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Who wants to sleep on a firm mattress? If you’re someone with a bigger body, a stomach sleeper, or if you hate the comfy sink of your bed, a firmer mattress might be the best fit for you. Firm doesn’t necessarily mean “uncomfortable,” and sometimes the extra support provided by a firm bed can help you sleep more soundly.
Our testers have tried all of the best mattresses on the market — and over 330 total mattresses to be exact. Many of these mattresses claim to be firm, but we’ve done the work to give you our top picks in this category. Firmness can be pretty subjective, but we consider a bed from all angles, taking into account body type, sleeping position, and other personal preferences that factor into who a bed is best for.
Per our testing methodology, we score beds from 1–5 in a number of performance categories. For firm beds, the following criteria are most pertinent:
- Support: Support is important in all mattresses, but firm beds tend to be champions at this, as they prioritize firm foundations that yield a more lifted sleep surface.
- Pressure relief: You may see a lot of beds with low pressure relief scores, but don’t fret. Firm beds tend to keep you “on top” of the mattress, rather than allowing you to sink into it. This may not work for folks who need to relieve pressure on parts of their body that dig into the mattress. (But you should see there are multiple beds on this list that can provide this feeling while still remaining firm.)
- Response: Response is another word for bounce. Most firm beds will also have a higher bounce score, as a doughy feel that restricts movement is often associated with softer mattresses.
- Materials: What a bed’s made of will contribute to its overall feel, but also its durability. We take a look at a mattress layer by layer to assess the quality of the bed itself, and gauge which materials are doing most of the heavy lifting.
To create this guide to the best firm mattress, we consulted with Chaunie Brusie, RN, BSN, to review the content from a medical perspective, and Dr. Raj Dasgupta, who is board-certified in sleep medicine, to help us evaluate what to look for in a firm mattress. Let’s dive in.
Disclaimer: Please note that the content in this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or serve as a substitute for seeing a medical professional regarding any sleep problems you may have. Please see your doctor regarding any urgent medical issues.
Our Top Pick For Firm Mattresses
The Plank Firm Luxe mattress landed at the top of our list because of its versatility. This flippable mattress features two comfortable firmness levels, and its high-density foam provides tons of incredible support.
10 Best Firm Mattresses of 2025
- Plank Firm Luxe – Best Overall Firm Mattress
- Helix Dawn – Best Firm Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- DreamCloud – Best Hybrid Mattress
- WinkBed – Best Firm Mattress for Back Pain
- Saatva – Best Innerspring Firm Mattress
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Firm Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Nolah Evolution – Best Firm Pressure-Relieving Mattress
- Bear Original – Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress
- Titan Plus – Best Extra-Firm Mattress
- Birch Natural – Best Organic Firm Mattress
What I Looked For in the Best Firm Mattresses
We’ve tested dozens of different mattresses, many of them claiming to be firm, but how many really delivered on that promise? Here’s what we considered to help finalize our list:
- Firmness score: This is a score from 1 to 10 letting the shopper know how soft or firm a bed is. Our firmness scale is based on the objective rankings of multiple Certified Sleep Science Coaches here at Sleepopolis.
- Responsiveness: We test responsiveness by seeing how easy it is to move around on the bed’s surface, then give it a score out of 5.
- Support: We’ll rate a mattress based on how secure and comfortable we feel, including whether or not our spine is aligned.
This list has a bunch of mattresses with varying construction and performance features, but all of them share one thing: They all have models that earn at least a 7 out of 10 on our firmness scale. We consider anything over 6.5, the industry standard for medium-firm, a firm mattress.
Note: If a mattress comes in multiple firmness options, we mostly test the mid-range model (e.g., Medium). We may recommend choosing a firmer option of the same mattress based on our findings for a true firm experience, though many options should be firm enough at this mid-range level.
Compare the Best Firm Mattresses
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| Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Luxe Mattress | Helix Dawn Mattress | DreamCloud Original Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Saatva Classic | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Bear Original Mattress | Titan Plus | Birch Natural Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Firm: 7/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7/10 | Firm: 7.5/10 | Firm: 7/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Best For |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Couples
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Back Sleepers,
Stomach Sleepers, Couples |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors
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Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors
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Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Couples,
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Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors,
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain,
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hip Pain, Seniors
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors,
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Best Firm Mattress 2025 Video Review
Plank Firm Luxe – Best Overall
The Plank Firm Luxe is not only unique in that it’s one of the firmest mattresses out there, but it’s also flippable. Each side boasts sturdy support, reinforced with a core layer of pocketed coils. Additionally, the option to test out which side is best for you should largely appeal to back, stomach, combination sleepers, and those with larger body types. It’s also the luxury upgrade version of the standard Plank Firm, so it has some added cushioning foam and a slightly plusher feel, as well as the springs (the standard Plank Firm is all-foam). For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“The Plank Firm Luxe has a very similar feel to the Plank Firm mattress, except the firm side on the Plank Firm Luxe is the softest, plushest side either bed offers. I like that it has a little more versatility.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester
The Plank Firm Luxe, created by Brooklyn Bedding, lives up to its name and its number-one spot on this list. “Plank” refers to its super-firm feel (like a plank of wood), while “Luxe” refers to its luxurious hybrid construction. This bed combines two firm mattresses in one: an extra-firm side and a more “traditional” firm side. Mattress expert and tester Bridget Chapman really liked how “this makes it feel like you’re getting two beds for the price of one.” It also earned a 4 or higher in nearly every performance category.
