Best Firm Mattresses
A firm mattress can have great benefits on your sleep health. However, it is essential you find the right one for you. Let's take a look at some of our favorites.
Mattress Nerd consulted Dr. Max Cohen, DC, CCEP to ensure that this article met our editorial standards
If you are looking for a new mattress on the firmer side, but find yourself unsure which firmness level or bed is right for you, this guide can help! The firmness is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best mattress.
If you’re a stomach sleeper, a heavy sleeper, or maybe you suffer from back pain, a firm supportive mattress can be a great option for you. Some people may not even realize they prefer a firmer mattress until they try it. Luckily, all of the options we’ll review in this guide offer a generous trial period for customers to fall in love with their bed if they aren’t so sure upon purchase.
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Best Firm Mattresses of 2022
- Best Extra Firm Mattress – Plank by Brooklyn Bedding
- Best Firm Mattress for Heavy People – Helix Dawn Luxe
- Best Firm Hybrid Mattress – Saatva
- Best Firm Innerspring Mattress – WinkBed
- Best Firm Mattress for Couples – Nectar
- Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress – Bear
- Best Firm Luxury Mattress – Nolah Evolution
- Best Cooling Firm Mattress – DreamCloud Original
- Best Firm Mattress for Kids – Leesa Studio
- Best Flippable Firm Mattress – Layla Hybrid
Chosen by Experts and Advocates
Our team at Mattress Nerd utilizes a firmness scale of 1–10, with 1 being extremely soft and 10 being extremely firm. Every mattress on this list has been graded a 6/10 or above on this firmness scale, as well as run through a series of tests to determine durability, edge support, pressure relief, and overall quality.
Our seasoned group of mattress testers consists of editors, writers, and sleep science coaches, all of whom have different body types and sleep preferences. As such, each mattress can be graded not just on how it performs, but how it performs for specific types of sleepers. The firm mattresses on this list impressed the dedicated stomach sleepers and larger individuals on our team by providing them adequate support without sacrificing comfort. To learn more, check out our review process.
Best Extra Firm Mattress – Plank
The Plank mattress by Brooklyn Bedding is one of the firmest mattresses on the market. It's a flippable mattress with a Firm side (7.5/10) and Extra Firm side (9/10). It has firm foam layers on both sides and dense foam core in between.
The Plank mattress by Brooklyn Bedding is one of the firmest mattresses on the market. It's a flippable mattress with a Firm side (7.5/10) and Extra Firm side (9/10). It has firm foam layers on both sides and dense foam core in between.
The Plank mattress by Brooklyn Bedding is one of the firmest mattresses on the market. It's a flippable mattress with a Firm side (7.5/10) and Extra Firm side (9/10). It has firm foam layers on both sides and dense foam core in between.
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Like its name suggests, the Plank mattress by Brooklyn Bedding is one of the firmest mattresses on the market. This is a flippable mattress with a firm side (a 7 on the firmness scale) and an extra firm side (a 9 on the firmness scale). It has foam layers on both sides and a top comfort layer of quilted foam for some cushioning.
The Plank is minimally conforming. It’s s a great option for stomach sleepers and those who weigh over 230 pounds. In addition, this bed excels at motion isolation and makes no noise while bearing weight, so it’s a great option for couples. If your posture is a concern, this mattress promises to keep it in check while you sleep. The Plank increases blood flow to all areas of the body, while keeping sleepers cool and giving them a customizable sleeping experience.
Read our full Plank Mattress Review to learn more.
