So I'm around 260 lbs and looking at a new mattress. Every salesperson keeps pushing medium firm, saying it's the sweet spot for support and comfort. But when I lie on them in the store, they feel soft. Like, will I just sink through after a few months? Anyone heavier here actually happy with medium firm long term? Or is this just a sales tactic to sell the most common option?
Firmness
Is medium firm actually firm enough for heavier sleepers
Medium firm is a meaningless term. One brand's medium firm is another's marshmallow. Check the actual ILD or density specs if you can. For 260, I'd lean toward firm unless the medium has a really high-density support core.
I'm 240 and tried a medium firm from a big box store. Felt great for 3 months, then started waking up with lower back pain. The comfort layer just compressed too much. Not saying all medium firms are bad, but definitely pay attention to the support layer.
Salespeople push medium firm bcause it's the most popular and easiest to sell. Doesn't mean it's right for you. But also, firm doesn't automatically mean better support if the materials are cheap.
I'm 5'10 275 and sleep on my side. Pure firm was killingg my shoulders. I ended up with a medium firm that has a latex comfort layer and it's been great for 2 years. It's not about the label, it's about the construction. A cheap meddium firm will sag, a well-built one won't.
Medium firm is firm enough if you're not a big guy. For heavier folks, it's usually a no unless you get something with a really dense base. But honestly, mattress shopping is a crapshoot. Buy from somewhere with a good return policy.
What's your sleeping position? That matters more than weight alone. Back/side combo at 260 might do fine on a medium firm with a solid coil unit. Stomach sleeper? Go firm.
Also, ignore the 'medium firm' label and look at the coil gauge. Heavier sleepers need thicker coils (like 13-14 gauge) and higher density foam (at least 1.8 lb/ft³, ideally 2+). If a medium firm has those, it can work.
I'm 300+ and sleep on a firm mattress with a soft topper. Best of both worlds. The medium firm I tried didn't have enough support for my hips.
PillowPrincess that's a good point. Adding a topper can soften a firm bed but you can't easily firm up a soft one.
Also, check the warranty. Some warranties are void if you don't use a certain foundation. And sagging is more common with heavier sleepers. A medium firm with a strog coil system and good edge support is key.
Lots of good info here. I think I need to test more and look at specs. The store ones always feel different after 10 minutes. Maybe I'll try a firm with a topper like PillowPrincess suggested.
One more thiing: medium firm might be fine if it's a hybrid with strong coils and a thin comfort layer. But if it's all foam, forget it for heavier sleepers. Foam just doesn't hold up.