Just as the layers of foam in your new mattress require a break-in period, your body also needs time to adjust to the new sleep surface. Whether you are changing to a different type of mattress, a different comfort level, or the mattress feels firmer because it is new, you must give your body time to get used to a new mattress. Additionally, if you were not getting the proper support from your previous mattress, your body is not accustomed to being naturally aligned. Though it can take some time for your body to adjust, a new mattress will ultimately provide the comfort and support you need.

Mattress pads/protectors and mattress toppers are important. Still, the wrong one can create a barrier between you and your mattress, hindering the bed’s ability to conform and respond to your body. This can affect the way the mattress supports you, as well as prevent the mattress from breaking in. We do, however, recommend using a mattress protector, and we can help make sure it’s the right one for your mattress. Our waterproof mattress protectors are completely breathable yet waterproof to keep your mattress stain-free and in a newer shape longer. Additionally, they are thin so as not to change the feel of your mattress.

Although many platform beds are designed to work without a foundation, this can potentially change the feel of your mattress. Because certain foundations have some flexibility to them – designed to move up and down as weight is applied to them to absorb wear and tear – a mattress on a platform bed might feel firmer to you. Using your new mattress on an existing foundation or boxspring can not only change the feel of the mattress but also affect its support. Mattresses are designed to work with their specific foundation (or on an adjustable base), and not all foundations are constructed the same. Sleeping on a mattress supported by a different foundation or boxspring could cause the mattress to feel softer or firmer than when you tried it in the store.

A pillow helps support your upper body and should keep your spine naturally aligned while lying down. Using a pillow that causes your head and neck to bend excessively far upwards or downwards can lead to neck and back pain, including the lower back. Based on your sleeping position and mattress (how far you sink into it, etc.), your body should be in a relaxed, natural position with your pillow. Sleeping on the wrong pillow can cause your entire body to be out of alignment.

Using fitted sheets that are too tight and do not stretch enough can make your mattress feel firmer. This can prevent you from sinking into the mattress and letting it conform to your body. The thicker your sheets, the warmer your mattress may feel. We recommend sheets made for a cooling mattress if you are concerned about staying cool while you sleep.

As good as climbing into a cool mattress feels, in some instances, the coolness from your mattress protector can alter the feel of your mattress – specifically with memory foam and Tempur-Pedic mattresses. Because memory foam responds to body weight and shape, a cooling mattress protector can cause the foam to be firmer, at least initially. This is especially true with Tempur-Pedic as TEMPUR-Material™ is also temperature sensitive.

Though it is best to sleep in a room as cool as possible, the cooler temperature can affect the feel of your mattress. The foam in the mattress will begin to soften as your body heat warms them up, but the mattress can feel firmer when you first lay down. With Tempur-Pedic mattresses, since they are also responsive to room temperature, having a colder bedroom can cause the mattress to feel firmer longer.