nolah’s proprietary foam doesn’t trap as much heat as traditional foams, and this plush layer gives the bed its cushioning surface.

  • Layer 3 – Active Response Foam (1.5 inches). A breathable layer of responsive foam that bounces back according to your movements.

  • Layer 4 – Firm AirFoam™ (1 inch). A firmer layer of AirFoam™ aids in supporting the softer comfort layers.

  • Layer 5 – High-Density Foam Foundation (7 inches). A thick, sturdy base that extends the bed’s longevity.

What I Liked
Cooling for foam – The brand’s proprietary AirFoam™ does an amazing job of relieving pressure but also excels at cooling.
Dampens motion – These same foams also absorb a lot of movement, meaning restless couples should be able to toss and turn without waking their partner.
Potential Drawbacks
Lackluster edges – There’s no special reinforcement along the perimeter of the Nolah Signature, so the foam doesn’t hold up well while bearing weight.
Too soft for some – People who need firmer support, like heavier sleepers or those who prefer to lie on their stomach, may sink too far onto the Nolah Signature.

Customer Reviews of The Nolah Signature

The Nolah Signature gets a 4.8 out of 5 stars on Nolah’s website. One potential drawback of the Nolah Signature mattress is its limited firmness options, but it excels in providing exceptional pressure relief and a cooling sleep experience.

Want to see more? Read our complete Nolah Signature mattress review or check out our picks for the best mattresses for side sleepers.

Read More

Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid – Best Medium-King Firm Mattress

Soft but Supportive, Foam and Coils

Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid

Saatva memory foam hybrid mattress

This mattress from Saatva combines the pressure relief of memory foam  and the support of springs for a cooling and restful night’s sleep.

Score 4.0/5
Read Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagSave up to $60014th Anniversary Sale Extended

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

365 Nights

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Saatva
Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Soft but Supportive, Foam and Coils

Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid

Saatva memory foam hybrid mattress

This mattress from Saatva combines the pressure relief of memory foam  and the support of springs for a cooling and restful night’s sleep.

Score 4.0/5
Read Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagSave up to $60014th Anniversary Sale Extended

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Trial Period

365 Nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Saatva
Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Saatva memory foam hybrid mattress
Soft but Supportive, Foam and Coils

Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid

This mattress from Saatva combines the pressure relief of memory foam  and the support of springs for a cooling and restful night’s sleep.

Score 4.0/5
Read Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagSave up to $60014th Anniversary Sale Extended

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Trial Period

365 Nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Saatva
Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Firmness LevelMattress TypeBest For
6.5HybridBack Sleepers

Why the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Earned Best Medium-Firm King Mattress

If you’re looking for a medium-firm mattress to complement your large bedroom or live up to your royal taste, I’d recommend buying a king-size Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid. This mattress features plush foams and sturdy coils, the perfect match for the balanced comfort and support.

The springy, lifted surface is best suited to back sleepers, but some side sleepers should appreciate the pressure relief this bed can offer.

Saatva memory foam hybrid mattress
The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid set up in our studio.

The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid also boasts an endorsement from the American Chiropractic Association and a seal of approval from the Congress of Chiropractic State Association, so it’s safe to say that this bed has got your back.

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid has all of the performance aspects of a memory foam mattress, but the coils take up the support level up a few notches. The medium firmness level helps maintain enough softness for side and back sleepers to get some deep contouring and sink for pressure points, but the coils keep the spine aligned and body lifted.”

Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester

What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?

Saatva markets this bed as a medium-firm option, and we agree! We gave the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid a 6.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale, putting it right smack dab in the middle of medium-firm.

What’s the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Made Of?

The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid is about 11.5 inches tall and has six total layers.

Inside the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid

  • Cover. The breathable surface of the mattress is quilted specially to support the lower back, and is treated with an antimicrobial mask to prevent the growth of unwanted bacteria and mold.

  • Lumbar Crown. A half-inch tall crest of memory foam bolsters lumbar support, while the gel infused within it draws away excess heat.

  • Contouring Foam. This layer of AirCradle™ foam has pockets to keep air flowing as it relieves pressure.

  • Coils. Eight inches of individually wrapped coils push back to keep you lifted while responding to your movements.

  • Foam Rails. Dense foam rails along the perimeter of the mattress reinforce the edges.

