The 2026 Mattress Comfort Scale: Soft, Medium and Firm Explained Proper Yorkshire Style
If choosing a mattress makes you want to lie down on the shop floor and have a little cry, you’re not alone. Mattress firmness can feel like a conspiracy. One brand says soft, another says medium soft, another says firm medium soft deluxe hybrid platinum ultra. Calm down, Kevin. We just want to sleep without waking up shaped like a question mark.
That’s why Funkybedz has put together the official 2026 Mattress Comfort Scale, written in proper Yorkshire English with no nonsense, no fuss and no mattress jargon that sounds like it belongs in a sci-fi film.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly whether you need a soft, medium or firm mattress – and why it makes such a massive difference when you crawl into bed after a long day.
What Is the Mattress Comfort Scale?
The mattress comfort scale ranks mattresses based on how they feel when you lie on them. At Funkybedz, we explain it in a way your nan would understand. No fancy diagrams, just simple, practical info and a bit of cheek.
- Soft: Cloud-like squishiness.
- Medium: Balanced comfort and support. The Goldilocks favourite.
- Firm: Strong support, less sinking in.
Now let’s dig into what each one actually feels like, who it suits and which Funkybedz mattress you should be looking at if you want to sleep like a legend.
Soft Mattresses: For the Sleepers Who Love a Good Cuddle
Soft mattresses are all about plush comfort. Think of them as a warm hug from your bed. They let your body sink in just enough without swallowing you whole.
Who Soft Mattresses Are Best For
- Side sleepers who want extra cushioning around shoulders and hips.
- People under 11 stone who don’t need lots of resistance.
- Anyone who wants a “sink-in” feel rather than lying on top of the mattress.
If you wake up with sore hips or numb arms, a soft mattress might be your new best mate.
Recommended Mattress Types
Soft foams and plush pillow-top hybrids are ideal. You’ll find this style in some of our memory foam mattresses which are known for that marshmallowy feel that makes you forget you ever argued with your snooze button.
Medium Mattresses: The Proper All-Rounder
Medium mattresses are the classic choice for most folk. They offer a perfect mix of comfort and support – not too soft, not too firm, just right. Even Goldilocks would approve.
Who Medium Mattresses Are Best For
- Side and back sleepers who want a balanced feel.
- Couples with different sleep styles.
- People who don’t want to sink too deep.
Medium firmness is the sweet spot for most UK homes, especially if you’re sharing your bed with a partner who rolls around like a rotisserie chicken.
Recommended Mattress Types
The legendary pocket sprung mattresses shine here. They provide structure, bounce and breathability, perfect for those who don’t want to overheat like a Yorkshire pudding in a too-hot oven.
Firm Mattresses: Support with a Capital S
Firm mattresses keep your spine aligned while reducing sink. They don’t squish easily, so they practically push back and say “don’t worry love, I’ve got you.”
Who Firm Mattresses Are Best For
- Back and stomach sleepers who need strong support.
- People 13 stone and up who prefer a stable feel.
- Anyone with back discomfort who needs better alignment.
Firm mattresses can feel a bit too rigid at first, but once your body adjusts, you’ll wake up feeling straighter than the queue outside Greggs at breakfast time.
Recommended Mattress Types
Orthos all the way. Our orthopaedic mattresses are built for proper durability, support and posture improvement.
How to Pick the Right Firmness Level
Choosing your firmness doesn’t need to be dramatic. Here’s how to pick the right one without losing your sanity.
Step 1: Know Your Sleep Position
Your sleep style tells you everything:
- Side sleepers: Soft or medium.
- Back sleepers: Medium or firm.
- Stomach sleepers: Firm.
Step 2: Check Your Weight Range
- Under 10–11 stone: Soft to medium.
- 11–15 stone: Medium.
- 15+ stone: Medium firm or firm.
It’s not about your body, it’s about the support needed. Your mattress doesn’t judge. Only helps.
Step 3: Match Your Bed Frame
Firmness feels different depending on the frame underneath. A quality frame from our Bed Frames collection ensures your mattress sits properly and performs how it should. A wobbly old frame makes even the best mattress feel like sleeping on a trampoline held together with hope.
Signs You’re Sleeping on the Wrong Firmness
- Morning aches in your lower back.
- Hips digging into the mattress.
- Waking up hotter than a summer day in Scarborough.
- Rolling toward your partner because the middle dips.
If any of those hit home, love, it’s time to upgrade.
The Funkybedz 2026 Comfort Guarantee
We design every mattress with Yorkshire craftsmanship and real-life comfort in mind. Whether you’re choosing a soft memory foam, a medium pocket sprung or a firm orthopaedic beauty, Funkybedz has something that will make even your grumpiest mornings feel brighter.
Still unsure? Use our Sleep Calculator to find your perfect firmness and sleep pattern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a soft or firm mattress better for back pain?
Most people with back pain prefer a firm or medium firm mattress for spine alignment. However, side sleepers may benefit from medium firmness to prevent hip pressure.
How long does a mattress stay at its original firmness?
Most good mattresses last 7 to 10 years. You can track yours using our Mattress Lifespan Calculator.
Do heavier sleepers need firmer mattresses?
Generally yes, as firmer mattresses provide better long-term support and reduce sagging.
Can a mattress topper change firmness?
Yes. A topper can soften a firm mattress or add extra stability to a medium one.
Is memory foam always soft?
No. Memory foam comes in multiple firmness levels, though it always offers contouring comfort.
