How to Make My Mattress Firmer and Reduce Back Pain

Do you feel like you are sinking when you're on your bed? If your bed does not give you enough support and you wake up with all types of aches and back pains, a firmer sleep surface is likely the fix. Replacing your mattress entirely is expensive — and the truth is, you probably don't need to.

These practical tips will show you exactly how to make mattress firmer without spending thousands of dollars on a new one. We will discuss the importance of having the right support level, tips on how to make your bed firmer plus some other pro tips.

You can sleep better and avoid back pain with a firm mattress.

Why You Need A Firm Bed

Stress, using electronic devices before bed, or having the wrong kind of mattress can all cause you to lose sleep. A good, firm mattress is the foundation of a relaxing night of sleep. There are a few reasons why you might need a firmer bed. It could be that the bed you just purchased is too soft from the start. Or, after using it for a while, your mattress starts to soften over time.

It might be because the box springs or bed frame doesn't give you enough support. All of these reasons can cause sleep difficulties and body aches. That's why firming up your sleep surface matters — and the options are more affordable than you think.

Let's dig into whether a firmer or softer mattress is right for you, and why that choice affects more than just comfort.

Firm Mattress vs. Soft Mattress

Your body can maintain a straight, neutral posture with the aid of firm mattresses

You need a mattress that keeps your body in neutral alignment, which means your spine should maintain its natural curve when compared to the rest of your body, i.e. neck, back, and heels all aligned. Think of it like standing up straight — that same natural curve should follow you when you lie down. Proper alignment lets your lungs take in more oxygen, boosting your circulation and relieving pressure on your joints.

You can sleep with no muscle pressure and even improve your posture over time. The wrong support level might cause back pain and affect your sleep quality. So before you decide to purchase a new bed, finding the right mattress stiffness is vital.

The main difference between a firm and a soft mattress is the mattress' construction and materials. Most mattress companies determine stiffness using a one-to-ten scale: 6.5 is medium-firm, so anything above 6.5 is firmer, and less than 6.5 is softer.

The key difference is the feeling when you put pressure on it. A firm mattress has a more stiff feeling when pressing, while a softer mattress will sink in more easily. The ideal bed feel varies by person and depends on who's using it.

Before we get to those tips, let's talk about support level and why it matters for your body posture and back problems. To find the best one, you need to look into other factors such as body weight, sleeper size, and personal preferences.

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Why Firmness Level Is Important

For those who suffer from back pain or injuries, firmness is crucial

Having the right firmness level is key to waking up without pain. Finding the right mattress depends on your weight, your preferred sleeping posture, and any back problems. For example, a memory foam layer mattress might feel soft for a lightweight person, but it can feel firmer to a bigger sleeper.

A firm mattress works better for back sleepers, while side sleepers need a softer bed for natural spine alignment. The right support level allows you to move around more easily while relaxing your muscles. That's why it matters to know how to make mattress firmer when it is too soft for you. Here are the main benefits of a firm bed:

• Best choice for people with back problems or recovering from a back injury
• Releases pressure on the lower back while providing lumbar support
• Won't compress easily when you lay on it, giving more support for back pain
• Keeps your lower back from sinking and distributes body weight evenly
• Improves circulation while you sleep

The Right Firmness Level For You

The ideal mattress stiffness varies by person, and understanding how it differs from one body type to another will help you find the right bed. Firm beds work well for back and stomach sleepers, while plus-size sleepers also tend to benefit from a firmer surface. But the right level ultimately comes down to how your body responds — not a universal rule.

Let's find out which support level suits different body types and sleeping positions. Remember that the "right" bed feel depends on your personal preferences and specific needs.

Lightweight Sleepers

If you weigh 130 pounds or less, a soft to medium-soft mattress (level 1 to level 3) is likely your sweet spot. When a lightweight sleeper lays on a firm mattress, they might feel the pressure near their joints. You need a softer surface that provides more compression to protect your body's curves.

Average Weight Sleepers

Weigh between 130 and 230 pounds? A medium-soft to medium mattress is your best starting point. If you are a side sleeper, you might consider a medium soft mattress (level 4). If you sleep on your back or stomach, a medium (level 5) might be the best choice.

