With its balance of cushioning and support, a medium firm mattress is often considered the “Goldilocks” firmness level. A mattress that is too soft may not promote proper spinal alignment, especially if you sleep on your stomach or back. On the other hand, a very firm mattress might not offer enough pressure relief to be comfortable. A medium firm mattress is often the solution, as its moderate feel works with different body types and sleep styles.
We discuss important factors like body weight and sleep position when it comes to choosing a suitable firmness level. While a medium firm mattress is very versatile, it is typically best suited for sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.
After considerable research and testing, our team of sleep specialists came up with a list of choice medium firm models that can accommodate a variety of sleepers. We also break down important performance features so you can decide what to prioritize when mattress shopping.
Sleep Doctor’s Picks
Best Overall
DreamCloud Premier
Sleep Doctor
5
Amazon
4.3
Details
Trial Length 365 nights (30-night requirement)
Warranty Lifetime, limited
Trial Length / Warranty
365 nights (30-night requirement) / Lifetime, limited
Type Hybrid
Firmness Medium Firm (6)
Price $999 – $1,899
Sleep Doctor’s Take
The DreamCloud Premier is a high-profile foam hybrid that strikes a balance between cushioning and support. Our testers found the adaptive foam comfort system effective at reducing joint pain, while the coil system kept their bodies on an even plane.
Highlights
- Plush Euro-top for extra pressure relief
- Sturdy coils provide great overall support
- 365-night sleep trial
Drawbacks
- Sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds may find the mattress too soft
- The plush Euro-top may restrict movement on the surface
As a hybrid model, the DreamCloud Premier combines a thick comfort system with a pocketed coil support core. The mattress performs solidly across all categories, and its balanced medium firm (6) feel is suitable for most sleep styles. The six layers add up to 14 inches, making the Premier taller than average.
A soft and breathable cashmere-blend cover is designed to keep the surface temperature neutral. Plush memory foam is quilted into the cover, forming a Euro-top that gently cradles the body. A thick layer of body-contouring memory foam provides additional pressure relief. Gel infusions are engineered to dissipate excess heat as the foam conforms to the sleeper. A transitional layer of polyfoam supports spinal alignment while minimizing motion transfer.
The support core uses sturdy steel coils to balance stability with bounce. Each coil is individually wrapped in order to increase breathability and help sleepers stay cooler. Thicker coils along the perimeter enhance edge support so there is more usable surface area. A final layer of dense polyfoam stabilizes the upper layers while also absorbing motion.
DreamCloud offers free shipping and returns for customers in the contiguous U.S. The Premier is backed by a lifetime warranty and a lengthy 365-night sleep trial.
The DreamCloud Premier is the best of both worlds for sleepers, even by medium firm mattress standards. A luxurious Euro-top design, pressure-relieving foams, sturdy coils, and cooling components highlight this standout hybrid model.
Best Value
Silk & Snow Hybrid
Sleep Doctor
4.8
Details
Trial Length 100 nights (30-night requirement)
Warranty 15 Year, Limited
Trial Length / Warranty
100 nights (30-night requirement) / 15 Year, Limited
Type Hybrid
Firmness Medium Firm (6)
Price $600 – $900
Sleep Doctor’s Take
The Silk & Snow is a quintessential hybrid with a balanced feel and premium features at an affordable price-point. One stand-out feature our testers enjoyed was the zoned polyfoam and coils. This zoning prevented their midsections from sinking too deeply into the mattress and straining the lower back.
Highlights
- Excellent breathability and temperature control
- Standout edge support
- Zoned transitional and support layers for targeted pressure relief
Drawbacks
- Stomach sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds may find they sink too deeply into the mattress
- The responsive coils may transfer more movement from a restless sleep partner
Luxury performance without premium pricing defines the Silk & Snow Hybrid, an excellent choice for shoppers on a budget. The mattress combines pressure relief with responsiveness, so sleepers shouldn’t feel trapped inside the adaptive comfort system. Various cooling technologies are used to minimize heat retention, giving the mattress above-average temperature control.
An inch of quilted polyfoam gives the surface a plush feel without causing too much sinkage. Below is a 2-inch layer of dense memory foam that cradles the body to alleviate pressure points. Both foam layers contain gel infusions that are intended to wick away heat and moisture. A layer of zoned polyfoam gives targeted support to the back region for better sleep posture.