We rated the firm side of the Plank Firm Luxe a 6.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, and the extra-firm side ranked an 8 out of 10. The firm side definitely has a more medium-firm feel, so true firm fans might want to stick to the extra-firm side. (Just be warned that you might really feel like you’re lying on a wooden plank.)
Lying down on this bed, support was the first thing we noticed. The combination of high-density foam and coils helps to keep proper spinal alignment, reducing the risk of aches and pains from improper posture. For this reason, we gave the bed a 4.5 out of 5 in support. Bridget also thought “the firm side is a great choice for anyone who loves a firm, cushiony feel.”
And if you find yourself needing a break from the bed’s unyielding surface, you can always switch over to the less firm side to experience a bit more pressure relief. It also earned a 4 out of 5 in motion isolation, alongside 4.5 out of 5 in both cooling and edge support, all of which I think should make it a great mattress for couples.
If you’re looking for a cheaper but similarly flippable firm option, you should consider Brooklyn Bedding’s original Plank Firm model. Otherwise, check out our full Plank Firm Luxe review.
Helix Dawn – Best Firm Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
The Helix Dawn is one of the firmest mattresses offered by the company. Its construction provides good comfort for heavy people and stomach sleepers, both of whom need extra support to keep from sinking uncomfortably below the mattress surface. Like the other Helix mattresses, it can be upgraded to the Luxe version if you’re willing to pay a little extra for luxury features. To learn more, check out our video on Helix mattresses.
What our tester says:
“I really appreciate how supportive these mattresses are. Stomach sleepers, back sleepers, and heavy people (those over 250 pounds) could all benefit from the firm feel of this bed. No matter which model you choose, the Helix Dawn really delivers on lumbar support.” Logan Block, former Sleepopolis content director and mattress tester
Stomach sleepers often prefer firmer beds, as they need more support to keep their hips from sinking in. How lucky, then, that Helix has a firm mattress designed for back and stomach sleepers: the Helix Dawn.
Don’t believe me? Mattress tester Logan Block noted that “stomach sleepers could really benefit from the firm feel of this bed” because it “really delivers on lumbar support.” It also comes in an upgraded version, the Dawn Luxe, which I also recommend for this group.
The Dawn Luxe came in at a 7 on our firmness scale, while the standard Dawn is a little bit firmer, coming in at a 7.5. Both of these models are firmer than the industry average, good news for firm mattress fans. This mattress has an “on top” feeling that’s only bolstered by its bounciness, for which we gave it a perfect response score.
The mattress itself isn’t the only thing that’s supportive — the edges hold up pretty well when bearing weight, so you should be able to spread out to your heart’s content on the bed’s surface. It’s important to note that, as expected of a firmer mattress, we only gave this mattress a 3.5 out of 5 for pressure relief, though this may not be a concern for most stomach sleepers.
Some restless couples, however, may want to look at a different mattress, as the motion isolation score was also a sub-par 3.5 out of 5. These folks might feel their partner’s movements from the other side of the bed.
For a cheaper bed for stomach sleepers, you might want to consider the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid, also on this list. If you’re already sold, consider reading our full Helix Dawn mattress review to find out more about this bed. You might also want to check out other mattresses for stomach sleepers.
DreamCloud – Best Hybrid Mattress
With soft foam and a sturdy layer of innerspring coils, the DreamCloud strikes a balance between comfort and support — a little bit of contouring up top and on-top-of-the-bed feel that comes from the bottom. It’s a fairly firm mattress that we think is most comfortable for back sleepers. It also has some luxury touches such as a cashmere-blend cover that are reminiscent of a high-end hotel. Learn more in our DreamCloud video review.
What our tester says:
“I really like how luxurious this mattress feels and how it could work for a variety of sleepers. Along with that, I found that the breathable cashmere cover helps the DreamCloud sleep cool throughout the night. Thanks to its medium-firm to firm support, I think the DreamCloud is a durable mattress. It balances support with plenty of pressure relief for back sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, former Sleepopolis senior product editor
Hybrid beds are made with coils and foam, and the best hybrid mattress provides an ideal mix of cushioning and support. For firm mattress fans, this combination can yield a more balanced feel. The DreamCloud itself is one such bed, thanks to its individually wrapped coils and comfort layers. As mattress tester Bridget Chapman put it, “I really like how luxurious this mattress feels and how it could work for a variety of sleepers.”
