Memory foam mattresses feel cozy at first, but they can get too soft over time. Heat, weight, and daily use cause the foam to lose support. Instead of buying a new one, a few simple fixes can help it feel firmer again.
Before you dive into solutions, it’s important to assess whether your mattress is indeed too soft or firm. How can you tell if it’s time to firm it up? If you notice discomfort, like sinking too deeply or feeling pressure points, your mattress may be too soft, while feeling like you’re not getting enough contouring could mean it’s too firm.
A sturdy base can also help. If your mattress sits on a box spring or slats with wide gaps, placing it on a solid platform or adding plywood can add support. A firm mattress topper, like latex or high-density foam, can also help without changing the feel too much.
Temperature affects how firm memory foam feels. Keeping the room cooler stops the foam from getting too soft, so lowering the thermostat or using breathable bedding can help. Rotating the mattress every few months spreads out wear and helps it stay supportive longer.
Key Takeaways
- Memory foam mattresses may soften over time as heat, body weight, and frequent use gradually reduce their support.
- A firm mattress topper can add extra structure and stability without making the surface too rigid. Latex and high-density foam often provide the best results.
- Lower room temperatures between 60–68°F can help memory foam stay firmer since cooler conditions reduce heat-related softness.
- Placing a plywood board beneath the mattress adds support and prevents sagging caused by a weak bed frame.
- Regularly rotating or flipping the mattress distributes wear more evenly and helps maintain firmness longer.
Why Does a Memory Foam Mattress Become Too Soft?
A memory foam mattress can feel softer over time because of heat and humidity. Your body warms the foam as you sleep, so it molds to your shape. A warm room can add to this and cause the mattress to feel even less firm. Daily use also affects how firm it stays. Over time, the foam compresses under constant weight, so it may start to sag or form dips. Lower-quality foam breaks down faster, which is why some mattresses lose support sooner.
The type of foundation you use matters too. A weak or flexible bed frame can cause the mattress to sink in certain spots, so it feels softer than it should. A solid base helps keep the foam even, so it stays supportive longer.
However, not all issues are about softness. In fact, there are other reasons why a firm mattress may be hurting your back. Could it be that firmness is actually working against you, causing pressure on certain areas? Is it possible that while it feels supportive, it’s too rigid for proper alignment, leading to pain?
Use a Firm Mattress Topper
A soft memory foam mattress might feel good at first, but it can lose support over time. A firm mattress topper can help add structure without feeling too hard. Latex foam is a good choice because it’s firm and stays in shape, while high-density memory foam gives support and comfort. Polyfoam is a more affordable option that still adds firmness, but it might not last as long. No matter which one you choose, thickness matters. A topper that’s 2-4 inches thick will give the best support without being too stiff.
A firm topper helps keep your spine aligned and reduces discomfort. It also makes your mattress last longer without the need to buy a new one. If your mattress feels too soft, a topper can fix the problem easily and cost-effectively. Additionally, adding a firm mattress topper is also one of the simple hacks to make a firm mattress softer if you prefer a softer mattress for perfect balance of support and comfort.
Lower the Room Temperature
Lowering the room temperature can change how your mattress feels. Memory foam becomes softer in warm weather and firmer in cooler air. Keeping your room between 60-68°F (15-20°C) can help firm up your mattress naturally. Using a fan or air conditioner during warm months can help keep your mattress firmer. It prevents the foam from getting too soft, so you can sleep more comfortably. It’s a simple way to keep the firmness you like.
Keeping the room cool helps with sleep quality. A cooler room gives just the right balance of comfort and support all night. It’s an easy way to improve how your mattress feels and leads to a better night’s sleep. A comfortable sleep environment can help you wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day.
Place Plywood Under the Mattress
If your mattress feels too soft, the issue could be the foundation. Placing a plywood board between the mattress and the bed frame can help firm things up. This can give you a more stable and even sleeping surface. A ¾-inch-thick plywood board works best for this. Cut it to match the size of your mattress, so it sits evenly beneath. When placed correctly, it fills in the gaps and gives you a more consistent surface to sleep on, which helps with the overall feel of your mattress.
This approach can prevent sagging over time and make your bed feel more supportive. It works well, especially for those with a softer mattress that could use a little extra help. You’ll notice a firmer sleeping surface, which might just improve your quality of rest.
Replace the Box Spring or Bed Frame
A worn-out bed frame can cause your mattress to feel softer than it should. A weak frame can change the way the mattress feels. Replacing it is a simple way to get the support you need, and it’s a change you’ll notice immediately. Switching to a solid platform bed or a slatted base can improve comfort. Slats spaced no more than 3 inches apart help support the mattress better. This gives a firmer feel and keeps your bed in good shape and allows for better sleep quality overall.