Plus-Size Sleepers

If you weigh 230 pounds or more, you'll sleep better on a firm mattress (level 6 and above) that provides more support and less compression. The stiffness supports your lower back, shoulders, and hips without sagging along with the weight.

Side Sleepers

While firm mattresses provide solid support for plus-size sleepers, side sleepers tend to prefer a softer mattress thanks to its pressure relief. As they lay on their side, there is more pressure on the shoulders and hips. The softer surface helps align the normal spine curve and prevent back problems after waking up.

Back And Stomach Sleepers

Firm mattresses help stomach sleepers maintain proper body alignment

Unlike side sleepers, back and stomach sleepers might feel best on a firm mattress. Sinking into the bed too much can lead to poor spine and body alignment. That's why they need a firmer mattress to keep everything straight and properly supported.

Combo Sleepers

If you sleep in multiple positions, think about which way you prefer most: your side, back, or stomach. You should find the proper support level for that particular position and adjust accordingly by learning how to make a mattress firmer.

Different Types Of Mattresses

Finding the right mattress can be stressful with so many beds with different features available. This section will break down the popular types of mattresses, their support levels, and lifespans.

Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring mattresses provide substantial support for the back.

Spring mattresses are the primary type of mattress. A layer of coils is surrounded by other materials such as foam, fibers, or latex to support your body. If you sleep on your back or stomach, you'll find spring mattresses comfortable as they offer strong back support. Their stiffness ranges from medium to firm, with a lifespan of five to eight years. You can find budget innerspring mattresses if you're shopping on a tight budget.

Firmness: Medium to Firm Lifespan: 5 – 8 years

Pros

• Good for back and stomach sleepers
• Provide back support
• Inexpensive options available

Cons

• Not ideal for people with back pain
• Not suitable for heavier sleepers
• Wear out easily

Foam Mattresses

Foam mattresses can adapt to the shape of the user

Foam mattresses are made from different foam materials that offer more softness than other types of mattresses. Many users noticed that a memory foam mattress molds to fit their body's shape.

Foam mattresses promote comfortable sleep, enhance blood flow, and allow you to distribute your body weight appropriately. They offer soft to medium support and are better for side sleepers. Foam mattresses tend to last longer than the traditional innerspring option.

Firmness: Soft to Medium Lifespan: 8 – 10 years

Pros

• Molds to your body shape
• More resilient than innerspring type
• Good for side sleepers

Cons

• Not enough support for some sleepers
• Can feel like you're sinking down
• Expensive

Hybrid Mattresses

Springs and foam components are combined in hybrid mattresses

A hybrid mattress combines layers of springs and foam: they include layers of soft materials like foam or cotton with spring coil layers. They provide both support and comfort for a good night's rest. You won't feel like "sinking", and hybrid mattresses are quieter than traditional spring options. Hybrid types have a longer lifespan than innerspring, from 8 to 10 years.

Firmness: Medium Lifespan: 8 – 10 years

Pros

• Softer than innerspring mattresses
• More consistent support than foam alternatives
• Quieter

Cons

• Can be expensive

Pillow Top Mattresses

If your existing mattress is too soft, a pillowtop mattress provides additional support.

Pillowtop mattresses offer an extra layer of cushion material on top of a spring, foam, or hybrid mattress. If you find your pillow top mattress too soft, there are ways to make it more supportive and firmer. Here's how to make a pillow top mattress firmer: first, you should remove the pillow top and the box spring.

Your bed frame might be why your bed isn't as firm as you'd like. You can try placing the mattress on the floor or replace the pillow top with another one with a higher number of springs for a firmer feel.

Adjustable Bed Mattresses

If you would like to alter the mattress's head and foot for more comfort or sleeping preferences, there are adjustable mattresses available on the market. Remember that not every mattress works with flexible bed frames.

Futon

Because a futon can be used as both a bed and a couch, it's a terrific way to save room.

A futon is a mattress that can transform into a couch to save space. It works well for small rooms or if you love to have guests staying over in the living room. Futons are made of layers of material like wool, latex, or cotton. You need to flip the futon at least once every two weeks to keep it in good shape. They are thinner than other kinds of mattresses, but it's smart to shop for 6 inches or higher mattresses for maximum comfort.

