Firm mattresses are uncomfortable. At least that’s what people tend to think. Why do they get such a bad rap? It doesn’t make sense – they have a lot to offer, both in comfort and customization. Plus, firm mattresses benefit many types of sleep styles you may not have known.
Let’s delve into the details of firm mattresses: the materials, myths and benefits of this misunderstood mattress –
What Types of Firm Mattresses Exist?
As a custom mattress manufacturer, we offer several construction options for mattresses, all of which can be tailored to the firmness you’re looking for:
Memory Foam
The go-to in modern mattresses, memory foam offers unmatched contouring and a feeling of laying in something that fits your body perfectly. It can be customized to firm, but it tends to perform better at medium-firm and medium-soft levels.
Latex
Latex is a better option for people looking for something like memory foam but that offers more support. Latex mattresses typically offer better motion isolation and responsiveness than memory foam, offering optimal pressure relief and support, even on the firm side.
Pocket Coil
The new take on innerspring mattresses, pocket coils offer targeted support and can be tailored to different firmness levels via size and thickness of the springs.
Hybrid
A combination of memory foam and innerspring, hybrid mattresses are perhaps the most customizable in terms of firmness, as you combine the contouring comfort of memory foam with the targeted support of pocket coils.
3 Misconceptions About Firm Mattresses
Firm mattresses get a bad name. Think about it: most people imagine uncomfortable beds that are stiff and unforgiving. Three common myths about custom firm mattresses:
Myth #1: Firm mattresses are uncomfortable.
With custom options for construction and whatever “firm” means to you – not so! The right firmness level for your body type and sleeping preferences can lead to a surprisingly comfortable and supportive sleep experience.
Myth #2: Only young people can sleep on firm mattresses.
Age isn't a factor. And, in fact, the supportive benefits of a firm mattress may help older adults with back problems finally get some rest. Anyone who benefits from the support and alignment of a firm mattress can enjoy its advantages, regardless of age.
Myth #3: Firm mattresses cause back pain.
Actually, this is often the opposite! Many back pain sufferers find relief from the consistent support and pressure relief of a firm custom mattress. Consult your doctor for personalized advice about your specific condition.
10 Advantages of Sleeping on a Firm Mattress
Now that we’ve looked at the ins and outs of firm mattresses and dispelled some misconceptions, let’s talk benefits – because supportive mattresses have a lot to offer many types of sleepers:
1. Improved Spinal Alignment
Firm mattresses offer consistent support throughout your body, preventing sinking and ensuring proper alignment of your spine. This can significantly reduce aches and pains, especially in the lower back, and improve overall posture.
2. Pressure & Pain Relief
For people with specific pain conditions like sciatica or spinal stenosis, a firm mattress can provide targeted support and help alleviate pressure points. Consult your doctor to determine if a firm mattress would be beneficial for your specific condition.
3. Reduced Motion Transfer
If you share your bed, a supportive mattress minimizes motion transfer between partners. This means less disruption to your sleep, no matter how troubled a sleeper your partner or pet is. Partners who have opposite schedules should consider a firm mattress for this purpose.
4. Muscle Engagement
Sleeping on a firm surface encourages your core muscles to engage slightly for postural support. This can lead to improved abdominal strength that can stabilize and improve posture over time.
5. Cooler Sleep
Firm mattresses generally have better air circulation than softer options, preventing heat buildup and creating a cooler sleeping environment. This is especially beneficial for hot sleepers or those living in warm climates.
6. Weight Management? Maybe.
Some studies suggest that sleeping on a supportive mattress may contribute to improved weight management by increasing calorie expenditure due to the slight muscle engagement required for maintaining posture.
7. No Sinking Feeling
Unlike softer mattresses where some people sink in and start to feel stuck, a firm surface provides immediate support and prevents that uncomfortable stuck feeling. A firm mattress can be especially helpful for heavier people or people who prefer a more grounded sleep experience.
8. Durability & Longevity
Firm mattresses, especially those with high-quality materials like latex or pocket coils, tend to be more durable and last longer than softer options. This makes them a better long-term investment.
9. Improved Sleep Posture
A firm mattress helps maintain proper sleeping posture by preventing excessive tossing and turning throughout the night. This can lead to a more restful sleep and an easier time getting out of bed in the morning.
10. Less Snoring
For some, the consistent support of a firm mattress can help open up airways and minimize snoring via encouraging proper spinal alignment.
Who’s Best Suited for Firmer Mattresses?
Firm mattresses aren’t for everybody or every body (get it?), but they are a smart option for many people. This is largely due to their ability to support posture, spinal alignment and hip alignment without sinking into the mattress. Best fits for firm mattresses include:
Back sleepers
Stomache sleepers
People with back pain
People who sleep hot
People who are overweight
Light sleepers
People who move a lot in their sleep
People who dislike the sinking feeling of foam mattresses
Thinking a firm mattress might be the right fit for you? Consult our expert mattress team for more advice on how to design your perfect custom mattress.
Comments