Nectar vs Simba Hybrid

Nectar Vs. Simba Mattress Comparison UK (2024)

Last updated: 20.02.2024 Reading time: 13 Min.

The Nectar mattress and Simba Hybrid are two popular bed-in-a-box brands with much to offer.

But which one is the best mattress? 🤔

Choosing between Nectar or Simba is a matter of personal preference.

While Nectar has an unmatched guarantee and sleep trial, the Simba Hybrid has an advanced design for exceptional breathability and comfort.

We've broken down their key features below to help you decide.

Let's get started. 👇

nectar vs simba

Nectar vs Simba Hybrid mattress comparison

The Nectar and Simba Hybrid are high-quality mattresses that can be life-changing in providing quality sleep.

But there are some significant differences between them.

We've tested both the Nectar and Simba Hybrid mattresses. 🔬

In fact, we've got in-depth articles on each:

Our Simba and Nectar mattress comparison table offers a breakdown:

Nectar mattress Simba Hybrid
Type of mattress: Full memory foam mattress Hybrid mattress with foam and springs
Mattress height: 25 cm (10”) 25 cm (10”)
Mattress layers:

Dynamic support foam layer

Pressure-relieving memory foam

7 zone supportive base

Open-cell, graphite-infused Simbatex foam

Aerocoil mini conical pocket springs

Stability layer

SupportCore barrel spring base

Cover:

Tencel cover is removable but not washable

Includes an anti-slip base but no handles

Polyester cover that can be removed and machine-washed

Larger sizes include 4 handles

Firmness: Medium-firm (7/10) Medium-firm
(6/10)
Stability & support: Orthopaedic mattress that provides excellent stability and pressure relief. Highly supportive with great flexibility and edge-to-edge support.
Suitable for:

Average and heavier weights

Side and back sleepers

Cold sleepers

Couples

Light and average weights

Side and back sleepers

Hot sleepers

Couples

Temperature: Good temperature regulation but may be too warm for hot sleepers Highly breathable with excellent temperature regulation
Motion isolation: Low motion transfer Low motion transfer
Purchase: BUY NECTAR MATTRESS£ 349 FREE PILLOW - SIMBA HYBRID£ 599

Comfort: Nectar vs Simba mattress

The Nectar and Simba Hybrid offer medium-firm support, low-motion isolation, and excellent spinal support and comfort. 🙌

But comfort is subjective.

That's why you need to consider your individual needs, which determine how comfortable you might feel on either mattress.

Both mattresses are great for side sleepers

The Nectar and Simba mattresses are designed to contour around the joints for immediate pressure relief, making them an excellent choice for those who sleep on their side.

The Nectar and Simba Hybrid can adapt around the joints in the side sleeping position, even for lighter sleepers who typically find it more difficult to sink into a standard mattress. ⚓

Take a look at the Nectar (pictured left) and the Simba (pictured right) below:

Side sleeper on Nectar mattress

Side sleeper on Simba Hybrid mattress

Both mattresses are rated medium-firm, making them the ideal firmness for side and back sleepers.

The Nectar Memory Foam mattress has a more solid feel, while the Simba Hybrid has a softer, springier surface.

Unfortunately, both mattresses are too soft for stomach sleepers who require a mattress with firm support.

Sleeping on a mattress that’s too soft prevents the spine from remaining in a neutral position and may cause back pain. 😖

We'd recommend a firmer hybrid option to stomach sleepers, such as the Origin Hybrid mattress.

The Simba Hybrid is the best at absorbing motion

Both mattresses provide a "hugged in" feeling that gently cushions pressure points and a supportive base that distributes weight evenly.

They also have excellent motion isolation. ✔️

Benefits of low motion transfer
Low motion transfer mattresses are an excellent choice for couples.

This means you shouldn't feel your partner moving around on the other side of the bed while you sleep.

Both mattresses absorb motion exceptionally well, especially compared to standard coil mattresses.

However, the Simba Hybrid has the best motion isolation.

While the Nectar Memory Foam mattress is pretty good at absorbing motion, we still felt a little movement from our partner during the night. ⛵

FREE PILLOW - SIMBA HYBRID£ 599

The Nectar mattress is slightly firmer

The Nectar and Simba Hybrid are both considered medium-firm, which makes them particularly appropriate for side and back sleepers.

To determine firmness, we rank each mattress between 1 - 10, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest.

