How to Choose the Perfect Mattress for Your Sleep Style
Choosing a new mattress is about more than finding a bed that feels comfortable in a showroom. The right mattress should match your sleeping position, preferred firmness, body support needs, temperature preferences, movement habits and overall comfort.
If you are wondering how to choose a mattress, one of the best places to start is by understanding your sleep style. Whether you are a side sleeper, back sleeper, stomach sleeper or combination sleeper, your sleeping position can influence the type of mattress and firmness level that feels most comfortable.
At Beds Crafters, you can explore mattresses in different comfort levels, sizes and constructions to find an option that suits your individual sleep preferences.
Why Your Sleep Style Matters When Choosing a Mattress
Everyone sleeps differently. Some people spend most of the night on their side, while others naturally sleep on their back or stomach. Some change positions throughout the night.
Your sleeping position affects where your body places pressure on the mattress.
For example:
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Side sleepers generally need enough cushioning around the shoulders and hips.
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Back sleepers usually benefit from balanced support that helps maintain a comfortable sleeping posture.
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Stomach sleepers often prefer a more supportive sleep surface that prevents excessive sinking.
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Combination sleepers need a responsive mattress that makes changing positions easier.
The goal is not simply to find the softest or firmest mattress. Instead, look for the right combination of comfort, support and pressure relief for the way you sleep.
1. Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
If you are primarily a side sleeper, your shoulders and hips can create more pressure against the mattress. A mattress that is too firm may feel uncomfortable because it does not provide enough cushioning around these areas.
Many side sleepers prefer a medium or medium-firm mattress that provides cushioning while still maintaining adequate support.
Memory foam can be useful for sleepers who enjoy a more contouring feel because it can adapt to the body's shape. Pocket spring mattresses with comfort layers can also provide a combination of responsiveness and pressure relief.
For example, the Dream Sleeper Memory Foam Mattress combines pocket spring support with memory foam and additional foam layers. Its construction is designed to provide pressure relief while reducing motion transfer.
What side sleepers should look for:
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Comfortable cushioning around the shoulders and hips
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Good pressure distribution
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Responsive support
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A medium to medium-firm comfort level
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A mattress that allows the spine to remain comfortably aligned
2. Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
Back sleepers need a mattress that feels supportive without creating excessive pressure. A mattress that is extremely soft may allow the body to sink too deeply, while an excessively firm surface may feel uncomfortable.
A medium or medium-firm mattress can be a practical starting point for many back sleepers because it offers a balance between cushioning and support.
The Restonic Dream Scape Medium Mattress uses individually wrapped pocket springs designed to adapt to body contours while providing targeted back and neck support. Its medium comfort feel combines cushioning with support.
When shopping for a mattress as a back sleeper, consider:
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Balanced firmness
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Supportive spring construction
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Comfortable cushioning
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Spinal support
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Even weight distribution
Remember that personal comfort matters. Two back sleepers with different body types may prefer different mattress firmness levels.
3. Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleepers often need a mattress with sufficient support to prevent the body from sinking too deeply into the sleep surface.
A medium-firm to firm mattress may be worth considering if you prefer sleeping on your stomach. The mattress should feel supportive while still providing enough comfort for a good night's sleep.
For example, the Bed Crafter Ten Star Firm Mattress features a firm comfort level and Bonnell spring system designed for stable support and spinal alignment.
Stomach sleepers may prefer:
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Firm or medium-firm support
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Less excessive sinking
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Stable surface support
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Good edge support
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A responsive feel that makes movement easy
4. Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
Do you switch between your side, back and stomach during the night?
You may be a combination sleeper.
For combination sleepers, choosing a mattress can be slightly more challenging because you need a surface that works across multiple sleeping positions.
A medium or medium-firm mattress can provide a useful balance of cushioning and responsiveness. Pocket spring mattresses are particularly worth considering because individually wrapped springs can provide responsive support while also helping reduce motion transfer.
The Restonic Reembrace Medium Mattress is described by Beds Crafters as having a balanced medium-firm feel suitable for side, back and combination sleepers.
