Mattresses: Plush Vs. Firm

Back Support

• The inner-spring construction provides adequate back support on a mattress, which has nothing to do with how plush or firm the mattress is.

Roll Over

• Lie down on the mattress and try to roll over. If it's difficult to do, the mattress is too soft. If you lie on your back and can reach your hand underneath the small of your back, the mattress is too firm.

Coil Count

• Enjoy adequate support when you buy a mattress with the appropriate number of coils. A king-size mattress should have at least 450 coils; a queen-size mattress requires 375 coils; and a full-size mattress should have 300 coils.

Padding Type

• The padding on top of your mattress should consist of soft foam, which holds its shape better than polyester batting.

Make Yourself Comfortable

• In the store, lie on the mattress for at least 15 minutes before you buy it to determine which mattress you like best.