The best firm mattress you can buy right now is the Plank Firm. This dual-sided all-foam mattress delivers excellent support for back and stomach sleepers who crave a firmer tension with minimal contouring.
But what if your preference is a luxury hybrid or a cooling bed? You'll find those options here as well. Most of our top firm mattress picks hold a spot in our overall guide to the best mattresses of 2025 for their superb performance and excellent value for money.
Speaking of deals, Memorial Day mattress sales are coming up at the end of May, so expect to see prices fall even further for our best firm mattress picks within the next several weeks. Here are the eight firm beds our expert testers recommend...
The top 5 firm mattresses at a glance
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1. The best firm mattress of 2025
Our pick for the best firm mattress overall, you’re essentially getting two beds for one with the Plank Firm due to its flippable design. One side is marked firm (8 out of 10 on the firmness scale), and the other is extra firm (10 out of 10). Otherwise, it's a simple design featuring a 6” core of high-density foam for support, a layer of comfort foam, and a quilted top on the firm side. The extra firm side merely knocks out the comfort layer.
Alongside a wider review panel, Sr Sleep Writer Ruth Jones awarded the Plank Firm an impressive 4.5 out of 5 following a three week testing period. The extra firm side is suited to stomach and back sleepers who want as little give as possible. (You'll also find the Plank Firm in our guide to the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.) The firm side offers enough contouring for average and heavier-weight sleepers to feel comfortable. However, we would not recommend it for strict side sleepers.
If you experience lower back pain, the Plank is a fantastic option with firm lumbar support to keep your spine aligned and hips lifted. Motion isolation is excellent, but temperature regulation could be improved; if you’re a hot sleeper, Ruth recommends upgrading to the GlacioTex cooling cover (she woke sweating on several occasions.) The mid-range price tag is competitive for a specialist mattress, especially with an evergreen sale knocking at least 20% off the MSRP. (This rises to 25-30% at major sales events. You’ll also get a 120-night trial, a lifetime warranty, and free shipping to your door.
What our testers like about it...
✅ It’s supremely supportive for front and back sleepers: While we think the firm side has a wider appeal overall for its minimal cushioning, our testing panel were pleasantly surprised at how comfortable they found the extra firm side when resting on their backs and stomachs.
✅ Strong edges all around: Sit or lie on any corner or side — no matter which way you have the mattress flipped, you won’t have to worry about sliding overboard
✅ It’s built for larger bodies, too: With a max weight capacity of 950lbs, the all-foam Plank Firm gives it the edge over the Saatva Classic (#4) in this category.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Prone to overheating: The dense, heavy foams of the Plank make it great for support — not so much for airflow. There is the option to add a GlacioTex cooling cover, but we think the Aurora Luxe Hybrid (#6) will be a better fit for hot sleepers.
❌ Side sleeping is a no-no: The Plank doesn’t have the 'coziness' you’d expect from even a medium-firm mattress, and the pressure relief won’t be sufficient enough for most sleepers to avoid a dead hip, shoulder, or arm (as our main tester experienced).
The Plank Firm Mattress: Expert verdict
I spent over a month sleeping on the Plank Firm and while I was initially surprised by its total lack of coziness, the incredible support soon won me over. The Plank Firm is sturdy from corner to corner, so I can sit, lie, toss and turn without worrying sinking hips will cause back pain. Minimal cushioning means side sleeping is less comfortable, but when lying on my front or back, my spine is grateful.
- Learn more: Plank Firm mattress review
Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
Support and comfort | To break down the rating by position: 3/5 (side sleeping) 4/5 (back and stomach sleeping). | ★★★★ |
Pressure relief | Pressure relief takes a back seat to support. It's enough for back and front sleepers, but not side sleepers. | ★★★★ |
Temperature control | The dense foam of the Plank traps heat, but you can add a GlacioTex cover for some cooling relief. | ★★★½ |
Motion isolation | Among the best we've recorded; the Extra Firm side performed slightly better as it lacked the 'bounce' of the opposite side.. | ★★★★½ |
Edge support | Perfect marks here, as the Plank Firm is strong right up to the corners. | ★★★★★ |
Build quality | This is a solidly-made bed, and the flippable design could work in its favor when it comes to longevity. | ★★★★ |
2. The best affordable firm mattress
Our top recommendation in our best cheap mattress guide, the Siena Memory Foam mattress offers superb performance for an incredibly reasonable price. This basic three-layer memory foam mattress is made by Resident Sleep, the parent company of Nectar and DreamCloud (also in this guide). That influence is obvious in the quality of the Siena’s construction and performance.
