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The Best Firm Mattress of 2025
Expert Tested & Reviewed
Sleep Foundation
Why Trust Us
Our mission to create a healthier, more well-rested world demands that our product reviews be best-in-class. You won’t find more expertise on mattresses and sleep products anywhere else.
The Sleep Foundation product testing team uses an industry-leading evaluation process paired with real world consumer feedback to come up with objective recommendations so that you can feel confident in your product decisions.
Firm mattresses are popular for a good reason: They make for sturdy, supportive, and durable beds that promote better spinal alignment, reduce heat buildup, and offer consistent support night after night. In the guide below, we’ll share our picks for the best firm mattresses and cover all of the things you’ll want to keep in mind as you’re shopping.
- Robust Support: The best firm mattresses feel flat and even, allowing you to lie on your side, back, or stomach without sinking too deeply.
- Strong Perimeter: A firm mattress should push back against your weight and feel secure when you sit or sleep along its edges.
- Ease of Movement: Many of the best firm mattresses feel responsive and bouncy, so you shouldn’t feel stuck when moving across their surfaces or changing sleep positions.
Our Top Picks
- Best FIrm Mattress Overall – Plank Firm Luxe
- Best Mattress for Back Pain – Firmer WinkBed
- Best Mattress for Side Sleepers – Helix Twilight
- Best Luxury Mattress – Saatva Classic
- Best Extra-Firm Mattress – Plank Firm
- Best Value Mattress – Silk & Snow Mattress – Firm
- Best Mattress for Lumbar Support – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Firm
- Best Mattress for Couples – Helix Dawn
- Best Mattress for Back and Stomach Sleepers – Bear Elite Hybrid
- Best Mattress for Pressure Relief – Nolah Evolution 15
- Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers – Titan Plus
In-Depth Reviews
With built-in versatility as a flippable bed with firm and extra firm sides, you get two mattresses for one with the Plank Firm Luxe. This mattress earned our top mark because its built to last, offers outstanding support with just the right amount of cushion for a firm bed.
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Pros
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Flippable design with firm and extra firm sides
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Solid construction end-to-end to enhance ease of movement and edge support
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Firm materials minimize sinkage and avoid heat retention
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Cons
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Might be too rigid for side sleepers under 130 pounds
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You may feel your bed partner move around due to the bed’s responsive coils
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (7), Extra Firm (9)
Price Range
$693 – $1,299
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
The Plank Firm Luxe — also known as the Plank Luxe Hybrid — is a flippable mattress with a firm (7) feel on one side and an extra firm (9) feel on the other. The latter is one of the firmest, most supportive surfaces our team has personally tested, but we also found the softer side highly stable and well-suited to people who weigh more than 230 pounds – particularly back and stomach sleepers.
How It Performed
During our hands-on tests, the Plank Firm Luxe earned its most favorable ratings from back and stomach sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds. Most testers agreed the firm side was more comfortable, though some of our stomach sleepers in this weight group received more support from the extra firm feel.
We also gave the mattress high marks for edge support and ease of movement. The coils create a responsive feel on both sides, allowing our testers to move across the mattress without feeling trapped or stuck, and each person felt stable when sitting along the perimeter. Temperature control was another performance area where the Plank Firm Luxe excelled, especially with the phase change panel upgrade.
Construction Breakdown
The firm side of the Plank Firm Luxe contains a top layer of fiber padding, followed by two polyfoam layers. Our testers noticed light cushioning on this surface, resulting in even weight distribution and minimal sinkage. The extra firm side forgoes one of the underlying foam layers. As a result, we experienced no sinkage whatsoever on this surface. A shared support core of pocketed coils reinforces each side, resulting in strong pushback whenever one of our testers got in and out of bed.
A cover made from a quilted cotton-microfiber blend encases the entire mattress. This material is fairly breathable, and air circulates freely through the coil layer, so we detected minimal heat buildup during our temperature control tests. If you are an exceptionally hot sleeper, we recommend upgrading the mattress with a phase change panel sewn into both surfaces. Our testers noticed cooling bursts from these panels, which reduced heat buildup and kept the mattress at a comfortable temperature.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
Brooklyn Bedding offers twelve sizes, including options for short queen and RV beds, and the company ships free to customers in the contiguous U.S. A 120-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty back Plank Firm Luxe purchases.
The Firmer WinkBed’s zoned coil system is incredibly robust, and along with the firm construction, earns this bed high marks for support and durability. This mattress frankly just feels luxurious. It’s plenty firm while also has a touch of give to ease your pressure points.
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Pros
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Zoned coil system ensures targeted lumbar support
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Adaptive foam top layers contour to reduce pressure on the back
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Firmness level helps to maintain spinal alignment for sleepers over 130 pounds
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Cons
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Side sleepers may prefer more shoulder and hip cushioning or contouring
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Those with tender pressure points might prefer the cushioning of a softer WinkBed model
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Firm (7)
Price Range
$1,149 – $2,049
Trial Period
120 nights (30 night requirement)
The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid available in four different firmness levels. After personally testing each design, we’re recommending the Firmer WinkBed (7) for anyone seeking a firm, supportive mattress. Our team was particularly impressed by the zoned coil system, which provided excellent reinforcement and pushback during our tests for ease of movement and edge support. The adaptive foam layers also contour evenly to reduce pain and pressure in the shoulders, lower back, and hips.
