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A firm mattress is perfect for back and stomach sleepers, as it helps keep the hips and spine in neutral alignment (1). But with so many options on the market, finding the right one can be a daunting task.
Are you looking for the best firm mattresses in Australia? Look no further; we've got you covered!
In this article, we'll review some of the best firm mattresses on the market and help you decide on the right one for your needs. So let's get started with the inside scoop on Australia's best firm mattresses!
A Quick Preview
 | Best Overall - Editor’s Choice Emma Comfort Mattress | Check Current Price Read more about this mattress |
 | Best Firm Hybrid Option Newentor Hybrid Mattress | Check Current Price Read more about this mattress |
 | Best Affordable Firm Option Lazycat Spring Mattress | Check Current Price Read more about this mattress |
 | Best Cool Option The Koala Mattress | Check Current Price Read more about this mattress |
 | Best Firm Latex Option Peace Lily Mattress | Check Current Price Read more about this mattress |
The Best Firm Mattresses in Australia (November 2023)
Best Overall - Editor’s Choice — Emma Comfort Mattress
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Highlights
- Has a high-density support layer that helps keep the spine from sagging;
- Comes with pressure-relieving memory foam for adequate contouring and comfort;
- The polyfoam top layer allows excellent cross-mattress movement for combination sleepers.
The Emma mattress ranks top on our list of the best firm mattresses in Australia. This is due to its innovative pocket spring design that ensures motion isolation and the ability to meet the demands of back and side sleepers. It has a zoned memory foam top layer, which contours to the body for support and added comfort. Back sleepers will cherish the high-quality polyether foam as it helps align the spine, hips, and shoulder.
An HRX high-density foam makes up for the super supportive base of the mattress. This base also features an open-cell technology that allows hot air to escape, keeping the sleeper cool and comfortable all night long. According to my review, the Emma Comfort had a temperature of 31.7 degrees. This is cool enough that my temperature remained pleasantly neutral, and I never had excessive heat build-up issues. This is 0.1 degrees hotter than the Koala mattress, which means both have similar cooling properties to keep you feeling cool at night.
The mattress flaunts a simple yet stylish design that would look great in any bedroom. It sports a removable and washable cover for proper maintenance and longevity. The cover also ensures decent temperature regulation, which is essential for hot sleepers.
Another great feature of this model is its affordability, making it an excellent option for sleepers who want a luxury mattress at an accessible price. The Emma Comfort is $241 less expensive than the Koala. It’s also $790 cheaper than the Peace Lily, but this is an understandable price gap as the Peace Lily’s latex is typically an expensive material for mattresses. Despite these price differences, the Emma Comfort is a well-rounded firm model with its cradling Point Elastic Airgocell foam suited to a wide range of sleepers who need a firm mattress feel.
Based on Our Review
During my review, I discovered that this mattress felt supportive, and it held my body weight well. I also tested the motion isolation, and I was impressed by the results. This mattress also remained cool when I slept on it and I was impressed by the thermoregulation.
Pros:
- The zoned support system helps distribute weight evenly and alleviates pressure points;
- The breathable mattress cover is a perfect addition for those who tend to sleep hot;
- The sturdy support layer is built to last and provides excellent value for money.
Cons:
- Some might find the mattress a bit too firm, especially side sleepers;
- Low-level support around the edges, so you might experience some sagging over time.
Best Firm Hybrid Option — Newentor Hybrid Mattress
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Highlights
- The Bouncy Q Flow foam is springy and firm, helping keep you buoyant in the layers;
- The zoned coils offer targeted support, helping keep your spine on an even sleeping surface;
- The Gel-Visco Flow foam layer is slow-adaptive, helping release muscle tension.
The Newentor Hybrid is my best firm hybrid option in Australia, thanks to its minimal sinkage, bouncy coils, and excellent edge support. Minimal sinkage is essential for a firm mattress, as this means the mattress uses denser and firmer materials to support you. Luckily, this describes the Newentor Hybrid exactly. In my tests, I counted 1.9 inches of sinkage lying on the mattress. The coils balanced out the softer top layers, keeping me pleasantly buoyant.
This is 0.3 inches more compressions than the Emma Comfort, meaning the Newentor Hybrid is the better option for sleepers who want a firmer, less sinking feel to their bed.
A firm hybrid has the added benefit of incredible bounce thanks to its coils and Bouncy Q Flow foam. This can help ease movement and ensure you don’t sink too deeply. In light of my tests, I measured a total bounce of 10.8 inches. I felt springy in the top layers and was well-balanced by the ergonomic coils, allowing me to toss and turn easily.
The Newentor Hybrid is bouncer than the Koala by 3.4 inches, meaning the Newentor Hybrid is better suited to sleepers who want a firm, buoyant surface.
