Decision Summary
Choose between a firm and a soft mattress after lying down in your usual sleeping position and trying tossing and turning. Look for a comfortable feel that allows you to settle and move without discomfort; someone else's preference doesn't determine the right firmness for you. Use the firmness rating on the product page to narrow down your options, then compare two or three models before buying.
What do mattress firmness ratings mean?
Firmness describes how the surface feels against your skin when you lie down. A mattress's construction includes the comfort layers and the support base, whether it's foam or springs. You might find a soft surface on top of a firm base, so distinguish between the softness of the fabric and how your body feels against the entire mattress.
- Lina: A description of a softer, more cuddly feel within the company's range. Experience its ease of turning and getting up.
- Medium softness: leaning towards the soft side. This description does not automatically translate to "medium hardness" when compared.
- Medium firmness: leans towards the firmer side of the middle. Make sure the manufacturer describes the model itself with this term.
- Firm: An option for those who prefer a firmer surface. Try its comfort in your sleeping position before relying on the label.
Two people might describe the same mattress with different feelings. If you find a rating like 6 out of 10, ask the seller how they define that scale before comparing it to a rating from another company. In the following examples, we are simply relaying the advertised product description, without inventing numerical scores or weight ranges.
Three comparison models from Sleep Nice
Ilfora for those who want to experience a soft sensation
The store describes the Elvora Hybrid mattress as soft and 32 cm high. It combines memory foam, nano pocket springs, and HR foam. When trying it, focus on how much snuggling you prefer and how you move around on its surface.
Royal for those comparing medium-soft options
The Royal Pocket Spring mattress is described as having a medium firmness, with three separate springs, a 5cm thick HR foam layer, and edge support. Try sitting in the center and at the edge of the mattress; sitting on the edge alone doesn't give the impression of lying down.
Pride for those who prefer a hard surface experience
The store describes the 28cm Pride mattress as firm. It contains Bonded Firm Foam, Baby HR Foam, and a Soft Foam layer. The presence of a soft layer among the components does not change the overall model description to "soft." Compare its feel to Royal or Elvora mattresses rather than judging it based on the name of one of the layers.
These are examples of advertised comfort levels, not performance test results or a ranking of the best. Please check the price and available sizes on each product page when ordering.
A practical method for testing mattress firmness
- Identify the reason for changing your mattress: Note whether the surface feels uncomfortable, you have difficulty turning over, or there is noticeable sagging. If you are comparing surface adjustment to replacement, consult the guide for the felt or the new mattress .
- Lie down as you sleep: try your usual position, then change it. Don't reduce the comparison to hand pressure or sitting for a few seconds on the edge.
- Record your impressions: For each model, write: Comfortable when lying down, easy to turn over, suitable when standing up. Use "Yes," "No," and "Needs to try" instead of giving a rating you haven't tested.
- Compare under similar conditions: ask about the base of the mattress and the felt used on top of it, because you want to understand the configuration you have tried before ordering the mattress alone.
- Review your purchase decision: Check the size and fit of the base. Read the exchange and return policies , and ask before paying what applies to your order.
Frequently asked questions about firm and soft mattresses
Is a firm mattress best for everyone?
No. You might prefer a firm surface while someone else prefers a softer feel. Choose based on your comfort level and the model's specifications, without considering firmness alone as a sign of quality.
Is medium softness equivalent to medium hardness?
Do not treat the two statements as identical. Ask for clarification on the model's position within the company's product range, and retain the original product description when making comparisons.
Is weight alone sufficient for determining rigidity?
It's not enough on its own to determine how you'll feel. Check the manufacturer's recommendation for the model, if provided, and then try your sleeping position. Don't assume a tolerance or weight category that the store hasn't specified.
Does a higher mattress mean it's harder?
Height is a measure of thickness, and comfort level is a different description. Elvora here is higher than Pride, but the store describes the former as soft and the latter as firm.
What should I do if my preference differs from my sleeping partner's?
We compared the same model together and determined what each of us accepted. We used the couples' mattress selection guide to complete the motion test, then reviewed the options and sizes in the mattress classification .
Table comparing advertised comfort levels
This comparison organizes the purchase decision according to the specifications and observations mentioned, and is not a performance score or laboratory ranking of the products.
| The model | Announced grade | What you experience yourself |
|---|---|---|
| Elfora 32 cm | Soft | cuddling and easy turning |
| Royal 28 cm | Medium softness | Comfort in the middle and at the edge |
| Pride 28 cm | harsh | The comfort of lying down and getting up |
Decision plan before purchase
Follow the steps from top to bottom:
The material name or price alone does not determine the right choice. Complete the comparison using the product links and expert guides in the article.
From firmness level to choosing the type of mattress
If you're comparing foam mattress models, browse foam mattresses and read the description of each comfort level. For options with individual springs, see the Pocket Spring Mattress category . Comfort levels may be similar, but materials may differ; try the same model.
Before visiting, check with Sleep Nice branches to inquire about the availability of the model for viewing. If you require a new base, compare the bed and bed frame details with the size and mattress instructions.
Guides to help you complete your selection
To distinguish between material and comfort level, read the Latex vs. Memory Foam comparison .
After determining your preferred comfort level, review the mattress price and value comparison .