- ThermoSync foam, memory foam, & pocket springs
- 25 cm (10 inches)
- Medium-firm
Tell me more about the Emma Luxe Cooling Mattress
Emma Sleep's most advanced Luxe Cooling mattress combines six layers of foam and springs for medium-firm support.
It ensures optimal spinal alignment with targeted support and sufficient push-back to prevent excessive sinking.
The mattress offers exceptional edge support, a standout feature not common in bed-in-a-box options.
It features enhanced temperature regulation technologies, so you won't feel as hot and clammy on this mattress as you may feel on other Emma memory foam mattresses.
The machine-washable cover is ideal for allergy sufferers and hygiene maintenance.
Delivered compactly rolled in a box, though it is notably heavy for easy manoeuvring.
Reasons to buy
200-night trial |
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10-year guarantee |
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Excellent edge support |
Reasons to avoid
The foams retain some heat and feel warmer than non-memory foam products |
|
We experienced some delivery issues during testing |
- Simbatex & Aerocoil springs
- 25 cm (10 inches)
- Medium-firm
Tell me more about the Simba Hybrid
The Simba Hybrid is an award-winning hybrid pocket sprung foam mattress by Simba Sleep.
This is a medium-firm mattress that's an excellent choice for a wide range of sleepers but is particularly suited to side sleepers.
The Simba mattress is supportive enough to prevent a build-up of tension but also soft enough to allow your body to sink in where necessary.
This allows for optimal spinal alignment.
The Simba Hybrid mattress comes with an antibacterial hypoallergenic cover, which is removable and machine-washable.
The Simba comes with free delivery, a 200-day risk-free trial period, and a 10-year guarantee.
Reasons to buy
200-night sleep trial |
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10-year guarantee |
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Excellent support for side sleepers |
|
Washable cover |
Reasons to avoid
May be too soft for larger builds |
- Memory foam & pocket springs
- 28 cm (11 inches)
- Medium-firm
Tell me more about the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid
The DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid is a premium mattress from the same company that makes the Nectar memory foam mattress.
It combines high-quality memory foam with full-size pocket springs (called ActiveEdge coils), each measuring 15 cm (5.9 inches).
This is an orthopaedically designed mattress with medium-firm support to help eliminate back, neck, and shoulder pains.
The mattress offers enhanced breathability to help keep you cool and refreshed all night long.
It also has low motion transfer and great edge support, making it an excellent choice for couples.
Reasons to buy
365-day trial period |
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Lifetime warranty |
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Excellent motion isolation for couples |
Reasons to avoid
Extra deep sheets required |
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Too firm for lightweight side sleepers |
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The cover is not removable |
- Pocket springs, Cloud-zoned foam layer & memory foam layer
- 25 cm (10")
- Medium-firm
Tell me more about the Hypnia Original Hybrid mattress
The standout feature of the Hypnia Original Hybrid mattress is its unique blend of layers, which provide excellent comfort and support.
The mattress is composed of pocket springs with 5 support zones, offering targeted support and effective motion absorption.
It also has a Cloud-zoned and memory foam layer for body-contouring support that adapts to pressure points.
The Hypnia Hybrid is comfortable in most sleeping positions, but particularly for side and back sleepers.
It also offers low-motion transfer, so we'd recommend it to couples and restless sleepers.
One downside is the non-removable cover, though using a mattress protector can help extend its lifespan and cleanliness.
Reasons to buy
200-night trial period |
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15-year guarantee |
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Just as comfy as pricier competitors |
Reasons to avoid
The cover is not removable |
|
Not the best delivery experience |
- Bamboo, memory foam & pocket springs
- 27 cm (10.6 inches)
- Medium-firm to firm
Tell me more about the Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pro mattress
The Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pro mattress is made in the UK and offers orthopaedic-grade support.
It's infused with bamboo, making it odour-resistant and highly breathable, and it also features a plush bamboo cover that's soft, temperature-regulating, hypoallergenic, and antibacterial.
