Chronic back pain can make it hard to get a good night’s sleep. At Idler’s, one of the most common questions we hear is, “Should I choose a soft or firm mattress for back pain?” The answer isn’t always straightforward, but understanding the differences can guide you toward the best choice for your comfort and health.
In this guide, we’ll explore the construction and benefits of soft versus firm mattresses, delve into how each type affects back pain, and provide insights to help you, whether you’re a side sleeper struggling with back pain or a back sleeper looking for more support.
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Shop Mattresses Near MeThe real question underneath, “Should I choose a soft or firm mattress for back pain?” is “How can I find a mattress that supports my spine, alleviates discomfort, and promotes restful sleep?” Let’s find out.
Soft vs Firm Mattresses: What’s the Difference?
First, in our quest to choose between a soft mattress or firm, it’s important to differentiate between the two options.
Construction and Feel: Firm or Soft Mattress?
A soft mattress typically features thick comfort layers made from materials like memory foam or pillow tops. They conform closely to the body, offering a plush, enveloping feel. This contouring can relieve pressure points, making soft mattresses appealing to side sleepers and those seeking a cozy sleep surface.
A firm mattress has thinner comfort layers and denser support cores, providing a more solid surface with minimal sinkage. They promote a feeling of sleeping “on” rather than “in” the mattress, which can be beneficial for back and stomach sleepers who need extra support to maintain spinal alignment.
Firm Mattress or Soft Mattress Pros and Cons
Here’s a comparison of the pros and cons of each mattress type to help you answer the question, “Is soft or firm better for me?”
| Mattress Type | Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Mattress | Excellent pressure relief for shoulders and hips Ideal for side sleepers Provides a cozy, enveloping feel | May lack adequate support for spinal alignment Can cause excessive sinkage Not suitable for heavier individuals |
| Firm Mattress | Promotes proper spinal alignment Provides robust support for back and stomach sleepers Reduces the likelihood of sagging over time | May feel too hard for some sleepers Less contouring can cause pressure points, especially for side sleepers |
→ Learn more: 3 Hybrid Mattress Brands That Offer True Value
Is a Soft or Firm Mattress Better for Back Pain?
When it comes to alleviating back pain, research and expert opinions often point toward medium-firm to firm mattresses as being most beneficial.
For example, a review of research in the Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology concluded that mattress firmness plays a leading role in sleep quality, and medium-firm mattresses might effectively reduce pain in individuals who suffer from back pain.
In fact, a study published by PubMed found that patients with medium-firm mattresses reported better outcomes for pain in bed, pain upon rising, and less daytime low-back pain than those with firm mattresses. And if you’re still on the fence, studies show that a medium-firm mattress works well for most people, whether or not they experience back pain.
If you’ve always loved the cloud-like feel of a soft mattress, you don’t necessarily have to make the switch. Soft mattresses aren’t categorically bad for your back. Especially for lightweight individuals and side sleepers, they can be a cozy and comfortable choice. But it’s still worth knowing that they don’t offer the same support for pressure points in the back as a firm or medium-firm mattress.
Now, as we continue to help you decide between a firm mattress or soft, let’s consider specific back issues, the role of your sleep position, and your own personal preferences and body composition.
Addressing Specific Back Issues
If you’ve come to this article chiefly to understand whether a soft or firm mattress for back pain is better, consider this info about a bad back soft or firm mattress:
➥Lower Back Pain: A firmer mattress supports the natural curve of the lumbar spine, preventing it from sinking too deeply and maintaining alignment.
➥Pressure Points: While soft mattresses offer pressure relief, they may not provide the necessary support, leading to misalignment. Medium-firm mattresses strike a balance between comfort and support.
➥Spinal Alignment: Proper alignment is crucial. A mattress that's too soft can cause the spine to curve unnaturally, exacerbating pain. Firmer mattresses help keep the spine in a neutral position.
