What is a Plush Mattress? Who Is It Best For?

Plush mattresses feature thicker comfort layers than firm mattresses. They give sleepers a soft, cushioned feeling. In contrast, firm mattresses give sleepers a more responsive, less cushy feeling.

Which firmness level you need depends upon your body size, sleep position, and joint support needs. Mattress firmness ranges from 1 to 10. Plush mattresses usually fall at a 3 or lower on the firmness scale. Firm mattresses are at a 7 or higher. In the middle are medium mattresses. These mattresses are best for couples and those with back pain. Some companies also carry medium-soft and medium-firm mattresses.

This article will explain what a plush mattress is and who should sleep on a soft mattress. We’ll also look at the benefits and drawbacks of firm mattresses. To wrap up, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about plush mattresses.

What is a Plush Mattress?

Sleeping on a plush mattress feels like you’re on a soft, cushioned cloud. One common misconception about plush mattresses is that they aren’t supportive. Support is different from comfort or feel. A mattress can be both plush and foster adequate joint support. You shouldn’t be sleeping on a mattress that isn’t supportive.

SEE ALSO: Best Murphy Bed Mattress

Who Should Sleep On A Plush Mattress?

a. Side Sleepers: People who sleep on their side tend to put more pressure on their shoulders and hips. A plush mattress helps relieve this pressure by offering extra softness and contouring, reducing discomfort.

b. People with Lighter Body Types: Individuals who weigh less may find a plush mattress more comfortable since it offers the right amount of softness without feeling too firm or rigid.

c. Those with Joint Pain or Arthritis: The extra padding of a plush mattress can help reduce pressure on joints, making it an appealing option for people dealing with chronic pain or conditions like arthritis.

d. People Who Prefer a Cushioned Feel: If you enjoy sinking into your mattress a bit, a plush model offers a luxurious, soft sleeping experience, which can be ideal for those who love that “cloud-like” feeling.

Things that Make a Mattress Plush

What sets Plush mattress apart from other mattresses lies in its construction, materials, and targeted features aimed at maximizing comfort.

Thicker Comfort Layers: Plush mattresses typically feature multiple layers of soft materials such as memory foam, latex, or pillow tops. These layers create the hallmark “hugging” sensation that cradles the body. 

The additional cushioning alleviates pressure points, particularly in areas like the shoulders and hips, making it ideal for side sleepers and those with joint discomfort.

Lower Firmness Rating: On a firmness scale of 1 to 10, plush mattresses usually fall at 3 or lower. This level provides the necessary give to contour to a sleeper’s body, enhancing relaxation without compromising on essential support.

Specialized Support Zones: Many plush mattresses incorporate zoning technologies that offer varying levels of support across different areas of the body. For example, softer sections cushion pressure points, while firmer zones maintain proper spinal alignment.

Surface Texture and Fabric: The outer fabric or cover also adds to the plushness. High-quality materials like cashmere, cotton, or cooling textiles enhance the overall soft feel, while some include moisture-wicking properties for added comfort.

Benefits

Soft mattresses offer sleepers a soft, hugging sensation. The contouring that a softer mattress offers aids in pressure relief. This body cradling is helpful for those with joint issues like arthritis.

Plush mattresses promote deep, restorative sleep by minimizing disruptions caused by pressure points. The soft, cushioning layers cradle your body, reducing tossing and turning throughout the night.

These mattresses often have excellent motion isolation properties, meaning movements on one side of the bed won’t disturb the other side. This feature is particularly valuable for partners with different sleep schedules or habits.

The body-contouring design of plush mattresses encourages better blood flow, as it minimizes undue pressure on sensitive areas. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who experience numbness or tingling sensations during sleep.

Beyond practicality, plush mattresses offer an indulgent sleep experience. The rich layers and soft textures provide a sense of luxury, making bedtime a moment to look forward to.

Children, who often prefer softer surfaces, and seniors, who may have joint pain or sensitive pressure points, can benefit greatly from the gentle support of a plush mattress. 

Petite sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds will be most comfortable and supported by a plush mattress. Smaller framed individuals need the body-holding sensation this mattress offers. Too-firm mattresses let the pressure build up in their bodies.

