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13 best mattresses to buy, tried and tested for every sleep style

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Good Housekeeping

We spend about a third of our lives in bed and enjoying a good night’s sleep is crucial to our physical health and mental wellbeing. But, the reality is, no one's getting enough. That’s why buying the best mattress is one of the most important purchases you will make.

But it’s not always easy knowing where to start, or which type of mattress – memory foam, pocket sprung or both – will give you the most comfortable, high-quality sleep. Thankfully, the Good Housekeeping Institute experts (and reader panel) are here to help you invest in a mattress that's genuinely worth it.

Best mattresses for 2026

To keep things affordable for most shoppers, all the mattresses in this round-up are under £1,200. If your budget stretches and you'd like to invest in a premium design, take a look at our best luxury mattresses round-up, which features some of our highest scorers in the premium category.

But if you're looking for the best value buys for your bedroom, these are the ones our experts and panellists loved.

how we test mattresses

How we test mattresses

At the Good Housekeeping Institute, our mattress testing process is extremely rigorous. We enlist a panel of testers to sleep on each mattress in their homes for at least six weeks, allowing them to adjust properly to the design. After the trial, we get them to answer lots of questions covering the following...

  • how good the delivery and customer service is
  • whether the mattress has that 'new' smell on arrival
  • how comfortable the mattress is to sleep on
  • whether it suits their sleep style
  • how breathable the mattress is
  • whether it offers enough support to the hips and shoulders
  • whether any dips formed over time

...among other important factors.

To understand how each mattress performs in the long term, we also turn to our extensive reader panel. Nearly 4,000 readers, who had owned their mattress for at least six months, shared their experiences with us, giving us valuable insights into how the mattresses hold up over time.

Finally, we bring all the feedback together and each mattress is awarded an overall score which reflects comfort, performance, durability and long-term satisfaction.

Here are our top picks.

Best overall

Emma Original Pro Mattress

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Original Pro Mattress
Best overall

Emma Original Pro Mattress

Pros

  • Uses memory foam that’s designed to regulate body temperature
  • Testers found it comfortable and liked the way it cushioned their bodies
  • Remains quiet and still even with movement

Cons

  • Smelt on arrival (although it disappeared within a couple of days)
  • May take some adjusting to if you’re new to the firmness level or design

Score: 92/100

What we like:

Emma has been top on our list of mattress recommendations for years thanks to its popular memory foam designs (see our full Emma mattress review) , and this iteration lived up to our expectations on test. There are four different layers of foam, plus pocket springs that are split into seven different zones to provide tailored support from head to toe.

Our testers praised its comfortable and supportive cushioning, noting that it was quiet and still when they moved around. Everyone said they slept like a dream, and all planned to keep using the mattress after the testing period.

Plus, it comes in a box for ultimate ease (find out more about the best mattresses in a box in our dedicated review). Panellists loved the way it arrived and told us it was simple to unroll and set up.

This was a real winner for both back and side sleepers too. “I really love this mattress; it was instantly comfortable, and I've had such a good night’s sleep ever since,’ one tester told us.

Things to consider:

Upon delivery, some found it heavy to move and get into place. Once on the bed, panellists said it has a firmer feel and took some time to get used to it, so if you like a soft, sink-in bed then it’s probably not quite right. Most felt that it regulated their body temperatures well, but one hot sleeper didn’t notice a difference either way.

Who we’d recommend it for:

Our overall best mattress suits side sleepers who want cushioning round the hips and shoulders. Those who prefer a soft mattress may find this too firm – something with a pillow-top design like the Feather & Black Winwood Mattress may work better.

We’ve also tested the Emma Refurbished Original Pro Mattress, which scored 83/100. Emma’s refurbished line reuses premium materials, extending their life instead of sending them straight to landfill. Our panel loved the mattress and said it helped them get a good night’s sleep; however, they did notice a dip forming in the mattress by the end of the trial period. Regular rotation every couple of months will help with this.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double, king, super king, EU sizes
CompositionFoam and spring
FirmnessMedium
Depth27cm
CareRotate, washable cover
Free trial200 nights
Guarantee10 years
Old mattress removalNo
Best for couples

Emma Original Elite Mattress

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Original Elite Mattress
Best for couples

Emma Original Elite Mattress

Pros

  • High-quality, durable design and premium build
  • All testers slept well and would continue using the mattress
  • Two testers said it helped alleviate aches and pains

Cons

  • A little heavy to move and rotate
  • Some testers felt hot at night

Score: 90/100

What we like:

This innovative design, again from Emma, combines AirGrid technology (featuring cooling gel material and large channels to maximise air flow) and a 7-zone Infinity Spring base to provide top-notch temperature regulation, pressure relief and superior support. It has a medium firmness level and is designed to adapt to the shape of your body, making it suitable for all sleeping positions.

Sure enough, it proved popular with our panel, with everyone agreeing it provided a good night’s sleep and saying they would recommend it to friends and family. It scored highly for support, with testers describing it as “incredibly comfortable” and some even saying it helped alleviate their aches and pains.

The supportive design prevents motion transfer, with one tester noting they didn’t get disturbed by their partner moving around. The edge-to-edge design means you don’t need to worry about that dreaded roll-off sensation, either.

Things to consider:

While most thought it was breathable, a couple of panellists said they felt a bit hot at night. Some found it quite heavy to move and rotate too.

