Shopping for a mattress can be simpler when you already have an idea of which type you might prefer. When choosing a mattress, deciding between a firm and a soft one can have an impact on your overall sleep experience. Since the right choice largely depends on personal preference, it can be helpful to work through a few steps to determine which option may suit your sleep needs best. Use this guide to decide whether a firm or plush new mattress might be the better choice for you.
Start By Considering Your Sleeping Position
One easy way to begin narrowing down your options is to pick a firmness level based on how you position your body as you sleep. Side sleepers may benefit from additional cushioning around pressure points like the hips and shoulders to prevent discomfort. Stomach sleepers often find that a firmer mattress can help keep the spine aligned more effectively. Back sleepers generally prefer mattresses with a moderate firmness level to maintain proper support.
Think About Your General Body Type
As a general guideline, people with lighter body weights may not experience as much sinking into plush mattresses. Conversely, those with a heavier body type might find that sinking too deeply into a soft mattress could affect spinal alignment. If you have a smaller frame, a softer mattress may help relieve pressure on your bones and joints. Since your body type may change over time, it’s important to choose a level of firmness that you expect will remain comfortable for several years.
Assess What You’ll Like In a New Mattress
By now, you’ve likely spent quite a bit of time on your current mattress. Take a moment to reflect on how it has felt both initially and as it has aged. If you’ve found it too firm from the start, you may want to look into plush mattress options. On the other hand, if you’ve noticed that your bed feels like it has developed a “dip” in the middle, it might be time to consider a firmer mattress.
Consider the Impact of Support for Pain Relief
Since you spend many hours each night on your bed, it’s essential to think about how your mattress influences your overall comfort. Constantly tossing and turning from discomfort—whether from back pain or sore shoulders—can affect your ability to sleep soundly. Additionally, waking up with lower back pain can lead to a rough start to the day. If you experience chronic back pain or have noticed an increase in aches as you age, selecting a mattress that offers the right balance of support may help provide some relief. Choosing mattresses that blend softness and support could potentially allow you to wake up with fewer aches and pains.
Your mattress preference may change over time, and it’s not unusual to find that you want a firmer or softer mattress as your sleeping habits evolve. When it’s time for a new mattress, consider how your current sleep quality might improve with a different firmness level. Finding the right combination of softness and support can help you achieve better rest, which, in turn, can positively impact the rest of your day.