When we laid down on the DreamCloud to test it, we found it to be a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale. It has much more of a responsive, on-top-of-the-bed feel than a plush, slow-sinking feel, despite the presence of memory foam up top. This also gives the bed more pressure-relieving ability than other firm mattresses, hence why we recommend it for folks who sleep on their back.
I find the DreamCloud is a relatively well-rounded mattress. We gave it 4.5 out of 5 in support, pressure relief, and edge support, while responsiveness got a perfect score. One place where it’s lacking is motion isolation, coming in at only 3.5. Our testers found there was some noticeable motion transfer, enough to deter some especially light sleepers looking for a great mattress for couples.
Looking for better motion isolation? You might like the Nolah Evolution, which is our pick for a pressure-relieving firm mattress. You can also head over to our full DreamCloud mattress review to find out more about this bed.
WinkBed – Best Firm Mattress for Back Pain
The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress. It has a similarly supportive and sturdy feel to a traditional innerspring mattress, but upgrades like a Euro top and cooling Tencel cover give it a touch of modern luxury. Available in three firmness levels, there is a WinkBed for just about every sleeper. And a responsive and bouncy feel makes it a great pick for combination sleepers. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“If you like the feel of a traditional innerspring mattress, the WinkBed could work for you. Since this bed offered great pressure relief around my lumbar region, I’d also recommend it to folks who suffer from lower back pain.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Did you know that sometimes a firmer mattress is actually better for back pain? If you’re looking for a firm mattress that should help address an achy back, let me introduce you to the WinkBed. This hybrid mattress has zoned support coils that help lift the spine into proper alignment and prevent unnatural back wrenching, earning it a 4.5 out of 5 in the support category. When I tested out the WinkBed, I noticed the quilted pillow top contouring to my body, so it should also comfortably fill in the hollow near your lower back, providing back support.
This bed is offered in three different firmness levels: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. (There’s also a version specifically created for bigger bodies, the WinkBed Plus.) The Luxury Firm model came in at a 7 on our firmness scale. If you want something extra-firm, mattress tester and expert Bridget Chapman’s recommendation is that “the Firmer model should be a great match for those after a firm feel.“
WinkBeds’ industrial-strength coils certainly bring the support, but I found it to be a fairly pressure-relieving mattress too, an added bonus for back pain. We gave it a favorable 4.5 out of 5 in this category. Bridget also championed the bed’s durability: “It feels very supportive and well made.” It’s a good option for couples, too, as we gave it high scores for motion absorption and edge support. One drawback of note is the price, with a queen size coming in at nearly $1,700 after sales. I wouldn’t consider this a budget-friendly mattress.
If you’re over 230 pounds, you might want to check out the WinkBed Plus. Otherwise, consider reading our full WinkBed review or checking out the other best mattresses for back pain.
Saatva – Best Firm Innerspring Mattress
The Saatva’s coil-on-coil construction provides a classic innerspring feel. It’s a good option for combo sleepers, who will want to feel free to switch positions and avoid feeling “stuck” in the mattress. It comes in three firmness levels, so you should be able to find one that suits your needs. The white glove delivery Saatva provides is an added perk and will save you the headache of getting rid of your old mattress (they take it away for free!). For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“I think the Saatva is a great option for back sleepers, as the Luxury Firm model provides enough cushioning for their lumbar region, but also lots of support to keep their spine in a neutral alignment.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
I sleep on a Saatva myself (for half a year now) and absolutely adore it. The innerspring feel gives it plenty of bounce, earning it a perfect 5-out-of-5 score in this category, which I appreciate as a combination sleeper who switches between my stomach and side. If you’re looking for a firm mattress with a luxury feel and perks, the Saatva Classic checks all the boxes and more.
Even the Luxury Firm (medium-firm model) is on the firmer side of medium-firm at a 6.5 on our scale, but I found myself able to comfortably sink a little on my side. But for purposes of this roundup, I might recommend the Firm model to true firm fans, which should come in at a 7 or higher. Tester Nichole Mondshein also recommends this bed for folks needing back support: “The support of the coils should keep their back in a healthy neutral position, which can help combat back pain.”
We nearly gave the Saatva all fives in our performance category scores. I’ve yet to find a mattress that has better edge support. It also gets a gold star for its policies. I, for one, appreciated the free white glove delivery when I moved, and I still have the opportunity to make use of their generous 365-night trial — though I don’t plan on it.
The one place where Saatva falters is its motion isolation, and it’s close to unbearable if you’re an extremely light sleeper like myself. For reference, we gave it a 3 out of 5 during testing. I felt everything, from the littlest twitch to getting in and out of bed. However, I can overlook it for all the other benefits, and perhaps most couples can too, if they’re sounder sleepers than I am.
