Soft vs Medium vs Firm: Which Is Best for Your Sleep Style?

Shopping for a new mattress can feel a little overwhelming, especially when it comes to figuring out which comfort level is right for you. Soft, medium, or firm? It’s not just about personal preference. The right mattress can help you wake up refreshed, free from aches and pains, and ready to take on the day.

So, how do you know which one fits your sleep style best? Let’s break down each comfort level and explore what they offer.

 

 

What is Mattress Firmness?

Before we dive in, it’s important to know that mattress firmness is about how a mattress feels when you lie down on it. It doesn't necessarily reflect support; you can have a soft mattress that's still supportive or a firm mattress that lacks comfort. At Mattress Direct, we categorize them like this:

• Softer

• Soft

• Medium

• Hard

• Harder

Each comfort level caters to different sleep positions, body types, and preferences.

 

 

Understanding the Mattress Firmness Scale

When you hear “mattress firmness scale,” it might sound technical, but it’s really just a simple way to describe how soft or firm a mattress feels when you first lie down. 

Each category is designed to match different sleep styles and body types, helping you quickly zero in on what feels best for you.  

Softer: Best for Side Sleepers and Cushion Lovers

If you love the feeling of sinking into your bed, a softer mattress might be your match. These provide extra pressure relief and hug your curves, which makes them ideal for side sleepers.

Recommended Mattress:

➤ Serta iComfort Iona 13" Memory Foam Mattress (Model: 5008023721050)

• Plush memory foam that cradles your body

• Reduces pressure points for side sleepers

• Breathable design helps regulate temperature

Good for: Side sleepers, lightweight individuals, and anyone who enjoys a cozy, contouring sleep surface.

Soft: Still Plush, But a Bit More Balanced

Soft mattresses offer a touch more support while still delivering that cushy, sink-in comfort. They're a great middle ground if you don't want to feel stuck but still crave softness.

Recommended Mattress:

➤ Nectar 5.1 Foam Luxe Mattress (Model: NCFMLUXEZS)

• Five layers of foam for pressure relief and gentle support

• Designed to align your spine while offering plush comfort

• Excellent motion isolation for couples

Good for: Side sleepers, combination sleepers, and people who prefer a softer feel without going ultra-plush.

Medium: The Most Popular Choice for a Reason

Medium mattresses strike the perfect balance between soft and firm. They offer enough give to cushion your body, but enough support to keep your spine aligned. This makes them ideal for a wide range of sleepers.

Recommended Mattress:

➤ Beautyrest Black® Series One 13" Hybrid Mattress (Model: 7008124401050)

• Hybrid design with pocketed coils and foam layers

• Supportive yet contouring feel

• Designed to relieve pressure while maintaining alignment

Good for: Back sleepers, combination sleepers, and couples with different firmness preferences.

Hard: Firm Support with a Hint of Comfort

If you need extra support or prefer to sleep "on" rather than "in" your mattress, a firm mattress is a solid choice. A firm mattress is better for you if you need to keep your body properly aligned, especially if you deal with back pain.

Recommended Mattress:

➤ TEMPUR-LuxeAdapt® 2.0 Firm Mattress (Model: 10754151)

• Tempur material adapts to your body while staying firm

• Provides excellent support for spine alignment

• Pressure-relieving while still feeling firm

Good for: Back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and those who prefer extra support.

Harder: Extra-Firm for Maximum Support

Extra-firm mattresses offer the least amount of give and are designed for those who need serious support. These are often preferred by stomach sleepers and people who want to avoid any sinkage.

Recommended Mattress:

➤ Sealy Brenham II Tight Top Ultra Firm Mattress (Model: 53200251)

• Ultra-firm feel prevents sinkage

• Durable coils and tight top construction

• Great for maintaining alignment all night

Good for: Stomach sleepers, heavier individuals, and those who like a very firm sleep surface.

 

 

What is the Best Firmness for a Mattress?

• Side sleepers? Softer to medium will cradle your shoulders and hips.

• Back sleepers? Medium to firm keeps your spine aligned without sinking too much.

• Stomach sleepers? Firm to harder ensures your hips don't dip, which could cause back strain.

• Dealing with back pain? Medium to firm tends to be the sweet spot for support and comfort.

• Not sure? Medium is often the safest bet if you’re unsure or share the bed with a partner who has different needs.

Still not sure which firmness is right for you? That’s where bedMATCH™ comes in. At Mattress Direct, you can use this one-of-a-kind diagnostic system to take the guesswork out of mattress shopping. In just minutes, bedMATCH uses your sleep habits and body type to recommend the perfect firmness and support level tailored to you. 

 

 

Explore Soft and Firm Mattresses at Mattress Direct

No matter your sleep style, Mattress Direct makes it easy to find the mattress that fits just right. From ultra-plush to ultra-firm and everything in between, our curated selection helps you find a mattress that delivers the comfort and support you deserve.

Ready to sleep better? Mattress Direct makes it simple to find the best mattress for your needs. Contact us or visit your local Mattress Direct showroom today. We’re here to help you discover a wide range of top-rated mattresses, pillows, bedding essentials, and adjustable bases.

Related readings from our blog:

• How Your Sleep Position Determines the Perfect Mattress

• The Impact of Mattress Design on Spinal Alignment

• The Impact of Mattress Materials on Your Sleep Quality

 

FAQ: Mattress Firmness Questions

1. Is it better to have a soft or firm mattress for back pain?

Usually, medium to firm mattresses offer the best blend of support and comfort for relieving back pain.

2. Do hotels use soft, medium, or firm mattresses?

Most hotels use medium mattresses to accommodate the widest range of guests.

3. How can you tell if a mattress is too soft or too firm?

If you wake up with pain, feel stuck, or don't feel supported, your mattress may not be the right firmness.

4. Who should sleep on a medium-firm mattress?

Back sleepers, combination sleepers, and those seeking balanced support often do best on medium-firm mattresses.

5. Should stomach sleepers have a firm mattress?

Yes, firmer mattresses keep the hips aligned and prevent lower back strain for stomach sleepers.