How to Choose the Right Mattress Firmness
One of the most common mattress-buying questions is:
"Should I buy a soft, medium or firm mattress?"
There is no single firmness level that works for everyone.
Your preferred mattress firmness can depend on:
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Sleeping position
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Body weight
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Personal comfort preference
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Existing sleeping habits
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Whether you sleep alone or with a partner
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How much cushioning you prefer
Soft Mattress
A softer mattress generally provides more cushioning and a deeper, more enveloping feel.
It may appeal to sleepers who prefer a plush surface and more noticeable pressure relief.
Medium Mattress
A medium mattress offers a balance between softness and support.
It can be a versatile choice for people who change sleeping positions or share a bed with someone who has different preferences.
Beds Crafters offers several medium-comfort options, including the Master Sleep Medium Mattress, making it easier to compare medium mattresses by size and construction.
Firm Mattress
A firm mattress provides a more stable sleeping surface with less sinking.
It may appeal to people who prefer stronger support or a firmer sleeping feel.
The important thing is to avoid choosing firmness based only on a number or label. Your body should feel comfortably supported when you lie in your normal sleeping position.
Memory Foam vs Pocket Spring: Which Is Better?
Another important question when buying a mattress is whether to choose memory foam or pocket springs.
The answer depends on the type of comfort you prefer.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam is known for its contouring feel. It can respond to body weight and provide cushioning around pressure points.
It may be suitable if you prefer:
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A body-contouring feel
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Pressure relief
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Reduced movement from a partner
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A softer, cushioned sensation
Some mattresses combine memory foam with springs rather than relying on foam alone.
Pocket Spring Mattresses
Pocket springs contain individually wrapped springs that can respond independently to movement and pressure.
They can provide:
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Responsive support
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Reduced motion transfer
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Targeted support
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A more traditional spring feel
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Better airflow through the spring structure
For example, the Dreamer Pocket Spring King Mattress combines a nested pocket spring system with gel memory foam, pure foam and poly latex layers.
Hybrid Mattresses
A hybrid mattress combines different materials to create a balance between support and comfort.
For shoppers who like the support of springs but also want the cushioning of foam, a hybrid design can be worth considering.
The Dream Sleeper Hybrid Mattress is one example, combining pocket springs with memory foam and additional foam layers.
Consider Your Body Weight and Support Needs
Your body weight can influence how a mattress feels.
The same mattress may feel different to two people because body weight affects how deeply someone sinks into the comfort layers.
When comparing mattresses, check:
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Maximum recommended weight
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Mattress construction
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Firmness level
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Edge support
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Spring system
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Foam density and comfort layers
For example, the Ulanda Pocket Spring Plush Mattress has a stated capacity of up to 150 kg per side and uses a 7-zone pocket spring system with memory foam and latex layers.
This is why mattress shopping should involve more than simply looking at the price or thickness.
Think About Your Sleeping Temperature
Do you often feel hot during the night?
Your mattress construction can influence how warm or cool it feels.
Some sleepers prefer mattresses with breathable fabrics, airflow-enhancing spring systems or cooling comfort materials.
For example, Beds Crafters' Chicago Pocket Spring Mattress includes a 7-zone pocket spring system, green tea memory foam and natural latex, along with a breathable construction.
When choosing a mattress for hot sleepers, look for features such as:
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Breathable mattress covers
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Airflow through the support system
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Cooling foam technologies
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Moisture-managing fabrics
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Less heat-trapping construction
Your bedroom temperature, bedding and personal preferences also affect how warm you feel at night.
Choosing a Mattress for Couples
If you share your bed with a partner, mattress selection becomes a little more complicated.
You need to consider both people's:
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Sleeping positions
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Firmness preferences
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Body weight
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Movement during sleep
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Temperature preferences
Motion isolation can be especially important for couples. Individually wrapped pocket springs and suitable foam layers can help reduce the amount of movement transferred across the mattress.
If one partner moves frequently during the night, a mattress with good motion isolation may help minimise disturbances.
