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Investing in a decent firm mattress is a great option for back, stomach and heavier people who crave the feel of a sturdy sleep surface. But which one should you buy?
We measure mattress firmness on a scale, with 10 being the firmest. We’ve tested plenty of firm mattresses when curating our guide to the best mattress for all sleepers and budgets, from eight to 10 on the scale. We've narrowed down our favorites to the eight best firm mattresses on the market today.
Our expert panel of mattress testers tried every bed here to bring you this varied list of firm beds to suit different budgets, sleep positions, and sleep needs.
As well as offering excellent overall comfort and support, the best firm mattresses are crafted from high quality materials that prevent sagging over time, offering superior support for years to come.
Known for keeping the spine healthily aligned, the super-supportive firm mattress doesn’t have to feel hard or uncomfortable — and these much-loved beds prove it. Here are the best firm mattresses to shop in the mattress sales…
The top 5 firm mattresses at a glance
Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.
After re-testing the Bear Elite Hybrid are part of a rigorous new testing methodology, it has entered this guide as our top cooling firm mattress recommendation.
1. The best firm mattress of 2026
Our pick for the best firm mattress overall, you’re essentially getting two beds for one with the Plank Firm due to its flippable design. One side is marked firm (8 out of 10 on the firmness scale), and the other is extra firm (10 out of 10). Otherwise, it's a simple design featuring a 6” core of high-density foam for support, a layer of comfort foam, and a quilted top on the firm side. The extra firm side merely knocks out the comfort layer.
Alongside a wider review panel, Sr Sleep Writer Ruth Jones awarded the Plank Firm an impressive 4.5 out of 5 following a three week testing period. The extra firm side is suited to stomach and back sleepers who want as little give as possible. (You'll also find the Plank Firm in our guide to the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.) The firm side offers enough contouring for average and heavier-weight sleepers to feel comfortable. However, we would not recommend it for strict side sleepers.
If you experience lower back pain, the Plank is a fantastic option with firm lumbar support to keep your spine aligned and hips lifted. Motion isolation is excellent, but temperature regulation could be improved; if you’re a hot sleeper, Ruth recommends upgrading to the GlacioTex cooling cover (she woke sweating on several occasions.) The mid-range price tag is competitive for a specialist mattress, especially with an evergreen sale knocking at least 20% off the MSRP. (This rises to 25-30% at major sales events. You’ll also get a 120-night trial, a lifetime warranty, and free shipping to your door.
What our testers like about it...
✅ It’s supremely supportive for front and back sleepers: While we think the firm side has a wider appeal overall for its minimal cushioning, our testing panel were pleasantly surprised at how comfortable they found the extra firm side when resting on their backs and stomachs.
✅ Strong edges all around: Sit or lie on any corner or side — no matter which way you have the mattress flipped, you won’t have to worry about sliding overboard
✅ It’s built for larger bodies, too: With a max weight capacity of 950lbs, the all-foam Plank Firm gives it the edge over the Saatva Classic (#4) in this category.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Prone to overheating: The dense, heavy foams of the Plank make it great for support — not so much for airflow. There is the option to add a GlacioTex cooling cover, but we think the Aurora Luxe Hybrid (#6) will be a better fit for hot sleepers.
❌ Side sleeping is a no-no: The Plank doesn’t have the 'coziness' you’d expect from even a medium-firm mattress, and the pressure relief won’t be sufficient enough for most sleepers to avoid a dead hip, shoulder, or arm (as our main tester experienced).
The Plank Firm Mattress: Expert verdict
I spent over a month sleeping on the Plank Firm and while I was initially surprised by its total lack of coziness, the incredible support soon won me over. The Plank Firm is sturdy from corner to corner, so I can sit, lie, toss and turn without worrying sinking hips will cause back pain. Minimal cushioning means side sleeping is less comfortable, but when lying on my front or back, my spine is grateful.
- Learn more: Plank Firm mattress review
2. The best affordable firm mattress
Our top recommendation in our best cheap mattress guide, the Siena Memory Foam mattress offers superb performance for an incredibly reasonable price. This basic three-layer memory foam mattress is made by Resident Sleep, the parent company of Nectar and DreamCloud (also in this guide). That influence is obvious in the quality of the Siena’s construction and performance.
