What firmness do stomach sleepers need?
Stomach sleeping can come with a variety of discomforts, from lower back pain to feeling as though your head is tilted too far forward. Figuring out the best mattress firmness for stomach sleepers can seem daunting, but knowing the right facts can help you choose the mattress that offers the ultimate in comfort and support.
Benefits of Firmness for Stomach Sleepers
For stomach sleepers, a firm mattress offers the highest level of comfort and support. Many mattress brands offer an array of levels of firmness, ranging from Ultra Firm (meaning the mattress is the firmest on the market) to Plush (the most comfortable mattress). Choosing the right firmness for you is important to ensure the ultimate sleep experience.
A firm mattress will support your body in a way that minimizes the amount of stress placed on your spine and other joints. It also ensures that your head is not tilted too far forward, which can cause neck pain for stomach sleepers. In addition, a firm mattress can help reduce tossing and turning, since your body isn’t sinking into the mattress as it would with a softer one.
Types of Mattresses Suitable for Stomach Sleepers
The most suitable mattresses for stomach sleepers are those that are on the firmer side of the spectrum. Memory foam, hybrid and innerspring mattresses are all available in a variety of firmness levels, so it’s important to choose the one that’s perfect for you. Memory foam mattresses typically offer substantial support, while hybrid mattresses combine springs with foam to provide a combination of comfort and support.
Tips for Finding the Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
When searching for the perfect mattress for stomach sleepers, it’s important to consider the material and construction, as well as the mattress firmness. A foam mattress will provide the most support, while a hybrid or innerspring mattress may have more cushioning. Consider your body type and sleeping style when selecting a mattress, as different materials and construction will have varying levels of support.
As for firmness, stomach sleepers should generally avoid Plush mattresses. Instead, opt for something in the middle range of firmness. You also want to make sure your mattress is thick enough to provide adequate support and prevent sagging. Most mattresses that are 8” to 12” thick will do just fine, but if you tend to move a lot while sleeping, a thicker mattress may be best.
How to Choose the Right Firmness for Stomach Sleepers
The best way to decide which mattress firmness is best for stomach sleepers is to consider how much support your body needs. If you’re a heavier person who needs more support, then opt for an Ultra Firm or Firm mattress. If you’re lighter and need less, then you may be better suited for a Medium or Plush mattress.
Another factor to consider is how much pressure you put on your body when sleeping on your stomach. If you have comforts issues due to pressure points, then it’s important to look for a mattress that offers additional cushioning and pressure-relief.
What to Look for in a Mattress for Stomach Sleeping
When shopping for a mattress for stomach sleeping, look for one that offers deep compression support and good motion isolation. Materials like memory foam and gel foams can provide enhanced support and relieve pressure points. In addition, consider features such as edge support, temperature neutrality and cooling technology, which will provide comfort no matter how hot or cold it might get.
Common Complaints among Stomach Sleepers
One of the most common complaints among stomach sleepers is lower back pain. Having too-soft of a mattress can cause sagging in the middle, which can create a “hammocking” effect that throws your spine out of alignment. This misalignment can lead to lower back pain.
Another issue some stomach sleepers have is feeling as though their head is tilted too far forward. This can lead to neck strain and reduced airflow that can leave you feeling groggy when you wake up. A too-soft mattress can exacerbate this issue.
The Role of Pillows in Supporting Stomach Sleeping
To further reduce strain on your spine, it’s important to use the right type of pillow when sleeping on your stomach. A pillow with a lower loft (a measurement of the height of the pillow) is ideal, as it won’t push your head up too much. It should also be firmer than usual, so it won’t sag down under your weight and tilt your head too far forward.
Benefits of Other Sleep Positions Over Stomach Sleeping
Though stomach sleeping can provide some benefits — especially for those with chronic neck or back pain — there are also some drawbacks. Back sleeping reduces even more strain on your spine by keeping it straight throughout the night. In addition, side sleeping prevents any strain on your neck while still providing ample support. So while stomach sleeping may provide advantages, there are also some possible risks that should be taken into consideration.
Summary and Conclusion
Finding the right mattress firmness is essential for stomach sleepers who want to experience comfort throughout the night. Opting for something on the firmer side — such as memory foam or hybrid — is generally best, and avoiding Plush mattresses is recommended. The perfect mattress should also provide deep compression support and motion isolation to reduce tossing and turning during sleep. Pillow selection is also important, as finding one with a lower loft and enough firmness to keep your head from tilting forward can be beneficial.
To ensure a great night’s sleep, consider these tips when shopping for a new mattress and find one that meets your needs for comfort, support, firmness and other factors. With proper research and knowledge of the best choices on the market, you can find the perfect mattress for a peaceful, luxurious sleep.
