How are we supposed to decide the firmness of the mattress especially when there are thousands of different mattress models available? Each merchant uses a different firmness grading system, and they are all annoyingly confusing.
Every mattress consumer should ask themself one question: Do I want a soft, medium, or firm mattress? This is an excellent place to start because the firmness of the mattress will significantly impact how supported or comfy you feel when lying on it. Yes, a lot of it comes down to personal preference, but both hard and soft mattresses have some more definite advantages and disadvantages.
To assist all those perplexed mattress purchasers in determining which is best for them, we have put together this soft vs medium vs firm mattress guide. Also, Natural latex mattresses in India are more affordable than mattresses made of other materials since they are more durable.
What Is the Difference Between a Firm, Medium, and Soft Mattress?
Each type of mattress, from plush to extra firm mattresses, is best suited for various sleep patterns, body types, and personal preferences. For instance, a firm mattress offers more support for people with back issues than a soft mattress is best for side sleepers.
A mattress’s firmness varies depending on its composition and production techniques. In general, a pocket coil structure providing support that also avoids sagging may be present in an extra-firm mattress. More layers of specialty foam could be used in a soft mattress to provide a plush overall sensation.
How is Mattress Firmness Measured?
A mattress’ firmness is normally rated on a scale of 1 to 10.
- 1/10 – Very soft; the body will sink in completely. This soft mattress is quite uncommon.
- 2-3/10 – soft; the body will drastically sink in. Usually appropriate for side sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds.
- 4/10 – a plush surface that is moderately soft, conforms well, and sinks less.
- 5/10 – medium, with little sinkage and a good combination of conforming and stiffness.
- 6/10 – medium firm, slightly less conforming, and firmer feeling.
- 7-8/10 – solid, minor sinking, no sinking. typically chosen by sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds.
- 9–10/10 – Extra firm, very hard surface with no conforming. This stiffness of a mattress is uncommon.
On the firmness scale, the great majority of mattresses fall between 4 and 7 out of 10. Most people find that this range is comfortable. Very soft and very firm beds are offered by specialty manufacturers, but these are much less frequent.
What is a Soft Mattress?
Sleeping on a soft mattress can be somewhat like lying on a cloud. They have the lowest stiffness rating that you are likely to discover (3 of 10). This offers you the least amount of spinal support, yet it relieves the most pressure from your joints and pressure points. For those who require a lot of lift, gentler feels might not be the best.
Soft Mattress is Best For:
People Weighing Less than 54 Kilograms
Individuals Less than 120-pound individuals do not apply the same downward pressure to their mattresses as heavier individuals. Medium and firm mattresses can feel uncomfortable as a result.
Smaller, lighter sleepers might discover that a soft mattress cradles and contours their bodies while offering just the right amount of support to keep their spine straight.
People Who Have Trouble Sleeping in Cold Rooms
Soft mattresses allow the sleeper to sink into the mattress, giving off a nice, cosy feeling. If you are the type of sleeper that covers up several blankets, this can be a terrific quality. Soft mattresses tend to enclose sleepers and trap heat, keeping them snug and comfortable.
What is Medium Mattress?
The most adaptable (and well-liked) mattresses on the market are medium-sized mattresses. They rate a 5 out of 10 for firmness since they perfectly balance cushion and support. A medium mattress will supply both in equal amounts, whereas firmer mattresses offer more support and softer mattresses offer more cushion.
Medium Mattress is Best For:
1. Side Sleepers
Your shoulders, torso, and hips will be supported in a way that contours your body, reducing pressure areas. Additionally, medium-firm mattresses keep you from sinking too far into the bed, resulting in improved cooling and ventilation.
2. Average Weight Sleepers
Sleepers often range in weight from 130 to 230 pounds. Many average-weight sleepers can function very well on a medium mattress, especially back sleepers who like a softer sensation and combo sleepers.
3. People Who Sleep With a Partner
If you share a bed with a partner who prefers a firm mattress and you would prefer a medium mattress, a medium-firm mattress is ideal. The medium-firm mattress is the ideal compromise that will satisfy you both.
What is a Firm Mattress?
We define a firm mattress as anything graded at 7 or higher on our firmness scale. Nevertheless, depending on their body weight, some persons may perceive a 7 rating as more medium-firm. A bed will typically feel softer to heavier sleepers than it will to lighter ones, and vice versa. Another preferred option is medium-firm, which is also the most typical range used by manufacturers because it is the most adaptable. Ratings for medium-firm beds range from 5 to 7. These versions frequently offer reliable support while maintaining essential pressure alleviation.
Firm Mattress is Best For:
1. Stomach Sleepers
People who prefer to sleep on their stomachs want a mattress that provides adequate support for their entire body, particularly for the area beneath their hips. The necessary amount of support under the hips should be provided by a firm mattress to maintain the spine’s natural neutral posture.
2. Some Back Sleepers
While most back sleepers would benefit from selecting a medium-firm mattress, others could discover that a firm mattress is a better fit. Back sleeping could be possible if the mattress permits a small amount of hip sinkage. A mattress may not be the greatest choice for back sleepers if it is overly soft.
3. Larger People
Overweight sleepers typically need more support than a soft mattress can provide. More support is typically provided by firmer mattresses, which should also be able to accommodate larger body weights.
Final Thoughts
Buying a mattress may be a stressful experience as online shoppers have access to hundreds of mattresses in a variety of sizes and types. A mattress purchase entails a big financial commitment as well, so you should give it some thought. Your body type and preferred sleeping positions will determine the ideal mattress firmness for you. There is the perfect firmness for everyone so choose wisely!
Also, you can look for an organic mattress from aloha, India if you want to sleep as blissfully as if you were on a cloud. If you are in the market for a mattress, you can refer to our Mattress Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Mattress? It will help you choose the ideal mattress for you.