Many companies in the sleep industry advertise that their mattress is the softest and most pressure-relieving. But how about those sleepers wanting the best firm mattress? We’re here to help those prioritizing support above all else. As a result, we’ve created this roundup of our top picks for the best firm mattresses. While a couple of beds on this list aren’t technically firm on the firmness scale (8/10 and up), all 10 beds are firmer than average. So, they have an “on-top-of” feel and offer the support stomach sleepers and some back sleepers need.
Best Firm Mattresses of 2022: Our Top 10 Picks!
- Best Overall – Plank
- Best Firm Hybrid Mattress – Helix Dawn
- Best Firm Mattress for Back Pain – DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid
- Best Firm Innerspring Mattress – Saatva
- Best Medium-Firm Mattress – WinkBeds
- Best Firm Mattress for Couples – Emma CliMax Hybrid
- Best Affordable Firm Mattress – Titan Plus
- Best Firm Pressure-Relieving Mattress – Nectar Hybrid
- Best Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers – Layla
- Best Cooling Firm Mattress – Leesa Original
How We Chose Our Products
Our team of sleep specialists have reviewed more than 150 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period, and warranty.
For our roundup of the best firm mattress, our first parameter was that all products need multiple firmness options or above-average firmness. An effective firm mattress has lots of support and durability, so we chose beds scoring high in both categories. Of the 10 products on this list, eight of them scored a 4 out of 5 or higher in these two areas.
Video Review: Best Firm Mattresses
The Plank Firm is a very firm mattress that is a great match for stomach sleepers and those who need extra support.
The Plank Firm is a very firm mattress that is a great match for stomach sleepers and those who need extra support.
The Plank Firm is a very firm mattress that is a great match for stomach sleepers and those who need extra support.
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
If you’re tired of firm mattresses still not being firm enough, then the Plank Firm from Brooklyn Bedding could be a great fit for you. The Plank is one of the best extra-firm mattresses on the market, and it provides a flat sleeping surface. This flippable mattress has a firm side (an 8 out of 10 on the firmness scale) and an ultra-firm side (a 9 out of 10 on the firmness scale). The Plank is also one of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers, who need extra support.
Benefits
- Brooklyn Bedding owns its own factory, allowing the company to cut out the middleman and sell their high-quality value mattresses for a lower price.
- Back sleepers who prefer a firmer mattress could find what they’re looking for on both sides of the Plank.
- There’s also the Plank Firm Luxe mattress, which is a hybrid mattress with coils in the support layer.
Drawbacks
- Side sleepers and back sleepers wanting a cushy feel need a softer mattress.
Read our full Plank Firm mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses 2022 for more great options.
The Helix Dawn is one of the company's firmest models. Because of this, it should be a supportive option for stomach sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Helix Dawn is one of the company's firmest models. Because of this, it should be a supportive option for stomach sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Helix Dawn is one of the company's firmest models. Because of this, it should be a supportive option for stomach sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Helix Dawn Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Helix Dawn Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Helix Dawn Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
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
As a brand, Helix focuses on customization and flexibility, and they created the Helix Dawn as their firmest model (7.5/10 on the firmness scale). This bed has a hybrid composition of latex foam, polyfoam, and individually wrapped coils, all of which work together to provide a responsive and supportive feel. Stomach sleepers should enjoy the way this mattress elevates their hips and keeps their spine aligned.
Benefits
- The company offers Luxe upgrades for all of their mattresses, adding features such as a quilted pillow-top, zoned coils, and a breathable Tencel cover.
- Both sides of the mattress can be customized, so it’s great for couples with different sleeping preferences.
- Hot sleepers should appreciate the hybrid construction’s breathable latex-foam alternative. Plus, the coils leave plenty of room for airflow.
Drawbacks
- Those who enjoy a slow-moving memory foam feel will probably want a softer mattress.
Read our full Helix Dawn mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Hybrid Mattresses for more great options.
The DreamCloud is a high-quality hybrid mattress that is sold for a value price.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The DreamCloud is a high-quality hybrid mattress that is sold for a value price.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The DreamCloud is a high-quality hybrid mattress that is sold for a value price.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.DreamCloud Original Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Financing Options
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Financing Options
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
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
Back pain can disrupt your life, and sometimes this discomfort is exacerbated by an uncomfortable mattress. If you’re searching for a firm bed that will also help ease the pain, check out the DreamCloud. It creates both comfort and support, and this balanced feel is essential for maintaining proper alignment. This hybrid mattress is made with high-quality materials, so it’s especially durable.