  • Base. A dense foam support core acts as the bed’s foundation.

What I Liked
Has bounce – The coils underneath are super sturdy and durable, giving the surface a responsive feel that should benefit combination sleepers.
Delivery with perks – Saatva offers free white glove delivery. This means a team of experts will come set up your new mattress and even take away your old one.
Potential Drawbacks
Returns cost extra – Despite the fancy delivery, if you’re not happy with your Saatva bed, you’ll have to pay to return it—$99, to be exact.
Too soft for stomach sleepers – We think the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid is still too soft to keep stomach sleepers supported. The same is true for some heavyweight sleepers.

Customer Reviews of The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid

The Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid has around 160 reviews on Saatva’s website with a total score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid for its balanced mix of support and comfort, but some find its motion transfer noticeable, which can be a concern for couples.

Want to know more? Read our dedicated Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid review or check out the best king-size beds.

Read More

Bear Star Hybrid – Best Medium-Firm Hybrid Mattress

Built for Active Sleepers

Bear Star Hybrid Mattress

Bear Star Hybrid Mattress

The Bear Hybrid is an appealing product because it should cater to a wide variety of sleepers.

Score 3.8/5
Read Bear Star Hybrid Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagGet 35% off using code ADVISOR35Summer Savings

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

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.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Bear
Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Built for Active Sleepers

Bear Star Hybrid Mattress

Bear Star Hybrid Mattress

The Bear Hybrid is an appealing product because it should cater to a wide variety of sleepers.

Score 3.8/5
Read Bear Star Hybrid Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagGet 35% off using code ADVISOR35Summer Savings

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

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.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Bear
Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Bear Star Hybrid Mattress
Built for Active Sleepers

Bear Star Hybrid Mattress

The Bear Hybrid is an appealing product because it should cater to a wide variety of sleepers.

Score 3.8/5
Read Bear Star Hybrid Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagGet 35% off using code ADVISOR35Summer Savings

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

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.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Bear
Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Firmness LevelMattress TypeBest For
6HybridBack Sleepers

Why the Bear Star Hybrid Earned Best Medium-Firm Hybrid Mattress

Most medium-firm mattresses are hybrids because the combination of coils and foam tends to yield a medium feel. So, how do you choose a hybrid bed that stands out? Well, let me introduce you to the Bear Star Hybrid.

This bed is meant to match with athletes or active sleepers looking to wind down after a day of intense activity. Thus, it has plenty of added cooling features like its HydroCool Cover and gel foam. (For an added fee, you can get a specialized Celliant® cover, a recovery textile that reportedly converts excess heat into healing infrared energy.) Combine this with a supportive innerspring unit and stellar edge support, and it’s easy to see why this hybrid goes the extra mile.

Bear Star Hybrid Mattress Testing
Testing the Bear Star Hybrid’s edge support.

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“Its firm yet cozy feel should bridge the gap between people with somewhat different comfort preferences, and its cooling elements can help sleeping partners from overheating. This bed is also fiberglass free and eco conscious… And in a world of fiberglass, aren’t we glad this one doesn’t have it?”

Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester

What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?

We Bear Star Hybrid at a solid 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale. Some of our testers found it to be on the firmer side of medium-firm, so we think this bed is best for back sleepers who need that balance of support and cushioning.

What’s the Bear Star Hybrid Made Of?

The Bear Star Hybrid is 13 inches tall and has five layers. 

Inside the Bear Star Hybrid

    • Layer 1 – Cover. The cover has both HydroCool® technology and Celliant® fibers built-in. As such, it should stay relatively cool and may even help your body to recuperate after a day of activity. 
    • Layer 2 – Serene Gel Foam. This gel-infused foam should keep unwanted heat out while also cradling pressure points. 
    • Layer 3 – Responsive Comfort Foam. A springy foam that both relieves pressure and readily changes its shape when you move around. 
    • Layer 4 – Innersprings. Individually wrapped coils form the main support component of the bed, with stronger springs on the sides for sturdy edges. 
    • Layer 5 – High-Density Support Foam. A base layer that gives the springs a place to rest and ups the entire bed’s longevity. 

