Do Firm Mattresses Get Softer?
Yes, firm mattresses get softer with time. Most mattresses have a break-in period ranging from one to six months.
However, the break-in period does not make it extra soft; rather, it only tones down the firmness of a new mattress.
For you to experience a drastic change in firmness while sleeping on your firm mattress takes about 7-10 years of regular use — then the mattress breaks down to become soft, lumpy, and saggy.
How to make your firm mattress softer
If your mattress is as firm as a bench and is causing you discomfort and aches, here are some ways you can make it softer.
Check your mattress foundation
The type of foundation you place your mattress on generally affects how a mattress feels. For instance, if you place a memory foam mattress on a box spring, your mattress might feel too firm since they’re designed for innerspring mattresses. Likewise, if you place your firm mattress on the floor, it might feel extra firm.
Another thing is solid or slatted foundations tend to make a mattress feel firmer. So if you have a firm foam mattress, you might want to exchange your foundation for an adjustable base that is not as hard.
Add a mattress topper
Adding a mattress topper is the surest method of making your firm mattress softer. Mattress toppers are 1 to 3-inch pads made with plush cotton, latex, wool, feathers, or memory foam to add a layer of comfort to your mattress.
More succinctly, if your mattress is too firm for your liking, adding a 3-inch mattress topper will soften your mattress and help achieve both conforming comfort and support. On the other hand, if your mattress is slightly firm and you only need to soften it a little— you could opt for a one or 2-inch topper.
Although mattress toppers range from $100 to $300, they’re less expensive than replacing your mattress or buying a new frame.
Break-in the bed
Just like new shoes, mattresses need some time to soften up. Most mattress companies recommend trying out your new mattress for at least 30 nights before returning it. This is because regularly sleeping on your new firm mattress softens it.
Nevertheless, if you want to speed up the break-in process, we recommend walking on your mattress for a few minutes daily.
Turn up the temperature
The heating technique wonders if your firm mattress is made of memory foam. This is because memory foam reacts to external temperatures— when it’s hot, it will soften up, and when it’s cold, it will become firmer. If you’re sleeping in a cold room, raise your thermostat a few degrees to soften your mattress.
Flip your mattress
If you check your care instructions and find that your mattress has a dual side, you can flip it or rotate it. Flipping your mattress to the softer side will help you become more comfortable. Not to mention, constantly flipping your mattress helps to even out wear.
learn how to make mattress firmer
Conclusion
There you have it! If your mattress is too firm and causing body aches, you can use some methods to make it softer instead of replacing it.
