Best Medium Firm Mattress

Many people look forward to sinking into bed at the end of a long day, but there’s a fine line between a mattress with a conforming feel and one that engulfs you. Soft, plush mattresses aren’t always the right choice for certain types of sleepers. In fact, many individuals can benefit from a firmer mattress that prevents sinking in deeply.

Medium firm mattresses rank around a 6 on the 10-point firmness scale. These mattresses are popular among side, back, and stomach sleepers in all weight ranges, particularly those between 130 and 230 pounds.

A mattress that’s too soft can cause the spine to shift out of alignment. This change in posture puts pressure on the lower back, hips, and shoulders. Meanwhile, an overly firm mattress may not be contouring enough to cushion pressure points and conform to the shape of the body.

A medium firm mattress should support the natural shape of the spine for many sleepers, though shoppers will need to consider other factors such as body weight and sleep position. We’ll cover our top picks for the best medium firm mattress, along with factors that shoppers should keep in mind before making a purchase.

Product Details

Helix tailors mattresses to meet every sleeper’s specific needs. The Midnight is geared toward side sleepers and shoppers looking for a medium firm (6) feel. Its hybrid construction includes two layers of foam on top and a pocketed coil core for maximum comfort and support.

The Helix Midnight starts with a cover made of a breathable knit fabric. For an added fee, you can opt for the GlacioTex Cooling Cover, which is designed to pull excessive heat away from your body. Underneath the cover is a layer of medium-density memory foam, which closely conforms to the shape of the body. Next is a layer of polyfoam with a firmer feel. This transition layer keeps sleepers from sinking into the mattress’ support core.

Hundreds of wrapped coils make up the Midnight’s 8-inch support core. This supportive base generates ample pushback to keep your body well supported. The mattress has enhanced edge support on two sides to reduce compression when you sit or sleep close to the edges. Side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds will likely find that this mattress cradles the body while keeping the spine in proper alignment.

Helix offers free shipping to all addresses within the U.S. The company also provides a 100-night sleep trial, which includes a 30-day break-in period before a return can be initiated. The Midnight comes with a 10-year limited warranty.

Few mattresses achieve the true medium firm feel as well as the DreamCloud, a luxury hybrid constructed with adaptive foam layers and a sturdy coil support core. You’ll notice deep cushioning and contouring as your body settles into the comfort system, but each foam layer is progressively denser and excessive sinkage shouldn’t be an issue for most sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. Our hands-on tests reveal the DreamCloud is particularly well suited to side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers weighing between 130 and 230 pounds.

We’ve also found the DreamCloud excels at pressure relief and motion isolation — two performance areas where hybrids often fall short. The foam layers provide ample padding to help ensure fewer sore spots along the spine and minimal transfer when you or your partner change positions in bed. At the same time, the coils are strong enough to generate pushback and limit sinkage when you get in and out of bed, and most of our testers were able to move across the mattress with relative ease.

A cashmere-blend cover encases the mattress. This fabric is not only soft but also exceptionally breathable, allowing you to sink into the DreamCloud’s surface without too much heat absorption. During our temperature control tests, most team members noticed little to no heat buildup. Cashmere also has natural moisture-wicking qualities if you’re prone to night sweats.

The DreamCloud’s price-point falls well below average compared to the average hybrid model and shipping is free throughout the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive a generous sleep trial with your order that spans 365 nights, giving you plenty of time to test the mattress and decide whether it’s right for you. If you keep your DreamCloud, you’ll also qualify for a lifetime warranty against structural defects.

Sleepers with back pain often need a mattress that supports the midsection and evenly distributes weight to promote spinal alignment. The Nolah Evolution 15 has a plush surface and zoned pocketed coils to provide targeted support. This combination helps keep sleepers on an even plane and prevents uncomfortable sinkage. The medium firm (6) model is one of three firmness options that sleepers can choose from, the other two being medium (5) and firm (8).

The Evolution 15 begins with a polyfoam quilted Euro-top that gives the surface a luxuriously plush feel. Next is a layer of proprietary AirFoamICE, a proprietary material infused with graphite designed to keep cooler than other foams. A transitional layer made from denser polyfoam cushions between the comfort system and coil support core. This layer also prevents you from sinking too deeply into the mattress.