However, we rated the Nectar mattress slightly firmer with a 7/10 rating compared to the Simba Hybrid, rated 6/10 on our Sleep Hero firmness scale. 👇

Nectar mattress firmness

While the Nectar foams provide more solid support, the Simba Hybrid's pocket spring layer is more flexible than the firm base foam layer on the Nectar mattress.

This means the Simba Hybrid has slightly more give, which might be more comfortable for lighter-weight sleepers.

Yet, fans of a firmer-feeling mattress may find the Nectar mattress more suitable. 🧱

BUY NECTAR MATTRESS£ 349

The Simba Hybrid has better edge support

Edge support is the stability and firmness at the very edge of the mattress.

Memory foam mattresses often fall short in this area because foam tends to sink and can even sag over time.

The Nectar mattress has average edge support.

edge support test Nectar mattress
The edge of the Nectar Memory Foam mattress sagged in our test.

This is not ideal for those who regularly sit on the end of their bed to get dressed or put on their slippers in the morning.

The perimeter of the mattress isn't solid enough for frequent sitting, and you may find that the end of the mattress dips when all your weight is concentrated in that area.

However, the Simba Hybrid fared much better in our edge support test. 👍

Edge support test Simba Hybrid
The Simba Hybrid had much better edge support.

We had various testers sit on the edge of the mattress.

Each tester felt supported when sitting along the very edge of the Simba Hybrid.

The Simba Hybrid includes a new support core base and edge-to-edge springs designed to promote stability around the entire edge of the mattress.

FREE PILLOW - SIMBA HYBRID£ 599

The Simba Hybrid is more breathable

Memory foam is known for retaining heat, leading to a warmer sleep experience. 🥵

However, the Simba Hybrid mattress offers a slight advantage as it includes both Simbatex foam and springs, which allows for better airflow and temperature regulation.

Airflow in pocket spring mattress
Mattresses with pocket springs have better air circulation.

The Simbatex foam in the Simba Hybrid also includes cooling graphite to help regulate body temperature. ❄️

Overall, the Simba Hybrid has the best breathability and would be the better option for hot sleepers.

Our verdict: While both mattresses provide similar support and comfort levels, the Simba Hybrid has better edge support and breathability, making it our overall winner for comfort.

Grab your Simba Hybrid mattress:

Composition: Nectar mattress vs Simba Hybrid

The Nectar and Simba Hybrid have a few key differences in their composition.

Unlike the Simba Hybrid, the Nectar mattress is a full memory foam mattress made up of three layers of foam and a mattress cover.

All the foams in the Nectar mattress are CERTIPUR-certified [1], meaning they've been tested against containing harmful chemicals. 🧪

nectar mattress composition
The Nectar mattress has four layers.

The core of the Nectar mattress combines different types of foams.

The four Nectar layers include:

  • Quilted cooling cover
  • Dynamic support layer
  • Pressure-relieving memory foam layer
  • 7-zone supportive base

One of the main differences between the Nectar and Simba is that the Simba mattress is a hybrid.

As well as CERTIPUR-certified foam, it also includes an additional conical pocket spring layer for more adaptive support.

The five Simba layers include:

  • Washable polyester outer cover
  • Open-cell, graphite-infused Simbatex foam
  • Up to 2000 Aerocoil conical pocket springs
  • Stability layer
  • SupportCore barrel spring base

Both mattresses have unique features and are made from high-quality materials that could make either a great choice.

However, the Simba mattress has the added benefits of graphite-infused foam, pocket springs, and better edge support, which makes it a more advanced design overall. 🧠

FREE PILLOW - SIMBA HYBRID£ 599

Cover: Nectar vs Simba mattress

The Nectar mattress has a moisture-wicking top cover made of a Tencel and cotton mix, with grey mesh sides for better air circulation and a non-slip base to keep it in place.

Nectar mattress cover
The Nectar mattress cover is highly breathable.

The Nectar cover doesn't include handles, but the non-slip base is perfect for lift-up ottoman beds as it prevents the mattress from sliding. 🎿

BUY NECTAR MATTRESS£ 349

The Simba mattress has a sleek design, with a 500g polyester cover that is hypoallergenic and has carrying handles for easy movement.

Both the Nectar and Simba covers are removable, but the Simba has the advantage of the top cover also being fully washable at 40°C.

