When it comes to making the largest number of sleepers happy and comfortable, the medium firm mattress takes the prize. Its mid-range firmness has adequate support to prevent back pain for many sleepers and enough cushioning to alleviate pressure points. While a medium firm mattress isn’t a perfect match for everyone, it’s the most versatile firmness level and comfortable for the widest range of sleepers.

We’ll explain who is most likely to benefit from using a medium firm mattress, and which sleepers should steer clear. We’ll also provide detailed information on our top picks for the best medium firm mattress and you’ll discover how each model fared during our sleep lab testing.

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Best Overall Mattress

Helix Midnight

9.1 /10

Test Lab Score

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The Helix Midnight is tailored to fit the needs of side sleepers, with pressure-relieving memory foam that cradles the hips and shoulders. The bed also boasts strong edges and is designed with plenty of space for airflow to maintain a neutral temperature.

Price

$1,099

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

100 nights (30-night requirement)

Full Details

Who It’s Best For: In addition to side sleepers of all body types, the medium firm surface and contouring memory foam of the Helix Midnight also provide good support for back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.

Feel: This mattress is the epitome of medium firm, with progressively firmer layers that cushion to prevent pressure points but push back to support the spine.

What It’s Made Of: The Helix Midnight has a comfort system built with contouring memory foam and responsive polyfoam. These are layered over an 8-inch support core of independently wrapped coils that dole out support to the areas that need it most. A high-density polyfoam base rounds out the bed.

What We Don’t Like: As with many medium firm mattresses, the Helix Midnight lacks support for stomach sleepers.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 6653 validated customer reviews of the Helix Midnight. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Comfort and Firmness: Many reviews mention the comfort level of the mattress, indicating it is generally well-received for its balance between firmness and softness.
  • Heat Regulation: There are mixed comments regarding heat regulation, with some finding the mattress cool enough, while others still experience heat retention. We found the mattress to regulate temperature better than the average hybrid, but beds with foam comfort layers always run the risk of retaining body heat.
  • Pain Relief: A common theme is the relief from back, hip, or shoulder pain, suggesting the mattress is effective for those with chronic pain or side sleepers.
  • Durability Concerns: Some reviews express concerns about the mattress’s durability, noting issues like sagging or indentations over time.
  • Sleep Quality: Numerous reviewers state that their sleep quality has improved, mentioning deeper sleep and less discomfort during the night.
  • Edge Support: The edge support of the Helix received mixed reviews, but the overriding sentiment is that it’s firm enough to support your weight when sleeping near the edge. This backs up what we’ve found in our field and performance testing.

Best Value Mattress

DreamCloud Mattress

8.5 /10

Test Lab Score

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The DreamCloud contains several features that set it apart from the average hybrid. A moisture-wicking cashmere cover together with gel memory foam padding do a nice job of preventing heat retention and pain points, while reinforced coils strengthen the edges. All this at a very competitive price-point.

Price

$665

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

365 nights (30-night requirement)

Full Details

Who It’s Best For: We found the DreamCloud best suited to side and back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. The sturdy perimeter also enables full use of the bed’s surface area, which may be helpful for couples who share a smaller bed.

Feel: Numerous quilting components in the DreamCloud provide an initial cushioning sensation, which gently gives way to sturdy support supplied by the coils.

What It’s Made Of: The DreamCloud has a breathable cashmere blend cover quilted with cooling gel memory foam and polyfoam. This is followed by another layer of gel memory foam for added pressure relief, plus a layer of firmer gel polyfoam to keep the spine on an even plane. The support core of the mattress consists of pocketed coils that are reinforced with stronger coils around the edges and held together with a final layer of polyfoam.

