10 Inch vs 12 Inch Mattress: Which One Should You Choose?
- By Jessica
- Last Update: Aug 06, 2023
When it comes to selecting the perfect mattress, one crucial factor often underestimated is the mattress thickness. While both 10-inch and 12-inch mattresses have their unique benefits, understanding their differences can make a significant impact on your sleep quality.
In this article, we’ll delve into the comparison between 10-inch and 12-inch mattresses, helping you make an informed decision for a more restful slumber.
Table of Contents
10-Inch Mattress: Pros and Cons
A 10-inch mattress is a common choice for those seeking a balanced blend of support and comfort. It often includes multiple layers, including memory foam, latex, and innerspring coils. Let’s take a closer look at its advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:
- Supportive Comfort: The multiple layers in a 10-inch mattress offer adequate support for various sleeping positions.
- Temperature Regulation: With its composition, this mattress type tends to sleep cooler than thicker counterparts.
- Ideal for Most Sleepers: The 10-inch thickness is suitable for a wide range of sleepers, including back, side, and stomach sleepers.
Cons:
- Limited Thickness: The thinner profile might not provide the same level of plushness as a thicker mattress.
- Less Motion Isolation: Due to fewer layers, a 10-inch mattress might not isolate motion as effectively as thicker options.
12-Inch Mattress: Pros and Cons
A 12-inch mattress offers additional layers and cushioning, catering to those who prefer a more luxurious and plush sleeping experience. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and drawbacks.
Pros:
- Enhanced Comfort: The extra layers in a 12-inch mattress provide a luxurious and plush feel.
- Excellent for Pressure Relief: The added cushioning is beneficial for individuals with joint pain or pressure points.
- Motion Isolation: The multiple layers contribute to better motion isolation, making it a great choice for couples.
Pros:
- Possible Heat Retention: Thicker mattresses might trap more body heat, which could lead to discomfort during hot nights.
- Less Firmness: Some sleepers might find a 12-inch mattress too soft if they prefer a firmer sleeping surface.
Differences Between a 10-Inch and a 12-Inch Mattress
- Level of Support
Thicker mattresses come with simultaneous support, extra cushioning, and pressure relief. It means that a 12-inch mattress has that extra thickness that offers additional support and cushioning, especially for plus-size individuals and side-sleepers.
Also Read: What Is Mattress Edge Support?
- Construction
Both mattresses are designed with different layers of latex made of memory foam, polyfoam, or innerspring materials. The layers generally determine a mattress’s profile.
For instance, a 12-inch mattress has more layers than a 10-inch mattress, making it thicker and lush.
- Firmness
A 10-inch mattress is firmer compared to its 12-inch counterpart. Because it is thinner, it tends to give some pushback more than the 12-inch when sleeping on it.
On the other hand, the additional layers on the 12-inch mattress make it plusher and softer, such that when you lay on it, you’ll feel more “in it” than “on top” of it.
Also Read: How to Make a Hard Mattress Soft?
- Longevity
A 12-inch mattress lasts longer than a 10-inch mattress. The extra layers in the 12-inch mattress give it a thicker support base. Therefore, it can endure potential wear and tear over time compared to the slimmer 10-inch mattress.
Also Read: How Long Does a Mattress Last?
- Cost
A thicker mattress is denser and requires more material to manufacture. The extra bulk makes a 12-inch mattress more costly than a 10-inch mattress.
10-Inch vs. 12-Inch Mattress: Factors to Consider
- Weight and Body Type
There are lightweight, average, and heavy-weight sleepers. Depending on the body size, a mattress must adjust to your physique for you to be as comfortable as possible.
Because a heavy-boned individual needs additional support, a 12-inch mattress will suffice. The thicker layers will help prevent sinkage.
On the other hand, a lighter individual can do without the additional cushioning. A 10-inch mattress will serve them adequately.
- Sleeping Position
People have different sleeping positions. Some sleep on their back, stomach, and sides, while others shift between positions.
Each of these positions has varying thickness preferences. For instance, a 10-inch mattress would be the best pick for individuals that sleep on their back and stomach.
The two sleeping positions are susceptible to spinal misalignment. So, the 10-inch mattress will offer a push-back and a firmer feel that doesn’t allow their sinkage.