Siena rates its mattress at 6.5 out of 10, but all our testers felt it slept as a 9 out of 10, regardless of their stature or weight. We found the mattress particularly suited to stomach sleepers due to its firm support.
As you’d expect from an all-foam mattress, motion isolation is excellent, and it controls heat well for an all-foam bed. With its breathable top cover and the lack of a deep sink, we were pleasantly surprised not to overheat on it once, especially during testing one summer. (That said, we'd direct hot sleepers toward the Aurora Luxe further down this page.)
Siena's evergreen prices means a queen Memory Foam is always $359. You’ll also get a 180-night trial, a 10-year warranty, and free shipping to your door.
What our testers like about it...
✅ Supremely supportive for stomach sleepers: With an extra firm surface and minimal contouring, the Siena will prevent stomach sleepers' hips from sinking out of alignment. It'll also appeal to back sleepers who like a firm, almost flat surface.
✅ Surprisingly strong edges: This is considered a surprise because we're talking about a budget memory foam mattress. Such beds don't perform well in this category, but the Siena demonstrated otherwise.
✅ Superb value for money: The Siena looks and feels more like its mid-range sibling, the Nectar. Plus, you'll only pay as much as $499 for a king, with a 180-night trial included. No other budget mattress comes close.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Lacking in pressure relief for side sleepers: Stomach sleepers and some back sleepers will love the flat-and-firm surface of the Siena Mattress, but side sleepers and back sleepers who crave more contouring will be disappointed.
❌ Not for very hot sleepers: Memory foam is known to trap heat, but the Siena's lack of profound sinkage meant our testers didn't overheat. Still, we'd advise hot sleepers seek a hybrid or specialty cooling mattress.
Siena Memory Foam Mattress: Expert verdict
Our entire review panel could not believe they were sleeping on what's essentially a budget mattress in the Siena. While I'm not sure what its long-term durability will be like, I can confidently say this was a firm, sturdy mattress from the moment we unboxed it. The 180-night trial is impressive for such a low cost, as well.
- Read more: Siena Memory Foam mattress review
3. Best luxury firm mattress
The Saatva Classic is the best hybrid mattress you can buy, offering a premium mattress with options to suit all sleepers. We’ve tested and re-tested the Saatva, and it’s the highest-scoring mattress across the board.
While it’s available in three firmness options, it’s the firm option that'll appeal to readers of this article. However, don’t discount the luxury firm option, which did a fantastic job of suiting nearly all types of sleepers. You'll 'float' on this mattress rather than sink right into it.
The Saatva’s breathable Euro pillow top and gel-infused memory foam lumbar crown do a great job of relieving pressure points and keeping you cool. The double layer of coils provides support and motion isolation, making it one of the best mattresses for couples you can buy.
Pricewise, the Classic is $2,099 for a queen size but regular Saatva mattress sales see between $200-$400 off. As you’d expect from a premium brand, the Saatva Classic comes with generous benefits: a 365-night trial, a forever warranty, and free white glove delivery with removal of your old mattress. Do be warned that there’s a $99 returns fee.
What our testers like about it...
What we like about it…
✅ Designed for back pain relief: The high-density lumbar crown and Lumbar Zone Active Spinal Wire support the lower back and the keep spine aligned in any position. This design has earned the Saatva Classic accolades from the Congress of Chiropractic State Association and the American Chiropractic Association.
✅ Sturdy edges and customizable height: Sleepers with back pain need a mattress that won't sag when they sit on it, and the Saatva Classic has outstanding edge support. A customizable height allows you to tailor the mattress to your level of mobility, a plus if you want a luxury bed but can't manage anything too tall.
✅ Free white glove delivery: When your back hurts, the last thing you want to do is set up a heavy mattress. Saatva includes white glove delivery in the cost, along with removal of your old mattress and foundation if needed.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Not for heavier bodies: With a limit of 300lbs per side, the Saatva Classic is a hair above average. The DreamCloud above has the highest weight capacity on this list at 500lbs per side.