Side sleepers or those with neck, shoulder, and hip pain also enjoy a plusher mattress.

Drawbacks

Not everyone will feel comfortable or supported when resting on a plush mattress. The intense contouring of this mattress can feel uncomfortable for larger sleepers. The sinking sensation of a softer bed can lead to overheating and difficulty getting out of bed.

Those who need firmer support will feel stiff or sore after sleeping on a plush mattress. Body aches are a common indicator that you aren’t sleeping on a supportive mattress. The indentation that your body makes in a plush mattress makes it prone to early sagging.

Our top recommendation for a plush mattress is the AS5 from Amerisleep. This bed is quick to hug the body but is designed to prevent the sinkage that can cause discomfort. It’s the softest bed in the company lineup/

The AS5, like all Amerisleep mattresses, ships free and includes a 100-night sleep trial and a 20-year warranty.

How Lying Down Feels

The AS5 is a soft mattress designed to sidestep the typical trap of becoming an unsupportive sinkhole. With sturdy, responsive foams that help the mattress retain its shape even after years of nightly use. A sleeper will feel a gentle embrace as the surface rushes to meet all their curves, yet can also enjoy how quickly the AS5 snaps back to its original shape.

Inside the Mattress

The first foam layer is Bio-Pur® foam, an innovative update to traditional memory foam. Bio-Pur® has a partly plant-based structure, with plant oils replacing some of the standard petrochemicals that make up memory foam. Not only does this changed formula create a more eco-friendly foam, but it also renders Bio-Pur® more responsive and breathable.

The next layer is Active Flex, named for its flexible responsiveness. This material boosts how swiftly the surface adapts to a sleeper’s movement and weight, buoying the body without decreasing its soft feel.

The transition foam layer is Affinity foam with HIVE® technology. The hexagonal cutouts that make up HIVE® technology create five distinct support zones across the mattress. In the shoulders and hips areas the AS5 has more flexible cushion for greater pressure relief, while the head, torso, and feet areas remain focused on uncompromising support.

The base layer is Bio-Core®, a material that resists sagging and strengthens the mattress’s overall structure. Bio-Core® provides the back support that side sleepers and lightweight sleepers need to wake up refreshed and ready to tackle their day.

Wrapping around the mattress’s layers is a cover fabric of Refresh. Named for its restorative power, the thermoreactive minerals inside the mattress cover take absorbed body heat and convert it into infrared energy. This transformed infrared energy then penetrates the sleeper’s body to boost local bloodflow.

SEE ALSO: Softest Mattress in a Box (2022)

What is a Firm Mattress?

Firm mattresses have a thinner comfort layer. Their design better holds the weight of larger framed sleepers. People over 230 pounds will feel supported without sinking into the mattress’s surface.

Both back sleepers and stomach sleepers prefer firmer mattresses over their plush counterparts. The anti-sink design of a firm to extra-firm mattress provides support to reduce joint pain. Plus, the responsive surface minimizes the chances of spinal misalignment.

Why Firmness matters? The firmness of a mattress plays a key role in how it feels when you first lie down. By familiarizing yourself with the various firmness levels, you can better understand the differences between mattresses and what each level offers in terms of comfort.

Although there is no universal standard for mattress firmness, they are typically rated on a scale from 1 to 10, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. Generally, plush mattresses tend to fall around a 3 on this scale.

Benefits

Sleeping on a firm mattress is beneficial for back pain sufferers. Mattresses for back pain offer the right level of support to reduce their pain. Firmer beds also lower the risk of night sweats and improve circulation.

When you sleep on a firm mattress, you won’t have to worry about being trapped or having trouble getting out of bed. These issues are common with poorly made soft mattresses. The responsive design of firm mattresses eliminates these problems.

Firm mattresses promote proper spinal alignment, reducing the risk of long-term posture issues. By providing a stable and even surface, they help distribute body weight uniformly, preventing pressure buildup in sensitive areas like the lower back.

Another advantage is their durability. Firm mattresses are less prone to sagging over time, making them a cost-effective option for sleepers seeking long-term comfort and support.

Additionally, firmer surfaces enhance mobility during sleep. Sleepers can easily shit positions without feeling “stuck,” which is particularly helpful for combination sleepers or those with limited mobility.