What We Don’t Like: Since the comfort layers conform quite closely, stomach sleepers and those who frequently change sleeping positions may experience uncomfortable sinking on this mattress. The DreamCloud has a thicker-than-average profile, so be aware that you’ll likely have to fork out for deep pocket fitted sheets if you don’t have them already.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 8729 validated customer reviews of the DreamCloud Mattress. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Comfort and Support: Customers appreciate the hybrid design for its ability to offer both plush comfort and adequate back support.
  • Quality and Durability: Customers frequently note that the DreamCloud feels durable and well-made, often exceeding their expectations compared to other mattresses they have owned.
  • Sleep Quality: Several reviewers report significant improvements in sleep quality, including better sleep through the night and waking up feeling rested and pain-free. This is particularly noted by those who had previously experienced back pain.
  • Temperature Regulation: The mattress is often praised for its ability to maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature. Users who tend to sleep hot mention that the DreamCloud mattress does a good job of staying cool throughout the night.
  • Value for Money: Many reviewers feel that the mattress offers excellent value for the price. They are pleased with the quality and comfort relative to the cost, and some mention the benefit of financing options.
  • Edge Support: Some users note that while the overall support is good, edge support could be improved. They mention that the edges may feel less stable or supportive when sitting on the side of the bed.
  • Off-Gassing: A few reviewers mention a noticeable off-gassing smell upon unpacking the mattress, but most report that it dissipates quickly.

Most Comfortable Mattress

Leesa Sapira Hybrid

8.9 /10

Test Lab Score

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Thick foam layers in the Leesa Sapira Hybrid cushion tender areas and prevent motion from transferring across the bed. The memory foam is in the second layer, allowing it to relieve pressure without inducing the classic sinking feel of memory foam. Meanwhile, the coils add support, bounce, and cooling airflow.

Product page photo of the Leesa Sapira Hybrid

Price

$1,599

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

100 nights (30 night requirement)

Full Details

Who It’s Best For: The Leesa Sapira provides deep pressure relief for side sleepers in most weight categories. It also performs well for back sleepers, especially those weighing between 130 and 230 pounds.

Feel: Featuring a comfort system crafted with equal parts polyfoam and memory foam, the Leesa Sapira is a true medium firm mattress with a balanced feel. Coils in the support core lend it a slight bouncy touch.

What It’s Made Of: The Leesa Sapira Hybrid has four well-thought-out layers that each complete a specific function. Ventilated polyfoam in the first layer promotes airflow and bounce, with a layer of memory foam just below to provide cradling pressure relief. The support core consists of a second layer of firmer polyfoam atop 6 inches of supportive coils with reinforced edges.

What We Don’t Like: The Leesa has weaker edges than some hybrid models, which may cause feelings of instability when sleeping near or sitting on the edge of the bed.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 2257 validated customer reviews of the Leesa Sapira Hybrid. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Comfort and Support: Many reviewers mention the mattress’s blend of comfort and support, often highlighting its suitability for side and back sleepers, and its ability to alleviate or prevent pain (back, hip, or shoulder).
  • Temperature Regulation: Several users appreciate that the mattress does not retain excessive heat, making it comfortable for those who tend to sleep hot.
  • Durability and Longevity: Positive comments on how the mattress maintains its shape and comfort over several years without sagging or indentations.
  • Motion Isolation: Couples often point out the mattress’s ability to minimize motion transfer, allowing partners to move without disturbing each other.
  • Odor and Off-gassing: Some mention initial off-gassing smells upon unpacking, but most report that the odor dissipates quickly.
  • Edge Support: Good reviews on the edge support of the mattress, which is important for those who sit on the edge of the bed or sleep near the edge.
  • Value for Money: Many users feel that the mattress provides good value for the price, especially given its comfort and durability features.

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers

Nolah Evolution 15

8.8 /10

Test Lab Score

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The Nolah Evolution 15 is sold in three firmness options – the medium firm model caters to side sleepers who want pressure relief but without too much sink. To combat the heat retention, the mattress features several cooling elements, including a breathable gusset, perforatedfoam, and a coil layer that helps circulates air.