Best Firm Mattress for Heavy People – Helix Dawn
The Helix Dawn is designed for stomach and back sleepers, providing firm support while protecting the spine. With little give and less pressure relief than softer mattresses, the Helix Dawn makes it easy to move around on the mattress.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Helix Dawn is designed for stomach and back sleepers, providing firm support while protecting the spine. With little give and less pressure relief than softer mattresses, the Helix Dawn makes it easy to move around on the mattress.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Helix Dawn is designed for stomach and back sleepers, providing firm support while protecting the spine. With little give and less pressure relief than softer mattresses, the Helix Dawn makes it easy to move around on the mattress.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Helix Dawn Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Helix Dawn Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Helix Dawn Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Helix has designed several versions of their mattress, one to suit every type of sleeper. Some of the factors they considered include weight, body type and sleeping position, as one mattress does not fit all. Their firmer mattress options include the Helix Twilight and the Helix Dawn. Both offer a layered composition of memory foam and dynamic foam to create the right combination of pressure relief and contouring for the body. Bottom line: They are comfortable, yet solid.
The Helix Dawn Luxe mattress’s combination of foam and pocketed coils give it a firm, supportive feel that’s perfect for larger sleepers. The Dawn is best suited for back and stomach sleepers and conforms well to the body, while the Twilight Luxe is the best mattress for side sleepers and provides excellent pressure-point relief. All Helix mattresses come with free shipping to the United States, a 100-night trial and a 10-year warranty. Helix is also one of our top picks for the best bed-in-a-box.
Read our full Helix Dawn Mattress Review for more details. Not interested in the Helix Dawn mattress? Check out our list for best mattress for heavy people to find other great recommendations.
Best Firm Hybrid Mattress – Saatva
The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress delivered to your home by delivery professionals. It's made with luxury materials like organic cotton, a plush pillow top, and durable coils. Choose from Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm options.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress delivered to your home by delivery professionals. It's made with luxury materials like organic cotton, a plush pillow top, and durable coils. Choose from Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm options.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress delivered to your home by delivery professionals. It's made with luxury materials like organic cotton, a plush pillow top, and durable coils. Choose from Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm options.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Saatva Mattress
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Saatva Mattress
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Saatva Mattress
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
The Saatva is a hybrid mattress that comes in three different firmness levels: plush soft, luxury firm and firm. While the luxury firm is their best-seller, if you prefer a mattress with a little extra firmness, the firm option is the better choice.
The construction starts at the top layer with a thin piece of quilted organic cotton foam to cushion your joints and provide pressure-point relief. Underneath that is a layer of individually wrapped pocket coils designed to conform to your body and reduce motion transfer. Saatva also contains a layer of gel memory foam that supports the spine. Their goal was to make an affordable luxury product with complementary white glove delivery, free removal of your old mattress and excellent customer service.
Read our full Saatva Mattress Review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Saatva mattress, check out our list of the best hybrid mattresses for more great options.
Best Firm Innerspring Mattress – WinkBed
The WinkBed is available in four different firmness options. We particularly love it for hot sleepers because of its great temperature regulation, and it’s great for combination sleepers because of its responsiveness.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The WinkBed is available in four different firmness options. We particularly love it for hot sleepers because of its great temperature regulation, and it’s great for combination sleepers because of its responsiveness.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The WinkBed is available in four different firmness options. We particularly love it for hot sleepers because of its great temperature regulation, and it’s great for combination sleepers because of its responsiveness.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
How firm would you like your mattress? At WinkBeds, you get four firmness options: soft, luxury firm, firmer and plus, with the luxury firm being the most popular. All this support adds up to a mattress that can handle any sleep position. It’s good for side, back and stomach sleepers, as well as combination sleepers, thanks to its hybrid design with both innerspring layers and multiple layers of foam.
Handmade to order in the USA, this luxury mattress also features a natural eucalyptus-derived TENCEL cover (think cooling) and a Euro-pillow top with gel-infused foam (even more cooling). At 14” tall, it’s a plush, sturdy combination of contouring foam and steel coils, making it a long-lasting, durable mattress at a nicer price point than other luxury beds with similar features.
See our WinkBeds mattress reviews for more details. Looking for other great options? Check out our best innerspring mattress guide to find more recommendations.
