So I'm about 260 lbs and whenever I sit on the edge of my mattress to tie my shoes or get up, it sinks down a lot. It's a memory foam mattress that's about 3 years old. Is this just how foam mattresses are, or is something wrong with it? I don't feel like it's sagging in the middle when I lie down, just the edges.
edge support
My mattress sinks whenever I sit on the edge
Edge support is a known weak point for a lot of all-foam beds. The perimeter doesn't have coils or a reinforced border, so it compresses under concentrated weight. What you're describing sounds normal for that construction, especiall at your weight.
Three years isn't that old but foam does soften over time. Does it sink in more than it used to?
Hard to say. I think it's always been like this but maybe a bit worse now. I didn't pay much attention at first.
I had The same issue. Went with a hybrid with pocket coils and a reinforced edge and it made a huge difference. Sitting on the edge no longer feels like I'm sliding off.
Could also be the foundation. If the mattress is on a slatted base with wide gaps or a box spring that's flexing, the edges will feel softer. What's it sitting on?
It's on a solid platform bed frame. No box spring.
Then it's the mattress itself. Foam edges just compress. If it bothers you enough, a hybrid or an innerspring with a border rod is the usual fix. Some foam beds do have firmer edge foam but it still breaks down.
Also worth checking if the cover is tight. Sometimes a loose cover lets you sink further before you feel resistance.
Mine does this too and I'm only 180. I just accepted it.
180 and it sinks? That seems like a lot. What brand?
Don't want to name it but it was a cheap one from an online retailer. You get what you pay for I guess.
If you're otherwise comfortable lying on it, a cheap fix is just not not sitting on the edge. I know that sounds dismissive but it's what I did for years. Sat on the side of the bed with my feet on the floor instead of perching on the corner.
That works until you need to get out of bed in a hurry or you have mobility issues. For heavier sleepers it's a real functional problem, not just a comfort nitpick.
Yeah I'm not really looking to change how I get out of bed. Sounds like I should start looking at hybrids. Any specs to look for on edge support?
Look for beds with a coil unit that goes rdge to edge, or a reinforced perimeter. Reviews that mention sitting on the edge are more useful than lab numbers. And try to sit on one in a store if you can.
Seconding the the in-store test. Bring your own weight to it, literally. Sit on the edge for a minute, not two seconds.