Siena rates its mattress at 6.5 out of 10, but all our testers felt it slept as a 9 out of 10, regardless of their stature or weight. We found the mattress particularly suited to stomach sleepers due to its firm support.
As you’d expect from an all-foam mattress, motion isolation is excellent, and it controls heat well for an all-foam bed. With its breathable top cover and the lack of a deep sink, we were pleasantly surprised not to overheat on it once, especially during testing one summer. (That said, we'd direct hot sleepers toward the Aurora Luxe further down this page.)
Siena raised the MSRP of the Siena Memory Foam mattress to $769 for a queen size but you can ignore this price as the mattress is never sold at full price. An evergreen discount takes a queen down to $359. You’ll also get a 180-night trial, a 10-year warranty, and free shipping to your door.
What our testers like about it...
✅ Supremely supportive for stomach sleepers: With an extra firm surface and minimal contouring, the Siena will prevent stomach sleepers' hips from sinking out of alignment. It'll also appeal to back sleepers who like a firm, almost flat surface.
✅ Surprisingly strong edges: This is considered a surprise because we're talking about a budget memory foam mattress. Such beds don't perform well in this category, but the Siena demonstrated otherwise.
✅ Superb value for money: The Siena looks and feels more like its mid-range sibling, the Nectar. Plus, you'll only pay as much as $499 for a king, with a 180-night trial included. No other budget mattress comes close.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Lacking in pressure relief for side sleepers: Stomach sleepers and some back sleepers will love the flat-and-firm surface of the Siena Mattress, but side sleepers and back sleepers who crave more contouring will be disappointed.
❌ Not for very hot sleepers: Memory foam is known to trap heat, but the Siena's lack of profound sinkage meant our testers didn't overheat. Still, we'd advise hot sleepers seek a hybrid or specialty cooling mattress.
Siena Memory Foam Mattress: Expert verdict
Our entire review panel could not believe they were sleeping on what's essentially a budget mattress in the Siena. While I'm not sure what its long-term durability will be like, I can confidently say this was a firm, sturdy mattress from the moment we unboxed it. The 180-night trial is impressive for such a low cost, as well.
- Read more: Siena Memory Foam mattress review
Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
Support and comfort | Stomach and back sleepers who prefer a flat, firm surface will like the Siena. | ★★★★ |
Pressure relief | A bump from our previous score after re-testing, the pressure relief here is very good — even if it's not abundant. | ★★★★ |
Temperature control | Exceeds expectations; the moisture-wicking cover is a nice touch. | ★★★★ |
Motion isolation | Like most all-foam beds, the Siena does a stellar job at dampening movement. | ★★★★½ |
Edge support | Overall, we found the edges stable and comfortable for sitting and getting in and out of bed — with some hesitation when lying right against the sides. | ★★★★ |
Build quality | Jury is out on years-long use, but out of the box it's quite impressive. | ★★★★ |
3. The best firm mattress for pressure relief
The DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid mattress punches above its mid-range price tag. Made up of six layers of premium foams, individually encased coils, and a luxurious cashmere cover, our testing panel was impressed by its build quality — especially as you can pick up a queen for under $700. If you happen upon a limited-time DreamCloud mattress sale, you could get a free bedding bundle thrown in too. Plus you’ll also get an incredibly generous 365-night trial and forever warranty, along with free shipping and returns.
Although DreamCloud rates the mattress at 6.5 out of 10, we found it to be firmer at 8 out of 10. This firmer support means that it’s one of the best mattresses for back pain you can buy, offering ample lumbar support and plenty of cushioning for pressure relief.
It’s a great all-rounder as well, although lightweight sleepers may find it takes a little while to get used to. It shines when it comes to motion isolation and does a great job of keeping sleepers cool. Its competitive price tag and exceptional pressure relief is why we rate the DreamCloud as the best mattress in a box on the market right now.
