6 best firm mattresses for a comfortable sleep
To help you get the good night’s sleep you deserve, we’ve narrowed several top-rated firm mattresses in Australia.
These products are hand-picked by our team to help make shopping easier. We may receive payments from third parties for sharing this content and when you purchase through links in this article. Product prices and offer details are not assured, and should be confirmed independently with the retailer. Learn more
If Goldilocks taught us anything, it’s that cloud nine looks different for everyone – and for some, a super soft and plush mattress isn’t that dreamy.
Firm mattresses can offer great support and take pressure off your joints, which is especially beneficial for office workers (and anyone who sits for long periods), according to Easy Sleep Solutions Sleep Consultant, Samantha Sadighi.
“It can help support your body as your bones take most of the pressure, relieving pressure on your muscles. It also takes pressure off the lower back, which can be a massive problem for many people,” she explained to news.com.au.
“Firmer mattresses tend to be more comfortable for back and front sleepers, whereas side sleepers might prefer a softer mattress.”
But how hard is too hard? Samantha suggests picturing yourself spending long periods of time in your favourite position to get an idea of whether a mattress will be comfortable enough.
“Does it feel comfortable? Lots of mattresses will naturally get softer with time (depending on the quality) so worth bearing this in mind. Also, if you share your bed, it’s worth trying to compromise on the firmness with your partner!” she said.
RELATED: Top mattresses for all types of sleepers
RELATED: Best bed-in-a-box mattresses to buy in 2023
To help you get the good night’s sleep you deserve, we’ve narrowed several top-rated firm mattresses in Australia including the Sealy Advantage Barbuda Firm Mattress that is currently 50 per cent off at Myer.
*All prices reflect Queen-sized options, except where stated otherwise, so make sure to jump through the links for alternative sizes and pricing.
MATTRESS FIRMNESS SCALE
To get an idea of whether a mattress is right for you, mattresses are rated against a firmness scale to indicate how soft or hard the mattress feels. The scale is numbered from one to 10 – the higher the number, the firmer the mattress. Medium firm mattresses generally sit around 6.
But keep in mind that comfort and firmness is very subjective and varies depending on factors like body weight, so view the ratings as a general guide. People with a heavier frame typically find firmer mattresses more comfortable, while those with a lighter body type may prefer a softer feel.
It’s worth noting that the firmness scale doesn’t show how well a supportive a mattress is. Support is all about how well it relieves pressure points keeps your spine aligned, while firmness mainly refers to how the surface feels.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST FIRM MATTRESS OVERALL
Sleeping Duck SD Mach II, $1749 at Sleeping Duck
Sleeping Duck SD Mach II
What You Need To Know
In a battle with your partner on how firm your mattress should be? Sleeping Duck’s SD Mach II mattress comes in a Half-Half option, which has a firm side and a medium-firm side to satisfy everyone.
This hybrid mattress features an AntiGravity surface foam for that feeling off “weightlessness”, and a multi-zoned system with twice tempered steel springs and several support zones to target different parts of the body.
“I needed a firmer mattress than hubby and had trouble finding one that suited us both. As I sleep on my stomach, my lower back was quite sore with our old mattress. I haven’t had these issues with the Sleeping Duck,” praised a shopper.
“This is the most supportive and comfortable mattress I have ever had,” raved another.
If a standard firm mattress is still a little too soft, Sleeping Duck offers an Extra Firm option. But rather than reordering a new mattress, you can just order custom made Precision Foam Pads and add it on top (like with any other topper). And don’t worry, it still has the brand’s AntiGravity layer for some softness.
(P.S Sleeping Duck also has a firmness quiz on their website to help you figure out the right firmness for you.)
What You Need To Know
If firmness is what you’re after, you can’t go wrong with this option from Mattress Crafters. Featuring exceptional support and comfort, this mattress is set to deliver your best sleep yet. On top of that, the combination of the visco-elastic foam and the pocket springs helps to ensure that you’re not only comfortable but also that the mattress is breathable too. The hybrid mattress includes both memory foam and a 2.4 coil spring system providing a plush surface and additional stability.
Other notable features include 15 year warranty, 100 night trial, CertiPur-US, meaning no harmful chemicals were used, and it’s OEKO-TEX certified, meaning it is eco-friendly.
One five-star review wrote, “We are so happy we made the choice to buy this mattress. Very firm as we excepted. Excellent quality. Super fast delivery. Five star for everything!”
Another said, “This the best mattress we’ve had so far. We needed mattress that would not dip and so far no signs of dipping. Very pleased!!”
Firm Bed Mattress, $1169 (down from $1299) at Sleep Firm
Firm Bed Mattress
What You Need To Know
Don’t want to bother with any of that plush nonsense? Sleep Firm has you covered with its Firm Bed Mattress. It sits at a nine out of 10 on the firmness scale, according to the brand, making it a true firm mattress (unlike many other mattresses on the market, which are typically medium-firm with some extra hardness).
It’s loaded with a Boomerang Foam that has been specifically designed to suit a firm bed-in-a-box style mattress. This high density foam helps improve edge support and gives it a high rebound level to prevent sagging and ensure long-lasting (firm) support.
“(T)his mattress is seriously firm. I mean, rock-solid in the best possible way. It’s like sleeping on a sturdy cloud that actually holds you up. No more sinking deep into the mattress and feeling like you’re being swallowed up. The support it provides is out of this world!” praised a reviewer.
