Medium vs Firm Mattress: Which Is Right For You?

Choosing the right mattress isn’t just about budget or style — it’s about finding the perfect balance of comfort and support for your body. One of the most common questions we hear at Lola Sleep is: Should I choose a medium or firm mattress?

The truth is, neither is “better.” It depends on your sleep position, body type, and personal comfort preferences. Here’s our expert guide to the key differences between medium and firm mattresses, and how to decide which is best for you.

Comfort & Support of a Medium Mattress

A medium mattress offers a balanced feel, combining softness with underlying support.

• Contouring: Cushions the shoulders, hips, and pressure points.

• Support: Provides enough structure to keep your spine aligned.

• Best for: Side sleepers and combination sleepers who move around at night.

At Lola, our Pressure Relief range (Original, Premium, Elite) is designed with memory foam layers on top of pocket springs to give this cradling comfort while maintaining support.

👉 Ideal for those who want some cushioning.

Comfort & Support of a Firm Mattress

A firm mattress offers a more solid, supportive feel, without sinking too deeply.

• Posture: Helps maintain spinal alignment, especially for back and stomach sleepers.

• Support: Distributes weight more evenly, reducing sagging.

• Best for: Sleepers with back pain, higher body weight, or those who prefer a sturdy surface.

Our Orthopaedic range (Original, Premium, Elite) is built specifically for this — offering firm, stable support backed by high-count pocket springs.

👉 Ideal for those who want a no-nonsense, supportive sleep surface.

Medium vs Firm: Which Is Better for Back Pain?

• Mild aches or pressure sensitivity? A medium mattress can cushion joints while still supporting the spine.

• Chronic back pain or need for extra stability? A firm mattress (orthopaedic style) is usually the better choice.

This is why our Lola Elite Hybrid Orthopaedic is the most popular choice for long-term back pain sufferers.

Price Range & Value for Money

• Medium mattresses: Often slightly higher in price due to additional cushioning and memory foam layers. Best value for side/combo sleepers who need pressure relief.

• Firm mattresses: Typically more affordable and built for durability. Best value for back/stomach sleepers or those needing orthopedic support.

Across Lola’s range, both firmness levels are available at Original (entry level), Premium (mid-range), and Elite (advanced support) — so you can choose firmness and budget together.

Which Should You Choose?

• Side Sleeper? Go for a Medium Pressure Relief mattress.

• Back or Stomach Sleeper? A Firm Orthopaedic mattress is best.

• Suffer with Back Pain? Start with Firm, unless you know you prefer extra cushioning.

• Couples with different needs? Medium is often the safest “all-rounder.”

Try Lola Risk-Free

At Lola Sleep, we know choosing the right mattress is a big decision. That’s why every mattress comes with:

• 100-Night Sleep Trial

• Free 2-Man Delivery

• Handmade in the UK quality

👉 Explore our Medium Pressure Relief Mattresses and Firm Orthopaedic Mattresses today to find the perfect fit for your sleep style.