Best Firm Mattress for Couples – Nectar
The Nectar is a value memory foam mattress that excels at providing pressure relief and minimizing motion transfer. The medium-firm feel is ideal for cradling pressure points. Plus, it comes with a yearlong trial period and Lifetime warranty.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Nectar is a value memory foam mattress that excels at providing pressure relief and minimizing motion transfer. The medium-firm feel is ideal for cradling pressure points. Plus, it comes with a yearlong trial period and Lifetime warranty.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Nectar is a value memory foam mattress that excels at providing pressure relief and minimizing motion transfer. The medium-firm feel is ideal for cradling pressure points. Plus, it comes with a yearlong trial period and Lifetime warranty.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
The Nectar, with a firmness of 6.5/10, just barely qualifies for our list of the best firm mattresses, but we simply had to include it because of how well it performs for couples. Specifically, this mattress scored a perfect 5/5 on our motion isolation test, meaning your partner can be tossing, turning, shifting, and squirming on their side of the bed and you won’t feel much of anything on your side.
If your two top priorities in shopping for a mattress are firmness and accommodation for couples, then the Nectar should be at the top of your list. Plus, it goes for the relatively affordable price of $1,298 for a Queen (before sales and discounts) and comes with a lifetime warranty.
See our full Nectar Mattress Review for more details. Not interested in the Nectar Mattress? Check out our list of best mattresses for couples guide to see more recommendations.
Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress – Bear
Designed for people with active lifestyles, the Original Bear mattress is Bear’s flagship model. It features foams that work well for sleepers of all positions and sizes. The bed's standout cover includes Celliant, which converts body heat into infrared energy to promote muscle recovery.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Designed for people with active lifestyles, the Original Bear mattress is Bear’s flagship model. It features foams that work well for sleepers of all positions and sizes. The bed's standout cover includes Celliant, which converts body heat into infrared energy to promote muscle recovery.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Designed for people with active lifestyles, the Original Bear mattress is Bear’s flagship model. It features foams that work well for sleepers of all positions and sizes. The bed's standout cover includes Celliant, which converts body heat into infrared energy to promote muscle recovery.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Bear Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Financing Options
Bear Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Financing Options
Bear Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Financing Options
Made with pain relief and comfort in mind, the Bear Mattress can afford a great night’s sleep for active people. In fact, it was designed for athletes who will benefit from its Celliant cover that promotes healthy blood flow and cooling for faster recovery times. At a more firm level of 7 out of 10, the Bear Original features four foam layers to ease pressure on key areas of the body (hips, back and shoulders).
The graphite gel infused into the first layer of memory foam adds another cooling effect, which also boosts recovery times. In sum, we recommend this mattress for all weights of back sleepers, and lightweight to average-weight side sleepers. It has a bouncier, more responsive feel than classic memory foam, which should also appeal to combination sleepers who change sleep positions through the night.
Read our full Bear Mattress Review for more information. Looking for other options besides the Bear? Check out our best memory foam mattresses to find the mattress for you.
Best Firm Luxury Mattress: Nolah Evolution
The Nolah Evolution 15" mattress is a robust hybrid bed that's a bit softer than the average mattress: great for back sleepers and side sleepers. The individually wrapped coils include zoned support, which helps promote adequate spinal alignment.
The Nolah Evolution 15" mattress is a robust hybrid bed that's a bit softer than the average mattress: great for back sleepers and side sleepers. The individually wrapped coils include zoned support, which helps promote adequate spinal alignment.
The Nolah Evolution 15" mattress is a robust hybrid bed that's a bit softer than the average mattress: great for back sleepers and side sleepers. The individually wrapped coils include zoned support, which helps promote adequate spinal alignment.
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
With three different firmness options, the Nolah Evolution features a luxurious and tall combination of foam and coil layers that ease pressure on key areas of the body (hips, back, and shoulders). The breathable pocketed coils combined with the gel foam adds another cooling effect, which also boosts recovery times.
We recommend the firm options of this mattress for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and heavyweight side sleepers. It has a bouncier, more responsive feel than other Nolah mattresses, which should also appeal to combination sleepers who change sleep positions through the night.