What our testers like about it...
✅ Great for aches and pains: Several of our panelists struggle with soreness in their hips and lower back. The DreamCloud adapted to their bodies and sleep positions to provide the support and relief they needed to sleep pain-free.
✅ Minimal motion transfer: According to our tests, the DreamCloud does an excellent job of limiting movement so you're unlikely to be disturbed by your partner's movements.
✅ Built for larger bodies: The DreamCloud can support up to 1,000lbs; by comparison, the WinkBeds Plus (#5) maxes out at 900lbs. This makes the DreamCloud one of the best firm mattresses for heavy people. The larger-framed testers in our panel found it comfortable, too.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Support around the edge could be better: This is where the DreamCloud falls short versus the Saatva Classic, WinkBed, and Plank Firm — all on this list. This was an issue for our heavier and taller sleepers in particular, as they were unstable when sitting on the sides of the bed. (It didn't fare better in our objective tests, either.)
❌ Maybe too firm for petite sleepers: Our lead tester weighs under 150lbs and didn't adjust to the DreamCloud until several weeks in. It does come with a one-year trial, which is plenty of time to break it in, but smaller sleepers may run out of patience before then.
DreamCloud Mattress: Expert Verdict
I think the DreamCloud mattress is one of the best value for money beds you can buy, appealing to a wide range of sleepers. The year long trial period and forever warranty is also impressive for a mid-range mattress. Lightweight side sleepers may find the bed a little firm to start with, but the DreamCloud quickly softens up, providing fantastic pressure relief and soothing away any aches and pains.
- Read more: DreamCloud Mattress review
Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
Support and comfort | For such a firm mattress, the DreamCloud is remarkably accommodating for most side sleepers. | ★★★★½ |
Pressure relief | Our testers reported a decrease in lower back and hip pain. It gently cradles and shoulders and knees, too. | ★★★★½ |
Temperature control | A cashmere-blend cover and wrapped coils make for a breathable bed that doesn't trap heat. | ★★★★½ |
Motion isolation | Drop tests showed that the DreamCloud limits most movement from reverberating across the surface. | ★★★★ |
Edge support | The taller and heavier testers in our group weren't too steady sitting on the sides of this mattress. | ★★★½ |
Build quality | For a bed-in-a-box, it's impressive. We'd place it below the Saatva Classic but (barely) above the WinkBed. | ★★★★½ |
4. Best luxury firm mattress
The Saatva Classic is the best hybrid mattress you can buy, offering a premium mattress with options to suit all sleepers. We’ve tested and re-tested the Saatva, and it’s the highest-scoring mattress across the board.
While it’s available in three firmness options, it’s the firm option that'll appeal to readers of this article. However, don’t discount the luxury firm option, which did a fantastic job of suiting nearly all types of sleepers. You'll 'float' on this mattress rather than sink right into it.
The Saatva’s breathable Euro pillow top and gel-infused memory foam lumbar crown do a great job of relieving pressure points and keeping you cool. The double layer of coils provides support and motion isolation, making it one of the best mattresses for couples you can buy.
Pricewise, the Classic is $2,099 for a queen size but regular Saatva mattress sales see between $200-$400 off. As you’d expect from a premium brand, the Saatva Classic comes with generous benefits: a 365-night trial, a forever warranty, and free white glove delivery with removal of your old mattress. Do be warned that there’s a $99 returns fee.
What our testers like about it...
What we like about it…
✅ Designed for back pain relief: The high-density lumbar crown and Lumbar Zone Active Spinal Wire support the lower back and the keep spine aligned in any position. This design has earned the Saatva Classic accolades from the Congress of Chiropractic State Association and the American Chiropractic Association.
✅ Sturdy edges and customizable height: Sleepers with back pain need a mattress that won't sag when they sit on it, and the Saatva Classic has outstanding edge support. A customizable height allows you to tailor the mattress to your level of mobility, a plus if you want a luxury bed but can't manage anything too tall.
