Sleep matters, and your mattress plays a big role in how well you rest. There are several types of mattresses on the market today, each designed to meet different comfort needs and sleep preferences.
Finding the right mattress type can dramatically improve your sleep quality and overall health. Memory foam offers body-contouring support, innerspring provides traditional bounce, latex delivers natural resilience, and hybrid mattresses combine multiple technologies for balanced comfort.
Your body type, sleeping position, and personal comfort preferences should guide your choice. Some people need firm support for back pain, while others prefer the plush feeling of softer materials. Understanding these different mattress types helps you make an informed decision when shopping for the best mattress for your unique needs.
Understanding Mattress Types
Choosing the right mattress involves understanding the different materials and construction methods used. Each mattress type offers distinct features that affect comfort, support, durability, and price.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses use metal coils as their main support system. These traditional mattresses remain popular due to their good airflow and responsive bounce.
The quality of an innerspring mattress depends on several factors:
- Coil count: Higher counts (600-1,000) typically provide better support
- Coil gauge: Lower numbers (12-13) indicate thicker, firmer coils
- Coil type: Bonnell, offset, continuous, and pocketed coils each offer different benefits
Innerspring mattresses provide excellent edge support and cooling. They work well for back and stomach sleepers who need firmer support.
Most innerspring mattresses last 7-10 years. They’re generally more affordable than other mattress types, with prices ranging from $500-$1,200 for quality options.
Foam Mattresses
Foam mattresses contain layers of different foam types without any coil support system. Memory foam and polyfoam are the most common materials used.
Memory foam contours to your body, relieving pressure points and reducing motion transfer. This makes it ideal for side sleepers and couples.
Foam mattress considerations:
- Density: Higher density foams (4-5 lbs/cubic foot) last longer
- Response time: How quickly the foam returns to its original shape
- Temperature regulation: Some foams trap heat, while newer gel-infused or open-cell foams sleep cooler
Polyfoam provides a more responsive feel than memory foam. It’s often used in the support layers or as a more affordable alternative.
Most quality foam mattresses last 7-10 years and cost between $800-$2,000 depending on foam quality and construction.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses are made from either natural or synthetic rubber. Natural latex comes from rubber tree sap and offers excellent durability and eco-friendly benefits.
There are two main manufacturing processes for latex:
- Dunlop: Denser, more supportive, less expensive
- Talalay: Softer, more consistent feel, more expensive
Latex provides a unique responsive feel that contours to the body without the sinking sensation of memory foam. It’s naturally cooling, antimicrobial, and resistant to dust mites.
These mattresses are ideal for eco-conscious shoppers and people with allergies. They typically last 12-20 years—longer than most other mattress types.
The main drawback is price, with quality latex mattresses ranging from $1,500-$2,500. They’re also heavier than other mattress types, making them difficult to move.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses combine an innerspring coil support system with significant foam comfort layers. This design aims to offer the best features of both materials.
A true hybrid typically includes:
- 2-3 inches of memory foam, latex, or polyfoam in the comfort layers
- Pocketed coil support core
- Sometimes a transitional layer between the comfort and support sections
Hybrids provide excellent pressure relief from the foam layers while maintaining the responsiveness and airflow of coils. This makes them versatile for most sleeping positions.
They generally offer better edge support than all-foam mattresses. However, they can be heavy and expensive, typically costing $1,200-$2,000 for quality options.
Most hybrid mattresses last 6-8 years, falling between the durability of all-foam and innerspring models.
Airbeds
Airbeds feature air chambers as their primary support system. Unlike temporary blow-up mattresses, permanent airbeds are sophisticated sleep systems.
The main advantage of airbeds is adjustable firmness. Users can add or remove air to customize the feel, often with remote controls or smartphone apps.
Key airbed features:
- Number of air chambers: More chambers allow for customization between sides
- Comfort layers: Quality airbeds include foam or latex comfort layers
- Pump type: Higher-end models feature whisper-quiet pumps with memory settings
Airbeds work well for couples with different firmness preferences and people with changing comfort needs. However, they require electricity and have more mechanical components that can fail.
These mattresses typically last 8-10 years with proper maintenance. Premium airbeds from brands like Sleep Number can cost $2,000-$5,000+.