We found the Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pro Mattress exceptionally comfortable, especially in the back-sleeping position.
The OrthoAlign foam optimises spinal alignment and works with a multi-zonal spring base for superior support.
Additionally, the mattress has 1,500 premium pocket springs that isolate motion, so you won't be disturbed by your partner.
Reasons to buy
Firm & supportive feel |
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Matching emperor mattress protector available |
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100-night trial period |
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10-year guarantee |
Reasons to avoid
Might be too firm for lightweight sleepers |
|
The mattress initially had a chemical smell that lasted a few days |
- Memory foam, micro springs & full-size pocket springs
- 28 cm (11 inches)
- Medium-firm support
Tell me more about the Nectar Premier Hybrid
The Nectar Premier Hybrid mattress is one of Nectar's best-selling medium-firm mattresses, designed for superior comfort and support for all body types.
This mattress has been designed with enhanced cooling in mind, wicking away moisture and allowing for greater air circulation. ❄️
This helps keep the mattress cooler and more comfortable, making it better suited to hot sleepers or those who sweat easily.
The combination of up to 2,462 micro springs and full-size pocket springs also aids support and gives you a more stable sleeping surface.
It also comes with a risk-free 365-day trial, giving you the chance to try the product in the comfort of your own home.
Reasons to buy
365-day trial |
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Lifetime guarantee |
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Free named-day delivery |
Reasons to avoid
Not the best edge support |
Best mattress UK runner-ups
While we've highlighted our top mattress picks, it's only fair to spotlight the noteworthy runner-ups that have also impressed us through rigorous testing and evaluation.
Although these mattresses didn't quite make the top list, their features and performance are too good not to mention. ⭐
Simba Hybrid Pro mattress
The Simba Hybrid Pro by Simba Sleep is a premium sleep solution that combines moisture-wicking natural wool, Simbatex foam, and Aerocoil springs.
This mattress is designed for those seeking maximum support and comfort, making it a standout in its category.
Emma Elite mattress
The Emma Elite introduces a groundbreaking sleep experience with its new AirGrid technology.
It instantly adapts to your body and sleeping position, ensuring you feel embraced, weightless, and cool throughout the night.
Hypnia Hybrid Supreme mattress
The Hypnia Supreme Hybrid mattress is another noteworthy contender with a unique pillowtop layer.
In addition to the pressure-relieving memory foam topper, it also combines pocket springs and a latex layer for an unparalleled sleep experience that caters to a wide range of sleep preferences.
Nectar Memory Foam mattress
The Nectar Memory Foam mattress is one of our favourite all-foam options.
With its 7 supportive contour zones, it's tailored to provide targeted relief and support, ensuring a restful night's sleep without compromise.
Origin Hybrid Pro mattress
The Origin Hybrid Pro stands out with its 8-layer construction and luxurious cooling materials.
Origin's most advanced mattress promises not only exceptional comfort but also optimal temperature regulation for those warm nights.
Our favourite UK mattress brands & online retailers
Here's a quick overview of our favourite UK online mattress brands and retailers.
Best mattress brands UK:
Simba Sleep
Simba Sleep makes some of the best hybrid mattresses in the UK.
Emma Sleep
Emma Sleep is the UK's most award-winning bed-in-a-box mattress brand.
Hypnia
Hypnia offers fantastic mattresses at the best prices.
DreamCloud
DreamCloud produces the Luxury Hybrid mattress that offers premium quality with free delivery and a 365-day trial period.
Nectar
Nectar offers high-quality memory foam and hybrid mattresses with an unbeatable 365-day trial period.
Panda London
Panda is best known for its sleep accessories but the new mattress is very impressive.
Otty Sleep
Otty Sleep makes a variety of high-quality hybrid mattresses.
Should you buy a bed-in-a-box mattress?
You may think you'll have to buy IKEA mattresses to shop on a budget, but this isn't necessarily true.
Bed-in-a-box mattresses offer unbeatable value for money!