This makes it a better choice for allergy sufferers who may benefit from a washable cover to remove bacteria and dust mites. 🦠

Our verdict: While we love the materials and non-slip base of the Nectar cover, the Simba cover is slightly more practical with its handles and washable top cover.

Grab your Simba Hybrid below:

Price: Simba vs Nectar mattress

Nectar and Simba mattresses have comparable price points, but Nectar is slightly cheaper. 💰

It's important to note that Simba is also a hybrid mattress, which can be more expensive because of the additional spring layer.

However, Nectar also usually offers better sales.

Piggybank on mattress
Both mattresses have great promotions throughout the year.

Nectar also has a "Forever Warranty", which makes it better value for money when compared to Simba's 10-year guarantee. 🤞

Our verdict: Nectar is much better value for money as it is generally cheaper with bigger sales and a longer guarantee.

Grab your Nectar mattress below:

Size: Nectar vs Simba mattress

The Nectar and Simba Hybrid mattresses are both available in standard UK sizes.

Follow our size guide below:

  • Single mattress: 90 x 190 cm (3' x 6'3")
  • Small double mattress: 120 x 190 cm (4' x 6'3")
  • Double mattress: 135 x 190 cm (4'6" x 6'3")
  • King size mattress: 150 x 200 cm (5’ x 6’6”)
  • Super king mattress: 180 x 200 cm (6’ x 6’6”)

The Simba Hybrid also has some EU sizes available, including an EU single, double and queen. 👑

This might be particularly useful if you have an IKEA bed frame that doesn’t follow the UK standard.

You can select the size you need on the respective product pages:

Delivery & sleep trial: Nectar mattress vs Simba Hybrid

The Simba and Nectar mattresses are vacuum-sealed in a box for fast and fuss-free delivery.

The table below breaks down the basics:

Nectar mattress Simba Hybrid
Delivery: Bed-in-a-box principle Bed-in-a-box principle
Box size: 50 x 50 x 106cm (19.6" x 19.6" x 41.7") 50cm x 50cm x 107cm (19.6" x 19.6" x 42.12")
Delivery time: Within 5 working days Within 3 working days
Delivery cost: Free delivery within mainland UK Free delivery within mainland UK
Old mattress removal: Available for a fee Available for a fee
Trial period: 1-year trial period 200 nights
Returns: Free returns Free returns
Warranty: Lifetime guarantee 10 years

Free delivery

The Nectar and Simba Hybrid will arrive at your front door in a compact box that can fit into any entryway. 📦

Unboxing Simba Hybrid

This makes them convenient for those smaller passageways or loft bedrooms.

The Simba Hybrid has a slightly faster delivery time and will arrive in as little as 3 days.

But Nectar has free named-day delivery, which is a standout feature when compared to other brands.

FREE PILLOW - SIMBA HYBRID£ 599

Nectar has a better sleep trial

Whether you decide between the Nectar or Simba mattress, you can feel rest assured by the fact they both include a sleep trial.

While the Simba Hybrid has an excellent 200-night trial, the Nectar mattress surpasses this with a 365-day trial.

A sleep trial means you can test the mattress for a set amount of time to determine if it's really suitable. ⌛

 Sleep trial period

It typically takes our bodies around 30 days to adjust to a new mattress.

But the longer the trial, the better.

A year-long trial means you can test the mattress in every season and temperature and for any other life changes.

This could be weight gain/loss, pregnancy, injuries, or other conditions (such as joint pain) that worsen in different seasons. ☃️

If you don’t get on with either of these mattresses, you can send them back for a full refund.

Our verdict: While the Simba has a slightly faster delivery time, Nectar's longer trial period makes it the better option.

Grab your Nectar mattress below:

Warranty: Simba vs Nectar mattress

When it comes to mattress guarantees, both Simba and Nectar have a lot of promise.

However, Nectar's "Forever Warranty" offers more coverage. ✅

SHOP NECTAR

The Simba mattress comes with a 10-year guarantee, while the Nectar mattress has an unmatched "Forever Warranty".

For the first 10 years, the Simba and Nectar warranty work the same.

If a fault is found, these brands will replace or repair the mattress for free during the first 10 years of ownership.

After 10 years, Nectar will repair, re-cover, or replace the mattress or cover at their discretion, with a transportation cost of £65 each way.

After 10 years, Simba's mattress warranty expires, and any repairs or replacements needed will be your responsibility, and you'll have to cover the costs.