❌Expect to pay for returns: Many sleep brands offer free returns, but Saatva tacks a $99 fee in case you want to send your mattress back.
Saatva Classic: Expert Verdict
The Saatva Classic is the mattress I wish was sold in the UK where I live. It's our top best mattress pick and deservedly so, with three firmness options to suit all types of sleeper, white glove delivery, a 365-night trial and a forever warranty. It does a marvellous job of supporting the spine and aced every single one of our tests.
- Learn more: Saatva Classic mattress review
4. The best firm mattress for back pain
Another customizable mattress, the WinkBed is an upper mid-range hybrid featuring a dual-layer Euro pillow top, gel-infused foam, and zoned pocket springs for targeted lumbar support. Factor in the top-notch edge-to-edge support and it's an excellent choice for back pain sufferers who need to sit on the side of their bed to get up or down.
The standard firmness options are Soft, Luxury Firm and Firm, but there’s also the WinkBed Plus aimed at sleepers weighing over 300lbs. This mattress is designed slightly differently, with anti-sag foam and a latex support layer to keep heavier bodies supported.
The WinkBed is never sold at full MSRP. After a recent price hike, you can now expect to pay $1,799 (was $2,570) for a queen after a 30% off WinkBed mattress sale.
What our testers like about it...
What we like about it...
✅ Built to suit any body: Whether you're petite, plus size, or in between, there's a WinkBed that suits your build and desired level of firmness. Our testing panel says the Luxury Firm WinkBed should be comfortable for most people, but with four comfort levels to choose from, you won't have to compromise.
✅ All-over support and relief: All WinkBed models feature zoned support coils and specialty LumbarLayer foam to promote the spine's natural curve while relieving pressure from your joints. Our testing panel and WinkBed customers reported waking up without stiffness or severe discomfort when sleeping on this mattress.
✅ Super strong edges: The perimeter of the WinkBed has reinforced springs so you can sit comfortably when getting up or down, or take up as much of the sleep surface as possible without fear of falling overboard. This design also helps prevent premature sagging.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Lacks a luxe finish: The WinkBed is a bed-in-a-box. This is convenient for shipping but potentially diminishes its handcrafted design. The Saatva Classic is pricier, but it's delivered flat and feels more like a premium bed. We'd also argue that the DreamCloud (#6), a considerably cheaper bed-in-a-box, seems more luxe.
❌ Not for the hottest sleepers: Our testing panel slept temperature-neutral on the WinkBed, but very hot sleepers may not find the triple heat disperse technology powerful enough. For severe overheating, we recommend the Aurora Luxe (#3).
The WinkBed: Expert Verdict
WinkBeds targeted back support gets my vote as a lower back pain sufferer. I love the way that the mattress has been specifically designed to offer maximum lumbar support and the choice of four firmness options, including a mattress specifically designed for heavier sleepers means that the WinkBed should appeal to everyone, not just those looking for a firm mattress.
- Learn more: The WinkBed mattress review
5. The best firm cooling mattress
Its strong performance during testing late last year cemented the Bear Elite Hybrid as the best cooling mattress you can buy, helping keep hot sleepers cool in even the most challenging conditions. Open coils boost overall breathability of the bed, plus it's packed with actively cooling materials, such as Celliant (a synthetic fiber that converts body heat into infrared energy), Phase Change Materials (PCM) that absorb and release heat from the mattress, and copper-infused foams that conduct heat away from the body.
Customizable firmness options (Soft, Medium and Firm) make the Bear an excellent choice for those seeking a sturdier sleep surface than most other cooling beds on the market. At 14" high and consisting of five layers (including a Eurotop cover for pressure relief), the Bear is a statuesque mattress that wouldn't look out of place in a luxury hotel. Our lead tester Eve Davies credits it with giving her a "blissful" sleep, night after night.
Zoned and individually encased coils help support the lumbar region, making the Bear one of the best mattresses for back pain you can buy. However, it didn't perform as well as we would have liked during our motion isolation tests, which means that restless sleepers who share a bed should proceed with caution. Plus, support around the bed's edge is fairly average. If you're looking for a great cooling mattress that also boasts excellent motion isolation and edge support, check out the Saatva Classic at #3 instead.
