If you don't mind spending a few quid on a premium mattress – you're going to love our top five…
Best Mattress in the UK – Hybrid, Memory Foam & Pocket Sprung Mattresses
Our 10 best UK mattress picks
Before we get into all of the details regarding how to pick out the perfect mattress, here's our top ten list! Each one of these mattresses is the best in their field and we should know – since we tested all of them.
Mattresses
1
Best Overall
Mattresses
2
Best Luxury
Mattresses
3
Best Cooling
Mattresses
4
Best quality
Mattresses
5
Best for Side Sleepers
Mattresses
6
Best for Softness
Mattresses
7
Best for Heavy Sleepers
Mattresses
8
Best Ergonomic Design
Mattresses
9
Best Budget
Mattresses
10
Best for Front Sleepers
Best Mattress Overall: Emma NextGen Premium Mattress
If you want to finally get the proper sleep you deserve, this is the mattress for you!
Best Overall
While memory foam is certainly known for offering amazing pressure relief, you need a good spring layer to go with it to ward off any potential back pain. And the Emma NextGen Premium Mattress is the perfect example of this! That's why we have given it our award for the Best Mattress 2024.
For their newest hybrid mattress, Emma upgraded the springs, making them about 50% larger than before. And this resulted in a mattress that's a lot better at keeping your spine properly aligned!
On top of that, the larger springs made the mattress itself more breathable than before, which is always a plus.
And since the mattress is still topper with 3 layers of foam and a premium mattress cover, it's still incredibly comfortable. We've found that this mattress suits just about any sleeping style!
Click here to read more about the Emma NextGen Premium Mattress and see why we love it so much.
KEY FEATURES:
- Type: Hybrid
- Firmness: 5/10
- Thickness: 25cm
- Size: Single, Small Double, Double, King, Super King, EU Double, EU Queen
Advantages
Super comfortable
It's not too firm and not too soft.
Improved breathability
The new design has helped with this.
Removable cover
Take off to wash for easy maintenance.
Disadvantages
Slight motion transfer
Doesn't have as much motion isolation as some other models.
Edge support coule be better
While not terrible, the edge support is lacking.
Best Luxury: Simba Hybrid Pro Mattress
If a larger price tag won't scare you away from buying the best mattress you can find in the UK, the Simba Hybrid Pro Mattress is going to become your new best friend.
Best Luxury
That's because this premium hybrid mattress does away with all the issues hybrid mattresses typically have. Dense memory foam often traps heat and leads to overheating, so, for this mattress they used graphite-infused foam and added a breathable wool layer. Hybrid mattresses sometimes lack in terms of support (at least when compared to high-end spring models), but that's not the case with the Simba hybrid mattress.
So, the Simba Hybrid Pro utilised up to 5000 Aerocoil springs spread over two layers in order to offer equal part comfort and support. And if that wasn't good enough for you, they even offer a barrel spring base that ramps up the edge support even more.
These are just some of the highlights of this amazing mattress. We haven't even mentioned the 200-night trial period or the 10-year guarantee or the free mattress protector! So, to see why it's the best mattress overall, read our full Simba Hybrid Pro Mattress review.
KEY FEATURES:
- Type: Hybrid
- Firmness: 6.5/10
- Thickness: 28cm
- Size: Single, Small Double, Double, King, Super King + EU Double, EU Queen
Advantages
Amazing temperature regulation
Top-tier temperature control thanks to the Simbatex & Aerocoil layers.
Very supportive
Great support throughout the mattress, including the edges
Long lasting
Simba is a premium-quality brand. The mattress will last a very long time
Disadvantages
A bit expensive
Premium quality comes with a premium price tag
Best Cooling Mattress: Emma Luxe Cooling Mattress
If you want to stay cool all through the night, this is the mattress for you!
Best Cooling
So far, we've mentioned overheating as a potential issue a few times. And that's because it really can ruin your sleep quality! However, with the Emma Luxe Cooling Mattress, you won't have to ever worry about the temperature being an issue.
Even breathable mattresses can sometimes hold onto some of your body heat, making it slightly warmer under you. However, Emma promises that their Premium ThermoSync® Technology will keep you at an ideal body temperature all night long! And that doesn't just refer to surviving the summer but winter as well. And this in turn can lead to longer and better deep sleep.
Cooling properties aside, the Luxe has all the benchmarks of a high-end mattress. With 5 separate layers all balancing each other to bring you both comfort and support. And with high-quality materials comes a long shelf-life, with a 10-year guarantee.
KEY FEATURES:
- Type: Hybrid
- Firmness: 6/10
- Thickness: 25cm
- Size: Single, Small Double, Double, King, Super King, + EU Single, EU Double, EU Queen
Advantages
Great for side sleepers
Promoting proper spinal alignment.
Good motion isolation
You won't feel your partner fidgeting.
Breathable
Adapts to each individual so you feel your own benefits.
Disadvantages
Very pricey
A little more expensive than other alternatives.
Not eco-friendly
Uses polyester for the cover.
Best quality: Simba Hybrid Luxe Mattress
If you liked the look of the Hybrid Pro, then this mattress takes the design to the next level. It has even more of everything.
Best quality
It’s thrown everything you can imagine into the design to give you one of the best mattresses we’ve tried.
The main downside of the Simba Hybrid Luxe is the price tag that comes with it, but if that’s not an issue for you then it’s definitely worth the investment. It’s a deeper mattress than most but that’s because it is made up of 11 layers that work together to give you a good night’s sleep. This mattress is of high quality and is sure to last you a long time.