✅ Free white glove delivery: When your back hurts, the last thing you want to do is set up a heavy mattress. Saatva includes white glove delivery in the cost, along with removal of your old mattress and foundation if needed.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Not for heavier bodies: With a limit of 300lbs per side, the Saatva Classic is a hair above average. The DreamCloud above has the highest weight capacity on this list at 500lbs per side.
❌Expect to pay for returns: Many sleep brands offer free returns, but Saatva tacks a $99 fee in case you want to send your mattress back.
Saatva Classic: Expert Verdict
The Saatva Classic is the mattress I wish was sold in the UK where I live. It's our top best mattress pick and deservedly so, with three firmness options to suit all types of sleeper, white glove delivery, a 365-night trial and a forever warranty. It does a marvellous job of supporting the spine and aced every single one of our tests.
- Learn more: Saatva Classic mattress review
Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
Support and comfort | Custom firmness levels cater to all sleep styles, but sleepers over 300lbs will need a sturdier bed. | ★★★★★ |
Pressure relief | Excellent pressure relief, especially around the lower back and hips. | ★★★★★ |
Temperature control | The coils and organic cotton cover help this mattress breathe. Our testers didn't overheat. | ★★★★★ |
Motion isolation | Upon retesting and compared to other hybrid mattresses we've tried, the Saatva Classic has the best motion isolation we've experienced. | ★★★★★ |
Edge support | No worries about sagging here, as our testers found the edges to be sturdy and comfortable to sit on. | ★★★★★ |
Build quality | This mattress is handcrafted to the highest standard and it shows. Best of all, it arrives flat. | ★★★★★ |
5. The best firm mattress for back pain
Another customizable mattress, the WinkBed is an upper mid-range hybrid featuring a dual-layer Euro pillow top, gel-infused foam, and zoned pocket springs for targeted lumbar support. Factor in the top-notch edge-to-edge support and it's an excellent choice for back pain sufferers who need to sit on the side of their bed to get up or down.
The standard firmness options are Soft, Luxury Firm and Firm, but there’s also the WinkBed Plus aimed at sleepers weighing over 300lbs. This mattress is designed slightly differently, with anti-sag foam and a latex support layer to keep heavier bodies supported.
The WinkBed is never sold at full MSRP, and an evergreen discount knocks $300 off the price, taking the mattress down to $1,499 (MSRP $1,799) for a queen size. Do note though that the WinkBed Plus will cost you $1,699.
What our testers like about it...
What we like about it...
✅ Built to suit any body: Whether you're petite, plus size, or in between, there's a WinkBed that suits your build and desired level of firmness. Our testing panel says the Luxury Firm WinkBed should be comfortable for most people, but with four comfort levels to choose from, you won't have to compromise.
✅ All-over support and relief: All WinkBed models feature zoned support coils and specialty LumbarLayer foam to promote the spine's natural curve while relieving pressure from your joints. Our testing panel and WinkBed customers reported waking up without stiffness or severe discomfort when sleeping on this mattress.
✅ Super strong edges: The perimeter of the WinkBed has reinforced springs so you can sit comfortably when getting up or down, or take up as much of the sleep surface as possible without fear of falling overboard. This design also helps prevent premature sagging.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Lacks a luxe finish: The WinkBed is a bed-in-a-box. This is convenient for shipping but potentially diminishes its handcrafted design. The Saatva Classic is pricier, but it's delivered flat and feels more like a premium bed. We'd also argue that the DreamCloud (#6), a considerably cheaper bed-in-a-box, seems more luxe.
❌ Not for the hottest sleepers: Our testing panel slept temperature-neutral on the WinkBed, but very hot sleepers may not find the triple heat disperse technology powerful enough. For severe overheating, we recommend the Aurora Luxe (#3).
The WinkBed: Expert Verdict
WinkBeds targeted back support gets my vote as a lower back pain sufferer. I love the way that the mattress has been specifically designed to offer maximum lumbar support and the choice of four firmness options, including a mattress specifically designed for heavier sleepers means that the WinkBed should appeal to everyone, not just those looking for a firm mattress.