A bed-in-a-box mattress is a high-quality mattress that's rolled up, vacuum-packed and sealed in a compact box that's shipped straight to your front door. 📦
Why the better price tag?
Since online retailers cut out the middleman, brands can afford to cut their prices and offer customers the best value for money. 🏷️
But there are so many more benefits to ordering your mattress online.
Consider the following:
- There's greater variety online at the mere click of a button.
- You can find great discounts and free gift options.
- You'll benefit from free delivery and returns.
- Most online retailers offer risk-free trial periods with a money-back guarantee.
- You can benefit from good warranty conditions.
Ordering online for the first time may seem a little daunting. 🤔
But that's why we're here to help you!
Sleep Hero is dedicated to helping you find the very best mattress for a good night's sleep. 😴
If you need some guidance to get started, we'd recommend you read these two articles:
Don't forget to check out our mattress reviews for a look at some of our favourite mattresses in the UK!
How should you start looking for a new mattress?
Do you need a new mattress?
If your old mattress is looking - and feeling - a little worn and you've been waking up with aches and pains, then it's probably time to upgrade your mattress. 👍
So how do you even begin choosing your brand new mattress?
It isn't always easy, so here's a very quick guide to some of the factors you'll need to consider. 🤔
Decide on your budget
Some mattresses may be the best on the market but come at an enormous cost. 💰
And others are very expensive but are actually pretty shoddy.
While it is always worth investing in the best you can afford, a cheaper price tag doesn't necessarily mean it's an awful mattress.
In fact, some of our favourite mattresses offer phenomenal value for money.
Consider your desired degree of firmness
Do you like soft mattresses, medium mattresses, or firm mattresses?
It's easy to think that soft mattresses offer zero support, but this isn't actually true.
Stability ensures your mattress can support you - and no matter your chosen firmness, a mattress should always offer good stability.
The degree of firmness of a mattress merely refers to the feel or sensation you'll experience when lying down.
Personal preference plays a part in this, but so does your body weight, build, and preferred sleeping position. 🧸
We look at the way sleeping position influences your mattress choice a little further down.
Establish your ideal sleeping temperature
Do you easily feel hot at night? 🌡️
Some mattress materials, like memory foam, retain more body heat than others.
Since the best temperature for sleep is around 18°C, the simplest advice is to choose anything with springs.
The spaces between springs create natural ventilation channels, allowing sprung mattresses to allow for much cooler sleep than their non-spring counterparts.
Determine your main sleeping position
Some mattresses are better suited to some sleeping positions than others. 🛌
While most people are combination sleepers, you may also be a pure front sleeper, back sleeper, or side sleeper.
Don't worry; we look at this in much more detail further down, or you can refer to the specific articles linked in the sentence above.
Confirm whether you're sleeping alone or with someone
Some mattresses are better suited to couples (and sex!) than others. 👩❤️👨
Your sleeping arrangement will also influence what size mattress to buy.
Of course, if you're sleeping alone, you can choose whichever mattress size you're most comfortable with (depending on your budget and the size of your bedroom).
But if you're sharing your bed with a partner, it's better to stick to larger mattress sizes.
How would you choose the best mattress material?
There are several different mattress materials to choose from, and there isn't necessarily a right or a wrong choice. 🙌
Mattresses can have any number of different fillings, ranging from synthetic foam to springs to natural coir and wool.
The material you choose depends on your personal preferences and sleeping requirements. 💤
The most popular mattress options include:
- Foam mattresses, including memory foam mattresses.
- Spring mattresses, including pocket sprung mattresses and open coil mattresses.
- Natural and organic mattresses, including latex and wool mattresses.
- Hybrid mattresses, which generally combine foam and springs.
Mattress materials largely influence the specific characteristics of your bed.
We'll look at the most common mattress materials below. 👇
Best memory foam mattresses
Memory foam (also often called viscoelastic polyurethane foam or low-resilience polyurethane foam) is a foam made predominantly of polyurethane [1] and a few additional chemicals to increase viscosity and density. 🧪
Memory foam is characterised by its so-called memory effect or memory imprint.
