KellJust like the tale of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, finding that ‘sweet spot’ when it comes to your sleeping habits can be a matter of trial and error. Do you like to snuggle into something that is soft and yielding, or do you get your best shut-eye when you feel supported by a firmer surface? Perhaps like Goldilocks, your preference is somewhere in between?
At Beds R Us we are here to help you get it just right. Our beds are for sale online for those who research or who prefer convenience, but most of our customers like trying our mattress options in a Beds R Us store. We believe the best way to choose a new mattress is to actually experience how it feels. We will take you on a journey of discovery at any one of our 70-plus locations around Australia. With local know-how and Sleepyhead/SleepMaker’s advanced technology, you will be sure to find a mattress that makes dreams come true.
Our wide range of mattresses, with comfort and support layer technology, allows you to choose your mattress according to your unique sleeping preferences. That might mean firm, plush or an in-between feel. Our customised approach means that you never need to compromise on getting a night of deep and restorative sleep.
Below the Surface
The differences between firm vs soft mattress options go below the surface. There are some important factors to consider when deciding what might be right for you:
-
Your body type
-
Your sleep position
-
Your body temperature
Your Body Type
At Beds R Us we totally get that everyone is an individual! With this in mind, the question of deciding whether to buy a firm or soft mattress shows itself to be a bit oversimplified when considering personal preferences.
We all have varying body weights and builds, and when we lie down we all feel pressure points differently.
That’s why we make it easy at Beds R Us, by providing personalised recommendations and advice in-store. One of our friendly team members will help match your body type and other personal factors to a selection of products that are likely to provide you with the best mattress options for comfort and support. From here, you can narrow down the field of options based on your preferences such as sleep position, budget or other needs.
Your Sleeping Position
When deciding what bed feels best, you need to consider not just your physical traits but your personal preferences. You may find yourself to be a back sleeper, stomach sleeper, or side sleeper (or even a combination of these).
Maybe you curl up in the fetal position, use a body pillow or other pillows for support, or perhaps you sprawl out horizontally across the bed (much to your partner’s annoyance). Indeed, your sleeping partner’s preferences are very much a part of the equation in figuring out what will suit both of you best. That’s why it’s important to try before you buy.
How to Test Out a Mattress In-Store?
Firstly, take the time to figure out what style of sleeper you are and then apply this information practically. Lie down on a showroom mattress in your usual sleeping position. At Beds R Us we recommend spending 10 to 15 minutes on each mattress to gauge the right level of support and mattress firmness. Look for a bed that feels naturally comfortable. If you feel pressure on certain points of your body, then this is a strong indication that the bed may be too firm or not providing enough pressure relief. You want to find the right firmness level that feels natural and helps your spine stay in a neutral position.
Your Body Temperature
Your body temperature will greatly influence the level of comfort you experience in bed. Body temperature and sleep are very closely related, and extremes in hot and cold are likely to affect sleep health and sleep quality.
This is due to the fact that during the REM (rapid eye movement) part of sleep, the brain’s temperature-regulating process switches off and allows room temperature to guide the body.
If you usually feel hot at night, it is advisable to opt for a medium mattress, a firm mattress, or one with cooling technology included. Soft beds without the same level of cooling technology may cause your body to sink into the cushioning, and you may not experience a good amount of airflow. Air circulation is crucial in regulating your body temperature. Beds R Us’ range of cooling mattresses incorporates Fusiongel, Kulkote and Graphene components with highly effective heat-absorbing properties that leave you feeling fresh and comfortably cool all night long.
For some sleepers, especially those with lower back pain, a slightly firmer mattress can also assist with spinal alignment, extra support, and pain reduction while sleeping.
What Mattress Firmness Is ‘Just Right’ For You?
Choosing between a firm mattress vs soft mattress really comes down to your individual body type, sleep position, and personal comfort preference. Generally speaking, what works for one sleeper may feel completely different for another, which is why testing different mattress firmness levels is so important.
Whether you prefer firmer mattresses, a cushioning soft mattress, or something in between with a medium feel on the firmness scale, the right choice is the one that keeps your spine in a healthy position, reduces pressure points, and improves your overall sleep quality.
At Beds R Us, we believe finding the right mattress should feel simple, supportive, and tailored to you. Better sleep starts with the right foundation.
FIND YOUR LOCAL BEDS R US STORE OR SHOP ONLINE
For the right mattress and right advice, at the right price.
Soft vs Firm Mattress — FAQs
How do I know if my mattress is too soft or firm?
A simple way to assess this is to consider your sleep quality and how your body feels when you wake up. If you’re experiencing back pain, poor spinal alignment, or excessive sinking, your mattress may be too soft. On the other hand, if you’re waking up with pressure on your hips, shoulders, or feeling like you’re sleeping on a hard surface, your mattress may be too firm. Using a firmness scale can help you compare how your current mattress feels against different options to find the best mattress for your needs.
What is the difference between a firm mattress and a medium mattress?
A firm mattress provides stronger support with less sinkage, making it suitable for those who prefer a more solid feel or need extra spinal support. A medium mattress offers a balance of comfort and support, often recommended as a versatile option that suits a wide range of sleepers. The difference usually comes down to how the mattress distributes body weight and how the comfort layers respond when you lie down.
Is it better to sleep on a hard or soft mattress?
There’s no single answer to whether a soft or firm mattress is better, as it largely depends on your sleep preferences, body needs, and comfort. A good new bed should always provide enough support while still feeling comfortable for your specific sleep style.
Is a firm mattress better for back pain?
For many sleepers, a firm mattress is often considered a good option for back pain, as it helps maintain a more neutral spinal position while still offering cushioning. However, the best mattress for back pain depends on individual body weight, sleep position, and personal preference. Some people may need firmer support, while others benefit from slightly softer comfort layers that reduce pressure points while still supporting alignment.
What firmness level should I choose when buying a mattress?
Choosing the right firmness level depends on your body weight, sleep position, and comfort preference. Heavier sleepers often prefer firmer options for better support, while lighter individuals may feel more comfortable on softer surfaces. A medium mattress is often a popular middle ground, offering balanced comfort and support across most mattress types and sleep styles.
Is a memory foam mattress good for joint pain?
A memory foam mattress can be a great option for joint pain as it contours to your body shape, helping to reduce pressure on key areas like the hips and shoulders. Generally, memory foam mattresses are considered a softer type of mattress, although some medium mattresses are also available for those who need a bit more support.