What I Liked
Cooling components throughout – A cooling cover, gel-infused foam, and springs that enable airflow all work to help keep this bed at a comfortable temperature.
The Celliant® factor – Celliant® is still being studied, but its manufacturers claim that it can hasten muscle recovery after a workout. Ostensibly, it does this by upping bloodflow to the area of your body in contact with the fibers.
Potential Drawbacks
Might be tough on side sleepers – Side sleepers, especially petite ones, need a lot of cushioning under their shoulders and hips. This mattress isn’t especially plush, so it probably won’t be the best fit for this demographic.
Not that bouncy – Hybrids are usually known for their bounce, but we were surprised to find that the upper foams seemed to dampen the bed’s responsiveness.

Customer Reviews of The Bear Star Hybrid

With a little over 60 reviews, the Star Hybrid scores approximately 4.8 out of 5 stars on Bear’s site. A potential downside is that some users may find it too firm, but the rest praised it for its strong support and cooling properties, promoting a comfortable sleep environment.

Want to see more? Read our complete Bear Star Hybrid review or check out some more options for best hybrid mattresses.

Read More

Birch Natural – Best Queen Medium-Firm Mattress

Organic, Natural, and Durable Components

Birch Natural Mattress

Birch Natural mattress in the Sleep Advisor studio

An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.

Score 4.0/5
Read Birch Natural Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagUse code JULY25 and save 25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchaseFourth of July Sale-Extended

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

100 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Warranty

25-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.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Birch
Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Organic, Natural, and Durable Components

Birch Natural Mattress

Birch Natural mattress in the Sleep Advisor studio

An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.

Score 4.0/5
Read Birch Natural Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagUse code JULY25 and save 25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchaseFourth of July Sale-Extended

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

25-year warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

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.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Birch
Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Birch Natural mattress in the Sleep Advisor studio
Organic, Natural, and Durable Components

Birch Natural Mattress

An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.

Score 4.0/5
Read Birch Natural Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
price tagUse code JULY25 and save 25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchaseFourth of July Sale-Extended

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Trial Period

100 nights

Warranty

25-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.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Visit Birch
Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Firmness LevelMattress TypeBest For
6LatexStomach Sleepers

Why the Birch Natural Earned Best Queen Medium-Firm Mattress

The Birch Natural should delight eco-conscious shoppers looking for a queen-size medium-firm mattress, thanks to its impressive list of materials, which features organic wool, organic cotton, and natural latex. 

The bed’s middle-ground feel should deliver an optimal balance of comfort and support. While the latex helps to alleviate pressure, the individually wrapped coils deliver targeted support to different areas of the body for a healthy spinal alignment.

Birch Natural mattress in the Sleep Advisor studio
How the Birch looks set up in our studio.

Testing Studio Soundbite 

“After giving the Birch natural a whirl, we landed on a 6 out of 10 medium firmness level. The top layer is super squishy like Jello-O, but you get some nice sink before feeling those coils lifting you up below—all to say, really balanced comfort and support.”

Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester

What Makes It a Medium-Firm Bed?

We rated the Birch Natural at 6.5 out of 10. This firmness plus bouncy latex and organic wool should make for a uniquely versatile feel.

What’s the Birch Natural Made Of?

The Birch Natural has a height of 11 inches with six layers in total.

Inside the Birch Natural

  • Layer 1 – Organic Cotton Cover. GOTS-certified cotton welcomes you to the bed with a tufted cover.

  • Layer 2 – Fire Retardant Organic Wool. A wool layer replaces the synthetic fire barriers found in most mattresses.

  • Layer 3 – Organic Wool. A second sheet of wool helps to regulate temperature and adds a comfort layer to the bed.

  • Layer 4 – Talalay Latex. Sustainably harvested and certified by eco-INSTITUT to guarantee low emissions, this latex layer both relieves pressure and bounces back into shape quickly.

  • Layer 5 – Coils. Individually wrapped springs support your body, with extra-strong coils on the long edges.

  • Layer 6 – Base Wool Layer. A final wool layer acts as a fire-resistant base.

What I Liked
Breathability – All the eco-friendly layers in this bed naturally help to create a temperature-neutral space.
Big bounce – The combination of latex and coils gives this bed a super-responsive feel, perfect for restless sleepers or those who switch positions during the night.
Potential Drawbacks
Pretty pricey – A queen will run you more than $2,000 before coupons and sales, so it’s not the best choice for folks on a budget.
Not the softest – Side sleepers and lightweight folks may need a bed that has more give.