Our verdict: While 10 years is a great guarantee, the Nectar "Forever Warranty" surpasses what Simba can offer and is unmatched amongst competitors.

To ensure the longest lifespan for your mattress, pair either with a mattress protector.

A mattress protector prevents accidental damage and bacteria build-up over time.

So if you spill a drink on your mattress, you won't have to worry about your warranty becoming void. ☔

Nectar and Simba both offer waterproof mattress protectors:

Accessories: Nectar vs Simba

So, you've decided to buy one of the top mattresses in the UK?

Your journey to a good night's sleep doesn't stop there.

Other sleep accessories, such as pillows and duvets, also significantly affect sleep quality [2].

Nectar and Simba offer a variety of sleep accessories to complement your new mattress. 😍

Simba Hybrid duvet

Nectar adjustable pillow

Check out our reviews for some of their top products to enhance your sleep experience:

We plan to test even more Nectar and Simba products in the future.

Take a look at some of our favourite accessories below:

Advantages and disadvantages of the two mattresses

If you've read through all the different features of the Simba or Nectar mattress, you may be feeling a little overwhelmed.

Here's a breakdown table of everything we've just learned:

Pros and cons of the Nectar mattress:

Nectar mattress
Advantages:

High-quality CERTIPUR-certified foam layers

An excellent option for side and back sleepers

A solid base layer that supports the spine and prevents motion transfer

Adapts to the body for pressure relief

High-quality cover with an anti-slip base for good stability

Free delivery & returns

365-day sleep trial

An unbeatable lifetime guarantee

Disadvantages:

Not the best edge support

The cover is not washable

Not the most breathable choice

BUY NECTAR MATTRESS£ 349

Pros and cons of the Simba Hybrid:

Simba Hybrid mattress
Advantages:

Advanced hybrid structure for maximum adaptability

A comfortable choice for side and back sleepers

Excellent edge support

Moulds around pressure points

Highly breathable design

Machine-washable cover with handles

Free delivery & returns

200-night sleep trial

10-year guarantee

Disadvantages:

The mattress slides a bit, especially on lift-up beds

The mattress may be too soft for some people

FREE PILLOW - SIMBA HYBRID£ 599

Read our in-depth mattress reviews:

What about other mattress comparisons?

The Nectar and Simba Hybrid were the starting point for these brands, but it's not where it ends.

In fact, they both have a huge selection of mattresses that may be more suitable. 🤯

Simba Sleep now has an all-foam Simbatex foam mattress that is more comparable to the Nectar mattress.

For more premium options, you should also look at the Nectar Premier Hybrid against the Simba Hybrid Pro mattress.

Simba Hybrid Pro mattress on bed

And for those on a budget, the Nectar Essential Hybrid and Simba Hybrid Essential are worth considering.

Nectar Hybrid vs Simba Hybrid

The Nectar Hybrid has much more in common with the Simba Hybrid than the Nectar Premier or original mattresses. 🤔

The Simba and Nectar Hybrid include a mini pocket spring layer for flexibility and airflow and CERTIPUR-certified foam for pressure relief on the joints.

The Nectar Hybrid has a top layer of open-cell breathable polyfoam, while the Simba Hybrid is made with open-cell Simbatex foam.

Nectar Hybrid mattress on bed
We tested the Nectar Hybrid for several weeks.

We've tested both of these mattresses and could barely tell the difference between their comfort levels, firmness, and ability to isolate motion.

The 365-day trial period and "Forever Warranty" is one of the main standout features of the Nectar Hybrid.

However, similar to the Nectar mattress, the Nectar Hybrid cover is not machine-washable.

The Simba Hybrid is also slightly cheaper than the Nectar Hybrid, making it a better choice for those on a budget. 💰

FREE PILLOW - SIMBA HYBRID£ 599

Our verdict: Nectar vs Simba

The Nectar and Simba Hybrid are high-quality mattresses that provide undeniable comfort and support.

Choosing one over the other depends on what features you prioritise in a new mattress.