Materials and Construction
The quality and comfort of a mattress depend greatly on what it’s made from and how these materials work together. Different materials provide varying levels of support, temperature regulation, and durability that affect your sleep experience.
Innerspring Coils
Innerspring mattresses use steel coils as their main support system. These coils come in several types:
- Bonnell coils: Hourglass-shaped and connected coils – the traditional option
- Offset coils: Modified hourglass design with flattened tops for better contouring
- Continuous coils: Single wire formed into multiple coils for durability
- Pocketed coils: Individual fabric-wrapped coils that move independently
Coil count typically ranges from 500-1,000 in quality mattresses. Higher counts don’t always mean better quality – the gauge (thickness) matters too. Thicker coils (lower gauge numbers) provide firmer support.
Coil distribution affects how weight is distributed. Quality innerspring mattresses often include edge support systems to prevent sagging. Many modern innerspring mattresses add comfort layers like pillow tops or euro tops above the coils.
Foam Types
Foam mattresses use various types of foam to create comfort and support.
Memory foam adapts to body heat and pressure, creating a body-hugging feel. It offers excellent pressure relief for joints but may retain heat. Density ranges from 3-7 pounds per cubic foot, with higher densities lasting longer.
Polyurethane foam comes in different firmness levels and serves as a base layer in many mattresses. It’s lightweight and affordable but less durable than other foams.
Gel-infused foam combines memory foam with cooling gel beads or swirls. This addresses heat retention issues by drawing heat away from the body.
Foam quality is measured by density and ILD (Indentation Load Deflection). Higher density foams (4-5+ pcf) typically last longer. ILD measures firmness – lower numbers indicate softer foam, while higher numbers mean firmer support.
Natural Latex vs Synthetic Latex
Latex mattresses offer a responsive, bouncy feel with natural cooling properties.
Natural latex comes from rubber tree sap and is processed using either:
- Dunlop method: Dense, supportive, and durable
- Talalay method: Softer and more consistent throughout
Natural latex is antimicrobial, resistant to dust mites, and can last 15+ years. It’s also environmentally friendly but more expensive than synthetic options.
Synthetic latex is made from petrochemicals to mimic natural latex properties. It costs less but doesn’t last as long and lacks some natural benefits. Many mattresses use a blend of both types to balance cost and quality.
Both types come in different firmness levels measured by ILD. Latex allergies primarily affect those with direct rubber contact allergies, as proteins causing reactions are mostly removed during processing.
Airbed Mechanisms
Airbeds use chambers filled with air as their primary support system.
The air chambers are typically made from vulcanized rubber or similar materials. Higher-end models feature multiple chambers that allow different firmness levels on each side. This makes them ideal for couples with different preferences.
The inflation mechanism includes:
- Air pumps (internal or external)
- Digital controls for precise firmness adjustment
- Pressure sensors that maintain desired firmness
Most quality airbeds include foam comfort layers above the air chambers. These layers provide cushioning while the air system handles support. Memory foam or latex top layers are common in premium models.
Remote controls or smartphone apps allow users to adjust firmness instantly. Some advanced models automatically adjust throughout the night based on movement patterns. Durability depends largely on the quality of the air chambers and pump systems.
Hybrid Mattress Builds
Hybrid mattresses combine innerspring support with significant foam comfort layers to provide balanced benefits.
A typical hybrid structure includes:
- Base layer: Supportive foam foundation (1-2 inches)
- Coil system: Usually pocketed coils for motion isolation
- Transition layer: Responsive foam to buffer between coils and comfort layers
- Comfort layers: Memory foam, latex, or polyfoam (3-7 inches total)
The coil system provides breathability and bounce while foam layers offer pressure relief. Many hybrids use cooling technologies in their foam layers, such as gel infusions, copper, or phase-change materials.
Hybrid height typically ranges from 10-14 inches. The ratio of coil height to foam layers affects the overall feel. More foam creates a plush sensation while a higher coil profile increases responsiveness. Edge support systems prevent sagging around the perimeter.
Firmness and Support
Mattress firmness and support features directly impact sleep quality and comfort. These elements determine how a mattress feels and how well it aligns your spine during sleep.
Firmness Levels
Mattress firmness typically ranges from soft to extra firm. Most manufacturers use a 1-10 scale, with 1 being extremely soft and 10 being very firm. Medium-firm (5-7) mattresses work well for most sleepers.
