The Best Firmness Level for a Latex Mattress: Soft, Medium, or Firm?

Finding the right firmness level for a latex mattress can feel confusing at first, especially if you are torn between soft, medium, or firm. Each option has its own unique feel, and your comfort level depends on factors such as your sleep style, weight, and the type of latex used. The good news is that latex provides a consistent and supportive surface, so once you know what your body prefers, choosing a firmness level becomes much easier.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the differences between soft, medium, and firm latex mattresses, helping you determine which one best suits your sleep style.

What Soft, Medium, and Firm Mean for Latex Mattresses

Firmness describes how much you sink into the mattress and how much pushback you feel.

The type of latex you choose also affects this feel. With latex, the feel is more responsive. You won’t experience the deep sink you get with memory foam. Instead, latex gives a light bounce with steady support underneath.

Manufacturers usually measure firmness using ILD, which stands for Indentation Load Deflection. A lower ILD feels softer. Higher ILD feels firmer. It’s a simple way to compare different latex beds, even if every brand describes firmness a little differently.

Even softer latex still supports your body, while firm latex doesn’t usually feel like sleeping on a board. That balance is one of the big reasons people choose latex mattresses in the first place.

Soft latex feels plush and cushioned. You’ll sink in slightly, but not in a way that traps you. It’s responsive and easy to move around on, even with the softer feel.

Soft latex works well for:

• Side sleepers

• Lighter individuals

• People who want gentle pressure relief

Common ILD range: 15–22

This level allows the mattress to contour more closely. If you often wake up with shoulder sensitivity, soft latex may be a good match.

Medium / Medium-Firm Latex Mattress

Medium- or medium-firm latex provides a balanced blend of comfort and support. It cushions pressure points without feeling too soft. For many people, this level hits the right balance.

It’s a great choice for:

• Back sleepers

• Combination sleepers

• Couples with different preferences

Common ILD range: 23–29

This is often the most popular firmness choice because it adapts well to changes in sleep positions throughout the night.

Firm Latex Mattress

Firm latex feels supportive with minimal sinkage. You’ll feel like you’re resting on top of the mattress instead of sinking into it. It gives the body a lifted, stable feel.

Best for:

• Stomach sleepers

• Heavier individuals

• People who want strong support

Common ILD range: 30+

Firm latex is helpful for those who need alignment above all else. It keeps the spine straight, especially for stomach sleepers who often struggle on softer beds.

Soft vs Medium vs Firm: Comparison Table

Firmness Level	Feel	Best For	Typical ILD	Best Body Weight
Soft	Plush, more contour	Side sleepers, lighter bodies	15–22	Under 150 lbs
Medium / Med-Firm	Balanced support	Back & combo sleepers	23–29	150–230 lbs
Firm	Supportive, minimal sink	Stomach sleepers, heavier bodies	30+	230+ lbs

Factors That Influence Your Ideal Firmness Level

Sleep Position

• Side Sleepers: A soft or medium-firm mattress works best because it cushions the shoulders and hips. Too firm, and you may wake up sore.

• Back Sleepers: A medium or firm feel is better because it keeps your spine in a neutral alignment. This reduces stress on your lower back.

• Stomach Sleepers: A firm mattress is usually the safest choice. A soft or medium mattress may allow your hips to sink too deeply, causing back discomfort.

Body Type

Your weight also plays a role. Lighter individuals often feel more comfortable on soft to medium levels because firmer latex may feel too hard. Heavier individuals tend to prefer medium-firm or firm beds since softer beds may compress too much.

Comfort Needs

Some people enjoy a little more give across pressure points. Others want a solid surface that keeps everything lifted. If you have back or hip concerns, selecting the right firmness level becomes even more crucial. Many people with back pain prefer medium to firm latex.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best firmness level for a latex mattress comes down to a balance of comfort, support, and your individual sleep style. Soft, medium, and firm all offer something different, and choosing the right one can help you sleep more deeply and wake up feeling better.

Find Your Perfect Latex Mattress Firmness

Whether you prefer a soft, medium, or firm mattress, at Elvaé, we offer premium latex mattresses designed for lasting comfort and support. 

Contact us to learn about dealership opportunities and how you can experience the natural comfort of Elvaé latex mattresses firsthand.

FAQs 

Is a medium latex mattress good for all sleepers?

Medium works for many sleepers because it offers both comfort and support. It’s a great pick for people who switch positions at night. Couples also like it because it suits different sleep styles.

Does a firm latex mattress help with back pain?

A firm latex mattress can provide better support for your spine, especially if you sleep on your back or stomach. Its steady feel helps reduce sagging and keeps your lower back aligned. Many people feel more balanced on a firmer option.

Will a soft latex mattress sag faster?

Latex holds up well, even in softer versions. However, soft mattresses compress more over time, especially for heavier sleepers. If you want your mattress to last longer, choosing medium or firm may help.

Is latex better than memory foam for support?

Many people believe that latex offers stronger support because it provides a gentle push back. It doesn’t create a deep sink, which can help keep your spine steady. Memory foam hugs the body more closely, so the feel depends on your personal preference.

How long do latex mattresses usually last?

Latex mattresses often last longer than foam or spring beds. Many stay comfortable for over a decade. Their natural strength helps them hold shape and resist wear.