UK Mattress Buying Guide

Choosing the right mattress is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your sleep, health, and overall wellbeing. This guide will walk you through everything you need to consider before buying a new mattress — so you can find one that suits your sleep style, preferences, and budget.

1. Understand Mattress Types

There are four main types of mattresses in the UK, each with different support, comfort, and durability profiles:

• Memory Foam: Moulds to your body, offers pressure relief, great for side sleepers.
• Pocket Sprung: Individual springs encased in fabric. Offers support and bounce with minimal partner disturbance.
• Hybrid: A combination of memory foam and pocket springs. Offers the best of both worlds.
• Latex: Naturally breathable and long-lasting, ideal for allergy sufferers and eco-conscious buyers.

2. Choose the Right Firmness

The firmness level affects comfort and support based on your body weight and preferred sleep position:

• Soft: Best for side sleepers and lighter individuals.
• Medium: Ideal for combination sleepers or those who move around a lot.
• Medium-Firm: Great all-rounder for most body types and sleeping positions.
• Firm: Best for back and stomach sleepers or heavier individuals needing more support.

3. Consider Your Sleeping Position

• Side Sleepers: Need softer surfaces that cushion shoulders and hips (memory foam or hybrid).
• Back Sleepers: Need balanced support — medium-firm is usually best.
• Front Sleepers: Require firm support to keep the spine aligned.

4. Check Mattress Sizes

Make sure you choose a mattress size that fits both your space and your sleep habits. UK standard sizes include:

• Single: 90cm x 190cm
• Small Double: 120cm x 190cm
• Double: 135cm x 190cm
• King: 150cm x 200cm
• Super King: 180cm x 200cm

5. Don't Forget Mattress Depth

Mattress depth affects how much support and cushioning you get. Typical ranges include:

• Standard: 20–25cm
• Deep: 26–30cm+ (adds more luxury feel and pressure relief)

6. Certifications and Materials

Look for certifications such as:

• OEKO-TEX®: Tested for harmful substances
• CertiPUR®: Safe foam and emissions standards
• BS7177: UK fire safety regulation for domestic mattresses

7. Trial Periods and Warranties

Many UK mattress brands now offer:

• 100-night trials or longer – so you can test at home risk-free
• 10-year warranties on structure and durability

Always check the fine print to understand what’s covered and how returns work.

8. Mattress Care Tips

• Use a mattress protector to extend its life and prevent stains.
• Rotate regularly (every 3–6 months) to prevent sagging — unless it’s a one-sided design.
• Let it air out after delivery to eliminate foam odours and settle its shape.

9. Budget Breakdown

Good mattresses range from £200 to £1200+ depending on brand, materials, and size. Avoid going too cheap as it can affect your sleep and back health.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a quality mattress is essential for better sleep, improved posture, and daily performance. Use this guide to assess your needs before making your purchase.

Tip: Always compare prices across trusted UK retailers and consider user reviews for real-life comfort feedback.