You’ll receive comfort, support, breathability and cooling factors from this product to keep you comfortable throughout the night. With three comfort spring layers, a supportive spring base, a breathable cover and cooling layer. Not only that, they’re doing their bit for the environment and that includes their ReGen foam layer that has been recycled.
Take a look at our full Simba Hybrid Luxe Mattress review.
KEY FEATURES:
- Type: Hybrid
- Firmness: 7/10
- Thickness: 31cm
- Size: Single, Double, Small Double, EU Queen, King, Super King
Advantages
Edge-to-edge support
Thanks to the high-definition Simba-Pure foam layers.
Very comfortable
Experience a great night's sleep from the breathable sleep surface to the foam base.
Removable cover
Easy maintenance with the convenient zip-off washable cover.
Disadvantages
Not for heavier sleepers
The top layers of this Simba mattress are quite soft to sleep on so you may find yourself sinking in the wrong places.
Slight off-gassing
It’s completely normal and the smell from this one isn’t as bad as others. It will air out overnight.
Pricey
Expensive when compared to similar products.
Best for Side Sleepers: Nectar Premier Mattress
Being a side sleeper has never been more comfortable. And here's why!
Best for Side Sleepers
Statistically, most people are side sleepers. However, not every mattress is created with only side sleepers in mind. That being said, the Nectar Premier Mattress is as close to side sleeping perfection as you can get!
This is mostly due to the construction of the mattress. It focuses on adaptability above all and we believe you can really sense the difference. While even most luxury mattresses have 7-zone support, the Nectar Premier goes up to a whopping 12 with its Honeycomb layers.
Not only that but it also has a solid 4cm of memory foam, allowing your hip and shoulder to sink in just enough to keep your spine properly aligned. And if all of that wasn't enough, the combination of a quilted top and a dynamic support layer brings some much-needed breathability into play. So, if you're a side sleeper, we'd say this is likely going to be your favourite mattress on the market.
KEY FEATURES:
- Type: Memory Foam
- Firmness: 6.5/10
- Thickness: 28cm
- Size: Single, Double, King, Super King
Advantages
Ideal for side sleepers
Your spine remains properly aligned thanks to the memory foam layers.
Good motion isolation
The multiple adaptive layers take care of motion transfer.
Forever warranty
You can spend the rest of your life on this mattress.
Disadvantages
Not perfect for everyone
Might not suit heavier back sleepers or stomach sleepers.
Best for Softness: Hypnia Supreme Memory Mattress
If you’re someone who is looking for a comforting mattress that has the perfect softness then look no further.
Best for Softness
This all memory foam, 4 layer mattress can provide you with comfort like no other. It’s definitely for those who prefer a softer mattress over a firm one. You sink in perfectly to it when lying on your side and you will feel supported from head to toe.
What’s more, it comes with a breathable cover that is followed by a graphite-infused foam layer that keeps your mattress cool all through the night. Hot sleepers will especially love this product for that reason. If you find yourself having night sweats or just not able to sleep due to the warmth, this mattress could be what you’re looking for.
Another positive to the Supreme Memory is it’s ability to quickly bouncy back to shape so the combination sleepers out there won’t have to worry about switching position too much in the night. This mattress can keep up with every move whilst having little to no motion isolation.
Check out our Hypnia Supreme Memory Mattress review.
KEY FEATURES:
- Type: Memory Foam
- Firmness: 5.5/10
- Thickness: 25cm
- Size: Single, Small Double, Double, Small Double, King, Super King, EU Double, King, Super King
Advantages
Great for side sleepers
You'll sink in enough to keep your body aligned while being supported.
Good motion isolation
Have an undisturbed sleep with no unwanted movement waking you up.
Removable cover
And washable cover that you can keep fresh and clean as often as you like.
Disadvantages
Off-gassing
This is totally normal, especially with a memory foam mattress, but it'll soon go.
Too soft for back sleepers
If you prefer a slightly softer mattress then you won't have a problem but the comfortable layers can make you sink in a little too much.
Edge support could be better
Overall support is good but not so much on the edge.
Best for Heavy Sleepers: OTTY Original Hybrid Mattress
The OTTY Original Hybrid Mattress is exactly how you would expect a hybrid mattress to be.
Best for Heavy Sleepers
It has the ideal balance of pocket springs and memory foam for both comfort and support. There isn’t anything too special about this mattress but it does the job and is a reasonable price too. It is one of the best you’ll find in this price range.
The varying foam in this mattress helps to create the ideal sleep environment for you to be comfortable throughout the night. As well as this, it has side supports to keep you supported from one edge to the other which means you can lie anywhere on the mattress and still have the pressure relief. It’s also good for those who are sharing the bed and can’t sleep in the centre of the mattress.
All the supportive structure in the OTTY Original makes for a good mattress for heavier sleepers without the risk of sinking too deep.
Have a read of our full OTTY Original review.
KEY FEATURES:
- Type: Hybrid
- Firmness: 7/10
- Thickness: 25cm
- Size: Single, Small Double, Double, King, Superking, EU Single, EU Double, EU King, Emperor
Advantages
Firm & supportive
Very comfortable and supportive of different sleep positons.
Great temperature regulation
Works with your body to keep you at the right temperature.
Removable cover
Plus, it's washable too.
Disadvantages
Poor durability
Some customers have complained about the durability.
Best Ergonomic Design
A top quality mattress with a top quality design that can give you a great sleep.
