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Finding a good mattress with the right firmness can be challenging, especially online. Nolah, Tuft & Needle, and DreamCloud all make our list of best medium-firm mattresses.
Comfort is key when choosing a new mattress, and that means finding the right level of firmness.
The firmness of a mattress doesn’t refer to its level of support. Instead, mattress firmness refers to the top layer of the mattress — it’s what you feel when you lie down.
If you want a mattress that balances cushioning comfort and the support you need for a good night’s sleep, a medium-firm mattress may be a good choice. We rounded up 10 of the best options to help you get started.
We chose mattresses rated medium firm by each brand. To narrow the list, we considered:
Safety and brand reputation: All the medium-firm mattresses on our list comply with federal flammability standards and are made by reputable companies that stand by their products.
Materials certifications: We prioritized mattresses with third-party material certifications like CertiPUR-US, GOLS, and GOTS.
Free trials and warranties: Each mattress on our list comes with a free in-home trial and competitive warranty.
Customer reviews: We read reviews for each mattress to see what customers say about them.
What does reputable mean exactly?
When we describe a mattress company as reputable, we mean the brand:
displays a commitment to quality, safety, and customer service
hasn’t been involved in recent lawsuits
has transparent business practices
Knowing a company is doing things the right way, especially for a big-ticket purchase like a mattress can make a difference.
Many people prefer medium-firm mattresses because they offer a combination of comfort and support. But this firmness can have other benefits, too. Some evidence suggests that medium-firm mattresses can improve sleep comfort and quality.
Other research suggests self-adjusted, medium-firm mattresses may help improve comfort and the quality of your sleep if you live with back pain.
Medium-firm mattresses can also be a good choice if your preferred sleeping position varies. They’ll give you the support and cushion you need as you move from your side to your back to your belly.
Medium-firm mattresses work well for people with low to moderate body weights. They’re also a good compromise if you share your bed with someone who prefers a firmer sleeping surface than you do (or vice versa).
If you’re searching for a medium-firm option, it helps to keep a few things in mind:
Mattress ratings: They will vary from brand to brand, but they can offer a good starting point. Opt for a mattress in the range of 5–7 on the scale.
Mattress type and materials: You can find medium-firm mattresses lots of different materials, including latex and memory foam. Make a point of shopping for mattresses with materials that have third-party certifications. That way, you’ll know the company has met stringent quality standards for safety.
In-home trials and warranties: Most firmness scales are different by brand. But, in general 1 is typically the softest, while 10 is the firmest. Medium-firm mattresses typically fall between a 5 and 7. Remember that one brand’s 5 may feel different from another brand’s, so it’s important to consider one with a generous in-home trial and easy returns or exchanges. Also, look for a brand that offers a warranty.
If upgrading your mattress isn’t an option at the moment, you still have other ways to make your bed more comfortable. Think new pillows, sheets, and comforters; a supportive mattress topper; or bedroom ambiance.
Medium-firm mattresses are designed to have a softer, more cushiony feel than firm mattresses, which are usually around an 8 on the firmness scale.
Soft mattresses, typically between 2 and 3 on the scale, tend to compress faster and more easily than medium-firm mattresses when you lie down. You’ll notice more of a “sinking in” sensation, too.
Research from 2022 suggests that self-adjusted, medium-firm mattresses can help improve sleep quality in people with back pain.
Medium-firm mattresses can accommodate a wide range of sleepers. They’re supportive and cushioning enough for most sleeping positions, particularly for people who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds.
People under 130 pounds may find softer mattresses more comfortable.
Sleepers with more body weight may want to consider mattresses specifically designed for long-term comfort and quality to get better rest.
Medium-firm mattresses can also be a good choice if you need to compromise with a partner who has a different opinion of comfort. They may also be beneficial for people with back pain.
No. Remember, firmness refers to how a mattress feels when you lie down on it. Things like body weight and preferred sleeping position will affect how a mattress feels to you, and it could be quite different from what someone else is feeling, even if they’re right next to you!
There’s no single best medium-firm mattress because everyone has unique sleeping preferences and needs. Some sleepers prefer the balanced feel of a hybrid mattress, while others enjoy the plush feel of a pillow top.
Some sleepers need a mattress to relieve back pain, while others want one that will work nicely on an adjustable frame.
Being clear about your personal wants and needs can help you find the best medium-firmness mattress for you.
The Nolah Evolution is a medium-firm hybrid mattress with a 4.9-star rating based on customer feedback.
While firmness ratings vary from one mattress manufacturer to the next, most medium-firm mattresses fall between 5 and 7.
Medium-firm mattresses are a popular choice for a reason. Designed to provide plenty of support and a comforting feel, they work well for people with low to moderate body weight, those who switch positions during the night, or people who share their bed with a partner.
How we reviewed this article:
Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
