Are you on the hunt for the most comfortable soft mattress? Or you prefer a firm mattress to address your back aches?
With the overwhelming number of mattresses online, it’s incredibly challenging to find the best one that suits all your needs. One of the most significant decisions that you’ll make is whether to buy a firm or softer mattress.
To end this tricky decision-making process, we’ll list the benefits and downsides of both mattress types, as well as the considerations when choosing your mattress.
What Does Mattress Firmness Mean?
Mattress firmness is measured on a scale of 1–10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest. This scale involves various mattress firmness levels, namely: very soft, soft, medium, medium firm, and extra firm. These may differ for every retailer. Megafurniture follows the same 1–10 scale, considering anything above 7 as a firmer variety. However, other sleepers may consider this a medium-firm feel, depending on their body type. Here’s a more detailed scale for your reference:
|
Scale |
Firmness Level |
|
1-2 |
Very Soft |
|
3-4 |
Soft |
|
5-6 |
Medium/ Medium Firm |
|
7-8 |
Firm |
|
9-10 |
Very Firm |
The firmness of the mattress depends on its construction and choice of materials. Generally, innerspring mattresses are firmer than foam beds. This is because of the metal springs that support the mattress. Dense latex mattresses also offer firmer and bouncer support.
The popular memory foam mattress belongs to the softer end of the spectrum, with contouring comfort as one of its major determining features. Hybrid mattresses with thicker comfort layers are also softer than regular mattresses. All these mattresses come in different price ranges.
Soft Mattress
If you love the hugging, cloudy feel that you see in many mattress commercials, a soft mattress can be a great choice. Soft mattresses offer a comfortable sinking feeling that many sleepers prefer.
Benefits of a Soft Mattress
Soft mattresses are recommended for side sleepers who need some extra shrinkage for their shoulders and hips. They are also helpful for people with back problems by thoroughly targeting their pressure points. If you suffer from joint and hip pain, this mattress's firmness is also ideal.
A soft foam mattress is extremely comfortable for sleepers who want to sink into their mattresses. Do you prefer a hugging sensation when sleeping? If so, a soft mattress might be an amazing solution.
Soft mattresses are also ideal for couples that share their mattresses due to their ability to absorb body movements. This results in a restful and undisturbed sleep.
Drawbacks of a Soft Mattress
One of the major drawbacks of soft mattresses is their lack of push-back comfort. Although they efficiently target pressure points, they may cause a feeling of being stuck on the mattress due to too much sinkage. Some soft foam mattresses also trap heat, making it hard for hot sleepers to achieve a restful slumber.
Firm Mattress
Many mattress shoppers prefer firm mattresses because they offer a bouncy feel with the right amount of pushback support. Many firm mattresses in Singapore are made from high-quality latex foam or innersprings.
Benefits of Firm Mattresses
Firm beds are excellent for maintaining the proper alignment of your spine during rest, especially if you struggle with back issues. Due to its "sleeping on a mattress" feel, a firm mattress allows proper air circulation, giving you adequate oxygen intake during rest. This can improve your blood flow and reduce your stress levels!
Firmer mattresses offer proper support for heavier sleepers without the discomfort of sinking or body misalignment.
Drawbacks of a Firm Mattress
Although firm mattresses offer great posture support, they are not as conforming as softer mattresses. Thus, you might not expect the same level of pressure relief from your firm mattress. Stomach sleepers might also find this mattress type less comfortable.
Firm or Soft Mattress: Which One Do I Need?
Both soft and firm mattresses are comfortable, depending on your body’s needs. Soft mattresses excellently follow movements. They compress under pressure, giving a hugging feel that targets your pressure points. Firm mattresses, on the other hand, do not easily compress under pressure, providing more robust support during sleep.
Choosing between a soft or firm mattress depends on your comfort preference, sleeping conditions, and body type.
Personal Preference
Sleepers who prefer a plush feel will find comfort when using a firm mattress, while those who want a little bit of pushback will favour a firm mattress. If you enjoy the sinking feel of your soft mattress, then it is the best firmness for you. If you find yourself feeling restless on your soft mattress, choose one from the firmer end of the spectrum.
Body Weight
Your weight can determine the amount of pressure that you will apply to your mattress. Ultimately, a comfortable mattress will maintain a healthy amount of sinkage and support. Sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds may prefer a softer bed, while plus-sized users may find a firmer bed more beneficial. This will prevent uncomfortable shrinkage and the unnecessary feeling of being stuck in the mattress.
Sleeping Position
One of the most important determining factors when buying a new mattress is your sleeping position. Side sleepers, specifically, may need a softer sleep surface to sink their hips and shoulders into. Back sleepers will appreciate both the sinking feel of a soft mattress and the pushing-back support of a firm bed. Stomach sleepers, on the other hand, will benefit from a firm mattress that won’t allow their stomach to shrink, preventing lower back pain.
FAQs
If I buy a firm mattress, will it soften over time?
Yes, a firm mattress will soften with every use. New mattresses are generally firmer at first, but they will eventually reach a comfortable softness when used. This is why we recommend buying a mattress with a long trial period to give you enough time to get used to your new mattress.
How about a medium-firm mattress?
Medium-firm mattresses are ideal for combination sleepers, couples with different sleeping styles, and people who suffer from back pain. This provides a balance between pressure relief and pushback support.
Conclusion
Your mattress's firmness greatly impacts your sleep quality and body comfort. When choosing between a soft and a firm bed, always consider the critical factors that we listed above for a worthwhile and fulfilling mattress investment.