How to Make a Mattress Firmer: Tips and Tricks for Prolonged Comfort

A comfortable and supportive mattress is crucial for a good night's sleep, but what if your mattress feels a bit too soft? Whether your mattress is older or you mistakenly bought the wrong type, there are ways to make your mattress firmer and keep it that way for longer. In this article, we'll explore practical tips to help you achieve the optimal level of mattress thickness for a better night’s sleep.

Before making any adjustments, it's essential to assess your mattress's current condition. If it's relatively new and in good shape, making it firmer might be a straightforward task. However, if your mattress is old and sagging, there is no guarantee that these tips will give you that lasting firmness you are looking for. To evaluate your current mattress, you’ll want to rotate and/or flip it to see if all areas are sagging and sinking.

If you can afford a new firm mattress, we recommend this option. However, if you don't want to buy a whole new mattress, you can try these tips:

If you aren’t ready to purchase a new mattress and your current one is salvageable, adding a high-density foam or latex mattress topper will help increase firmness. Plus, you can get a special mattress topper that's specifically made for your unique needs. For example, cooling mattress toppers are great options for hot sleepers. If you are trying to make your child’s mattress firmer, you might opt for a waterproof mattress topper, perfect for little ones who may have an occasional bed-wetting accident.

There is a mattress topper out there for every need and budget to help transform your old mattress into a firm one for more restful nights.

When a mattress starts to sag and soften, it is often because the base on which it sits needs adjusting. If you have a platform bed or adjustable bed frame, check its settings. Lowering the height or adjusting the slats to be closer together can enhance mattress support, reducing the sinking feeling associated with a softer mattress. If you find that you do not have enough slats to support your mattress or some of the pieces are broken, there are plenty of budget-friendly bed frames out there that will offer more support without having to buy an entire frame and mattress setup.

We also understand that a brand new bed frame may not be a cost you anticipated, in which case, try placing a plywood board between your mattress and the box spring or bed frame. To really cut costs, you can get recycled plywood from a lumber yard or ask your friends and family if they have any they are willing to part with. This method can help reduce mattress sagging and provide additional support for a firmer feel.

Strategically place any spare pillows under your mattress cover or bedding to provide targeted support to specific areas. This DIY approach allows you to customize the firmness level based on your preferences. If discomfort persists, try placing a pillow under your lower back, legs, or hips to relieve excessive sagging in the lumbar of your back. The Comfort Wedge from Contour Products and the Back Support Pillow from As Seen on TV, are great options if you decide to go this route.

If your mattress is relatively new, check the warranty or trial period provided by the manufacturer. Some mattresses come with adjustable layers or offer a trial period during which you can request modifications or a replacement to better suit your needs.

Making your mattress firmer doesn't need to empty your wallet, nor does it need to be a frustrating endeavor. By exploring these practical tips, you can customize your current sleeping surface to better meet your needs. Experiment with different methods until you find the right combination that provides the support and comfort required for a restful night's sleep. Remember, a well-supported mattress is key to waking up refreshed and ready to tackle the day.