Soft mattresses (3-5) contour closely to the body and provide pressure relief for shoulders and hips. These are ideal for side sleepers and people weighing under 130 pounds.
Medium mattresses (5-6) balance contouring and support. They accommodate multiple sleeping positions and work well for couples with different preferences.
Firm mattresses (7-10) offer minimal sinking and solid support. Back and stomach sleepers typically prefer these options, as do people weighing over 230 pounds.
Remember that firmness perception varies based on body weight, shape, and personal preference.
Support Core Essentials
The support core forms the foundation of a mattress and provides structural integrity. This layer prevents excessive sinking and helps maintain proper spinal alignment.
Common support core materials include:
- Pocketed coils: Individually wrapped springs that reduce motion transfer while providing targeted support
- Bonnell coils: Interconnected springs offering durable support at a lower cost
- High-density foam: Firm polyfoam that creates a stable foundation
- Latex: Natural or synthetic rubber providing responsive support
Support cores typically make up 50-70% of a mattress’s total height. Quality support layers prevent sagging and extend mattress lifespan.
The ideal support core varies by sleep position and body type. Heavier individuals need more substantial support to prevent excessive sinking.
Comfort Layers and Sleeping Positions
Comfort layers sit atop the support core and determine how the mattress feels against your body. These upper layers provide pressure relief and contouring.
Side sleepers need thicker comfort layers (2-4 inches) that cushion shoulders and hips. Memory foam and soft latex work well for these sleepers by relieving pressure points.
Back sleepers benefit from medium-firm comfort layers that support the lower back while allowing slight contouring. This prevents the hips from sinking too deeply.
Stomach sleepers require thin, firm comfort layers to keep the midsection from sinking. Excessive softness in this position can strain the lower back.
The right combination of comfort layers depends on both sleeping position and body weight. Heavier individuals may need denser materials to prevent bottoming out.
Sleep Experience
The right mattress impacts how well you sleep through its physical properties. Your comfort depends on several key factors that affect both your body and sleep quality.
Motion Isolation
Motion isolation refers to a mattress’s ability to prevent movement from transferring across the surface. This feature is especially important for couples who share a bed.
Memory foam mattresses excel at motion isolation. The viscoelastic material absorbs energy, preventing disturbances when your partner moves. You won’t feel them turning over or getting out of bed.
Innerspring mattresses typically offer poorer motion isolation. The connected coil systems transfer movement across the surface.
Hybrid mattresses provide a middle ground. Their pocketed coils combined with foam layers reduce motion transfer while maintaining some bounce.
For light sleepers, motion isolation can make a significant difference in sleep quality. Those easily disturbed by movement should prioritize this feature when selecting a mattress.
Temperature Regulation
How a mattress manages heat affects comfort throughout the night. Different materials have varying abilities to dissipate body heat.
Traditional memory foam tends to trap heat. The dense structure limits airflow, which can lead to uncomfortable sleeping conditions for hot sleepers.
Gel-infused and open-cell memory foams improve temperature regulation. These modified foams increase airflow and help dissipate body heat more effectively.
Innerspring and hybrid mattresses typically sleep cooler. Their coil systems create space for air circulation, helping to regulate temperature.
Natural materials like latex and wool offer excellent temperature regulation. Latex has an open-cell structure that promotes airflow, while wool wicks away moisture.
For hot sleepers, mattresses with cooling technologies such as:
- Phase-change materials
- Copper or graphite infusions
- Breathable covers
- Ventilated designs
These features help maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature throughout the night.
Edge Support
Edge support determines how well a mattress performs around its perimeter. Strong edges extend the usable sleeping surface and make it easier to get in and out of bed.
Innerspring and hybrid mattresses typically offer the best edge support. Their reinforced perimeters prevent the feeling of rolling off when sleeping near the edge.
Memory foam mattresses often have weaker edges. The material compresses easily under concentrated weight, creating a sloping sensation near the perimeter.
Good edge support benefits:
- People who sit on the bed’s edge when getting up
- Couples who use the full mattress surface
- Those who have mobility issues
Reinforced edges also extend the mattress’s lifespan by preventing premature sagging around the perimeter where people sit most frequently.
Responsiveness and Bounce
Responsiveness refers to how quickly a mattress adapts to changes in pressure and weight. This affects how easy it is to move around on the surface.