- Learn more: The WinkBed mattress review
Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
Support and comfort | Choose from four firmness levels, including one specially designed for plus-sized bodies. | ★★★★½ |
Pressure relief | The WinkBed has a keen balance of support and pressure relief that many achy sleepers praise. | ★★★★½ |
Temperature control | Most people will find the WinkBed sleeps temperature-neutral. | ★★★★ |
Motion isolation | The WinkBed absorbed most movements with ease during our tests, but that could vary for the latex-based WinkBed Plus. | ★★★★½ |
Edge support | Our panelists could lay against and sit on the edge of our test model without fear of falling over. | ★★★★½ |
Build quality | It's a shame that this handcrafted bed is shoved in a box, but our review model was otherwise up to par. | ★★★★ |
6. The best firm cooling mattress
Hot sleepers need a mattress that will help regulate their temperature throughout the night. For those looking for a cooling firm mattress, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is our choice. Combining a GlacioTex cooling cover with copper-infused foam and individually encased coils for airflow, the Aurora Luxe kept even our warmest testers cool while they slept.
You’ll again find customizable firmness options with this mattress (soft, medium, firm). We’d recommend the firm option for those looking for the most support. The optional Cloud Pillow-Top adds an undulating feel that doesn’t drastically alter the level of support, but do be warned that motion isolation is fairly poor.
Evergreen discounts mean you’ll always find 25% off the mattress, rising to 30% during major sales events. The 25% discount takes a queen size down to $1,398.75 (MSRP $1,865) without the optional Cloud Pillow-Top. You’ll also get a 120-night trial, lifetime warranty, and free shipping to your door.
What our testers like about it...
✅ Cooling comfort for hot sleepers: The GlacioTex cover feels soothing and effectively draws heat away from your body. Combined with the airflow from the support coils and the well-constructed foams, our testers remained comfortably cool and dry.
✅ Luxe pillow-top adds contouring: If you want to add a touch of cushioning to an otherwise firm mattress, the optional Cloud Pillow-Top will give it an undulating feel without dramatically altering the level of support. It'll cost a few hundred dollars extra but we think it's worth the splurge.
✅ Enjoy a wider size selection: In addition to traditional dimensions, the Aurora Luxe comes in RV king, RV bunk, short queen, and split California king. This makes it a great choice for leveling up your road trip accommodations or fitting into a bedroom with an unusual layout.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Motion isolation is weak: Unfortunately, our objective and real-world tests showed that most movements reverberated across the sleep surface, regardless of whether or not there was a pillow-top. We'd sooner recommend the Aurora Luxe for solo sleepers.
❌ The surface is a little too slick: GlacioTex material is slippery, which made it tricky for us to keep a fitted sheet in place. (It's also a common complaint among Brooklyn Bedding customers.) Keep this in mind if you're sensitive to textures.
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe: Expert Review
Although I'm not a hot sleeper myself, I do share my bed with one and know only too well how irritating it can be to overheat in bed. The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is my pick of firm mattresses for hot sleepers thanks to its incredibly effective GlacioTex cooling cover that combines with copper infused foam and well-spaced coils to draw heat away from the body.
- Learn more: Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress review
Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
Support and comfort | No matter the firmness level you choose, you'll strike the ideal balance of support and sinkage. | ★★★★½ |
Pressure relief | With or without the pillow-top, our key pressure points weren't triggered at all. | ★★★★½ |
Temperature control | Our testers thought the Aurora Luxe's cooling features worked very effectively to prevent overheating. | ★★★★ |
Motion isolation | If you’re a sensitive sleeper with a restless bedfellow, give this one a pass. | ★★ |
Edge support | Solid edge support all-around, even with the pillow-top. | ★★★★ |
Build quality | The mattress is robust and well-designed with high quality materials. | ★★★★½ |
7. The best firm mattress for side sleepers
The Helix Twilight is an unusual mattress — it’s a firm bed designed specifically for side sleepers. We’d normally recommend a softer mattress for those who sleep on their side, but Helix somehow manages to offer firm support whilst still cushioning the pressure points at the shoulders, hips, and knees.
Using a combination of memory foam, contouring foams, and supportive steel coils, the Helix Twilight should be the top choice for those side sleepers who prefer a firmer mattress. Do be warned that this mattress really won’t suit back or stomach sleepers — despite the firmer surface, it's truly a mattress for side sleepers.