Don't Forget Mattress Size
Choosing the right mattress is not only about comfort and firmness. Size matters too.
Before buying, consider how much sleeping space you need and the size of your bedroom.
Common mattress sizes include:
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Single
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Three Quarter
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Double
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Queen
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King
If you need a larger sleeping surface, you can explore Queen Size Mattresses at Beds Crafters or compare Double Size Beds and Mattresses.
Couples should also consider whether a Queen or King mattress provides enough room for both sleepers to move comfortably.
How to Test a Mattress Before Buying
If you have the opportunity to try a mattress before purchasing, don't judge it within the first few seconds.
Instead:
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Lie down in your normal sleeping position.
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Spend several minutes on your back and side.
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Check whether your shoulders and hips feel comfortable.
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Notice whether your body feels properly supported.
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Change positions to test responsiveness.
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If buying for two people, test the mattress together.
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Ask about the mattress warranty and return or trial policy.
Beds Crafters currently highlights a 100-night comfort trial on its website, giving shoppers another factor to consider when comparing mattress options.
What Mattress Should You Choose?
There is no universal "best mattress" for everyone.
The best mattress for you is the one that matches your sleeping position, comfort preference, support requirements and lifestyle.
As a simple starting point:
| Sleep Style | Mattress Feel to Consider | Important Features |
|---|---|---|
| Side sleeper | Medium / Medium-firm | Pressure relief, cushioning |
| Back sleeper | Medium / Medium-firm | Balanced support |
| Stomach sleeper | Medium-firm / Firm | Stable support, less sinking |
| Combination sleeper | Medium / Medium-firm | Responsive and versatile |
| Hot sleeper | Medium / Any suitable firmness | Breathable materials, airflow |
| Couples | Medium / Medium-firm | Motion isolation, edge support |
These are starting points rather than strict rules. Personal comfort, body shape and individual support needs should always be considered.
Find Your Ideal Mattress at Beds Crafters
Choosing a mattress becomes much easier when you know what to look for.
Start by identifying your sleep position, then consider your preferred firmness, mattress construction, pressure relief, temperature regulation, motion isolation and size.
Whether you prefer memory foam, pocket springs, hybrid construction, a plush surface or a firmer feel, Beds Crafters offers a range of mattresses and bed sets designed for different sleep preferences.
Explore the Beds Crafters mattress collection to compare available options and find a mattress that fits your sleep style, bedroom and comfort needs.
A better night's sleep starts with choosing a mattress that works with the way you sleep—not against it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best mattress for my sleeping position?
Side sleepers often prefer mattresses with more cushioning and pressure relief, while back and stomach sleepers may prefer a more supportive surface. Combination sleepers may benefit from a responsive medium or medium-firm mattress.
Is a firm or soft mattress better?
Neither is automatically better. The right firmness depends on your sleeping position, body weight and personal comfort preference. Medium and medium-firm mattresses can provide a balance between cushioning and support.
Is memory foam better than a pocket spring mattress?
Neither construction is universally better. Memory foam provides a more contouring feel, while pocket springs offer responsive support and can help reduce motion transfer. Hybrid mattresses combine features of both.
What is the best mattress for side sleepers?
A mattress with adequate cushioning around the shoulders and hips can be a good starting point for side sleepers. Medium or medium-firm options may provide a useful balance between pressure relief and support.
What is the best mattress for back sleepers?
Back sleepers commonly look for balanced support and comfortable cushioning. Medium and medium-firm mattresses are worth considering, particularly those designed to provide targeted support.
How do I know if my mattress is too firm?
If you experience uncomfortable pressure around areas such as your shoulders and hips or struggle to settle into your usual sleeping position, the mattress may feel too firm for your preferences.
How do I know if my mattress is too soft?
If your body sinks excessively or the mattress does not feel sufficiently supportive when you sleep, it may be too soft for your needs. Consider a mattress with stronger support or a firmer comfort level.
How long should I test a mattress?
If a mattress trial is available, use as much of the trial period as possible rather than judging the mattress after one night. Your body may need time to adjust to a new sleep surface.