Firm mattresses are also better suited for heavier sleepers, as they offer adequate support to maintain comfort without excessive sinking. This can improve sleep quality and reduce aches caused by improper body alignment.

For stomach sleepers, firm mattresses are essential. They help keep the spine in a neutral position, preventing the lower back from arching excessively, which can lead to discomfort over time.

Drawbacks

There are some noticeable drawbacks to be aware of when purchasing a firm mattress. While firm mattresses can be more supportive, they can also have a rigid or stiff feeling. This feeling is normal when first breaking in a new mattress. If it persists for longer than a month, your bed is too firm.

Sleeping on a too-firm bed will result in joint pain and muscle stiffness the next day. A too-firm mattress can make it difficult to find a comfortable position and fall asleep. Over time, this can diminish the quality of sleep you’re getting.

Plush vs. Firm: Which Do I Need?

Stuck on whether you need a firm or soft mattress? Whether you need a firm, plush, or medium mattress depends on several factors. Here are the top four factors to consider when choosing the right mattress:

• Body size: Smaller framed or lightweight sleepers are most comfortable sleeping on a plush mattress. Plush mattresses give these individuals the body-hugging support to sleep comfortably. Large framed, heavier sleepers should opt for a firmer mattress. Firm mattresses provide these people with the right level of support to minimize sinking and avoid discomfort.

• Sleep position: Your preferred sleep position also impacts how firm of a mattress you need. Side sleepers and combination sleepers typically enjoy a plusher mattress. Plush mattresses give these people extra cushion for their neck, shoulder, and hip joints. While the best mattresses for stomach sleepers and back sleepers are the firmer ones because they aid in back support and promote a neutral spine position.

• Sleeping alone vs with a partner: If you’re sleeping alone, you won’t have to factor in the weight, sleep position, and joint support needs of your partner. Those planning to share a bed with a partner will need to ensure the bed is comfortable and supportive for them as well. Medium mattresses are a popular choice amongst couples.
• Age: Your age is another determinant that can impact your ideal firmness level. Older individuals may need firmer or plush mattresses depending on their health conditions. If you have mobility issues, you may need to aim for a firmer mattress. In contrast, those with severe aches and pains may need to choose a plusher mattress for joint pain.

Some sleepers prefer a bed that’s soft but not too soft. For these sleepers, we recommend a medium-soft mattress. Similarly, some individuals want a bed that’s firm but not overly so. They may find a medium-firm mattress is the key to a good night’s rest.

We also recommend reading our soft vs medium mattress guide to further compare the two feels, along with their pros and cons.

The Zoma Hybrid is the bed for sleepers who want a bed that’s neither too soft nor too firm, with a responsive coil core that ensures the bed adapts quickly to sleepers’ movements.

The Zoma Hybrid comes with free shipping, a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty.

How the Mattress Feels

While the Zoma Hybrid is a firmer bed, its surface is not so unyielding that it’s suitable for only the most dedicated of stomach sleepers. The gel memory foam gently cushions the heavier parts of the body, supporting the shoulders and hips of side sleepers. Back sleepers can gently sink into the surface without fear of spine misalignment.

Inside the Mattress

The top layer of the Zoma Hybrid is gel memory foam, pulling away absorbed body heat for quick dispersal. The memory foam gently molds to the body, and its 2-inch thickness keeps it from feeling overly soft.

The middle layer is Reactiv™ foam, named for its adaptable feel. The material mimics latex without any of the cost, keeping the Zoma Hybrid affordable while helping sleepers lie comfortably on top of the mattress.

The support core is pocketed coils resting on a dense foam base, reinforcing the coils’ structure. Unlike traditional innersprings, the coils are wrapped to create individual responses. Couples sharing the bed will find that their movements won’t ripple across the surface, allowing partners to sleep undisturbed.

Ultra Plush to Extra Firm: other options

A mattress’s firmness level impacts the initial feel of a mattress when you lay on it. It defines how supportive or cushioned a mattress feels, directly influencing your comfort, sleep quality, and overall spinal alignment. 

Understanding mattress firmness levels helps you recognize the differences between mattresses, as well as what to expect from specific firmnesses.

