How to Choose the Perfect Mattress Density for You

One of the most important things to consider when picking out a new mattress is the mattress density or firmness. While a softer mattress may make you feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud, and a firmer mattress may feel supportive, it’s not just about what feels best the moment you lay down. Choosing the proper mattress density for you will ensure that you sleep more soundly and prevent you from waking up feeling stiff or with a headache. Here’s how to choose the perfect mattress density specifically for your needs.

What Should I Consider?

Your Sleep Position

Because your sleep position dictates just where you need support, it’s the first thing you should look at when thinking about the density or firmness of your mattress. Sleeping on your side, which happens to be the most common sleep position, means you need a softer mattress top to cradle your hips and shoulders. If you sleep on your back or stomach, there are fewer curves that need to be cushioned, meaning that you’d do best with the support that a firmer mattress offers.

Your Weight

Your weight and your mattress go hand-in-hand because your weight determines just how much you sink into the top-portion of your mattress. If you’re more heavy-set, you may want a firmer mattress to help your body feel more supported. Remember that comfort is key, so don’t be afraid to try different densities to see what feels best for your unique body type.

Your Sleeping Partners

When choosing your mattress density, an important factor to consider is who you might be sharing your bed with. Whether you’re sharing with a partner, pets, or kids, this can all add extra weight on your mattress. If you plan to share your bed with your partner, you’ll also want to think about their specific sleeping position. If you’re opposites in that category, look for a hybrid mattress to get the best of both worlds.

Your Spinal Alignment

Determining whether or not you experience back, neck, or hip pain can be an important consideration when deciding on your mattress density. If you deal with shoulder, hip, or back pain, support is important, but you’ll also want to look for a little extra cushion on top to cradle the curves of your body and prevent any ailments while you sleep.

How to Tell If Your Mattress Isn’t Quite Right

One of the best things about the OkiOki 365-night trial period is the opportunity to see how your body responds to the new mattress after sleeping on it over time. If you’re waking up feeling stiff or experiencing pain in your neck or shoulders, chances are the mattress is too soft and not supporting these areas of your body enough. If you wake up with upper back pain, it’s likely that the mattress is too firm for you and not contouring to the natural curvature of your spine.

A Primer on The Mattress for You

OkiSoft: Best for those who prefer sinking into a soft mattress at the end of the day, side sleepers, and those who move a lot in their sleep.

OkiFirm: Best for those who prefer a firm and supportive feel, back and stomach sleepers, and those who are prone to back pain.

OkiEasy: Best for those who love the feeling of a soft mattress, but also need support, side sleepers, and those who move a lot throughout the night.

OkiFlex: Best for those who love a firm feel, back and stomach sleepers, and those dealing with back pain.

Need more guidance? OkiOki’s sleep quiz is designed specifically to help you find the perfect mattress.

 Article written by Janelle Martel