What our testers like about it...
✅ Impressively cooling: Breathable construction and actively cooling materials means the Bear effectively helps wick away heat and moisture while you sleep, helping hot sleepers stay cool throughout the night.
✅ Customizable firmness: We like how you can choose between a Soft, Medium and Firm, depending on your body type and sleep style. Back, stomach and heavier bodies will appreciate the unyielding tension of the Firm.
✅ Zoned lumbar support: Those with back pain will appreciate the zoned, ergonomic support of the Bear, helping to lift and support the lumbar region and hold the spine in healthy alignment with the rest of the body.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Average motion isolation: We love how responsive the Bear is, which makes shifting positions a cinch. However, the downside to that is that you can feel a bit of movement along the surface of the mattress when sharing a bed.
❌ Edge support could be better: Support along the perimeter of the Bear is OK, but it didn't perform as well as other mattresses in this area (like the Saatva Classic). If sleeping right up to the bed's edge or sitting before standing is important, we would recommend the Classic instead.
Bear Elite Hybrid: Expert Review
After testing the Bear Elite Hybrid in a stiflingly hot attic bedroom over an unseasonably warm British summer, I can confirm that the Bear Elite Hybrid is the best cooling mattress on the market today. What makes it an especially great option for those seeking sturdier support is that it comes in three firmness options, so you can choose the right tension for your sleep needs.
- Learn more: Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review
7. The best firm mattress for side sleepers
The Helix Twilight is an unusual mattress — it’s a firm bed designed specifically for side sleepers. We’d normally recommend a softer mattress for those who sleep on their side, but Helix somehow manages to offer firm support whilst still cushioning the pressure points at the shoulders, hips, and knees.
Using a combination of memory foam, contouring foams, and supportive steel coils, the Helix Twilight should be the top choice for those side sleepers who prefer a firmer mattress. Do be warned that this mattress really won’t suit back or stomach sleepers — despite the firmer surface, it's truly a mattress for side sleepers.
Motion isolation and temperature regulation is also excellent, and edge support along the side support is exceptionally sturdy. However, if we were nit picking, support along the head and foot of the mattress could be better (this is only a real issue if you like to sit at the bottom of your bed.)
Evergreen discounts range from 20-25% off, occasionally rising to 30% for major holidays during Helix mattress sales. Benefits include a 100-night trial, lifetime warranty and free shipping to your door – you can also pay extra to upgrade to white glove delivery.
What our testers like about it...
✅ Specifically designed for side sleepers: It may be a firm mattress but the Helix Twilight has been specifically designed to suit side sleepers, offering plenty of support but also cushioning where it's needed.
✅ Excellent pressure relief: Despite its firmer feel, the Helix Twilight offers contouring around the shoulders, hips and knees to keep side sleepers comfortable all night.
✅ Great motion isolation: The Twilight is an excellent choice for those sharing their bed with a restless sleeper, with virtually no motion transfer at all.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Not great for other sleeping positions: It might be a fantastic option for side sleepers but the Helix Twilight didn't suit our testers who slept on their back or stomach in the main.
❌ Inconsistent edge support: The edge support lengthways may be excellent, but it's woefully lacking on the head and foot ends of the bed, meaning you can't sit at the end of the bed comfortably.
Helix Twilight: Expert Verdict
I slept on the Helix Twilight for a month and was impressed by how well the mattress supported side sleepers. Managing to both be firm enough for lumbar support, but soft enough to cushion pressure points, this is the only firm mattress really suited to those who sleep on their side. Do avoid it if you sleep in any other position though - there are better options out there.
- Learn more: Helix Twilight mattress review
8. The best firm organic mattress
We consider the Avocado Green the best organic mattress you can buy right now. Offering firm support, the mattress is made up of dense Dunlop latex, organic wool and cotton and zoned pocketed coils to offer a balanced and comfortable night’s sleep.
The firm support means that the Avocado is particularly suited to back and stomach sleepers, but we found it too firm for side sleeping at all. (Upgrading to a box top or pillow top will make it more plush.)
Apart from this, the mattress is a bonafide all-rounder, offering excellent temperature regulation thanks to its naturally breathable materials, along with outstanding edge support and motion isolation.
