Why People Like Firm or Soft Mattresses

The Firmness Test

• If you have a hard time rolling over on a mattress, it's too soft. If you lie down on your back and can slide your hand underneath the small of your back, it's too firm.

Surrounded With Support

• Both firm and soft mattresses should provide adequate support, and some come with additional support in the center, head and foot of the mattress.

Number of Coils

• The right number of coils equals a quality mattress, no matter the firmness. King-size mattresses need 450 coils, 375 coils for a queen and 300 coils for a full.

Mattress Padding

• Customize the feeling of your mattress with soft foam as a top padding instead of polyester batting, which can lose its shape.

Time for Replacement

• The average person needs to replace his mattress, whether it's soft or firm, at least once every 10 years.