Are you tired of waking up on a sagging pillowtop mattress? Are you ready to make the switch from comfort to support? If your answer is yes, then this blog post is for you! Learn how to make a pillow top mattress firm and experience maximum sleeping comfort with optimal support. We’ll show you simple steps on ways to increase the lifetime of your mattress to provide good nights and great days.
Whether it’s firmer mattresses, layers of different types of foam or latex, cooling gel memory foams, or adjustable beds- know that this advice can be applied across all kinds of pillow tops.
So read ahead for some helpful tips that will help ensure quality sleep every night from now on!
What Will You Need?
Before we dive into the steps, let’s take a look at what you will need to make your pillow top mattress firm. You may already have some of these items at home, but if not, they are easily accessible and affordable.
- Mattress Topper: This will add a layer of firmness and support to your pillowtop mattress. Choose a high-density foam or latex topper for maximum effect.
- Plywood: If you have a bed frame with slats, place plywood on top of the slats for added support. Make sure the plywood is cut to fit the size of your bed.
- Mattress Pad: A thick mattress pad can help add firmness to your pillow-top mattress. Look for one that is made of a firmer material, such as cotton or polyester.
- Firm Pillows: Switching out your soft, squishy pillows for firm ones can also provide more support for your neck and back while sleeping.
- Adjustable Bed Frame: Investing in an adjustable bed frame can be a game changer for making your pillow top mattress firmer. You can adjust the angle of the bed to provide more support and comfort.
- Weighted Blanket: Using a weighted blanket on top of your pillow top mattress can help evenly distribute weight and add some pressure to make it feel firmer.
Now that you have everything you need, let’s move on to the next steps!
10 Easy Steps on How to Make a Pillow Top Mattress Firm
Step 1: Add a Mattress Topper
Adding a mattress topper is the first step to making your pillow top mattress firm. This will provide an extra layer of support and cushioning while maintaining your pillow top’s comfort. If you already have a mattress topper, make sure it is of high density foam or latex for maximum firmness.
Step 2: Use Plywood Support
Next, if your bed frame has slats, place a piece of plywood over them for added support. The plywood should be cut to fit the size of your bed and should not protrude. This strategy helps distribute your body weight evenly across the mattress, preventing sagging and enhancing firmness. Remember to ensure the plywood is smooth and without potential splinters to avoid damaging your mattress.
Step 3: Install a Mattress Pad
A third way to add firmness to your pillow top mattress is by using a mattress pad. Select a pad made of firm materials like cotton or polyester. Make sure it fits your mattress perfectly.
Once installed, it will add an extra layer of firmness, further enhancing the support and comfort of your mattress. The pad not only increases firmness but also protects your mattress from wear and tear, extending its lifespan.
Step 4: Choose Firm Pillows
The softness of your pillows can significantly impact the firmness of your pillow top mattress. Replacing soft pillows with firmer ones can provide additional support for your neck and back, creating an overall firmer sleep experience. Opt for pillows filled with memory foam or latex, as these materials are known for their firmness and durability.
Step 5: Invest in an Adjustable Bed Frame
Another effective solution to enhance the firmness of your pillow top mattress is to invest in an adjustable bed frame. These bed frames allow you to easily alter the angle of your bed to increase support and comfort tailored to your requirements. By elevating specific areas of the bed, you can distribute weight more evenly, reducing the pressure on your mattress and thus maintaining its firmness.
Step 6: Use a Weighted Blanket
Adding a weighted blanket to your bed setup is another effective method for increasing the firmness of your pillow top mattress. Weighted blankets apply even pressure across your body, which is not only comforting but also helps to distribute weight across the mattress, preventing sagging and enhancing firmness.
They come in various weights, so choose one that suits your preference but is manageable to restrict your movement during sleep. By integrating a weighted blanket into your bedding ensemble, you can enjoy a firmer sleeping surface without compromising comfort.
Step 7: Regularly Rotate Your Mattress
Regular rotation contributes significantly to maintaining the firmness of your pillow top mattress. By rotating your mattress every three months, you can ensure even wear and tear, preventing the formation of body impressions and sagging spots.
This simple step can extend the lifespan of your mattress and maintain its firmness for years to come. For optimal results, make rotation part of your regular home maintenance routine. Remember, consistency is the key here.
Step 8: Ensure Proper Ventilation
Maintaining good ventilation is crucial for preserving the firmness of your pillow top mattress. Excessive moisture can soften the materials of your mattress, leading to a loss in firmness over time. To prevent this, ensure your mattress is well-aired and your bedroom has good airflow.
