Most manufacturers describe firmness on a scale from 1 to 10:
- 1–3: Soft
- 4–6: Medium to medium-firm
- 7–10: Firm
These numbers are not industry standards and should only be used as rough comparisons.
Materials
Why Do Mattresses Have Different Firmness Levels?
Quick Answer
Mattresses are made in different firmness levels because people have different body weights, sleeping positions and comfort preferences. A mattress that feels medium to one person may feel firm or soft to someone else.
Typical firmness scale
Key Takeaways
- Firmness describes comfort, not support.
- There is no universal firmness rating across manufacturers.
- Body weight and sleeping position affect how a mattress feels.
- The best firmness is the one that keeps your spine comfortable and properly aligned.