Firmness levels can guide you in selecting a mattress that best suits your body type, sleep position, and personal preferences. Mattress firmness is commonly measured on a scale from 1 to 10, where 1 represents the softest option and 10 is the firmest. 

Plush mattresses, known for their softness and luxurious feel, typically rank around the 3 to 4 mark on this scale, making them ideal for those who prioritize comfort and pressure relief. Here’s a breakdown of the main mattress firmness levels and their defining features:

1-2: Extra Soft/Ultra Plush

Extremely soft mattresses that prioritize comfort over support. These are rare and cater to a niche audience who seek an ultra-cushioned feel. However, their minimal support may not suit most sleepers, especially those needing spinal alignment.

3-4: Soft/Plush

Soft yet supportive, these mattresses provide a gentle cradling effect, allowing you to sink in slightly while still maintaining some structural integrity. Plush mattresses are ideal for side sleepers, petite individuals, or anyone seeking relief for sensitive joints.

5-6: Medium-Firm

The perfect middle ground between softness and support, medium-firm mattresses cater to a wide range of sleepers. They balance pressure relief and spinal alignment, making them a popular choice for couples or combination sleepers.

7-8: Firm

Firm mattresses offer robust support without much give, making them well-suited for stomach sleepers or heavier individuals who require a stable sleeping surface. Compared to medium-firm, they feel noticeably harder but still provide adequate comfort.

9-10: Extra Firm

The firmest option available, extra firm mattresses deliver maximum support, which some heavier sleepers find ideal. However, their hardness can be uncomfortable for those who prefer a softer surface.

Types of Plush Mattresses

There are several types of mattresses available on the market with plush feels today, each offering a unique sleeping experience. Here’s a brief overview of the most common types:

Memory foam mattresses are made from high-density foam that conforms to the body, providing excellent pressure relief and support. They are available in a range of firmness levels and are popular among those who want a mattress that can contour to their body’s shape.

Latex mattresses are made from natural or synthetic latex foam and are known for their durability, breathability, and support. Latex mattresses offer a responsive sleeping surface and are often preferred by those who want an eco-friendly, hypoallergenic option.

Innerspring mattresses, also known as coil mattresses, have a support system made of coils or springs. They offer a bouncy feel and excellent support for the back and neck. Innerspring mattresses may have a pillow top or other comfort layers on top of the coils to provide additional cushioning.

Hybrid mattresses combine the best of both worlds by combining the support of an innerspring mattress with the pressure-relieving benefits of memory foam or latex. They typically have a support system made of coils with a layer of memory foam or latex on top to provide a comfortable sleeping surface.

Other Soft Mattress than plush mattress

In addition to plush mattresses, other types of soft mattresses include:

1. Pillow-Top Mattresses: These mattresses feature an extra layer of cushioning sewn onto the top for added softness. The pillow-top layer is typically made from foam or fiberfill, offering a plush, cloud-like feel.

2. Euro-Top Mattresses: Similar to pillow-top mattresses, Euro-top mattresses also have an extra layer of padding. However, the key difference is that the Euro-top layer is sewn flush with the edges of the mattress, giving it a more seamless look. This design helps maintain a consistent feel across the mattress surface.

Both options are designed to provide a softer sleeping surface, ideal for those who prefer a cushioned, gentle feel.

Mattress Sizes

FAQs

How do Euro top and plush mattresses differ?

Euro top mattresses have a thick comfort layer that is stitched underneath the surface of the mattress. Pillow top mattresses have the same style of comfort layer, except that it is stitched into the top or surface level of the mattress. For more information, read our Euro top vs pillow top mattress guide.

A Euro top mattress is also likely a plush mattress. However, not all plush mattresses are Euro top mattresses. Both mattresses provide sleepers with a soft sleeping surface via extra cushioning.

Is a plush mattress good for your back?

Plush mattresses can be good for back pain sufferers who are lightweight or sleep on their side. For these sleepers, a plush mattress lowers tension and relieves pressure points located along the back and spine.

However, plush mattresses aren’t ideal for all sleepers who have back pain. Larger framed sleepers who sleep on their back or stomach need to choose a firmer mattress. Firmer mattresses are necessary for these sleepers to get enough support and to maintain proper spinal alignment.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattress for Degenerative Disc Disease

What is the lifespan of a plush mattress?

