11 Different Ways to Make A Memory Foam Mattress Firmer [Step by Step]

Memory foam mattresses have a perfect, comfortable feeling and are very popular among people for numerous advantages. But after months of usage, some sleepers often complain about sinking into their mattress or waking up with back pain.

This is because their memory foam mattress has become too soft over time, or sagging had led to a loss of support. Again while buying a new mattress, homeowners often miscalculate the firmness range and now can’t afford to buy another. 

Thus, we can say that a memory foam mattress loses its firmness due to the following reasons that include:

• It had been in use for a substantial period.
• Faulty buying
• Change in room temperature causing the firmness to fluctuate.
• Improper positioning.
• substandard care and maintenance

In all such cases, a perfect and prudent way is to learn how to make a memory foam mattress firmer so that your bed feels comfortable and supportive. 

How to Make A memory Foam Mattress Firmer?

There are several ways of firming up a memory foam mattress that will again make your night’s sleep to be peaceful and comfortable.

In this article, we will discuss 11 different ways to make a memory foam mattress firmer.

1. By Using a Mattress Topper 

A Mattress topper is a layering pad designed to be placed over any mattress. It can be made out of different kinds of materials such as latex, compact wool, memory foam, poly-foam, etc.

A mattress topper is one of the best, quickest and cheapest solutions for making the memory foam mattress firmer. Remember that a mattress topper can add softness or firmness to your mattress, ensuring your requirements.

Select a topper with needed thickness and density as these two factors constitute the firmness range. There are many types of toppers available at different price ranges.

Again compare features and prices for all toppers before shopping for the same. Consider using toppers that are 100% organic and are certified by both  GOLS and USDA. 

Step by Step Process:

• Step 1: Remove all the sheets from your mattress.
• Step 2: Placing it atop your mattress, positioning it correctly.
• Step 3: Stretch your mattress protector on top of it. (skip this step if you don’t use a protector)
• Step 4: Add and tuck your fitted sheets on the topper along with the mattress. (Tip- deep use pocket fitted sheets)
• Step 5: Finally, add a flat sheet in line with your memory foam mattress

2. Try to use A Mattress Protector

Just like a topper, a mattress protector sits on top of a mattress and comes in different styles (encasement, fitted-sheet style, and strapped) and materials (polyurethane, cotton, polyester, vinyl).

It is always recommended to use a mattress protector on a mattress from the very beginning. The reason is that a protector helps any bed from sagging and wear and tear.

A mattress protector lends protection from spillage and stains as well as free from dust, mites, and any bacteria. Thus, the firmness of memory foam mattresses is intact for a much more extended period. A mattress protector is a critical component to increase the life of any mattress.

Step by Step Process:

• Step 1: Strip all the beddings (sheet and pillows) from your mattress.
• Step 2: Remove the protector from its packaging. 
• Step 3: Unbox and stretch your mattress protector on top of your mattress just like a fitted sheet.
• Step 4: Pull the elasticized band under the mattress on all corners so that there is an evenness on the sleeping surface.
• Step 5: Finally, add a flat sheet in line with your memory foam mattress

Tip: opt for quarterly laundering of the protector using low heat and gentle wash cycle settings.

3. Adding Plywood/wood/metal Board for Support

Adding plywood or wooden board to make your memory foam mattress firmer is another economical option. These boards give additional support to foam mattresses.

It is advisable to check with your mattress manufacturer for their recommendations. You also can easily slip or replace a piece of plywood or particleboard under the mattress to achieve extra firmness.

It is to be noted here that these boards provide firmness to your memory foam mattress, but they limit airflow and promote mold growth in the mattress. 

Step by Step Process:

• Step 1: Purchase plywood/wooden/metal boards with the exact measurements as your box spring and mattress.
• Step 2: Place plywood boards under your mattress but over the frame of the bed 
• Step 3: Adjust those boards accurately with your memory foam mattress.  
• Step 4: Make sure the plywood untreated and has been sanded for smooth edges and sides
• Step 5: Doing this will make your mattress feel firmer.

Tip: Buy moisture-resistant plywood and use a waterproof protector to nullify the downside.

4. Check and replace your Foundation

A mattress foundation that is under your bedding lifts the mattress and supports it. There are different types of mattress foundation one can choose from the metal frame to a slatted wooden platform or Bunkie beds.

Even floor is a type of mattress foundation. If your memory foam mattress is not feeling firm as it should be, you may need to check the foundation. The reason is memory foam mattresses are low, and it’s tough to get in and out of bed.

Foundation is a necessity in the case of a memory foam mattress. The mattress is likely to contribute to premature sagging or sinking if there is no solid foundation.

Step by Step Process:

• Step 1: Check the exiting base for sagging or creaking.
• Step 2: See if the two halves of the foundation or slats are lined up properly or not. They should be connected well. 
• Step 3: Replace the foundation if it has broken slats.