Customer Reviews of The Birch Natural

According to over 4,000 reviews on Birch’s website, the Birch Natural scores a 4.6 out of 5 stars. While some users consider the Birch Natural mattress to be on the pricier side, it gains customer appreciation for its organic materials and sustainable, eco-friendly construction.

Find out more: Check out our full Birch Natural review or check out our best queen mattress picks.

Read More

Compare Medium-Firm Mattress Specs

MattressSupport ScorePressure Relief ScoreSleep Trial LengthWarranty
Helix Midnight5/55/5100 Nights10 years
Nectar4/54.5/5365 NightsLifetime
DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam4.5/54.5/5365 NightsLifetime
Wink Beds EcoCloud4/55/5120 NightsLifetime
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona EliteN/AN/A120 Nights10 years
Nolah Signature5/55/5120 NightsLifetime
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid5/54/5365 NightsLifetime
Bear Star Hybrid5/54/5120 NightsLifetime
Birch Natural5/54/5100 Nights25 years

What Is a Medium-Firm Mattress?

Firmness LevelRange (Number)
Soft3-4
Medium (or Medium-Firm)5-6
Firm7 and above
Note 1-2 are considered extra-soft beds, which are rare and therefore not included on our scale. Just like it’s also rare to see a 10/10 firmness mattress, which would be like sleeping on the floor. We also will add on “.5” to our score for even more accuracy! For more information, check out our firmness scale.

A medium-firm mattress is considered a bed that’s rated between a 5 and 7 on a firmness scale. (At Sleep Advisor, we consider a 7 out of 10 to mark the beginning of true “firm” beds.) As such, these beds can provide both softness and support and are suitable for the majority of sleepers.

While the firmness of these beds is similar, the construction among them varies. Medium-firm beds can include hybrids, innerspring mattresses, memory foam beds, and latex models.

Medium-firm mattresses are the most common mattress option, but they’re not for everyone. For this reason, it’s always best to consider your body type and preferred sleep position to determine whether a medium feel is right for you.

Pros of Medium-Firm Mattresses

There are many reasons to choose a medium-firm mattress if you’re trying to weigh your options:

  • Fit a wide range of sleepers.
  • Good compromise option for couples with different sleeping preferences.
  • A very common mattress type with plenty of options.
  • Can provide either cradling or lift depending on mattress construction.

Cons of Medium-Firm Mattresses

However, it’s important to consider your needs, since medium-firm beds might not work for certain sleeper types:

  • Can be too soft for some sleepers—like heavyweight or stomach sleepers.
  • Can be too firm for some sleepers—like lightweight or side sleepers..

What to Look For When Buying a Medium-Firm Mattress

Although people often focus on the firmness of a mattress as its most important feature, other factors will contribute a lot to its overall comfort and quality.

Materials

A memory foam bed won’t feel the same as an innerspring bed, even if they’re both medium-firm. In addition, materials can impact how warm or cool the bed’s surface is.

Therefore, you should carefully inspect the construction of each bed you’re considering, especially if you’re looking for an eco-friendly or hypoallergenic bed.

Testing the layers and construction of the nectar mattress
The Nectar mattress is an all-foam bed.

Durability

In conjunction with materials and firmness, how long a mattress lasts should factor into your decision. At Sleep Advisor, we pride ourselves on recommending the best of the best, so this means every mattress should be of a high-quality. However, if you’re on the search yourself, be on the lookout for features that mean longevity. These might be a high-coil count in hybrid mattresses, a strong, thick support core in memory foam beds, or strong edge support all around the edges.

For more, check out our list of the best mattresses that won’t sag.

Warranty

All reputable brands will include a warranty with their product. However, warranties vary, so you’ll come across different deals. Some companies offer a 1-year long warranty, while others go as far as providing a lifetime warranty.

Although most companies cover the same things, the length of a warranty can make a difference. The longest-lasting deals often indicate how confident a brand is in its product. You’ll want a medium-firm mattress that remains medium-firm for the majority of the time you own it, so a reassuring warranty is a green flag.

Price

Medium-firm mattresses are available at different prices, but the firmness of a bed rarely affects its overall cost. Instead, the price usually depends on the size, materials, unique features, height, and brand.