How It Performed
We noticed excellent overall stability when testing the Firmer WinkBed for edge support, and our testers could move across the mattress’ surface with relative ease. Temperature control was another highlight of our tests. We attribute the Firmer WinkBed’s excellent cooling to its moisture-wicking cover, gel-infused foam layer, and steady airflow throughout the coil system.
The mattress was particularly comfortable for the back and stomach sleepers on our team who weigh at least 130 pounds. Our side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds also found the Firmer WinkBed sufficiently supportive. Lighter individuals may find this mattress too firm, but the Softer WinkBed (4) or Luxury Firm WinkBed (6) may be more suitable.
Construction Breakdown
The Firmer WinkBed features adaptive polyfoam quilted into the cover, followed by a second foam layer. Despite the firm feel, our testers noticed a plush surface after getting onto the mattress and deeper cushioning as their bodies settled into the comfort system. The second layer is infused with cooling gel intended to dissipate body heat.
In the support core, thicker coils rest beneath your torso and hips – two areas where people tend to carry a disproportionate amount of weight. Most of our testers sank very little, if at all. This was especially true for the side and back sleepers on our team. The coils are also reinforced along the perimeter to protect the edges from sinkage. A cover made of eucalyptus-derived Tencel fabric encases the mattress. We noticed that this naturally breathable material made the surface feel cool to the touch.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
Each Firmer WinkBed comes with a 120-night trial period. If you find this mattress feels too soft or too firm, you can exchange it for a WinkBed with a different firmness level at no extra cost. The replacement model comes with a 60-night trial. You’ll also receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects for the WinkBed you decide to keep.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Helix Twilight
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If you’re a side sleeper, most firm mattresses won’t provide enough cushioning or contouring for you to sleep comfortably. The Helix Twilight is a notable exception. We loved how well this bed’s foam layers alleviate pressure point pain with its firm, supportive surface.
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Pros
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Designed specifically with side sleepers in mind
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Dual foam layers ensure even weight distribution
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Luxe model provides zoned support for improved alignment
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Cons
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May be too firm for side sleepers up to 230 pounds
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Side sleepers who change positions frequently might find movement challenging
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (7)
Price Range
$749 – $1,399
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
If you’re a side sleeper, most firm mattresses won’t provide enough cushioning or contouring for you to sleep comfortably. The Helix Twilight is a notable exception. The mattress contains two foam layers that adapt to the body, resulting in even weight distribution to alleviate pressure buildup in the shoulders and hips – a common issue among the side sleepers on our team.
How It Performed
Among our testing team, the side sleepers who felt most comfortable on the Twilight weighed at least 130 pounds. The mattress was also popular among our back sleepers of 130 pounds or more and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. None of our testers struggled when moving across the Twilight’s surface, which we attributed to its strong coil system.
We’ve found that the Twilight sleeps quite cool. This is due to steady air circulation through the coil layer and a breathable knit cover to help the surface maintain a comfortable temperature. Our testers noticed minimal heat buildup on the surface when evaluating the mattress for temperature control. The Twilight’s firm, responsive feel also ensured strong performance during our ease of movement and edge support tests.
Construction Breakdown
A memory foam comfort layer and polyfoam transitional layer make up the Twilight’s comfort system. While the mattress has a firm (7) feel, our testers noticed moderate yet even conforming from the Twilight’s foam layers. The support core contains pocketed coils with extra perimeter support. As a result, we felt strong pushback when lying near and sitting along the edges of the mattress.
If you’d like to upgrade, the Helix Twilight Luxe contains all of these elements as well as a pillow-top surface with additional foam padding. The side sleepers on our team weighing up to 230 pounds appreciated the plusher feel of this mattress. Twilight Luxe models also feature zoned support cores with thicker coils to reinforce the chest, stomach, and hips.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
Helix offers free shipping to all 50 states. Twilight mattress purchases come with a 100-night sleep trial, and a lifetime warranty protects against structural defects.
The Saatva Classic is a luxury option at an accessible price-point. The firmest version of this bed has it all – supreme support, balanced feel, wonderfully breathable, and a sturdy edge. It’s a premium mattress, and if your budget fits, you will have a hard time finding a more comfortable choice.
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Who it’s best for
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Multiple firmness levels and heights cater to diverse preferences
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Features environmentally conscious materials like recycled steel coils
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Organic cotton cover offers breathability and a plush feel
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Highlights
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Higher price might be restrictive for some budgets
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If you share the bed, you’re likely to feel your partner moving around
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$995 – $2,710
Trial Period
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
The Saatva Classic is another luxury hybrid we’ve tested that’s available in multiple firmness levels. If you’re looking for sturdy support and a fair amount of responsiveness, we recommend the firm (8) feel. This mattress contains two coil layers. As a result, our testers noticed generous pushback and exceptional stability along the perimeter.
How It Performed
We found during our tests that the Saatva Classic’s dual-coil construction allowed the mattress to perform better than traditional hybrids in several key categories. Temperature control was one standout area. Both coil layers circulate air, and the cover is made of breathable organic cotton, so we didn’t detect much heat buildup on the surface. Our testers also noticed minimal sinkage along the edges, and none of us felt trapped when moving across the surface.