A picture of the Nolah Evolution 15 in Sleep Foundation's testing lab

Price

$1,624

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement), $99 return pickup fee

Full Details

Who It’s Best For: A thicker-than-usual comfort system in the Nolah Evoluation 15 ensures side sleepers of most body types can nestle down into the mattress without coming into uncomfortable contact with the coil layer.

Feel: All three Nolah Evolution 15 mattresses offer a deep cradle, with the medium firm (6) version striking the sweet spot to isolate motion transfer without compromising on edge support, ease of movement, or temperature neutrality.

What It’s Made Of: The Nolah Evolution 15 dedicates a full 6 inches to its comfort system, which features a quilted cotton Euro-top cover, aerated polyfoam with zoned pressure relief for the hips and shoulders, and two layers of transitional polyfoam. The support core contains pocketed coils — also zoned for better spinal support — and a high-density polyfoam base.

What We Don’t Like: Stomach sleepers, especially those weighing over 230 pounds, would benefit from a firmer surface to support the midsection.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 897 validated customer reviews of the Nolah Evolution 15. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Motion Isolation: Couples frequently mention that the mattress is good at isolating motion, making it less likely for one partner to disturb the other during the night.
  • Edge Support: The edge support of the mattress is frequently highlighted, with many finding it adequate for sitting or sleeping near the edge without feeling like they will roll off.
  • Softness: Many reviewers discuss the softness of the mattress. Some find it too soft, causing discomfort, especially for heavier individuals, while others appreciate the plushness.
  • Comfort and Support: Several users mention that the mattress provides excellent comfort and support, helping alleviate or prevent back and joint pain.
  • Heat Retention: A few reviewers note that the mattress retains heat, making it uncomfortable for some, particularly in warmer climates or for those who sleep hot.
  • Durability and Quality: Users often comment on the high quality and durability of the mattress, noting that it maintains its shape and comfort over time.

Best Luxury Mattress

Saatva Classic

9.4 /10

Test Lab Score

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The Saatva uses a dual-coil design enhanced with cushioning foams and lumbar support. Attention to detail sets the Saatva apart from the crowd. The mattress features touches an organic cotton cover, recycled steel coils, and a natural thistle fire barrier. Each mattress is also delivered with free setup and old mattress removal.

Price

$1,795

Mattress Type

Innerspring

Firmness Options

Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Trial Period

365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)

Full Details

Who It’s Best For: Side, back, and stomach sleepers above 130 pounds receive excellent support from the Saatva Luxury Firm model. The responsive surface makes this an ideal mattress for combination sleepers who frequently switch positions.

Feel: The Saatva Classic offers the bounce, breathability, and support of a traditional innerspring mattress, but it also ranks very well on pressure relief thanks to the foam comfort system.

What It’s Made Of: The Saatva Classic features an organic cotton cover on a 3-inch quilted Euro-top. The comfort system also contains a specially designed memory foam pad and spinal wire for lower back support. The support core is made up of a layer of microcoils, plus a second layer of base coils encased in a high-density polyfoam rail.

What We Don’t Like: The Luxury Firm model is a little too firm for sleepers under 130 pounds, who would be better off with the Plush Soft Saatva Classic. Saatva offers a year-long sleep trial, but a $99 handling fee is deducted in the event of a return.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

9/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

9/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6.5/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8.5/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 3308 validated customer reviews of the Saatva Classic. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Delivery Service: Positive feedback on the delivery process is common, with customers highlighting the professionalism and efficiency of the delivery teams. The white glove delivery service, including old mattress removal, is frequently praised.
  • Comfort and Support: Reviewers frequently cite the comfort and support of the Saatva Classic mattress, noting improvements in sleep quality and reductions in back pain. The availability of different firmness options caters to various preferences and needs.
  • Durability: Long-term users report that the mattress maintains its comfort and support over the years, indicating good durability and quality construction.
  • Material Quality: Customers appreciate the safe and high-quality materials used in the mattress, such as the absence of harmful chemicals and the use of organic cotton.
  • Temperature Regulation: Some reviewers specifically mention sleeping cooler on the Saatva Classic, highlighting its temperature regulation features that contribute to a more comfortable sleep.
  • Adjustability and Customization: The ability to customize the mattress for personal needs, like the split king option with different firmness levels, is a significant plus for many customers.