Best Ergonomic Design
This mattress gives good firm support in all the right places to keep your spine aligned and the rest of the body comfortable. Its key feature is its innovative SmartGRID layer that bends and adapts to your body shape and moves as you move during the night. This layer provides pressure relief whilst working as a comforting and cushioning aspect of the mattress. As well as this, it has the bonus of encouraging airflow through the mattress to reduce any trapped heat that, in turn, keeps you too warm.
Breathability is key to this mattress and can be enhanced through each layer of the HiGRID Premium. From a breathable cover to the durable pocket springs, air circulation can continue through to keep you cool.
One thing to note is that it can seem like quite a dense mattress initially which might not be ideal for some and it is a heavy mattress – so be aware if you need to move it around. We think this is a good mattress for those who are front sleepers.
You can find out more about it by taking a look at our full HiGrid Premium Hybrid Mattress review.
KEY FEATURES:
- Type: Hybrid
- Firmness: 8/10
- Thickness: 25cm
- Size: Single, Double, King, Super King
Advantages
No motion transfer
Bodily motion won’t be felt across the mattress.
Good edge support
No matter where you sleep on the mattress, you’ll feel supported.
Soft removable cover
The sleep surface is soft to the touch and can be removed for washing.
Disadvantages
Not as suitable for side sleepers
It’s a fairly firm mattress so you may find you don’t sink in enough.
Quite dense
A high-density product that initially feels firm.
Very heavy
Difficult to manoeuvre but does mean excellent quality.
Best Budget Mattress: Emma Original Mattress
Simple, yet effective – the Emma Original mattress is UK's most-awarded mattress, despite being an all-memory-foam, three-layer mattress.
Best Budget
It's the simplicity of this cosy, all-foam, medium-firm Emma Original mattress that makes it so special. Once you remove the machine-washable polyester cover, you're left with a zoned, counter-pressure HRX cold foam base, a pressure-relieving Visco elastic memory foam layer and an “ultra-breathable” Airgocell memory foam layer.
These three, combined, make up for a medium-firm mattress best suited for couples and side-sleepers, but that doesn't mean that others can't sleep on it, as well.
The Emma Original mattress is supportive and comfortable enough for all sleeping positions, and when you factor in the hypoallergenic and pressure-relieving properties, excellent motion isolation and competitive pricing – you get an excellent, all-around Emma mattress that anyone could enjoy.
Read our Emma Original Mattress review to learn more about this product.
KEY FEATURES:
- Type: Memory foam
- Firmness: 6/10
- Thickness: 25cm
- Size: Single, Small Double, Double, UK King, Super King
Advantages
Thermo regulating
Cool during the summer and warm during the winter
Removable & washable cover
Cover is entirely removable and machine-washable
10 year warranty
10 year warranty says enough about the quality
Disadvantages
Soft for heavyweight people
Heavyweight sleepers will find it too soft
Best for Front Sleepers: Silentnight Just Breathe Eco-Comfort Mattress
Stomach sleepers come with a few difficulties. However, this mattress might be the answer you've been looking for!
Best for Front Sleepers
If we had to point one mattress out that will give the average stomach sleeper some peace, it would be the Silentnight Just Breathe Eco-Comfort Mattress.
This is because of how it mixes softness and support to get the most optimal results. The top cover features a soft-knit cover and Eco Comfort Fibres™ that allow you to relax and remain comfortable. However, they're not so soft that your hips can dip into them and result in a bent spine.
When combined with the Miracoil® and Mirapocket® systems, your body gets the support it needs to remain in a good sleep position without crossing into discomfort. This is what makes it the best mattress for front sleepers in our minds. However, it also has some added nice features, like good breathability and a very good value for money.
KEY FEATURES:
- Type: Hybrid
- Firmness: 6/10
- Thickness: 24cm
- Size: Single, Double, King
Advantages
Supportive
The mattress has just the right amount of support.
Good price-value ratio
A very good price considering the quality.
Disadvantages
Not for everyone
Side sleepers might not find it as ideal.
Only comes in 3 sizes
Not too much size variety.
How to find the best mattress for yourself
Now that we've gone over all of the best mattresses we could find on the UK market, we want to break down what separates an amazing mattress from a less-than-ideal one. As you've noticed, choosing a mattress isn't always straightforward and you have to take your own sleeping style and preferences into account.
So, let's go over all of the questions you need to answer in order to narrow down your choices and find the mattress that's perfect for you! Just take note of all your answers and a few mattresses are bound to stand out as the best.
Do you sleep on your side, back or stomach?
First off, which position do you sleep in? Even among the best mattresses, if you get a model that isn't suited for your sleeping position, you could end up with a mediocre sleep quality. So, it's important to get this part right!
Therefore, we're going to go through the three main sleeping styles (side sleepers, back sleepers, and front/stomach sleepers) and discuss what kind of mattress each one requires.
The best mattress for side sleepers
Side sleepers have a distinct advantage over the other two types as they have strength in numbers! Most people do tend to sleep on their side, so, finding the best mattress for side sleepers typically isn't too difficult. That being said, with so many choices, it's easy to be a bit overwhelmed.
So, what makes a mattress perfect if you sleep on your side? The biggest factor to keep in mind is that you need to keep your spinal alignment healthy. This means that if you're of a smaller build, a softer mattress is your best option, as it will allow your hip and shoulder to sink in and keep your spine straight.
However, if you're a bit larger, the best mattress for you is likely going to be somewhere in the middle in terms of firmness. We know that might sound confusing but don't worry. We'll provide a very useful graphic you can use in order to see what you need once we move on to talking about mattress firmness.