When you apply pressure to the foam, it leaves an imprint that will remain visible for a few seconds.
Like this:
Memory foam responds to temperature, so it will be firmer when cold and softer when warmer.
As you warm up while sleeping, the foam will become softer and mould to your body even more. 🤗
Since memory foam is softer, most mattresses will include a top layer of memory foam with a cold foam base so you can still benefit from the right level of support.
One of our favourite memory foam mattresses is the Nectar.
It's not as soft as other memory foam options, making it an excellent mattress for a wide variety of sleepers.
On the downside, this temperature response also means that memory foam stores more heat than other types of foam.
If you're sensitive to temperature, sweat easily at night, or easily overheat, it's best to stay away from memory foam.
Even a thin layer of memory foam can drastically increase the temperature of your bed at night and affect your sleeping comfort.
Best pocket-sprung mattresses
There are many different types of spring mattresses. 🌀
These can be low-quality spring mattresses, like open coil mattresses, or high-quality spring mattresses, like pocket spring mattresses.
We would always recommend opting for higher-quality pocket-sprung mattresses.
In a pocket spring mattress, the spiral-shaped springs are all wrapped in individual fabric pockets - hence, pocket springs. 👛
Because they're not connected, as they would be in an open coil spring mattress, individual pocket springs can move independently of each other and ensure precise body adaption, allowing for better pressure relief.
Pocket spring mattresses won't ever just contain springs. 🙌
The springs will always be surrounded and covered by one or multiple layers of foam.
Some even have a cushioning pillow top for extra comfort.
One of our favourite hybrid pocket spring mattresses is the Simba Hybrid.
The mattress combines multiple layers of foam with mini pocket springs for superior body adaptation and offers a sleep that's both comfortable and supportive.
Best latex mattresses
Latex mattresses can be made from natural latex, man-made synthetic latex, or a combination of the two. 😮
Natural latex is harvested from tropical rubber trees.
Since this doesn't damage the tree, it's considered a fantastic natural and eco-friendly alternative to man-made mattress materials. 🌱
Pure latex mattresses are costly and exceedingly rare to find, so most popular latex mattresses will also feature numerous other layers of foam. 💰
Many online brands only use a thin layer of latex in a layered mattress to enhance breathability and support.
The Hypnia Supreme Hybrid mattress, for example, contains layers of latex, memory foam and pocket springs.
How can you choose a mattress according to your sleeping position?
Your preferred sleeping position influences the type of mattress you should choose.
If you sleep on your side, for example, it's likely that you'll need a softer mattress, while stomach and back sleepers generally need a firmer mattress.
Let's look at the best mattresses according to sleeping position in more detail. 👇
Best mattresses for side sleepers
We always recommend that side sleepers choose a softer mattress. ☁️
This is because side sleepers need a mattress that allows their hips and shoulders to sink in a little more deeply to achieve optimal spinal alignment.
Side sleepers should look for beds that:
- Have high point elasticity (meaning that the mattress will give way where pressure/weight is applied but remain unaffected elsewhere).
- Are a little softer.
- Allow for ideal spinal alignment.
- Come with integrated contour zones.
Suitable mattress materials include memory foam, cold foam, latex foam, and gel foam. ✅
Some pocket spring or hybrid mattresses, like the Simba Hybrid, allow for enough sinkage in the side position while still providing the necessary stability for the spine.
Best mattresses for back sleepers
Generally, back sleepers will benefit from slightly firmer mattresses. 🧱
This is because back sleepers require additional support, especially for the lighter parts of the body, like the head and feet.
If there isn't enough support at these points, your spine can't remain in an optimal alignment, which leads to lower back pain.
Back sleepers should look for mattresses that:
- Have high-point elasticity.
- Are a bit firmer.
- Allow for even pressure distribution.