Innerspring mattresses offer high responsiveness and bounce. The coil systems quickly push back against pressure, making movement and position changes effortless.
Memory foam has low responsiveness. It slowly adjusts to body position changes, creating a “sinking” feeling that some sleepers find restricting.
Latex provides a responsive surface with moderate bounce. It instantly adapts to movement while still offering pressure relief.
Responsiveness affects:
- Ease of movement during sleep
- Comfort during intimate activities
- Getting in and out of bed
- Overall feeling of being “on” versus “in” the mattress
The ideal level of responsiveness varies based on personal preference and sleep style.
Health and Sleep Conditions
Your mattress choice directly impacts your health and quality of sleep. The right mattress can alleviate pain, reduce allergy symptoms, and help manage chronic conditions like arthritis.
Back and Joint Pain Considerations
People with back pain need mattresses that provide proper spinal alignment and pressure relief. Medium-firm to firm mattresses often work best for back pain sufferers, as they prevent the hips from sinking too deeply.
Memory foam and latex mattresses excel at distributing weight evenly, which helps reduce pressure points. These materials contour to the body’s natural curves while supporting the spine.
Hybrid mattresses combine supportive coils with pressure-relieving foam layers, making them a good option for those with lower back issues. The coil base provides stability while the foam comfort layers cushion joints.
For side sleepers with back pain, slightly softer mattresses may work better as they allow shoulders and hips to sink in just enough to maintain proper alignment.
Hypoallergenic Properties
Many modern mattresses offer hypoallergenic features that minimize allergen buildup. Natural latex mattresses naturally resist dust mites and mold, making them excellent choices for allergy sufferers.
Memory foam mattresses with dense structures prevent dust mites from penetrating deep into the mattress. Some models include antimicrobial treatments that further reduce allergen growth.
Mattress covers matter too. Look for removable, washable covers that create a barrier against allergens. Hypoallergenic covers made of tightly woven fabrics can block dust mites effectively.
For those with severe allergies, organic mattresses free from chemical flame retardants and formaldehyde may help reduce reactions. These mattresses use natural materials like organic cotton, wool, and latex.
Sleeping With Arthritis
Arthritis sufferers need mattresses that cushion painful joints while providing adequate support. Memory foam and latex excel at this balance, conforming to the body without creating pressure points.
Key considerations for arthritis:
- Pressure relief at shoulders, hips, and knees
- Medium softness that allows easy movement
- Responsive materials that don’t trap the body
Adjustable beds paired with suitable mattresses can be game-changers for arthritis patients. They allow position changes that take pressure off inflamed joints.
Temperature regulation is also important, as some arthritis medications can cause night sweats. Gel-infused foams or naturally cooling latex can help maintain comfortable sleeping temperatures.
For those with severe arthritis, mattress weight and motion transfer should be considered. Lighter mattresses are easier to make, while minimal motion transfer prevents pain from a partner’s movements.
Special Features and Technologies
Today’s mattresses offer more than just basic comfort. Modern options include specialized features designed to enhance sleep quality and address specific needs like temperature control and customizable support.
Adjustable Beds Compatibility
Not all mattresses work well with adjustable bed frames. Memory foam and latex mattresses typically offer the best flexibility, bending easily with the frame’s movements without damage. Most hybrid mattresses also perform well with adjustable bases, though very thick models might have limitations.
Innerspring mattresses often have less compatibility with adjustable frames. Their coil systems can be damaged when bent repeatedly. Before purchasing, check the manufacturer’s specifications about adjustable bed compatibility.
Many brands now design mattresses specifically for adjustable bases. These models maintain their structural integrity and performance while conforming to different positions. This feature is particularly valuable for those with medical conditions requiring elevated sleeping positions.
Pillowtop and Euro-Top Additions
Pillowtop and Euro-top layers add extra cushioning to mattresses for enhanced comfort. A pillowtop is a layer of soft material sewn onto the mattress surface with a visible gap between the mattress and the additional padding.
Euro-tops, while similar, are sewn flush with the edges of the mattress. This creates a more uniform appearance and often provides better edge support. Both options add plushness to firmer mattresses without sacrificing support.
These additions come in various materials:
- Memory foam for pressure relief
- Latex for responsive support
- Wool for natural temperature regulation
- Cotton for breathability
Euro-tops typically last longer than pillowtops because of their more secure attachment to the mattress. They also tend to maintain their shape better over time.
