Whether your mattress has been soft from the moment you unpacked it or it has become softer over time, you can learn how to make your mattress firmer and fix this issue.
We’ll answer the long-standing question of why mattress firmness is important, share DIY methods for improving firmness, and explore expert-backed tips and tricks to improve mattress support!
Why You Might Need a Firmer Mattress
What type of mattress is best? Different folks prefer different types of mattresses, with some leaning towards a firmer mattress. In your case, it might be time to start looking at how to make your mattress firmer for one or more of the reasons below.
Back and Spine Support
An aging mattress or one that’s factory-made to be too soft can affect your back, lower back, and entire spinal column. With such a mattress, your hips and shoulders can easily sink in, which may throw your spine out of proper alignment and lead to pain… especially in the lumbar region.
Firmer mattresses distribute weight more evenly, helping maintain the spine’s neutral position and protecting your posture [1]. That’s why they can offer better support, improved alignment, and pain relief.
Body Weight and Sleeping Position Considerations
People who sleep on their side might not experience major issues with a softer mattress, but those who sleep on their stomach or back will likely feel the difference.
For example, folks weighing over 80 kilograms who sleep on their back might find that, over time, a soft mattress turns into a “hammock,” which isn’t exactly ideal for their lower back. It’s only a matter of time before they start researching how to make a soft mattress firmer.
The equation is simple: softer mattresses work better for side sleepers, while firmer mattresses are more suitable for stomach and back sleepers.
Medical Conditions
People with certain medical conditions may require a firmer sleeping surface, such as:
- Sciatica
- Arthritis
- Herniated discs
- Fibromyalgia
In these cases, a firmer mattress helps reduce pressure points and keeps the spine in proper alignment. While it may not be the ultimate solution for each of these conditions, it can offer better support to improve the sleep quality and overall health of the person dealing with the diagnosis [2].
Aging or Sagging Mattresses
Just like any other product, no matter how high-quality it is, a mattress begins to lose its functionality and gradually wears out over time. Signs of aging are typically expected after about 7 to 10 years of regular use.
These may include sagging springs or softening of the memory foam, which can cause the mattress to dip (most commonly in the center). When such signs appear, it’s time to raise the question: “Is there a way to make a mattress firmer?”
4 Quick Fixes To Make a Mattress Firmer
Not every sign of wear and tear means your mattress needs to be tossed out right away. Thankfully, there are certain measures you can take to extend the lifespan of your mattress and even improve its firmness. Here are some of the most commonly practiced methods.
1. Flip or Rotate the Mattress
One of the simplest ways to prevent mattress sagging is to flip or rotate it. Since most folks tend to sleep in the same spot night after night, this can lead to soft spots and uneven wear. To avoid that, rotating the mattress 180 degrees (or upside-down) is a quick and easy fix.
When It Works and When It Doesn’t
Note that this only works if your mattress is double-sided.
So, this tip is highly recommended for:
- Innerspring mattresses
- Traditional foam mattresses
On the flip side, it’s not advisable for:
- Memory foam mattresses
- Hybrid mattresses
2. Use a Firm Mattress Topper
If the mattress has already softened and started sagging, and you’re trying to find a solution on how to make a sagging mattress firmer, you can solve your problem by adding the best mattress topper.
Types of Mattress Toppers
There are several kinds of toppers available, made from different materials [3]:
- Latex mattress toppers
- Memory foam
- Polyfoam or hybrid foam
- Fiber-filled or quilted toppers
Pros and Cons of Using a Mattress Topper
The advantages of a quality mattress topper are that it’s quite affordable, easy to set up, and helps extend the lifespan of your mattress. On the other hand, a downside is that it can shift around during sleep. If your mattress is already tall, the topper will make it even taller. Lastly, you’ll also have to go through a bit of trial-and-error to find the right firmness level.
3. Add Plywood Under the Mattress
A well-known method for adding firmness to your mattress is by placing a plywood board underneath. This reinforces the base and prevents the mattress from sagging or losing its shape.
Step-By-Step Guide To Placing Plywood Properly
The first thing you should do is measure your mattress. The dimensions of your mattress will determine the size of the plywood. Next, you can get it cut to size at your local hardware store. It’s a good idea to round the corners of the plywood to prevent tearing the mattress cover. Once prepped, place the plywood directly underneath the mattress.
Potential Risks (e.g., Mold Buildup)
The main risk of using plywood is that it blocks airflow, which can lead to moisture buildup and, in the worst-case scenario, mold. To prevent this, ventilate the room regularly and consider using a moisture-resistant barrier between the mattress and the plywood.
4. Adjust the Room Temperature
Temperature can influence how your mattress feels, especially if you have a memory foam mattress.
How Temperature Affects Memory Foam Softness
Memory foam is known for being temperature-sensitive. As the room gets warmer, the foam becomes softer, which can make your bed feel like a hammock. On the flip side, when the room is cooler, the foam compresses and grows dense, making the surface feel slightly firmer and more supportive.
Tips for Regulating Bedroom Temperature
Here are some common ways to manage the temperature in your bedroom to achieve a firmer mattress feel:
- Use fans, air conditioning, or other cooling devices to lower the room temperature.
- Avoid electric blankets or heated mattress pads if you’re aiming for a firmer surface.
