Firm Mattresses

What are the different types of firm mattresses?

Firm mattresses come in a range of different types to suit all sleepers:

• Memory foam

• Pocket sprung

• Miracoil™

• Traditional sprung 

• Natural fillings

• Geltex

Whether you’re a front, side or back sleeper, prefer a more responsive feel or need to stop your partner’s night-time wriggling from disturbing your sleep, you can choose from a huge selection of firmer options here at MattressNextDay.

Memory foam

Designed for NASA’s space program, memory foam is incredibly supportive and comfortable. It moulds to the shape of your body, minimising pressure points and cradling your body for all-night comfort. Firm memory foam mattresses are usually single-sided, so they’re easy to look after, too.

Pocket sprung

A matrix of high-tensile steel springs sits in individual fabric pockets to create one of the best firm mattresses available. Each spring can act independently as well as respond to its neighbours, so movement transference is minimised. Incredibly comfortable and long-lasting.

Miracoil™

Exclusive to Silentnight, this unique system is designed to provide outstanding support with no roll-together or movement transference. Particularly suitable for front sleepers, these mattresses are top-quality options with plenty of extra comfort features.

Traditional sprung 

Using a matrix of interconnected springs, traditional sprung firm mattresses are a great budget option that provides good levels of comfort and support. They’re ideal if you want to replace a guest bed mattress and can be combined with mattress toppers for extra comfort.

Natural fillings

Using fillings such as pure wool, bamboo, and cotton, these mattresses are often naturally hypoallergenic. These are often chosen by shoppers looking for breathable materials and a fresher-feeling sleep environment.

Cooling gel and Geltex

One issue with memory foam mattresses is that they can often feel a little on the warm side. Cooling mattresses such as Geltex mattresses include a gel layer that keeps the sleeping area cooler and fresher, making them perfect for sleepers who suffer from night sweats or hot flushes.

Is a firm mattress good for your back?

Thinking about investing in a new mattress for back pain? Firm mattresses are often chosen by people looking for extra support, though comfort needs vary from person to person. If your mattress is too soft and unsupportive, you can sink into it too deeply which can cause your back to curve.

If your surface is too hard, though, you can put too much pressure on different parts of your body, leading to aches, pains and stiffness. A decent firm mattress can help support a more neutral sleeping position, helping you to keep a healthy alignment and avoid back pain, stiffness and other bodily aches. They can also be a good option for those seeking a firmer, more supportive feel.

Why should I buy a firm mattress?

Firm mattresses are ideal if you like sleeping on your back or your stomach, this kind of mattress can support your weight without causing pain to pressure points, such as your heels, toes, buttocks, ribcage, elbows, shoulders, and head. It's also the ideal mattress type for a heavy person, as it prevents your hips and shoulders from dipping too far into the mattress surface, helping maintain a more neutral sleeping position.

Comfort is a very subjective area and what might be the right resistance for one person may be completely wrong for another so it’s important to know what kind of tension suits you before you buy. Our guide to mattress firmness can help you better understand the different types available.

Do firm mattresses last longer?

Firm mattresses are just like any other mattress in that they last for approximately eight years before you need to start thinking about replacing your old mattress. We advise that single-sided mattresses (often those made from memory foam) are rotated from head to foot every six months or so to avoid dips, lumps, and bumps from forming - read our guide to turning and rotating your mattress for more help.

For double-sided mattresses, flipping and turning every few months will achieve the same effect, prolonging the life of your mattress and preventing those uncomfortable lumps from forming. The firmness rating of a mattress will not have any direct influence on how long it lasts.

What are the benefits of a firm mattress?

When using a firm mattress, you may find it easier to settle into a comfortable sleeping position. If you have been bending during the day or sitting for long periods, after a hard day's work the stability that a firm mattress supplies may help improve comfort after a long day.

Many hotels have firm mattresses throughout their rooms. Some hotels add an extra element of comfort and luxury by adding a firm memory foam mattress topper on top of the mattress. This also helps prolong the life of a mattress as well as providing an additional layer of comfort and support.

Is next-day delivery available?

With our 24-hour free delivery, your perfect firm mattresses can be at your doorstep as soon as possible. Browse our wide online selection today to explore options that are all handmade in the UK and offer the above benefits. Find out more by contacting our team who will answer any questions you may have.

If you need help choosing the right mattress firmness for you, check out our Mattress Buying Guide for tips and tricks on how to choose the best type of mattress for you.

Disclaimer: While our mattresses are designed to support healthy sleep posture, comfort is subjective. If you have a chronic medical condition or any health concerns, please consult a healthcare professional.