Avocado Green mattress sales do happen but they’re not as ubiquitous or as generous as many other brands. At full MSRP a queen-size mattress is $1,999, and you’ll sometimes see 10 to 15% off. You’ll also get a 365-night trial, 25-year warranty and free shipping.
What our testers like about it...
✅ Comfortably firm for back sleeping: Our side-sleeping lead tester was able to transition to back sleeping because of the Avocado Green's zoned coils and Dunlop latex comfort layer. She also found it suitable for stomach sleeping.
✅ Supportive for heavy bodies: It may not have the highest weight capacity on this list, but the construction of the Avocado Green can withstand up to 700lbs. Larger sleepers won't have to worry about sinking in too deeply.
✅ Good for the environment: Avocado's focus on safety and sustainability has culminated in certifications from GOLS, GOTS, FSC, OEKO-TEX, Made Safe, and Greenguard.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Upgrades are expensive: If you're a combi side/back sleeper, the Avocado Mattress won't be contouring enough. Upgrading to a box-top or pillow-top will make it softer but that'll double the cost of this premium mattress. We suggest the DreamCloud (#3) if you're a combi side/back sleeper.
❌ Setup could be a hassle: Avocado offers White Glove Delivery but it's at least $249 extra. Shipping is free otherwise, but setup is a two-person job. By comparison, the Saatva Classic (#4) comes with free in-home delivery and mattress removal.
Avocado Green: Expert Verdict
I love the eco credentials of the Avocado Green, but I'm also impressed by the quality and support of the mattress. If you're looking for durability, latex is always a great option and the Avocado Green also offers fantastic pressure relief for back and stomach sleepers. It's also full of naturally breathable materials and offers excellent motion isolation and edge support.
- Learn more: Avocado Green mattress review
9. Best firm mattress for stomach sleepers
We believe that the Helix Dawn is the best mattress for stomach sleepers you can get right now, and that shouldn't be surprising: it was designed specifically to provide stomach sleepers with all the support they need to maintain healthy spinal alignment.
The lead tester for our Helix Dawn review is primarily a front sleeper and found that it excelled at supporting her lower back and keeping her spine straight during the night. End result: she didn't wake up with lower back pain after sleeping on the Helix Dawn.
Back sleepers among our testers also rated the Helix Dawn for its firm support, but that firmness (Helix rates it an 8 out of 10) means that side sleepers won't find much in the way of comfort here. There's little in the way of cushioning but the Dawn's foam layers deliver plenty of responsive pressure relief while its coils help you feel cradled while reducing motion transfer.
This isn't a cheap mattress, but a queen will usually cost you $1,099 in Helix's evergreen sale, which feels like a fair price to us. Note that the Helix Dawn's temperature regulation is a little lacking, so hot sleepers may wish to upgrade to a cooling GlacioTex cover; if you're prone to lower back pain you can also upgrade your mattress with an ErgoAlign layer, made with extra-dense foam that provides extra lumbar support. Whichever option you choose, you'll get a 100-night trial, lifetime warranty and free delivery.
What our testers like about it...
What we like about it…
✅ Full body support: The Helix Dawn's multiple foam layers, combined with its sprung base, combine to support you from from head to toe, keeping your hips lifted and your spine straight when you're sleeping on your back or stomach.
✅ Pressure relief for stomach and sleepers: This isn't a mattress that you sink into (and it's very much not for side sleepers), but the Helix Dawn's foam layers and springs mean that you'll feel comfortably cradled as you sleep.
✅ Impressive value: A queen will usually cost you a quite reasonable $1,099, and this mattress performs really well for its price. It punches well above its price bracket in terms of build quality, and features great motion isolation as well as reliable edge support.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Not for side sleepers: We need to stress the fact that side sleepers won't get a good night on the Helix Dawn as it's decidedly short on cushioning. The Helix Twilight further down the page is designed for side sleepers, but if you want an all-rounder consider the DreamCloud at #3.
❌ Can get a bit warm: The temperature regulation on the Helix Dawn isn't bad but it's not the best. The GlacioTex cover upgrade can make a big difference, but if cooling's your priority then you should look at the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe at #3.
