How do you choose mattress firmness for back comfort?

[damiua]

I work with mattresses and often see people struggle with firmness choice. Many assume firmer is always better for the back, but in practice body weight and sleeping position matter more.

How did you choose your mattress, and did your opinion change after a few weeks of use?

[esperent]

For me, a fairly wide range of mattresses are fine as long as they're not too thin or too soft, so I don't overthink it.

However, my neck and shoulders are extremely picky about pillows. Thin, flat and firm pillows make all the difference. If I stay in a hotel and see one of those "luxurious" 20cm thick fluffy monstrosities I'll throw it aside and use a rolled up towel instead.

[gregjor]

I asked ChatGPT to choose one for me.