Benefits
- There’s a tufted pillow-top and a soft cover made of a cashmere-blend material.
- The soft memory foam layer creates much-needed pressure relief, and the individually wrapped coils provide support.
- As a brand, DreamCloud has impressive customer service terms, such as a one-year sleep trial period and a lifetime warranty.
Drawbacks
- Heavier sleepers may want a more supportive mattress.
Read our full DreamCloud mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Back Pain for more great options.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
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 available in three different firmnesses. For purposes of this roundup, we have to recommend the Firm model. It features memory foam, a cushy pillow-top, and two sets of coils. The construction gives this mattress a supportive and traditional innerspring feel. In addition, the mattress is zoned so that it feels firmer toward the center, contouring to sensitive areas. The result is a firm mattress excellent for stomach-sleeping and back-sleeping.
Benefits
- The mattress features durable materials, so it should stay in good shape for many years.
- Hot sleepers should be comfortable on the Saatva, thanks to the airflow-promoting coils.
- The Saatva boasts a luxury look and feel, similar to a hotel bed.
Drawbacks
- If you prefer a super-soft feel, the Saatva may not be to your liking. Even the softest model — the Plush Soft — is likely going to be more responsive than your average bed.
Read our full Saatva mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Innerspring Mattresses for more great options.
Winkbeds has a mattress that is an excellent balance of comfort and support.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Winkbeds has a mattress that is an excellent balance of comfort and support.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Winkbeds has a mattress that is an excellent balance of comfort and support.
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
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
The majority of the mattresses on this roundup are a lot firmer than average, but what about those people who want something just a little firmer-than-average? Well, that’s where the WinkBed mattress comes in. It scored a 7 out of 10 on our firmness scale and is the best medium-firm mattress on our list. This makes the WinkBed a fantastic fit for back sleepers and side sleepers, who should find the blend of comfort and support they need to keep the body relaxed and properly aligned.
Benefits
- The WinkBed comes in multiple firmness options. So if you want something firmer or softer, you should be able to find a good fit.
- The mattress has a pillow-top feel, providing good pressure relief on those trouble areas while still allowing sleepers to move around.
- The WinkBed features a breathable cover and coils for airflow, meaning it shouldn’t sleep hot.
Drawbacks
- Some shoppers might find the WinkBed to be over their budget.
Read our full WinkBeds mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Medium-Firm Mattresses for more great options.
The Emma CliMax is a supportive, high-quality option for heavier people and couples.
The Emma CliMax is a supportive, high-quality option for heavier people and couples.
The Emma CliMax is a supportive, high-quality option for heavier people and couples.
Emma CliMax Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Emma CliMax Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Emma CliMax Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
The CliMax Hybrid — dreamed up by Emma — is a hybrid mattress made with quality foams and pocketed coils. What we love about this mattress is that it was made with couples and heavy sleepers in mind. With a 7.5/10 firmness, the bed’s support and durability are primary focuses. With its HRX Supreme Edge Support, couples should be able to make full use of the mattress surface. The CliMax Pocketed Springs in the support layer ensure that each partner is properly supported.
Benefits
- With an impressive construction and solid materials, this mattress should last you 10 years if not more.
- A cooling cover, breathable foam, and coils all contribute to this mattress’s great cooling ability.
- Emma offers a 365-night trial and a 10-year warranty, so there’s time for you and your partner to decide if it’s the best fit.
Drawbacks
- Most side sleepers and lightweight sleepers might want to seek something more pressure-relieving.
Read our full Emma CliMax Hybrid mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Couples for more great options.
The Titan Plus is Brooklyn Bedding's mattress for heavy people. It is a firm, supportive mattress that can support heavier weights.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Titan Plus is Brooklyn Bedding's mattress for heavy people. It is a firm, supportive mattress that can support heavier weights.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Titan Plus is Brooklyn Bedding's mattress for heavy people. It is a firm, supportive mattress that can support heavier weights.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 9/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 9/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 9/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Brooklyn Bedding is known for offering some of the most affordable mattresses on the market, including the Titan Plus model. The company owns their own factory, so they can price their products competitively. The Titan Plus consists of gel memory foam, two comfort foam layers, and 6” TitanCaliber coils. This construction provides great support and reduces sagging for heavier sleepers and stomach sleepers.
Benefits
- A gel-infused memory foam cover and coils promote good airflow.