If you’re looking for a comparable mattress with better motion isolation, you might want to consider the WinkBed. Otherwise, read our full Saatva Classic review to find out more. You can also check out our other picks for the best innerspring mattresses.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Firm Mattress for Back Sleepers
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress combines a foam comfort layer and sturdy coils. This combination of materials makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. It comes in three firmness levels, and we recommend the Medium model for most back sleepers. It’s a great choice for shoppers who are looking for a new mattress on a budget. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“Given that the Signature Hybrid has some excellent bounce, I’d highly recommend this mattress for combination sleepers who often change positions multiple times throughout the night. I also think the Signature Hybrid could be a great fit for couples. You shouldn’t be overly disturbed by a restless partner on this bed, and it has nice, firm edge support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Sometimes I say back sleepers are the easiest to please, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have to be picky when it comes to a firmer mattress. Thankfully, Brooklyn Bedding’s Signature Hybrid comes in a Firm model, though we loved the Medium for back sleepers. It has just the right mix of pressure relief and support (earning 4.5 out of 5 for both scores) that should keep these sleepers aligned and comfortable.
After seeing some great results on the pressure map test, mattress tester and expert Nichole Mondshein proclaimed “I think the Signature Hybrid could be a nice choice for back sleepers with back pain.”
The Medium model came in at a 6.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale. This is the industry standard for medium firm — a firmness level that’s usually good for folks who sleep on their back, but perhaps not for firm mattress fans.
If you choose the Firm model, you’re likely to experience it as a 7 or 7.5 on the firmness scale. If you also suffer with back pain, the Signature Hybrid’s firm feel might offer some respite, too. Nichole noted that “this mattress should promote a healthy sleep posture, which is key to avoiding pain and soreness.”
Once again, we have another well-rounded mattress gracing our list. The Signature Hybrid gets near-perfect scores in support, pressure relief, edge support, and cooling. It’s definitely got the bounce to make moving around easier for combination sleepers or during sex. However, some couples might notice a bit more motion transfer on this hybrid’s springy surface based on the sub-par readings from Nichole’s seismometer test.
Looking for a Brooklyn Bedding mattress better built for couples? You might want to check out the Aurora Luxe mattress, which also comes in a Firm option.
Nolah Evolution – Best Firm Mattress for Pressure Relief
The Nolah Evolution’s hybrid construction offers the cushioning of memory foam with the responsiveness of coils. The Luxury Firm model is a good option for side and back sleepers due to its medium-firm feel, though there are Plush and Firm versions as well. Those who share a bed may also appreciate its low motion transfer, so you won’t be disturbed by a partner’s movements and its solid edge support to allow you to maximize surface area. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I laid down to rest on this mattress on my back — my primary sleep position. I felt comfortable, but also appreciated the cozy, plush top of the bed. After some time lying on my back, I switched over to my side. I didn’t find this position quite as comfortable, as I did feel some slight pressure buildup in my shoulder.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Picking a firm mattress doesn’t mean sacrificing pressure relief. Maybe you’re a back or side sleeper who likes or needs a firm mattress, as both of these positions require some relief on the hips, shoulders, or lower back. The Nolah Evolution is here to offer you the best of both worlds. This mattress scored a 5 out of 5 in our pressure relief category.
Staff writer and certified sleep coach Sosha Lewis sleeps on a Nolah Evolution and corroborated this: “My personal favorite aspect is the pressure relief! As a middle-aged CrossFitter with a janky hip, this bed eases so much of my pain.” It also just so happens to come in a Firm model.
The Luxury Firm model we tested came in at a 6.5 on our firmness scale, making it the industry standard for medium-firm. The AirFoam accounts for its slightly softer feel and pressure relief, and you can always opt for the Firm model, which will likely be closer to a 7 or 7.5.
The Nolah Evolution scored a 4 or higher in every category. Based on this, and the fact that it comes in three firmnesses, I’d wager you’d be hard-pressed to find someone for whom this bed doesn’t work. Perhaps the only drawback is that as a luxury mattress, the Evolution costs a pretty penny, but we believe it’s worth it.
Looking to save rather than splurge? You might want to look at the Helix Dawn, our firm mattress pick for stomach sleepers. Feel free to read our full Nolah Evolution review for more information. If you want to look at more pressure-relieving mattresses, check out the best mattresses for side sleepers.
Bear Original – Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress
Even though it’s made entirely of foam, the Bear has a firm, supportive feel that should be sturdy enough for back sleepers and stomach sleepers alike. Additionally, combination sleepers should be able to easily move around on its surface. You can also pay extra for a Celliant cover that may help with cooling and muscle recovery. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“I found the double poly foam construction produced a firm, supportive feel. Though you’re likely to sink into its top layer of memory foam, this sinkage is somewhat curbed by the taut poly foam transition layer. This means most folks are going to be positioned more “on top” of the structure than “in” it.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester
Most people associate the best memory foam mattresses with cushy softness, but firm mattress fans might be surprised to learn that there are plenty of firm foam beds out there. The Bear Original is one such bed — dare we call it a rare gem? It came in at about a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, which is much firmer than many other all-foam beds on the market. Tester Nichole Mondshein cited that the “double poly foam construction gives it a firm, supportive feel” after trying it out.
