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How To Make A Memory Foam Mattress Softer

How To Make A Memory Foam Mattress Softer

Written by: Daniel Connell · Updated on: January 19, 2024

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Key Takeaways

It takes a while for memory foam to break in.

A memory foam mattress is never supple out of the box.

Your brand-new mattress usually becomes more comfortable after 2-6 weeks.

Foam mattresses can be temporarily softer (most methods don't work long-term).

Get a softer memory foam mattress if all else fails.

If your mattress is old, consider returning or donating it (now is a good time to replace it).

It isn't possible to soften your existing foam mattress (if you've had it for a while).

Instead of bandaging your current foam mattress to make it softer, it's probably better to buy a brand new, softer memory foam mattress (Loom and Leaf by Saatva is the #1 memory foam mattress right now).

Spine health requires firmness. Poor sleep quality can be caused by sleeping on a firm bed.

#1 Way To Make My Memory Foam Mattress Softer?

You can't just soften foam mattresses.

A new mattress should break in after 2-4 weeks. You can return it if it's still too firm after 4 weeks.

If it is still firm, but has gotten softer over time, try laying on it again. A foam settles into its final position over time (usually 2-8 weeks).

Replace your old mattress with a softer memory foam mattress (see the Saatva Loom and Leaf mattress).

If your mattress is new (you've given it 4-8 weeks) and it's still soft - return or donate it.

Note: After 7 nights, most new memory foam mattresses will soften up and feel more comfortable.

Other Methods To Make My Memory Foam Mattress Softer

Until you receive your brand-new soft memory foam mattress, you have three options:

• Walk on your mattress: Walk (on your knees) or crawl across the foam mattress several times. It should help break in the foams a little.
• Adjust your room temperature: Sleep in a relatively warm environment (not too hot). When combined with pressure, ambient warmth can help your new memory foam mattress expand fully.
• Use a topper: Soften up your firm memory foam mattress by adding a soft mattress topper. Sleeping on a latex mattress topper increases airflow, breathability, and heat dissipation.

You can't do much else.

It's better to return (or donate) your old mattress and replace it with a memory foam mattress (like Loom and Leaf).

A rotated mattress, much like rotated tires, typically wears more evenly and reduces indentions or support issues.

How Long Does It Take For My Foam Mattress To Soften Up?

Memory foam mattresses typically soften over 2-4 weeks.

Mattresses with the right density of foam (called ILDs). Your previous mattress should be softer (between 12-15).

What If My Foam Mattress Never Gets Softer?

If you've tried all of the above and reached the end of your trial period, this may not be the ideal bed for you.

Return the mattress to the seller. It's not worth exchanging. You'll likely encounter similar problems. The majority of online brands offer return policies (assuming the mattress is not damaged).

Can I Adjust The Firmness Of My Memory Foam Mattress To Make It Softer?

You can adjust the firmness of your memory foam mattress to make it softer. A topper made of a softer material, like down or gel-infused memory foam, can help. Unzipping the mattress cover and removing a layer of foam also reduces firmness. Memory foam mattresses with adjustable bases allow you to change the angle and firmness of the mattress.

However, changing the mattress can affect its warranty and longevity. Be sure to check with the manufacturer to ensure changes won't void the warranty. Also, altering the mattress may not always result in the desired softness and could cause discomfort or pain.

If you need a softer memory foam mattress, purchase one with a lower density, which tends to be softer and more cushioning. Look for high-quality brands that offer comfortable and durable options.

The right level of firmness is a personal preference. Experiment with different options to find the perfect level of comfort and support for your individual needs.

About X

X is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of NapLab.com. He has been featured in Fast Company, Reader's Digest, Business Insider, Realtor.com, Huffington Post, Washington Post, AskMen, and She Knows. X has personally tested over 268+ mattresses and hundreds of pillows, sheets, beds, and other sleep products.

See Our #1 Researched Mattress in 2024

Rated best for comfort and hotel-feel

Get 450$ OFF Mattresses

References

How To Make A Memory Foam Mattress Softer

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It takes a while for memory foam to break in.

A memory foam mattress is never supple out of the box.

Your brand-new mattress usually becomes more comfortable after 2-6 weeks.

Foam mattresses can be temporarily softer (most methods don't work long-term).

Get a softer memory foam mattress if all else fails.

If your mattress is old, consider returning or donating it (now is a good time to replace it).

It isn't possible to soften your existing foam mattress (if you've had it for a while).

Instead of bandaging your current foam mattress to make it softer, it's probably better to buy a brand new, softer memory foam mattress (Loom and Leaf by Saatva is the #1 memory foam mattress right now).

Spine health requires firmness. Poor sleep quality can be caused by sleeping on a firm bed.

#1 Way To Make My Memory Foam Mattress Softer?

You can't just soften foam mattresses.

A new mattress should break in after 2-4 weeks. You can return it if it's still too firm after 4 weeks.

If it is still firm, but has gotten softer over time, try laying on it again. A foam settles into its final position over time (usually 2-8 weeks).

Replace your old mattress with a softer memory foam mattress (see the Saatva Loom and Leaf mattress).

If your mattress is new (you've given it 4-8 weeks) and it's still soft - return or donate it.

Note: After 7 nights, most new memory foam mattresses will soften up and feel more comfortable.

Other Methods To Make My Memory Foam Mattress Softer

Until you receive your brand-new soft memory foam mattress, you have three options:

• Walk on your mattress: Walk (on your knees) or crawl across the foam mattress several times. It should help break in the foams a little.
• Adjust your room temperature: Sleep in a relatively warm environment (not too hot). When combined with pressure, ambient warmth can help your new memory foam mattress expand fully.
• Use a topper: Soften up your firm memory foam mattress by adding a soft mattress topper. Sleeping on a latex mattress topper increases airflow, breathability, and heat dissipation.

You can't do much else.

It's better to return (or donate) your old mattress and replace it with a memory foam mattress (like Loom and Leaf).

How Long Does It Take For My Foam Mattress To Soften Up?

Memory foam mattresses typically soften over 2-4 weeks.

Mattresses with the right density of foam (called ILDs). Your previous mattress should be softer (between 12-15).

What If My Foam Mattress Never Gets Softer?

If you've tried all of the above and reached the end of your trial period, this may not be the ideal bed for you.

Return the mattress to the seller. It's not worth exchanging. You'll likely encounter similar problems. The majority of online brands offer return policies (assuming the mattress is not damaged).

Can I Adjust The Firmness Of My Memory Foam Mattress To Make It Softer?

You can adjust the firmness of your memory foam mattress to make it softer. A topper made of a softer material, like down or gel-infused memory foam, can help. Unzipping the mattress cover and removing a layer of foam also reduces firmness. Memory foam mattresses with adjustable bases allow you to change the angle and firmness of the mattress.

However, changing the mattress can affect its warranty and longevity. Be sure to check with the manufacturer to ensure changes won't void the warranty. Also, altering the mattress may not always result in the desired softness and could cause discomfort or pain.

If you need a softer memory foam mattress, purchase one with a lower density, which tends to be softer and more cushioning. Look for high-quality brands that offer comfortable and durable options.

The right level of firmness is a personal preference. Experiment with different options to find the perfect level of comfort and support for your individual needs.