- The Titan Plus could be a great choice for couples due to its motion isolation, edge support, and responsiveness.
- This mattress is resistant to sagging, due to its high-density memory foam and TitanFlex foam and industrial coils.
Drawbacks
- Lightweight sleepers, as well as heavyweight side sleepers, will likely want a softer mattress for more contouring.
Read our full Titan Plus mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Cheap Mattresses for more great options.
The Nectar Classic Hybrid is a comfortable and supportive mattress that should work well for hot sleepers and back sleepers.
The Nectar Classic Hybrid is a comfortable and supportive mattress that should work well for hot sleepers and back sleepers.
The Nectar Classic Hybrid is a comfortable and supportive mattress that should work well for hot sleepers and back sleepers.
Nectar Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nectar Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nectar Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
Those who need the support of a firm mattress but still want pressure relief (such as side sleepers) should consider the Nectar Hybrid. It’s a medium-firm option, so it effectively balances comfort and support. The soft memory-foam comfort layer contours to sensitive areas like the hips and shoulders. Beneath that, the transition and support layers provide a firm base.
Benefits
- The gel-infused memory foam, quilted cooling cover, and breathable coils are great for hot sleepers.
- Being a pressure-relieving mattress, the Nectar Hybrid is good at isolating motion. This is great news for couples who don’t want to wake each other up with their movements.
- This mattress has good edge support, an indicator of durability. It should last 7–10 years.
Drawbacks
- It won’t provide enough support for most stomach sleepers and may be uncomfortable for those who favor ultra-firm beds.
Learn more in our full Nectar Hybrid mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Pressure Points for more great options.
An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Layla Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Layla Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Layla Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
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 lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
While firm mattresses are great for stomach sleepers and back sleepers, they aren’t the best mattresses for side sleepers. Luckily, Layla features both a soft side and a firm side. This gives you two firmnesses in one mattress! Side sleepers should be most comfortable on the soft side, finding the right amount of pressure relief on their shoulders and hips. As for the firm side, a thin layer of copper-infused memory foam stretches over more supportive layers. Stomach sleepers should feel comfortable without experiencing excessive sinkage.
Benefits
- Back sleepers could be comfortable on both the soft and the firm side.
- The mattress boasts cooling Thermogel in its cover and copper infusions in the memory foam, making it ideal for hot sleepers.
- It’s a great bed for couples, as the foam has excellent motion isolation. You’re unlikely to feel your partner’s movements at night.
Drawbacks
- While the firm side is a good fit for stomach sleepers, it may not be able to accommodate heavy stomach sleepers over 230 lb.
Read our full Layla mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers for more great options.
Made with responsive foam, the Leesa Original mattress works well for side sleepers and hot sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Made with responsive foam, the Leesa Original mattress works well for side sleepers and hot sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Made with responsive foam, the Leesa Original mattress works well for side sleepers and hot sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Leesa Original Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Leesa Original Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Leesa Original Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
If you wake up feeling stuffy and sweaty, consider a cooling firm mattress like the Leesa Original. While all-foam mattresses have a reputation for trapping heat, the Leesa works to combat this issue with a breathable twill cover and LSA200 cooling foam. The base polyfoam layer is meant to balance the LSA200 foam’s comfort with a supportive foundation. This should help sleepers maintain proper spinal alignment.
Benefits
- The Leesa is one of our favorite mattresses for back sleepers.
- It has a balanced foam feel.
- It comes at a good price considering its quality, with a Queen often available at just under $2,000 after discounts.
Drawbacks
- The balanced feel may not appeal to sleepers who want something extra-soft or slow-moving.
Learn more in our full Leesa mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Cooling Mattresses for more great options.
Heavyweight Sleepers – Over 230 lb
Keep in mind that firmness is subjective, depending on one’s preferences and body type. A mattress that feels firm to one person might not feel the same to someone else.
For example, heavier people put more pressure on a mattress, sinking further into the layers and usually feeling the more firm base layer. Those who are around 230 lb or more typically experience a firmness around 1 to 1.5 points higher than average-weight people.
To rest comfortably on a mattress, heavy people should look for firmer mattresses with a dense comfort layer on top that prevents them from sinking too far into the sleep surface. We think the following firm mattresses fit this description and should be a good fit for larger sleepers.
Titan Plus
Brooklyn Bedding has a variety of models for all types of sleepers, from the extravagant Aurora Luxe to the more streamlined design of their Signature Hybrid mattress. The Titan Plus is the brand’s mattress that caters to heavy people, with features such as industrial-strength coils and responsive TitanFlex foam. It’s also one of the firmest beds around, clocking in at a 9 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale.
