I chose the extra firm because any of the beds I purchase tend to be a little too soft for me. I also know that beds break down over time so I like to have that firmness carry throughout the life of the bed. That being said, this bed is still pretty firm; it’s going to need some time to break in like all things. I can’t wait for that time to come. I didn’t have terrible back pain when waking up but I did have more than normal ‘creaks and cracks’. The pillow top part of the bed was plush enough but I might go out and purchase a foam topper for added comfort. I didn’t have any hot sweats or unpleasant smells from the new bed. I wish the bed was the same height as my previous bed, I liked the feeling of having to hop up into bed.