Is A Medium Firm Mattress Good For Side Sleepers

Pros And Cons Of The Layla

MA Score: The Mattress Advisor Score is a weighted score that takes into account 14 different factors related to the mattress performance, function, convenience and the brands social responsibility.

Here Are The Main Attributes We Look For And How We Test Them:

Comfort: This is based on my subjective experience, having tested dozens of mattresses over the years. Side sleepers typically benefit from a softer mattress than other sleeping styles. I considered that when evaluating comfort for this guide. Fortunately, I’m a side sleeper myself, so my subjective comfort played a significant factor here. While sleeping on each mattress, I pay close attention to how firm it is, which sleeping positions my wife and I gravitate to, and if I wake up feeling refreshed or in pain in the morning. I also measure how well it dissipates heat by using a laser thermometer to compare readings before I lay down for at least an hour, as soon as I get up, and two minutes after I get up.

Motion isolation: If you’ve ever shared a bed with a partner who tosses and turns, you know how vital motion isolation is to getting a good night’s sleep. I test this by setting a soda pop can in the middle of the mattress. Then I drop a 15-pound bowling ball from four feet above the bed so that it lands 12 inches from the can. If the can stays upright, the bed has sound motion isolation. If the can falls over, the motion isolation could use some work. In future updates to this guide, watch out for more detailed assessments using a vibration meter.

Eve Premium Hybrid Mattress: Review In Brief

• A well-made and durable hybrid mattress
• Good temperature regulation for hot sleepers
• Motion isolation could be better for this price

The Eve Premium Hybrid is the most expensive model in Eve Sleeps six-strong range of memory foam and hybrid mattresses, and sits high up in our best mattress guide as a top pick for hot sleepers. Its hailed as a luxury coil and foam mattress to suit all sleeping positions, which is a bold statement. Weve been sleeping on a double size medium-firm Eve Premium Hybrid for over three weeks to put these claims to the test and we havent been disappointed.

The first thing we noticed about this mattress in a box is how well made it is. Compared to other foam and hybrid models weve tested for Toms Guide, the Eve Premium Hybrid stands out in terms of build quality. Its packed with luxury mattress materials, including heat-dispersing foam and 1,4000 full size pocket springs for better support. The plush quilted top also looks more opulent than competitor models, with the exception being the DreamCloud and its deeply quilted cover .

The downside to all those luxury materials? The Eve Premium Hybrid is a very heavy mattress. It took two of us to carry a boxed double size up a flight of stairs, and it didnt get much better once the mattress was fully inflated moving this beast around on your own breaks a sweat, so youll need back-up for anything larger than a double.

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What Is A Medium Mattress

A medium mattress sits in the middle of the firmness scale at 5. Medium mattresses are a popular choice as theyre incredibly comfortable while being functionally versatile to compliment an array of different body types and sleeping positions. Their adaptability makes them some of the best mattresses for combination sleeperswhich is most of us.

How To Choose A Mattress

Before purchasing a mattress, people may wish to consider the following factors:

• Firmness: Medium firm mattresses are usually suitable for all sleeping positions. However, firmness feel is subjective, and a person should choose a mattress that best supports their body.
• Materials: Memory foam mattresses may provide extra pressure relief, whereas hybrid mattresses may offer cooler sleep.
• Sleeping position: People should ensure that the mattress they purchase is comfortable in all sleep positions.
• Sleep trial: Some companies may offer a sleep trial. With these, people can try a mattress for a period of time to ensure that it is comfortable.
• Warranty: A person may wish to purchase a mattress from a company that offers a warranty.

The right mattress should distribute pressure evenly throughout the body and keep the back in a neutral position.

Below are six options that may reduce back pain and improve sleep, thereby increasing energy levels.

Best for relieving hip and shoulder pressure

This mattress is a hybrid, meaning that it has both memory foam and coils. It has an overall medium firmness, with several layers of memory foam of different densities. According to the manufacturers, these layers allow the mattress to conform to the body, providing pressure relief for the hips and shoulders.

This mattress has won multiple consumer awards and receives mostly positive reviews. All Helix mattresses have breathable covers and come with a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty.

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How Old Is Your Mattress

This is the very first question you need to answer. Why? Well, the age of your mattress can play a big role in determining whether or not you need a new one. As a general rule of thumb, youll want to start thinking about getting a new bed if youve had your old one for over 8 years. This isnt a set standard by any means, but is usually a good benchmark for checking in with your mattress and figuring out whether its still doing its job re: Lulling you to sleep!

For a quick primer on the typical expiration dates for different mattress materials, check out the graphic below:

While these numbers are helpful in contextualizing the lifespan of your mattress, the best way to determine whether or not its time to boot the old gal is to listen to your body. Are you waking up with new pains in the morning? Do you have trouble finding a comfortable position at night? Have you noticed any new dips in your mattress that cant be fixed by rotating it regularly? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it may be time to bid adieu to your bed.