Proper weight distribution is important for your mattress. Too much sinking can affect your sleep, so it’s worth getting a stronger frame. This helps the mattress stay supportive and lasts longer, which means fewer restless nights.
If you’re wondering how this ties into improving mattress firmness, a firm mattress provides support and helps maintain proper spinal alignment. So, what is a firm mattress good for and what is the difference between a firm and plush mattress? A firm mattress offers better support, while a plush mattress provides more cushioning but may not be as supportive long-term.
Flip or Rotate the Mattress
Rotating your memory foam mattress every few months is a great way to maintain its shape. It helps spread out the wear and tear, so one side doesn’t get too worn down faster than the other. It also improves comfort since you’re not sleeping on the same spot all the time.
If your mattress has a dual-sided design, flipping it can give you a firmer surface to sleep on. Switching sides can change the feel of the bed, especially when we need extra support. Sometimes, the flip provides that perfect firmness for a better night’s sleep.
Not all mattresses can be flipped, so it’s important to check what the manufacturer recommends. But even without flipping, rotating it regularly is a good habit to keep things balanced. Taking these small steps can help extend the life of your mattress and keep your sleep more consistent.
Let the Mattress Air Out
After unpacking your mattress, giving it a full 24 to 48 hours to air out can really help. We’ve found that this break allows the foam to expand fully and regain its natural shape. Without it, the mattress may feel too soft or uneven, and it won’t give you the support you need.
Letting it breathe also helps get rid of any trapped heat from being compressed. That excess warmth can make the mattress feel softer than it should, and nobody likes sleeping in heat. A little time to air out lets it cool down and restores a more comfortable, balanced feel.
Taking this extra time helps the foam last longer. When the mattress is allowed to settle properly, it reduces the chance of any discomfort or wear that can come from not letting it expand. It’s a simple step that can contribute to how the mattress feels and how long it stays in good shape.
Add a Mattress Protector
A mattress protector is a simple addition that can enhance the comfort and longevity of your mattress. A thicker and quilted protector brings a little extra firmness, so the mattress feels more supportive without losing comfort. It’s a great way to adjust the feel of your bed without buying a new one.
Bamboo fabric is one of the best choices for a mattress protector. It’s breathable, which helps regulate your temperature, keeping you cool during warmer nights. It’s durable, so you can count on it to hold up over time without wearing out quickly.
Waterproof materials are a must if you want to safeguard your mattress. It keeps spills and moisture from seeping in, which helps protect against stains and other damage. This simple solution can save you from costly repairs or needing to replace the mattress too soon.
A protector helps stabilize the surface and adds a layer of support. It’s a practical investment that shields your mattress from everyday wear while keeping it fresh and comfortable to sleep on. It really works to preserve the quality of your bed in the long run.
Invest in a New Mattress if Necessary
If your memory foam mattress is sagging or not supporting you like it used to, it might be time to consider a change. Hybrid mattresses, which combine memory foam with coils, tend to give you extra support without sacrificing comfort. This setup could be perfect for you if you need more firmness.
Latex mattresses are another option, especially if you prefer something firmer and longer-lasting. They hold their shape much better than memory foam over time, and people who have them usually find they last longer. It might be a good fit if you’re looking for durability.
A mattress should last at least 7-10 years, so if yours is older than that, it’s worth thinking about a replacement. It may seem like a big investment, but the comfort and support of a new mattress could improve your sleep for years to come.
If you’re thinking of investing in a new mattress to firm up your sleep, consider who needs a firm mattress and where to buy it. A firm mattress is perfect for those with back pain, back or stomach sleepers, or anyone who prefers extra support. You can find a variety of firm mattresses at reputable online retailers and mattress stores.
Final Thoughts
A mattress that’s too soft doesn’t have to lead to sleepless nights. You can easily restore firmness by adding a firm topper or placing plywood underneath for extra support. Adjusting the room temperature or upgrading your bed frame can also help improve the overall comfort of your sleep.
If the mattress is still too soft despite your efforts, it may be time to consider a more durable option. Higher-density memory foam or hybrid mattresses tend to offer better support, helping you sleep without worrying about sinking in. These types also last longer, ensuring you get quality rest for years to come.
So, how do you make a mattress firmer and how firm should your mattress be? These are important questions to consider. With a few adjustments, you can enjoy a much firmer and more comfortable sleep every night. The key is figuring out what works best for you and your mattress setup, so you don’t have to compromise on comfort. After all, quality sleep is something we all deserve.
