How to Make a Mattress Firmer?

A good night’s sleep is essential for our overall well-being, and the foundation of that sleep lies in the comfort and support provided by our mattress. While some people prefer the plush embrace of a softer mattress, others may prefer the sturdy support of a firmer one. Fortunately, if your mattress feels too soft, you don’t need to rush out to buy a new one just yet. There are several methods you can try to make your mattress firmer and more supportive.

Who Is a Firm Mattress Best For?

Firm mattresses are generally best for:

• Stomach sleepers who need extra support to prevent their spine from sinking.
• Back sleepers, especially those who have larger bodies, as they benefit from more support.
• Larger individuals who need a mattress that can support their weight without sagging.
• Hot sleepers, since firmer mattresses often retain less heat.
• People with mobility issues may benefit from firmer mattresses as they provide more stability.

If you’re unsure about which mattress firmness is best for you, it’s helpful to consider your sleep style and personal preference. In general, a firmer mattress provides better support and helps with spinal alignment.

How to Make a Mattress Firmer

If your mattress feels too soft and you want to make it firmer, here are several tips and tricks you can try:

Step 1: Use a Mattress Topper

The easiest and quickest solution to firming up your mattress is to invest in a firm mattress topper. Toppers come in various materials like memory foam, latex, or hybrid options, and they offer an additional layer of firmness and support.

You can choose a firmer topper specifically designed to enhance mattress support, especially if you are a stomach sleeper. This method gives your mattress an immediate firmness boost without needing to replace the entire bed.

Step 2: Add Plywood Between the Mattress and the Bed Frame

If your mattress feels soft, adding a piece of plywood or MDF board underneath it can provide additional support. This is especially effective if your bed frame or foundation is not providing even support. The solid base helps distribute your weight evenly and keeps the mattress from sagging.

Step 3: Swap It for a Firmer Mattress

If your mattress has a sleep trial or warranty, check if you can exchange it for a firmer model. If you've recently purchased a softer mattress and find it's too soft for your liking, swapping it for a firmer version may be a viable option.

Additionally, consider the age of your mattress. If it's over seven years old, it may have lost its firmness naturally, and it might be time for an upgrade.

Step 4: Replace the Box Spring or Foundation

A worn-out or sagging box spring or foundation could be contributing to the softness of your mattress. Replacing it with a solid platform base or foundation will provide firmer support and prevent further sagging. A solid base will work better than a spring box spring, especially if you want a firmer mattress feel.

Step 5: Invest in a New Bed Frame or Slats

The slats on your bed frame may be worn out or spaced too far apart, which can result in an uneven, softer feel for your mattress. If you have slats that are flexible or sag, replace them with solid slats that provide a firmer, more supportive base.

Step 6: Flip or Rotate Your Mattress Regularly

Flipping or rotating your mattress can help keep the fillings evenly distributed and prevent sagging in specific areas. However, check if your mattress is designed to be flipped; many modern mattresses are not designed for flipping, so rotating it regularly is a better alternative.

Step 7: Keep Your Bedding Flat

A quick and easy trick to make your mattress feel firmer is to keep your bedding tightly stretched across it. Pull your sheets tight over the mattress to increase pressure and make it feel more supportive. This method can be especially effective if you use freshly washed bedding, as loose sheets can make the mattress feel softer.

Step 8: Air the Mattress Out

Moisture can soften a mattress over time, particularly if you live in a humid environment. To maintain firmness, regularly air out your mattress by removing the bedding and allowing it to breathe. If possible, place it near a window to let the air circulate. This will reduce moisture buildup and help the mattress stay firmer longer.

Step 9: Alter Your Room Temperature

Certain mattresses, especially memory foam, are sensitive to temperature. Warm temperatures can cause memory foam to soften, making the mattress feel less firm. To counteract this, keep your room cooler, as a lower temperature will make the mattress feel firmer.

Step 10: If All Else Fails, Buy a New Mattress

If you've tried all the above methods and your mattress is still too soft, it may be time to invest in a new, firmer mattress. As mattresses age, they naturally lose firmness. When this happens, replacing it with a firmer mattress designed to support your sleeping style and preferences might be the best long-term solution.

Conclusion

A firm mattress is crucial for spinal alignment and overall sleep quality. If your mattress is too soft, there are several methods to make it firmer without the need for a costly replacement. Whether it's adding a firm mattress topper, adjusting your bed frame, or rotating your mattress, you can take steps to improve support and comfort.

If your mattress is past its prime, or none of these tips seem to work, consider shopping for a new mattress that suits your firmness preferences. Remember, a mattress that aligns with your body’s needs will provide better sleep and long-term health benefits.

For more information on finding the perfect mattress or upgrading your current one, explore our comprehensive mattress guides and options.