Our tests showed the firm Saatva Classic should be most comfortable for side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds. If you are lighter than these groups, the soft (3) or medium firm (6) versions of this mattress may be more suitable.
Construction Breakdown
The Saatva Classic begins with a Euro-top surface containing foam and fiber padding to prevent the surface from feeling too stiff. A memory foam strip beneath your lower back can also promote even alignment and reduce pressure in the lumbar region and hips. The first coil layer consists of pocketed minicoils for transitional support, followed by a support core of low-gauge hourglass coils made from recycled steel.
You can choose between two profiles for your Saatva Classic. The 11.5-inch model contains 4-inch hourglass coils, while the 14.5-inch model contains 7-inch hourglass coils. If you’re seeking extra reinforcement, we recommend the latter – although both versions of the mattress proved highly supportive during various stages of our hands-on mattress tests.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
After you’ve placed your order, Saatva works with you to coordinate free White Glove delivery that includes setup of the Saatva and removal of your existing mattress. You then have 365 nights to try it out with the option to return it for a refund, minus $99 deducted for return pickup. The mattress comes with a lifetime warranty to cover potential defects.
Much like its hybrid counterpart, the Plank Firm Luxe, this mattress is flippable with a firm and extra firm side, the latter of which is one of the firmest we’ve ever tested. This bed has no sinkage and is the perfect surface for ultra firm-seeking stomach and back sleepers.
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Pros
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One of the firmest mattresses on the market
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Stable support for back and stomach sleepers
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Optimal support for sleepers over 230 pounds
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Cons
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Minimal contouring can lead to pressure build-up
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Extra firm surface does little to isolate motion
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Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Firm (7), Extra Firm (9)
Price Range
$562 – $1,149
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Most of the flippable mattresses our team has tested feature at least one surface that falls between soft and medium. The Plank Firm is a solid choice for anyone who prefers to sleep on a firm mattress most nights. One side is firm (7), and the other is extra firm (9), the latter of which is among the firmest surfaces we’ve tested firsthand.
How It Performed
As a firmer-than-average mattress, the Plank Firm performed well in areas where other all-foam beds we’ve tested have fallen short. The edges felt highly stable to us, particularly on the extra firm side, and our testers could move across both surfaces with minimal sinkage. Above-average cooling was another quality we noticed throughout our tests. Even without the phase change panels, our temperature sensors detected very little heat buildup.
The majority of our testers preferred the Plank Firm’s firm side. In particular, our back sleepers over 230 pounds and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds felt comfortable and sufficiently supported on this surface. The stomach sleepers on our team weighing more than 230 pounds also enjoyed the extra firm side, but other testers found this surface too firm.
Construction Breakdown
The Plank Firm’s firm side contains a top layer of soft fibers quilted into the cover, followed by a layer of TitanFlex polyfoam. We consider the TitanFlex a “best of both worlds” material that combines the traditional foam’s cushioning and latex’s responsiveness. Our testers noticed considerable bounciness when moving across this side of the mattress. The extra firm side does not feature any TitanFlex. We felt little to no contouring on this surface.
A support core of high-density polyfoam is located between the comfort systems. Our testers found that this layer provides excellent stability for each side. If you are a hot sleeper, we recommend adding a phase change panel to both sides of the mattress. This panel is sewn into the cover and intended to capture and remove body heat. While none of our testers felt excessively warm on either of the Plank Firm’s surfaces, we noticed a substantial difference in cooling and heat dissipation.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
Brooklyn Bedding backs the mattress with a 120-night sleep trial. If you decide to keep the Plank Firm, you’ll also receive a lifetime warranty.
The all-foam Silk & Snow Mattress is available in two designs, including a firm (7) option for sleepers who need extra support. Our tests show this model provides more pushback and resists sinkage better than the vast majority of competing foam mattresses on the market today.
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Pros
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Adaptive all-foam design promotes even alignment and reduces pressure
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Excellent motion isolation for couples
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All orders include a generous 365-night trial and return period
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Cons
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Some people over 230 pounds struggle to move on the mattress
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Foam layers emit strong off-gassing odor for the first few nights
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Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Firm (7)
Price Range
$450 – $750
Trial Period
365 nights
Silk & Snow has earned a reputation for high-quality sleep products at approachable sticker prices. The company’s flagship foam mattress nicely exemplifies this trend with a sturdy, three-layer design that provides a soothing balance of cushioning, bounce, and support. You can choose from two firmness levels for the mattress – we’re focusing on the firm (7) model because it is a better match for people who weigh more than 230 pounds, especially those who sleep on their backs and/or stomachs.
How It Performed
The firm Silk & Snow Mattress was a big hit among our testers who weigh at least 130 pounds. While the most favorable ratings came from side sleepers, back and stomach sleepers in this weight range found the mattress comfortable and sufficiently supportive. The versatile construction also makes this model a solid pick for combination sleepers who switch between different positions throughout the night.
Like other foam mattresses we’ve evaluated, the Silk & Snow performed well during our tests for pressure relief and motion isolation. The adaptive comfort layers form a mold around your figure without sinking or hugging too closely, which helps align your spine and reduce pressure buildup in areas like the shoulders and hips. We also noticed little to no movement transferring on the surface when two testers lied side by side on the mattress.
