Choosing the right mattress can significantly affect your sleep quality and overall well-being. With the UK mattress market offering such a diverse range of options, knowing where to begin your search can be overwhelming. This post will guide you through the different types of mattresses available, the materials they use, and how they suit various sleeping styles, to help you find the perfect mattress.

Mattress Materials 

Before we look at the different types of mattresses, let's first understand the materials that go into their construction. Each material has unique properties that contribute to the overall comfort and support of the mattress.

Comfort Layers

Memory Foam: This viscoelastic material reacts to body heat and pressure, moulding your body's contours for excellent pressure relief and support. While traditional memory foam could sometimes retain heat, newer formulations often incorporate cooling technologies to address this issue. 

Latex: Natural or synthetic latex provides a responsive and buoyant feel, offering a gentle "push-back" sensation. It is known for its excellent breathability, durability, and natural resistance to dust mites and mould. 

Natural Fillings: Materials like wool, cotton, and bamboo are often used in natural mattresses to enhance comfort and temperature regulation. Wool is particularly effective at wicking away moisture and regulating temperature, keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. 

Support Layers

Pocket Springs: Pocket spring mattresses have individually encased springs for targeted support and minimize motion transfer. Each spring moves independently, conforming to your body's shape and providing personalized support. This also makes them ideal for couples, as movement on one side of the bed is less likely to disturb the other. 

Open Springs/Coil Springs: These interconnected springs provide a more traditional feel and are generally a more affordable option. However, they offer less targeted support and motion isolation compared to pocket springs.  

Cooling Technologies

Gel: Gel infusions are often incorporated into memory foam or latex layers to enhance cooling and regulate temperature. Gel absorbs and dissipates heat, helping to create a cooler sleeping surface. 

Now that we've explored the key materials, let's look at the different types of mattresses available in the UK:

Memory Foam Mattresses

Known for their body-contouring properties, memory foam mattresses provide excellent pressure relief and support. They are particularly well-suited for side sleepers, as they cushion the shoulders and hips, promoting proper spinal alignment. Firmer memory foam mattresses can also be an option for stomach sleepers, but softer ones are generally not recommended. 

Pocket Sprung Mattresses

Pocket-sprung mattresses feature individually pocketed springs that move independently, offering good support, motion isolation, and breathability. They are an excellent choice for back sleepers, as they provide consistent support for the spine and maintain natural alignment. The open structure of the springs also promotes airflow, making them a good option for hot sleepers. Pocket sprung mattresses are also ideal for couples, as the independent movement of the springs minimizes motion transfer, reducing disturbances from a partner's movements. It's worth noting that pocket-sprung mattresses may sag over time, but regular turning can help mitigate this. Higher-quality pocket-sprung mattresses also tend to be less noisy. 

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses combine the benefits of memory foam or latex with the support of pocket springs. This provides a balance of comfort, support, and pressure relief, making them a popular choice for a wide range of sleepers. They are particularly suitable for couples, heavy individuals, and hot sleepers due to their motion isolation, support, and cooling features. 

Gel Mattresses

Gel-infused mattresses are designed to regulate temperature and provide a cooler sleeping surface. They are a good choice for people who tend to sleep hot or experience night sweats. 

Adjustable Mattresses

Adjustable mattresses allow you to customize the head and foot of the bed to find the most comfortable sleeping position. This can be beneficial for people with back pain, circulation problems, or those who simply prefer to sleep in an elevated position. 

Natural Mattresses

Natural mattresses are made with natural materials like wool, cotton, and latex. They are often hypoallergenic and environmentally friendly, making them a viable choice for people with allergies or those seeking a more sustainable option.

Rolled Mattresses

Rolled mattresses are compressed and vacuum-packed for easy transportation. They are available in various materials and comfort levels, making them a convenient option for those who need a mattress delivered or have limited storage space. 

Traditional Spring Mattresses

Also known as open coil mattresses, these are the most affordable option, with interconnected springs for basic support. However, they generally offer less targeted support and motion isolation compared to pocket-sprung mattresses. 

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses are made from natural or synthetic latex and offer excellent support, breathability, and durability. They are known for their responsive and buoyant feel, which can be particularly beneficial for people who change positions frequently during the night. 

Mattress Firmness

Mattresses are available in a range of firmness levels, from soft to extra firm. The right firmness for you depends on your sleeping style, body weight, and personal preferences.

Soft: Best for lightweight side sleepers who need extra cushioning for their shoulders and hips.

Medium Soft: Suitable for side sleepers and those who prefer a more cradling sensation.

Medium: A good all-rounder option for back sleepers and those who like a balance of comfort and support.

Medium Firm: Often preferred by back sleepers and those who need extra support for their spine.

Firm: Suitable for stomach sleepers and those who prefer a more supportive feel.

Extra Firm: Best for heavier individuals and those who need maximum support.

Mattress Sizes

Mattresses are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate different bed frames and sleeping arrangements :  

Small Single: Suitable for children or individuals with limited space.

Single: The standard size for a single person.

Small Double: A good option for individuals who want extra space or couples in smaller rooms.

Double: The standard size for couples.

King: Offers ample space for couples who like to spread out.

Super King: Provides maximum space for couples or families who co-sleep.

Different mattress types may be more suitable for certain bed frames:  

Traditional Spring Mattresses: Generally compatible with most bed frames, including those with slats.

Memory Foam and Latex Mattresses: Often require a solid base or platform bed for optimal support.

Pocket Sprung Mattresses: Can be used with most bed frames, but slatted bases should have gaps no wider than 7.5cm to prevent the springs from pushing through.

Rolled Mattresses: These can be used with any bed frame once they have fully expanded.

While personal preference plays a significant role, certain mattress types generally suit different sleeping positions better :  

Side Sleepers: Memory foam and latex mattresses are often recommended for side sleepers as they provide pressure relief for the hips and shoulders, promoting proper spinal alignment.

Back Sleepers: Pocket-sprung or hybrid mattresses with medium firmness offer good support for the spine and maintain natural alignment.

Stomach Sleepers: Firmer mattresses, like those with a strong pocket sprung base or latex, prevent the hips from sinking too deeply and maintain a straight spine.

Customer reviews offer valuable insights into the real-life experiences of people using different mattress types. Here's a summary of what customers have to say:

Memory Foam

• Generally praised for comfort and pressure relief.
• Some concerns about heat retention, but newer models often address this issue with cooling technologies.
• It can have a slight initial odour, but this usually dissipates quickly. 
  

Pocket Sprung

• Highly regarded for support, breathability, and motion isolation.
• Natural fillings like wool are appreciated for added comfort and temperature regulation.
• It can be a good option for those with back pain.

Hybrid

• Offer a good balance of comfort and support.
• Temperature regulation is generally good.
• Some variations in firmness levels across different brands and models.

Natural

• Appreciated for their use of natural and sustainable materials.
• Offer a range of firmness options to suit different preferences.
• Some natural mattresses, particularly those with wool fillings, can have a distinct odour initially.