Why Plank Mattresses Are Different — And Why You Should Try One In Person Before You Buy

If you’ve been searching for a firm mattress, you’ve probably come across Plank Mattress. Unlike most mattress brands that focus on soft, plush, or “medium” feels, Plank takes a completely different approach:

It’s built specifically for people who want a truly firm, supportive sleeping surface.

And not just firm by marketing standards—actually firm.

But here’s the catch:

Firmness is one of the hardest things to judge online.

That’s exactly why trying a Plank mattress in person before you buy is so important—and why our showroom gives you a major advantage.

 

What Makes Plank Mattresses Unique?

Plank mattresses are designed for one purpose: maximum support with minimal sink.

They’re created by the same company behind Brooklyn Bedding, but instead of trying to appeal to everyone, Plank focuses on a very specific type of sleeper:

• People who prefer a firm or extra-firm feel

• Back and stomach sleepers

• People who want more spinal support

• Those who don’t like the “sinking” feeling of memory foam

One of the standout features of the Plank mattress is that it’s flippable.

That means you actually get two firmness levels in one mattress:

• A firm side

• An extra-firm side

This gives you flexibility—but it also makes choosing the right feel even more important to experience in person.

 

Built for Support First

Most mattresses today prioritize softness and contouring.

Plank flips that idea completely.

Instead of sinking into the mattress, you’re meant to sleep on top of it.

That creates several benefits:

1. Better Spinal Alignment

Firm mattresses help keep your spine in a neutral position, especially for back and stomach sleepers.

2. Less Sink, More Support

If you’ve ever felt “stuck” in a soft mattress, Plank eliminates that completely.

3. More Durable Feel Over Time

Because there’s less plush material to break down, firmer mattresses often maintain their feel longer.

4. Easier Movement

You won’t feel like you’re fighting the mattress when changing positions.

 

Who Plank Is Perfect For

Plank mattresses aren’t for everyone—and that’s actually a good thing.

They’re ideal for:

• Back sleepers who need strong lumbar support

• Stomach sleepers who want to avoid hip sinking

• Heavier individuals who need a more supportive surface

• People who simply prefer a very firm feel

But they may not be ideal for:

• Side sleepers who need pressure relief

• People who prefer a plush or “cloud-like” feel

• Anyone unsure about firm mattresses

And this is where buying online can lead to mistakes.

 

The Problem With Buying a Firm Mattress Online

Firmness is one of the most misunderstood aspects of mattresses.

What one brand calls “firm” might feel medium to you.

And what Plank calls “firm” or “extra firm” can feel significantly different than most other mattresses on the market.

When you’re shopping online, you’re left guessing:

• Will it feel too hard?

• Will it actually support your body the way you expect?

• Will it be comfortable long-term?

• Should you use the firm side or extra-firm side?

Reading reviews doesn’t solve this problem—because firmness is incredibly personal.

What feels perfect to one person can feel uncomfortable to another.

 

Why You Should Try Plank In Person First

Trying a Plank mattress in-store gives you clarity instantly.

 

1. You’ll Know Right Away If It’s Too Firm (or Perfect)

Within minutes, you’ll feel exactly how firm it is.

No guessing. No surprises.

You’ll know:

• If it supports your body properly

• If it feels comfortable enough for your sleep style

• If the firmness level is right for you

 

2. Test Both Sides of the Mattress

Because Plank is flippable, you’re essentially choosing between two different feels.

Trying it in person allows you to:

• Compare the firm side vs. extra-firm side

• Decide which one fits your comfort level

• Avoid choosing wrong and flipping later out of frustration

 

3. Compare It to Other Options

One of the biggest advantages of coming into our showroom is context.

You can try Plank alongside:

• Medium and soft mattresses

• Hybrid options

• Other firm models

This helps you answer an important question:

Do you really want ultra-firm—or just firmer than what you have now?

That distinction is almost impossible to figure out online.

 

4. Test It the Right Way

Most people don’t properly test a firm mattress.

They lay down briefly and assume it’s “too hard” or “just right.”

In our showroom, we help you:

• Test based on your sleep position

• Check pressure points (especially shoulders and hips)

• Evaluate spinal alignment

This ensures you’re making a decision based on how it will feel all night—not just the first 30 seconds.

 

5. Avoid Costly Mistakes

Ordering a firm mattress online can go wrong fast.

Trying first helps you avoid:

• Choosing something too firm to be comfortable

• Realizing too late that you needed more pressure relief

• Going through return or exchange processes

It saves time, effort, and frustration.

 

The Biggest Advantage: You Still Get the Best Price

Here’s what most people don’t expect:

You don’t pay more to shop in-store—in many cases, you pay less.

Because of our pricing structure and relationships, we’re able to:

• Match or beat online pricing

• Help you avoid unnecessary upgrades

• Make sure you’re getting the best value for your budget

And instead of relying on a guess or a quiz, you’re getting real guidance based on your body and preferences.

 

Why This Matters More Than Ever

The rise of online mattress brands has made shopping easier—but not necessarily better.

More people than ever are:

• Buying mattresses they’ve never tried

• Guessing on firmness levels

• Ending up with something that’s “close enough”

But with a mattress like Plank, the difference between “close enough” and “perfect” is huge.

Because firmness isn’t subtle—it’s one of the most noticeable aspects of a mattress.

 

The Bottom Line

Plank mattresses are built for a specific type of sleeper—and they do it extremely well.

They offer:

• True firm and extra-firm options

• Flippable design for flexibility

• Strong support for back and stomach sleepers

• Minimal sink and maximum stability

But they’re not for everyone.

And that’s exactly why trying one in person matters so much.