How can I make my sagging mattress firmer?

You can make your sagging mattress feel firmer by replacing or adding a foundation. The extra support can not only prevent your mattress from sinking – it also adds support! Check out our list of the best ways to fix a sagging mattress for more information.

How To Make a Mattress Firm | Mattress Clarity

Written by Tyla Oliver, Sleep Health Writer

Methodology

Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches examined the latest peer-reviewed research in order to relay the most accurate sleep health information.

A good night’s sleep is a cornerstone of our overall well-being, and the foundation of that sleep lies in the comfort and support provided by our mattresses. While some individuals prefer the plush embrace of a softer mattress, others find solace in the sturdy support of a firmer one. Fortunately, you don’t have to rush out to buy a new mattress if your current bed feels too soft.

In this guide, I’ll explain how you can make your current mattress feel firmer and more supportive.

Who Is a Firm Mattress Best For?

When it comes to firm vs soft mattresses, you’ll find that firm mattresses are best suited to stomach sleepers, some back sleepers, larger individuals, hot sleepers and some people with mobility issues.

If you think a firm mattress might be for you, check out some of the best extra-firm mattresses.

How To Make a Mattress Firmer

If you are hoping to make your mattress a little firmer than it currently is, you have a couple of options:

Flip Your Mattress

Flipping your mattress can make it feel firmer as it ensures an even distribution of filling. But be sure to read the care instructions of your mattress beforehand, as many modern mattresses weren’t actually designed to be flipped.

Flipping The Layla Mattress — Flipping a mattress in our sleep lab

If that is the case for your mattress, you can rotate your mattress on a regular basis instead.

Replace Worn Out Layers

Some mattresses, like the Brooklyn Bedding custom, have replaceable comfort layers that allow sleepers to adjust the firmness of the bed. If you find that your bed feels too soft, you might be able to reach out to the manufacturer and request a replacement layer. This isn’t particularly common, so make sure to read the company policies before trying.

Add a Mattress Topper

Most mattress toppers make beds feel softer, but there are few firm mattress toppers that offer extra support. They can be particularly helpful for stomach sleepers who don’t want to purchase a new mattress right away.

The Best Latex Mattress Toppers Featured Image

Replace Box Spring or Foundation

If your box spring is worn out, or your foundation is sagging, your bed might feel too soft. By replacing these items, you could get an extra boost of support for a fraction of the cost of buying a new mattress.

Adjust the Thermostat

Memory foam is temperature sensitive. It feels firmer in cold environments and softer in hot environments. If you sleep on a foam mattress and prefer to keep the room warm, your bed might feel too soft. Try adjusting the thermostat for a few days to see if it changes the way your mattress feels.

Air It Out

Mattresses grow softer as they absorb moisture. While you may not be able to completely reverse this process, you can slow it down by regularly airing out your mattress in the sun. This not only makes your mattress feel a bit more supportive, it also kills bacteria, mildew, and viruses!

Add Plywood Support

If your foundation or base is sagging and you don’t want to buy a new one, adding a piece of plywood underneath your mattress will give it extra support. Giving your mattress this firm and even base could make your mattress feel a whole lot firmer and more supportive.

Move Mattress To The Floor

Another solution to a sagging base or bed foundation is to move your mattress onto the floor. This will ensure you have an even playing field and the firm foundation you need.

A mattress with sheets on the floor of a bedroom

It’s important to note that there are some dangers to putting your mattress on the floor, as it can contribute to mold and mildew. If you take this route, make sure to air it out regularly.

The Best Firm Mattresses

When it comes to firm mattresses, there are many to choose from. These are our personal favorites:

Saatva

Saatva sells many several types of firm mattresses. The Saatva Classic has a bouncy innerspring feel, and the Firm model is great for stomach sleepers. If you’re a heavyweight person, you may want to consider getting the Saatva HD mattress. This bed is particularly supportive and shouldn’t sag as time goes on. No matter which Saatva mattress you choose, you can enjoy free white glove delivery.

Saatva Mattress

The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.3/5

Read Saatva Mattress Review

CHECK PRICE

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Material

Innerspring

Trial Period

365 nights

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers

If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.

Seniors

This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.

Back Pain

This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.

Back Sleeping

Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.

Stomach Sleeping

Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

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