The Nectar mattress is best suited to:

  • Those looking for an all-foam mattress
  • Side and back sleepers
  • Average and heavier weight sleepers
  • Those who prefer a medium-firm mattress
  • Those who feel cold easily
  • Those looking for the longest sleep trials and guarantees
  • Those looking for the best price

BUY NECTAR MATTRESS£ 349

The Simba Hybrid is best suited to:

  • Those looking for a mix of foam and springs
  • Side and back sleepers
  • Light and average-weight sleepers
  • Those who prefer a medium-firm mattress
  • Those who get hot easily
  • People who like to sit or sleep right up to the edge
  • Allergy sufferers who will benefit from a washable cover

FREE PILLOW - SIMBA HYBRID£ 599

Overall, we'd conclude that the Simba Hybrid has the winning composition with its advanced hybrid design for more flexibility and better airflow. 🌬️

However, Nectar offers better peace of mind with a lifetime guarantee and an unmatched 365-night sleep trial.

Take a closer look at both mattresses:

Contact Nectar and Simba Sleep UK

If you need to get in touch with any of these brands, follow the contact details provided below.

Contact Nectar Sleep UK

Customer service: To contact Nectar Sleep UK directly for complaints, support, or queries, please e-mail them at hello@nectarsleep.co.uk, call them on 0808 501 5373, or visit their live online chat [3]. Nectar Support is available seven days a week from 9 am - 5:30 pm.

Registered office: Nectar Sleep, 100 Avebury Boulevard, Milton Keynes MK9 1FH

Contact Simba Sleep UK

Customer service: To contact Simba Sleep directly for complaints, support, or queries, please e-mail them at hello@simbasleep.com or visit their live online chat [4]. The customer services team is available Monday to Friday, from 9 am - 5 pm., and Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm.

Registered office: Simba Sleep, The Stable Yard, 60 Petty France, Westminster, London SW1H 9EU

Frequently asked questions

  • Are Simba and Nectar the same?


    The Nectar and Simba Hybrid mattresses have different designs and integral structures

    While both mattresses include multiple layers, the Nectar mattress is a full memory foam mattress, while the Simba Hybrid includes a combination of springs and Simbatex. 

    The Nectar Hybrid has a much more similar structure to the Simba Hybrid.

  • Is the Simba Pro worth the extra money?


    The Simba Hybrid Pro is an advanced premium mattress that has additional layers and benefits to the Simba Hybrid. 

    You could also consider the Simba Hybrid Luxe for an even more advanced option. 

    Our reviews on these mattresses will guide you through the differences and what makes them worth their high price tag. 

  • What bed is comparable to a Nectar?


    The Nectar mattress is made up of different types of foam that help with pressure relief, support, and overall stability. 

    It’s the most comparable to the following:

    Memory foam mattresses provide excellent support and motion isolation. 

    They’re also great at keeping you cosy and warm at night.

    For a cooler choice, consider hybrid mattresses instead, which combine foam with breathable pocket springs

  • Other Simba and Nectar mattress competitors


    We'll dive into some comparisons of other popular mattress brands below. 

    Nectar vs Emma

    The Emma Original and Nectar mattresses have multiple foam layers to support the spine and mould around pressure points. ☁️

    The Emma Original uses Airgocell foam, viscoelastic memory foam, and HRX polyfoam.

    On the other hand, the Nectar mattress has a dynamic support layer, pressure-relieving memory foam, and a supportive base layer.

    The Emma Original is a softer mattress, making it great for side sleepers, but it may not be suitable for other sleeping positions like the slightly firmer Nectar mattress.

    The Emma Original cover is also fully washable, which gives it a slight advantage.

    Not only that, it's considerably cheaper than the Nectar mattress. 🤑

    Emma offers a 200-night trial and a 10-year guarantee, while Nectar again takes the edge with its "Forever Warranty" and 365-day trial.

    Simba vs Emma

    The Emma Premium is comparable to the Simba Hybrid Pro mattress

    The Simba Hybrid Pro's advantages include its innovative 7-layer construction, while the Emma Premium has 5 layers of foam and springs. 

    Both mattresses exhibit a medium-firm feel, but the Simba may feel slightly firmer due to the extra layers.

    It also outperforms the Emma Premium in heat retention and temperature regulation.

    Nectar vs Eve 

    Both the Nectar and Eve Original share many similarities, including their three-layer foam composition.

    Both Eve and Nectar provide free delivery and returns in the UK and offer sleep trials for extra peace of mind. 

    Nectar and Eve also offer a year-long trial, but the Nectar "Forever Warranty" surpasses Eve's 10-year guarantee. 

  • References

Holly

Holly Matthews

Senior Content Writer

Holly has been a content writer at Sleep Hero UK since 2021. With an MA degree in literature and previous experience working at a leading UK bed retailer, she is committed to using her skills to guide others towards making better sleep choices.

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