Is a Memory Foam Mattress Firm?

I found yoyr site while searching for a bed to go up a small hallway. My question is I always buy a firm mattress and your states med soft. I get back aches on a soft mattress. Please comment.

Hi Barbara,

Boy that's a good question.

Firmness ratings for memory foam mattresses are a little different than for innerspring beds. Memory foam is soft to the touch and applies an even pressure to your body as you lie down on it, so it's not really "firm".

In my mind firm (in regards to an innerspring mattress) means it applies more pressure on your hips and shoulders, and this keeps your spine in alignment and is better for your back. But these pressure points also cause joint discomfort, or pain, and reduce circulation. Pressure points also cause you to turn about more at night and can disturb your sleep.

A memory foam mattress is different; it applies an even pressure, so there are not really any “firm” areas.

But if we set that debate aside for a minute, I think I know what you want in a memory foam mattress to give the best support to your back. A memory foam mattress with 3" of (good) memory foam on top will allow the foam to conform to your body, gently supporting your upward curving parts, like your neck and lower back, but also offering deeper support for your hips and shoulders.

A pillow top with super soft foam or fiber quilted into the top of the mattress will be softer, so avoid those if you want something firmer. You want a "tight top" mattress, like our 8", 9", and 10" mattresses. A tight top mattress has a single fabric layer directly over the top layer of memory foam. It is usually has a zipper and is removable.

The layer of foam underneath the 3" of memory foam is traditional polyurethane foam. It's firm and keeps your hips and shoulders from sinking too far into the mattress, which keeps your spine in alignment.

Here's an article I wrote about proper, neutral spine position and back pain relief.

Thanks for the great question.