The support core features zoned pocketed coils, centered around the midsection to reduce sinkage. The coils are also zoned along the perimeter to enhance edge support. These coils rest on a base layer of polyfoam. The mattress is encased in a cover made from ArticTex fiber, which is meant to keep the surface cool to the touch. The bottom half features handles so you can lift, rotate, and carry the bed with relative ease.

The medium firm (6) model performed best among back sleepers up to 230 pounds. Side sleepers over 230 pounds and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds may also find the feel comfortable. Sleepers who weigh under 130 pounds may prefer the medium (5) model, and those over 230 pounds may feel more supported by the firm (8) feel.

One significant feature of this model is its cooling capabilities. Foams can often trap too much heat, but this bed combats heat retention with a breathable coil support core and foam infusions engineered to regulate temperature. Thanks to the bouncy feel from the coils, the mattress also earned high marks for responsiveness for sex. The bed’s stellar performance in edge support and ease of movement allow couples to comfortably use the whole surface for sleep or sex.

Nolah offers free shipping to the contiguous U.S. and a 120-night sleep trial. Customers can opt out of the sleep trial to receive up to $160 off their mattress purchase. Nolah Evolution 15 orders come with a lifetime warranty against structural defects.

Mattresses with memory foam layers tend to hug the body closely, resulting in sinkage that can compromise a medium firm feel. Saatva’s Memory Foam Hybrid has a fairly plush surface thanks to adaptive polyfoam quilted into the cover, but the underlying memory foam layer is zoned to feel firmer and more supportive beneath the midsection — an area of the body where many people carry extra weight. 

Dense transitional foam and robust pocketed coils form a sturdy support system, and a foam encasement around the perimeter ensures plenty of pushback when you lie close to the edges of the mattress or get in and out of bed. Since the Memory Foam Hybrid is a true medium firm, our hands-on tests indicate side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds should receive enough cushioning to rest comfortably on the mattress.

A cover made of organic cotton encases the entire mattress. While this material is fairly breathable, you may notice some heat retention from the foam layers, but the coils should generate enough airflow to prevent the mattress from feeling excessively warm. Our team also found that the foam layers absorb enough movement to significantly reduce motion transfer. This may be beneficial to anyone who shares their bed with a restless sleep partner and frequently wakes up when they move during the night.

Although the Memory Foam Hybrid is somewhat expensive compared to similarly constructed models on the market, Saatva sweetens the deal with complimentary White Glove delivery. This service includes a scheduled delivery date, full assembly inside your residence, and haulaway of your old mattress and box spring upon request. Your order also comes with a 365-night trial, ensuring plenty of time to test out the mattress. Those who keep their hybrid also receive a lifetime warranty.

The Birch Luxe is a medium firm latex hybrid that provides plenty of cushioning without sacrificing support or stability. Multiple layers of soft wool batting give the surface an invitingly plush feel when you get into bed, but a latex comfort layer and zoned coils keep your body on an even plane and prevent uncomfortable sinkage. The Luxe earned favorable ratings across the board from our testing team, but was most popular among our side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds, and our back and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.

Wool has natural moisture-wicking properties, the latex is ventilated to encourage airflow near the surface of the mattress, and the coils promote extra circulation throughout the interior. These components work together to keep the mattress cool and comfortable, and an organic cotton cover provides additional breathability. Since latex is highly responsive, you’ll notice a slight bounce as your body settles. This allows you to move across the surface with relative ease.

We also recommend the Birch Luxe for eco-conscious consumers. Both the cotton and wool layers have earned certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard, one of the world’s leading organizations for recognizing sustainably sourced fabrics. An additional certification from Greenguard indicates the mattress does not contain any polyurethane-based foams. 

Birch offers free ground shipping to all 50 states, and each customer receives two free pillows with their purchase. The Luxe is further backed by a 100-night trial period and a 25-year warranty against structural and material defects.

The WinkBed is a hybrid model available in four firmness options. With a medium firm (6) feel, the Luxury Firm option combines solid pressure relief, edge support, and bounce, allowing it to accommodate the comfort needs and preferences of people who experience back pain during sleep.

