According to Mental Health UK, for every five of you reading this, one person will not be getting enough sleep. Given that improper sleep can lead to a whole range of negative impacts on physical and mental wellbeing, that’s quite a worrying figure. Of course, the best night’s sleep begins with your bed, which is why when it comes to navigating different types of mattresses, it’s especially important to understand what you’re looking for and what’s out there. That’s where we come in!
In this comprehensive buyer’s guide, we’ll explore all you need to know about the kinds of mattresses on the market. By the end, you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that you’re better equipped to make this all-important choice.
Do You Need a New Mattress?
First thing’s first, how do you even know that you need a new mattress? It might seem like a simple question with an obvious answer, but it goes much deeper than visual wear and tear. For instance, did you know that most experts suggest replacing your mattress at least every 6-8 years? Here are a few less obvious indicators that it’s time to make the swap:
- You’re noticing new body pains and stiffness when you wake up in the morning
- You keep rolling into the middle of your bed (unintentionally!)
- Your best sleep is in a different bed
- You’re waking up constantly tired
If you’re experiencing any of the above, then your mattress is likely the culprit. Of course, it’s not always necessary to buy a new mattress if you’ve had a couple of sleepless nights, but if any of the above issues are consistently happening, or if a few issues are ongoing at the same time, then it is probably time to explore your options!
How to Choose a Mattress: Key Considerations
Purchasing a new mattress can be quite daunting. After all, with the average cost of a mattress in the UK sitting anywhere from £100 to several thousand pounds, there can be a substantial amount of money riding on your choice. So, before clicking ‘checkout’, there are a few considerations you should dwell on.
Bed Base
First up, you need to match your mattress to your bed base. At a basic level, you’ll want to make sure that the mattress will fit on the bed frame: it’s no use placing a king size mattress on a double bed frame! Luckily, mattress and bed sizes tend to be fairly consistent with most retailers, meaning it is quite a straightforward process. However, it is advisable to measure your bed frame accurately to compare to the mattress dimension if you’re at all unsure.
It goes beyond size though! The specific type of bed frame can make a huge difference to how your chosen mattress will function. Generally, slatted bases will soften the feel of the mattress, whilst solid bases (such as divan beds) tend to have a firming effect.
Additionally, it is worth noting that your mattress will contour to your bed base, and so it is important to make sure the latter is up to scratch to prevent premature wearing and efficient support. If you’re dealing with a few broken slats, for instance, it’s best to tackle that first at the risk of causing mattress sagging.
Psst… Have we got you thinking about choosing a new bed frame? Then you’re in luck - we have a whole comprehensive guide on that too!
Support and Comfort Level
Perhaps the most important consideration, the level of support should be near the top of your priority list. Not to mention the fact that a high-quality mattress is the ultimate addition to elevate the cosiness of your bedroom!
As you might be familiar with, mattresses are typically available in three levels of ‘firmness’: soft, medium, and firm. Each has different benefits and potential drawbacks, but it is important to acknowledge that, as of yet, there is no industry standard for measuring mattress firmness. As such, there are no hard or fast rules for choosing between different types of mattress support levels other than your personal preferences and what works best for your body.
That being said, there are some general guidelines that can help to ensure that you get the most out of your chosen mattress. The most important aspect is to ensure that your spine remains aligned as you sleep, which will vary depending on your sleeping position:
- For Combination Sleepers:Medium firmness allows for versatility.
- For Back Sleepers:Medium-firm options are best to prevent the back from sinking into the mattress and misaligning the spine.
- For Front Sleepers:Medium-firm to firm options will maintain a neutral spring position.
- For Side Sleepers:Softer mattresses will allow the shoulders and hips to sink without causing joint pressure.
Additionally, there should be a very slight gap between the small of your back and the mattress. If there’s no space, the mattress is likely to be too soft. If there’s a large space, then the mattress is too firm to offer the level of support needed.
There is also some evidence to suggest that body weight and type can have an impact on the type of mattresses that are best for different individuals. Some suggest that people with heavier builds will probably get a better experience out of a firmer mattress, whereas smaller frames might feel better on a softer surface. However, it is important to balance such considerations with the other influential factors mentioned above.
Budget
Next, and this one’s big: budget. Similar to most big investments, you’ll ultimately get what you pay for. To put it another way, the cost of constant bad sleep quality will likely outweigh the monetary difference between a bad quality and good quality mattress.
But that’s not to say that you need to take out another mortgage to buy a new mattress! Different retailers will have different standards to suit different needs and desires. For a good quality everyday double mattress, for instance, you should have plenty of options at around the £500 mark, though there will also be cheaper choices out there too.
Ultimately, you should balance your specific sleep needs with the price you’re willing to pay, as well as the longevity of the mattress versus the upfront cost. In the long run, you may end up paying more to replace a cheaper mattress three times in the time that a quality model can last!
Added Features
We all sleep differently and so all have different needs to be met in a mattress. You should consider whether or not any of the many added features available on the market are worth it for you. Here are some popular extras to consider:
- Motion Isolation: If you find yourself constantly being disturbed by a restless partner (or even if you’re said restless partner), then motion isolation properties might be ideal.
- Edge Support: To prevent mattress sagging and to aid in sleeping near the edge, reinforced edges can stop the bed sinking in at the sides.