Gel Mattresses for Cooling
Gel mattresses represent an innovative solution for hot sleepers. These mattresses incorporate gel-infused foam or dedicated gel layers to improve temperature regulation during sleep.
The gel works by absorbing body heat and dissipating it throughout the mattress. This creates a cooler sleeping surface compared to traditional memory foam, which tends to retain heat.
Manufacturers use several approaches with gel technology:
- Gel-infused foam: Tiny gel beads embedded directly in memory foam
- Gel layers: Distinct cooling layers placed near the mattress surface
- Gel grid systems: Structured gel formations that promote airflow
Studies show gel mattresses can maintain temperatures 2-3 degrees cooler than standard foam options. The cooling effect is most noticeable during the first few hours of sleep, when body temperature naturally rises.
Durability and Maintenance
Different mattress types last for different amounts of time. Innerspring mattresses typically last 5-7 years before sagging begins. Memory foam can last 8-10 years with proper care. Latex mattresses are the most durable, often lasting 12-15 years or more.
The materials used in construction greatly affect how long your mattress will last. High-density foams (5+ pounds per cubic foot) resist impressions better than lower-density options. Coil count and gauge (thickness) matter for innerspring durability.
Factors That Reduce Mattress Lifespan:
- Excessive weight or pressure
- Moisture damage
- Improper support
- Lack of rotation
Maintenance Tips for Longer Mattress Life:
- Rotate your mattress every 3-6 months
- Use a mattress protector to prevent stains and spills
- Clean spills immediately with mild soap and water
- Vacuum your mattress periodically to remove dust and allergens
Most quality mattresses include warranties ranging from 10-25 years. However, these typically only cover manufacturing defects, not normal wear and tear.
Body impressions are normal in all mattress types. Most manufacturers consider depressions under 1.5 inches to be normal wear rather than a defect.
The foundation or bed frame you use affects mattress longevity. Using the wrong support system may void your warranty and cause premature sagging.
Choosing the Right Mattress
Finding the perfect mattress requires understanding your personal needs and preferences. The right choice depends on your sleep style, body type, health concerns, and budget constraints.
Assessing Your Sleep Style and Body Weight
Your sleep position greatly affects which mattress will feel most comfortable. Side sleepers typically need softer surfaces that cushion shoulders and hips. Back sleepers benefit from medium-firm support that maintains proper spine alignment. Stomach sleepers usually require firmer mattresses to prevent excess sinking.
Body weight is equally important in mattress selection. People under 130 pounds often prefer softer mattresses (3-5 on the firmness scale). Those between 130-230 pounds generally find medium to medium-firm mattresses (5-7) most supportive. Heavier individuals over 230 pounds typically need firmer options (7-9) to prevent excessive sinking and maintain support.
Consider these factors together, not separately. A heavy side sleeper might need a medium mattress with targeted pressure relief, while a lightweight stomach sleeper would benefit from a medium-firm to firm surface.
Benefits of Organic Mattresses
Organic mattresses offer significant advantages for health-conscious shoppers. These mattresses use natural materials like organic cotton, wool, and natural latex instead of synthetic foams and chemicals.
Key benefits include:
- Fewer chemicals and no toxic flame retardants
- Reduced exposure to VOCs (volatile organic compounds)
- Better breathability and temperature regulation
- Hypoallergenic properties for sensitive sleepers
- Eco-friendly manufacturing processes
Many organic mattresses carry certifications like GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) or GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard). These verify the authenticity of organic materials used.
While typically more expensive than conventional options, organic mattresses often last longer. Their durability can make them cost-effective over time, with lifespans commonly reaching 10-15 years with proper care.
Mattress for Side Sleepers
Side sleeping is the most common position, requiring specific mattress features for proper support. The ideal side sleeper mattress offers pressure relief at the shoulders and hips while maintaining spinal alignment.
Best mattress types for side sleepers:
| Mattress Type | Benefits for Side Sleepers |
|---|---|
| Memory Foam | Excellent contouring and pressure relief |
| Hybrid | Balanced support with comfort layers |
| Latex | Natural pressure relief with more responsiveness |
The mattress should have a softer comfort layer (2-3 inches) to allow shoulders and hips to sink in appropriately. A firmness level between 3-6 (soft to medium) works best for most side sleepers.