Construction Breakdown
The Silk & Snow Mattress contains a top comfort layer of dense memory foam, followed by transitional polyfoam. These materials contour to the body, but the firm design ensures minimal hugging and sinkage. A cooling gel infusion in the memory foam is also intended to stave off heat retention. The support core contains high-density polyfoam, and the cover – which is removable and machine-washable – is made of stretch-knit polyester.
In addition to carrying a below-average sticker price, the Silk & Snow Mattress qualifies for free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada. Your order includes a lengthy 365-night sleep trial to give you ample time to sleep on the mattress in your own home. If you’re satisfied with your purchase, the mattress is also covered under a 15-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Mattress for Lumbar Support
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Firm
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The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Firm delivers deep cushioning and sturdy support, and the result is a mattress that’s ideal for many people with lower back pain — even those over 230 pounds. Consistent cooling, a strong perimeter, and approachable pricing add to the appeal of this online favorite.
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Pros
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Relatively affordable option
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Hybrid design allows for plenty of airflow
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Supportive, responsive surface while still providing some pressure relief
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Cons
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Not as durable as higher end Brooklyn Bedding models
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Less pressure relief than mattresses with thicker foam comfort layers
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$499 – $1,199
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Brooklyn Bedding’s Signature Hybrid is available in three firmness levels. All three have performed well during our tests, but we’re singling out the Signature Hybrid – Firm for people who need extra support from their mattress. The firm (8) Signature features foam layers that lightly cushion the body, reducing pressure along the spine in the process, but thick coils with perimeter support help ensure you won’t sink too much.
How It Performed
Our team tested all three versions of the Signature Hybrid. The Firm model’s most favorable ratings came from our side sleepers over 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds. If your weight falls below these ranges, we recommend one of the softer Signature Hybrid designs.
This model performed well in testing areas such as ease of movement, edge support, and temperature control. We also found the firm Signature Hybrid absorbs movement well, making it a solid choice for couples who need a mattress that isolates motion and feels supportive.
Construction Breakdown
The Signature Hybrid – Firm’s comfort system contains a top layer of memory foam over denser transitional polyfoam. The former is infused with cooling gel intended to dissipate body heat and help you sleep cool. In the support core, you’ll find 8-inch pocketed coils and a high-density foam base. The coils are reinforced along the perimeter to help you feel secure lying close to the mattress’ edges and reduce sinkage when you get in and out of bed.
Standard Signature Hybrid – Firm models are encased in breathable cotton covers quilted with a thin layer of foam. If you sleep exceptionally hot or reside in a warm or humid place, you can upgrade to a GlacioTex phase change cover that feels cool to the touch at all times. Adding the GlacioTex cover increases the sticker price by up to $200.
The Signature Hybrid – Firm is available in 14 different sizes. In addition to standard mattress dimensions, your options include a split California king for couples who share adjustable beds, an Olympic queen for those who need extra width, and several RV-friendly sizes.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
An approachable sticker price and free shipping for orders in the contiguous U.S. make the Signature Hybrid – Firm a good option for shoppers with limited budgets. Brooklyn Bedding’s sleep trial runs for 120 nights, and the mattress is further backed by a lifetime warranty if you decide to keep it.
Best Mattress for Couples
Helix Dawn
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For a firm surface, the Helix Dawn is an especially strong performer at limiting the movement you feel from your sleep partner. Outside of earning high marks from our team for motion isolation, the Dawn is a splendidly cool bed, and offers strong support across the entire bed.
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Pros
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Sturdy coil support core provides robust surface for even weight distribution
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Designed to minimize sinkage in the midsection
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Robust edge support for people who sleep near the edge of the bed
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Cons
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Side sleepers will find better support on the softer Helix Dusk, Moonlight, or Midnight
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Lacks sufficient cushioning for back sleepers under 130 pounds
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$749 – $1,399
Trial Period
100 Nights (30-Night Requirement)
Helix Sleep’s product line includes an extensive selection of hybrid mattresses, each designed for certain people based on body type, sleep position, and firmness preferences. The Dawn is the firmest of the brand’s luxury hybrids, and our test team rated it as an 8 on our 10-point scale. The foam layers offer a bit of surface cushioning, while a coil system gives the bed a responsive feel couples may enjoy for sex.
How It Performed
Our testers found the Dawn offered excellent reinforcement and should appeal to anyone who wants a firm mattress. The firm feel was best suited to back and stomach sleepers on our team who weigh more than 230 pounds, but those between 130 and 230 pounds should also appreciate the even surface. The coils helped the mattress sleep cool by generating consistent airflow throughout the interior.
If the Dawn sounds appealing but you’re looking for something slightly softer, the Twilight Luxe (7), Dusk Luxe (6), and Midnight Luxe (6) are also reasonably firm. Meanwhile, the Dawn Luxe upgrade may be a good fit if you’re looking for firmness with a bit more surface cushioning. This model has a pillow-top and zoned interior coils for extra support and a firm (8) feel.
Construction Breakdown
The Dawn’s comfort system begins with a layer of polyfoam that slightly cushions the surface. Underneath is a polyfoam transitional layer that prevents your body from sinking into the coils. Our testers reported even contouring from head to toe and even support for your body, as well as some surface-level bounciness that made getting in and out of bed easier. The support core contains pocketed coils that reinforce the sleep surface with thicker low-gauge coils lining the perimeter to make the edges feel stable. A polyester cover encases the mattress, which measures 12 inches thick.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
Helix Sleep offers free ground delivery to all 50 states. Your Dawn purchase includes a 100-night sleep trial for testing the mattress and a lifetime warranty against structural defects if you choose to keep it.
