Which mattress firmness do I need to be comfortable? Watch the video below to learn which mattress firmness level you should try.
Mattress firmness should not be confused with support. An extra firm mattress and very soft pillow top mattress can both offer excellent support for proper body alignment and a quality night’s sleep, but their initial feel is different. Mattress firmness refers to the initial feel of a mattress. However, there are many names associated with mattresses based on their upholstery styles and firmness. This firmness guide is meant to clarify some of the labeling, but it is very important to try the mattress before purchasing. For the most satisfaction and the best night’s sleep, it’s important to find the right mattress. That involves lying on a mattress in-store to test its firmness and comfort level. Don’t make the mistake of purchasing a mattress based on the label without knowing if it’s comfortable for you! Curious what the difference between the levels is? Here are the firmness types explained:
Extra Firm and Ultra Firm Mattresses – This is a firm coil system with compressed, firm upholstery layers. Extra firm could be a good choice for sleepers that often lie on their back, but side sleepers should think twice before choosing an extra firm mattress. Sleeping with your shoulder or arm in-between your body on an extra firm mattress can reduce circulation and cause a limb to go numb inhibiting a good night’s sleep. extra, extra firm mattresses usually increase the rigidity of the coil system even further.
Firm Mattresses – There are a variety of sub-types of firm mattresses that describe an, “in-between” firm and soft mattress. However, a regular firm mattress usually has a thin upholstery layer of soft foam that softens the top of the mattress while the remaining upholstery is firmer foam to give the mattress a very solid, firm comfort-feel. This could be a good choice for those that sleep primarily on their back, as well as primarily stomach sleepers. Side sleepers should try a slightly softer mattress firm to plush firms, cushion firms, and luxury firm mattresses. Be sure before purchasing a firm mattress.
Plush Firms, Cushion Firms and Luxury Firm mattresses – Whatever these mattresses firmness levels are titled, they are all in-between firm and soft. This is often a mattress that couples with differing comfort preference can compromise on. It has soft enough upholstery to provide a comfortable sleeping surface for stomach, back, and side sleepers, without causing issues with numbness or lack of circulation.
Pillow Tops, Euro Tops, Plush Pillow Tops and Ultra Plush Mattresses – These mattresses can vary greatly in firmness. These are usually the softest variety of mattresses with thick upholstery layers of softer materials, but the firmness of the foam inside will vary greatly. Euro tops have a distinguishable top, but it is not stitched separately for a sleeker look, while pillow tops have a separately stitched top layer. Ultra plush is like a plush, but with a much thicker upholstery layering making it look more like a pillow top.
Again, it is very important to know what is in these mattresses. Many companies will produce mattresses with a false loft that increases its thickness, but not its quality level.
