How to Make Your Mattress Firmer: 13 Easy Tips & Tricks

Sometimes, your mattress just isn't firm enough for the support you need. Whether you're experiencing discomfort or simply prefer a firmer sleeping surface, there are ways to make your mattress firmer without buying a new one. Here are 13 simple tips and tricks to help you achieve the firmness you desire.

1. Add a Firm Mattress Topper

A firm topper can add an extra layer of firmness. Look for memory foam, latex, or polyfoam toppers for a more solid surface.

2. Use Plywood Underneath the Mattress

Placing a sheet of plywood between your mattress and box spring can provide extra support, helping to firm up your bed.

3. Rotate the Mattress Regularly

Rotating your mattress every 3 to 6 months prevents uneven wear, ensuring a firmer, more supportive feel over time.

4. Tighten Your Mattress’s Support System

Check the box spring or bed frame to ensure it is providing proper support. Worn-out slats or a sagging box spring can make your mattress feel softer.

5. Adjust the Bed Frame or Foundation

Ensure your mattress is placed on a solid foundation. Adjustable bases or poor quality frames can cause your mattress to feel softer than it should.

6. Layer with a Mattress Pad

A high-quality mattress pad can add some firmness, especially if it’s made with supportive materials like foam or latex.

7. Use Firm Bedding Materials

Sometimes, the firmness of your mattress can be influenced by your sheets or blankets. Try using heavy cotton or flannel sheets, which can create a firmer feel.

8. Sleep in a Position That Reduces Pressure

Changing your sleep position can reduce the perception of softness. Try sleeping on your back or stomach for a firmer feel, as side sleeping tends to cause more pressure.

9. Maintain Proper Mattress Care

Regularly clean your mattress and treat it with care to prevent the fabric from becoming too soft over time.

10. Decrease the Mattress Sagging with Strategic Weight Distribution

If you’re sharing the mattress, ensure you’re distributing weight evenly to prevent areas from sagging.

11. Choose a Firmer Pillow

A firmer pillow can reduce the discomfort caused by a soft mattress, especially if you're having trouble aligning your spine.

12. Add Extra Support with a Bed Board

Using a bed board underneath your mattress can give it additional support and make it feel firmer, especially for older mattresses.

13. Replace Old Bed Accessories

Worn-out bed accessories, like pillows, box springs, or frames, can affect mattress firmness. Replacing them may improve overall mattress feel.

Table: 13 Tips for Making Your Mattress Firmer

Tip	Description	Best For
Firm Mattress Topper	Adds an extra layer of firmness to your mattress.	Those needing a quick fix for softness.
Plywood Underneath	Adds extra support to your mattress.	People with sagging mattresses.
Regular Mattress Rotation	Helps even out wear, making the mattress feel firmer.	Preventing uneven firmness.
Tighten Support System	Ensures the bed frame and box spring provide full support.	Ensuring consistent mattress support.
Adjust Bed Frame/Foundation	Provides better support for the mattress.	Those with adjustable or weak bed frames.
Mattress Pad	Adds firmness with high-quality materials.	People needing a quick, soft-firm balance.
Use Firm Bedding	Use heavier bedding to create firmer feel.	Anyone wanting to modify bed feel easily.
Change Sleeping Position	Sleeping on back or stomach helps reduce mattress softness.	Adjusting comfort level with sleep style.
Mattress Maintenance	Keep mattress clean and well-maintained.	Preventing long-term softness.
Strategic Weight Distribution	Reduces sagging by even distribution.	Couples or sleepers with heavy weight.
Use Firm Pillow	A firmer pillow may reduce the softness effect.	Sleepers with neck support needs.
Add a Bed Board	Enhances mattress support for more firmness.	Those with older, sagging mattresses.
Replace Worn Accessories	New box springs or frames offer better support.	People with old bed accessories.