Where the Bear Original truly stands out from the competition is the optional Celliant cover. For an additional $130, you can reap the purported benefits of this performance textile. Some clinical trials show that this material absorbs the energy in your body and then redirects it back to you to assist with blood flow and recovery, also helping to reduce excess body heat.
While Sleepopolis has not personally tested this, we can attest to the cooling technology present in Celliant, which helps to keep sleepers cooler throughout the night. This is a rarity in memory foam mattresses, which are usually known for trapping heat, and therefore not good mattresses for hot sleepers. We gave the Bear mattress a solid 4 out of 5 score for its cooling cover.
As a foam mattress, it’s worth noting that this bed might not give you the same support as a hybrid mattress. However, Nichole still felt lifted on the surface, so it’s by no means unsupportive. The edges also didn’t hold up under weight, garnering a low score at 3 out of 5, which is a common complaint with foam mattresses. But if you sleep with a partner, you should rest easy without feeling their movements from the other side of the mattress, thanks to the Bear’s 4 out of 5 motion isolation score.
Feel free to find out more about this mattress in our full Bear mattress review. Not a fan of foam? Bear also offers a hybrid mattress, the Bear Elite, which comes in a Firm model.
Titan Plus – Best Extra-Firm Mattress
The Titan Plus mattress is a durable mattress made with heavy sleepers in mind. It’s firm and features heavy-duty coils and Titanflex foam that makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. We think that heavy back sleepers and stomach sleepers should be especially comfortable. For more information on the Titan Plus, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I think the Titan Plus lives up to its name as a good mattress for heavier sleepers. It will offer them the deep compression support and durability they need.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
The Titan Plus has a majestic name that echoes its purpose: to supply industrial support for folks who need it, like those with bigger bodies or those who weigh over 230 pounds. Most of these folks need a firmer mattress anyway; their weight tends to have them sinking further into softer beds, leading to a misaligned spine or overall discomfort. Our tester Paulie, a powerlifter in this weight category, tested this mattress and shared his experience, helping us reach our 5-out-of-5 support score for this bed.
The Titan Plus ranked at a 7.5 on our firmness scale for Paulie, which means it will likely feel even firmer to anyone in the lightweight or average-weight category (probably closer to an 8). This is important to note if you sleep with a partner of a different size who may need something softer.
We think this bed should work for heavyweight sleepers in each sleeping position, including side sleepers looking for a firmer mattress. Mattress tester and expert Bridget Chapman proclaimed it should “offer the deep compression support and durability [heavyweight sleepers] need.”
We should point out that the Titan Plus didn’t absorb motion as nicely as we’d like, which could be an issue for any couples where one partner is woken up easily. That said, it scored above a 4 in every other performance category, so you can expect a supportive, responsive, and pressure-relieving mattress with strong edges that also keeps cool.
The Plank Firm is another superior choice for sleepers looking for an extra-firm bed. You can also read more about the Titan Plus in our dedicated review.
Birch Natural – Best Organic Firm Mattress
The Birch Natural mattress is an all-natural bed from Helix Sleep that’s comfortable, supportive, and eco-friendly. Its combination of natural Talalay latex and individually wrapped coils makes it easy to move around on. I think this bed is a great choice for shoppers who are looking for durable mattress with organic materials. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I’d say the Birch is a fantastic pick for sleepers with back pain (especially if they sleep on their backs or stomachs). While lying on it, I felt the Birch’s springs and bouncy latex kept my spine in a pleasantly lifted position.” – Madison Schaper, former Staff Writer
Environmentally conscious mattress shoppers may come across a lot of latex mattresses in their online search. Fortunately, latex can add to a bed’s firmness, while also providing a uniquely buoyant feel. The Birch Natural is one such latex hybrid. Its natural, high-quality components earned it a high 4.5 out of 5 for our materials score.
Mattress expert Madison Sharper summed up the Birch’s firmness quite nicely, saying that “you’ll definitely feel lifted ‘on top of’ this bed, rather than hugged or cradled by it. If you like a supportive feel, you should like the Birch.” This is thanks to the bed’s combination of organic wool and latex layers working alongside the bed’s coil unit.
The Birch Natural came in at a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale. That’s is a bit firmer than the industry standard for medium-firm (6.5 out of 10). This is best for back and stomach sleepers who need additional support to keep their spines in a healthy, neutral position at night. The Birch’s bounciness, rated at a 5 out of 5 on our responsiveness scale, should also work well for combination sleepers who switch between these two positions.