Plush mattresses typically last between 7 to 10 years, depending on the quality of materials, how often it’s used, and the weight of sleepers. Regular maintenance, such as rotating the mattress and using a supportive bed frame, can help extend its lifespan. Over time, a plush mattress may lose some of its cushioning and support, so it’s important to monitor for any signs of sagging or discomfort to know when it’s time for a replacement.

How can I make a plush mattress feel firmer?

If your plush mattress feels too soft, you can make it firmer by adding a mattress topper designed to provide more support. Firm mattress toppers, often made from memory foam or latex, can help enhance the overall firmness of the bed. Alternatively, adjusting the bed’s foundation, like using a firmer box spring or slatted base, may also provide added support to firm up the mattress.

Do hotels prefer plush or firm mattresses?

Hotels tend to use medium-firm mattresses, offering a balance between comfort and support for a wide range of guests. While plush mattresses provide softness, hotels typically want to ensure guests get adequate support for a restful night’s sleep. Medium-firm mattresses cater to a variety of sleeping positions and preferences, ensuring that most guests feel comfortable during their stay.

Which mattress firmness is most suitable for me?

The best mattress firmness depends on your sleeping position, body weight, and personal preference. Generally, side sleepers benefit from softer mattresses, while back and stomach sleepers may prefer medium-firm or firm options. Heavier individuals may require a firmer mattress to avoid sinking too deeply, while lighter individuals may find softer mattresses more comfortable. It’s crucial to choose a firmness level that supports spinal alignment and provides comfort throughout the night.

Are mattress firmness and support the same thing?

While mattress firmness refers to how soft or hard a mattress feels, support refers to how well the mattress keeps your spine aligned and prevents pressure points. A mattress can be firm but lack support if it doesn’t properly contour to your body. Conversely, a soft mattress may provide good support if it molds to your shape and supports spinal alignment. The key is finding a mattress that offers both adequate firmness and proper support for a restful night’s sleep.

Is it possible to have a mattress that is both firm and plush?

Yes, it’s possible to have a mattress that combines both firm and plush elements. Hybrid mattresses, for instance, feature a firm support core with a plush top layer for added comfort. This design gives the benefits of both firmness and softness, offering support while still providing a cushioned, cloud-like feel on the surface. These mattresses are ideal for people who want the best of both worlds, allowing them to enjoy comfort without compromising on support.

Can you flip a plush mattress?

You cannot flip a plush mattress (or most modern mattresses) unless they are double-sided. Flipping a mattress that is not double-sided results in you sleeping on an uncomfortable surface. Instead, you can rotate your mattress every 3 to 6 months to promote a more even wear.

Are plush mattresses bad for you?

Plush mattresses are not bad. However, a plush mattress may be uncomfortable or lacking in support for certain individuals. If a mattress is too plush or soft, it won’t provide you with a good night’s rest. Sore muscles, stiff joints, or body aches are a good sign that your plush mattress isn’t providing you with adequate support.

What is the difference between plush and an ultra-plush mattress?

An ultra-plush mattress would be a 1 on the mattress firmness scale, whereas a plush mattress is a 3. Ultra-plush mattresses are the softest beds available. For most sleepers, an ultra-plush mattress is too soft and lacks joint support.

Ultra-plush mattresses can be too claustrophobic, creating a “stuck” feeling for the sleeper. Plus, it’s hard to find a bed this soft. Since it’s not suitable for most sleepers, the average company doesn’t offer beds with ultra-plush feels.

Conclusion

Plush mattresses feature a thicker comfort layer and a softer sleep surface. Your body size, sleep position, and joint health impact how firm of a bed you need. Smaller sleepers who prefer to sleep on their side are most comfortable and best supported by a plusher mattress. Those with arthritis or other joint conditions can also benefit from a softer bed.

A heavier person who sleeps on their back or stomach needs a firmer mattress. Firmer mattress prevents these individuals and those with mobility issues from sinking into their bed. Medium mattresses are a good choice for couples because they fall in the middle of the mattress firmness scale.

It’s also worth checking the mattress warranties before making a purchase, to ensure that you’re covered in the event of any defects or issues.