Does Mattress Firmness Affect How Long It Lasts?

When shopping for a new mattress, most people focus on how comfortable it feels the moment you lie down. But what about how long it will last? One of the most common questions we hear at Twilight Bedding is whether the firmness level of a mattress affects its durability. The short answer is yes: mattress firmness can influence how well and how long a mattress holds up, but it's not the only factor.

What Is Mattress Firmness?

Firmness refers to how soft or hard a mattress feels when you lie on it. Most mattress companies (including Twilight Bedding) categorize firmness levels as:

• Soft: Plush and deeply contouring. Ideal for lighter sleepers or those with pressure-point sensitivity.
• Medium: Balanced support and comfort. Great for side sleepers or couples with different preferences.
• Firm: Taut, supportive surface. Ideal for stomach sleepers, back sleepers, or people who prefer minimal sink.

Firmness is a comfort preference, not an indicator of quality. However, comfort layers can break down at different rates depending on the materials used, and firmer and softer mattresses often use different types of materials.

How Firmness Affects Durability

While firmness itself doesn't guarantee a mattress will last longer, the materials and design used to achieve different firmness levels can impact longevity.

Softer mattresses may break down faster because they use thicker comfort layers of foam, pillow-top fill, or cushioning materials to create a plush feel. These layers are more prone to body impressions, less resilient under constant pressure, and quicker to compress in high-use areas. If you consistently sleep in the same spot, a softer mattress may start showing wear sooner than a firmer counterpart.

Firmer mattresses often use denser materials and stronger coil systems, which are better at holding their shape over time. These materials offer greater structural integrity, less sinkage and sagging, and a longer lifespan under consistent use. That said, sleepers shouldn’t trade durability for a poor night’s sleep.

Medium-firm models are often seen as the “sweet spot” for both comfort and support. They use enough cushioning to feel good while still offering the durability of firmer materials. Many of Twilight Bedding’s most popular models fall in this category because they suit a wide range of sleep positions and body types.

Other Factors That Impact Mattress Lifespan

Firmness plays a role, but it’s just one part of the equation. The primary factors influencing mattress longevity are:

• Materials: High-density foam, tempered steel coils and durable fabrics will always outlast cheaper components and memory foam.
  
  
• Construction: Handcrafted and customized mattresses typically boast superior craftsmanship and quality that can’t be replicated by mass-produced mattresses.
  
  
• Body weight: Heavier individuals compress comfort layers more quickly, especially on soft beds. Choosing a firmer, more supportive model may help extend the life of the mattress.
  
  
• Use and rotation: If your mattress is used every night and never rotated, it will wear faster. Rotating your mattress every 3–6 months can help reduce uneven wear.
  
  
• Foundation and support: Using a proper foundation, whether it’s a box spring, platform bed, or adjustable base is essential. Poor support can cause even a firm mattress to sag prematurely.

How Long Should a Mattress Last?

Most quality mattresses are designed to last 7 to 10 years, with firmer models often maintaining their shape a little longer, especially if they’re rotated regularly and kept on a supportive base. Signs it’s time to replace your mattress include:

• Noticeable sagging or body impressions
• Discomfort or back pain after sleeping
• Noisy springs or broken components
• Restless sleep or lack of support

If your mattress is more than a decade old, it may be worth evaluating how it’s holding up.

Which Firmness Is Right for You?

Durability is important, but so is comfort. At Twilight Bedding, we strive to ensure every mattress, regardless of firmness level, is equally durable and long-lasting. Instead of focusing on which mattress will provide the most years of performance, we want customers to choose the right mattress based on their:

• Sleep position (side, back, stomach)
• Body weight and pressure points
• Shared bed needs (for couples)
• Specific pain concerns (like hip or shoulder pain)

Whether you need a plush pillow-top or a firm orthopedic model, we carry mattresses built to last and built to suit you.

Enjoy Better Sleep Longer with Locally Handcrafted Mattresses in Spokane, WA

At Twilight Bedding, every mattress we make is built for long-lasting performance, so you can focus on what really matters: finding the comfort and support that’s right for you. Whether you prefer soft, firm, or something in between, our team will help you choose the perfect fit.

Visit us today or call our Spokane Valley showroom at (509) 926-2333 or our North Spokane showroom at (509) 413-2431.