Motion isolation and temperature regulation is also excellent, and edge support along the side support is exceptionally sturdy. However, if we were nit picking, support along the head and foot of the mattress could be better (this is only a real issue if you like to sit at the bottom of your bed.)
Evergreen discounts range from 20-25% off, occasionally rising to 30% for major holidays during Helix mattress sales. Benefits include a 100-night trial, lifetime warranty and free shipping to your door – you can also pay extra to upgrade to white glove delivery.
What our testers like about it...
✅ Specifically designed for side sleepers: It may be a firm mattress but the Helix Twilight has been specifically designed to suit side sleepers, offering plenty of support but also cushioning where it's needed.
✅ Excellent pressure relief: Despite its firmer feel, the Helix Twilight offers contouring around the shoulders, hips and knees to keep side sleepers comfortable all night.
✅ Great motion isolation: The Twilight is an excellent choice for those sharing their bed with a restless sleeper, with virtually no motion transfer at all.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Not great for other sleeping positions: It might be a fantastic option for side sleepers but the Helix Twilight didn't suit our testers who slept on their back or stomach in the main.
❌ Inconsistent edge support: The edge support lengthways may be excellent, but it's woefully lacking on the head and foot ends of the bed, meaning you can't sit at the end of the bed comfortably.
Helix Twilight: Expert Verdict
I slept on the Helix Twilight for a month and was impressed by how well the mattress supported side sleepers. Managing to both be firm enough for lumbar support, but soft enough to cushion pressure points, this is the only firm mattress really suited to those who sleep on their side. Do avoid it if you sleep in any other position though - there are better options out there.
- Learn more: Helix Twilight mattress review
8. The best firm organic mattress
We consider the Avocado Green the best organic mattress you can buy right now. Offering firm support, the mattress is made up of dense Dunlop latex, organic wool and cotton and zoned pocketed coils to offer a balanced and comfortable night’s sleep.
The firm support means that the Avocado is particularly suited to back and stomach sleepers, but we found it too firm for side sleeping at all. (Upgrading to a box top or pillow top will make it more plush.)
Apart from this, the mattress is a bonafide all-rounder, offering excellent temperature regulation thanks to its naturally breathable materials, along with outstanding edge support and motion isolation.
Avocado Green mattress sales do happen but they’re not as ubiquitous or as generous as many other brands. At full MSRP a queen-size mattress is $1,999, and you’ll sometimes see 10 to 15% off. You’ll also get a 365-night trial, 25-year warranty and free shipping.
What our testers like about it...
✅ Comfortably firm for back sleeping: Our side-sleeping lead tester was able to transition to back sleeping because of the Avocado Green's zoned coils and Dunlop latex comfort layer. She also found it suitable for stomach sleeping.
✅ Supportive for heavy bodies: It may not have the highest weight capacity on this list, but the construction of the Avocado Green can withstand up to 700lbs. Larger sleepers won't have to worry about sinking in too deeply.
✅ Good for the environment: Avocado's focus on safety and sustainability has culminated in certifications from GOLS, GOTS, FSC, OEKO-TEX, Made Safe, and Greenguard.
What our testers don't like about it...
❌ Upgrades are expensive: If you're a combi side/back sleeper, the Avocado Mattress won't be contouring enough. Upgrading to a box-top or pillow-top will make it softer but that'll double the cost of this premium mattress. We suggest the DreamCloud (#3) if you're a combi side/back sleeper.
❌ Setup could be a hassle: Avocado offers White Glove Delivery but it's at least $249 extra. Shipping is free otherwise, but setup is a two-person job. By comparison, the Saatva Classic (#4) comes with free in-home delivery and mattress removal.
Avocado Green: Expert Verdict
I love the eco credentials of the Avocado Green, but I'm also impressed by the quality and support of the mattress. If you're looking for durability, latex is always a great option and the Avocado Green also offers fantastic pressure relief for back and stomach sleepers. It's also full of naturally breathable materials and offers excellent motion isolation and edge support.
