Do I Need a Soft or Firm Mattress?

Pillow tops, latex, hybrid, ultra-plush, ultra-firm, ultra-soft—the choices can seem endless when it comes to shopping for a new mattress. There’s no set formula for finding the perfect mattress, as everyone has unique sleeping preferences, health concerns, and body types. The only sure way to know that you purchase the best mattress for you is to visit a showroom and try them out for yourself.

When you come to Mattress World Northwest, you can try out our extensive inventory at your own pace. Our Sleep Specialists are always available to lend their knowledge, but also give you the space you need to make your own decision.

Sorting through the choices

The most basic way to classify mattress firmness levels is to use the labels soft, medium, and firm. But when you start checking out different mattress models, you’ll find that the different brands use their own lingo to describe firmness levels. You might see labels like relaxed firm, luxury firm, plush, ultra-plush pillow top, extra firm, and luxury firm pillow top. Wading through the plethora of superlatives might seem overwhelming, but it’s easier done than said.

Firmness levels that seem to combine firm with soft—like relaxed firm and firm pillow top—typically combine the support of a firm mattress with the comfort of a soft mattress. On the other hand, plush, plush pillow top, and ultra-plush pillow top all refer to varying degrees of mattress “give” and softness.

Consider your body type

So which firmness level is right for you? There are a number of factors you can consider, including your body type. Heavier sleepers tend to prefer a firmer, more supportive mattress, whereas lighter sleepers may prefer a softer choice that offers more “sinkage.”

Your preferred sleeping position

Most people tend to favor one sleeping position over another, and the majority of people are side sleepers. As a general rule of thumb, people who most often sleep on their sides tend to prefer mattresses that are on the softer side. This is because the mattress can hug the body right at the main pressure points—the hips and shoulders. Softer mattresses also allow more “give” to accommodate the arm that gets placed between the body and the mattress.

Stomach sleepers, on the other hand, tend to choose firmer mattresses. These mattresses prevent the pelvis and hips from sinking low into the bed, which would create significant pressure on the spine.

Back sleepers have more leeway. The pressure on their bodies is generally distributed more evenly, which means back sleepers can usually be comfortable on a mattress of any firmness level.

Of course, these are just general guidelines. To figure out which firmness level is right for you, you can take a tour of a Mattress World Northwest showroom near you in Portland. Get a jumpstart on your shopping trip by checking out our inventory online (be sure to check our current savings offers) or give us a call at (503) 713-6572. We look forward to helping you get the best sleep of your life.

Additional “Mattress Types for your Body Type” Resources:

WebMD, How to Pick Your Perfect Mattress, https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/how-to-pick-your-perfect-mattress
Dengarden, How to Choose the Best Mattress for your Body Type, https://dengarden.com/interior-design/How-to-Choose-the-Best-Mattress-for-your-Body-Type

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