“But don’t let the firmness fool you. This mattress still manages to be super cozy.
“Even after using it for a while, it hasn’t lost its shape or support. It’s like sleeping on a brand new mattress every night. Hats off to the folks who designed this thing. They really knew what they were doing when they made it heavy sleeper-friendly.”
BEST MEDIUM-FIRM MATTRESSES
Origin Hybrid Pro Mattress, $1449 (down from $2639) at Origin
What You Need To Know
The Origin Hybrid Pro Mattress is another option worth checking out for those who prefer a firmer feel but don’t want to commit to a true firm mattress.
With the help of Origin’s team of orthopaedics, this CertiPUR-US certified mattress is designed to offer more support in the centre third of the mattress (i.e. where most of your body weight sits) and cradle your pressure points to give your back and joints some relief. The pillowtop is also made with Tencel, ensuring your head stays cool and comfortable.
“Amazing mattress! Really cooling and comfortable. Husband and I were impressed by just how fast the mattress opens up,” a happy shopper posted online.
“Wonderful experience and mattress. Surprised by just how good the quality is … Would (definitely) recommend,” another wrote.
BEST PREMIUM FIRM MATTRESS
Sealy Advantage Barbuda Firm Mattress, $714.45 (down from $1299) at Myer
What You Need To Know
If you want to invest in a mid to high end firm mattress, it’s hard to look past this household name. The Sealy mattress features the brand’s CoreSupport System coil, which has been tempered twice for durability and long lasting support and stability. It also has an EdgeGuard to maximise your sleeping space and leave you with a stable seating edge that won’t make you feel like you’ll fall off the bed.
Many online reviewers agree the “high quality” of the Sealy mattress is noticeable, and the price is definitely reasonable compared to other premium options on the market.
Keep in mind it’s on the softer side for a firm mattress. If you’re after a super firm feel, see if you can test out the mattress in store.
“Very comfortable and the right level of firmness! A bargain price with efficient delivery!” a happy shopper posted.
Another said it “felt like a dream”.
BEST FIRM MATTRESS FOR HOT SLEEPERS
The Koala Mattress, $1250 at Koala
What You Need To Know
Another hugely popular option is The Koala Mattress. It features three-zoned support to provide pressure relief for your shoulders, hips and feet, plus a flippable mattress topper that lets you switch firmness levels by simply flipping it over. The mattress also contains Kloudcell Foam Technology to keep you cool and supported, along with Zero Disturbance to minimise motion transfer and antimicrobial protection to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mould and mildew.
“Absolutely stoked about this purchase! Hands down the best mattress I’ve ever owned,” a happy shopper posted, rating the mattress five stars.
“It was so easy to set up. My nights have been more restful than ever and it felt even better to sleep in after a few days! The delivery process was quick and seamless. Highly recommend.”
“Honestly this mattress is so comfy, cool in hot weather and best of all you can’t feel your partner moving around during the night. 10/10, highly recommended!” another wrote on Product Review.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A FIRM MATTRESS
When choosing firm mattresses to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:
Breathable: Getting hot on a summer’s night is never a good feeling so you want to make sure you do everything you can to fix it. First off, buying a mattress made from breathable materials makes a world of difference.
Partner disturbance technology: Many people buying a mattress share with a partner so we made to check for mattresses that target these types of disturbances.
Warranty: No one appreciates hearing that their warranty has run out and they’ll have to fork out an exorbitant amount of money, so this list includes mattresses with extended periods of warranty for your convenience.
Trial period: When you buy a new top, you either try it on in the shop or at have the option to return if it doesn’t fit. The same thing goes for a mattress, you want to make sure it’s a good fit for you and your sleep. We included multiple options with 100 plus night trial periods for you.
Shipping: Once you’ve decided on a new mattress you want it to arrive as soon as possible. These picks all have fairly fast delivery times to most areas.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
CAN A MATTRESS BE TOO FIRM?
Yes – Samantha says it’s important to find a balance between firm and comfortable, rather than hunting down a mattress that seems to have the hardest surface. She recommends firmer mattresses for back and tummy sleepers, while side sleepers should opt for a softer feel.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY MATTRESS IS TOO FIRM?
Of course, mattresses are a personal choice but if you find yourself walking feeling stiff this may be a sign that your mattress is too firm. But mattresses can soften over time, even in the first few months, so do give it a proper trial before making anything changes.
IS A FIRM OR SOFT MATTRESS BETTER?
This really is a personal choice but generally softer mattresses are more comfortable and can help with pressure relief. However, firm mattresses generally keep the spine more aligned and are better for those with joint pain.
More mattress coverage
More Coverage
You can also sign up to our free news.com.au checkout newsletter to stay updated on the latest trends and deals. Speaking of bargains, don’t forget to bookmark the news.com.au Coupons page for discounts on your favourite brands and retailers, like Myer, Koala and MyDeal.
‘So comfy’: Budget mattresses for a good night’s sleep
Getting better sleep doesn’t mean you have to spend big, thanks to these best budget mattresses – including a popular option that 6k highly rate.
’Believe the hype’: Top boxed mattresses worth switching to
Shoppers are ditching the traditional bed for more affordable rolled up mattresses that some say are “10 times better”.
Foam vs spring: Which mattress is right for you?
The materials your mattresses are made from matter more than you may think.
‘Seriously comfortable’ mattresses for side sleepers
Always wake up on the right side of the bed with the mattresses side sleepers ‘highly recommend’.