We would recommend mattresses composed of springs, firmer memory foam, gel foam, or cold foam. ✅
We wouldn't recommend pure latex or memory foam mattresses as these may be a little too soft and won't offer enough stability. ☹️
The Emma Luxe Cooling mattress is an excellent choice, offering a slightly firmer feel.
Best mattresses for stomach sleepers
Sleeping on your stomach isn't the healthiest position and can result in quite severe neck tension. 😩
But we know that sometimes all you need is to hug your mattress.
Stomach sleepers should choose a firm mattress.
This is because firm mattresses provide sufficient support to the pelvis, which prevents the formation of a hollow back.
Stomach sleepers should look for mattresses that:
- Are firm.
- Allow for even pressure distribution.
These elements enable spinal alignment.
We would recommend mattresses with a spring core, as well as hybrid mattresses made of cold foam, gel foam, or memory foam.
One of the firmest mattresses we've tried is the Origin Hybrid, which would be well suited to stomach sleepers.
Alternatively, check out our best firm mattress UK reviews.
Please keep in mind, though, that if you sleep on your stomach, you're likely to struggle with neck and shoulder tension no matter the mattress you choose.
To alleviate some of this discomfort, avoid sleeping without a pillow and opt for an adjustable memory foam pillow, like the Brigthr Sleep Eclipse Pillow or the Emma Microfibre pillow, instead where you can sleep on only the thinnest layer for maximum comfort and some support.
You may also want to invest in a massage gun to loosen up some of that unavoidable tension.
How do you choose a mattress to meet specific requirements?
Not all mattresses are created equal - but neither are we.
You may find yourself in a position where you're looking for a particular type of mattress.
We have a whole host of these articles, which you'll find in the full listing at the bottom of this page, but here we address some more common concerns.
What mattresses are best for allergies?
If you're struggling with allergies, it's best to opt for pure foam mattresses.
Memory foam mattresses like the Nectar Memory Foam and the Emma Original are fantastic options.
Bed bugs and other allergy causers have much less space to survive in a foam mattress than they do in a mattress with springs.
It's also worth investing in synthetic sleep accessories, which are less likely to cause allergies, and allergy-friendly bedding materials like silk pillowcases.
What mattresses are best for back pain?
Back pain is a common concern.
Some pain may be caused by an unsuitable mattress, but you may also be struggling with regular issues due to poor posture, injuries, or illness.
The best mattresses for back pain will offer orthopaedic relief and are likely to be made from softer, more mouldable materials like memory foam.
To find the best orthopaedic mattresses, take a look at our guide on the best mattresses for back pain.
What mattresses are best for sex?
Couples have unique requirements and most would be interested in finding the best mattress for sex.
While memory foam can be comfortable to sleep on, it may be the worst material for sex if it causes you to sink into the foam too much.
Something like a pocket spring mattress or a hybrid mattress, which offer good levels of support and some bounce, will be much better suited.
The DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid mattress is a great choice for couples and sex.
Check out our full guide on the best mattresses for sex to find the most suitable option.
What's the best mattress for hot sleepers?
While the UK isn't known for its soaring temperatures, we have been experiencing some pretty warm days during the summer months.
Heat and sleep don't go well, and if you're sleeping on a mattress that retains more heat, you're likely to wake up in a sweat.
The Emma Elite mattress is made with a Gel Grid layer and pocket springs for maximum airflow.
Alternatively, read our guide on the best cool mattresses to enjoy the optimal sleeping temperature year-round.
Which criteria should you look out for when buying a new mattress?
You can trust that we've done our research and will only recommend best-buy choices. ⭐️
But how do you know if a mattress is a good buy or not?
You can use these four simple criteria to guide you. 👇
1. Focus on quality mattresses
It may seem obvious, but the quality of your mattress really matters.
After all, your mattress directly affects the quality of your sleep - and your sleep affects the quality of your life!
Regardless of what mattress you go for, you should always opt for the highest quality you can afford. 👍
Determine the quality of foam mattresses
If you're considering the quality of a foam mattress, you need to look at the density of the foam used.