Best Mattress for Back Pain

Luxury Firm WinkBed

9.0 /10

Test Lab Score

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The WinkBed has a durable build that doesn’t compromise on spinal support. Targeted polyfoam padding delivers noticeable support to the lumbar area, helping prevent sinkage to keep the spine on an even plane. The mattress also has near-perfect edge support and temperature control.

Price

$1,499

Mattress Type

Innerspring

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

120 nights (30 night requirement)

Full Details

Who It’s Best For: Our testers found the WinkBed provided outstanding performance for side sleepers, particularly in the 130- to 230-pound weight range. The mattress gave a strong showing for back sleepers as well, thanks to the lumbar reinforcement that helped prevent pressure buildup in this sensitive area.

Feel: The WinkBed offers moderate contouring that quickly gives way to firmer support from the coils.

What It’s Made Of: The WinkBed has a breathable Tencel Euro-top cover quilted with several layers of polyfoam and a targeted lumbar layer for additional lower back support. With the goal of reducing back pain, WinkBeds has elected to use a triple-tempered pocketed coil support core with zoned spinal support and a reinforced perimeter.

What We Don’t Like: Sleepers may find the WinkBed Luxury Firm to be a tad on the soft side for stomach sleeping. Because of its relatively thin comfort system, this coil-based mattress may also allow movement on one side of the bed to be felt on the other sids.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 8573 validated customer reviews of the Winkbed. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Quality of Materials: The mattress is frequently described as well-made, with durable materials that contribute to a good night’s sleep.
  • Cooling Features: Some reviewers mention that the mattress does a good job of regulating temperature, providing a cooler sleep experience.
  • Edge Support: While generally satisfied with the support, a few reviewers note that edge support could be better.
  • Comfort and Support: Many reviewers praise the mattress for its comfort and support, often mentioning relief from back pain and improved sleep quality.
  • Firmness Options: Customers appreciate the variety of firmness options available, finding the right balance for their personal preferences.
  • Value for Money: Many users feel the mattress is worth the investment, offering good value for the quality and comfort provided.
  • Made in the USA: Buyers are pleased that the mattresses are made in the USA, supporting domestic manufacturing.

Best Latex Mattress

Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress

8.8 /10

Test Lab Score

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The Eco Terra Mattress supplies the cool, bouncy sleep surface we expect from a latex hybrid model. Despite its organic credentials the mattress is priced surprisingly low, putting it in reach of eco-conscious shoppers on a budget. It’s sold in medium and medium firm versions.

Price

$999

Mattress Type

Latex Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium (5), Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

90 nights (30-night requirement)

Who It’s Best For: Natural latex mattresses are popular with eco-conscious consumers, as well as anyone who values temperature control and bounce in a medium firm mattress. The Eco Terra rates highly for side sleepers over 130 pounds as well as back and stomach sleepers under 230 pounds.

Feel: The Eco Terra is characterized by its highly responsive surface — so responsive that some shoppers note how much their toddlers enjoy jumping on the bed. Our testers felt buoyed by the coils, while the wool and latex supplied pressure relief without feeling clingy.

What It’s Made Of: The Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress is thoughtfully crafted with certified organic cotton, wool, and latex over a recycled steel coil core. Tighter-wound coils around the perimeter help provide security when sitting on the edge of the bed.

