How to firm up a mattress for greater comfort and support
As time goes on, even the firmest mattresses lose some of their support. This doesn't necessarily mean you need to go straight out and buy a new one, however. If you're wondering how to firm up a mattress, there are some practical things you can try that often work.
Read on to learn how to firm up a mattress for sturdy adult bunk beds and any other heavy-duty beds.
Why do I need to know how to firm up a mattress?
Mattress firmness determines the amount of support the occupant gets. This is important for everyone, but particularly for hospital beds and care home mattresses. This will help people get some good quality sleep and prevent discomfort from sleeping in an awkward position.
Support is extremely important in a mattress; even more so when the person sleeping is heavy. Contract beds and commercial mattresses must accommodate all types of people, which is why Reinforced Beds make heavy-duty beds for a wide range of clients. Make sure you are offering maximum comfort by installing high-quality beds and using the following guide for how to firm up a mattress.
Product: Cosmopolitan 2000
1. Try swapping to a firmer mattress
More heavy-duty mattresses may be needed to support heavier individuals in bed. If your mattress is fairly new, check if it still falls within the initial sleep trial period. You may be able to exchange it for a different, firmer mattress.
2. Add a mattress topper
If you are sticking with the same mattress, one popular solution is to add a mattress topper. This will sit on the surface of the mattress, offering additional support and comfort. There are various firmness ratings for mattress toppers and you will immediately notice the difference once one is installed.
A firmer topper is an excellent solution for how to firm up a mattress.
3. Consider adding plywood between the mattress and bed frame
A sheet of plywood or MDF placed underneath a mattress can instantly make the mattress feel firmer. That solid, even surface offers greater support and may help in preventing the mattress from dipping and sagging from repeated use.
4. Look for a new divan base
Strong adult bunk beds and heavy-duty beds start with a sturdy base. A sprung divan will not feel as firm for the occupant as a solid platform bed base. This is because the sprung base moves with the weight of the occupant. Upgrading to a platform divan base may get the most out of a firm mattress.
5. Invest in a more robust bed frame or slats
If you are not using a divan base but instead have a solid bed frame, it's possible the slats have become displaced or broker. The resulting uneven surface will compromise the firmness of your mattress, so some new slats or a replacement bed frame will address this issue.
When looking at options for a new bed frame, consider those with solid slats as they will provide that firmness you are looking for. Take a look at our heavy-duty wooden bed frames.
6. Make sure you are flipping/rotating your mattress regularly
Flipping or turning your mattress is important for maintaining an even distribution of the fillings. This will keep a mattress feeling firmer for longer and ensure it stays in good condition. Mattresses usually come with a care booklet that indicates how often they should be flipped or rotated. We have a helpful guide on how to flip a heavy mattress.
7. Ensure your bedding is always flat
A mattress will instantly feel firmer if you pull the bedding tight to the corners of the mattress. For things like commercial beds and hospital beds, this should be done regularly as standard, and it will make the mattress feel more supportive. Monitor the state of the bedding regularly and keep the sheets pulled tight.
8. Air out your mattress
The humidity in the air can dampen a mattress, making it get softer. This is very common in more humid areas like the coast. To remedy it, simply take the bedding off your mattress, open the windows and allow it to air out for as long as possible to slow down that softening.
9. Adjust the room temperature
Some mattress types, particularly foam ones, are sensitive to the temperature of their environment. Warmer temperatures cause the fillings to soften, reducing the level of support they offer. Try to maintain a cooler temperature in the room and a mattress may remain firmer.
10. If all else fails, get a new mattress
Unfortunately, all mattresses become old and worn down eventually. The methods suggested above are not cure-alls, and it may be necessary to buy a new, firmer mattress.
It is recommended to replace your mattress every 7 years. Reinforced Beds supply a range of heavy-duty mattresses aimed at providing superb support for a variety of applications no matter the weight of the occupant.
Product: Premier Pocket Contract Mattress
How to know the right mattress firmness for my needs?
Mattress firmness typically comes down to personal preference, but if you are commercial beds, contract beds, hospital beds, etc. then a higher firmness level is the best option.
- Soft-medium firmness: fine for smaller, lighter people
- Medium firmness: a good balance of comfort and support, still better for more lightweight occupants
- Medium-firm: additional support with some softness still present
- Firm: solid and supportive for heavier occupants or those with back pain
- Extra firm: maximum firmness and support, catering to the greatest number of potential occupants
Conclusion
You now have a list of practical, simple steps you can take to make a mattress firmer. As stated, if a mattress is deteriorating then nothing will make it last forever - but you may be able to extend its lifespan by taking action.
Don't ignore the importance of mattress firmness, particularly in non-domestic settings. You are responsible for providing people with beds that will keep them comfortable and offer support if they are heavier or have issues with back pain.
If you need help finding the right beds or mattresses for your needs, contact us today.