The mattress uses a Tencel cover, which is soft to the touch and wicks heat away from the body. A gel-infused polyfoam Euro-top cushions the body while pulling away excessive heat. Below the Euro-top is a proprietary SupportCell polyfoam layer, which has a higher density that promotes contouring but is also firm enough to keep the body from sinking too deep. A zoned coil system in the support core provides extra support around the sleeper’s midsection. The coils are pocketed, so each coil can move independently and air can flow freely between them. Added edge support in the coil layer creates a sturdy perimeter.

Side sleepers who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds should find just enough pressure relief to cradle the shoulders and hips while also receiving ample support to keep the lumbar area from sagging. Back and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds should also benefit from this balance of cradling and support.

WinkBeds provides a lifetime warranty and a 120-night sleep trial.

The Bear Elite Hybrid is a well-balanced mattress that combines foam’s cushioning with the strong support of pocketed coils. The foam layers do an excellent job of absorbing movement transfer, which should appeal to couples looking to minimize nighttime disturbances from their partner’s movement. 

The mattress begins with copper-infused memory foam that adapts to the body. Beneath is a layer of polyfoam that further promotes contouring but has a firmer feel underneath the midsection to prevent the body from sinking into the support core. The core is composed of pocketed coils that offer robust support but also respond to the body for gentle pressure relief. The coils rest on a polyfoam base layer for stability. Altogether, the mattress has a medium firm (6) feel that should feel comfortable for a wide array of sleepers.

The Bear Elite Hybrid has just the right balance of contouring and support for most side and back sleepers, especially those seeking cushioning for areas where pressure builds up at night. It’s best suited for side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. People in this weight group will sink just far enough to receive cradling in the shoulders and hips but won’t sink uncomfortably deep. Hot sleepers should find this bed very comfortable, thanks to the consistent ventilation through the coils. The cover is also made with Celliant fibers, which are engineered to wick moisture and maintain a neutral surface temperature.

Bear offers a 120-night sleep trial for customers to try out the mattress, as well as a lifetime warranty for those who choose to keep the bed. Shipping is free to the contiguous U.S.

Hybrids are some of the most popular mattress choices because they balance the cushioning of a thick comfort system with a sturdy coil system. The Sweet Zzz Honey Hybrid Mattress is an innovative take on the typical latex hybrid that slightly cradled our pressure points while staying very responsive.

The comfort system begins with a layer of GOTS-certified organic wool that acts as a natural fire barrier while encouraging airflow to keep the surface cool. Underneath is a layer of GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex that cradles the body to alleviate pressure. Next is a layer of microcoils that offer targeted pressure relief.

Pocketed coils make up the support core, preventing the body from sinking excessively. Extra coils reinforce the perimeter of the mattress, helping it bear your weight when you lay or sit near the edges. The coils rest on a breathable layer of cotton-wool blend for stability. A breathable quilted cover made from organic cotton encases the mattress.

The Honey Hybrid falls at a 6 on our 10-point firmness scale, which should appeal to many sleeper types. Our side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds, back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds awarded the mattress its highest ratings. Sleepers in these categories should appreciate the mattress’ supportive feel.

Cotton, wool, and latex are all naturally breathable materials, and the coils ensure steady airflow through the mattress’ interior. These features earned the Honey Hybrid high marks from our hot sleepers. We also recommend the mattress for couples who value a responsive surface for sex. The latex and coils create a bouncy surface that we could move across easily.

Sweet Zzz offers free shipping to customers living in the contiguous U.S. You can test out the mattress for 100 nights and return it anytime after a 30-night break-in period for a full refund. The Honey Hybrid Mattress is backed by a lifetime warranty against structural defects.

If you wake up with stiffness or sore spots along your spine, you may need a mattress that contours closely enough to alleviate pressure. The Minocasa Mino Hybrid Mattress is medium firm (6), but its comfort system consists of three adaptive foam layers that provide deep cushioning. Body-mapping software during our tests revealed minimal pressure buildup, especially among our side and back sleepers weighing 230 pounds or less, and the Mino Hybrid earned higher pressure relief ratings than many competing medium firm models we’ve tested.