Saatva Classic: Expert Verdict
The Helix Dawn Mattress has been designed for stomach sleepers and with a firm feel, even support and slight bounce, it nails the brief. I spent a month sleeping on the Helix Dawn and never woke up with the lower back pain that can plague stomach sleepers. At just $1,099 for a queen it’s not cheap but it does deliver the premium support of a pricier bed.
- Learn more: Helix Dawn mattress review
ALSO TESTED AND RECOMMENDED
The mattresses in this section are the highest performers from all of the other mattresses we've tested over the last several years. Ultimately, they were beaten by our top picks above, but if you haven't found an option you like in our main guide, then these are well worth considering.
How we test the best firm mattress
Every single mattress included in this guide has been slept on, tested and then reviewed by our trusted testing panel. This means our top firm mattress picks have been picked using an editorially independent review process that’s completely uninfluenced by third parties.
Our review process is in line with our mattress methodology. When we receive a mattress, we immediately take notes about the delivery, unboxing, set-up, expansion time and any off-gassing experienced.
We sleep on the bed for a minimum of three weeks to allow our bodies to adjust to the mattress. Most brands don't accept returns until after you've had at least 30 days to sleep on your mattress.
We also measure performance in five key areas: pressure relief, temperature regulation, support, comfort, and motion isolation. Our panel of testers varies in preferred sleep position, sleep requirements, and body size so we can best gauge who a specific mattress will suit.
Finally we also scour verified customer reviews and ratings to find information on durability from long-term users, alongside information from customers who have a sleep requirement not shared by any of our testers. This allows us to gain a broader perspective on each mattress.
Firm mattress buying advice from our experts
When is the best time to buy a firm mattress?
The best time to buy a firm mattress is during the major sales events throughout the year, such as Black Friday and Prime Day, or during federal holidays such as Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Usually, the Black Friday mattress sales in November and the following Cyber Monday mattress sales are the best times to buy a firm mattress at its lowest price. However, we are now seeing price-rivalling deals arrive during the Presidents' Day mattress sales in February, the Memorial Day mattress sales in May, and the Labor Day mattress sales in September, too.
In general, summertime is the worst period to buy a firm mattress (there are no major holiday sales and mattress manufacturers tend to increase prices at this time). However, we have seen some great deals during the 4th of July mattress sales and the Amazon Prime Day deals in July.
What to consider when buying a firm mattress
As we all know, one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to mattresses. Even if you have decided on a firm mattress, the one that’s best for you won’t be the right choice for everyone else. So, before you part with your cash, make sure you’ve taken the following factors into consideration:
Firmness: We consider a firm mattress to be rated 8-9 out of 10, while an extra firm mattress is a 10 out of 10. In general these mattresses are best suited to back and stomach sleepers, along with those of a heavier build.
Those with lower back pain may also benefit from a firm mattress that provides plenty of lumbar support — but not always.
Height: When deciding how thick your mattress should be, you need to consider your sleep style, body weight, and requirements.
For example, most adults and sleep styles should find firm mattresses with a height between 8" to 12" comfortable and supportive. But heavier weight adults over 250lbs, couples, and some side sleepers will need something deeper (around 12" to 16") for extra support and comfort.
If you have mobility issues however, you may find a lower profile mattress makes it easier to get in and out of bed.
Weight capacity: The bonus of some firm mattresses is that they’re designed to accommodate heavier bodies, but if you weigh over 250lbs, you’ll need to be sure that your mattress will support your weight. The Plank Firm that tops our list has a combined 950lb weight capacity.
Price and deals: Many of the best firm mattresses use a hybrid design of coils and foams, bringing them into the upper mid-range or premium price bracket.
Our hybrid picks range from $699 to over $2,000 with the average sale price of a queen hybrid at $1,250. However, we do also have all-foam options, which range from $359 to $999.
The key factor to consider here is your budget. Spend as much as you (comfortably) can afford on a new mattress, but don’t just be taken in by a good sale price or offer. Instead, read our reviews above to see which firm mattress will suit you best and the time your mattress shopping around the major sales events dotted throughout the year.