Key Considerations For Side Sleepers

For side sleepers, a medium-soft to medium-firm mattress is the way to go. But how do you know if your mattress is too firm, or not firm enough?

Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Spinal alignment The heavier parts of your body, like your hips and shoulders, should sink into the firmer mattress slightly, ensuring that your spine maintains a neutral alignment. This is essential to have in a mattress

• Manufacturers rating Most mattress manufacturers use a standard 1-10 scale for rating mattress firmness, with 1 being the least firm and 10 being the most. Side sleepers will be most comfortable on a mattress thats rated at either a 5 or a 6 .4

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How Can I Dispose Of My Mattress

People can dispose of their mattress by recycling it, donating it, or leaving it at a landfill site.

A person may be able to recycle most of their mattress. Materials such as springs, foam, and polyester filling are all recyclable. However, people will have to take apart the mattress and separate the materials.

If a mattress is still useable, some companies or charities may accept it to donate to others. Although some places may accept mattresses in a range of conditions, most will not accept mattresses that are not useable.

If a person cannot recycle or donate their mattress, they must dispose of it at a landfill site.

Best Mattress Toppers For Side Sleepers

If you arent quite ready to purchase a new mattress, a mattress topper can go a long way in improving the quality of your old one. While shopping for a topper, you should be mindful of the same things that you would be while shopping for a mattress.

Say, for example, your current mattress causes soreness in your shoulders and hips when you sleep on your side. Well, its probably too firm for a side sleeper. A soft memory foam mattress topper can be added to the bed in order to aid in pressure relief, so you get a better nights sleep for a lot less than the price of a new mattress.

That is not to say, however, that this is a permanent solution. A new mattress topper is a good stopgap, and a great way to test out mattress materials, but theres no substitute for a new mattress that is built in a way to accommodate side sleepers. If youre interested in more information, take a look at our best mattress toppers for side sleepers.

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Firmness And Support For Side Sleepers

It is key for side sleepers to pick a mattress that both:

• Supports the body enough to keep it in a comfortable position
• Is soft enough to provide pressure relief

The goal is to find a mattress with support that is rooted in the center of the mattress with soft and firm areas built in for conforming and giving in to the weight and pressure of the body. It is recommended that the comfort level is 5 to 10 .

Side sleepers can face several challenges because of the sleep position:

Body misalignment

When a side sleeper moves by twisting or curling legs in the opposite position of the upper body, it causes muscles in the back and the lumbar spine to go out of alignment. This movement can cause and worsen lower back and neck pain. Side sleepers can try to prevent this by sleeping in positions that ensure alignment of the spine and using a mattress that has enough support and softness.

Skin aging and wrinkles

Side sleeping can also cause the aging of skin and wrinkles while one side of the face is on the pillow.

Sagging breasts

Although sleeping on the side is beneficial because it elongates the spine, this position can also cause breasts to sag.

What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing A Mattress

Spine alignment: A mattress should support the natural curve of your spine so you can sleep with good posture throughout the night. To have proper spine alignment, the mattress will push back to support the weight of your body to prevent the spine from sinking into the mattress, while also having enough give to cradle the natural shape of your back.

Durability: A sagging mattress can cause discomfort and pain. Choosing a high-quality, durable mattress that will last you for several years is an investment in both your finances and your health.

Motion transfer: Motion transfer is an important factor for those who sleep with a partner or pet. A mattress with a high motion transfer score will prevent movements from your sleep partner from making their way to your side of the bed and disturbing your rest.

Temperature regulation: No one wants to wake up sweaty in the middle of the night. A mattress made of breathable materials such as coils and latex, or foam that is formulated with temperature regulation features will help keep the surface of the bed cool throughout the night.

Responsiveness: A responsive mattress will adapt to your bodys shape on the mattress as you change sleeping positions during the night. Choosing a responsive mattress will keep you from feeling stuck in the mattress if you tend to move around, and will also keep your body supported as you switch positions.

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Health Concerns For Side

Side-sleeping is helpful for people who experience acid reflux or back pain, or those who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. But side-sleeping also has its disadvantages: A tight fetal position can leave you feeling sore in the morning, especially if you have arthritis, said Ahmed Radwan, DPT, PhD, associate professor of physical therapy at Utica College in New York. If you dont switch positions frequently, over time you could be vulnerable to sore shoulders and hips. Anecdotally, long-term side-sleeping has also been associated with rotator-cuff tendinitis, an inflammation of the tendon that connects muscle to the bone at the shoulder, and hip bursitis, an inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs between the bone and soft tissues, said Jonathan Braman, MD, chief of shoulder surgery at the University of Minnesota Medical Center.