This mega-bounce, however, translates to some truly sub-par motion isolation, giving it the lowest such score on this list at 2.5 out of 5. We noticed some pretty high spikes on our seismometer test, even for smaller movements. It also didn’t wow us when it comes to edge support, so for these reasons, we wouldn’t recommend it for couples. On the other hand, I think that hot sleepers might reap the natural cooling benefits of the bed’s wool and latex layers.
Looking for a cheaper latex mattress? Check out Brooklyn Bedding’s EcoSleep mattress. You can also read our full Birch Natural review for more about this bed, or check out some other top organic mattresses.
Other Firm Mattresses We Researched
Still looking for more options? Here are some other firm mattresses we’ve reviewed that didn’t quite make the cut:
- Purple Mattress: This mattress has a 7 out of 10 firmness score from our testing lab, so it’s just a bit firmer than true medium-firm (6.5 out of 10) and should widely appeal to side and back sleepers who like a firmer feel. While it offers impressive results for light and average-weight sleepers, those falling on the heavier side likely won’t receive the same amount of support. Read our full Purple Mattress review for more details.
- Tuft & Needle Mattress: This bed also scored a 7 out of 10 firmness, and maintained what we call an “on top of” feel that should appeal to side sleepers, back sleepers, and combination sleepers. Still, it’s not supportive enough for heavy sleepers over 230 pounds, and not nearly firm enough for stomach sleepers over 130 pounds. Read our full Tuft & Needle mattress review for additional information.
- Tempur-Cloud Mattress: During testing, we rated this mattress a 7 out of 10 on our firmness scale, and found that its cloud-like memory foam feel and supportive base foam work together spectacularly for back and side sleeping. As an all-foam mattress primarily focused on delivering a trademark feel, though, we found it lacked the firmness and support necessary for stomach sleepers and heavy sleepers. Read our full Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud mattress review.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Firm Mattresses
A lot of things go into testing a mattress, and even more for deciding what products make the cut on our best-of list. For firm mattresses, we focused on three categories above all. Here’s some information on why we prioritized them and how we actually test them:
Firmness
At Sleepopolis, we measure mattress firmness using the mattress firmness scale. The scale ranges from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest mattress ever and 10 being the firmest mattress ever. The industry standard for medium firmness is a 6.5 out of 10. We typically see mattresses in this category, since this firmness level can appeal to a wide range of sleep positions and body types. Anything lower than 6.5, we consider soft, and anything higher than 6.5 is firm.
As for testing a bed’s firmness, our lead mattress reviewer will lie down on the bed and give it a numbered score on the firmness scale. They then have several colleagues do the same thing and come up with an average of everyone’s scores. That’s the final number you see for each mattress’s firmness.
Response
Firm beds usually have a lot of bounce, which we also refer to as response. This is because softer beds that contain cushy memory foam can “hug” you, making it difficult to move around. If you’re a combination sleeper, a responsive mattress can make it easier to change positions. It can also make it easier for couples to change positions during sex.
At Sleepopolis, we test responsiveness with a medicine ball and lacrosse ball to see how high each one bounces. We’ll also get on the bed ourselves and move around, sometimes jumping on it to gauge how responsive the surface is.
Support
Regardless of a mattress’s firmness, you’ll want to make sure it has enough support to keep your spine neutrally aligned. And by that, I mean that your hips and shoulders should evenly line up with each other, with no excessive sinkage that will throw off your posture. When your spine is misaligned, you might feel a lot of pain in your back or neck. At Sleepopolis, we test support by by simply clocking how we feel lying down on the bed. Sometimes we’ll have a friend observe to see if our spines are straight.
It’s also important to consider when a mattress might be too firm. Dr Raj Dasgupta, quadruple board-certified in sleep science, offers some insight on this conundrum: “A mattress might be too firm if you experience pressure points, lack of spinal alignment, restlessness, numbness, discomfort in certain sleeping positions, or limited sinkage.”
What to Look for in a Firm Mattress
Shopping for a mattress can be daunting. Thankfully, I’ve compiled some of the most important factors you may want to consider based on your personal preferences. No bed is one-size-fits-all, especially when it comes to a firm mattress.
Firmness Score
If you’re looking for a firm mattress, you should opt for a bed that reviewers classify between 7 and 10 on the mattress firmness scale. It’s rare to see any bed close to 9 or 10, as these beds would be ultra-firm. Our testers haven’t encountered any beds in this range (but never say never).
We should note that firmness — more so than any of our testing categories — is fairly subjective and varies from person to person, so we like to get a few different opinions on every mattress we test. Sometimes, your definition of “firm” might not align with the industry standard. There are plenty of factors that influence this, and I’ll dive into a few as you consider what you might want in a bed.
Firmness and Body Type
Your body weight will likely affect how you experience a bed’s firmness, so it’s important to take that into account when buying a firm mattress.