Read our full Nolah Evolution mattress review to learn more. Looking for other options besides the Nolah? Check out our list of best luxury mattresses for more great recommendations.
Best Cooling Firm Mattress: DreamCloud Original
The DreamCloud is a luxury hybrid bed that features a cashmere cover and gel-infused foam. It rates highly in motion isolation, temperature regulation, responsiveness, and every other category we rated it on.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The DreamCloud is a luxury hybrid bed that features a cashmere cover and gel-infused foam. It rates highly in motion isolation, temperature regulation, responsiveness, and every other category we rated it on.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The DreamCloud is a luxury hybrid bed that features a cashmere cover and gel-infused foam. It rates highly in motion isolation, temperature regulation, responsiveness, and every other category we rated it on.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.DreamCloud Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Financing Options
DreamCloud Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Financing Options
DreamCloud Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Financing Options
If you are a hot sleeper looking for a firm mattress, the DreamCloud OG is your perfect match. A lot of mattresses claim to have “cooling features” and promise not to trap body heat, but how many of them have cashmere in the cover along with their gel foam and breathable coils? To have as many added features and the proven ability to perform like a cooling mattress, DreamCloud sells at a very reasonable price.
Whether you sleep alone, with a partner or with a pet, this mattress promises you an undisturbed night’s sleep, and DreamCloud does live up to that promise as far as motion transfer goes. The memory foam absorbs most of the movement, so you shouldn’t be shaken around by a restless sleeper.
Plus, some combination sleepers complain that they feel “stuck” in memory foam and find them hard to move around on. But the coils make movement easy. All in all, this mattress is a great value that will keep you comfortable and cool.
Read our full DreamCloud Mattress Review for more information. Not interested in the DreamCloud? Check out our list of best cooling mattresses for other great recommendations.
Best Firm Mattress for Kids – Leesa Studio
Leesa's most affordable mattress yet, the Studio is a no-frills option made for the average sleeper. Its three layers of memory foam provide pressure relief, support and cradling, so it's great for side, stomach and back sleepers alike.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Leesa's most affordable mattress yet, the Studio is a no-frills option made for the average sleeper. Its three layers of memory foam provide pressure relief, support and cradling, so it's great for side, stomach and back sleepers alike.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Leesa's most affordable mattress yet, the Studio is a no-frills option made for the average sleeper. Its three layers of memory foam provide pressure relief, support and cradling, so it's great for side, stomach and back sleepers alike.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Studio by Leesa Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Studio by Leesa Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Studio by Leesa Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
When searching for the best kids’ mattress, it’s important to consider that your child is still changing and growing. The Leesa Studio, in our opinion, accommodates excellently. In fact, this mattress should be suitable for lightweight sleepers in all sleeping positions. So even if your child changes sleeping positions as they age, they should still feel comfortable and supported. This is primarily due to the Leesa Studio’s combination of high-density foundation foam, as well as cushy, slow-moving memory foam.
With that said, this medium-firm construction allows for versatility and makes the mattress ideal for maintaining proper spinal alignment and alleviating growing pains. Even better, the Leesa Studio appears on our most affordable mattresses roundup.
Read our full Leesa Studio mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Leesa Studio, check out our list of the best mattresses for kids for more great options.
Best Flippable Firm Mattress: Layla Hybrid
The Layla Hybrid mattress resembles the original Layla in temperature neutrality, comfort and dual-firmness. In addition, the hybrid's pocketed coil core improves edge support and responsiveness.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Layla Hybrid mattress resembles the original Layla in temperature neutrality, comfort and dual-firmness. In addition, the hybrid's pocketed coil core improves edge support and responsiveness.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Layla Hybrid mattress resembles the original Layla in temperature neutrality, comfort and dual-firmness. In addition, the hybrid's pocketed coil core improves edge support and responsiveness.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Layla Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Layla Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Layla Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
For indecisive shoppers, the Layla mattress provides two different firmness levels to choose from: a soft side and a firm side. This is a flippable bed, so those options stay in your home. The firm side of Layla is a 6.5/10, or medium firm. This is great for back and stomach sleepers, as well as some side sleepers.