5. Change Your Box Spring

People do confuse between a box spring and a foundation. Box springs are wooden boxes designed with coiled springs and covered with a cloth.

It can be placed over a metal bedframe, whereas a foundation is usually a flat, solid/slatted base on which your mattress lies. Though the life of any box spring is more than a decent quality mattress, they do need replacement eventually.

Due to prolonged usage, the box spring of a mattress can loosen its spring, and one may counter the issues of sag, uneven support, and firmness. In such scenarios, the only way is to replace your box spring. 

In context to the firmness of a memory foam mattress on a box spring, we should do the follow these guidelines:

1. Firstly, it is advisable not to use any foam mattresses on a box spring as the bed is liable to dip in between coils, and the spring is exposed to flex. 
2. Secondly, even if you are using a box spring under a foam mattress, then remove and replace the same with a slatted base. This will automatically make your bed feel firmer. 
3. Thirdly, if there is no possibility of replacing the box spring, place a Bunkie bed in between them.  

6. Lower /adjust the temperature of the room

Memory foam is a temperature-sensitive material. The warmer the room’s surroundings, the softer it becomes, and you will face the droop problem.

When exposed to heat, these mattresses soften up and conform to your body for pressure relief. This sensitivity makes the bed firmer in colder conditions.

Here is when you should think about resetting the room temperature. If you like to sleep on a firmer mattress, cool the room. The lower temperature will stiffen the material, and it will become a bit firmer.

You should turn on the fan, or open the window or lower the thermostat in order to get an instant but little firmness in your mattress.

7. Place the mattress on the floor

If you want an immediate solution for your problem, then try moving your mattress on the floor. Just like a plywood board, a hard floor can provide consistent support and is the simplest method for firming up your mattress without spending a penny.

This is not a permanent or long-term solution as it has its drawbacks. It will absorb moisture from the ground and attract dust and mites. Again, air circulation is prevented.

Tip: In cases where you need to keep the mattress on the floor, then lift it every week to rest on the side of the wall and let it breathe.

8. Made the mattress breathe

Memory foam mattress absorbs body heat and moisture from its surroundings. The dampness issue is mainly faced by those residing in humid areas such as beaches. This property of foam makes it too soft. To reconstruct the lost firmness; 

Step by Step Process:

• Step 1: Check the instructions on the mattress (whether exposure to direct sunlight will affect the construction). If yes, then opt for professional cleaning. Otherwise, follow the next step.
• Step 2: Try carrying your mattress outside.
• Step 3: Locate a dry place around your house where ample sun rays can be received.
• Step 4: Lay the mattress in the sun, and let it dry out
• Step 5: Airing it in the sun will firm up the mattress and kill off any germs, mold, bugs, etc., that may have occurred from the absorbed moisture.

9. Flatten Your Bedding

Another way of getting a firmer feel while sleeping is by flattening your bedding. A tightly fitted sheet puts pressure on the mattress, compresses it, and feels a much firmer and stiff feel lying on the bed.  

Please don’t use a mattress pad to flatten the bed surface as it can add a touch of softness, and your intention to get a firmer bed will be lost. 

Step by Step Process:

• Step 1: Begin with a fitted sheet that has deep pockets.
• Step 2: Pull tight from all edges and top to bottom to create a force on the mattress.
• Step 3: Next, add a top sheet and fold it over the duvet.
• Step 4: Leave no extra room, and it should fit snugly.

10. Replace Old Layers

Most memory foam mattresses come with a zipper or a removable cover (if it’s not made from fiberglass). This facility gives you a chance to replace old and saggy layers with a good surface for your mattress.

At the same time, replacing the cover, select a firmer layer. Avoid this option if your mattress is within the trial or warranty period.

Step by Step Process:

• Step 1: Unzip the mattress cover.
• Step 2: Swap out any worn-out layers.
• Step 3: Replace it with a new cover/layer. 

Tip: You can even place an order for a new foam layer to your mattress company’s customer service. 

11. Check Sleep Trial Warranty of the mattress

Many online mattress brands such as Nectar and Vibe have trial periods. The brands offer a 100- 365-night trial period.

Thus, if you are unsatisfied with your memory foam mattress’s firmness range/feel, then exchange your bed for a firmer one within the trial period. Again even if you skipped the trial period, but well within the warranty claim period, you can file for repairs or a replacement mattress.

Tip: Before buying a new mattress, always check the warranty and sleep trial policies.

Final Words:

Firmness ensures sound sleep and support; hence it is vital for your memory foam mattress. In the above write-up, we tried hard to provide some ways to how to make your memory foam mattress firmer.

Further, if your memory foam mattress can be used on both sides (few models with this feature), then one more way to add longevity and firmness is by flipping it over every three to six months. This can level out the wear and tear on your bed and keep the firmness of your memory foam mattress for a long time.