MATTRESS COMFORT GUIDE

When shopping for a new mattress, comfort and support are both essential - but they are not the same thing. Mattress support is the foundation of healthy sleep, helping maintain proper spinal alignment and preventing aches and pains. Mattress comfort, on the other hand, refers to the immediate feel and pressure relief you experience when lying down. Comfort is largely a personal preference and plays a key role in how easily you fall asleep. Mattress comfort levels fall into three main categories: plush, medium, and firm.

Plush

SHOP PLUSH

Medium

SHOP MEDIUM

Firm

SHOP FIRM

Plush

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Medium

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Firm

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PLUSH MATTRESS

Plush mattresses provide a soft, luxuriously cushioned feel designed to cradle your body and ease pressure points. They’re ideal for side sleepers and anyone who needs extra joint comfort.

SHOP PLUSH

MEDIUM MATTRESS

Medium mattresses offer a balanced blend of firmness and cushioning, gently conforming to your body while providing moderate support. This versatile feel delivers a mix of softness and stability, ensuring a comfortable and restful night’s sleep for a wide range of sleepers.

SHOP MEDIUM

FIRM MATTRESS

Firm mattresses offer less cushioning and a more rigid feel compared to medium mattresses. They provide strong, consistent support, making them an excellent choice for stomach sleepers who need proper spinal alignment, as well as for sleepers who prefer uncompromising support throughout the night.

SHOP FIRM

COMPARE COMFORT LEVELS

PLUSH VS. MEDIUM

A plush mattress typically offers a more cushioned feel with extra comfort and a “sink-in” sensation, while a medium mattress provides a blend of softness and support.

MEDIUM VS. FIRM

Medium mattresses strike a balance between softness and firmness and provide a combination of cushioning and stability. Firm mattresses, on the other hand, offer more solid support, making them suitable for individuals who prefer a harder surface and need extra support.

FIRM VS. PLUSH

Firm mattresses offer more rigid support and feel throughout the night, while a plush mattress offers a cushion padded comfort level for a very giving sleep surface.

Take the guesswork out of choosing the right mattress with

Bedmatch

FIND YOUR PERFECT MATTRESS, BACKED BY SCIENCE.

LEARN MORE

Take the guesswork out of choosing the right mattress with

BedMatch

FIND YOUR PERFECT MATTRESS, BACKED BY SCIENCE.

LEARN MORE

Find the Comfort Level That Fits Your Sleep


Picking the right mattress feel can make a noticeable difference in how well you sleep and how you feel when you wake up. Support is what helps keep your spine in a healthy position throughout the night, but comfort is what determines the immediate sensation—how well the mattress cushions your joints, relieves pressure, and helps your body fully relax. Whether you sleep on your side, switch positions, or prefer a sturdier surface, the right comfort level can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Since comfort can feel different depending on the mattress design and materials, trying a few in person is often the best way to decide. At Mattress Warehouse, our patented bedMATCH® sleep diagnostic system uses your sleep position, body type, and personal preferences to recommend mattresses that match you more accurately. With smart sleep technology and knowledgeable support, finding your ideal mattress comfort level becomes simple and stress-free.


Mattress Comfort FAQs


Get quick, helpful answers to popular questions about mattress feel, firmness levels, and how to pick the best option for your sleep style and comfort preferences.


How can I make a mattress feel more comfortable?


If your bed feels too firm or isn’t relieving pressure the way you want, a quality mattress topper can soften the surface and improve cushioning. Small upgrades like the right pillow for your sleep position and breathable sheets can also boost comfort by supporting alignment and keeping you cooler. If you’re still waking up sore or restless, your mattress may not be the right match for your body and sleep style.


How does mattress firmness impact comfort?


Firmness plays a big role in how your body settles into the mattress and where you feel pressure. When a mattress is too soft, you may sink unevenly and lose proper alignment; when it’s too firm, you might feel excess pressure at the shoulders, hips, or lower back. The best firmness level is the one that keeps you supported while still feeling comfortable and relaxed all night.


How can technology help me choose the right mattress?


The best mattress choice starts with the basics—your sleep position, body type, and what “comfortable” feels like to you. Mattress Warehouse makes that easier with bedMATCH®, a patented sleep diagnostic system that evaluates your body in-store and recommends plush, medium, or firm options that fit your profile. It uses thousands of data points—like weight distribution, height, sleep position, and lumbar curve—to help narrow down the best matches faster.


What’s the best way to help a mattress last longer?


A mattress protector is one of the simplest ways to prevent damage from spills, allergens, and everyday wear. Rotating your mattress (when recommended) can also reduce uneven sagging over time. And making sure it sits on a sturdy, supportive base helps maintain comfort and structure for the long haul.