Best Mattress for Back and Stomach Sleepers
Bear Elite Hybrid – Firm
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When we tested the Bear Elite Hybrid, it was a clear winner among back and stomach sleepers in each body weight category. Our team found spinal alignment – what we think of as support – was about as good as it gets for back and stomach sleeping.
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Pros
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Aerated foams and breathable support core prevent uncomfortable heat retention
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Versatile enough for couples with different sleeping positions
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Sturdy coil system ensures good surface responsiveness during sex
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Cons
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You’ll feel when your bed partner changes position due to the coil core
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Some couples may prefer stronger edge support
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,231 – $2,548
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night break-in period)
The Bear Elite Hybrid is available in three designs, the firmest of which we’ve placed as an 8 on our 10-point firmness scale. This version of the mattress caters to couples in several ways. Strong edge support allows you and your partner to use the entire mattress surface for sleep and sex, the sturdy coil system makes the surface responsive and easy to move across, and cooling components ensure excellent temperature regulation.
How It Performed
The firm Elite Hybrid’s most favorable ratings came from our side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds, back sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds, and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. Cushioning foam layers combined with a sturdy coil system made the mattress feel balanced and sufficiently supportive, particularly around the torso and hips, where people tend to carry more weight compared to other areas of the body.
We were also impressed by the Elite Hybrid’s temperature-regulating abilities. Our team attributes the mattress’ superior cooling to its breathable cover, copper-infused comfort layer, and coils that promote consistent airflow throughout the interior. None of our testers had a hard time moving across the mattress, and we noticed very little sinkage along the perimeter during our edge support tests.
Construction Breakdown
The Elite Hybrid’s comfort layer is composed of memory foam infused with copper, which has natural cooling and moisture-wicking properties. A polyfoam transitional layer provides additional cushioning while maintaining even support for your body. While the mattress feels firm and supportive, we noticed even contouring and weight distribution from the foam layers. The polyfoam is also divided into five firmness zones, so we didn’t experience any sinkage around the midsection.
The support core consists of pocketed coils over a base layer of high-density foam. Strong pushback from the coils reinforces the zoned transitional foam, and all of our testers could lie comfortably on the mattress – even those weighing more than 230 pounds. A cover made from a Celliant-blend fabric encases the Elite Hybrid. Celliant is a textile engineered for exceptional breathability and heat dissipation. As a result, we felt minimal heat buildup when testing the mattress for temperature control.
Seven sizes are available, including a split king size for adjustable beds.
Bear offers free shipping to customers in the contiguous U.S. and a 120-night sleep trial. Customers can return mattresses anytime after the 30-night break-in period. Elite Hybrid purchases come with a lifetime warranty that protects against structural defects.
Even though you want a firm mattress, everyone needs to cushion sensitive pressure regions. The Nolah Evolution 15 is that best of both worlds bed you’re after. Its zoned system has just the right amount of give in your shoulder and hip areas, but doesn’t sacrifice on firm support.
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Pros
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Comfortable balance of strong support and light cushioning
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Multiple foam layers cushion key pressure points
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Zoned coils provide targeted support and bolster the edges
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Cons
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Firm feel might not offer enough pressure relief for lighter individuals
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May feel too hard for side sleepers, leading to hip and shoulder discomfort
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$974 – $2,078
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement), $99 return pickup fee
The Nolah Evolution 15 is a luxury hybrid available in three firmness levels, including a firm (8) design for people who need strong support. We found this mattress very balanced and comfortable thanks to the Euro-top surface cushioned with thick foam layers and a zoned coil system that pushes back against areas of the body where our testers carry extra weight.
How It Performed
During our tests, the Evolution 15 was particularly popular among back sleepers. The most favorable ratings came from those weighing at least 130 pounds, but the mattress received “good” or better ratings across all weight groups. Stomach sleepers over 230 pounds also found the firm Evolution 15 comfortable and adequately supportive. For side sleepers, the medium (5) or medium firm (6) versions of this mattress will probably be more suitable.
Ease of movement was another area where this mattress performed well for our testers. The firmer feel and generous coil pushback allowed each tester to move across the surface without feeling stuck – a common issue for mattresses with deep foam systems. Other highlights of our tests included consistent cooling and stable perimeter support.
Construction Breakdown
The Evolution 15 features adaptive foam quilted into the cover. This is followed by three additional foam layers. Each layer is progressively denser from top to bottom, so our testers felt different levels of cushioning and contouring as their bodies settled into the mattress. These foams also have an open-cell composition, so we didn’t notice much heat buildup.
Thicker coils beneath the torso and hips delivered enhanced support for each team member, including those who weigh more than 230 pounds. Additional perimeter support also made it easy for us to get on and off the mattress without much sinking or sagging at the edges. The entire mattress is encased in a cover made of proprietary cooling fabric.
Seven sizes are available, including a split king size for adjustable beds.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
Nolah ships free to customers in the contiguous U.S. The company offers a 120-night sleep trial, during which customers can return a mattress after a 30-night break-in period. Shoppers can also opt out of the sleep trial for a discount at checkout. Evolution 15 purchases come with a generous lifetime warranty.