What We Don’t Like: Side sleepers under 130 pounds may find the bed lacks pressure relief, while back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may find it lacks support. Motion transfer is also inherent to the latex-coil design, and may be a problem for couples if one or both people wake up easily to their partner’s movements.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

Best Mattress for Couples

Bear Elite Hybrid

8.5 /10

Test Lab Score

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We found that the medium firm model of the Bear Elite Hybrid struck a nice middle ground for couples with differing sleep preferences. This model also promotes sound sleep for both parties by keeping motion transfer to a minimum. It holds up well around the edges so you and your partner can spread out and use the full bed.

A picture of the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress in Sleep Foundation's test lab.

Price

$1,499

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night break-in period)

Full Details

Who It’s Best For: The Bear Elite Hybrid performs best for side and back sleepers, particularly those weighing between 130 and 230 pounds. Since this covers a large swathe of the population, we expect many couples to be comfortable on this mattress.

Feel: Sturdy zoned coils complement the pressure-relieving memory foam in the Bear Elite’s top layers, resulting in a balanced medium firm feel. Thanks to the phase change cover, this bed sleeps cooler than other models with memory foam, which is good news if you share the bed with a human furnace.

What It’s Made Of: The Bear Elite Hybrid features a quilted cover with cooling phase change material. Layers of copper memory foam and polyfoam provide cradling pressure relief and a touch of responsive pushback. The support core is formed by pocketed coils with zoned lumbar support and reinforced edges, which rest on a high-density polyfoam base.

What We Don’t Like: The Bear’s 14-inch profile may have trouble fitting standard sheets. As with many medium firm beds, stomach sleepers and combination sleepers may wish for a slightly firmer sleep surface.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 3703 validated customer reviews of the Bear Elite Hybrid. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Comfort and Support: Many reviewers highlight the mattress’s balance of comfort and support, often mentioning relief from back pain and improved sleep quality.
  • Firmness Options: Customers appreciate the various firmness options, with some opting for firmer versions after experiencing discomfort with medium firmness.
  • Temperature Regulation: Several reviews note the mattress’s ability to stay cool, which enhances sleep quality, especially in hot weather.
  • Size and Upgrade Options: Customers are pleased with the availability of different sizes and the option to upgrade, which provides flexibility for different needs and preferences.
  • Quality of Additional Products: Positive remarks on the quality of accompanying products like pillows and sheets, which are often included as free additions.
  • Miscellaneous: Some mixed reviews on edge support and occasional comments about the mattress being too firm or too soft for some users’ preferences.

Best Mattress for Pressure Relief

Birch Mattress

8.4 /10

Test Lab Score

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The Birch uses Talalay latex, known for having high point elasticity that allows it to mold to your body. Meanwhile, supportive coils ensure your spine stays on an even plane, preventing back pain from poor posture. Resilient and breathable materials keep the surface cool and make changing positions a breeze.

Price

$1,499

Mattress Type

Latex Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

100 nights (30-night requirement)

Full Details

Who It’s Best For: This latex hybrid mattress is ideal for side, back, and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds, and its responsive feel makes it easy to switch positions.

Feel: Wool batting and Talalay latex in the Birch evenly distribute your body weight to take pressure off sensitive areas. You won’t sink into this mattress as you would with a memory foam model, but you’ll feel highly cushioned nonetheless.

What It’s Made Of: The Birch Mattress has a stretchy organic cotton cover and two layers of wool batting to ease sleepers into the mattress. Next is a layer of soft natural latex, followed by individually wrapped coils with reinforced sides and a wool base.

What We Don’t Like: There’s a high chance of movement on one side of the bed being felt on the other, since the Birch is made with bouncy materials that don’t absorb much motion.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

We performed a meta-analysis on 1917 validated customer reviews of the Birch Mattress. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:

  • Comfort and Support: Many reviewers mention the mattress provides excellent support and comfort, particularly noting improvements in back and shoulder pain.
  • Dual Firmness: The flippable design offering a choice between firm and soft sides is frequently appreciated, allowing users to customize their sleeping experience.
  • Quality of Sleep: Numerous comments focus on improved sleep quality, with users reporting deeper sleep and fewer disturbances throughout the night.
  • Temperature Regulation: Several reviewers appreciate the mattress’s cooling properties
  • Price: Opinions on the mattress’s price vary, with some finding it a good value and others considering it somewhat expensive.
  • Weight and Maneuverability: The mattress is noted to be heavy, making it difficult to move or flip without assistance.
  • Smell and Off-gassing: A few reviewers mention an initial off-gassing smell that dissipates over time.
  • Edge Support: Mixed reviews on edge support, with some some noting it could be improved.

Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers

Sweet Zzz Honey Hybrid Mattress

8.3 /10

Test Lab Score

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It’s hard to find a more responsive mattress than the Sweet Zzz Honey Hybrid Mattress, which sports a pocketed coil design combined with resilient Dunlop latex to keep you firmly on the bed instead of sinking in. Strong edges enable full use of the available surface area, while the breathable materials ensure you never get too hot.

product image of the Sweet Zzz Honey Hybrid Mattress

Price

$1,599

Mattress Type

Latex Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Trial Period

100 nights (30-night requirement)

Full Details

Who It’s Best For: The Sweet Zzz Honey Hybrid performs equally well for side, back, and stomach sleeping for people over 130 pounds. This makes it a good choice for combination sleepers, who need a bed that can adapt to their different positions.

Feel: Quickly regains its shape to prevent any feelings of being stuck in the bed. While the initial feel can be described as firm, most sleepers receive deeper cradling pressure relief from the flexible coils, which are more numerous and have a smaller diameter than usual to allow them to accommodate every small position shift.

What It’s Made Of: The Sweet Zzz Honey is available in three models, each with a different firmness and slightly different construction. The Medium Firm model has an organic cotton quilted cover together with a natural wool flame retardant. The bulk of the comfort system is made of organic Dunlop latex, with an 8-inch support core of recycled steel coils with reinforced edges and a wool base. The mattress has a higher-than-average coil count.

What We Don’t Like: The flip side of having great responsiveness is that the mattress has less overt cushioning. This means movements may ripple across the bed, and sleepers under 130 pounds may feel pressure points. Returns incur a $99 handling fee.

Scoring & Reviews

The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

5.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

6/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Best Mattress Overall

Helix Midnight

9.1 /10

Test Lab Score

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A pillowy hybrid that hits the sweet spot between support and pressure relief.

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Best Value Mattress

DreamCloud Mattress

8.5 /10

Test Lab Score

Up to 50% off at DreamCloud

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A feature-packed medium firm hybrid that offers great bang for your buck.

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Most Comfortable Mattress

Leesa Sapira Hybrid

8.9 /10

Test Lab Score

Up to 25% off + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase

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A sturdy, well-rounded hybrid with appeal for a broad range of sleeping styles.

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Best for Side Sleepers

Nolah Evolution 15

8.8 /10

Test Lab Score

35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase

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A hybrid mattress with multi-layer zoning to prevent aches and pains.

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Best Luxury Mattress

Saatva Classic

9.4 /10

Test Lab Score

15% off orders of $1,000 or more

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A unique dual-coil hybrid design with special touches like targeted lumbar support.

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Best for Back Pain

Luxury Firm WinkBed

9.0 /10

Test Lab Score

Get $300 off all mattresses at Winkbeds

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A robust hybrid mattress with strong all-round performance.

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Best Latex Mattress

Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress

8.8 /10

Test Lab Score

$300 off at Eco Terra

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An all-natural hybrid mattress with latex’s characteristic resilient feel.

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Best Mattress for Couples

Bear Elite Hybrid

8.5 /10

Test Lab Score

35% off + free pillows with code: SF35

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A plush, pressure-relieving hybrid that absorbs motion to promote sound sleep.

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Best for Pressure Relief

Birch Mattress

8.4 /10

Test Lab Score

25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase

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A soft latex hybrid that cushions without sinking.