For example
For example, let's compare three high-end mattresses: the Emma NextGen, the Simba Hybrid Pro and the Hypnia Supreme. We chose these three as they're all amazing in terms of overall comfort and quality. However, they also all have different firmness levels.
So, for side sleepers who are on the smaller side, the Hypnia is your best bet! This is because it's a lot softer than the other two and even provides a built-in topper for your hip and shoulder. On the other hand, a side sleeper with an average build would likely want the NextGen mattress as it's a tad firmer and provides more support.
Lastly, side sleepers with a larger build should look towards the Simba Pro, as it's even firmer than the NextGen without overdoing it. It offers just enough support to keep you healthy without sacrificing comfort.
The best mattress for back sleepers
When it comes to finding the best mattress for back sleepers, you'll usually want to go middle of the road. This is because a mattress that's too soft for your build will likely have your hips sink and put pressure on your lower back. On the other hand, if it's too firm for your build, your hips might end up slightly raised, once again curving your back.
So, for a lot of people, the best mattress is going to be right in the middle. Since it's not as big of a curve as with side sleepers, you don't want to go to either extreme. So, even if it's a premium mattress, if it's too soft or too firm, you might want to reconsider.
For example
Like we did for the previous section, let's now contrast and compare three mattresses that fit this category. For this section, we're using the Emma Zero Gravity, the OTTY Aura and the Dormeo Octasense.
As we've mentioned, you don't want to stray too far from a medium firmness rating. But there is a tad of wiggle room. For example, as a medium-soft, the Zero Gravity is ideal for smaller individuals or people who like extra cushioning. The OTTY Aura is just a tad firmer, standing at a medium rating, and is therefore the safest pick for many.
Lastly, the Dormeo Octasense is the firmest of the three, with a medium-firm rating. This should be just firm enough to support your spine if you're on the larger side while still preventing your hips from sinking too far in.
The best mattress for front/stomach sleepers
While it might seem counterproductive, the best mattress for front sleepers is usually on the firmer side. We say it's not exactly intuitive as you might rightly assume that since your chest and stomach can make up a more pronounced curve, they need to be accounted for.
However, just like with back sleepers, you mustn't put yourself in a position where your hips sink in too far and leave your spine bent.
This is also why when searching for the best pillow for front sleepers, you have to take extra precautions to keep your neck in a healthy position. So, whether it be the best pillow or the best mattress, look in the mirror and check whether your body is in a healthy position, with your spinal alignment being as straight as possible.
For example
Lastly, let's head over to our mattress comparison tool and see what a good firm mattress looks like. As we've done so far, we picked out three mattresses in the firm category that differ slightly in their rating. As the softest of the three, we have the Just Breathe Eco Comfort, which was also our overall winner in this category.
This is because as a medium-firm mattress, it should suit the vast majority of front sleepers, especially if you're on the smaller side. However, some might still prefer a slightly firmer model. So, we also want to highlight the Panda Hybrid Bamboo mattress. With a firm rating, it a bit more supportive than the Just breathe while also sharing many of the same hypoallergenic benefits.
Lastly, for those who want the firmest support, we have the Miracoil Ortho mattress. At an extra-firm rating, it's the most supportive of the three, and can help larger individuals stay comfortable and healthy while sleeping on their stomach.
The best mattress for combination sleepers
We also wanted to quickly address combination sleepers and how they should look for their perfect mattress. In case you didn't know, combination sleepers are people who cycle through two or all three sleeping positions during the night. So, should you just split the difference?
Well, it's a tough call. Ideally, even if you toss and turn, you'll have one sleeping position that you're in for the majority of the night. We'd say it's best to get a good mattress for that sleeping position, as you want to minimise the amount of time your spine is in an unhealthy position. However, if you cycle through all three pretty regularly, it can be smart to go for a medium-firm mattress.
But besides just being a medium-firm mattress, it should have some bounce as well. For example, when testing the Simba Hybrid Pro mattress, I found that it takes a bit for the foam layer to adapt to my movements. So, I wouldn't really recommend it to people who swap their sleeping position every few minutes. On the other hand, when I tested the Emma NextGen Premium mattress, I found that it could always keep up with my tossing and turning!
Lastly, you could also try to “swap” to just one sleeping position. For example, by putting pillows around your midsection and hips, you can make it less likely that you'll from your back to your side. And if you think the matter is serious, having a sleep study done is highly advised.
Firmness options & your weight
As you've likely noticed in the previous section, whether a mattress is soft or firm plays a big part in keeping you healthy. And you can't call it a perfect mattress if you wake up with back pain every morning! So, let's take a closer look at mattress firmness and see the part it plays in making the most comfortable mattress for you.
To put it simply, the firmness level of the mattress is basically how soft or hard it feels. Although it might seem rather easy to determine the firmness levels, in reality, it’s not that easy. Once again, you’re dealing with a subjective feeling – whether something feels soft or hard to you. However, there’s something called a firmness scale. That is a simple scale, from 1 to 10, that is used to measure how hard the mattress is, with 1 being the softest, naturally.
Your weight will somewhat determine how soft or firm you want your mattress to be. Once again, none of this is definitive, as only you can decide what feels right. In general, however, it is considered that a person on the heavier side of the spectrum should choose a firmer mattress (7 or up, on the scale) as it’ll offer more support for your body shape.
And if you need further assurance, we've also reached out to a few professionals to see their take on the matter. On the matter of mattress firmness, Dr. Tiffany Egan had this to say:
“Body weight and mattress firmness are important factors to consider when aiming for a good night's sleep. The amount of support needed from a mattress depends on size and body weight, as well as the type of sleeping position they prefer.