With current deals, the Layla Hybrid will cost you under $1,500, but we think that the supportive, firm, high-quality construction makes this mattress worth considering. If you’re interested in memory foam instead, check out our review of the Layla mattress.
Read our full Layla Hybrid Mattress Review for more information.
Mattress Buying Guide
When shopping for any type of mattress, there are some factors that should always be top of mind. These attributes are the ones that we look at when testing a mattress in our lab; they give us a sense of the product’s overall quality, and allow us to make thoughtful recommendations based on your specific needs and preferences.
Motion Isolation – One of the most important factors for couples, good motion isolation helps to keep your partner’s movements from disturbing your sleep. For a firm mattress that excels in this field, make sure you look for something with dense foam layers.
Pressure Relief – Our pressure relief tests measure how well a mattress supports and comforts sensitive areas of your body, such as the hips and shoulders. Firm mattresses tend to do a better job of relieving pressure in heavyweight sleepers and stomach sleepers.
Ease of Movement – If you tend to toss and turn in your sleep, you’ll want a mattress with a high ease-of-movement score, as it will make it much easier for you to switch from side to back to stomach. Thankfully, firm mattresses usually do a great job of this because they don’t allow you to sink too far below the surface.
Edge Support – Good edge support in a mattress means there’s a strong perimeter, so you can sit or lie on the far edges of the bed without it sagging underneath your weight. Firm mattresses usually excel when it comes to this.
Temperature Control – If you sleep hot at night, you’ll definitely want a mattress that does a good job of regulating temperature. Something that has good breathability (like a hybrid) or contains cooling materials (like copper infusions or gel foam) will help keep you from overheating as you sleep.
Durability – Finally, durability measures how well a mattress will maintain its structural integrity over the years. If you’re looking to purchase a mattress that will last you up to a decade then high durability is essential.
Mattress Firmness Scale
Firmness is judged differently from person to person based on your comfort level. But for the purpose of internet shopping, there is a scale that all mattress manufacturers use to help guide customers during their purchase. The scale goes from 1 to 10, with 1 being extremely soft and 10 being extremely firm.
1: Extremely Soft These are plush mattresses that you can sink into.
2–3: Soft Slightly more firm than extremely soft, but still have a “sinking” feeling.
4–6: Medium These mattresses are not too soft, but not too hard. Many hybrid mattresses are medium firmness.
7–9: Firm These are less conforming, stiffer mattresses that you don’t sink into.
10: Extremely Firm These are very hard and stiff. There is no sinking or softness.
For a more comprehensive breakdown, head over to our mattress firmness guide.
Understanding Your Ideal Firmness
Mattress firmness can be a difficult thing to communicate to someone who hasn’t tried the mattress. A number of variables play into whether a particular firmness level will provide you with that perfect blend of support and comfort; body type, sleeping position, history of back pain, and personal preference are just a few.
The purpose of this buyer’s guide is to provide you with a better understanding of the characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks of a firm mattress so you can make a more educated purchase when shopping for an online mattress.
Related: Soft vs. Firm Mattresses
Who Are Firm Mattresses Best For?
It’s no secret that firm beds are not for everyone. However, there are many categories of people who are likely to prefer and/or benefit from a firm mattress:
Sleepers with Back Pain
We often find firm mattresses to be some of the best mattresses for back pain, as they can keep your spine better aligned by supporting the hips and shoulders . The improved spinal alignment that firm mattresses provide can reduce the likelihood of added soreness because of the mattress.
Big & Tall Sleepers
Firm mattresses can also help provide support for those who carry more bodyweight and sink too deeply into soft mattresses. If you’re heavier than average (around 230 lbs) there’s a good chance that a firm mattress will feel perfectly soft to you, while still supporting sensitive areas.