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Best for Combo Sleepers

Sweet Zzz Honey Hybrid Mattress

8.3 /10

Test Lab Score

10% off at Eco Terra

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A responsive hybrid made with breathable natural materials.

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Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Sleep on a Medium Firm Mattress?

A medium firm mattress provides a blend of structure and cushioning that’s comfortable for many people, particularly those between 130 and 230 pounds. To indicate a mattress’ firmness level, we use a 10-point scale that ranks 1 as the softest mattress and 10 as the firmest. With a firmness level of 6, medium firm mattresses have a balance of spinal support and plushness that’s exceptionally versatile.

Who should sleep on a medium firm mattress:

  • Side sleepers above 130 pounds: Side sleepers in this weight group often find that medium firm mattresses have enough cushioning and pressure relief to prevent sore spots from developing under the hips and shoulders.
  • Back sleepers of all weights: For many back sleepers, a medium firm mattress offers an optimal blend of spinal support and contouring.
  • Stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds: Stomach sleepers need an even sleep surface to keep their spine from curving. A medium firm mattress can typically provide this for those who weigh under 230 pounds.
  • Couples with different preferences: Because a medium firm mattress has a middle-of-the-road feel, it’s a worthwhile compromise for partners with significantly different preferences.

Who shouldn’t sleep on a medium firm mattress:

  • Infants: Experts recommend that newborns and young babies sleep on firm or extra firm crib mattresses for safety.
  • Stomach sleepers over 230 pounds: Though there are exceptions, many medium firm mattresses do not have the robust support that stomach sleepers over 230 pounds need in order to keep their midsections from sinking into their mattress.
  • People who need substantial cushioning: Medium firm mattresses typically have some cushioning and may be able to offer significant pressure relief, but the lack of deep compression can cause pressure buildup for those with significant joint pain as well as side sleepers under 130 pounds.
“My medium firm mattress provides the perfect blend of support and cushioning to keep me comfortable all night long. It’s got enough give to prevent pressure points, but enough support to keep my spine aligned.”
Headshot of author Daniel Noyed
Daniel Noyed
Senior Product Editor

What to Consider When Shopping For a Medium Firm Mattress

To find the best bed, you’ll need to first identify your needs and make sure that a medium firm mattress is the correct firmness level to address them. 

Mattress Type and Durability

Mattresses are available in several constructions with distinct characteristics that impact their firmness and feel.

Foam beds are affordable and pressure-relieving, while latex mattresses provide a responsive and durable surface. Hybrid and innerspring beds typically have strong support thanks to their coil cores, with the former offering an added level of cushioning. Airbeds are also a worthwhile consideration for their inflatable support core, allowing you to adjust the bed’s firmness level.

Regardless of which mattress type you choose, it’s important to choose a model with high-quality materials to maximize the mattress’ performance across its lifespan. A mattress with lesser-quality components can break down quickly and lose support, regardless of its type.

Sleeping Position and Body Weight

Medium firm mattresses typically work best for side sleepers over 130 pounds, most back sleepers, and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds.

Everyone needs a mattress that prioritizes spinal alignment, but each sleeping position causes weight to distribute differently on a mattress, which results in some sleeper types needing firmer support than others. Body weight is also an important factor, as more weight causes a mattress to compress. People over 230 pounds typically need firmer mattresses than those under that weight range in order to keep their spines supported.

Watch Video: How to Buy a Mattress – Why Your Body Weight Is Key

Watch our video below to learn more about choosing the right mattress for your body type.

Cushioning and Pressure Relief

A mattress’ material and firmness influence how well it cushions the body and alleviates pressure point buildup.

Medium firm mattresses typically feel slightly plush, though this can depend on a model’s exact materials. Their mid-range firmness has structure at the support core and typically includes comfort layers with at least a bit of cushioning and pressure relief. 