In addition to excellent bounce, the Newentor Hybrid’s firmness also translates to reliable edges. This can help with getting out of bed without the risk of slipping or falling. From my review, I calculated a sinkage of 3.8 inches along the edge, within the recommended max of 4 inches. I coils sit and lie on the edge without any issue and with minimal sag for durable, stable support.
The Newentor Hybrid has better edge support than the Peace Lily’s medium side by 0.5 inches, making the Newentor Hybrid better for sleepers who want firm edges and to use the full width of the mattress.
Based on Our Review
My tests show that the Newentor Hybrid is an excellent option for contouring yet firm pressure relief. I rested on my side throughout the night without waking up tingly or sore, yet the sinkage was minimal and lent to a more firm and supportive feel. The coils felt firmer around my hips, keeping me buoyant where I needed it.
Pros:
- Excellent bounce from its coils;
- Good pressure relief due to its minimal sinkage;
- Excellent edge support for reliable edges.
Cons:
- Non-removable cover;
- Too bouncy for effective motion transfer.
Best Affordable Firm Option — Lazycat Spring Mattress
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Highlights
- The budget-friendly price point is excellent for sleepers who want a firm mattress that is more accessible;
- The linen cover and breathable layers help pull heat away, keeping you cool overnight;
- This model’s minimal sinkage creates a firm feel that can support spinal alignment.
The Lazycat Spring Mattress is my best affordable firm option in Australia due to its excellent price, cool qualities, and excellent firmness. The Lazycat is $899 cheaper than the Peace Lily yet offers similar cooling and superior firmness. That makes the Lazycat a better option for sleepers who want a cheaper and firmer mattress for their home.
Cheap mattresses can sometimes feel hot. The Lazycat gets around this with its linen cover, latex, and coils, all of which help disperse heat. In light of my tests, I calculated a total of 30.4 degrees Celsius, which kept me free of night sweats and heat build-up at night.
The Lazycat had similar cooling power as compared to the Peace Lily, bested by only 0.2 degrees. The Peace Lily’s all-latex construction naturally repels heat to a high level. The fact that the Lazycat can match its temperature so closely gives merit to the Lazycat’s ability to cool at a less expensive price. It is an excellent option for sleepers looking for a cheap, cool, and firm mattress.
In addition, the Lazycat is a viable option for seekers of a firm mattress. Its latex layer and durable coils provide firm springiness that allows for only minimal sinkage. With my back pleasantly supported, I felt buoyant and more ‘on’ the mattress instead of ‘in’ it. Derived from my tests, I calculated a sinkage of just 1.7 inches. This is lower than the recommended 2-inch sinkage mark, landing the Lazycat on the firmer side of mattresses.
The Lazycat had less sinkage than the Peace Lily’s firm side by 0.17 inches, meaning the Lazycat is better for sleepers who want a minimal sinkage and a firmer feel for their spine at a more cost-effective price.
Based on Our Review
In accordance with my review, the Lazycat provided an exceptionally firm surface for me while lying down on it. Its gel memory foam layer cradled me white the latex below kept me buoyant. I felt my weight evenly spread over the coils for a firm, supportive feel that kept my spine neutral.
Pros:
- Excellent spinal support from its latex and coils;
- Excellent bounce for easy movement;
- Excellent competitive price.
Cons:
- The cover can’t be removed;
- Too springy for good motion transfer.
Best Cool Option — The Koala Mattress
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Highlights
- Medium-firm construction that is suitable for most sleeping positions;
- Latex foam construction that offers a cool sleeping platform;
- Zoned foam layer construction provides excellent motion transfer capabilities.
The Koala mattress includes cooling features that make it the best cooling mattress on this list. This mattress comprises two layers with ample cushioning and support. When I was testing this mattress, I recorded a temperature of 31.6 degrees. I felt cool enough as there was no heat build-up, mainly due to its cool-to-the-touch cover. The Koala was 0.3 degrees cooler than the Ergoflex 5G, making the Koala a better option for hot sleepers who want a firm mattress.
I also found the motion transfer on this mattress to be effective. During my review, I barely felt the movement of my review partner. Moreover, the bed also felt very cool with a breathable fabric.
I tested this mattress to absorb compressions up to about 2 inches between me and my glass of water on its medium-firm side. The firmer side absorbed slightly less at around 2.5 inches. There isn’t much difference between the two sides, but my partner felt less motion on the medium-firm side. The Koala is significantly better than the Peace Lily mattress in isolating motion, absorbing up to 6 inches more than the Peace Lily on the Koala’s medium side. That means the Koala is a better choice for partnered sleep.
Based on Our Review
This mattress cradled my joints well during testing. I also like the cooling features on the mattress. I think combo sleepers will enjoy the feel of this mattress.