Even though the Titan Plus is marketed toward people who weigh more than 230 pounds, the mattress could work for anyone who prefers above-average support. Our team appreciated how the Plus stays cool throughout the night and has sturdy edges that make getting in and out of bed easier.
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Pros
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Exceptional reinforcement in the bed’s center
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Hybrid construction provides excellent durability
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Sturdy edge support helps you get in and out of bed with ease
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Cons
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Side sleepers may need additional cushioning for hips and shoulders
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Too firm for sleepers with painful pressure points
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$599 – $1,386
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
If you weigh more than 230 pounds, you may need an exceptionally firm mattress to minimize sinkage around the midsection. The Titan Plus from Brooklyn Bedding registers as an 8 on our 10-point firmness scale, ensuring above-average reinforcement compared to other hybrid models. The top two layers provide gentle cushioning, but a sturdy support system stabilizes the mattress to keep your body aloft.
How It Performed
During our hands-on tests, the Titan Plus earned favorable ratings from our side, back, and stomach sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds. These testers were impressed with the stable feel and strong edge support, as well as how easily they could move across the surface. Back and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds also felt reasonably comfortable.
Our tests show cooling is a major strength of the Titan Plus. The GlacioTex cover is highly effective at dissipating heat — but even with the standard cover, the Titan Plus’ coils generate enough airflow to keep our testers comfortable. Given the bouncy feel, we also awarded the mattress high ratings for sex.
Construction Breakdown
The Titan Plus begins with a memory foam comfort layer, followed by transitional polyfoam. These layers contour to a minimal degree but still distribute your weight evenly to reduce pressure in the shoulders, lower back, and hips. The support core consists of pocketed coils over dense base foam.
Standard Titan Plus models are encased in soft cotton-microfiber covers. For an additional fee, you can upgrade to a GlacioTex Cooling Cover composed of phase change material that captures and releases body heat to maintain a comfortable surface temperature. At 11 inches thick, the Titan Plus is considered a medium-profile mattress.
The Titan Plus is available in seven sizes, including a split California king for couples who use an adjustable bed. Below-average pricing for a hybrid and free shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. make this mattress a solid choice for budget-conscious shoppers. You’ll also receive a 120-night trial period with your purchase and a 10-year warranty if you decide to keep the Titan Plus.
Watch Video: We Tested the Best Firm Mattresses of 2025 – Here Are Our Favorites
Why You Should (or Should Not) Sleep on a Firm Mattress?
We’ve found that firm mattresses work best for people over 230 pounds as well as back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds. The added stability of a firm mattress helps prevent these groups from sinking too deeply into the surface, thereby promoting better alignment during sleep.
“Spinal alignment is crucial for both sleep quality and reducing the likelihood of waking up with aches and pains,” according to Dr. Nilong Vyas, “because it ensures that the spine retains its natural curvature while you sleep. When the spine is properly aligned, it allows for optimal support of the body’s weight, promoting relaxation and reducing stress on muscles and ligaments. This alignment helps prevent discomfort and stiffness at night, leading to deeper, more restorative sleep. Conversely, poor spinal alignment can lead to strain and tension, contributing to disturbances during sleep and the development of aches and pains upon waking. Maintaining good spinal alignment can significantly enhance overall well-being and comfort.”
Additionally, a firmer mattress that doesn’t contour deeply tends to retain little heat – a crucial feature for those who tend to sleep hot. The rigidity of a firm mattress also makes it easier to move across its surface. Whether you’re switching sleeping positions or simply getting out of bed, moving requires less effort on a sturdy surface. This can make a firm mattress well-suited to people who struggle with mobility.
However, it’s essential to remember that comfort is a personal experience. While back and stomach sleepers might favor firm mattresses, side sleepers and those with specific pressure points might find them uncomfortable.
The reduced sinkage in firm mattresses allows for better air circulation around the body, which can significantly improve temperature regulation during sleep.
How To Choose the Best Firm Mattress for Your Needs
Selecting a mattress goes beyond just pinpointing the right level of firmness. It’s a blend of understanding your body’s unique needs and recognizing what a specific mattress can potentially do for your sleep. To make the process easier, we tested hundreds of firm mattresses and gathered qualitative and quantitative insights that can make your decision easier.
Factors like price, contouring and cushioning, sleeping position, body weight, and materials all play a huge role. We’ll guide you through these considerations to help you find the right firm mattress for you.
Choosing the Right Firmness for You
The right firmness level is the one on which you feel most comfortable and wake up without any discomfort or pressure points. We employ a 10-point firmness scale to rate individual mattresses, but remember, everyone’s perception of firmness can differ. On our scale, anything from 6 to 10 is generally classified as firm, though a bed with a rating of 10 is quite rare and would probably feel uncomfortable to most sleepers
Sleeping Position and Body Weight
Your body weight and sleeping position significantly influence the ideal mattress firmness for your body. For back and stomach sleepers, firm mattresses can be a solid choice, since they offer the right blend of cushion and support. On the other hand, side sleepers usually benefit from a touch more softness.