Although you should have a pre-set budget, try not to let the price be the only deciding factor when buying a medium-firm mattress.

Sleep Trial

Sometimes it’s hard to decide if a mattress is a good fit for you without trying it out for several nights. A sleep trial allows you to use the mattress without too big of a commitment. If you decide you don’t like it, the company will take it back before the sleep trial ends and will refund your money.

These trials can last anywhere between 30 and 365 nights. The longer the trial, the more time you have to decide whether that medium-firm mattress is an ideal match for your sleep habits.

Pressure Relief

Julia, lead product tester, in the studio testing pressure relief features of each mattress.
We use a pressure map to see how much pressure builds up when sleeping on our back and side.

Pressure build-up is a common issue for most sleepers, although folks who sleep on their side usually struggle the most. The best way to achieve relief is to choose a bed with contouring and cushioning layers that allow a gentle hug. This way, sensitive points like the shoulders, hips, and knees are more “in” the bed than “on” it.

Memory foam and latex beds are excellent at pressure relief, but so are hybrids with thick foam and latex comfort layers.

Explore our best mattresses for pressure relief.

Motion Isolation

Motion isolation refers to how well the bed prevents motion from transferring across its surface. This feature is helpful for anyone who shares a bed with a partner, kids, or pets.

Memory foam and hybrid mattresses are usually better at motion isolation than latex and innerspring beds. Memory foam is excellent at absorbing motion, while the use of pocketed coils and comfort foams in hybrids helps reduce motion transfer.

Testing the motion isolation of the Birch Natural
Seismograph results for the Birch Natural‘s motion test.

Edge Support

Loren Bullock tests the edge support of the Helix Midnight mattress
Testing the edge support of the Helix Midnight mattress.

Edge support is important for couples and single individuals who like to spread across their mattresses. Without edge support, you’ll feel like you’re rolling off the mattress if you sit or sleep near the edge.

Hybrid mattresses tend to have the best edge support, thanks to the coils that often go from one side of the bed to the other. Some even have a reinforced perimeter with thicker coils that prevent the edges from collapsing.

Cooling

If you or your partner sleep hot, then cooling features are going to be important. Memory foam beds are known to overheat, but manufacturers now use gel and copper infusions to cool the material and make these more suitable for hot sleepers.

Latex is even more cooling, as it’s naturally more breathable. Hybrids and innerspring models are perhaps best for hot sleepers because the coil units provide sufficient airflow to keep the other layers cool. Many cooling beds also have unique covers that remain cool to the touch.

Julia Forbes testing how fast a mattress cools down
I use a heat gun to test how fast a mattress cools down in five-minute intervals.

Types of Medium-Firm Mattresses

From our mattress studio, images of our tested mattresses in different materials

There are several types of medium-firm mattresses for you to choose from, each with their unique set of pros and cons.

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses are highly popular among people looking for support, bounce, and breathability. These offer a blend of contouring foam and steel coils. The foam typically comprises the top comfort layers, whereas the coils are towards the bottom.

Medium-firm hybrid mattresses have a sturdy coil unit and multiple foam layers working together to foster both pressure relief and support. Hybrids are also breezy and less likely to overheat, thanks to the coil unit that fosters airflow.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Foam mattresses have a few layers made from memory foam or poly-foam, though some models may include both. These beds have a high-density foam core that supports the upper layers and ensures durability.

The top layers are typically softer to contour to the body for pressure relief. Medium-firm memory foam mattresses can be better at pressure relief than certain hybrids and innerspring models, but they may be too hot unless they feature cooling technologies and materials. Heavy people may also want a bed with more pushback from the support layer.

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses are a good choice for eco-conscious shoppers. Latex is a responsive material harvested from the sap of rubber trees. This unique material is known for its moderate contouring properties, so a medium-firm latex bed would be good for back and stomach sleepers.

In addition, these beds should provide much-needed support for the hips, preventing them from sinking into the mattress. Latex beds are quite durable, so while they may cost more up front, they should last you longer than other types.

Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring beds are similar to hybrids in that they have spring coils. However, innerspring models don’t have thicker comfort layers at the top like hybrids do. Instead, they have a thinner foam layer on top of the coil unit.

