Woman trying to choose a mattress size
Apr 20, 2021

How to Choose: A Mattress Thickness Guide

We spend, on average, 8 hours of our day sleeping on a mattress. Choosing the right mattress isn’t a decision to be taken lightly. Not only should the material of the mattress be considered, but the thickness or height of the mattress should also be a deliberate choice.

MATTRESS THICKNESS GUIDE

Factors in choosing mattress | Mattress Thickness

Memory Foam

Memory foam mattresses have a thicker density than standard mattresses, which provides more support and comfort throughout the night. It tends to provide a true body fit, contouring around the body rather than providing a push back and a lack of contouring like standard mattresses. There are also options for temperature control, which can prevent the mattress from getting too hot.


Memory foam tends to be more allergen-friendly, as a standard mattress collects dust mites and other harmful particles—the polyurethane construction of memory foam prevents the accumulation of harmful particles. Standard mattresses can be insensitive to transitioning, which promotes tossing and turning during the night—one of the strongest aspects of a poor night of sleep. Because of the contouring properties of memory foam, it is more difficult to toss and turn during the night, thus promoting a better night of sleep and more comfort.


The Right Bed Thickness

You may be asking yourself, "How thick is a mattress?". Well mattresses are, on average, regularly 8 to 14 inches thick. There are many factors that should affect your decision to choose the right thickness:


  • Body weight
  • Height preferences
  • Medical conditions
  • Sleeping position

Bodyweight

Consider individual body weight rather than the total weight of whoever is sleeping on the mattress. People under about 225 pounds should sleep on a 9-inch mattress, as a great deal of support isn’t as necessary. People between about 225 and 275 should purchase a 10-inch mattress. Those who weigh more than 275 inches need a 12-inch mattress.


Height Preferences

Consider whether a higher mattress will be too tall for an individual and/or their pets to climb. Maybe a lower mattress makes you feel too close to the ground.


Medical Conditions

It is usually recommended that those with back pain choose a generally thinner mattress, while those with fibromyalgia, hip pain, arthritis, or body pains should pick a thicker mattress.


Sleeping Positions

If you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, click here.

If you are side a sleeper, click here.

If you sleep on your back, click here.

If you sleep on your stomach, click here.

  • Pregnant people: A pregnant sleeper who is in the later stages of pregnancy should get a firmer hybrid mattress that has at least four to six inches of memory foam on the top for better comfort and support for all sleeping positions.

    SIMMONS RECOMMENDS
    Check out this firm hybrid mattress that allows airflow through the mattress while isolating the movement of whomever is in bed next to you so you only have to worry about that sweet baby inside of you waking you up.

     



    Shop Firm Hybrid
    • Side sleepers: Someone sleeping on their side needs adequate support and cushioning for their shoulders and hips. An 8 inch-10 inch mattress with a solid core and a softer topping tends to be the best option for support.

      SIMMONS RECOMMENDS
      Check out this plush hybrid mattress that offers your shoulders and hips the right comfort and support for a great night's sleep on your side.

       



      Shop Plush Hybrid
    • Stomach sleepers: Medium firm memory foam hybrid mattresses tend to be a more solid choice for stomach sleepers. A minimum thickness of 10 inches (but up to 14) is the ideal solution, along with a more solid core for support to avoid an awkward spine position.

      SIMMONS RECOMMENDS
      Check out this medium firm hybrid mattress that will support the natural shape of your spine while sleeping on your stomach.

       



      Shop Medium Hybrid

    • Back sleepers: Those who sleep on their backs need a firmer mattress to support their back and allow them to sink into the mattress, thus supporting the contours of their body.

      SIMMONS RECOMMENDS
      Check out this firm memory foam mattress that supports your midsection and helps ensure proper alignment of your spine while you sleep.

       



      Shop Firm Memory

    Simmons has the right memory foam mattress for you, regardless of your thickness and comfort needs. Upgrade your mattress today!