- Learn more: Avocado Green mattress review
Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
Support and comfort | The Dunlop latex comfort layer has minimal give but doesn't sink. It provides great neck and back support. | ★★★★½ |
Pressure relief | Sufficient for back and front sleeping; less forgiving for side sleeping. | ★★★★ |
Temperature control | Our lead tester is prone to overheating but found the Avocado breathable and comfortable. | ★★★★★ |
Motion isolation | Minimal motion transfer means you and your partner are unlikely to disturb each other. | ★★★★½ |
Edge support | The fully reinforced steel perimeter makes for stable edges. Our testers didn't fear falling overboard. | ★★★★★ |
Build quality | This organic bed handcrafted in Los Angeles to a very high standard, but there have been reports of noticeable impressions from some Avocado shoppers. | ★★★★ |
How we test the best firm mattress
Every single mattress included in this guide has been slept on, tested and then reviewed by our trusted testing panel. This means our top firm mattress picks have been picked using an editorially independent review process that’s completely uninfluenced by third parties.
Our review process is in line with our mattress methodology. When we receive a mattress, we immediately take notes about the delivery, unboxing, set-up, expansion time and any off-gassing experienced.
We sleep on the bed for a minimum of three weeks to allow our bodies to adjust to the mattress. Most brands don't accept returns until after you've had at least 30 days to sleep on your mattress.
We also measure performance in five key areas: pressure relief, temperature regulation, support, comfort, and motion isolation. Our panel of testers varies in preferred sleep position, sleep requirements, and body size so we can best gauge who a specific mattress will suit.
Finally we also scour verified customer reviews and ratings to find information on durability from long-term users, alongside information from customers who have a sleep requirement not shared by any of our testers. This allows us to gain a broader perspective on each mattress.
Firm mattress buying advice from our experts
When is the best time to buy a firm mattress?
The best time to buy a firm mattress is during the major sales events throughout the year, such as Black Friday and Prime Day, or during federal holidays such as Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Usually, the Black Friday mattress sales in November and the following Cyber Monday mattress sales are the best times to buy a firm mattress at its lowest price. However, we are now seeing price-rivalling deals arrive during the Presidents' Day mattress sales in February, the Memorial Day mattress sales in May, and the Labor Day mattress sales in September, too.
In general, summertime is the worst period to buy a firm mattress (there are no major holiday sales and mattress manufacturers tend to increase prices at this time). However, we have seen some great deals during the 4th of July mattress sales and the Amazon Prime Day deals in July.
What to consider when buying a firm mattress
As we all know, one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to mattresses. Even if you have decided on a firm mattress, the one that’s best for you won’t be the right choice for everyone else. So, before you part with your cash, make sure you’ve taken the following factors into consideration:
Firmness: We consider a firm mattress to be rated 8-9 out of 10, while an extra firm mattress is a 10 out of 10. In general these mattresses are best suited to back and stomach sleepers, along with those of a heavier build.
Those with lower back pain may also benefit from a firm mattress that provides plenty of lumbar support — but not always.
Height: When deciding how thick your mattress should be, you need to consider your sleep style, body weight, and requirements.
For example, most adults and sleep styles should find firm mattresses with a height between 8" to 12" comfortable and supportive. But heavier weight adults over 250lbs, couples, and some side sleepers will need something deeper (around 12" to 16") for extra support and comfort.
If you have mobility issues however, you may find a lower profile mattress makes it easier to get in and out of bed.
Weight capacity: The bonus of some firm mattresses is that they’re designed to accommodate heavier bodies, but if you weigh over 250lbs, you’ll need to be sure that your mattress will support your weight. The Plank Firm that tops our list has a combined 950lb weight capacity.
Price and deals: Many of the best firm mattresses use a hybrid design of coils and foams, bringing them into the upper mid-range or premium price bracket.
Our hybrid picks range from $699 to over $2,000 with the average sale price of a queen hybrid at $1,250. However, we do also have all-foam options, which range from $359 to $999.
The key factor to consider here is your budget. Spend as much as you (comfortably) can afford on a new mattress, but don’t just be taken in by a good sale price or offer. Instead, read our reviews above to see which firm mattress will suit you best and the time your mattress shopping around the major sales events dotted throughout the year.
