Firm vs Soft Mattress - Choosing the Right one for you

Whether you’re a side sleeper, back sleeper or you change positions during the night - finding the right mattress comfort level can mean the difference between a blissful sleep or a night of tossing and turning. Deciding between firm vs soft mattresses comes down to three points; 

1. Your Spine
2. Your Sleeping position
3. Personal preferences 

But the question remains, how to choose the right mattress for you?

The best soft mattress is the one that lets you sink in and doze off into a lulled slumber

What Are Soft Mattresses good for?

The best soft mattress is the one that lets you sink in and doze off into a lulled slumber. Besides the extra comfort, soft mattresses are usually the go-to mattress for side sleepers. A soft mattress can better cushion your shoulders and hips.

Another thing to keep in mind is whether you’ll be sharing your bed

For the most part, soft mattresses are usually made from memory foam which can be great for you to literally “sink” into the mattress. The downside is that memory foam retains heat meaning that trying to stay cool on hot nights might be a problem. 

Another thing to keep in mind is whether you’ll be sharing your bed. If you’re sharing the bed the heavier partner may sink further in making the bed unbalanced (which is great if you want to spoon - but not when you want to sleep!)

Is a soft mattress good for your back?

A soft mattress can bring much comfort to those who are suffering from back pain. Side sleepers also find a soft mattress to be ideal, a quality soft mattress will allow the hips to sink while still providing pressure relief. A soft mattress can be good for your back, providing its designed to offer pressure relief. 

What are Firm Mattresses good for?

The best firm mattress, on the other hand, provides a stable surface to sleep on which helps to improve circulation. Rather than sinking into the mattress, your bones will absorb most of the pressure putting less stress on your muscles and arteries. Another advantage is that a firm mattress helps to keep your back straight and provides even support for your whole body.

If you don’t have back issues or if you sleep on your stomach, a firm mattress can provide you with excellent support

However, for those who have back issues or weak bones - the added pressure of a firm mattress might lead to an uncomfortable night’s sleep.

If you don’t have back issues or if you sleep on your stomach, a firm mattress can provide you with excellent support. Meaning you will wake up feeling refreshed and ready to go!

What is the difference between a soft and a firm mattress?

Soft mattresses tend to sink beneath the sleeper’s body, this helps it to feel soft and cushiony. They also tend to have more comfort layers inside the mattress. However, this means that most memory foam mattresses retain heat. 

A firmer mattress won’t sag as much, so the mattress won’t wrap around the sleeper so tightly, reducing the amount of heat that is trapped. 

Whether a mattress is firm or soft usually depends on the materials it is made from. Soft mattresses are usually made from memory foam, latex or a hybrid. Whilst firm mattresses are usually made from higher-density polyfoams. 

Remember that firmness is ultimately relative, as a mattress is designed to respond to the weight and pressure of your body

How is firmness measured?

When talking about firm vs soft mattresses, keep in mind that it’s not a question of black or white, so answering the question “Is it better to have a soft or firm mattress?” is very subjective and often down to personal preference for firmness. Mattress firmness is measured on a scale. This mattress firmness scale usually ranges from 1 to 10 (from extra soft to extra firm). Alternatively, they might be measured as soft, medium and firm.

Remember that firmness is ultimately relative, as a mattress is designed to respond to the weight and pressure of your body. 

So what might seem like an 8/10 firm mattress for someone, might feel like a 6/10 for you.

Sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds should consider getting a softer mattress. Heavier individuals, over 250 pounds, might want to consider a firmer mattress. 

A mattress that eases the sensitive pressure points of the hips and shoulders is the most important factor to consider

What firmness of mattress is best?

Many sleep experts recommend a mattress of medium firmness. However, A mattress that eases the sensitive pressure points of the hips and shoulders is the most important factor to consider. A pressure relieving mattress will gently support the contours of your body, align the spine, and offer superior comfort. Whether you prefer a soft or firm mattress is your personal preference.    

Firm vs Soft Mattresses - Which is better for you?

When choosing between firm vs soft mattresses, the important thing to consider is your sleeping position.

Another thing to keep in mind is your weight. Heavier individuals might prefer a firmer mattress. Lighter individuals will usually enjoy a softer mattress more.

At the end of the day, your personal preference is extremely important. You’re the one whose going to sleep on it after all! Listen to your body and choose a mattress that feels right for you!

Firm vs Soft Mattresses - Tips on how to choose the right mattress firmness for you

Here are some quick tips to help you decide between firm vs soft mattresses;

• If you suffer from back pain go for a soft and supportive mattress
• Side sleepers tend to prefer a soft mattress
• Back sleepers should consider a medium-firm mattress
• Stomach sleepers should consider a firm mattress
• Heavier individuals might want to opt for a firm mattress
• Whilst a lighter individual should try a soft mattress.

the best way to find the right mattress for you would be to try it out

Ultimately, the best way to find the right mattress for you would be to try it out. Unfortunately, simply sitting on a mattress at the store won’t cut it.