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Last Updated January 24, 2025
A mattress that’s too soft might seem inviting at first, but night after night, it can leave you tossing, turning, and desperate for support. The good news? You don’t have to splurge on a new mattress to solve the problem. With these 7 simple and cost-effective tips, you can transform your overly soft mattress into a supportive haven for better sleep and improved comfort.
Key Takeaways:
Before we dive into ways to make your soft mattress firmer, let’s talk about who actually benefits from a firm sleeping surface. Not everyone’s ideal mattress feels the same, and a firm one could be exactly what your body needs.
For those who sleep on their backs, a firm mattress can be a game changer. It helps maintain proper spinal alignment by preventing the lower back from sinking too deeply, promoting better posture, and reducing discomfort.
Sleeping on your stomach requires support that keeps the hips elevated and the spine straight. A firmer mattress ensures this alignment, helping stomach sleepers avoid unnecessary strain on their lower back.
Individuals with a heavier body weight often find that firmer mattresses provide the durability and consistent support they need. Unlike softer options, a firm surface resists sagging, maintaining its structure over time.
Some simply enjoy the grounded and supportive sensation a firm mattress provides. It offers a stable surface that feels secure and solid, catering to personal preferences.
If any of these sound like you, firming up your mattress might be a worthwhile move.
Now, let's look at the different methods you can adopt to make a mattress feel firmer.
One of the quickest ways to add firmness to your bed is by using a firm mattress topper.
Most mattress toppers are designed to enhance comfort, but for added firmness, you’ll want to choose options made from natural latex or high-density memory foam. These materials provide excellent support and help create a more even sleeping surface.
Installation is simple: just place the topper directly on top of your mattress and secure it with fitted sheets or mattress straps. You’ll notice a significant difference almost immediately, without the cost or hassle of replacing your entire mattress.
The foundation of your bed plays a critical role in how firm your mattress feels. Even the most expensive mattress can feel saggy if the foundation isn’t providing adequate support.
Check your bed frame, slats, or box spring for any signs of wear, bending, or instability. If you notice issues, upgrading to a sturdier platform bed or adding extra slats can make a big difference. A strong foundation not only improves firmness but also extends the life of your mattress.
Adding plywood is one of the simplest and most effective DIY solutions for improving mattress firmness.
By placing a solid piece of plywood between your mattress and its foundation, you create an even, supportive surface that minimizes sagging. This method works particularly well for memory foam or hybrid mattresses that tend to lose their firmness over time.
Make sure to measure your bed frame to ensure the plywood fits snugly and doesn’t shift around.
Mattresses naturally wear out unevenly due to repeated use in the same areas. Rotating or flipping your mattress helps redistribute this wear, making it feel firmer and more supportive. For rotation, turn your mattress 180 degrees so the head becomes the foot.
If your mattress is double-sided, like the dual side flippable mattress, flipping it over can also help restore firmness. Be sure to check your mattress type—some newer models are one-sided and aren’t designed for flipping.
Regular rotation or flipping every 3-6 months can greatly improve your mattress’s longevity.
Did you know that temperature can affect mattress firmness? Memory foam mattresses, in particular, are sensitive to temperature changes. Warmer environments make memory foam softer and more pliable, while cooler temperatures make it firmer.
If your mattress feels too soft, try lowering the bedroom temperature slightly. Adjusting the thermostat or using a fan can firm up your mattress without any additional effort.
Adding extra layers beneath your mattress is another quick and temporary solution to firm up a soft bed.
Folded blankets, towels, or even yoga mats can provide additional support, particularly in areas where the mattress sags. This method is ideal for guest beds or short-term use, as it allows you to customize the level of firmness based on your needs. Just make sure the layers are evenly distributed to avoid creating lumps or uneven spots.
Use this trick while traveling or for guest accommodations to temporarily improve the comfort of older or softer mattresses.
Sometimes, no amount of DIY fixes can salvage a mattress that’s past its prime. If your mattress has noticeable sagging, lumps, or a worn-out pillow top, it might be time to replace certain components. For example, some mattresses allow you to remove or replace the pillow top for a firmer feel.
Alternatively, if your foundation is sagging, replacing it with a new, sturdier base can rejuvenate the firmness of your bed.
For mattresses over 7-10 years old, investing in a new one might be the most practical solution.
A too-soft mattress doesn’t have to ruin your sleep or your budget. Whether it’s adding a topper, tweaking your bed’s setup, or simply flipping the mattress, these fixes can help you enjoy a firmer, more supportive sleeping surface in no time. Sweet dreams!
A soft mattress might lead to back pain because it lacks the necessary support to keep your spine properly aligned while you sleep. When a mattress is too soft, it allows certain parts of your body, such as your hips and shoulders, to sink too deeply into the surface.
This uneven sinking creates an unnatural curve in your spine, leading to strain on the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and joints. Over time, this strain can result in stiffness, discomfort, or even chronic back pain.
The problem is especially common for back or stomach sleepers, who require a firmer surface to maintain a neutral spinal alignment throughout the night. Additionally, a soft mattress may exacerbate existing back issues by failing to provide the support needed for pressure relief and proper weight distribution.
If your mattress feels too soft and doesn’t provide enough support, there are several ways to make it firmer. One of the simplest solutions is to add a firm mattress topper. Another method is to place a sheet of plywood between the mattress and its foundation, such as a box spring or bed frame.
If you have a memory foam mattress, lowering the room temperature may help since foam tends to soften in warmer conditions. Rotating or flipping your mattress (if it’s designed for flipping) can also prevent uneven wear and help maintain firmness over time.
Yes, mattress toppers are an effective way to make a bed firmer. While many people associate toppers with added softness, there are toppers specifically designed to increase firmness.
High-density memory foam toppers, for example, provide a firm yet slightly contouring surface that supports the body without excessive sinking. Latex toppers are another excellent option because they are naturally firmer and more resilient than other materials.
For those who prefer natural materials, compact wool or cotton toppers can add a layer of firmness while still being breathable and comfortable.
When selecting a mattress topper to make your bed firmer, pay attention to its thickness and material density. Thicker, denser toppers will generally provide more noticeable firmness and support.
Related blog posts:
1. How to Make a Firm Mattress Softer
4. How to Break in a New Mattress?
Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.