“Maintaining proper spinal alignment can be challenging for stomach sleepers; however, a firm mattress can provide the necessary support to help achieve this,” says Dr. Vyas. “A firm mattress helps to keep the spine in a neutral position, reducing the risk of strain on the neck and back. Additionally, using a thin pillow or no pillow at all can further prevent unnatural spine bending. By prioritizing spinal alignment, stomach sleepers can improve their sleep quality and minimize the chances of waking up with aches and pains.”
Body weight affects how much your body sinks into a mattress’ surface. We’ve found that firm mattresses are often a great fit for people who weigh more than 130 pounds. For these sleepers, a firm mattress offers a balanced feel—some contouring paired with firmer support. People under 130 pounds are typically more comfortable on a softer surface that provides more contouring.
| Weight | Side Sleepers | Back Sleepers | Stomach Sleepers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 130 lbs. | Soft (3) to Medium (5) | Soft (3) to Medium (5) | Medium Soft (4) to Medium Firm (6) |
| 130 to 230 lbs. | Medium Soft (4) to Medium (5) | Medium (5) to Firm (7) | Medium (5) to Firm (7) |
| More than 230 lbs. | Medium Firm (6) to Firm (7) | Firm (7, 8) to Extra Firm (9) | Firm (7, 8) to Extra Firm (9) |
If you have chronic pain in your back, hips, or shoulders, it’s important to understand how a mattress’s firmness level could affect your symptoms. “When considering mattress firmness for chronic pain, it’s important to recognize that individual needs vary,” says Dr. Cotliar. “While some people find relief with a firm mattress, others may require more cushioning. The key is finding a balance that supports proper alignment while alleviating pressure on sensitive areas.”
Contouring and Pressure Relief
A mattress should contour gently to your body, shaping itself around your natural curves. Adequate contouring improves pressure relief because it helps the mattress to evenly disperse body weight and avoid the buildup of pressure under common pain points like hips and shoulders.
Firm mattresses can offer excellent contouring and pressure relief even though they perform differently than softer mattresses. A firm mattress provides support by maintaining a consistent surface that props your body up, rather than allowing it to sink deeply. The cushioning on a firm mattress might be less pronounced than on a soft mattress, but it should still align with your body shape.
Back and stomach sleepers generally benefit the most from the level of contouring and pressure relief offered by a firm mattress, as these positions need consistent support to prevent the spine from arching unnaturally or the abdomen from sinking too deeply. On the flip side, side sleepers sometimes prefer a bit more give in their mattress to cushion their shoulders and hips.
Mattress Type and Quality
Although we’ve tested firm mattresses of virtually every type of construction, innerspring and hybrid models are usually the firmest. Innersprings provide a solid, consistent surface due to their coil construction, while hybrids have a top layer of latex or dense foam to balance support with gentle contouring. That said, you can find firm mattresses made from every material. Below are the qualities of each mattress type and how they contribute to firmness.
Innerspring
Innersprings have a flat surface with a bit of bounce, contributed by their coil construction. Firmness within a given mattress depends on the density of these coils. Because innerspring mattresses tend not to have a plushy surface, they often feel firmer than other types.
Hybrid
Hybrids combine the steady coils of innersprings with foam or latex tops for more variable levels of cushioning. In addition to a bed’s firmness rating, check out the material and thickness of its top layer to gauge if it’s firm enough for you. Polyfoam has less sinkage than memory foam, and latex generally contours with minimal sink.
Latex
Latex variants, either natural or synthetic, balance responsiveness with firmness. Latex molds gently to the body without too much sinkage, and firmness tends to increase with the density of the latex used.
Foam
Foam is known for its plush, cushiony qualities, but it can also be formulated to have a firm feel. Look for a mattress that’s made from polyfoam instead of one with a thick memory foam layer. Memory foam contours closely to the body, but polyfoam — especially polyfoam with a higher density — has a firmer, more stable feel.
The choice of mattress type not only impacts firmness and performance, but also its lifespan. Generally, high-quality latex and hybrid mattresses excel in durability, while foam can vary based on its density and composition.
Trials, Returns, and Warranties
A company’s trial period, return policy, and warranty offer protection in case the mattress you selected doesn’t align with your expectations.
A sleep trial allows you to experience the bed in the comfort of your own home and is especially crucial when you’re considering the firmness of the mattress. If the mattress doesn’t meet your expectations during the trial, many brands provide an option to exchange or return it.
Warranties, on the other hand, give assurance of the mattress’s durability and quality over time. Should there be any manufacturing defects or premature wear, the warranty acts as a promise from the company to address these issues, ensuring you receive the value for your investment.
How We Test: Rigor, Data, and Sleeper Feedback
Our industry-leading product testing team cares deeply about improving your sleep. Having a holistic understanding of a mattress’s role as part of a sleep system is paramount to our testing process. Since a bed’s comfort and feel depend largely on body weight and sleeping position, our testing team represents a wide range of body types, sleep positions, and comfort preferences.
In our Seattle-based Test Lab, we use an objective, hands-on process to evaluate mattresses across performance categories. The following are the key guidelines that inform our performance ratings. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best purchase decision for you.
Construction analysis: Our rating system is grounded in construction. Each mattress rating is derived at the intersection of quality, value, and versatility across a range of sleepers. We look at the bed’s price point, materials, firmness options, comfort and support systems, cooling technology, as well as brand reputation, and then we perform a detailed analysis that measures performance across six different categories to arrive at an overall score.