Dr Tiffany Egan, Chiropractor
Generally speaking, heavier people need a firmer mattress than lighter individuals in order to keep their necks and spine properly aligned. If a mattress is too soft, it can cause strain and pain in the neck and back due to a lack of adequate support. On the other hand, if a mattress is too hard, this may also lead to discomfort because it won't provide enough cushioning for pressure points.”
You can check out the table below to see some rough guidelines. And it's also important to mention that this isn't just about comfort. If you're on the heavier side, a soft mattress will allow for your stomach, hips and shoulders to sink in, curving your spine in the process and potentially causing aches in the morning. So, getting the best mattress for heavy people is a bit more complex than just seeing what feels the best after a few minutes.
Do you sleep solo or with a partner?
The next question you need to answer is whether the bed is just for you or not. And there are a few reasons for making this distinction. For one, the bed size you're going to need will differ depending on how many people will be sleeping there. But more on that later.
Secondly, features such as motion isolation are essential when sharing the bed. This is because, if you get out of bed during the night, you don't want to disturb or even potentially wake up your partner. So, the best mattresses for couples will typically have high motion isolation. This also applies if you share the bed with a pet but to a lesser extent.
Thirdly, every important feature has to be considered twice. For example, if you're a side sleeper but your partner is a back sleeper, you need to work out a plan on how you'll both have your needs met. After all, there's no point in finding the best mattress for yourself if your partner is going to suffer the entire time.
Do you tend to overheat?
Do you wake up every morning sticking to your sheets and covered in sweat? Does your partner complain that you're like a furnace? Well, the right mattress can potentially solve this issue for you! This is because overheating during the night can frequently be caused by a lower-quality mattress that traps your body heat.
So, if you do tend to get hot during the night, getting the best cooling mattress you can find will signal the end of your worries. Most of the time this means avoiding lower-quality memory foam, as only the mid-to-high range memory foam mattresses have a cooling mechanism, or just finding the best pocket spring or hybrid model on the market.
For example, when I tested the Emma Original mattress, which is Emma's budget-friendly option, I could feel it getting quite stuffy. However, when testing their higher-end models, like the Luxe Cooling mattress, I never got all that hot. This is because here the memory foam was infused with graphite to prevent it from holding onto body heat!
Overheating is especially an issue if you share the bed, sleep inside of a stuffy room, and/or use higher TOG duvets. So, while you're on your quest to find the one mattress that suits you best, make sure to take this into account.
Do you suffer from any pain?
We've already talked about how a good mattress can keep your spine healthy. However, you might already have certain pains that tend to creep up during the night. In these cases, there are two very important steps you need to take.
First off, seeing your GP is essential so that you know whether the source of the pain is temporary and can be fixed. Secondly, find the appropriate mattress that's going to keep your joints and back healthy so that the pain doesn't come back.
But that's just a general overview. Now let's talk about a few specifics. If you're looking for the best mattress for back pain get a slightly softer mattress if you sleep on your side and a slightly firmer mattress if you sleep on your back/stomach. And if you have hip pain and sleep on your side, a similar principle applies. So, make sure you get the perfect firmness level. We advise you to look at the table in the firmness section to confirm what that means for you.
You can also look into getting the best orthopaedic mattress, as they're typically made with the specific purpose of combating back/hip pain. And in case you have a very specific problem in this category, don't worry – we've covered just about everything. So, if you were wondering what the best mattress for fibromyalgia was, we have a guide for you. How about the best mattress for sciatica? We have that too.
So, if you have a specific condition that needs a specific mattress, just stick with The Sleep Advisors and we're sure to help you out. And if you have a different condition that might need our insight, tell us about it in the comments and we'll be sure to do our research and find the perfect mattress for you! Of course, do that after you've seen your GP.
Dealing with pain at night
Although having the best mattress for your build will make it so that you're less likely to experience back/neck pain, it's not the only factor at play. So, we decided to ask a professional for their take on the matter.
When asked, Dr. Alex Stone pointed out two major areas of interest:
“1. Mattress type: Opt for a mattress that provides adequate support and pressure relief, such as memory foam or latex. These materials can conform to your body's shape and reduce pressure on joints.
Dr Alex Stone, DPT, CSCS
2. Body positioning: Experiment with different sleeping positions to find one that alleviates joint pressure. For instance, side sleepers can bend their knees slightly and place a pillow between them, while back sleepers can use a pillow under their knees for added support.
Type Of Mattress & Construction
There are four main types of mattresses – memory foam mattresses, latex mattresses, innerspring mattresses and hybrid mattresses.
Each type of mattress has its own pros and cons. Therefore, the best mattresses come in different types that you need to be familiar with.
Memory foam mattresses are known for their ‘hugging feel’. They’re ideal for people who prefer a softer base, as well as for those who sleep on their side or get cold during the night. However, they're not ideal for people who tend to overheat at night. So, take these things into consideration before searching for the best memory foam mattress.
Latex mattresses are ideal for those who tend to move around a lot when they sleep. They offer solid support, they don’t feel hot, and they’re eco-friendly. But, they tend to be a bit more expensive than regular memory foam (especially if you opt for natural latex). So, the battle of latex vs memory foam has a few factors to consider.
Innerspring mattresses are one of the most popular types on the market, which is understandable since they are tailored to many. These can come with mini pocket springs as well. Mini pocket springs offer substantial support and bounciness, which many prefer. And if you're looking for breathability, getting the best pocket-sprung mattress should be your end goal. However, if you require significant pressure relief, you should probably look elsewhere.