Trials and warranties: Buying a mattress online means that you can’t try the bed out before you buy it. For this reason, mattress brands offer trial periods where you can test the mattress out at home.
Some brands, such as Saatva and DreamCloud, offer a full year’s sleep trial along with a lifetime warranty on their mattresses, giving plenty of time to try out a new firm bed. However, we find that a 100-night trial and 10-year warranty is plenty for the vast majority of mattresses. In the case of a warranty, most mattresses will need to be replaced by the 10-year mark.
Who should buy a firm mattress?
Wondering if a firm mattress is right for you? Dr. Grant Radermacher, owner of Ascent Chiropractic in Brookfield, WI, recommends a firm mattress for the following cases:
1. People with joint-related back pain
According to Dr. Radermacher, "A firm mattress provides the support your spine needs to maintain proper alignment, which can help reduce pressure points on your lower back and alleviate spinal facet and/or sacroiliac pain." Learn more about the best type of mattress for back pain.
2. Back and stomach sleepers
Dr. Radermacher says that for back and stomach sleepers, "a firmer mattress can help support the natural lordotic (forward) curve of your lower back, keeping excess stress off some of the more sensitive structures in your spine." Strict side sleepers should seek a medium-soft mattress that'll better contour the hips and shoulders – check out the best mattresses for side sleepers, or read more about what happens to your body when you sleep on your back, on your stomach, or on your side.
3. Overweight or obese individuals
"For those on the heavier side, a firm mattress can help distribute their body weight more evenly across the mattress, minimizing stress on the joints in the spine and pelvis and resisting mattress sagging over time," says Dr. Radermacher.
Best firm mattress FAQs
Do firm mattresses last longer?
Firmer mattresses can benefit both your back and your bank balance, as they tend to last longer than softer beds.
Since a firm mattress is designed to keep the sleeper laying on top of the mattress, this actually protects the integrity of your mattress, helping it last longer. However, as with all mattresses, your weight, sleep position and how well you look after it will determine how many years you'll be able to get out of it.
Remember that all mattresses will soften and sag over time. The average lifespan of a mattress is eight years, but this varies according to build quality and the materials used to make it.
Are firm mattresses good for side sleepers?
Side sleepers need a mattress that won't trigger the pressure points in their shoulders, hips, and knees. In most cases, firm mattresses are discouraged for side sleeping as they don't offer enough contouring.
However, there are exceptions. The Helix Twilight is a firm mattress made specifically for side sleepers — and we think it hits the target on that. The DreamCloud is another firm mattress that's not lacking in pressure relief, which can benefit side sleepers who don't want a super-soft bed.
The amount of pressure you put on your sleep surface through your body weight will influence how soft or firm your mattress should be.
If you weigh less than 130lbs, a firm mattress is unlikely to give you the amount of relief you need to sleep comfortably. On the other hand, side sleepers who weigh over 230lbs might find a firm mattress provides the balance of comfort and support they need. For those in between these weight ranges, a medium to medium-firm bed could work best.
If you're mattress shopping but don't know where to begin, knowing how to choose a mattress for your sleep position will help you narrow down the field.
Is a firm mattress good for back pain?
Medical experts agree that a firm mattress isn’t always the best choice for back pain.
Sleepers who weigh under 130lbs and strict side sleepers of any size may not get the proper amount of support and cushioning needed unless they’re sleeping on a firm mattress specifically designed for side sleepers. In general, these sleepers might prefer a medium-firm mattress that offers more cushioning and padding where needed.
By contrast, heavier sleepers will love the firmer support on offer as it will stop them from sinking too far into the mattress. Likewise, stomach sleepers need a firm mattress to keep their hips lifted and their spines aligned — although this position usually isn't recommended for back pain.
We’d also recommend a firm mattress to those with lower back pain, whatever their body weight, as the support around the lumbar region will help keep their spine aligned and prevent pain from building up. Mattress firmness and comfort are subjective, so the bed has to be the right fit for you.
While a firm mattress for back pain could help you sleep better, it's important to address the root cause and consider other lifestyle changes. Talk to your primary care physician or another licensed medical professional to address particular sleep or health concerns.