Trials and warranties: Buying a mattress online means that you can’t try the bed out before you buy it. For this reason, mattress brands offer trial periods where you can test the mattress out at home.
Some brands, such as Saatva and DreamCloud, offer a full year’s sleep trial along with a lifetime warranty on their mattresses, giving plenty of time to try out a new firm bed. However, we find that a 100-night trial and 10-year warranty is plenty for the vast majority of mattresses. In the case of a warranty, most mattresses will need to be replaced by the 10-year mark.
Who should buy a firm mattress?
Wondering if a firm mattress is right for you? Dr. Grant Radermacher, owner of Ascent Chiropractic in Brookfield, WI, recommends a firm mattress for the following cases:
1. People with joint-related back pain
According to Dr. Radermacher, "A firm mattress provides the support your spine needs to maintain proper alignment, which can help reduce pressure points on your lower back and alleviate spinal facet and/or sacroiliac pain." Learn more about the best type of mattress for back pain.
2. Back and stomach sleepers
Dr. Radermacher says that for back and stomach sleepers, "a firmer mattress can help support the natural lordotic (forward) curve of your lower back, keeping excess stress off some of the more sensitive structures in your spine." Strict side sleepers should seek a medium-soft mattress that'll better contour the hips and shoulders – check out the best mattresses for side sleepers, or read more about what happens to your body when you sleep on your back, on your stomach, or on your side.
3. Overweight or obese individuals
"For those on the heavier side, a firm mattress can help distribute their body weight more evenly across the mattress, minimizing stress on the joints in the spine and pelvis and resisting mattress sagging over time," says Dr. Radermacher.
Best firm mattress FAQs
Do firm mattresses last longer?
Firmer mattresses can benefit both your back and your bank balance, as they tend to last longer than softer beds.
Since a firm mattress is designed to keep the sleeper laying on top of the mattress, this actually protects the integrity of your mattress, helping it last longer. However, as with all mattresses, your weight, sleep position and how well you look after it will determine how many years you'll be able to get out of it.
Remember that all mattresses will soften and sag over time. The average lifespan of a mattress is eight years, but this varies according to build quality and the materials used to make it.
Are firm mattresses good for side sleepers?
Side sleepers need a mattress that won't trigger the pressure points in their shoulders, hips, and knees. In most cases, firm mattresses are discouraged for side sleeping as they don't offer enough contouring.
However, there are exceptions. The Helix Twilight is a firm mattress made specifically for side sleepers — and we think it hits the target on that. The DreamCloud is another firm mattress that's not lacking in pressure relief, which can benefit side sleepers who don't want a super-soft bed.
The amount of pressure you put on your sleep surface through your body weight will influence how soft or firm your mattress should be.
If you weigh less than 130lbs, a firm mattress is unlikely to give you the amount of relief you need to sleep comfortably. On the other hand, side sleepers who weigh over 230lbs might find a firm mattress provides the balance of comfort and support they need. For those in between these weight ranges, a medium to medium-firm bed could work best.
If you're mattress shopping but don't know where to begin, knowing how to choose a mattress for your sleep position will help you narrow down the field.
Is a firm mattress good for back pain?
Medical experts agree that a firm mattress isn’t always the best choice for back pain.
Sleepers who weigh under 130lbs and strict side sleepers of any size may not get the proper amount of support and cushioning needed unless they’re sleeping on a firm mattress specifically designed for side sleepers. In general, these sleepers might prefer a medium-firm mattress that offers more cushioning and padding where needed.
By contrast, heavier sleepers will love the firmer support on offer as it will stop them from sinking too far into the mattress. Likewise, stomach sleepers need a firm mattress to keep their hips lifted and their spines aligned — although this position usually isn't recommended for back pain.
We’d also recommend a firm mattress to those with lower back pain, whatever their body weight, as the support around the lumbar region will help keep their spine aligned and prevent pain from building up. Mattress firmness and comfort are subjective, so the bed has to be the right fit for you.
While a firm mattress for back pain could help you sleep better, it's important to address the root cause and consider other lifestyle changes. Talk to your primary care physician or another licensed medical professional to address particular sleep or health concerns.