- Sleepers under 130 pounds are likely to find firm mattresses firmer than average-weight sleepers because they won’t sink as far through these beds’ top layers. In general, light stomach sleepers should fare well on almost any firm mattress because stomach sleepers don’t need much pressure relief. But lightweight back and side sleepers might want to stick to a more medium-firm mattress if they’re looking for a firm feel. These beds will likely feel firm to lighter folks, and will offer them a little more pressure relief.
- Average-weight sleepers (130 to 230 pounds) will likely experience mattresses as they’re advertised. That means a mattress marketed as firm will be just that. In general, a firm mattress is a great fit for any average sleepers who prefer this feel. But if you’re a side sleeper, we recommend opting for something a bit softer to ensure you get enough pressure relief at your hips and shoulders.
- Larger sleepers (over 230 pounds) are usually a good match for firm mattresses. These sleepers will likely find many mattresses a bit softer than the average sleeper, which means some firm mattresses may feel more medium firm — the most universally comfortable level of firmness. A mattress designed specifically for heavy people could also be a good fit.
Firmness and Sleeping Position
Certain sleeping positions may benefit from a firmer mattress, while others might prefer something softer to better suit their needs. As Dr. Raj Dasgupta put it, “It’s crucial to strike a balance that supports your sleeping position while providing comfort.”
- Back sleepers can benefit from firm support because it will help them keep their spine neutrally aligned (read: straight) overnight. This is especially important for back sleepers who struggle with any kind of back pain.
- Stomach sleepers need firm support because there are very few gaps between their bodies and their mattresses when they sleep. This means they really need a bed that won’t let their hips sink into the mattress. Sinking hips create an arch in the back that leads to pain over time.
- Side sleepers, however, should steer clear from most firm mattresses, as they may not provide enough sink or pressure relief on sensitive areas and pressure points, like the shoulder and hips. The only group that may find comfort on a firmer mattress are heavier side sleepers. Otherwise, these folks should look at medium-firm, medium, or even soft mattresses.
- Combination sleepers may like a firmer mattress as these beds tend to have a more “on top” feeling at the surface, making it easier to move around and switch positions.
Who Needs an Extra-Firm Mattress?
Although many people will find extra-firm mattresses uncomfortable, some sleepers will benefit from the top-of-the-line pushback that these mattresses provide. Heavyweight stomach sleepers often need an extra-firm mattress because it will keep their hips elevated. Similarly, an extra-firm mattress can help keep a stomach sleeper’s spine adequately aligned by preventing the midsection from dipping too far into the layers. This type of spinal alignment helps relieve pressure buildup and prevent potential pain.
Larger-bodied couples, in general, may also want to consider extra-firm mattresses. This kind of bed gives balanced support across the bed’s surface, allowing these partners to stretch out without worrying about rolling to the center of the bed.
Mattress Type
The type of mattress you buy can also have an impact on not just how firm it feels, but also your overall sleep experience. Here are the four main mattress types and how they’ll feel:
- Innerspring: These beds are made of steel coils, topped with thin layers of foam, and normally have a firm, bouncy feel. Coils are also great for airflow, so these beds sleep cooler. Take a look at our top picks for best innerspring mattresses.
- Foam: All-foam beds may not be as durable or supportive as other mattress types because they use foam rather than coil support cores. That being said, there are definitely a handful of firm foam beds out there.
- Hybrid: You truly get the best of both worlds with hybrid mattresses, which combine top comfort layers with innerspring support coils. They can vary widely in feel, but there are plenty of great options for sleepers looking for a firm bed. Look for hybrids with thinner comfort layers or those that advertise firmer feels.
- Latex: Not surprisingly, latex mattresses use latex foams in their construction. These materials are naturally durable, cooling, and bouncy, and can have very firm, supportive feels. If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, read through our best latex mattress page.
Pressure Relief
Pressure relief is another important consideration when choosing a mattress. Firm mattresses tend to offer a bit less pressure relief than softer beds, but that doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice appropriate relief. If pressure relief is a priority for you, we’d recommend looking for a firm bed that includes a few memory foam layers that offer some body contouring. This will provide a bit of pressure relief, but allow for a firm feel. There are plenty of mattresses we recommend on this list that do both.
So how do we measure how much pressure a mattress relieves, and where that pressure is to begin with? Here at Sleepopolis, we use a pressure map test. First, a specialized mat is stretched out along the length of the mattress. Our mattress tester then lies down on the mat in different sleeping positions (usually back, side, and stomach) so it can track their movements and record the force being exerted on their body.
At the end of the test, the device creates a “map” that uses thermal imaging to show how much pressure our tester felt in each position (with blue and green signaling low pressure, and yellow and red signaling high pressure).
So if you’re looking for a mattress that can help with your joint pain, no matter your sleeping position, don’t rule out firm mattresses just yet. But if you’re steering towards soft beds for their pressure relief, be aware that a too-soft mattress can have adverse effects. Dr. Raj Dasgupta warns that “[a]n overly soft mattress may lead to poor spinal alignment and lack of support, contributing to discomfort in your back.”
