Can a Mattress Be Too Soft? The Facts You Need to Know Before Buying

If you are in the market for a new mattress, you have probably asked yourself this question. Can a mattress be too soft? It is a question that divides opinion. Some people love the idea of sinking into a plush, cloud-like bed at night, while others worry about back pain and discomfort. So where does the truth lie?

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about soft mattresses. We will also consider whether a soft mattress is right for you and explore the potential problems associated with choosing a bed that is too soft. 

The first thing that draws people to a soft mattress is comfort. When you lie down on a soft mattress, it feels luxurious. The bed cushions your body, hugging every curve and offering a sense of cosiness. It is easy to see why many associate a soft mattress with a good night’s sleep. You may think the smoother, the better. After all, it feels like you are floating.

For some, this feeling can be perfect. Light sleepers, those with pressure points, or anyone who likes a softer surface might find a soft mattress feels like a dream come true. It can offer relief, especially for side sleepers. The mattress gives way where your shoulders and hips need it, reducing stress on these parts of your body.

But can this be too much of a good thing?

Here is where the issue starts. Yes, a soft mattress can feel lovely, but the real question is whether it gives your body the support it needs. Support is the most crucial part of choosing the right mattress. Without it, even the softest bed will become a nightmare.

When a mattress is too soft, your body can sink in too deeply. This can lead to poor alignment of your spine. Think about it. If your hips or shoulders sink too far into the mattress, your spine bends unnaturally. This can cause all sorts of problems, from stiffness and aches to long-term back pain. No one wants to wake up in pain after what should have been a restful night.

A mattress that is too soft can also make it difficult to move around or change position while you sleep. You might find yourself stuck in one position, unable to shift without effort. This can lead to discomfort, restlessness, and disrupted sleep. Worse still, it can cause you to toss and turn all night, preventing you from getting the deep sleep your body needs to recharge.

Not everyone will experience the same issues with a soft mattress. People of different weights and sleeping styles will react differently to the level of softness.

For heavier individuals, a soft mattress might cause more problems. The heavier you are, the more you will sink into the mattress. This can throw your body out of alignment quickly, leading to discomfort and back pain. Heavier people often benefit from a firmer mattress that can support their weight without letting them sink too much.

Back and stomach sleepers may also struggle with a very soft mattress. If you sleep on your back, you need support to keep your spine in a neutral position. A mattress that gives way under your weight will force your lower back into an unnatural curve. This can lead to pain and stiffness. Similarly, stomach sleepers need a firmer surface to prevent their hips from sinking too much, which can throw the spine out of alignment and cause discomfort in the neck and lower back.

Side sleepers, on the other hand, might get away with a softer mattress. If you a side sleeper, it is best that the bed cushions your shoulders and hips while supporting the rest of your body. However, there is a balance to be found. Even side sleepers need a level of firmness to keep the spine aligned while still enjoying a softer feel where needed.

So, how do you avoid the pitfalls of a mattress that is too soft? It comes down to balance. Optimally, a mattress feels comfortable but does not sacrifice support. Think about how you sleep. Are you a side sleeper who prefers a softer feel? Or do you sleep on your back or stomach and require support to keep your spine straight?

Another factor to consider is your weight. Heavier sleepers should look for a mattress with enough firmness to support their body without letting it sink too deeply. Lighter sleepers may be able to choose a softer mattress without losing support, but they still need to be mindful of how their body feels in the morning.

For many people, the answer lies somewhere in between. A medium-firm mattress can offer the comfort of a soft mattress without sacrificing support. These mattresses often feature layers of softer material on top, with a firmer core for stability. This combination gives you the best of both worlds.

Memory foam mattresses, for example, are known for offering this balance. They contour to your body, providing a softer feel, but they also distribute weight evenly, helping to keep your spine aligned. Other hybrid mattresses combine soft pillow tops with firm innerspring layers, creating a mix of softness and support.

The answer is yes. While a soft mattress may feel like a luxurious option, it can cause problems if it does not offer enough support. The most important thing to remember is that your mattress should support your body and keep your spine in alignment, no matter how soft it feels. Do not be fooled by the initial comfort. If you wake up with aches and pains, it is not the right mattress for you.

I  am Chris, an Experienced Bed Salesman  

I am Chris Draper, and I have worked at Cheap Bed Sales as a salesman since 2021. The company has a large warehouse in Leeds, and I talk to dozens of customers every day who are looking for their perfect bed, bed base, or mattress. When it comes to mattresses, the options are very varied, and it can be confusing finding the best model depending on your sleeping patterns. However, I like to think my advice is valuable, as I am truly knowledgeable about mattress types and their features and benefits. 

As a side sleeper, I opt for a soft mattress, but this is not the best choice for everyone.  

My colleagues and I are always on hand in store or online to offer advice, so if you can’t decide what mattress firmness is the best choice for you, please contact us on the phone, or if you are in the area, come to our Leeds store.

"As a side sleeper, this mattress has transformed my sleep. It’s so comfortable, I no longer wake up with sore hips or shoulders." 

– Paula Langley

“This soft mattress is pure luxury! I feel like I’m sleeping on a cloud, and it’s made such a positive impact on my sleep quality." 

– J.P.

"I never knew sleep could feel this good. My soft mattress hugs my body perfectly and I wake feeling brand new!" 

– Maria R.