Finally, hybrids are the newest addition to the mattress world and as you can tell from the name – they combine the best of all worlds. They’re both firm and supportive, while simultaneously offering relief to those in need. So, the best hybrid mattress has just about everything you could wish for. However, a bad hybrid mattress might just have all the downsides from both types – so, be sure to inspect it meticulously!
Additional mattress types
If you don't think that your dream mattress falls under any of the previous categories, you might still be in luck. This is because there are a few more mattress types (or mattress subtypes) that could better fit what you're looking for.
- Futon mattresses – If you're not working with a lot of space, getting the best futon mattress might be your best course of action.
- Pillowtop mattresses – If you're looking for a mattress that has some extra cushioning on the top, getting the best pillowtop mattress is likely going to put a smile on your face.
- Air mattresses – Not only are air mattresses very convenient if you move around a lot but they're also rather unique. For example, higher-end air mattresses can even have adjustable firmness levels!
- Water mattresses – While somewhat difficult to set up, waterbed mattresses are considered to be among the best when it comes to dealing with back pain!
How soon do you want to receive your mattress?
While a good delivery service doesn't make a mattress the best, it definitely does help. This is especially true if you're in a rush/have a busy schedule/need help bringing the mattress in. So, do you need your mattress right away or is it fine if it takes a while? Also, do you want a mattress that offers free delivery or old mattress removal? Then take a close look, as brands can differ quite significantly in this regard.
For example, if you're getting a Nectar memory foam mattress, you get free named day delivery and they can remove your old mattress for an additional fee. However, some other retailers might not have this option, meaning that you just have to hope that your mattress will arrive while you're at home. But they might also offer to dispose of your old mattress for free!
You also want to check whether you're getting a bed in a box or a rolled-up mattress. While the latter can be a lot easier to bring in, you typically can't use it right away – especially if it's a memory foam mattress. In my experience, it usually takes at least a day or two before a memory foam mattress performs at its best.
Lastly, the delivery time itself. While some brands might be able to get you your new mattress straight away, you might have to wait on others. For example, if you're getting a mattress from Brook Wilde, you might have to wait up to 16 weeks for their handcrafted models. On the other hand, most of the rolled-up mattresses I've ordered for testing have arrived within a week.
Would you like a mattress trial period before you commit?
It's no secret that mattresses can be expensive, especially if you're looking to snag the best mattress on the market. So, getting some time so that you can test mattresses and see what works for you is a big selling point to a lot of people.
This is especially important with memory foam mattresses as you can't even tell how good they are until you've slept on them for a night or two and the foam has expanded. And brands can vary drastically when it comes to trial periods. Some don't offer a trial at all while others, like Nectar for example, go up to an entire year!
That being said, make sure you read the fine print before committing. Most trials do come with certain stipulations and the last thing you'd want is to get the wrong mattress and then find out your trial is void. And under the same umbrella, we also have mattress warranties. Here we can see an even bigger gap, with warranties going from a few years to even a lifetime! But again, it's best to read the fine print.
What mattress size do you need?
On the surface, this is the easiest question to answer. You just have to make sure that your new mattress can fit inside your bedroom and that you can fit on your new mattress. However, there are a few details we'd like to point out in this category.
First off, take edge support into account. A Small Double with good edge support will typically be better than a Double with bad edge support as you can use the entire surface. It's also important to note that mattress sizes aren't universal. So, make sure to consult our mattress size chart if you have any questions.
You also want to match the best mattress with the best bed frame, as a mismatch between the two can lead to some very uncomfortable nights. And if you have a specialised bed frame, like an adjustable bed frame, look for the appropriate mattress. After all, it's not always a one-size-fits-all and there can be quite a discrepancy between adjustable mattresses and standard models. Even if you're getting the best floor mattress, which doesn't need a bed frame, consider the size as you don't want to get a model that can barely fit in your room.
How much do you want to spend on a mattress?
Even the best mattress isn't going to lead to a good night's sleep if you're worried sick about how you're going to pay it off. So, having a realistic idea of how much the price of mattresses can vary and how much you can afford will save you quite a few headaches. For example, if you want to keep things budget-friendly, check out our best cheap mattress picks instead of looking at luxury brands.
Also, note that there are a few factors that influence the price of the mattress. First off, note that the bigger the mattress, the bigger the price. So, if you want an Emperor mattress, keep in mind that it will be significantly more expensive than a Single. Secondly, the higher up the price ladder you go, the more well-rounded mattresses will typically be.
For example, in the £200-500 range, a memory foam mattress might offer great pressure relief but suffer a lot from overheating. But once you get to £1000+, even memory foam mattresses tend to be rather breathable. Or how the Simba Hybrid Essential Mattress doesn't have a removable cover but when you move up to the Hybrid Pro, it does.
And if this seems too intimidating, don't worry – quite a few of the bigger brands have the option to pay off your new mattress in multiple instalments.
Who is the mattress for?
This tip covers most of what we've already said but adds a bit of perspective to it. Namely, throughout we've assumed that you're buying the mattress for yourself. However, if you have a partner or are getting a mattress for someone else, make sure to consider their specific needs – even if they don't outright tell you.
For example, if you're getting a mattress for your kids, look for something with a lot of bounce and good breathability.
The best mattress for kids should also ideally come with an interesting bed frame that can make their bedroom seem more fun and inviting! On the other hand, if you're getting the mattress for your parents, make sure that there's plenty of pressure relief! If they have trouble getting out of bed, you can even look into low bed frames to make things a bit easier.