Side sleepers with shoulder pain should look for models with zoned support systems. These designs provide extra cushioning at pressure points while maintaining proper support for the waist and lower back.
Budgeting for Quality
Quality mattresses represent an investment in health and wellbeing. Entry-level quality options typically start around $600-$800 for queen size, while mid-range models fall between $800-$1,500.
Setting a realistic budget means balancing immediate financial constraints with long-term value. A $1,000 mattress lasting 10 years costs just $100 annually—a reasonable investment for better sleep.
Many manufacturers offer financing options with 0% interest for qualified buyers. These plans can make higher-quality mattresses more accessible without requiring full payment upfront.
Ways to save without sacrificing quality:
- Shop during holiday sales (Memorial Day, Labor Day, Black Friday)
- Look for bundle deals including free pillows or bedding
- Consider direct-to-consumer brands that eliminate retailer markups
- Check for manufacturer closeouts on previous year’s models
Remember that extremely cheap mattresses often lead to earlier replacement costs and poorer sleep quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mattress selection involves several important considerations including filling materials, firmness levels, and size options. These factors directly affect comfort, support, and overall sleep quality for different sleeping positions and health needs.
What are the benefits of different mattress fillings?
Memory foam mattresses contour to your body shape, relieving pressure points and reducing motion transfer. This makes them ideal for couples and those with joint pain.
Innerspring mattresses offer excellent airflow and bounce. Their coil systems provide responsive support and tend to sleep cooler than foam options.
Latex mattresses combine durability with natural materials. They provide responsive support similar to innerspring but with better motion isolation and hypoallergenic properties.
Hybrid mattresses blend coil support with foam comfort layers. This combination delivers balanced benefits of both pressure relief and breathability.
How do I choose the best type of mattress for back pain relief?
Medium-firm mattresses typically provide the best balance for back pain sufferers. They offer enough support to maintain proper spine alignment without being too rigid.
Look for mattresses with targeted lumbar support features. These designs reinforce the lower back area to prevent sinking and maintain the natural curve of the spine.
Consider memory foam or latex options with good pressure relief. These materials can reduce tension in problem areas while supporting the body’s natural alignment.
What are the key differences between firm and soft mattresses?
Firm mattresses provide more surface resistance and less sinking. This makes them better for stomach sleepers, heavier individuals, and those needing maximum support.
Soft mattresses allow deeper body contouring and cushioning. They work well for side sleepers who need pressure relief at the shoulders and hips.
The primary distinction involves how weight distributes across the surface. Firm models keep the body more “on top” of the mattress while soft versions create a more cradled feeling.
Can you explain the variations in mattress sizes and their compatibility with bed frames?
Twin mattresses (38″ x 75″) fit single sleepers in compact spaces. They work with standard twin frames and are common in children’s rooms and dorm settings.
Queen mattresses (60″ x 80″) accommodate couples comfortably. This popular size fits most standard queen frames and works in average-sized bedrooms.
King mattresses (76″ x 80″) offer maximum width for couples. They require larger bedrooms and specific king-sized frames for proper support.
California King mattresses (72″ x 84″) provide extra length for taller individuals. These require specialized frames and have slightly less width than standard kings.
How does mattress type impact overall sleep quality and body support?
Mattress construction directly affects spinal alignment during sleep. Proper support keeps the spine in a neutral position, reducing morning stiffness and pain.
Temperature regulation varies significantly between mattress types. Innerspring and hybrid models typically sleep cooler than all-foam options, which can improve comfort for hot sleepers.
Motion isolation differs across mattress categories. Memory foam excels at preventing movement transfer, helping couples sleep undisturbed when partners shift position.
What factors should be considered when selecting a mattress for side, back, or stomach sleepers?
Side sleepers benefit from softer, pressure-relieving surfaces. Medium to medium-soft mattresses cushion shoulders and hips while maintaining proper alignment.
Back sleepers need balanced support with moderate contouring. Medium-firm mattresses typically work best by supporting the lower back while allowing slight sinking for comfort.
Stomach sleepers require firmer surfaces to prevent excessive sinking. Firm mattresses keep the hips aligned with the shoulders, reducing strain on the lower back.
Body weight also influences the ideal firmness level. Heavier individuals generally need firmer support regardless of sleep position, while lighter sleepers may prefer softer surfaces.