Pros

• Can be used as a couch/guest bed
• Inexpensive
• Foldable, therefore, save space
• Ideal for small homes

Cons

• Uncomfortable compared to other types
• Insufficient support

Waterbed Mattress

In addition to relieving strain, a waterbed mattress helps keep users warm at night

A waterbed mattress is filled with water. Back in the 1980s, you would have to fill the bed with a hose. Now there are fill tubes that help make the setup easier. You might love a waterbed if you deal with chronic pain — the warm water reduces pressure on your joints and has real therapeutic benefits. Plus, it keeps you warm during cold nights.

Pros

• The warm, heated water can relieve pain
• Therapeutic purposes

Cons

• Hard to set up
• Water can leak out
• Heavy

Air Mattress

Air mattresses are excellent for travel and temporary solutions

Due of its portability and small weight, air mattresses are widely used. They work as a short-term solution for camping and travel purposes. One thing you'll love about an air mattress is that you can adjust the stiffness. This feature works well if you have guests coming because everyone has their sleeping preference. People who experience back pains will also enjoy this customized support because you can adjust it accordingly for pain relief.

Pros

• Customized firmness
• Good for guests and campers
• Offer pain relief
• No sagging over time

Cons

• Pumps can be noisy and become faulty
• Might take a while to set up

Tips On How To Make Mattress Firmer

Finding the right mattress can be tough. You don't want to stick with a bed that's too firm or too soft, which can cause all sorts of sleep issues. However, if getting a new mattress is not in your budget right now, these tips on how to make a soft mattress firmer might help. From taking advantage of some brands' trial period to renewing your box spring, here are the fixes that actually work — and most of them cost little to nothing.

Turn Or Flip Your Mattress

Your mattress can get firmer by flipping or turning it

Some mattresses start to sag after a while, depending on the brands and types of mattresses. It could be a few months or a few years after buying. Sleeping on these mattresses can feel like getting "stuck" or "sinking" in your bed.

An easy solution is rotating it to distribute pressure across different areas of the bed. This tip prevents the bed from sagging since you will be placing pressure on different spots. If your mattress is flippable, you can flip it to the other surface. Since the other side of the bed isn't wearing out over time, it's firmer than the one you used.

Sarah tried this simple trick after noticing her mattress had softened after two years. She rotated it 180 degrees and immediately felt the difference — no more sinking in the middle. The best part? It cost her zero dollars and took less than five minutes.

Plywood Board

The bed can be made firmer by placing a board beneath the mattress

Another way to firm up your mattress is by sliding a board underneath it. With a plywood board, you get an extra layer of support underneath your mattress. A plywood board helps prevent the bed from sagging and improves support at the base of the mattress.

So before you google: "my bed too soft how to fix" — all you need is a piece of plywood. The board provides strength and makes your bed feel firmer without having to do anything to the mattress itself. Check with your mattress brand to find out if your mattress works with adding a plywood board. Some bed materials such as foam might need space to breathe at the bottom to prevent developing mold.

Trial Period

Some online mattress brands offer trial periods where you can test and try your new mattress before you decide to purchase it. Some companies give a trial that lasts from 90 to 100 days, but other brands like Nectar extend it to a year-long trial period. This offer helps if you are new to mattress shopping and you are unsure which one will suit you best.

If you find your mattress too soft or uncomfortable, you can return it within the trial period. Check with the manufacturer if your mattress is within the trial period so you can exchange for a new one or get a full refund. Some brands offer removal service free of charge and give the bed to a charity or send it through a recycling process.

Renew Your Box Spring

Instead of replacing the whole mattress, you can try renewing your box spring. The coils of your box spring can wear down after using it for an extended period, and they might lose their support. A worn-out box spring will make your bed feel softer. By getting a new box spring, you can regain firm support and add height to your bed.

This costs less than replacing your soft bed. It adds resilience and the support that your bed needs without you having to run to the store and buy a new mattress. Simply by changing the base you will make your mattress feel firmer — and stop waking up stiff every morning.

