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How to Know If a Mattress Is Too Soft

The inner spring mattress was patented in 1865 but did not become standard bedding until seven decades later. On average a person spends a third of their lifetime sleeping in bed. A good night's rest is dependent on several factors including the condition of your mattress. The quality of your sleep is affected by hardness and softness.

Instructions

    • 1

      Lie down on the mattress and roll over on it. If it's hard to roll over, it's likely too soft. The mattress doesn't provide enough firmness. A bed mattress that is too soft can be difficult to get out up and out of too.

    • 2

      Lie on your back on the mattress. Slide your hand underneath the small of your back. If your hand won't fit, or there's little room between your hand and the mattress, the mattress is so soft that it's enveloping your body and not providing needed support. This type of bed mattress can also make you become too hot and sweaty because of the way it wraps around your body.

    • 3

      Sleep on the mattress for a night. If you wake up with a stiff or hurting back, the bedding is likely too soft. Aches, pains and stiffness in your back are signs the mattress is not firm enough to support your body as it should. Even if a mattress feels comfortable at first, recurring pain in your neck, back or shoulders could indicate the mattress is too soft.