Personal Preference and Body Weight
Individual factors like body weight and personal comfort preferences are essential. Heavier individuals may find that firmer mattresses provide better support, while lighter individuals might prefer the contouring of a softer mattress. It's important to test different options to find what feels best for you.
The Role of Sleep Position
Are you asking, “I’m a side sleeper: soft or firm mattress?” Well, you’re on the right track because your preferred sleep position absolutely plays a role in determining the ideal mattress firmness.
- Back Sleepers: A medium-firm mattress often provides the right balance of support and cushioning to maintain the spine's natural curve.
- Stomach Sleepers: A firmer mattress is typically best, as it helps keep the hips from sinking and prevents strain on the lower back.
- Side Sleepers: A slightly softer mattress can help cushion pressure points at the shoulders and hips, while still offering enough support to keep the spine aligned.
→ Learn more: Is a Memory Foam Mattress Good for a Hot Climate?
5 Featured Mattresses for Better Backs
Keep reading as we make top recommendations for all sleepers, whether you’re a back sleeper waking up in pain or need side sleeper firm or soft mattress advice.
Malouf™ CoolSync™ Neve 10" Memory Foam Medium Firm Tight Top Queen Mattress in a Box
Shop this Malouf™ Medium Firm Mattress in a Box
This high-quality mattress is a medium-firm option that caters to those who want to sink into their mattress. This sensation comes from the plush memory foam. Malouf’s CoolSync™ foam is infused with cooling gel and gently contours to the shape of your body. The bamboo charcoal transition foam also helps keep you cool and fresh all night long. Overall, this 10” memory foam mattress is a solid option for side and back sleepers.
Featured Malouf #MM10QQNE38GB Mattress Review
“This mattress is so nice and comfortable. It keeps me cool throughout the nice and the material is very breathable. It’s very supportive and durable and was easy to setup. The quality of this mattress is very nice and I definitely recommend it.” -jciarasreviews_9768
Sealy® Carrington Chase Pacific Rest 10" Hybrid Firm Tight Top Queen Mattress
Shop the Sealy® Carrington Chase Firm Queen Mattress
This budget-friendly mattress is another crowd-pleaser. Thanks to its hybrid design and firm feel, it appeals to a wide range of sleepers. It’s particularly effective for back and stomach sleepers as well as heavier individuals. We love the 10” height and the attractive gray and blue cover. Sealy is a trusted brand and one of our customer favorites here at Idler’s.
Featured Sealy #53114851 Mattress Review:
“This is by far the best firm mattress we have ever owned . This hybrid has the best of both worlds. My husband suffered from back injury but this Sealy mattress helps him sleeps better . Its quality is great . Highly recommend” -Lilly27
Sealy® Posturepedic® Hybrid Medina Firm Tight Top Queen Mattress in a Box
Shop this Sealy® Posturepedic® Firm Queen Mattress in a Box
Sealy’s Posturepedic collection is ideal for those with back pain. This one is a firm, tight top queen mattress that measures 11” tall. It features SealyCool™ gel foam, which is ideal for hot sleepers. For couples or those sleeping with pets or children, the motion isolation this mattress offers is a must. We love the hybrid combination of SealySupport™ gel foam and the durable Stableedge™ Pro coil system.
Featured Sealy #52778851 Mattress Review:
“I bought this mattress for my son as he was complaining of how bad his previous bed is now he is so happy having good sleep and a bed that supports his back. Great buy. Overall the price is great for the quality of the mattress and the online experience and delivery was smooth. Great buying experience.” -Sleepy Penguin
Stearns & Foster® Estate 14.5" Wrapped Coil Firm Tight Top Queen Mattress
Shop this Stearns & Foster® Estate Firm Queen Mattress
This luxurious hybrid mattress is from the Stearns & Foster Estate collection. It features layers of comfort and support, including an AirVent system, PrecisionEdge™ Support, IntelliCoil® innersprings, and TEMPUR-Indulge memory foam comfort layers. The AirVent system is ideal for hot sleepers, while the wrapped coils offer excellent support. The TENCEL® cover is sustainably sourced and moisture-wicking, not to mention stylish. This firm queen mattress is especially suited for stomach and back sleepers who enjoy a little luxury.
