Are you one of those people who believe that a cloud-like, super-soft bed is the key to a good night's sleep? Well, you might want to consider it again! While the idea of sinking into a plush bed may seem enticing, there's a whole world of benefits waiting for you with a firm mattress.
If you've never considered sleeping on a firmer bed, you're in for a surprise. It is supportive, posture aligning and makes the best orthopedic mattress as well. Apart from that it has plenty of benefits that can truly transform your sleep quality and overall well-being.
But what is a firm mattress? Is it nearly as hard as stone, or not so much?
Many people in India still believe that firmer mattresses mean an almost stony feel with no give. But that is not quite right. There are many ranges and options, which include: medium firm, firm, and extra firm. And according to your preference, you can choose whichever feels right to you.
To begin with, firm mattresses provide robust and unyielding resting surfaces. When opposed to softer ones, it often provides less cushioning and conforms less to the body. These mattresses are meant to provide strong back and spine support, making them a popular choice for persons who want a stiffer resting surface or those who suffer from back problems.
Difference Between Soft And Firm Mattresses
To gain a better understanding let’s compare them to their polar opposites, soft mattresses and see the differences.
Soft Mattress
Soft mattresses provide a velvety, cushioned feel that allows you to sink into the bed. They provide great pressure relief, which may be beneficial for anyone suffering from joint pain or pressure points. It hugs the curves of your body, providing a "hugging" sensation. Soft mattresses are frequently good at isolating motion, so you will be less likely to be bothered by your partner's movements.
Firm Mattress
It offers a sturdy and supportive surface, maintaining a flatter profile with less sinkage. They help maintain proper spinal alignment, which can be beneficial for those with back pain. These mattresses tend to sleep cooler because there's less sinkage, allowing for better airflow. They often have a longer lifespan due to their sturdy construction. However, need to make sure you are choosing the right firmness. Many people make mistakes and end up with either a soft mattress or an extra hard one. Especially while buying a mattress online.
Related Article: Firm or Soft Mattress : Which Is Better For You
Benefits of Having Firmer Mattresses
1. It provides superior spinal support
One of the most significant benefits of sleeping on a firmer mattress is the superb spine support it gives. Which aids in the alignment of your spine as you sleep. The cervical (neck), thoracic (upper back), and lumbar (lower back) sections of your spine have a natural curvature. The firm sleep surface supports these natural contours by offering an even and continuous surface. It keeps your back in normal alignment, lowering your chances of waking up with back pain.
2. It eases pressure points
It uniformly distributes your body weight, relieving pressure on your hips and shoulders and reducing the possibility of pressure points forming along your spine. Pressure points arise when your body sinks too deeply into a bed surface, causing some parts to bear extra weight, such as the shoulders and hips. This might cause discomfort and even agony over time. The mattress's exceptional spinal support effectively distributes your body weight, lowering the possibility of pressure spots. This means you can say goodbye to those annoying pressure points that cause discomfort.
3. Help reduce chronic back pain
Offering superior support to the natural curvature of the spine, it aids in the maintenance of healthy spinal alignment while sleeping. This can help to relieve back pain and tension. This is especially good for people who are on the heavier side. Firmer beds are more comfortable for heavier people because they provide appropriate support and avoid excessive sinking.
4. Enhance your body and spinal posture
Sleeping on a firmer bed that provides excellent spinal support on a regular basis can help with long-term spinal health. It lowers the chances of having chronic back problems, postural disorders, and spinal misalignments, all of which can lead to more significant health issues. A firmer bed promotes proper posture during sleep. It keeps your body from sinking into uncomfortable positions, which can contribute to long-term posture problems.
5. Offers long-lasting durability
It can maintain its structure and shape since it has less give and sinking. This, in addition to improving support, serves to prolong wear and tear, hence extending the mattress’ longevity. You'll enjoy a comfortable and supportive sleep for years to come.
6. It doesn’t sag prematurely or early
Firm mattresses are less prone to sagging or developing indentations over time. When a mattress sags, it can no longer provide the necessary support for your spine. But a firm mattress’s robust nature ensures that it maintains its integrity and continues to support your back effectively.
7. Reduce allergen accumulation
Firm mattresses typically have closed-cell construction and, hence have fewer nooks and crannies for dust mites and allergens to hide. This can be a game-changer for allergy sufferers.
8. Help reduce toss and turn
By preventing sinking, a firm surface allows you to move freely on the bed surface. This helps to keep you from tossing and turning during the night. When sleeping on a soft bed, you may experience sinking and difficulty switching positions, as well as pressure points and soreness. Firm mattresses, on the other hand, allow you to sleep on top of the bed rather than sinking into it.
9. Offer less disturbances
If you share your bed, firmer mattresses can help reduce motion transfer by reducing tossing and turning. You won't be disturbed by your partner's movements, ensuring a more restful night's sleep. However, it is also important to understand that it depends on what type of foam and innerspring are used to make it. For example, pocket spring mattresses will offer better motion prevention than Bonnell spring mattresses.
10. Easier to Get In and Out
Firm mattresses are firm from the edges to the core, as opposed to soft beds, which sink in. This makes getting into and out of bed much easier. It provides a stable surface that makes mobility easy, especially for the elderly.
Who Should Sleep on Firm Mattresses?
It is typically recommended for people who:
Have Back Pain: A firm bed can give superior support and aid in the maintenance of proper spinal alignment, which helps ease back discomfort for many people.
Prefer Stomach Sleeping: If you predominantly sleep on your stomach, it can help prevent your lower back from sinking too deeply into the bed, reducing strain on your spine.
Require More Support: People who are heavier or have a higher body mass index (BMI) may find that a firmer bed offers the necessary support to prevent sagging and maintain comfort.
Suffer from Hip or Joint Pain: It can distribute weight more evenly, which can be beneficial for individuals with hip or joint pain.
Longevity issues: Many people choose to change their mattresses in a short period. If, on the other hand, you want your mattress to endure longer, a firm one is a better option. It often has a longer lifespan since they are less prone to sagging.
Who should avoid it:
A firmer mattress may not be suitable for everyone, and certain individuals might want to avoid sleeping on it:
Side Sleepers: If you are a side sleeper, it may not be the greatest solution for you because it does not provide adequate contouring or pressure relief for people who sleep on their sides. Softer mattresses are more comfortable for side sleepers since they can fit the body's natural curves.
Lightweight Individuals: Those with a lower body weight may find that a firmer mattress may feel too hard, leading to discomfort and pressure points. So, if you have a lower body weight instead choose a medium-firm mattress. It conforms better to lighter body shapes while providing the required support.
Arthritis or Joint Issues: If you have arthritis or other joint issues, firm mattresses may exacerbate discomfort and pain. As a result, you should avoid it and instead choose a medium-feel mattress that can relieve strain on sensitive joints while offering adequate support.
Preference for Plush Comfort: Some individuals simply prefer a more cushioned and plush sleeping surface. If you enjoy the feeling of sinking into your bed, a firm mattress may not meet your comfort preferences.
Conclusion:
So, there you have it—10 fantastic reasons to consider sleeping on a firm mattress. The benefits extend far beyond just a good night's sleep; they can positively impact your health and well-being in the long run. It is, however, important to note, that a mattress's firmness depends on your individual preference and need. And you need to choose one according to that.
If you're in search of a mattress that offers exceptional support and comfort, it might be time to make the switch to firm. Check out our mattress collection to find your next best mattress in your preferred firmness.