Related: Best Mattresses for Heavy People
Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleepers of average or heavy weight tend to do well on a firm mattress. The reason being that if the mattress is too soft, then the front of their hips will sink deep into the mattress, throwing their spine out of alignment and possibly leading to soreness. Lightweight stomach sleepers, however, can likely get by with a medium-firm mattress.
Who Are Firm Mattresses Not Best For?
Lightweight Sleepers
If you’re less than 130 lbs and you lie down on a firm mattress, there’s a chance it’ll feel like lying on the floor. That’s because your body does not have enough weight to push you into the surface of the mattress. This is especially the case for lightweight side and back sleepers, who need a decent amount of sinkage around their hips and shoulders to relieve the pressure in those areas. We suggest you hop over to our best plush mattresses page for some great suggestions for lighter folks.
Side Sleepers
As we alluded to above, side sleepers need a mattress with a good amount of give. Of course, there should be some support provided, but it’s very important for the hips and shoulders to be properly cushioned by the bed. If your mattress is too firm, it can push against your shoulder and cause stress on the area. If this is something you’re experiencing as a side sleeper, it could be that your mattress is too firm.
Take a look at the roundup we put together, which includes recommendations for the best mattress for side sleepers with shoulder pain.
Back Sleepers
Most back sleepers should look for a mattress right in the middle of the firmness scale, either medium-soft or medium firm. That’s because if you sleep on your back, your hips need to sink into the mattress just a little bit—enough to be cushioned but not so much that your spine gets thrown out of alignment. With a firm mattress, you run the risk of resting on top of the mattress rather than slightly in the mattress.
Types of Firm Mattresses
Innerspring
What is an Innerspring Mattress? Invented in 1871, the innerspring is what most people think of when they think “traditional mattress.” Think of brands like Serta Simmons, and other long-standing brands available in most brick and mortar stores. They are a mattress constructed with a layer of coils as their support and do not have a lot of material on top of those coils, making them very firm options. Are innerspring mattresses firm? In short, yes. They tend to be some of the firmest options on the market since they typically do not have a comfort layer overtop the coil base. While there have been many improvements to innerspring mattresses since their creation, they are still not hailed as the most comfortable or pressure-relieving models. Take a look at our best innerspring mattress article for some of our favorites.
Hybrid
What is a Hybrid Mattress? A hybrid mattress is a fusion of an innerspring base with a comfort layer on top of the coils. This comfort layer could be made of latex, various foams, and other cotton and polyester blends. Are hybrid mattresses firm? A hybrid’s firmness can vary depending on the thickness of the comfort layer. Where traditional innerspring mattresses can fall short in motion isolation and relieving pressure, a hybrid can combine the firm base of coils with some additional comfort. Our best hybrid mattresses article has more information.
Foam
What is a foam mattress? While memory foam is possibly the most popular of the mattress foams, there are dozens of polyfoams, gel foams and foam blends that are used to create foam mattresses. They range in layers of different types of foams from the dense base layer to varying comfort top layers. Are foam mattresses firm? Depending on the density of the foam used in the layers, foam mattresses can range from very soft to relatively firm. Most of these firmness levels will depend on the sleeper’s weight, and how far they sink into the first layer of foam. Head over to our article on the best foam mattresses if you’re interested.
Latex
What is a latex mattress? Latex mattresses are constructed from a combination of latex (a rubbery like substance), foams and/or coils, that results in a bouncy, supportive surface. Are latex mattresses firm? Latex has a unique feeling if you have never slept on it before. They are a very popular choice for those in search of pressure relief and are much more breathable than some memory foam. They range from soft to very firm and have grown in popularity due to their use of natural materials. See our best latex mattresses for more information.