The same principle applies if you share the bed with a partner. If they overheat, get a mattress with excellent breathability. And if they tend to roll over to the edge of the bed, get the best mattress with edge support you can possibly find!
This might all seem obvious to some but it's important to remember that all of our sleeping preferences and sleep styles are different. In fact, even within The Sleep Advisors team, it takes at least three separate testers for us to get a good gauge of how the mattress performs overall. So, make sure to talk to your partner and work out what kind of mattress will satisfy you both.
What separates an ordinary mattress from a great one?
This is the most important question for us today. So, what are the things that make the mattress a good mattress? The best mattress to buy online has to be comfortable and good for your health.
Second, it has to have some additional features that separate it from other mattresses. Will it be a luxurious cover? Nice, cooling gel layer? Or, maybe the fact that it's good on your budget? Whatever it is, it needs to have something “more” that will make us stop and say: “I want that one!”
So, let's start with defining the rules by which we are going to pick and evaluate the best mattress options.
Comfort level
This was rather expected, putting comfort first. But we can’t stress this part enough. The mattress that provides you quality comfort also contributes to your health. A good mattress needs to take away all the pressure from your body and to treat you with perfect softness. This means that a comfortable mattress mustn’t be too soft. Mattresses that are too soft allow you to sink in and may hurt your back this way. Anyway, the sleeping surface that is too soft doesn’t provide the ideal relaxing effect.
Quality support
So, after comfort, we need to seriously talk about support. All of the top 10 mattresses in the UK we featured here have 5 stars for support. This feature is not important only for those who have back or neck problems. It is important to have a supportive mattress as a prevention – possibly one with a high-quality pocket spring system. It’s widely known that ill-designed mattresses or unsupportive mattresses can harm your health. They don’t just influence your back, shoulders and neck. They influence the quality of your sleep, mood and energy level.
Some studies talk about serious correlations between poor sleep and hormones. So, having all this in mind, it’s no surprise why we have put the support feature in the important second place. If you’re unsure of the kinds of mattresses which are good for you, you can see some differences between them with some memory foam, spring and latex guides we created just for you.
High breathability
Moving on from supportiveness, we come to another feature that is also directly associated with health. So, besides being good for your bones, muscles and overall body alignment, a mattress needs to be good on your respiratory system and skin, too. The breathability of the mattress plays a very important role in the quality of your sleeping experience. So, the breathability level of the mattress is our third important criteria.
Buying a mattress online can be tricky because you never know what to expect unless you are buying from a known and recognised mattress brand. Luckily, we’re here to give you all the necessary information so you can be prepared for the trial period.
Price to quality ratio
We have to make sure you also know our criteria for the price-to-quality ratio. Indeed, some of the mattress prices that made our list are expensive, but it’s for a good reason. We are not going to sugarcoat any of the products in order to promote them, because we care for the health of our readers. If a mattress or a pillow we review is overpriced – we will definitely tell you that. In this case, we really took a lot of factors into consideration, such as the quality of the material, hypoallergenic properties of the materials, sturdiness, back support and all-of-the-above mentioned features.
The reason we have to tell you this is because it’s important to know that buying a new mattress whether it’s from a shop or online is a serious investment. You want your mattress to last as long as possible and support your body shape in a way that will promote healthy sleep.
The details that complete the picture
Now, the last criteria will be concerning extra positive features of the mattress that are not directly associated with your health. So, now, we are talking about luxury, not necessities. Things such as easy maintenance, aches and pains elimination, hypoallergenic materials, cooling effect, easy to remove cover, eco-friendliness etc., will all fall into this category.
The advantages of owning one of the best mattresses
The advantages of the best mattress can only be explained in words so much. Until you lie down on a quality mattress, you can’t fully appreciate the benefits of sleeping on a quality surface. However, we can try and, frankly, that’s what we’re going to do.
Arguably the greatest advantage of owning the best mattress is the effect of quality sleep on your mind and body. Once you start waking up rested, without any pain and discomfort whatsoever, you'll find yourself enjoying life like you've never done before. Research has shown a direct correlation between high-quality sleep and general happiness and that's exactly what you get with the best mattress. So, getting a new mattress improves your overall health.
Another, often overlooked, advantage of quality mattresses is their hypoallergenic properties. A significant part of the human population suffers from allergies and low-quality mattresses are one of the main culprits. With a quality product – you can forget about allergies and dust mites!
To sum it all up, here are some of the main advantages of owning the best mattress:
- Better Quality Of Sleep
- Stress Reduction
- Improved Posture
- Less Snoring
- Pain Relief.
The definition of a pocket-sprung mattress
One of the most popular types is a pocket spring mattress. Pocket-sprung mattresses are defined by their main support layer made from individually nestled pocket springs. Each of these springs is encased in its own “pocket”, made from various fabrics. In some other sprung mattresses, these springs don’t move as a unit. Each spring in a pocket-sprung mattress moves independently in a pocket-sprung mattress. This allows for greater ease of movement, improved support and comfort, as well as some noticeable pressure relief. Pocket sprung is one of the best types of mattresses you can find!
Pros:
- Full body support
- Pressure relief and motion isolation
- Durable
Cons:
- Could become audible over time
- Sub-par edge support
- Rarely come with a removable cover.
