Some mattress brands have started labelling their mattresses in this category as "universal comfort" or "universal firmness" since they're so popular with the average-size sleeper as well as a wide array of sleep positions. Additionally, these mattresses tend to stay a bit cooler since materials hug the body less snugly, so less heat is trapped.Īverage-size sleepers, or those weighing anywhere between 130 and 230 pounds, tend to especially enjoy this firmness level as well as medium-soft. Their body-cradling qualities help alleviate pressure, and the support holds the sleeper's spinal alignment in check, alleviating back pain. They offer a moderate amount of support, less sinkage than the lower-numbered levels, and are suitable for different body types. Mattresses on the 6, 7, and 8 levels of firmness also appeal to a broad range of sleepers. This makes softer mattresses appealing they can lie on them without sinking in too much - just enough to enjoy the cushion and contouring. And since they tend to stay on top of the uppermost surface of a bed, they don't generally put as much pressure on a mattress. This is because when lighter folks lie down, they don't sink in very much. Softer mattresses are usually ideal for lighter sleepers, or those weighing 130 pounds or less. Some softer varieties may also trap heat more easily as they allow foam and other contouring materials to fill in close to the body without much air flow. This means that extra-soft beds can be expected to last fewer years than firmer ones. Since the materials that make up plush beds are softer, they are also known to deteriorate faster. It can cause them to sink in too deeply, leading to improper spinal alignment and possible back or joint pain and stiffness over time. While soft mattresses do feel snug and cozy to some, others may find this firmness level makes them feel stuck or uncomfortable when lying in bed - especially heavier folks or those with mobility issues. For example, a soft mattress may have a 4-inch thick layer of memory foam in the comfort layer, while a firmer variety has only 2 inches. Between the comfort system and support core are transition layers, which act as a cushion or buffer between the two.ĭifferent types of foam in the comfort layer and how thick it is can be the determining factors in how firm the mattress is. The comfort system, designed to alleviate pressure points (think shoulders and hips), tends to be made of memory foam, polyfoam and/or latex, while the support core often comprises less malleable and reinforcing layers of materials like steel coils, adjustable air chambers, high-density polyfoam or firm latex. Most mattresses consist of a "comfort system" layer above a supportive core layer. So, in order to get an accurate idea of what mattress firmness really means for you, let's first look at how mattresses are typically designed.
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