A restful night’s sleep is essential for our overall well-being, and the key to achieving that restful sleep lies in the comfort and support offered by our mattresses. While some individuals may prefer the soft, cushioning feel of a plush mattress, others find comfort in the firm, supportive structure of a firmer mattress. Fortunately, if your current mattress feels too soft, there’s no need to immediately purchase a new one.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to make your existing mattress feel firmer and more supportive.
Who Should Choose a Firm Mattress?
When comparing firm vs. soft mattresses, firm mattresses are particularly beneficial for stomach sleepers, some back sleepers, larger individuals, hot sleepers, and those with mobility issues.
If you think a firm mattress might be right for you, be sure to explore some of the best extra-firm mattresses available.
How to Make a Mattress Firmer
If you’re looking to make your mattress firmer than it currently is, here are several options to consider:
Flip Your Mattress
Flipping your mattress can make it feel firmer by ensuring the even distribution of the filling. However, it’s essential to check the care instructions of your mattress first, as many modern mattresses are not designed to be flipped.
If flipping is not an option, consider rotating your mattress regularly instead.
Replace Worn-Out Layers
Some mattresses, such as the Brooklyn Bedding custom, come with replaceable comfort layers that allow you to adjust the mattress's firmness. If your bed feels too soft, you might be able to contact the manufacturer and request a replacement layer. This isn’t a common option, so make sure to review the company’s policies first.
Add a Mattress Topper
While most mattress toppers make beds feel softer, there are some firm mattress toppers designed to offer additional support. These can be especially helpful for stomach sleepers who are hesitant to buy a new mattress right away.
Replace Box Spring or Foundation
If your box spring is worn out or your foundation is sagging, your bed might feel softer than it should. Replacing these items can provide additional support without the cost of a new mattress.
Adjust the Thermostat
Memory foam mattresses are sensitive to temperature. They tend to feel firmer in cooler environments and softer in warmer environments. If you sleep on a foam mattress and keep your room warm, it could make your bed feel softer. Try adjusting the thermostat for a few days to see if it improves the firmness of your mattress.
Air It Out
Mattresses can become softer as they absorb moisture. While you may not be able to reverse this process entirely, airing out your mattress regularly in the sun can slow it down. This not only helps your mattress feel firmer but also kills bacteria, mildew, and viruses!
Add Plywood Support
If your foundation or base is sagging and you don’t want to purchase a new one, you can add a piece of plywood under your mattress for extra support. This creates a firmer and more even base, making your mattress feel much firmer.
Move Mattress to the Floor
Another solution to a sagging foundation is to move your mattress directly onto the floor. This ensures a firm, even surface for your mattress.
It's important to note, however, that placing your mattress on the floor can promote mold and mildew growth. If you choose this option, make sure to air it out regularly.
The Best Firm Mattresses
There are plenty of excellent firm mattress options available. Here are a few of our top recommendations:
Saatva
Saatva offers a range of firm mattresses, with the Saatva Classic providing a bouncy innerspring feel, ideal for stomach sleepers. Larger individuals may want to opt for the Saatva HD mattress, which offers superior support and is less prone to sagging over time. Plus, all Saatva mattresses come with free white glove delivery.
WinkBeds
The WinkBed is available in four different firmness levels. The firm model is perfect for average-weight individuals, while the WinkBed Plus offers more support for heavier sleepers.
Helix
The Helix Dawn mattress is a hybrid design that offers excellent support. It is ideal for average-weight back sleepers and lighter stomach sleepers. If you're unsure which Helix mattress suits you best, take their mattress quiz, which matches you with the perfect model based on your body type and sleep position.
DreamCloud
The DreamCloud mattress is a luxurious hybrid option that offers ample support at an affordable price. This firm mattress is perfect for seniors and most back sleepers.
Why Is Firmness Important?
While preferences for mattress firmness vary, it’s crucial to select a mattress that supports proper spinal alignment and minimizes back pain.
A mattress that is too firm can push against your spine uncomfortably, while a mattress that is too soft won’t provide adequate lumbar support.
Benefits of a Firm Mattress
Firm mattresses offer numerous benefits for different types of sleepers. Here’s how they help:
Back Sleepers
Firm mattresses are a great option for many back sleepers because they help maintain spinal alignment. With even pressure distribution across the body, back sleepers often wake up with fewer aches and pains.
Stomach Sleepers
For stomach sleepers, a firm mattress is the best choice because it prevents the hips from sinking out of alignment. Soft mattresses can cause the stomach to sag into the bed, curving the spine inward and leading to discomfort.
Heavy Individuals
Heavier individuals tend to sleep better on a firm mattress, as it provides the necessary support for their spine. Mattresses that are too soft will quickly sag and fail to keep the spine aligned properly. For a comprehensive list of recommended mattresses for heavier sleepers, check out our Best Mattresses for Heavy People guide.
Final Thoughts
A well-chosen firm mattress offers more than just better rest—it promotes proper posture, spinal alignment, and overall health. By applying the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you can craft a firmer mattress and invest in a more rejuvenating sleep experience.
FAQs
Is there such a thing as a firm mattress topper?
Yes, there are several great firm mattress toppers, including options like the Avocado Latex topper and the TitanFlex topper.
How can I firm up my sagging mattress?
While you can’t fully restore a sagging mattress, there are several ways to improve its firmness. These include flipping your mattress, replacing worn-out layers, adding a mattress topper, replacing the box spring or foundation, cooling the room, adding plywood beneath the mattress, or moving the mattress to the floor.
Does putting plywood under a mattress make it firmer?
While adding plywood won’t change the firmness of the mattress itself, it helps evenly distribute the mattress’s weight, making it feel firmer and more supportive.
Will a box spring make a mattress firmer?
Replacing old box springs can enhance your mattress’s ability to support your weight, effectively making it feel firmer.
Can a mattress become harder?
Though mattresses typically soften over time, if your mattress feels harder, it could be due to trapped moisture, which increases density. Additionally, memory foam responds to temperature, so a colder room may make the mattress feel firmer.
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