Featured Stearns & Foster #53008951 Mattress Review:
“Purchased this mattress after experiencing back pain from sleeping on an older mattress. I'm a stomach sleeper so was looking for a firmer mattress, but my wife is a back/side sleeper. She likes a firmer mattress too, but wanted something that still provided comfort with the support. This mattress fits the bill without breaking the bank. Would recommend.” -Stomach Sleeper
Stearns & Foster Estate Wrapped Coil Ultra Firm Tight Top Queen Mattress
Shop this Stearns & Foster® Estate Firm Queen Mattress
This mattress is for the stomach sleepers! This Stearns & Foster Estate mattress features an ultra-firm comfort level. Although not for everyone, heavier individuals and stomach sleepers will benefit from this mattress. It’s a hybrid mattress with wrapped coils and TEMPUR-Indulge memory foam comfort layers. It’s also ideal for those who tend to get hot during the night, thanks to its AirVent system and moisture-wicking cover.
Featured Stearns & Foster #53051351 Mattress Review:
“I've had several mattresses over my life 54 years. I've never paid this much for a mattress. I have been come to realize I've been missing out. My back has never been this good! Amazing comfort! I will never cheap out on a mattress again!” -HotRodScout
→ Learn more: Ultimate Guide to Pillow Top Mattresses and Their Benefits
What Should I Choose?
So, is a soft or firm mattress for back pain the way to go? Our verdict: medium-firm mattresses are ideal for most sleepers. If you’re in serious pain, you might want a firmer option, though.
Ultimately, choosing between a soft and firm mattress for back pain relief depends on various factors, including your specific pain points, sleep position, and personal preferences. Generally, medium-firm to firm mattresses offer the best combination of support and comfort for most back pain sufferers.
At Idler’s, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect mattress to meet your needs. Our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you through our wide selection of quality, affordable mattresses. Visit one of our Central Coast locations or explore our mattresses online to start your journey toward better sleep and a pain-free back.
Soft vs Firm Mattress FAQ
A medium-firm to firm mattress is generally better for back support. It helps maintain proper spinal alignment and reduces pressure on the back muscles. However, individual preferences and specific back issues should also be considered.
Avoid mattresses that are too soft or too firm. A mattress that's too soft may not provide adequate support, leading to misalignment, while one that's too firm may not offer enough cushioning, causing pressure points.
Sleeping on a medium-firm mattress is often considered healthier for most individuals, as it provides a balance between support and comfort, promoting better spinal alignment and reducing the risk of back pain.
Yes, a mattress that's too soft can cause the lower back to sink too deeply, leading to poor spinal alignment and potential back pain over time.
You can visit Idler’s Home, your local mattress retailer on California’s Central Coast. We offer a wide selection of quality, affordable mattresses to suit your needs. Our knowledgeable staff is here to help you find the perfect fit for a restful night's sleep.
Why Trust Idler’s Home?
At Idler’s Home, we believe in providing the highest quality products and service to our community. Over the span of 70 years (and counting), our business has seen successful growth, with over 100 employees and five locations along the central coast of California. Not only do we offer major appliances, quality furniture, and the best mattresses but we also provide hot tubs and swim spas and perform kitchen design services. In addition, our trained professional installers can set up all appliances we sell while our factory-trained technicians service and repair them if they ever break down. Suffice it to say: Idler’s is dedicated to helping you make the vision you have for your home a reality.
Shop Mattresses at Idler’s
Envision the possibilities for your home and shop mattresses online at Idler’s. Our friendly team is always happy to help you choose a soft or firm mattress for back pain — whether you call us, email us, or use our online chat feature. Or better yet, stop by any of our five Central Coast locations to experience the quality of our products yourself. Visit us today!
→ Learn more: Queen Mattress in a Box: 6 Top Rated Mattress Models