Quantitative product testing: During these hands-on lab tests, our team uses various tools and technology to evaluate a bed’s performance against motion isolation, pressure relief, temperature control, ease of movement, edge support, and potential for odor emissions. We use the outcomes from these tests to calculate a score for each category.
Field testing: Our field testers sleep on mattresses and other sleep products, like pillows, sheets, and mattress toppers, in their own bedrooms. After weeks of at-home testing, each field tester provides a detailed analysis of how the mattress performs, including what they like and dislike about the bed. We sought feedback from testers across all sleep positions and weight groups, but we focused especially on testers who sleep on their stomach or weigh more than 230 pounds since these sleepers tend to prefer firmer beds.
User feedback: Observations from mattress owners and users outside our team are invaluable to our research. We draw insight from surveys, sleep stories, and customer reviews to extract themes, fine-tune our ratings, and better understand how each product performs over time in a real-world setting.
How We Determine Our Overall Scores
To determine a mattress’s overall score, we assign weighted percentages to performance categories based on how important they are to the individual sleep experience. For instance, areas like pressure relief and temperature control tend to matter more to people than something like off-gassing, and because more people sleep on their side and back than on their stomach, we weigh those positions more heavily.
Performance Categories
Motion Isolation
This criteria alludes to the amount of motion a mattress absorbs when a sleeper moves on the surface. We use two testers lying side by side to evaluate motion isolation, who each feel for transfer while the other person moves on the mattress.
Temperature Control
To determine how well a mattress regulates temperature, we perform temperature tests and look closely at its materials and construction. Many mattresses are designed with cooling components meant to reduce heat retention.
Pressure Relief
A bed with strong pressure relief excels at preventing pressure from building up in areas like the shoulders and hips. Beds with even contouring and weight distribution are top performers when it comes to pressure relief.
Off-Gassing
A mattress in a box may release unpleasant chemical odors for a short period after you’ve unboxed it. The initial smell may be strong but typically fades within 2 or 3 days.
Ease of Movement
This criteria reflects how easily a sleeper can move across a bed’s surface. Responsive surfaces made of latex typically perform better than foam surfaces, which can inhibit movement.
Edge Support
We perform sit tests along a bed’s perimeter to measure how well the edges push back against weight. Mattresses with strong edge support have minimal sagging when sleepers sit on or lie close to the perimeter.
Dive Deeper – Mattress Guides by Specific Need
For more help deciding which mattress is right for your specific needs, check out the guides below.
Best Mattress for Specific Needs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a firm mattress better for back pain?
A firm mattress can help with back pain by promoting healthy sleep posture and neutral spinal alignment. However, the best mattress for back pain depends on the location and nature of the back pain as well as your preferred sleeping position.
“It’s important to note that ‘firm’ doesn’t necessarily mean ‘hard’,” says Dr. Cotliar. “The ideal mattress should provide support while still allowing for some give to accommodate the body’s natural curves.”
Is a firm mattress good for side sleepers?
A firm mattress may be a good choice for side sleepers over 230 pounds who can sink enough into the bed’s surface. A firm mattress may not be ideal for side sleepers under 230 pounds, as inadequate give can exert pressure on the shoulders and hips. A soft (3) to medium (5) mattress with more contouring provides better cushioning for lighter side sleepers.
Do firm mattresses last longer than soft mattresses?
While firmness can influence durability, we’ve found that its lifespan is more about the mattress’s construction, materials, and usage. Latex, high-density polyfoam, and hybrid mattresses often last longer than traditional innerspring and beds with lower-density foam that tend to degrade faster.
How can you make a mattress firmer?
Buying a mattress with the right level of firmness is the best way to ensure a consistent feel, but there are several ways to make a mattress firmer. A firm mattress topper can change the surface of the mattress, but won’t make up for sagging that happens over time in softer models. Rotating the mattress regularly may help with sagging due to a mattress’s age.
What is the best mattress firmness for couples?
Couples may have a tough time choosing a mattress if they have different firmness preferences. Some couples solve this by choosing a firmness level that’s between the two, with medium-firm (6) being a common choice for couples where one partner likes a firm mattress and the other likes a softer sleep surface. Others go for a split mattress, which allows for a different firmness level on each side.
Is a hard mattress good for posture?
A firm mattress can support healthy sleep posture by keeping the spine on an even plane. However, it’s crucial that the mattress isn’t excessively hard, as it should adapt to the body’s curves for optimal support. This means finding a firmness level that works for an individual’s weight and sleeping position.
“It is important to try out several mattresses and find the optimal one that provides the most support and comfort since one-third of our lives are spent sleeping,” says Dr. Vyas.
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.
Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Jackson leads editorial product recommendations at Sleep Foundation, transforming the data from our sleep product test lab into real world takeaways for consumers. He has spent over half a decade developing protocol to evaluate and measure the impacts of products on sleep quality. As a cited sleep product expert, Jackson helps guide millions of shoppers to find personalized recommendations for everything from pillows to bedding to mattresses.
Dustin Cotliar, MD, holds a medical degree from the State University of NY (SUNY) Downstate College of Medicine, and a master’s in public health from Columbia University, where he focused on healthcare policy and management. He is board-certified in Emergency Medicine, with over eight years of practice that includes emergency medicine, urgent care, and telemedicine.