The Mino Hybrid’s support core also plays a major role in reducing pressure. Pocketed coils divided into multiple zones based on gauge, or thickness, results in extra pushback beneath your midsection — where people tend to carry a disproportionate amount of weight — and gentler cradling for lighter areas of the body. The coils are also reinforced along the perimeter to prevent excessive sinkage when you sleep near the edges of your mattress or get in and out of bed.

Motion isolation was another testing highlight for the Mino Hybrid. The foam layers work together to absorb movement and prevent motion transfer across the surface, so the mattress is a good choice for anyone whose sleep is disrupted by a partner who tosses and turns or frequently changes positions. A moisture-wicking Tencel cover and steady airflow through the coils should also help ensure a cool, comfortable night’s rest without too much heat buildup.

The Mino Hybrid’s sticker price is significantly below average for a memory foam hybrid, and standard ground shipping is free for customers in the contiguous U.S. Minocasa’s generous sleep trial allows you to test the mattress for up to 180 nights. If you decide to keep your Mino Hybrid, it’s further backed by a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Other Mattress Guides

If you’re still not certain what factors to consider when looking for a new bed, you can narrow down your search by reading our recommendations by mattress feel.

Who is a Medium Firm Mattress Best For?

A medium firm mattress can suit a wide variety of sleepers. While comfort depends on personal preference, a person’s weight and primary sleep position significantly influence how a mattress contours to the shape of the body and relieves pressure points.

Mattresses that are too soft cause the sleeper to sink in near the hips, waist, and abdomen. This can strain the neck and lumbar region. A mattress that is too firm will not cushion pressure points in the shoulders, back, and hips.

Most individuals between 130 and 230 pounds prefer the light contouring and support of a medium firm mattress. This is especially true for back and stomach sleepers in this weight range. Side sleepers above 230 pounds tend to prefer a medium to medium firm mattress, while those who weigh less than 230 pounds tend to opt for softer models.

A medium firm mattress generally provides enough cushioning in its comfort layers to contour to the shape of the spine without causing it to sink out of alignment. A durable support core gently lifts the hips and abdomen for a balanced feel.

We’ll highlight the general guidelines for the best firmness levels for each individual’s sleeping position and weight range, but shoppers should consider their personal preferences before making a purchase.

Weight	Side Sleepers	Back Sleepers	Stomach Sleepers
Less than 130 Pounds	Soft – Medium	Medium Soft – Medium Firm	Medium Soft – Medium Firm
130 to 230 Pounds	Medium Soft – Medium Firm	Medium – Firm	Medium Firm – Firm
More than 230 Pounds	Medium – Medium Firm	Medium Firm – Firm	Medium Firm – Firm

Sleeping Position

• Side Sleepers: Side sleepers typically need a softer mattress than back or stomach sleepers. A mattress that’s too firm can irritate pressure points in the shoulders and hips. As a result, medium firm mattresses are ideal for side sleepers above 130 pounds. Those who weigh less than 130 pounds may not sink deeply enough into the mattress.
• Combination Sleepers: A medium firm mattress is suitable for combination sleepers, particularly those who switch between back and stomach sleeping. These individuals typically prefer a mattress that won’t sag near the midsection or lower back. Medium firm mattresses also provide a sturdy surface for combination sleepers to switch positions.
• Back Sleepers: Medium firm mattresses are ideal for back sleepers, particularly those between 130 and 230 pounds. The best semi firm mattress allows for enough contouring to support the lumbar spine and the space between the head and neck. Softer mattresses can cause the spine to sink out of alignment, which strains the back.
• Stomach Sleepers: Stomach sleepers generally need a firmer sleeping surface to prevent their hips and abdomen from sinking in too deeply. A medium firm mattress typically provides enough support for the midsection, while cushioning the upper body of stomach sleepers.

Body Type

Body type and sleeping position are two of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a mattress. Individuals who weigh more than 230 pounds tend to sink more deeply into soft beds, and often prefer firmer mattresses as a result. A firm mattress can contour to the natural shape of the body and support the spine.