Switch The Worn-Out Layers

Some brands have mattresses with several layers of materials inside a mattress cover. If you can replace a specific layer worn out during use, you don't have to purchase a new bed which can cost a lot of money. Switching the parts that are damaged and replacing them with new ones is easier and more affordable.

You need to remove the mattress cover, check for any damaged layer, and replace them. Check with your manufacturer to see which layer you can replace and get a new part from the same brand. Not all companies will offer to swap the removable layers, so check before deciding to remove any layers from your bed.

Install A Firm Mattress Topper

A mattress topper can make your bed feel firmer

You might think that a mattress topper makes the bed softer, but some materials such as dense memory foam or latex topper can increase your bed's stiffness. Most toppers are from 2 inches to 6 inches thick, which can make your bed thicker. Some people use a firm mattress topper to help with back pain and encourage healthy spinal alignment.

At under $100 for most options, a mattress topper is one of the most cost-effective ways to firm up your sleep surface. There are many types of mattress toppers to increase durability and support. We recommend getting memory foam toppers with various support levels to adjust to your specific needs.

Check the brand guidelines to know which toppers make your bed firmer and which make it softer. For example, a mattress pad is thinner, and they help make the bed feel softer instead.

Mike, a 45-year-old back sleeper, added a 3-inch latex topper to his sagging memory foam mattress. Within the first night, his back pain dropped by about 60%. After two weeks of consistent sleep, he felt like he had a brand new mattress — all for just $89.

Our pick for the Best rated mattress topper: PlushBeds Natural Latex Topper

This mattress topper works well for users who look for stiffness with all-natural materials. Made from 100 percent natural latex, it comes in different support levels from soft to medium, medium-firm, and extra firm.

Plushbeds Latex topper provides a "floating" sensation, and it also distributes your body weight more evenly than other foam options. This latex topper is mite-resistant and odor-free, making it a solid addition to your bedding setup.

Place Mattress On The Floor

One simple way to make your mattress firm is to place it on the floor

Another easy tip that you can do without any tool is to place your mattress on the floor. Remember that there are risks of dust and insects getting under your bed. The best way is to keep your floor clean and check for any bugs or mites in your house. Sleeping with your mattress on the floor might help with blood circulation, spine alignment and prevent muscle pain.

Sometimes, a worn-out bed frame makes your bed feel softer. Placing it on the floor helps with the stiffness and adds more support without the cost of replacing your bed frame. Plus, sleeping on the ground might give you cooler air to help with body temperature rising in the middle of the night.

Keep An Eye on Room Temperature

Temperature changes in your room can affect some mattress materials such as memory foam or polyurethane foam. They can quickly soak up the heat and get soft or become harder in a colder environment. For instance, the memory foam mattress can become solid if left in freezing rooms. To make your bed firmer, try changing the room temperature or opening a window.

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Humidity & Moisture

Some mattresses can absorb the air moisture as well as the heat in your room. This can make your bed softer, and there are chances of bacteria developing too. If you live in areas with high humidity, such as the beach, get your bed out to the sun to dry out for a day. This way, you will get the stiffness back and kill any germs, viruses, allergens, or mold inside the mattress.

Pro Tips

Changing where you sleep on the mattress can help prevent your bed from sagging. If you tend to sleep on the left side, switch to the middle or the right side of the bed. Rotating your bed helps, but changing where you sleep on the bed will maintain your bed's support even better.

The next pro tip is to get a bed sheet that is the same size as your mattress. Pull the bed sheet tight from side to side to create more pressure. This will help firm your bed up.

Time To Consider A New Mattress

If you've used your mattress longer than it should, it's time to get a new one

If you tried everything above, but there is no improvement in sleep quality, it's time to get a new mattress. Especially if you have been using the mattress for more than its lifespan (which differs for each type of mattress), the bed is no longer suitable for your body.

Your Next Steps

If you find your bed too soft to sleep in, these tips on how to make mattress firmer can help you sleep better at home. Every sleeper needs a bed with balanced support and sufficient comfort.

Start with the free fixes first — flip your mattress, adjust the temperature, or try placing it on the floor. If those don't work, a $20 plywood board or a $100 mattress topper can transform your sleep without breaking the bank. You don't need a new mattress to wake up pain-free. Sometimes the simplest solution makes the biggest difference.