In some innerspring beds, the coils are individually wrapped, while others have interconnected coil systems. This type of mattress may have poor motion isolation and less cushion, but they’re airy and suitable for hot sleepers. They’re also a great budget-friendly option compared to hybrid or latex models.

Who Should Sleep on a Medium-Firm Mattress?

Our testers test each sleeping position to make sure each mattress fits the right sleeper

Medium-firm mattresses are versatile and should suit most sleepers. However, certain people may need a softer or firmer bed depending on their body type, preferred sleeping position, or medical conditions. Below are some of the demographics that stand to benefit the most from a medium-firm bed.

Back Sleepers

Medium-firm mattresses make excellent beds for back sleepers as they provide sufficient support to keep the spine aligned. Back sleepers weighing between 130 and 230 pounds should find these beds particularly comfortable.

Sleepers With Back Pain

Those who struggle with back pain should focus on finding a bed that supports the spine, ensuring it’s always in proper alignment. A medium-firm mattress can be a good bed for back pain by keeping the hips from collapsing into the bed (as this could throw the spine out of alignment).

It should also provide the right amount of upper softness to balance out its support features, giving sore backs some pressure relief.

Some Stomach Sleepers

As a stomach sleeper myself, I test every mattress in this sleeping position to get an understanding of how supportive it is for folks like me. The best beds for stomach sleepers need to be supportive enough to keep our hips elevated. Softer mattresses allow the hips to sink too much, which causes the lower back to hyperextend, eventually leading to back pain.

A medium-firm bed is a golden middle between too firm and soft, supporting the hips while cushioning the rest of your body. (However, some heavier stomach sleepers may feel better supported with firm beds, since their weight will cause more compression into the layers.)

Some Plus-Size Sleepers

The best mattresses for heavier folks are usually on the firmer side, due to the support they provide. Medium-firm beds can typically support sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds.

One thing to keep in mind is that a heavier sleeper may find such mattresses softer than sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds. Heavier side sleepers may like a medium-firm mattress, but back and stomach sleepers weighing over 230 pounds should opt for a firmer one.

Medium-Firm Mattress FAQs

How do I know if a medium-firm mattress is right for me?

You should first consider your sleep position and body type. Medium-firm beds are typically best for back sleepers, although some side and stomach sleepers may also like them depending on their body weight. Luckily, most brands offer a sleep trial for customers to see if the mattress is right for them.

Is a medium-firm mattress good for your back?

A medium-firm mattress should be good for your back, especially if back sleeping is your preferred position. These beds provide sufficient support and gentle contouring to fill the gap between your lower back and the mattress. Some models are even specifically made for reducing back pain.

What is the difference between firm and medium firm mattresses?

A medium-firm bed will have a noticeable balance of softness and support, and occupies the zone between a 5 and 7 on our firmness scale.

Firm beds are noticeably more rigid and have firmness ratings above a 7 on our firmness scale. They often have minimal contouring but excellent support, particularly for heavier bodies.

Is a medium-firm mattress good for side sleepers?

Whether a medium-firm mattress is good for side sleepers depends on the person. Some side sleepers love soft beds that let them sink into the first layer. Others prefer to sleep “on” the bed instead of “in” it, but still like a bit of contouring to prevent pressure build-up.

Lightweight and heavier side sleepers won’t get the same feel from the same firmness level. This means your body weight is crucial in deciding if a medium-firm mattress is good for side sleeping.

For more information, check our guide on best mattresses for side sleepers.

Compare Prices of the The Best Medium-Firm Mattresses

MattressBest ForPrice (Queen Size)Review
Helix MidnightEditor’s Pick$1,199Helix Midnight Mattress Review
NectarAffordable$1,099Nectar Mattress Review
DreamCloud Premier Memory FoamMemory Foam$2,333DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam Mattress Review
Wink Beds EcoCloudCooling$1,999WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress Review
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona EliteBack Pain$2,399Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress Review
Nolah SignatureSide Sleepers$1,599Nolah Signature Mattress Review
Saatva Memory Foam HybridKing$1,795Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress Review
Bear Star HybridHybrid$1,998Bear Star Hybrid Mattress Review
Birch NaturalQueen$1,873Birch Natural Mattress Review
Julia Forbes

Julia Forbes

Lead Product Tester

About Author

Julia is the Lead Reviewer at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.

Stomach Sleeper