If you've been waking up with aches and pains, or feeling like you didn't get a good night's sleep, your mattress may be to blame. One of the most common issues people have with their mattresses is firmness. While some prefer a firmer mattress for better support, others may find it too uncomfortable and even damaging to their health. In this article, we'll discuss how to tell if your mattress is too firm and what you can do about it.Is Your Mattress Too Firm? Here's How to Tell and What to Do About It
If you've determined that your mattress is too firm for your liking, there are a few things you can do to adjust the firmness level. One option is to use a mattress topper, which is an extra layer of padding that can add softness to a firm mattress. On the other hand, if your mattress is too soft, you can try adding a firmer mattress topper or using a board or plywood beneath the mattress for extra support.How to Make Your Mattress Firmer or Softer
Sometimes, the solution to a too-firm mattress is simply getting a new one. Here are five signs that it's time to replace your mattress: 1. Your mattress is over 8 years old: The average lifespan of a mattress is around 8 years. If your mattress is older than that, it's likely lost its support and may be too firm. 2. You wake up with aches and pains: As mentioned earlier, a too-firm mattress can cause discomfort and pain in your back, shoulders, and hips. If you wake up feeling sore, it could be a sign that your mattress is too firm. 3. Your mattress is sagging: If your mattress has visible sagging or indentations, it's a clear sign that it's no longer providing proper support and may be too firm. 4. You sleep better in other beds: If you find yourself sleeping better in hotel beds or at a friend's house, it could be a sign that your mattress is not the right firmness for you. 5. Your allergies are acting up: Over time, mattresses can accumulate dust, debris, and allergens, which could be causing your allergies to flare up. If regular cleaning and airing out of your mattress doesn't help, it may be time for a new one.5 Signs You Need a New Mattress
When shopping for a new mattress, it's important to choose the right firmness level for your specific needs and preferences. Here are some general guidelines to help you decide: Firm: Firm mattresses are best for those who sleep on their back or stomach, as they provide the most support and alignment for these sleep positions. They are also recommended for those who are heavier or have back pain. Medium: Medium-firm mattresses are a good balance between support and comfort. They are suitable for most sleep positions and body types. Soft: Soft mattresses are ideal for side sleepers, as they provide pressure relief for the shoulders and hips. They are also good for those who prefer a plush, sinking feeling when they sleep.How to Choose the Right Mattress Firmness for You
If you're in the market for a new firm mattress, here are the top 10 best options of 2021: 1. Brand A Firm Mattress 2. Brand B Extra Firm Mattress 3. Brand C Orthopedic Firm Mattress 4. Brand D Luxury Firm Mattress 5. Brand E Hybrid Firm Mattress 6. Brand F Innerspring Firm Mattress 7. Brand G Memory Foam Firm Mattress 8. Brand H Latex Firm Mattress 9. Brand I Plush Firm Mattress 10. Brand J Organic Firm MattressTop 10 Best Firm Mattresses of 2021
If your mattress is sagging, there are a few things you can try to fix it: 1. Rotate or flip the mattress: If your mattress is double-sided, try flipping it over or rotating it 180 degrees to even out wear and tear. 2. Use a mattress topper: As mentioned earlier, a mattress topper can add extra support and padding to a sagging mattress. 3. Replace the box spring: If your mattress sits on a box spring, it may be the cause of the sagging. Try replacing it with a new one. 4. Use pillows for support: If the sagging is only in one area, you can try placing pillows underneath that area for added support.How to Fix a Sagging Mattress
While a firm mattress may be suitable for some people, it's not the best choice for everyone. Here are some reasons why a firm mattress may not be the right choice for you: 1. You sleep on your side: As mentioned earlier, side sleepers typically need a softer mattress to relieve pressure on their shoulders and hips. 2. You prefer a plush feel: If you like the feeling of sinking into your mattress, a firm one may be too uncomfortable for you. 3. You have joint pain or arthritis: A firm mattress can put too much pressure on your joints, leading to increased pain and discomfort. 4. You're a lighter weight: If you're on the lighter side, a firm mattress may feel too hard and uncomfortable for you.Why a Firm Mattress May Not Be the Best Choice for You
If you've already invested in a firm mattress but find it too uncomfortable, here are some things you can try to make it more comfortable: 1. Use a mattress topper: As mentioned earlier, a mattress topper can add extra cushioning to a firm mattress. 2. Use a body pillow: Placing a body pillow between your knees when sleeping on your side can help alleviate pressure on your hips and make your mattress feel more comfortable. 3. Adjust your sleeping position: If you're a back sleeper, try placing a pillow under your knees to relieve pressure on your lower back. If you're a stomach sleeper, try placing a pillow under your hips to prevent arching of your back. 4. Give it time: Sometimes, it takes a few weeks for your body to adjust to a new mattress. Give it some time before deciding whether it's too firm or not.How to Make a Firm Mattress More Comfortable
As with any product, there are both advantages and disadvantages to a firm mattress. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider: Pros: - Provides good support for back and stomach sleepers - Can alleviate back pain for some individuals - Generally lasts longer than softer mattresses - May be more affordable compared to other types of mattresses Cons: - Can be uncomfortable for side sleepers or those with joint pain - May cause pressure points and discomfort - Can be too stiff and unresponsive for some individualsThe Pros and Cons of a Firm Mattress
If you're unsure about the firmness level of your mattress or want to make adjustments, here's how you can test it: 1. Lie down in your usual sleeping position: Pay attention to how your body feels after a few minutes. Are you experiencing any pain or discomfort? 2. Try different positions: Roll onto your back, stomach, and sides to see how the mattress feels in different positions. 3. Use a measuring tool: If you have a measuring tool like a ruler or tape measure, you can measure the indentation depth of your mattress to determine its firmness level. If your mattress is too firm, consider trying some of the solutions we mentioned earlier to make it more comfortable. And if all else fails, it may be time for a new mattress that better suits your needs and preferences.How to Test Your Mattress Firmness and Make Adjustments