Its unclear whether side-sleeping, particularly on a too-firm mattress, makes people vulnerable to these conditions or brings out conditions theyre already prone to. Fortunately, most people move around more than they think, Braman told us, and chances are good that any mattress that feels comfortable and supportive for you will be fine in general.

How Much Do The Best Mattresses For Side Sleepers Cost

There are great mattresses for side sleepers available to meet every budget. You can get a top-reviewed mattress for side sleepers like the Nectar and Casper, for under $1,000. Luxury options, such as the Saatva mattress, are great choices for those with extra cash on hand and want frills and extra features. Buying a mattress online will cut out middleman markups for extra savings. Payment plan options are also available for many online mattresses, so you can purchase your dream bed without blowing your budget by making a small low-or no-interest payment each month.

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How Long Does It Take To Break In A Firm Mattress

Most mattresses take anywhere from 30 to 90 days to fully break in. Your new mattress may be different from your old one, or it may seem stiff from its newness, and thus may seem uncomfortable for a little while. Like a new pair of shoes, the mattress materials havent had time to soften and conform to your body.

Best Mattresses For Pressure Relief For Side Sleepers

This medium-soft mattress was designed to provide support by targeting multiple points where pressure tends to happen, from the head and neck down to the legs. Multiple layers provide extra padding along the shoulder and hip regions.

Its made from plant-based material and is produced in an eco-friendly factory.

This mattress is designed to resist sagging, so soft spots shouldnt develop, even along the edges.

Considerations

• Price: $$$
• It comes with a 100-night trial with free shipping and returns, plus a 20-year manufacturers warranty.

Shop for the Amerisleep AS4 mattress at Amerisleep.

This mattress provides medium firmness with foam layers that give pressure point support without compromising on cushy-feeling comfort.

Its made from Tempur-Pedic pressure-relieving memory foam, which was originally developed by NASA scientists to improve airline seats for the safety and health of pilots and passengers, especially on long flights.

The keep cool cover offers antimicrobial protection against dust mites, dander, and mold.

Users tout this mattress for relief from lower back pain, shoulder pain, and neck pain.

Considerations

• It comes with a 90-night trial and 10-year limited warranty.
• Of the brands out there, Tempur-Pedic is the least likely to put their mattresses on sale or discount. So your best bet may be to read over the return policy and go for it if youre OK with the price.

Shop for the Tempur-Adapt Medium Mattress at or Tempur-Pedic.

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Innomax Genesis 800 Dx Watermattress

Best for lower back pain

According to the manufacturers, this waterbed distributes body weight evenly and reduces pressure on the shoulders, lower back, hips, and heels. They highlight a 10-layer support system that is firmest in the middle to support the back.

A suggests that waterbeds and foam mattresses perform better for participants with chronic lower back pain than firm mattresses.

Innomax offers a 20-year extended limited warranty.

The following are some frequently asked questions about mattresses for side sleepers:

Is Your Current Mattress Causing You Pain

If you are currently suffering from neck or back pain, make note of when youre experiencing the pain the most. Is your pain worse at night or in the morning? If your pain is worse when you wake up, your mattress is likely the cause. Getting a new mattress with the proper support and comfort for your body will greatly alleviate this for you. Certain mattress features can provide relief and additional support depending on where your pain is.

If you are suffering from lower back pain, it is recommended that you find a mattress that provides solid support, with just enough cushion. This is usually found in a medium or medium-firm mattress.

If you are suffering from shoulder or hip pain, find a mattress that provides a happy combination of comfort layers and support features. Look for a plush, medium, or medium-soft mattress to help provide pressure relief.

If you are suffering from restless leg syndrome, nighttime heartburn, or GERD, you may want to look into an adjustable mattress base in addition to a new mattress. Sleeping on an incline helps to alleviate these nasty pains.

As always, we recommend you consult a physician if you have any further issues or questions concerning choosing a mattress and your health.

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A Mattress Made Without Springs To Minimize Motion Transfer

Leesa Sleep

• Firmness level: Medium-firm
• Trial period: 100 nights

Heads up: This model is on sale for Presidents Day. Get up to $500 off mattresses, depending on which one you choose.

Leesas mattress is crafted entirely from foam for a cozy-yet-supportive feel. Although its all foam, its made with four different layers to offer the balance of support and comfort that side sleepers crave. Further, the absence of coils means its less springy than traditional mattresses, so it excels at minimizing motion transfera huge plus for couples. On that note, if you share your bed and your partner isnt a side sleeper, thats okay this pick is medium-firm and provides pressure relief for all sleeping positions.

And while its made of memory foam, it doesnt trap heat. The Leesa mattress has a top layer of airy foam that stays cool while providing responsive contouring and its gray twill cover is refreshingly breathable.

What the Reviews Say: Best mattress for side sleepers! says one buyer who adds that side sleeping isnt their only preferred position. I’m all over the place, sometimes stomach and back, and I feel really supported. It’s definitely a medium-firm mattress, which is perfect.