Pocketed coils form the support core, giving the mattress bounce and durability. The encased springs limit motion transfer, resulting in a quieter bed for individuals and couples alike. A zoned configuration provides greater support to the hips and lumbar region, while the shoulders and legs are allowed more give. The perimeter is reinforced with sturdier coils for increased edge support.
All six layers total 12 inches, and the medium firm feel registers as a 6 on the 10-point firmness scale. The Silk & Snow Hybrid comes with a 100-night sleep trial and a 15-year warranty. Shipping is free for residents of the contiguous U.S.
The Silk & Snow Hybrid shows a high-quality mattress can also be affordable. Thoughtful details to enhance your sleep experience include adaptive memory foam to cushion the surface and zoning throughout the transitional and coil layers.
Most Comfortable
Saatva Classic
Sleep Doctor
4.8
Details
Trial Length 365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Warranty Lifetime, Limited
Trial Length / Warranty
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee) / Lifetime, Limited
Type Innerspring
Firmness Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price $995 – $2,710
Sleep Doctor’s Take
The Saatva Classic is a high-end innerspring with thoughtful construction to match. A plush Euro-top and pocketed minicoils prevent pressure buildup in sore spots, while a lumbar pad and coil system keep the body on an even plane. This balanced feel was comfortable for many of our testers.
Highlights
- Available in two heights and three firmness levels
- Plush Euro-top cradles the body
- Zoned lumbar pad gives the lower back extra support
Drawbacks
- The coil-on-coil design may cause more motion transfer and noise
- Sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds may need more cushioning
Using premium materials and quality craftsmanship, the Saatva Classic delivers both comfort and support. The mattress is available in two heights, 11.5 or 14.5 inches. Shoppers can also choose from three different feels: Plush Soft (3), Luxury Firm (6), and Firm (8). The Luxury Firm corresponds to a medium firm feel and performs well for diverse sleep styles, earning this design a spot on our top picks list.
The mattress is covered in soft and breathable organic cotton that naturally wicks away heat and moisture. Polyfoam is sewn directly into the cover, forming a plush Euro-top that gently cushions pressure points. The cover features Guardin, a botanical-based treatment developed to resist bacterial overgrowth.
Next is a layer of memory foam with a proprietary lumbar wire. The technology is engineered to promote good spinal alignment and reduce aches and pains the next morning. A 4-inch layer of pocketed microcoils delivers targeted contouring while allowing air to circulate. The individually wrapped coils also curb motion transfer, so movement is less likely to travel across the mattress’ surface.
The support core uses heavier gauge hourglass coils to increase the mattress’ durability and responsiveness. Like the microcoils, each spring is encased to improve motion isolation. The double-coil construction helps prevent deep surface impressions from developing. High-density polyfoam lines the perimeter for extra edge support. Both heights use the same construction except that the 14.5-inch version uses a thicker layer of coils.
Saatva offers free White Glove delivery for customers in the contiguous U.S. This service includes professional installation and old mattress removal. The Classic is backed by a 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty. In the event of a return, customers are responsible for a $99 return shipping fee.
The Luxury Firm Saatva Classic combines the coil strength of classic innersprings with the adaptive, pressure-relieving surface of a newer hybrid model. The result is a balanced mattress that cushions the body and maintains even support.
Best Luxury
Helix Twilight Luxe
Sleep Doctor
4.6
Details
Trial Length 100 nights (30-night requirement)
Warranty 15 Year, Limited
Trial Length / Warranty
100 nights (30-night requirement) / 15 Year, Limited
Type Hybrid
Firmness Firm (7)
Price $1,099 – $2,349
Sleep Doctor’s Take
Euro-top hybrids we test often have a luxurious feel, and the Helix Twilight Luxe is no exception. The combination of a firmer feel, pocketed coils, and thicker foam layers make the Twilight Luxe supportive enough for back and stomach sleepers with slight cushioning for pressure points.
Highlights
- Luxurious Euro-top surface
- Moisture-wicking Tencel cover
- Zoned lumbar coil system for better spine alignment
Drawbacks
- The mattress may feel too firm for some side sleepers
- Hot sleepers may find the foam layers retain too much heat.