This could involve regularly opening windows or using fans or air conditioning where necessary. Additionally, using a mattress protector can help to guard against moisture and extend the lifespan and firmness of your mattress.
Step 9: Avoid Excessive Weight
One often overlooked factor in maintaining the firmness of a pillow top mattress is the weight it consistently bears. Excessive weight can lead to the premature sagging and softening of your mattress. Try to avoid sitting on the edges or placing heavy objects, like suitcases or boxes, on your mattress for extended periods.
If you have children, discourage them from jumping on the bed as this can also prematurely wear out and soften the mattress. By taking these precautions, you can preserve the firmness and prolong the lifespan of your pillow top mattress.
Step 10: Regular Maintenance
Regular upkeep is the key to maintaining a firm pillow top mattress over a prolonged period. This involves following the steps mentioned above and regularly cleaning your mattress to remove dust, sweat, and allergens that can accumulate over time and affect its firmness.
Use a vacuum cleaner for this purpose and spot-clean any stains with a mild detergent and water. Always ensure your mattress is completely dry before adding any toppers or bedding since moisture can affect the firmness.
By following this regimen, you can maintain the firmness of your pillow top mattress, ensuring healthy and comfortable sleep for years to come.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Flip the Mattress Regularly: To maintain the firmness of your pillow top mattress, make it a routine to flip the mattress every six months. This can help distribute wear evenly and prevent sagging.
- Check Your Foundation: Another important factor in maintaining firmness is the foundation or base that your mattress sits on. Ensure that it is sturdy and supportive to avoid any unnecessary sinking.
- Keep the Mattress Clean: Regular cleaning and vacuuming of your mattress can keep it in the best condition by preventing the buildup of dust and allergens that may affect its firmness.
- Ensure Proper Foundation: A strong and stable foundation is crucial to maintain the firmness of your pillow top mattress. Make sure to use a high-quality bed base or box spring.
- Replace the Mattress if Necessary: Even with the best care, mattresses wear out over time. If your pillow top mattress is over 8-10 years old and is losing its firmness, consider replacing it for a better night’s sleep.
With these additional tips and tricks, you can ensure that your pillow top mattress remains firm and supportive for a long time.
5 Things You Should Avoid:
- Avoid Jumping on the Mattress: This seems like a no-brainer, but it is worth mentioning. Jumping on your pillow top mattress could cause damage to the internal structure, leading to a loss in firmness and potentially reducing its lifespan.
- Avoid Using Harsh Chemical Cleaners: Pillow top mattresses can be sensitive to certain cleaning agents. Harsh chemicals may degrade the material and affect the firmness of your mattress. Instead, use mild, mattress-approved cleaners for spot cleaning.
- Don’t Go Without a Mattress Protector: Not using a mattress protector can expose your pillow top mattress to spills and stains that can damage the surface and affect the internal structure, causing it to lose firmness.
- Don’t Ignore the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Every mattress comes with care instructions from the manufacturer. Ignoring these instructions may lead to practices that can harm your mattress and cause it to lose its firmness prematurely.
- Don’t Delay Repairing or Replacing a Damaged Foundation: A worn-out or broken foundation can cause your mattress to sag, affecting its firmness. If your bed’s base or box spring is damaged, repair or replace it immediately.
Avoiding these common mistakes can help maintain the firmness of your pillow top mattress and extend its lifespan.
Is a Pillow Top Mattress Firm or Soft?
Many people wonder if a pillow top mattress is firm or soft. The answer is it can be both! The level of firmness in a pillow top mattress depends on the materials used and the overall construction.
Typically, a pillow top mattress has an extra layer of padding on top, which can provide a plush and cushioned feel. However, the underlying support system can vary; some pillow top mattresses can be firmer than others.
If you prefer a firmer feel, opt for a pillow top mattress with a sturdy support system such as an innerspring or latex core.
However, if you like a softer surface, choose a pillow top mattress with memory foam or microfiber padding.
Conclusion
Overall, how to make a pillow top mattress firm will significantly improve your sleep. To achieve greater comfort, choose the right mattress that will match your needs, monitor the firmness and longevity of your mattress over time, and use any needed tools to find a solution if it is uncomfortable.
Above all else, regularly rotating and flipping your pillow top mattress will help to keep it firm longer. If you still feel uneasy about purchasing a new mattress after trying these methods, then consult with professionals such as a sleep specialist or an orthopedic doctor.
With some planning beforehand and taking proper care of your pillow top mattress in the future, you can sleep more soundly, knowing that you have gotten the best level of comfort out of your purchase.
So don’t wait around – start finding ways to give yourself a firmer pillow top mattress today!