People under 130 pounds generally need a softer mattress because they won’t sink in far enough on a firmer surface. A softer, more conforming mattress generally provides ample cushioning for pressure points.

Those weigh between 130 and 230 pounds tend to prefer a medium firm mattress, as it balances contouring with spinal support. However, sleeping position and personal preferences also play a role.

How to Shop for a Medium Firm Mattress Online

Buying a medium firm mattress online can save shoppers time that they would otherwise spend browsing in-store models and speaking with salespeople. Shoppers can also save money, as online mattress companies typically have lower overhead costs than traditional brick-and-mortar stores, and can offer high-quality mattresses at more affordable prices as a result.

If you order your mattress online and reside in the contiguous U.S., chances are the retailer will mail your “mattress in a box” free of charge via standard ground shipping. Folks in Alaska, Hawaii, and other places outside the lower 48 usually need to pay extra delivery fees.

While buying a mattress online may seem like a drawback for those who want to test out their bed in person, many companies offer generous sleep trials to mitigate these risks.

A sleep trial allows customers to try out their mattress at home, typically for 90 to 100 nights. If the mattress isn’t the best fit, most companies allow customers to return their mattress, free of charge, within that time frame. Sleep trial requirements and conditions vary between manufacturers, and it’s important to read the fine print prior to making a purchase.

Along with sleep trials, many direct-to-consumer mattress companies lower costs for consumers through free shipping, returns, and seasonal promotions. Some mattress manufacturers offer free White Glove delivery and mattress removal, which makes the setup process easier.

Ordering a mattress online is usually a quick, simple process. You can choose your preferred mattress and enter your credit card information at checkout. Some companies offer financing options for shoppers who want to split the price of the mattress into multiple payments.

Important Mattress Considerations

Mattress companies often use marketing jargon that may not accurately describe how their mattress will feel for different sleepers. This form of advertising is meant to appeal to all shoppers, without taking into account their unique body type or preferred sleep position. Rather than focusing on brand marketing, shoppers should consider the following factors when shopping for a new mattress.

Mattress Type and Materials

How a mattress feels depends on its construction and composition. A traditional innerspring mattress supports the spine and regulates temperature differently than an all-foam model. Understanding your priorities in a mattress can help narrow down the mattress types and materials you’re interested in when comparing brands and models.

Price

Sleep quality affects nearly every aspect of your life, so investing in a high-quality mattress can be beneficial. Still, most shoppers have a budget to consider when comparing mattresses. There are plenty of well-made mattresses to suit every price-point. Setting a realistic budget from the start will help you find a mattress that suits your needs.

Motion Isolation

Motion isolation is an important feature for couples who share a bed. How a mattress transfers motion can greatly impact your quality of sleep. In general, the more contouring a mattress is, the better it isolates movement. Many medium firm mattresses have foam comfort layers that help reduce motion transfer. Couples who are concerned about sleep disturbances may want to consider a memory foam mattress, which isolates motion more easily than hybrid or innerspring models.

Pressure Relief

Medium firm mattresses typically support the spine and cushion pressure points for most weight ranges. Individuals between 130 and 230 pounds are most likely to appreciate the light contouring of a medium firm mattress. A semi firm support core also helps keep the spine aligned, which contributes to a mattress’ ability to reduce aches and pains.

Edge Support

Strong edge support allows sleepers to use the entire mattress surface without feeling like they may roll off the bed. Most medium firm mattresses offer sturdy edge support. Individuals who prioritize edge support and ease of movement in a mattress may want to focus on innerspring and hybrid models, as these mattress types are more likely to have coils support cores with reinforced perimeters.

Temperature Neutrality

Sleeping comfortably through the night can be difficult on a mattress that traps heat. Individuals who tend to sleep hot often benefit from a mattress that dissipates heat and promotes air circulation. Gel-infused memory foam, individually wrapped coils, and breathable covers are a few materials that are engineered to promote temperature neutrality.

Contouring

Contouring refers to the way a mattress conforms to a person’s unique body shape. In general, foam mattresses provide better contouring than many innerspring and hybrid models, though this will depend on the comfort layers in the mattress. When combined with a sturdy support core, contouring mattresses often deliver enhanced pressure relief.