- Modular Firmness: If you and a sleeping partner prefer different firmness levels, there are split mattresses out there which can cater to the both of you. In a similar vein, some mattresses offer zoned support to provide firmer and softer zones that cater to different parts of the body.
- Smart Features: Some premium kinds of mattresses now include added technology such as sleep tracking sensors, automatic firmness adjustment, or even temperature control.
- Hypoallergenic Properties: If you suffer from allergies, certain mattress materials such as latex or antimicrobial treated fabrics can bring you relief whilst you sleep.
Different Types of Mattresses
So, you’ve thought carefully about what you’re looking for, and how much you’re willing to pay. Now for the star of the show: types of mattresses.
Whether you’re prioritising comfort, support, added features, or budget, each type of mattress can cater to various sleeping preferences. In this section, we’ll introduce you to the different mattress types, their key benefits, and their general price range to help you make an informed decision for a better night’s sleep.
Types of Sprung Mattress
A sprung mattress refers to any mattress that uses coils or springs as the main support system. They tend to provide a great balance of comfort and durability and make up the majority of options on the market.
| Type of Mattress | About | Benefits | Price Range |
| Open Spring (aka Bonnel springs) | Rows of springs connected to one another by a wire and a thicker outer wire to secure the perimeter. | Offer a good level of support in a variety of firmness levels whilst still being affordable. | £-££ |
| Pocket Spring | Like ‘open spring’, but each spring is contained in a pocket of fabric. | Allows independent movement without disturbing a sleeping partner or rolling into the middle. | ££-££££ |
| Mini Spring | Like ‘pocket spring’, but with smaller and lighter springs often used to create layers and increase the number of springs in the mattress. | Even better mattress response, enhancing comfort and motion isolation. | ££ |
| Hybrid | Combines a pocket sprung base with layers of advanced foam materials. | Very luxurious, offering depth and breathability for hot sleepers. | £££-££££ |
| Natural | Essentially a pocket sprung mattress but constructed with chemical-free materials like wool. | Typically completely recyclable without sacrificing comfort. Can also be anti-bacterial, mould-resistant and cooling. | ££££ |
| Orthopaedic | Usually a pocket sprung mattress with thicker springs resulting in a firmer feel. | Design enables better distribution of weigh with added support to shoulders, hips, and back. | ££-£££ |
Types of Non-Sprung Mattress
Non-sprung mattresses encompass anything that doesn’t fit into the traditional spring-based category. They are often preferred for their unique ability to contour to the body and other specialised benefits, making them great choices for those seeking a more customisable sleep experience.
| Type of Mattress | About | Benefits | Price Range |
| Memory Foam | A type of viscoelastic material designed to contour to the body’s heat and pressure. | Great for pressure release and supporting sore joints. Also, isolates movement very well. | ££-££££ |
| Latex Foam | Made from either natural or synthetic latex with a level of natural elasticity that maintains its shape over time. | Evenly distributes pressure allowing for independent support along with natural anti-microbial properties. | £££-££££ |
| Gel | Relatively new and often combined with other materials. A type of memory foam with gel layers or beads to improve temperature regulation. | Excellent cooling effect when compared to a traditional memory foam option whilst still providing the key benefits of the latter. | ££££ |
| Flotation | Also known as waterbeds. They use water as the primary support system. Available in free-flow or waveless models depending on desired level of water movement. | Water conforms to the body, reducing pressure points effectively. Some even have built in heating systems to create a warm surface. | ££-££££ |
Myth Busters
Before we wrap up this guide on how to choose a mattress, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions that can lead to unnecessary confusion in the buying process. Allow us to debunk some of the most common!
Myth: A Firmer Mattress is Always Better for Your Back
Fact: The best mattress for your back will primarily depend on your sleep position and your personal comfort preferences. Some might benefit from a firmer option, whereas a softer and more contouring mattress might provide better support for others. A medium firmness is likely to be best. In fact, if a mattress is too firm, it can simply exacerbate back pain.
Myth: More Springs is Always Better
Fact: The number of springs doesn’t guarantee better comfort or support. Past a certain point, it becomes more of a numbers game than anything else. The type of springs and how they’re designed will play a much bigger role in comfort.
Myth: You Can’t Sleep on a Memory Foam Mattress if You Get Hot
Fact: Whilst it is true that traditional memory foam can trap heat, newer models such as our Ice Chill 1000 Mattress feature cooling materials and technology, which makes them more than suitable and very comfortable for warm sleepers.
Myth: A More Expensive Mattress is Always Better
Fact: Price does not always directly equate to quality. What is important is finding a mattress that suits your body type, sleep style, and preferences before price takes precedence.
Myth: A Mattress Protector Can Fix a Sagging Mattress
Fact: Mattress protectors are essential for maintaining hygiene and extending the life of your mattress. However, they aren’t a magical fix-all and can’t act as a replacement for a new mattress.
Don’t Lose Sleep Over Types of Mattresses!
Phew! As you can see, there really is something for everyone when it comes to types of mattresses. With so many options available, understanding the different types can help you to make a more informed decision to suit your needs and preferences. Remember – the best mattress for you is the one that ensures a restful, pain-free sleep night after night.
Looking to explore quality mattresses? Then look no further than our range for ultimate comfort! Or maybe you fancy some more advice? In which case, our furniture and interior design blog is full to the brim of exciting and informative content to help you make the most out of your home.