Pros:
- This mattress features a medium-firm feel that will feel comfortable for most sleeper types;
- The Koala mattress features excellent motion absorption that will benefit couples;
- This mattress conformed around my body impressively and helped relieve pressure points.
Cons:
- The perimeter of the mattress sank more than other competing mattresses;
- This mattress’ bounce felt below average.
Best Firm Latex Option — Peace Lily Mattress
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Highlights
- This model’s breathable latex helps circulate air, making you feel cooler even in fluctuating temperatures;
- The balanced sinkage of the all-latex construction ensures adequate pressure relief to release muscle tension;
- Fast-acting latex layers help ensure your spine, hips, and lumbar are in healthy alignment.
The Peace Lily is my best firm latex mattress in Australia due to its natural coolness, balanced sinkage, and springy bounce. Firm mattresses sometimes have the issue of feeling too hot, like all-foam options. Luckily, the latex within the Peace Lily naturally disperses heat for cooler sleep. From my tests, the Peace Lily reached a maximum temperature of 30.3 degrees Celsius. This was cool up to the point where the perforated layers kept me cool and free of night sweats, which is necessary for hot environments like Australia. The Peace Lily was 1.6 degrees cooler than the Ergoflex 5G, making the Peace Lily better suited out of the two for hot sleepers.
One of the traits I enjoyed most regarding this model is the latex’s natural springiness and responsive cushioning. This balanced cradling made my spine feel straight and tension-free while still cradling my limbs. From my tests, I measured a sinkage of 2.01 inches on its medium side and 1.87 inches on its firm side. This is 0.04 inches firmer than the Koala on its medium-firm side and 0.06 inches firmer on its firm side. However, the Peace Lily responded 0.2 seconds faster than the Koala on both firmer sides. That means the Peace Lily and Koala share a similar sinkage level, but the Peace Lily offers a more unrestricted, supportive feel.
Sleepers who enjoy unrestricted movement will also enjoy the Peace Lily’s bounce. Latex’s springiness makes it an excellent candidate for a buoyant, ‘weightless’ feel that still feels firm. From my review, the Peace Lily had a bounce rate of 9.76 inches on its firm side and 9.01 inches on its medium side. I felt springy in the latex layers, similar to coils in hybrid mattresses, and had a high level of ease when switching positions/ The Peace Lily had 3.26 inches higher bounce than the Ergoflex 5G, making the Peace Lily better for active couples who need fast movement and a responsive feel.
Based on Our Review
When I test-tried this product, I found the latex within the Peace Lily conformed to my body slightly less than standard memory foam. However, I enjoyed the bouncy, supportive feel, and I was well-cushioned on my side.
Pros:
- Excellent non-toxic material for a healthier, safer home;
- Excellent firmness for a balanced feel and supported spine;
- Excellent coolness for hot sleepers.
Cons:
- Has a slightly expensive price point;
- Too bouncy for restless partners.
Why You Should Trust Me
I’ve researched countless mattresses in my years of studying the mattress industry. I understand what a bed needs to be the most comfortable, and I know what determining factors set mattresses apart from others. I test for qualities like pressure relief, support for the spine, and edge support. Other factors I also consider include how cooling a mattress is and how responsive it is to compressions.
I look at these qualities closely when determining which beds are the best firm mattresses in Australia. The mattresses that performed the highest in my tests were placed higher on the list. The higher the ranking, the better fit I think it is for you and your home as a firm mattress. To learn more about how I rate and test mattresses, you can read about my mattress testing methodology here.
Who Needs a Firm Mattress?
Well, the answer is simple. You need a firm mattress if you have body aches, stiffness, or pain when you wake up.
A quality firm mattress will provide your body with the support to get a good night's sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and healthy. This is especially true for strict back and stomach sleepers. Additionally, those who suffer from chronic pain or conditions like arthritis will find relief on a firm mattress.
While a firm mattress isn't for everyone, it's definitely the best choice for those who need extra support. If you're not sure if a firm mattress is right for you, consult with your doctor or sleep specialist. They'll be able to give you the best advice based on your individual needs.
If you are looking for a mattress for back pain, see our top picks here.
How to Choose the Best Firm Mattress
Here are our top tips:
Consider Your Sleeping Position and Body Type
If you're a back or stomach sleeper, you'll need a firm mattress to support your body and align your spine. On the other hand, side sleepers will need a softer mattress that contours to their curves and relieves pressure points. So you'd want to steer clear of a medium-firm mattress in Australia if you're a side sleeper, as they don't help with pressure relief.
Weight is another factor to consider. Heavier people will also need a firmer mattress to prevent sinking, while lighter people can get away with a softer option.