Popular Accessories For Firm Beds
Mattress Toppers
There are now more ways than ever to customize your mattress. If you are in need of more support but tend to like a softer surface, consider the addition of a euro or pillow top to your bed. These toppers are made in a variety of materials that give your firm mattress a more plush feel. Our best mattress toppers guide should help you find what you’re looking for. Or, if you’re a side sleeper who feels that your mattress is too firm, our specific best mattress toppers for side sleepers can help add some softness to the equation.
Pillows
If you are shopping for a firm mattress due to neck, back or hip pain, you may want to consider the addition of a pillow depending on your sleeping position. Pillows come in every shape and size from a wedge pillow to flat and from small to large. There are pillows for every pain concern. This can add some focused support to different areas of the body. Take a peek at our best pillows roundup for suggestions that pertain to every sleeping situation.
FAQ
Does weight affect how firm a mattress feels?
Your weight is the number one thing that will determine how firm, or how soft, a mattress feels to you. Mattresses are constructed of multiple layers, most of which become denser (firmer) as you get closer to the base of the mattress.
On some mattresses, if you are a heavier person (over 230 pounds), you will sink into the mattress more, meaning you will feel more of the firmer materials deeper in the mattress. If you are a heavier person who likes a firmer mattress, you want to make sure you are feeling a comfortable firm.
Look for beds that have a firm, or more dense, top/comfort layer. This means you will be feeling the firmness intended for the sleeper to feel, not the inner layers.
Which sleeping positions are firm mattresses best for?
Technically, all sleeping positions can sleep and find comfort on a firm mattress. However, if you are a side sleeper, you are the one sleeping position I would caution. Side sleepers have to find a delicate balance of supporting their spine, as well as avoiding jamming their hips and shoulders
For stomach and back sleepers, a firmer mattress is typically best. If a mattress is too soft, it can cause the hips to sink down in these positions, throwing the spine out of alignment and increasing the risk for aches and pains.
Combination sleepers will find that firmer mattresses are easier to move around on, but may not provide that “contouring feeling” once you get into your next comfortable position, so it is more about personal preference.
Is a firm mattress good for your back?
While the effects may differ depending on your weight and preferred sleeping position, firm mattresses tend to provide more support than soft mattresses, which can result in better spinal alignment and less back pain. For a more detailed breakdown of how you can avoid aches and pain, check out our article on sleep and back pain.
Will a firm mattress soften over time?
Regardless of how well you take care of your mattress, it will soften as you sleep on it and break it in. If you want to keep your mattress firm, there are some steps you can take to slow down the softening process.
First, consider purchasing a mattress topper. While they can make your sleeping surface soften because of the added cushion, the extra layer will protect the integrity of your actual mattress and aid in preserving its firmness.
Also, make sure you rotate your mattress a couple of times per year, This will ensure that no single part of the bed has too much stress on it for a prolonged period of time.
What is the best firm mattress topper?
If you’d like an added layer of cushion on your mattress but don’t want to sacrifice too much firmness, check out our TEMPUR-Topper Supreme review.
Recap of the Best Rated Firm Mattresses
| Mattress | Award | Mattress Type |
| Plank by Brooklyn Bedding | Best Extra Firm Mattress | Hybrid |
| Helix Dawn Luxe | Best Firm Mattress for Heavy People | Hybrid |
| Saatva | Best Firm Hybrid Mattress | Hybrid |
| WinkBeds | Best Firm Innerspring Mattress | Innerspring |
| Nectar | Best Firm Mattress for Couples | Foam |
| Bear | Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress | Foam |
| Nolah Evolution | Best Firm Luxury Mattress | Foam |
| DreamCloud Original | Best Cooling Firm Mattress | Foam |
| Leesa Studio | Best Firm Mattress for Kids | Foam |
| Layla Hybrid | Best Flippable Firm Mattress | Hybrid |
Dr. Max Cohen is part of our panel of medical expert contributors on the subject of sleep health. They provide important perspectives on the topics we discuss to help make our content as accurate and dependable as possible. They do not personally endorse any products, nor are they associated with any brands featured in our review content.