Motion Transfer
Motion transfer is a measure of the amount of motion that travels from one side of the mattress to the other. Most sleepers who share a bed with a partner or pet prefer a bed with low motion transfer, or good motion isolation. As Dr. Raj puts it, “A mattress with good motion isolation offers undisturbed sleep, comfort for couples, personalized support, pressure relief, versatility, a quiet sleep environment, longevity and minimized partner disturbance. It indicates material quality, construction and overall comfort.”
Firm mattresses usually don’t isolate motion as well as softer beds, but you can still find a firm mattress with decent motion isolation. Hybrid mattresses with memory foam top layers, or firm all-foam mattresses are good options for sleepers looking for a bed that isolates motion well.
We measure motion transfer using a few different tests. First, we just go off of the feel. Our tester lies down with a colleague and they go through various movements (rolling around, getting in and out of bed, etc.). They then record how much of each other’s movement they can feel. After that, the tester fills a glass with wine or water, places it on the bed next to them, and observes how much the liquid moves around. The more movement, the higher the motion transfer.
Finally, there’s the seismometer test. This is where our tester drops a steel ball onto the mattress’s surface from three different heights and measures the vibrations with a seismometer, which records motion as peaks and valleys.
Price
The last factor you’ll want to consider when buying a new firm mattress is price. A bed’s cost will vary depending on the quality of the materials it’s made with. Generally, you can find certain foam and hybrid mattresses at budget prices, while many latex and innerspring mattresses can be pricier.
A new mattress is a big investment, but you can score good deals by shopping online, shopping during sales, and using our mattress coupons. If you don’t want to make a huge purchase but need to get a firmer bed, the answer might lie in a mattress topper. A firm mattress topper can change the feel of the bed’s surface without the need for a whole new mattress, so long as the bed beneath it is in good condition.
Company Policies
Shipping, sleep trials, and warranties all come with the purchase of a new mattress, and you might overlook them in your haste, but they can be beneficial in narrowing down your search.
Most companies will offer free shipping throughout the contiguous United States, with added fees for Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada. This can be a boon when you’re spending hundreds of dollars on a new mattress.
The average length of a sleep trial is about 100 nights. During this trial period, you are usually able to return the mattress (often after at least 30 days of trying it out) for a full refund. Some companies will offer longer trials, even up to a full year. After the trial period, you’ll be subject to the mattress’ warranty if you want to receive any money back.
Warranties cover issues like defects or things outside normal wear-and-tear. They’re also a good way of judging how long a mattress will last. Most beds have a lifespan of 10 years, so most companies offer a 10-year warranty. Some might be longer, like 15 or 20 years, and other companies even offer lifetime warranties.
Be sure to read the fine print to know how much money you’ll receive, and also how to best take care of your mattress without voiding the warranty. (For example, you might consider using a mattress protector to protect the bed itself. Or make sure the bed is on the correct type of bed frame or whether it needs a box spring.)
FAQs
How do I shop for a firm mattress online?
When shopping for a firm mattress that you won’t try out in stores, we recommend reading reviews and opting for a bed reviewers rank between a 7 and a 10 on the mattress firmness scale. You can check out our How to Choose a Mattress buying guide for more tips.
Which mattress types are most firm?
Although it’s possible for any type of mattress to be firm, innerspring mattresses tend to be the most consistently firm. Because an innerspring’s construction is made up mostly of coils with very little foam, they’re usually not very cushioning or contouring.
Is a firm mattress better for your back?
It depends on how you sleep, but firm mattresses are generally better for your back. They help distribute your weight evenly, which will help you keep the curves of your spine in a neutral position and reduce your chance of back pain.
What firmness is better for back pain?
While there’s evidence to suggest that a firm mattress (a 7 or higher on our firmness scale) can help reduce back pain, it also comes down to your sleeping position. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Back sleepers with back pain – medium firm to firm (6.5–7 on our scale)
- Side sleepers with back pain – soft to medium soft (5–6 on our scale)
- Stomach sleepers with back pain – firm to ultra firm (7–8 on our scale)
- Combination sleepers with back pain – medium firm (6.5 on our scale)
What is the most common mattress firmness?
We typically see mattresses fall into the medium-firm category, which is a 6.5 on our scale, since this firmness level can appeal to a wide range of sleep positions and body types.
Livvi DiCicco
Staff Writer
About Author
Livvi DiCicco is a Staff Writer and Certified Sleep Science Coach. She has been writing, editing, and researching sleep-based content for over a year. After graduating from the University of Iowa with a degree in English & Creative Writing, she decided to work in the digital marketing field, continuing her creative works on the side. Her other interests (besides napping and writing) include digital art, history, and boba tea.
Combination Sleeper
