Quick answer
Pick the mattress type first, then the firmness. Pocket-sprung mattresses are supportive and stay cool; memory foam contours for pressure relief; hybrids combine both. For firmness, side sleepers usually suit medium to medium-soft, back sleepers medium to medium-firm, and front sleepers firmer support.
Key facts
- Pocket springs are individually wrapped, so they reduce partner disturbance.
- Memory foam relieves pressure but can sleep warmer than springs.
- Hybrids layer foams over pocket springs for support plus comfort.
- The Sleep Charity advises considering a new mattress every seven years.
Which type of mattress is best?
| Type | How it feels | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pocket sprung | Responsive, supportive, cool | Couples, warm sleepers | Less “hug” than foam |
| Memory foam | Slow, contouring, pressure-relieving | Side sleepers, joint pain | Can feel warm; slower to move on |
| Hybrid | Springs underneath, foam on top | Most sleepers wanting balance | Usually a higher price |
| Orthopaedic | Firm and even | Back and front sleepers, heavier sleepers | Can feel hard for side sleepers |
What firmness do I need?
- Side sleepers: medium to medium-soft, so shoulders and hips can sink in and the spine stays straight.
- Back sleepers: medium to medium-firm, to support the lower back.
- Front sleepers: firmer, to stop the hips sinking and arching the back.
- Heavier sleepers: firmer support and a reinforced base; lighter sleepers often prefer softer.
- Couples with different needs: a pocket-sprung or hybrid mattress limits movement transfer.
Does spring count matter?
Up to a point. More, smaller pocket springs spread weight more finely and respond more precisely, so a 2,000-spring mattress feels more even than a 1,000-spring one. Beyond that, the comfort layers matter as much as the count.
Our mattresses
| Mattress | Type | From |
|---|---|---|
| Sleep Therapy | Pillow-top hybrid, 2,000 pocket springs | £379 |
| 2000 Pocket Spring Memory Foam | Pocket sprung + memory foam | £249 |
| 1000 Pocket Spring Memory Foam | Pocket sprung + memory foam | £199 |
| Premium All Foam Reflex | All foam, orthopaedic support | £249 |
| Memory Orthopaedic Sprung | Firm orthopaedic + memory layer | £99 |
The Sleep Therapy mattress (£379–£469) layers a luxury pillow top, 2" reflex comfort foam and 2" wave foam over 2,000 pocket springs with edge-to-edge support. It is handmade in Britain and arrives vacuum-rolled.
When should I replace my mattress?
The Sleep Charity suggests considering a new mattress about every seven years. Replace it sooner if it sags, you can feel springs, you wake up stiff, or you sleep better away from home.
How do I set up a rolled mattress?
- Place the box on the bed and slide the rolled mattress out.
- Cut the outer bag with scissors — never a knife — taking care not to cut the mattress.
- Unroll it onto the bed, then cut and remove the inner vacuum bag.
- Allow 24 hours for the mattress to expand fully before sleeping on it.
Explore the Sleep Therapy mattress
FAQ
Questions people also ask
Is pocket sprung or memory foam better?
Pocket sprung is better if you sleep warm or share the bed; memory foam is better for pressure relief, especially for side sleepers. A hybrid gives you both.
What mattress firmness is best for back pain?
Most people with back pain do best on medium-firm support that keeps the spine aligned. A mattress that is too hard or too soft can make pain worse.
How long does a mattress last?
Around seven to ten years, depending on quality and use. The Sleep Charity suggests reviewing your mattress every seven years.
Can I sleep on a rolled mattress straight away?
You can, but it is best to wait 24 hours so it expands fully and any packaging odour airs out.
What size mattress do I need?
The same UK size as your bed — for example a king mattress (150 × 200 cm) for a king bed. See our UK bed size guide.