The Helix Twilight Luxe is a hybrid design that blends thick memory foam comfort layers with a robust coil core. The mattress corresponds to a 7 on the 10-point firmness scale, giving it a more supportive feel than the typical medium firm model. The sturdier surface is well suited for back and stomach sleepers who require extra support to align the spine.
A plush pillow-top eases tension without causing the body to sink excessively. The Tencel cover promotes breathability, while gel infusions in the foam are designed to remove excess heat and moisture. Next is a layer of Memory Foam Plus, Helix’s proprietary high-density memory foam. The layer contours the body evenly to alleviate pressure buildup. A transitional layer of high-density polyfoam keeps sleepers from collapsing into the firmer support core.
The 8-inch pocketed coil core is zoned to provide variable support: the hips and back receive extra reinforcement, while the shoulders and legs enjoy more cushioning. Stronger coils line the perimeter, giving the mattress above-average edge support. A high-density polyfoam base stabilizes the upper components and helps prevent surface indentations from forming.
The Helix Twilight Luxe includes a 100-night sleep trial, but customers can only initiate returns once 30 days have passed. The mattress has a 15-year warranty, which is longer than the company’s standard hybrid models. Free shipping is available to all 50 states.
For those seeking slightly more support than a true medium firm offers, the Helix Twilight Luxe should be an ideal match. The Euro-top surface cushions and contours to the body, but the zoned coils deliver extra reinforcement for heavier areas of the body.
Best Cooling
Layla Hybrid
Sleep Doctor
4.5
Amazon
4
Details
Trial Length 120 nights
Warranty 10 year, Limited
Trial Length / Warranty
120 nights / 10 year, Limited
Type Hybrid
Firmness Reversible: Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)
Price $1,299 – $1,899
Sleep Doctor’s Take
The Layla Hybrid was a popular choice among our hot sleeping testers. This is largely thanks to ventilated foams, cooling infusions, and breathable components like the cover and coils. Our heat guns detected minimal heat buildup on the surface, and we felt cool throughout testing.
Highlights
- Flippable design offers two firmness options
- Foam and coil construction balances contouring and support
- Removable cover for easy care
Drawbacks
- The thick foam layers may restrict movement across the mattress’ surface
- Couples who prefer responsiveness for sex may find the surface too soft
The Layla Hybrid is a hybrid model with a unique flippable design that offers different firmness levels on each surface. One side has a medium soft (4) feel while the other has a firm (7) feel. The reversible construction means this bed can accommodate many types of sleepers, but the firm side has a versatile middle-of-the-road feel similar to our other picks on this list.
Both sides of the mattress begin with a memory foam layer that conforms closely to the body, with the firm side offering more substantial support than the soft side. Next is a polyfoam layer that feels firmer than memory foam to prevent your body from sinking too deeply. This layer is zoned to give your body extra support in the lower back, which helps with proper spinal alignment. Both sides share a support core made of pocketed coils with enhanced support around the perimeter. Unlike many competing beds, the cover is removable and may be washed.
We found the firm side is best suited for sleepers over 130 pounds, since it offers the support needed for this weight category. Most stomach and back sleepers also found this side comfortable during tests. These sleep positions require the even balance of plushness and support offered by the Layla Hybrid. Those under 130 pounds may find the soft side more comfortable.
Layla offers free shipping to the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive a 120-night sleep trial with your mattress and a 10-year warranty.
Why You Should Trust Us
With so many different models available today, mattress shopping can be nothing short of overwhelming. This is where we come into play. As a team of seasoned sleep specialists, we’ve researched and personally tested countless mattress models. Our testing crew is made up of different body types and sleep styles, so we can assess how well a mattress performs for a broader population. Our goal is to help you determine if a medium firm mattress is the right fit for you and help guide you toward the most compatible models.
More Mattress Options by Feel
What Does Medium Firm Mean?
A 10-point scale is frequently used to determine mattress firmness. Most models fall between 4 and 7, as anything outside this range is considered extremely soft or firm. A medium firm mattress registers at about a 6, making it a middle-of-the-road feel.
It’s important to keep in mind that the way a mattress feels depends on your body weight and build. Sleepers under 130 pounds don’t sink as much as heavier people, so they often prefer a softer model that cushions pressure points. People over 230 pounds often need a firmer model that keeps sinkage in check and encourages a straighter spine. A medium firm mattress is often the sweet spot for sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.