The definition of an open coil mattress
Open coil mattresses, otherwise known as standard sprung, are mattresses made of hundreds of coils, usually made from high-tensile steel. Unlike pocket-sprung mattresses, open-coil mattresses don’t have individual coils or springs. Instead, they’re all connected to each other, and they all work as a unit. They’re spread through the entire mattress, offering solid support and comfort, as well as some pressure relief. They aren’t considered too durable, but if made well, they could last a long time.
Pros:
- Full body support
- Good price-to-value ratio
- Often an ortho mattress, and good for aches and pains
Cons:
- Could become audible over time
- Sub-par edge support
- Sub-par motion isolation.
The definition of a memory foam mattress
Memory foam mattresses are one of the most popular types of mattresses today. More often than not, you can find two or more types of memory foam in a single mattress. Often in the form of multiple layers of memory foam. Usually, there is a comfort and a support layer. The support layer is usually firmer and made from high-density memory foam. Whereas the comfort layer is usually made from softer memory foam.
They’re great at relieving pressure and pain, isolating movement, offering great support throughout the mattress, are good for your back and are always quite comfortable.
Pros:
- Excellent support
- Excellent pressure relief and motion isolation
- Very comfortable
Cons:
- Some off-gassing issues
- Slight temperature regulation issues
- They can be quite heavy
The definition of a latex mattress
Latex mattresses aren’t entirely made of latex. They're usually either a memory foam mattress or a pocket-sprung mattress with a durable and supportive latex layer added to the mix. Latex is a natural product, so often, mattress manufacturers combine latex with other natural fillings.
What makes latex mattresses special is that they’re eco-friendly, naturally hypoallergenic, easy to take care of and they often last a very long time.
Pros:
- Pressure-relieving and elastic
- Naturally hypoallergenic; eco-friendly
- Extremely durable
Cons:
- One of the most expensive types of mattresses
- Some people are allergic to latex
- Some may find them too firm
The definition of a sprung-memory foam mattress
Nowadays, we can also experience sprung-memory foam mattresses, otherwise known as hybrid mattresses. Combining the excellent support of springs with the comfort and pressure relief of memory foam, hybrid mattresses truly bring us the best of both worlds. Many would agree that they’re the best, most complete mattresses you can buy. They are often very supportive, as well as comfortable. Sprung-memory foam mattresses offer great pressure and pain relief, as well as great motion isolation. They are also durable and long-lasting.
Pros:
- Excellent support and comfort
- Pressure relief and motion isolation
- Very durable
Cons:
- Edge support is a common problem
- They might retain heat
- They’re often expensive
How we made our ranking
Lastly, we wanted to go into a bit more detail on how we made our ranking. This is so that you know that we've done our homework and aren't throwing out suggestions lightly!
First off, we test all of the mattresses we feature. Not every mattress gets an in-depth review but each one is thoroughly tested by at least three members of our team. The tests are done over a long period, so we can gauge how well a mattress holds up. You can read our methodology section for more information.
Our testers are also CPD-certified in the field of sleep science. So, we understand what has to happen for you to get a good night's sleep and stay healthy. And you can learn more about our presenters right here.
Lastly, we listen to the community! Even though we are sleep scientists and do our own testing, we still check to see what the community at large has to say. This covers everything from our YouTube comments to TrustPilot scores. We strongly encourage you to reach out if you have any questions via our contact page!
Conclusion
So, the Emma NextGen Mattress came out as an absolute winner in this UK best mattress competition. And, no wonder it did! This mattress has it all. The comfort and the support at a reasonable price point – plus it's good for back, stomach and side sleepers too.
It is truly one of the best mattresses ever! Of course, we need to be clear about one thing here. All the mattresses that even made our list are amazing. This list was merely picking the best mattress of the best. So, whether you choose Otty, Emma or Simba, you can’t go wrong. They are all good for something and have some speciality of their own. Try out the mattresses from our list and see why they ended up on it!
If you have any questions, want us to review a certain mattress, or are still not sure whether you've found the perfect mattress, leave us a comment or get in touch with us directly!
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FAQs about the best mattress
As with any other product, people want to know more than simply how much a product costs or how good it is. People buy products, mattresses in this case, for various reasons. Therefore, we’ve decided to briefly go over some of the most frequently asked questions.
In case you have additional questions about our mattress reviews UK picks, feel free to ask us.
What are the different types of mattresses?
You can find innerspring, memory foam, hybrid and air mattresses.
What is the most comfortable mattress in the UK?
Any of the products we’ve named in our list could be considered the most comfortable mattress in the UK – the only difference would be personal preference.
What mattress do chiropractors recommend?
In general, chiropractors recommend either hybrid or latex mattresses, as they offer significant full-body support.
Is it better to sleep on a firm or soft mattress?
Generally speaking, firm mattresses are better, however, if you’re sleeping on the side, you might enjoy a softer mattress quite a bit more.
How do I choose the best mattress?
First of all – follow your body. Secondly, you can use our guide to determine which mattress would be best suited to your needs.
How long does a mattress last?
Depending on the quality and overall craftmanship, a mattress can last up to 8 years. If maintained well, the lifespan could be extended up to 10 years.
How often should I replace my mattress?
A general rule is to replace a mattress every 6 years.
How to remove sweat stains from mattress?
Mix 1 cup of 3-percent hydrogen peroxide, 3 tablespoons of baking soda and a few drops of liquid soap. Spray the solution over the mattress and let it dry completely. The stains should be gone.
What should I do with the old mattress?
You can donate it, recycle it, sell it, repair or dispose it for free, which we described in our article.
Should I sleep on two mattresses?
Not at all. Stacking multiple mattresses on each other can cause nothing but a back pain or make you hot.
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