In my opinion, lightweight sleepers should opt for softer mattresses as a firm mattress may not feel responsive around your frame.
Learn About Different Mattress Materials
There are a variety of materials used in mattresses, such as memory foam, latex, and innerspring. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to do your research before deciding. For example, memory foam mattresses are great for those who suffer from chronic pain as they contour to the body and relieve pressure points.
However, they tend to sleep hot and might be too soft for strict back and stomach sleepers. On the other hand, latex mattresses are notorious for being one of the bounciest and most durable mattress materials. It's also a great choice for couples as it offers decent motion isolation.
Lastly, innerspring mattresses are the way to go for those who fancy having a mattress with a "traditional" feel. They're also one of the most affordable mattresses on the market.
Mattress Size
Of course, you'll also need to consider the size of your mattress. If you have a smaller bedroom, you might want to opt for a twin or full-size mattress. But if you have a larger room, you might want to go for a firm queen mattress. Just keep in mind that the bigger the mattress, the more expensive it will be. If you can go all out for a king-size mattress, then you're in for a treat. To learn more about what mattress size might suit you better, we have a list of standard mattress sizes that explains industry standard sizes and who best fit them.
In my opinion, a smaller mattress is the way to go for budget buyers because larger mattresses are more expensive.
Choose the Right Firmness Level
Mattress firmness is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer a softer mattress, while others find them too squishy and opt for a firmer one instead.
The best way to find out is to test different firmness levels in a store or through a mattress company's trial period. This way, you can see how each firmness level feels and decide based on your own preferences.
Also read: Mattress Toppers in Australia
F.A.Q.
How long does it take to adjust to a firm mattress?
It usually takes about two to three weeks to adjust to a firm mattress. However, this can vary depending on the person. Some might find it comfortable from the start, while others might need more time to get used to it.
What happens if my mattress is too firm?
If your mattress is too firm, it might cause you to experience pain in your hips, shoulders, and back. This is because there is not enough give in the mattress to contour your body.
Conclusion
There you have it! Everything you need to know about choosing the best firm mattress in Australia. Remember to consider your needs, preferences, and budget before making a final decision. Our editor's choice, the Emma Comfort Mattress, offers a perfect balance of comfort and support, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a firm mattress that keeps the spine from sagging. It's also ideal for combination sleepers as the polyfoam layer helps those who like to switch sleeping positions.
Do you have any experience with firm mattresses in Melbourne? Let us know in the comments below. Good luck and happy shopping!
References:
- The Best Mattresses for Back Sleepers. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-mattress-for-back-sleepers/
Allana Wass is the Co-Founder and Editor-in-chief at Comfybeddy. She was trained at the Spencer Institute to become a Certified Sleep Science Coach and has been featured in VeryWellMind, U.S. News, and Bustle. She has tested over 50 sleep products, which include mattresses, mattress toppers, and pillows. She has spent countless hours researching the mattress industry and learning about its cutting-edge technology for over four years, helping you improve your sleep. With her wealth of experience, she thoroughly reviews mattresses and other sleep products to give the best recommendations for each kind of sleeper.
Our research
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Mattresses Considered
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Hours of Research
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Sleep Experts Consulted
Do firm mattresses work well with adjustable bed frames, or are they better suited for a traditional bed frame?
Firm mattresses can work with adjustable bed frames, but it largely depends on the specific mattress’s design and flexibility. Some firm mattresses are compatible with adjustable bases, so it’s important to check with the mattress manufacturer or retailer to ensure compatibility. If you’re set on a firm mattress and have an adjustable bed frame, be sure to discuss this with the seller to find the best match for your needs.
Thanks for this awesome guide! I was feeling overwhelmed with all the options, but now I’m confident about choosing a firm mattress.
You’re welcome! I’m thrilled to hear that the guide helped you feel more confident in your decision.
What’s your take on latex mattresses when it comes to firmness? Are they a good choice for someone looking for a firm sleeping surface?
Latex mattresses can indeed be an excellent choice for individuals looking for firm support. Latex is known for its natural firmness, providing a sturdy and supportive sleeping surface. However, it’s essential to consider the specific type of latex used (natural or synthetic) and the mattress’s overall design.
Natural latex tends to be more durable and environmentally friendly, while synthetic latex can be more affordable. Talalay and Dunlop are the two primary latex manufacturing processes, with Dunlop typically producing denser and firmer latex.
What’s your advice on trying out firm mattresses before making a decision, especially when shopping online? Any tips for ensuring a good fit without physically testing the mattress?
Here are some tips to help ensure a good fit:
Remember that comfort is subjective, so what feels firm to one person may not be the same for another. The trial period is your best opportunity to test the mattress in your own home and decide if it’s the right fit for you.