Is it Better if You Sleep on a Medium Firm Mattress?
Each sleep position has different support needs and will impact the way a mattress feels. We discuss the best firmness ranges for each sleep style.
Sleep Position | Mattress Firmness | Description |
|---|---|---|
Side | Medium soft (4) to medium firm (6) | Side sleepers usually do well with a softer mattress that cushions pressure points on the hips and shoulders. Those over 130 pounds typically find a medium (5) to medium firm (6) model both plush and supportive. Side sleepers under 130 pounds often benefit from the extra give of a medium soft (4) feel. |
Back | Medium (5) to firm (7) | Compared to side sleepers, back sleepers need a firmer design that can support the heavier lumbar region. People under 130 pounds can typically find enough support with a medium (5) feel, while heavier back sleepers usually fare better with a sturdier medium firm (6) or firm (7) model. |
Stomach | Medium firm (6) to firm (8), with a thin pillow | Stomach sleepers also need a firmer model that prevents the midsection from sinking excessively, which can distort the spine. They also benefit from a thinner pillow that keeps the neck and upper spine from arching backwards too much. |
Would Side Sleepers Like a Medium Firm Bed?
Side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds often feel comfortable on a medium firm (6) mattress. Those under 130 pounds, however, might need a softer model that offers a closer hug. Side sleepers over 230 pounds generally prefer either a medium firm (6) or firm (7) mattress.
Is a Medium Firm Mattress Good for Your Back?
A mattress that promotes back health combines pressure relief with adequate spinal support. A medium firm model can strike this balance, especially for sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. Softer mattresses that allow the body to sink excessively can cause lumbar strain, while an excessively firm surface won’t ease tension along the spine.
Since relative feel and support depends on your sleep position and body weight, make sure to consider these factors before choosing a medium firm mattress.
Other Ways to Make Your Bed More Comfortable
While a mattress is essential to getting a good night’s rest, a number of other factors can also improve sleep quality.
Extra Pillows Can Be Useful
With so much focus on the mattress, shoppers sometimes overlook the importance of pillows when it comes to contouring and support. A pillow that works with your sleep style can add measurable pressure relief.
Side sleepers usually do best with a medium or high loft pillow that closes the gap between the neck and shoulders, which helps align the spine. Using a bolster pillow between the knees can also even spinal alignment and alleviate pressure at the hips and lower back. Moldable materials like feathers, down alternative fibers, and shredded memory foam or latex are great for side sleepers who like to fold their pillows in half.
Most back sleepers prefer a medium loft pillow that keeps the neck on a straighter plane. Stomach sleepers need a thinner pillow so that the head doesn’t arch back too much, which creates an unhealthy curve in the spine.
Consider Buying a Split King for You and Your Partner
For co-sleepers with very different sleep preferences, sometimes compromising on one firmness level isn’t possible. Couples with greater budget flexibility might consider a split king frame that can accommodate two twin XL mattresses. This way each person can choose their preferred feel based on sleep position and body weight.
You Could Also Use a Mattress Topper for Extra Pressure Relief
Sometimes you can postpone buying a new bed by using a mattress topper. Usually between 1 and 3 inches thick, a topper is added to a bed’s surface and can make a firmer mattress feel plusher.
For couples with very different sleep preferences, a topper can be used on one side of the bed to alter its feel. Mattress toppers are useful for making small adjustments to comfort, but they aren’t a substitute for a mattress that needs to be replaced.
Make Sure Your Mattress Has Proper Support
Even a very high-quality mattress won’t be able to perform optimally if your bed foundation is worn-out or wasn’t properly assembled. An inadequate frame or base won’t support you or your mattress, as premature sagging is more likely to occur. Weak support usually translates to improper spine alignment and more aches and pains. Creaking is a tell-tale sign that your foundation needs to be adjusted or replaced entirely.
About The Author
Certified Sleep Science Coach, Director of Product Testing
David is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a lifelong passion for well-being and health optimization. His interest in sleep developed with the arrival of his son, when sleep suddenly became a precious commodity.
- Position: Side sleeper
- Temperature: Hot Sleeper
- Chronotype: Lion
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