A 12-inch mattress is suitable for side sleepers. They sleep on their shoulders and hips, which tend to bear all their body weight. For this reason, side sleepers need a dense comfort layer to cushion and reduce pressure on the body parts.
- Bed Sharing
How thick you want your mattress to be depends on your sleeping arrangement. A thicker mattress has more layers and a taller frame, so it can withstand extra pressure without sagging.
Adults that share a bed require a 12-inch mattress. It can bear double the weight, offering more support than a 10-inch mattress.
Additionally, two adults sharing a bed need a long-lasting mattress option. Regarding durability, you can bank on a thicker mattress more.
- Specific Health Issues
A 10-inch mattress has thinner layers. It is firmer and with little “sinking in ” and soft enough to conform to the spine’s natural curve. This offers more lumbar support for individuals with back pains and spinal conditions.
On the other hand, a 12-inch mattress is thick with plusher layers that make it soft enough to conform to body curves. This way, it helps alleviate pressure points of the joints, hips, and shoulders, comforting individuals suffering from hip pain, arthritis, and shoulder pains.
- Mobility
A 10-inch mattress will serve you better if you tend to change your mattress locations. Actually, 12 inches make quite a significant difference, so you will struggle more to move or adjust a 12-inch mattress in your bed.
Individuals with limited mobility, such as older adults, will benefit from a low-profile mattress since it is lightweight and easier to move than the thicker one.
- Budget
The thin 10-inch mattress will be favorable if your budget is tight. Thinner mattresses cost less. They don’t use as much material during the manufacturing as the thicker mattresses.
- Aesthetic Needs
What are your aesthetic preferences? If you desire a fancier appeal on your bed, choose the 12-inch mattress because it offers a plusher outlook. However, to achieve a sleeker and minimalist appeal for your room, go for the thinner 10-inch mattress.
- The Temperature in the Room
Consider a thinner mattress option if your room gets hot during the daytime. The reason is that thicker mattresses have a heating problem.
They tend to absorb more heat and trap hot air. This causes temperatures to soar when you sleep on them at night.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a 12-inch mattress always softer than a 10-inch one?
Not necessarily. While thickness can influence comfort, factors like materials and construction also play a role.
Can I use a 12-inch mattress on any bed frame?
It’s recommended to check your bed frame’s specifications. Some frames might not provide adequate support for a thicker mattress.
Do thicker mattresses last longer?
The lifespan of a mattress depends on various factors, including quality and usage habits, rather than just thickness.
Are there any advantages to a 10-inch mattress for couples?
If you and your partner have different sleep preferences, a 10-inch mattress with customizable firmness could be a suitable compromise.
Do 10-inch and 12-inch mattresses cost the same?
Thicker mattresses tend to be slightly pricier due to the additional materials used, but prices can vary based on brand and features.
Can I use a 10-inch mattress on an adjustable bed frame?
Yes, most 10-inch mattresses are compatible with adjustable bed frames, but it’s essential to check with the manufacturer.
Can a 12-inch mattress help with back pain?
A 12-inch mattress with proper support can contribute to better spinal alignment and potentially alleviate back pain.
Are 10-inch mattresses suitable for heavy individuals?
Yes, 10-inch mattresses can provide adequate support for heavy individuals, but a 12-inch mattress might offer better comfort.
Do thicker mattresses sleep hotter?
Thicker mattresses can trap more heat, but advanced cooling technologies in some mattresses can mitigate this issue.
Are these mattress thicknesses standard across brands?
No, mattress thickness can vary between brands and models, so it’s important to check specifications before purchasing.
Summary
Both 10-inch and 12-inch mattress have their unique benefits and considerations. While a 10-inch mattress offers balanced support and temperature regulation, a 12-inch mattress provides enhanced plushness and pressure relief.
It shouldn’t be hard to choose between a 10-inch mattress and a 12-inch mattress now. You only have to consider your sleeping position, health status, aesthetic preferences, and age to find the one that suits your needs.
Jessica is a lover of both life and gardening. She loves to share his passion for both on social media. He often posts about his latest gardening projects, as well as tips and tricks for others who might be interested in starting their own gardens. She also frequently posts about the different aspects of his life that he enjoys, from spending time with friends and family to exploring new places.
Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.