Why Does My New Mattress Feel Different?
The feel of a mattress depends on more than its firmness rating. Its materials, construction, support system, your bed base and even the condition of your previous mattress can all affect how your new mattress feels.
Your Old Mattress
An older mattress may have softened or changed over years of use, making a new mattress seem firmer or simply different.
Mattress Construction
Pocket springs, foam, memory foam and hybrid mattresses respond to your body in different ways.
Your Bed Base
The foundation underneath your mattress can influence how it performs, so compatibility is important.
Adjustment
Your body may need time to become accustomed to a different sleeping surface and support level.
Why Does My New Mattress Feel Too Firm?
If your new mattress feels firmer than expected, it does not automatically mean you have chosen the wrong mattress. Consider the following factors first.
Your Old Mattress Was Softer
Years of use can change the feel of a mattress. If your previous mattress had softened considerably, a new mattress can feel much firmer by comparison.
The Support Feels Different
A mattress with a different spring system, foam construction or support level can feel noticeably firmer even if its advertised firmness is similar.
The Mattress May Need to Settle
Some mattresses can feel different when first unpacked or installed. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for unpacking and settling.
Why Does My New Mattress Feel Too Soft?
A new mattress can also feel softer than expected. The construction of the mattress, your previous sleeping surface and the bed base underneath it can all make a difference.
Different Materials
Foam, memory foam and hybrid mattresses can provide more pressure relief and body contouring than traditional spring mattresses.
Your Old Mattress Was Firmer
If you have moved from a firm mattress to a softer construction, the difference can feel significant from the first night.
Check the Bed Base
The base provides the foundation underneath the mattress. Make sure your existing or new base meets the mattress manufacturer's requirements.
How Long Does It Take to Get Used to a New Mattress?
There is no single adjustment period that applies to every mattress or every sleeper. A change in mattress type, firmness or support can take some getting used to.
Give yourself time to adjust
Before deciding that a mattress is unsuitable, make sure it has been set up correctly and follow the manufacturer's care and settling instructions.
If the mattress continues to feel unsuitable after you have followed the relevant guidance, check the retailer's trial, exchange or returns policy.
Can Your Bed Base Affect How Your Mattress Feels?
Yes. Your bed base provides the foundation underneath the mattress, so its construction and compatibility can affect how the mattress performs.
Divan Base
A divan provides a solid and stable foundation for a compatible mattress and can also provide useful under-bed storage.
- Stable foundation
- Compact design
- Optional drawer storage
- Different base and fabric options
Slatted Bed Frame
A slatted frame supports the mattress using a series of slats. Slat type, spacing and construction should be compatible with the mattress.
- Open slatted support
- Wide range of styles
- Different slat configurations
- Compatibility should be checked
What Should You Check Before Deciding Your Mattress Is Wrong?
If your new mattress does not feel as expected, work through these checks before deciding whether you need an exchange or return.
1. Check the Firmness
Review the manufacturer's firmness description and compare it with what you expected when buying.
2. Check the Base
Make sure your bed base is suitable for the mattress and meets the manufacturer's requirements.
3. Check the Setup
Make sure the mattress has been unpacked, positioned and allowed to settle according to the supplied instructions.
4. Check the Specifications
Review the mattress type, construction, materials and stated firmness so you know exactly what you purchased.
Too Firm or Too Soft? Start Here
| How It Feels | What Could Cause It? | What Should You Check? |
|---|---|---|
| Too Firm | Different construction, stronger support or a softer old mattress | Firmness rating, setup instructions, adjustment and base compatibility |
| Too Soft | Different materials, softer construction or foundation differences | Mattress specifications, base support and manufacturer's requirements |
| Simply Different | Different mattress type, materials or years of change in your old mattress | Compare the old and new mattress construction and firmness |
When Should You Consider an Exchange or Return?
If your mattress continues to feel unsuitable after following the manufacturer's instructions and allowing an appropriate period to adjust, it may be worth exploring your available options.
Still Too Firm?
The mattress may simply not be the right firmness or construction for your preferences.
Still Too Soft?
Consider whether a different firmness or mattress construction would better suit your preferences and support requirements.
Check Your Policy
Before making any changes, check the retailer's specific requirements for returns, exchanges, trials and mattress condition.
New Mattress Comfort Checklist
Make sure the advertised firmness matches what you expected.
Give yourself time to become accustomed to a different sleeping surface.
Make sure the base is compatible with your mattress.
Follow the manufacturer's setup, care and settling guidance.
Remember that your previous mattress may have changed significantly with age and use.
Check the mattress type, construction, materials and firmness information.
If it remains unsuitable, review the retailer's exchange, trial or returns policy.
Think about firmness, mattress type, sleeping position and your preferred level of support.
Looking for a Different Mattress Feel?
Choosing the right mattress starts with understanding the firmness, construction and support that suit you. Explore our mattress collection to find a feel that's right for you.
Shop MattressesFrequently Asked Questions
Why does my new mattress feel so firm?
A new mattress can feel firmer than your old mattress because of differences in construction, materials and support. Your previous mattress may also have softened or changed over years of use.
Why does my new mattress feel too soft?
Your new mattress may use different materials or have a different construction from your previous mattress. Your bed base can also influence how the mattress performs.
Will a new mattress soften over time?
A mattress can change with use, but the amount and rate of change depend on its construction and materials. Do not assume that every mattress will soften by the same amount. Follow the manufacturer's guidance for your specific mattress.
How long should I give a new mattress before deciding it is too firm?
There is no universal adjustment period. Follow the manufacturer's setup instructions and allow yourself time to become accustomed to the new sleeping surface. If it remains unsuitable, check the retailer's trial, exchange or returns policy.
Can my bed base make my mattress feel firmer or softer?
The bed base provides the foundation underneath the mattress and can influence how it performs. Always make sure your base is compatible with the mattress and meets the manufacturer's requirements.
What should I do if my new mattress is still uncomfortable?
First check the mattress setup, bed base, specifications and manufacturer's instructions. If it remains unsuitable after allowing time to adjust, check the retailer's exchange, trial or returns policy.
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