Choosing the right mattress is an important decision, as it forms the foundation of a good night’s sleep.

While many factors can affect how well you sleep, your mattress is one thing you can control. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which feel is right for you. Understanding the differences between firm, medium, and plush mattresses can help you find the best fit for your sleep needs.

This guide will help you determine which mattress feel is best suited to your sleep style.

Firm Could Be Right For You If:

  • You’re a front or back sleeper

  • You get too hot during the night and prefer to sleep ‘on top’ of the mattress, rather than ‘sinking in’.

  • You’re looking for extra support and a mattress that maintains its shape over time

It’s a common misconception that a firmer mattress is the only, or best, solution for back pain.

Set aside 10–15 minutes to lie on the mattress in-store, just as you would at home. If a mattress feels too firm in the showroom, it will feel even firmer once you’re at home. If you notice any pressure points while lying down, the mattress is likely too firm for you.

Medium Could Be Right For You If:

  • You want a balanced feel that combines comfort and support, suiting most body types and sleep positions.

  • You’re a back, front, or side sleeper looking for gentle pressure relief without feeling too firm or too soft.

  • You and your partner have different sleep needs, making medium a great compromise option for couples.

If you and your partner have different comfort preferences or experience partner disturbance, we recommend popping in together to see our sleep consultants. They can help you test the right feel together and offer tailored advice to ensure you both enjoy a better night’s sleep. Comfort and firmness can vary between brands, and our experienced consultants can help you find the option that feels just right for you.

Plush Could Be Right For You If:

  • You’re a side sleeper or experience pressure through your hips and shoulders.

  • You want extra cushioning and comfort, with a softer feel that gently contours to your body.

  • You experience stiffness, aches, or pressure points, and prefer a more cushioned sleep surface.

Plush mattresses use the same supportive spring systems as firmer options, but with additional comfort layers on top. This extra padding helps relieve pressure, reduce stiffness, and provide a more cradling, contouring feel without compromising support. If comfort needs change over time, extra padding can make a big difference. Many sleepers find they prefer a plusher feel as their needs change over time, particularly when replacing a mattress after 8 to 10 years.

Head in-store and let our sleep consultants help you find your ideal comfort level. After all, quality sleep is one of the most important foundations of overall wellbeing, and it all starts with the right mattress..