The Ultimate Guide to Firming Up Your Memory Foam Mattress
Few things compare to the indulgence of sinking into a premium memory foam mattress after an exhausting day. However, this plush comfort isn’t universally ideal. Many sleepers favor a firmer surface that supports their body without excessive sinking. While mattress preferences vary based on sleep style and personal needs, one question persists for memory foam owners: Can you make a memory foam mattress firmer?
The answer is yes—and you’re not limited to one solution.
Below, we explore practical, budget-friendly methods to transform your overly soft memory foam mattress into a firmer sleep surface.
How to Make a Memory Foam Mattress Firmer
Persistent restless nights and morning aches often drive people to search for ways to adjust their mattress firmness. Before splurging on a new bed, try these proven strategies:
- Rotate or Flip the Mattress
Even out wear and alter feel by changing its orientation. - Use a Firm Mattress Topper
Add a supportive latex or high-density foam layer. - Upgrade the Foundation
Replace sagging box springs with a rigid platform or slatted base. - Reinforce Support
Place plywood or a bunkie board beneath the mattress. - Temperature Control
Keep rooms cool—memory foam softens in heat. - Prevent Moisture Buildup
Use breathable bedding to avoid foam degradation. - Relocate the Mattress
Test if floor placement improves firmness (temporarily).
If these adjustments fail to deliver comfort, it may signal time to explore mattresses specifically engineered for firmness. Before investing, however, ensure you’ve exhausted all the above options.
#1 Flip Your Bed
To maintain mattress durability, seasonally rotating and flipping your mattress is highly recommended. This prevents sagging and body impressions, and incorporating it into your spring cleaning routine delivers immediate benefits.
While memory foam mattresses typically last up to 10 years, flipping them regularly can maximize their lifespan. This practice also creates a firmer feel by redistricting pressure points. When flipped, heavier body parts (like hips and shoulders) rest on fresh areas, reducing indentations that cause a "sinking" sensation.
The underside of a mattress is often more supportive, so try flipping it before purchasing replacements. Note: Not all mattresses are double-sided. Some are designed for single-side use only.
Persistent sagging may indicate it’s time for a new mattress.
#2 Invest in a Mattress Topper
While mattress toppers are commonly used to soften beds, many are designed to add firmness. Options include:
- Memory foam
- Latex (natural rubber sap-derived material offering firmness and responsiveness)
- Synthetic latex (budget-friendly alternative)
Choose dense memory foam or latex toppers for firmness. Thickness matters: Opt for 2–6 inch toppers to prevent sinking and ensure even weight distribution. Avoid thin mattress pads, which soften rather than firm.
Note: Brands like Eshine focus on enhancing comfort and support rather than increasing firmness, which may better address your needs.
#3 Replace the Box Spring or Platform
The box spring or platform is crucial for your mattress’s comfort and longevity. If you’re asking, “Does a memory foam mattress need a box spring or sturdy bed frame?” the answer is yes. These supports reduce pressure on the mattress, but they weaken over time.
Replacing a worn box spring is standard practice and often more cost-effective than purchasing a new mattress.
For a superior alternative, our Mattress Foundation provides an ideal base for enhanced support.
#4 Add Extra Support
A budget-friendly solution is placing plywood between your mattress and box spring (or bed frame). This creates a firm, even layer to improve mattress firmness.
However, plywood may restrict airflow, increasing mold risk—especially for foam mattresses that require ventilation. Consider this trade-off before adding support.
Luxe Series Memory Form Ultra-Plush Mattress
#5 Watch Your Thermostat
Room temperature impacts mattress firmness. For memory foam, keep your room cool—heat softens the material by causing it to expand.
While traditional memory foam can retain heat, newer models integrate cooling gel technology to stay temperature-neutral.
#6 Beware of Moisture
Humidity can soften your mattress, particularly in coastal or damp climates. If moisture is an issue, sun-dry your mattress to eliminate:
- Bacteria
- Mold
- Germs
For persistent problems, professional mattress cleaning is recommended.
#6 Move Your Mattress
Placing your mattress on the floor offers a quick, low-cost way to firm it up. While effective, be aware of drawbacks:
- Dust buildup
- Poor airflow
- Mold risk
Use a waterproof mattress protector to guard against spills and dirt if opting for this method.
The Benefits of a Firm Mattress
If you’re searching for how to make your memory foam mattress firmer, you’re probably no stranger to the specific comfort that a firm mattress offers.
A structured mattress holds your body in a neutral position, supporting the natural curve of your spine to promote spinal alignment and aligning your head, shoulders, buttocks, and heels. The ideal mattress should also provide pressure relief because of how it equally distributes your weight across its surface area.
The perfect mattress for your body can:
- Relax your muscles
- Help you sleep better
- Improve your posture.
On the other hand, if you sleep on the wrong type of mattress, it will interfere with your sleep, and you might even wake up with back pain.
On a firmer surface, your bones absorb most of the pressure of your body weight, putting less stress on your muscles, veins, and arteries. A reduction in this strain improves your circulation and allows you to sleep deeply. For many individuals, this is the perfect option!
Mattresses with a greater firmness level also prevent your lower back from collapsing, which can allow for more oxygen intake while sleeping and ensure the weight of your body is evenly distributed. Different sleepers usually prefer different types of mattresses. Because firm mattresses provide a more stable, even surface, they tend to be a better fit for:
- Back sleepers
- Stomach sleepers
About Us:
Ready to let the Adjustable Bed Mattress revolutionize your sleep and health? At Eshine, we always believe that every restful night's sleep is the best investment in life. Whether you are looking for a better sleep solution or have any questions about our products, our team is ready to guard your good night's sleep.
Contact us anytime:
Customer Service Email: support@eshinesleep.com
Exclusive Hotline: +1 909-721-9300
Official website: https://eshinesleep.com/