A simple, independent guide to how a mattress feels — eight levels running from the most yielding (Ultra Plush) to the firmest (Ultra Firm). Use it to understand comfort language before you buy.
The 8 firmness levels, from most yielding to firmest
- 1Ultra Plush
- The most yielding feel on the scale. A deep, cushioned sink-in where the surface gives generously and the body settles well into the top layers.
- 2Extra Plush
- Very supple, with a pronounced cradling sensation. The surface moulds closely around the body and gives easily under pressure.
- 3Plush
- A cushioned surface with clear give and a pillowed top layer. Noticeable comfort on contact with gentle contouring.
- 4Gently Plush
- A yielding surface feel backed by a little more support underneath. Light give at the top rather than a deep sink.
- 5Gentle
- A balanced feel — easy surface give over steady, even support. Sits between yielding and firm without leaning strongly either way.
- 6Gentle Firm
- A firm, supportive base with a gentle-touch surface layer. Light cushioning on top of a stable, held feel.
- 7Firm
- A solid, stable surface with little give. The body rests on top of the mattress rather than sinking in.
- 8Ultra Firm
- The firmest feel on the scale. A rigid, high-resistance surface with minimal give and a very supported feel throughout.
Please note
These levels are our own impressions and do not correlate to how a supplier may rate a given mattress. Each supplier’s ratings apply within their own range — they are relative to that brand’s signature feel. Across the wider market, feels are not described consistently and there is no universal firmness scale, so the same word can mean different things from one brand to the next. Use this scale as a guide only; ultimately, the best way to judge a mattress is to test it out for yourself.
Frequently asked questions
How many mattress firmness levels are there?
This guide uses eight levels, from Ultra Plush (the most yielding) through Gentle in the middle to Ultra Firm (the firmest).
Is there a universal mattress firmness scale?
No. Firmness feels are not described consistently across the market and there is no universal scale — the same word can mean different things from one brand to the next.
What is the most plush (most yielding) level?
Ultra Plush, level 1: a deep, cushioned sink-in with the most surface give.
What is the firmest level?
Ultra Firm, level 8: a rigid, high-resistance surface with minimal give.
How do I choose the right firmness?
Use the scale as a guide, factor in your body weight and sleeping position, and remember firmness is a feel not a measurement. The best way to decide is to lie on the mattress and test it yourself.
Do supplier firmness ratings match this scale?
Not necessarily. Each supplier rates relative to their own signature feel, so a brand’s “firm” may sit at a different point on this independent scale.
Not sure which feel is right for you?
Visit a Mattress Outlet store and try the full range in person.
Shop Mattress Outlet →