- Choose breathable bedding materials that may help cool your sleep environment without trapping body heat.
On the other hand, if you’re wondering how to make a firm mattress softer, just raise the temperature to encourage the opposite effect.
BONUS TIPS: How To Make a Mattress Firmer–Longer-Term Solutions
If the techniques and methods we suggested still don’t give you the firmness you’re looking for, it might be time to consider some longer-term solutions. Here are a few worth exploring.
1. Replace the Box Spring or Bed Base
After years of regular use, not only can your mattress wear down, but so can the foundation beneath it. If your bed feels saggy, the issue might actually stem from worn-out box springs or bed bases. Replacing it with a new, sturdier one may instantly restore the firmness and support you’re missing.
2. Use a Mattress Helper or Support Board
A mattress helper or support board is a smart fix for mattresses that have started to sag. Acting as a reinforcement layer (similar to plywood), it’s designed to target and support pressure zones that have weakened over time. These tools work especially well with hybrid and memory foam mattresses.
3. Dry Out the Mattress (If It’s Absorbed Moisture)
Curious to know how to make a memory foam mattress firmer? Memory foam and other mattress materials are prone to absorbing moisture, whether from sweat, spills, or humidity in the air. Over time, this can soften the mattress and lead to sagging.
To counter this, remove all bedding and allow the mattress to air out completely. Place it in a well-ventilated area, like a balcony or an airy room with good cross-breeze. Then, use fans or a dehumidifier to speed up the drying process. This can help restore some of the mattress’s original firmness.
When To Replace Your Mattress
When both short-term and long-term methods aren’t that effective anymore, it’s time for the final stage: replacing your mattress with a new one. Recognizing when it’s time to store your old mattress and get a new one will help you save many sleepless nights and body aches. At this stage, there’s no need to find additional ways to make the mattress firmer.
Signs Your Mattress Is Beyond Saving
- When it sags and doesn’t return to its original shape
- When the pain upon waking gets worse every night
- When the surface is uneven (with lumps and depressions!) and there’s no firmness in the middle of the mattress
- When you feel like you sleep better on any other bed besides your own
- When you notice springs popping or hear creaking in the core of the mattress
Lifespan of Common Mattress Types
Knowing what your mattress is made of and understanding the average lifespan of each type can help you easily determine when to buy a new one.
Here are the types of mattresses with their average lifespans:
- Innerspring: 5-7 years
- Memory foam: 6-10 years (those with higher density last longer)
- Latex: 10-12 years
- Hybrid: 8-10 years (depends on the coil and foam quality)
These are just approximate time frames, assuming that each of these mattresses is used under normal conditions, without any unexpected long-term external factors.
Investing in a Firmer Mattress if Needed
If you’ve already decided to buy a new mattress and are no longer concerned with how to make a pillow top mattress firmer, consider the following:
- Your sleeping position
- The ventilation of your room
- The material of the mattress
Do you sleep on your back or stomach? You probably need a firm or medium-firm mattress. Yet, if you sleep on your side, you’ll likely feel comfortable with a medium-firm to soft mattress.
Either way, make sure that the mattress is made from high-quality materials like high-density foam, latex, or a hybrid construction. You might also need a mattress that supports heavy folks, depending on your weight.
Thanks to the 100-day trial periods offered by many sleep industry companies, you can easily try out and experience the mattress before making a decision. This way, you can confidently choose the best mattress that will make it easier for you to sleep and rest better.
Expert Insights
The sleep industry specialist, Dr. Hiroshi Takeda, emphasizes the benefits of sleeping on a firmer surface. He believes that a firmer mattress, similar to the traditional Japanese “shikibuton,” can significantly improve spinal posture, reduce pressure points, and enhance circulation [4].
What’s more, Thomas Høegh Reisenhus, the senior front-end innovation manager of a popular mattress brand, highlights the importance of mattress support for overall health. He recommends that each person should own a quality mattress, as it is essential to one’s physical and mental health [5].
FAQs on How To Make a Mattress Firmer
Got more questions about firming up your mattress? Check out our answers to popular questions!Is It Possible To Make a Mattress Firmer at Home?
Yes, it is, and you can achieve that through several approaches. For instance, you can rotate your mattress, use a firm mattress topper, lower your bedroom temperature, and (if needed) buy a new one altogether. Just make sure it’s the best firm mattress this time around!
How Can I Increase the Firmness of My Bed?
You can make your bed firmer by replacing an old box spring or adding plywood support. Ultimately, you might need to buy a new bed frame if your old one is already too worn out to support your mattress.
Does Putting Plywood Under a Mattress Make It Firmer?
Yes, it does. Plywood adds stability by reducing sag and soft spots, making the mattress feel firmer.
Why Does My Back Hurt on a Soft Mattress?
If a mattress is too soft, your body might twist into awkward positions, leaving your spine misaligned for hours. That can get uncomfortable… and eventually painful.
Final Words
A mattress that is too soft can cause various discomforts, disrupt your sleep, affect your spinal posture, and even your mood. But there’s good news! There are many short-term and long-term solutions on how to make a mattress firmer.
With the right approach for the condition your mattress is in, you can transform that soft, unbearable, hammock-like surface into a firm, comfortable sleeping paradise. So, sleep firmly on a firm mattress and wake up healthy and aligned!