Density is measured in units showing how much foam was used for one cubic metre. 🧊
In general: The higher the density, the higher the quality of the mattress.
Higher-density materials are also likely to last much longer.
This means you can enjoy your mattress for a longer time. 🗓
We'd recommend opting for a mattress of at least 40 kg/m³
Determining the quality of spring mattresses
To determine the quality of spring mattresses, you need to look at how many springs the bed contains. 🌀
The higher the spring count, the higher the quality of the mattress and the more likely it is to last.
We recommend choosing a mattress with at least 350 springs for the smallest size.
2. Find the right degree of firmness
Mattresses come in different degrees of firmness. ⛅️🧸🧱
As with mattress materials, there is no right or wrong choice here.
The right degree of firmness for you depends on your personal preferences and requirements. 🧐
Your body type and preferred sleeping style also play a role:
- Lighter-weight people and side sleepers often prefer softer mattresses.
- Average-weight people and combination sleepers do well on medium-firm mattresses.
- Heavier-weight people and pure back sleepers, and stomach sleepers often prefer firmer mattresses.
But as long as you're well-supported, any degree of firmness could theoretically work. 👍
What should a good mattress be able to do?
A suitable mattress relieves pressure and supports the body.
It’s designed to cushion the entire body while supporting the hips and spine. The shoulders, pelvis, and hips sink in so the body is balanced and the spine is aligned.
Walter Braun
Mattress Expert
We've considered the best mattresses according to sleeping position in more detail above.
3. Choose the right mattress size
Choosing a mattress that will fit your bed frame and bedroom is essential.
Most mattresses are available in the standard UK mattress sizes. 🇬🇧
These include:
- Single mattresses: 90 x 190 cm (3' x 6'3")
- Small double mattress: 120 x 190 cm (3’9” x 6’2”)
- Double mattresses: 135 x 190 cm (4'6" x 6'3")
- King size mattresses: 150 x 200 cm (5' x 6'6")
- Super-king-size mattresses: 180 x 200 cm (6' x 6'6")
We'd recommend that couples go for a double bed or larger.
Some mattress brands offer European sizes, custom sizes, and the luxurious emperor bed size, but these are rarer. 👑
Of our favourite online mattress brands, only the Otty Hybrid is available in the emperor size.
4. Pay attention to the trial period
Most mattresses purchased online come with a risk-free trial period. 🤩
A 100-night trial period is standard, but some mattress brands offer even longer trials.
Trial periods give you the chance to try out the mattress in the comfort of your own home - and allow your body to get used to the new bed. 🏡
Sometimes, it can take up to 3 weeks to get used to a new mattress, especially if it is vastly different from your old mattress!
We love a good risk-free trial period. 🥳
If you're not completely satisfied with your purchase, you can return the mattress for a full refund!
Do sleep accessories and bedding choices matter?
You may have the best mattress in the world, but you also want to make sure you can enjoy your entire sleep setup!
That's why we also explore the world of sleep accessories:
There is a whole world of decisions to make when choosing one of these, so we'd recommend heading straight to the linked articles for more information. 🤓
But we have linked a few of our favourites below.
Our favourite UK sleep accessories:
So, what's the best mattress UK?
So, now you may be wondering if we have a verdict on which mattress ranks as the best mattress UK. 🇬🇧
But a more important question to be asking is: Which mattress is best for you?
Finding the right mattress isn't always easy - but it doesn't have to be an absolute nightmare, especially since we're here to guide you every step of the way.
Look for mattresses that match your budget, preferred degree of firmness, ideal temperature, favourite sleeping position, and personal needs, and you'll be good to go. 🥳
You'll find links to all of our UK best mattress reviews and best mattress articles below.
Or scroll to the top of the article to explore our top 6 best mattresses in the UK.
Together, we'll find the mattress that's made for you. 🥰
Alternatively, message us directly via the Contact Us page.