Big Fig
While we didn’t include it on this roundup, the Big Fig mattress is made specifically for larger people. It’s a very firm bed offering the support larger stomach sleepers need. Much larger back sleepers should also find this to be a fantastic match.
Plank Firm
The Plank Firm mattress from Brooklyn Bedding is the absolute firmest one we’ve slept on. Both sides are supportive, and the firm side is a fantastic fit for heavier stomach sleepers. The less firm side should be a better option for much heavier back sleepers.
Awara
This latex hybrid mattress provides the support heavier people need. The Awara is a particularly good choice for heavier back sleepers and stomach sleepers.
Helix
As a brand, Helix stands out because they’ll customize a mattress to meet sleepers’ specific needs. While we talked about the Helix Dawn in the above roundup, there’s also the Helix Plus, which is designed specifically for larger people.
RELATED: Best Mattresses for Heavy People
How to Choose a Firm Mattress
When you’re shopping for a firm mattress, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind, from the mattress construction to your own needs and preferences. Let’s dive into each of these factors in detail!
Mattress Firmness Scale
Most people who talk about mattresses score their firmness on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest. The majority of mattresses tend to fall between a 6–8 out of 10 with a medium to medium-firm firmness.
Anything in the 8–10 range (or sometimes the 7–10 range) can be considered a firm or extra-firm mattress. Most extra-firm mattresses you see (such as the Plank mattress) are a 9 out of 10.
RELATED: 2022 Mattress Buying Guide
Mattress Type
Innerspring mattresses are some of the firmest mattress types since they are made with layers of coils. Some innersprings are bouncier than others, but their surfaces are usually pretty firm. See our best innerspring mattresses to learn more.
Foam mattresses are some of the softest mattresses. Memory foam, gel foam, foam blend, and polyfoam mattresses are examples of this. Some of these beds are denser than others and can lean toward the medium-firm side. See our best memory foam mattresses to learn more.
Latex mattresses have a similar feel to foam beds, but they’re bouncier and more breathable. These beds can range from soft to firm depending on the indentation load deflection (ILD) ratings, a measurement similar to density. See our best latex mattresses to learn more.
Hybrid mattresses combine materials, using an innerspring base layer with a comfort layer or top made of materials like foam, latex, or wool. These beds can fall anywhere on the firmness spectrum, though they tend to be medium to medium-firm. See our best hybrid mattresses to learn more.
RELATED: How Is Natural Latex Made?
Benefits of a Firm Mattress
- Firm mattresses often support a neutral spine alignment and have great edge support.
- Firm mattresses isolate motion well. This is great for couples who want to avoid feeling their partner moving around on the bed.
- You won’t sink in too far. If you like sleeping on the bed rather than in the bed, this will appeal to you.
- Firm beds are better at supporting heavyweight people, allowing them to sleep comfortably.
Downsides to a Firm Mattress
- Firm mattresses are less pressure-relieving. Without a soft, contouring surface, you may develop pain in the shoulders, hips, and other pressure areas.
- It takes a more particular sleeper to be comfortable on a firm mattress. Most sleepers like a soft to medium mattress.
- Firm mattresses take longer to fully break in and adjust to. You may need to use more of your sleep trial period to determine if it’s the right type of bed for you.
RELATED: Firm vs Soft Mattress
Who Should Get a Firm Mattress?
- Stomach sleepers: Those who sleep primarily on their stomachs should consider a firm mattress. They want to ensure that
they’re getting enough support on their hips because, if not, they can bow into the mattress and cause the spine to get out of neutral alignment. - Back sleepers: Those who need the best mattress for back sleepers will also want something firmer, but not extremely firm. The bed should let their hips sink in just a bit while having enough support to prevent excessive sinkage.
- People who like to sleep on top of their mattress: For those who prefer not to sink into their mattress, a firm mattress is a safe bet. Firmer mattresses don’t have the “give” that one finds on softer mattresses, so most should be sleeping on top of the mattress as opposed to “in” it.
- Hot sleepers. When someone sleeps “on top” of a mattress, they have less of a chance of sleeping hot. In contrast, if someone sinks into a softer mattress (especially something with memory foam), they could feel overheated. That’s because memory foam can trap heat and direct it back at sleepers. Check out our best cooling mattress guide for more recommendations.
Who Shouldn’t Get a Firm Mattress?