Types of Medium Firm Mattresses

How a mattress performs is affected by its construction. There are five common mattress types: hybrid, innerspring, foam, latex, and airbed. Each mattress type offers a unique set of benefits and drawbacks for different sleeping positions and weight ranges.

Each mattress category shares certain characteristics that can give you an idea of how it will feel. However, different brands and models can differ widely in terms of quality and construction, so shoppers should still research the details of a mattress before buying.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses typically blend the durability of a traditional innerspring support core with the contouring comfort of foam or latex. The bottom section, or base, of a hybrid model often contains innerspring coils, which add bounce to the mattress. The top comfort layers are usually contouring materials, like foam or latex, that conform to the shape of the body.

Medium firm mattresses tend to offer a sturdy support core and contouring comfort layers for a balance of back support and pressure relief. Back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds are likely to feel most comfortable on a medium firm hybrid mattress.

Innerspring

Innerspring mattresses primarily contain a coil support core, along with a thin amount of fiber fill or foam in its comfort layers. As a result, they’re typically firmer than other models. While innerspring mattresses typically don’t offer the same amount of contouring as foam, latex, or hybrid models, they can offer support and promote proper spinal alignment.

A medium firm innerspring mattress is suitable for most sleepers who weigh more than 130 pounds, particularly back and stomach sleepers. The relatively thin comfort layers and strong support core can prevent the spine from sinking out of alignment for these individuals.

Foam

Foam mattresses are generally constructed with multiple layers of memory foam and/or polyfoam. The support core typically includes high-density polyfoam to help support the hips and align the spine. The mattress’ comfort layers often include memory foam or softer polyfoam to cushion pressure points and contour to the shape of the body.

Medium firm foam mattresses generally provide more contouring and pressure relief than innerspring or hybrid models, making them ideal for side sleepers. That said, most people who weigh more than 230 pounds will find that a medium firm foam mattress does not prevent sinkage as well as models with coil-based cores.

Latex

Harvested from the sap of rubber trees or produced synthetically, latex is a responsive material that can add bounce to a mattress. Latex mattresses offer moderate contouring, but they don’t deliver the hug-like feel of all-foam models. The support core typically contains denser latex than its comfort layers.

Latex mattresses are a good choice for stomach sleepers looking for a medium firm feel. The mattress should be firm enough to keep the abdomen from sinking in and soft enough to cushion the chest.

Airbed

An airbed allows you to control the firmness of the mattress. Airbeds are designed with air chamber support cores that can be inflated or deflated, depending on each sleeper’s preference. These mattresses typically come with a smartphone app or remote control that allows individuals to customize firmness. Airbeds usually have comfort layers of foam, latex, or fiber fill.

Airbeds offer a higher level of customization than other models, making them suitable for nearly all sleeping positions and weight ranges.

Accessories to Complement Your Medium Firm Mattress

Once you have a medium firm mattress that suits your needs, accessories that complement your bed can help enhance your sleep quality.

Pillows

A well-constructed pillow keeps the neck supported and the head cushioned. Keeping the cervical spine (neck) aligned is crucial for pressure relief.

Side sleepers tend to prefer lofty pillows filled with down, polyester, or shredded foam or latex. These materials allow you to manipulate the pillow for maximum comfort and neck support. A medium or high loft pillow should fill the space between the neck and shoulders.

Back and stomach sleepers typically need a low loft pillow to keep the cervical spine aligned. As you shop for your best pillow, be sure to consider your unique sleep style.

Mattress Toppers

If a brand-new mattress doesn’t work with your budget, a high-quality mattress topper can be a suitable temporary solution to enhance the comfort of your existing mattress. Mattress toppers typically measure around 1 to 3 inches in height. They sit on top of your mattress, under your fitted sheet, and are made of materials like down, foam, latex, or fiber fill.

A mattress topper isn’t a permanent fix, but it can provide a more comfortable surface to sleep on if you want to adjust the firmness of your mattress. That said, it cannot repair a broken or sagging mattress.

Medium firm mattress toppers add a slightly sturdier surface to soft mattresses and deeper contouring for overly firm models. Though toppers tend to be less expensive than a new mattress, they are less durable.