Choosing a mattress isn’t just about comfort—it’s about supporting your health and well-being every night. One of the most overlooked factors when shopping for a new bed is firmness.
Whether you’re a side sleeper, suffer from back pain, or prefer a plush, cloud-like feel, mattress firmness plays a key role in the quality of your sleep.
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between soft, medium, and firm mattresses, how to choose the right one based on your needs, and what Malaysians should know before buying.
What Is Mattress Firmness?
Mattress firmness refers to how soft or hard a mattress feels when you lie on it. It’s usually rated on a scale from 1 to 10:
-
1–3: Soft
-
4–6: Medium
-
7–10: Firm
This scale can vary slightly between brands, but it gives a general idea of how a mattress will feel under your body weight.
Soft Mattresses (1–3): Who Are They For?
Soft mattresses offer deep sink-in comfort and are typically made with extra cushioning layers like memory foam or plush latex.
Best for:
-
Side sleepers who need pressure relief on shoulders and hips
-
Lightweight individuals under 60 kg
-
People who enjoy a cozy, enveloping feel
May not be ideal for:
-
Back or stomach sleepers
-
Heavier individuals (it can cause improper spine alignment)
Tip: If you love the feel of hotel beds, you’re probably a fan of softer mattresses—but check if it offers enough support underneath.
Medium Mattresses (4–6): The All-Rounder
Medium-firm mattresses strike a balance between comfort and support. This is the most popular firmness level in Malaysia and works well for many types of sleepers.
Best for:
-
Couples with different sleeping preferences
-
Back sleepers needing moderate spinal support
-
People with mild back pain
May not be ideal for:
-
People needing very firm back support
-
Those who prefer a very soft sleeping surface
This is often the default choice if you're unsure what to pick.
Firm Mattresses (7–10): Solid Support
Firm mattresses offer minimal sinkage and a solid feel. They’re great for promoting spinal alignment, especially if you tend to sleep on your back or stomach.
Best for:
-
Back and stomach sleepers
-
People with chronic lower back pain
-
Heavier individuals (over 80 kg)
May not be ideal for:
-
Side sleepers (can create pressure on shoulders and hips)
-
People who enjoy a plush or cushioned surface
⚠️ A firm bed doesn’t mean it's uncomfortable—it just distributes your weight more evenly.
How to Choose the Right Firmness for You
Here’s a quick guide based on your sleeping position, body weight, and preferences:
|
Criteria |
Recommended Firmness |
|
Side Sleeper |
Soft to Medium |
|
Back Sleeper |
Medium to Firm |
|
Stomach Sleeper |
Firm |
|
Lightweight (<60 kg) |
Soft to Medium |
|
Average Weight (60–80 kg) |
Medium |
|
Heavyweight (>80 kg) |
Medium to Firm |
|
Back Pain Sufferer |
Medium to Firm |
|
Prefer “Sinking In” Feel |
Soft |
|
Prefer “Sleeping On Top” Feel |
Firm |
Matching Mattress Firmness to Your Body Type
Your body weight significantly affects how you experience mattress firmness.
| Body Weight | Feel on Soft Mattress | Feel on Firm Mattress |
|---|---|---|
| Under 60 kg | Feels soft and cosy | May feel too hard |
| 60–80 kg | Balanced on medium | Comfortable with firm support |
| Over 80 kg | May sink too much | Offers essential structure and alignment |
Heavier users will naturally compress mattresses more, making softer ones feel even softer.
What Malaysians Should Consider
Due to our humid weather, latex mattresses are popular in Malaysia as they offer better airflow and are naturally resistant to dust mites and mold. Latex also tends to feel slightly firmer than memory foam, making it a great option for tropical climates.
Local tip: Some Malaysian brands also offer dual-firmness mattresses—soft on one side, firm on the other—allowing you to flip and adjust as needed.
Can Mattress Firmness Change Over Time?
Yes, it can. A mattress might soften with use over a few years. That’s why it’s important to:
- Rotate your mattress every 3–6 months
- Choose quality materials like natural latex or high-density foam
-
Read the warranty terms (many brands cover firmness loss)
Mattress Firmness vs. Sleeping Climate in Malaysia
In Malaysia’s hot and humid climate, mattress material and firmness can also affect comfort. A firmer mattress with breathable materials like natural latex or open-cell memory foam helps regulate airflow and prevents you from feeling trapped in heat.
Soft foam mattresses tend to trap heat, which may be uncomfortable in warm rooms. To combat this:
- Choose cooling gel-infused foam
- Look for natural latex mattresses with pinhole ventilation
- Use breathable bed sheets like cotton or Tencel
Tip: Firm mattresses tend to retain less heat than plush ones due to reduced body sinkage.
Tips for Testing Mattress Firmness
When shopping online or in-store, consider these tips:
- Lie in your normal sleeping position for at least 10 minutes
- Test pressure points by noticing discomfort in hips or shoulders
- Check return policies and trial periods—many brands in Malaysia now offer 30–100 night trials
Online reviews, firmness ratings, and detailed product specs can also guide your choice. Just be cautious with mattress brands that don't publish clear firmness levels.
Final Thoughts: Comfort Starts with the Right Firmness
Mattress firmness is deeply personal. What feels perfect for someone else might not suit you at all. By understanding your sleep position, weight, and comfort preferences, you can make a smarter choice and wake up feeling truly rested.
Looking for the Perfect Mattress?
At Dr Alstone, we help Malaysians sleep better with thoughtfully designed mattresses tailored to your needs. Explore our collections online to test out different firmness levels—because a good night’s sleep starts with the right support.