- Side sleepers: In general, firm mattresses aren’t the best for side sleepers because they require a mattress that provides pressure relief for their shoulders and hips. Firm mattresses are not exceptional when it comes to pressure relief, so side sleepers should look for something softer. That being said, every now and then, a firm mattress can work for side sleepers. For example, take the Layla, which we mentioned in this article. Check out the best mattresses for side sleepers.
- Those who like to sink into their mattresses: These folks might not like a firm mattress. They’ll want to look for something softer, such as a mattress containing memory foam.
How to Make a Mattress Firmer
If you’re unhappy with your mattress’ current feel, there are some steps you can take to make your soft mattress firmer:
Check the Sleep Trial
If a mattress is within its sleep trial period, you can often return it and buy a firmer one.
Add Plywood
Adding a piece of plywood between the mattress and the foundation can give the mattress a firmer feel. It adds an additional layer of support and helps prevent the mattress from sagging.
Replace the Box Spring
Box springs can lose their support over time, so replacing your box spring with a newer, stronger foundation can create a firmer mattress feel. Box springs can last up to 10 years, so if you’ve had yours longer than that, consider getting a new one.
Get a Firmer Mattress Topper
Purchasing a firm mattress topper, such as the Avocado Mattress Topper, can add a new feel to your bed and provide additional support.
Flip Your Mattress
While not all mattresses are meant to be flipped, older mattresses and some innerspring mattresses should be flipped. The springs can wear out over time when someone sleeps in the same spot each night, so flipping your mattress can more evenly spread the wear and help prevent sagging.
Overall
In the end, a firm mattress can be a great fit for stomach sleepers, back sleepers, larger sleepers, and those who want extra support. As a reminder, here are our top picks for the best firm mattresses:
| Mattress | Best For |
| Plank Firm | Best Overall |
| Helix Dawn | Best Firm Hybrid Mattress |
| DreamCloud | Best Firm Mattress for Back Pain |
| Saatva | Best Firm Innerspring Mattress |
| WinkBed | Best Medium-Firm Mattress |
| Emma CliMax Hybrid | Best Firm Mattress for Couples |
| Titan Plus | Best Affordable Firm Mattress |
| Nectar Hybrid | Best Firm Pressure-Relieving Mattress |
| Layla | Best Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers |
| Leesa Original | Best Cooling Firm Mattress |
FAQs
Is an extra-firm mattress better for your back?
Those who sleep on their back or deal with back pain usually want to find a mattress that is approximately medium-firm. If a mattress is too firm, it could push the hips out of the bed and the spine out of proper neutral alignment. This could lead to significant issues with back pain.
Is a firm mattress good?
It really depends on what people are looking for. For instance, a firmer mattress might not be good for side-sleeping because it won't offer enough pressure relief. It could be good for people who require more support, such as back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and larger people.
Do firm mattresses get softer?
All mattresses, no matter how firm, will get softer over time. Materials such as memory foam and even coils will start to weaken after they've been in use for a few years. Some materials, such as latex foam, won't soften quite as quickly, however.
Can a firm mattress cause back pain?
While we wish we could get a straight answer, whether or not a firm mattress causes back pain is entirely dependent on your sleeping position and body type. If you do have a mattress that fits your individual needs, chances are it's not going to cause back pain. Stomach sleepers often need a firmer mattress to lift up the hips and keep the spine in neutral alignment. Side sleepers and lightweight sleepers, however, will likely find that a firm mattress doesn't provide enough cushion to sink into. This can result in back pain overtime.
What firmness is best for back pain?
In general, medical professionals recommend medium-firm mattresses (about a 6.5/10 on the industry firmness scale) for back pain. These mattresses often have a nice balance of comfort and support and fit a wider variety of sleepers. However, it's important that you utilize sleep trials offered by companies or even consult a medical professional so you can make the best decision for your own needs.
Can a mattress be too firm?
Just as a mattress can be too soft, a mattress can also be too firm. One of the best indicators of excessive firmness is a tense feeling in your body, or more obviously pain. That's why it's so important to consider your sleeping position and body type when selecting a mattress. For example, it's very likely a mattress made for stomach sleepers is going to be way too firm for a side sleeper!
What mattress firmness is best for stomach sleepers?
We would recommend a 7/10 or 8/10 on the firmness scale for most stomach sleepers. It's crucial these sleepers have enough support to lift the hips into alignment, and enough cushioning to prevent too much pressure build-up.
