Would Side Sleepers Like a Medium Firm Bed?
Side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds often feel comfortable on a medium firm (6) mattress. Those under 130 pounds, however, might need a softer model that offers a closer hug. Side sleepers over 230 pounds generally prefer either a medium firm (6) or firm (7) mattress.
Is a Medium Firm Mattress Good for Your Back?
A mattress that promotes back health combines pressure relief with adequate spinal support. A medium firm model can strike this balance, especially for sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. Softer mattresses that allow the body to sink excessively can cause lumbar strain, while an excessively firm surface won’t ease tension along the spine.
Since relative feel and support depends on your sleep position and body weight, make sure to consider these factors before choosing a medium firm mattress.
Other Ways to Make Your Bed More Comfortable
While a mattress is essential to getting a good night’s rest, a number of other factors can also improve sleep quality.
Extra Pillows Can Be Useful
With so much focus on the mattress, shoppers sometimes overlook the importance of pillows when it comes to contouring and support. A pillow that works with your sleep style can add measurable pressure relief.
Side sleepers usually do best with a medium or high loft pillow that closes the gap between the neck and shoulders, which helps align the spine. Using a bolster pillow between the knees can also even spinal alignment and alleviate pressure at the hips and lower back. Moldable materials like feathers, down alternative fibers, and shredded memory foam or latex are great for side sleepers who like to fold their pillows in half.
Most back sleepers prefer a medium loft pillow that keeps the neck on a straighter plane. Stomach sleepers need a thinner pillow so that the head doesn’t arch back too much, which creates an unhealthy curve in the spine.
Consider Buying a Split King for You and Your Partner
For co-sleepers with very different sleep preferences, sometimes compromising on one firmness level isn’t possible. Couples with greater budget flexibility might consider a split king frame that can accommodate two twin XL mattresses. This way each person can choose their preferred feel based on sleep position and body weight.
You Could Also Use a Mattress Topper for Extra Pressure Relief
Sometimes you can postpone buying a new bed by using a mattress topper. Usually between 1 and 3 inches thick, a topper is added to a bed’s surface and can make a firmer mattress feel plusher.
For couples with very different sleep preferences, a topper can be used on one side of the bed to alter its feel. Mattress toppers are useful for making small adjustments to comfort, but they aren’t a substitute for a mattress that needs to be replaced.
Make Sure Your Mattress Has Proper Support
Even a very high-quality mattress won’t be able to perform optimally if your bed foundation is worn-out or wasn’t properly assembled. An inadequate frame or base won’t support you or your mattress, as premature sagging is more likely to occur. Weak support usually translates to improper spine alignment and more aches and pains. Creaking is a tell-tale sign that your foundation needs to be adjusted or replaced entirely.