Back, Hip, or Shoulder Pain

Sleep-related pain can stem from numerous factors, but two of the biggest culprits are lack of support and pressure point development. An unsupportive mattress doesn’t keep your spine in an even line from head to toe, instead allowing the heavier parts of your body to sink. This can add harmful stress to your back, neck, shoulders, or hips.

Sleep Trial and Warranty

Most mattresses come with a sleep trial that allows you to try your mattress for a period of time and return it if you are not satisfied with the product. Most models also carry a warranty that, under certain circumstances, can replace faulty or defective mattresses. Check your bed’s warranty for more about its length and coverage.

Cushioning and Pressure Relief

A mattress’ material and firmness influence how well it cushions the body and alleviates pressure point buildup.

Medium firm mattresses typically feel slightly plush, though this can depend on a model’s exact materials. Their mid-range firmness has structure at the support core and typically includes comfort layers with at least a bit of cushioning and pressure relief. 

Back, Hip, or Shoulder Pain

Sleep-related pain can stem from numerous factors, but two of the biggest culprits are lack of support and pressure point development. An unsupportive mattress doesn’t keep your spine in an even line from head to toe, instead allowing the heavier parts of your body to sink. This can add harmful stress to your back, neck, shoulders, or hips.

Sleep Trial and Warranty

Most mattresses come with a sleep trial that allows you to try your mattress for a period of time and return it if you are not satisfied with the product. Most models also carry a warranty that, under certain circumstances, can replace faulty or defective mattresses. Check your bed’s warranty for more about its length and coverage.

Dive Deeper: In-Depth Mattress Guides

If you’re not sure whether a medium firm mattress is right for you, or want more guidance on finding the perfect mattress, check out more of our buying guides.

Data-Driven Results You Can Trust

Our team of sleep product experts has tested over 1,000 mattresses in our lab, including hundreds of medium firm models. In this review, we include mattresses that performed well during testing, taking care to consider our readers’ many diverse needs.

When we test mattresses, not only do we examine their materials thoroughly, but we also try the models ourselves. Our testers include side, back, and stomach sleepers from every weight group, which helps us accurately gauge how models will perform for different kinds of sleepers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a firm and medium firm mattress?

A firm mattress has a bit less cushioning than a medium firm mattress does and it feels harder as a result. Both these firmness options have solid structure within their support cores, but medium firm mattresses tend to have slightly softer comfort systems than firm models do.

How does it feel to sleep on a medium firm mattress?

Medium firm mattresses typically have support cores with significant pushback and comfort systems that soften the sleep surface. As a result, sleeping on a medium firm mattress feels supportive with a slight plush.

Who is a medium firm mattress good for?

A medium firm mattress is a good choice for people who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds as well as those who prefer a balance of cushioning and support. This firmness option has enough structure to provide spinal alignment for back sleepers of all weights, stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds, and side sleepers over 130 pounds. It’s also suitable for couples who want a model that splits the difference between their preferences.

Who should avoid sleeping on a medium firm mattress?

Side sleepers under 130 pounds may find a medium firm mattress too hard, and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds will likely think it’s too soft. Side sleepers in this weight category need deep cushioning to prevent pressure points from building, while stomach sleepers over 230 pounds need a very even sleep surface with minimal contouring to ensure that their spines don’t bend during sleep.

How can you make a mattress firmer?

You can make a mattress firmer by using a firm or extra firm mattress topper or switching to a more supportive bed frame. Choose a firm polyfoam or latex topper with minimal cushioning to make your sleep surface more supportive. If your bed frame is worn out, it may allow your mattress to sag. A new frame or updated slats can help create an even, more supportive sleep surface. If you’re within your mattress’ sleep trial, consider returning it for a firmer model.

Do hotels use medium firm mattresses?

Many hotels use medium firm mattresses because they have the broadest appeal and work for the largest number of guests. Medium firm mattresses bridge the gap between support and comfort for many sleepers and they typically have enough structure to keep most sleepers’ spines properly aligned.

Still have questions?

Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.

Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

Learn more about our Editorial Team