Who we’d recommend it for:

This hybrid mattress is equal parts supportive and comfortable with stellar motion control and edge support, making it a better pick than the Emma Original Pro if you toss and turn at night (or your partner does). Those who tend to run hot may not find it cooling enough, so we recommend the mattress above if you’re after an Emma design specifically, or the Luff Sleep The Prestige Mattress, which scored highly with our hot sleepers.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, double, king, super king, EU sizes
CompositionFoam and spring
FirmnessMedium
Depth27cm
CareRotate, washable cover
Free trial200 nights
Guarantee200 nights
Old mattress removalNo
Best mattress for sustainability credentials

Origin Hybrid Pro Mattress

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Hybrid Pro Mattress
Best mattress for sustainability credentials

Origin Hybrid Pro Mattress

Now 25% Off

Pros

  • Quiet and supportive to lie on
  • Breathable
  • Good sustainability credentials

Cons

  • Took a while for some to adjust to
  • Not the firmest design

Score: 90/100

What we like:

A relatively new player in the mattress market, we were intrigued to see how the Origin Hybrid performed. There's a lot that goes into this mattress, including pocket springs and foam, as well as a layer of latex and another of wool (both help with temperature regulation). It's then all wrapped up in a cooling Tencel cover.

Our panel found it extremely comfortable, enjoying the support provided. The cooling components impressed too, with testers saying they helped to regulate body temperature; we even received some reports of people sweating less at night.

This was also very quiet at night, so it’s ideal if you or your partner tend to toss and turn a lot. Reassuringly, nearly all the readers we surveyed said they were happy with the comfort of their Origin mattress over time too.

Things to consider:

A couple of panellists found the mattress took some getting used to and it wasn’t firm enough for everyone’s taste. There’s no removable cover either, so we recommend investing in a mattress protector to keep it in top condition.

It arrives in a compact box, but note that it doesn’t have handles, so we’d advise opening it in the room you’re going to use it in.

Who we’d recommend it for:

This is another great option for couples and restless sleepers, and we’d also recommend this if you’re looking for a mattress with good sustainability credentials. Origin has a raft of initiatives, including certifications guaranteeing the absence of harmful substances in its products and a circular partnership with the British Heart Foundation that means all returned mattresses are donated.

Note, we also tested the Origin LumbarCloud™ Mattress, which scored 87/100 in our tests.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double, king, super king
CompositionFoam, springs, latex, tencel wool
FirmnessMedium firm
Depth30cm
CareNo rotation
Free trial200 days
Guarantee15 years
Old mattress removalNo
Best for back pain

DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Hybrid Mattress
Best for back pain

DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress

Pros

  • Comfortable and supportive, even for those with back pain
  • All testers would continue using the mattress and recommend it to others
  • Lengthy trial period

Cons

  • Heavy
  • Instruction manual could be more detailed

Score: 90/100

What we like:

Another hybrid design, this mattress from DreamCloud features ‘Dream Plush’ memory foam and reinforced-edge pocket springs. According to the brand, it provides the perfect balance of comfort and support for all sleep styles.

Testers confirmed it was nice and firm, without feeling too hard or unforgiving. It also ticked the box in terms of comfort, moulding to panel members’ bodies nicely without an overly-soft, sink-in sensation. It was fairly quiet and performed extremely well in terms of motion isolation, successfully limiting any movement caused by tossing and turning. “My partner’s movements didn’t disturb me at all,” said one satisfied tester.

The mattress fitted our panellists' bed frames well and they were also able to use standard sheets without any issues. They raved about the “premium build” and “luxurious” design, too. The best part? The brand offers a 365-night home trial (the longest in this round-up) and the mattress comes with a ‘forever warranty’ for total peace of mind when investing.

Things to consider:

Some found it landed on the firmer side, but panellists adjusted to the feel quite quickly. It’s quite heavy too, so you’ll need a second pair of hands when you need to turn it.

Who we’d recommend it for:

Offering gentle support and pressure relief, this is a reliable pick for side and back sleepers, particularly for those who suffer with back pain. Thanks to its impressive motion isolation, this hybrid mattress is also worth considering if you share your bed with a fidgety partner or a pet. It might not suit you if you like a soft mattress though.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, double, king, super king
CompositionMemory foam, pocket spring
FirmnessMedium
Depth35.5cm
CareRotate, use a protector
Free trial365 nights
Guarantee10 years
Old mattress removalYes, for £45
Best value mattress

REM-Fit Hybrid Pocket 1000 Mattress

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Hybrid Pocket 1000 Mattress
Best value mattress

REM-Fit Hybrid Pocket 1000 Mattress

Pros

  • Removable, washable cover good for maintenance
  • Breathable for all our testers
  • Well-made and supportive
  • Mattress in a box design was good for moving it into place and unpacking was straightforward

Cons

  • May need a few days to adjust to firmness level

Score: 89/100

What we like:

As its name suggests, there are 1,000 pocket springs in this mattress, surrounded by open cell foam. And yes, that’s as inviting as it sounds. Our testers raved about the design and the support it offered. One told us it helped to ease their back pain, and another said it was “the most comfortable mattress” they’ve ever slept on thanks to its good weight distribution and snug finish.

It absorbed movement of partners, was temperature regulating and most didn’t notice a smell when it arrived. In fact, everyone said they slept well when trialling it.

Things to consider:

Some readers did say their REM FIT mattress changed over time, so be careful to follow rotation guidance, but this didn’t put any of them off the mattress; almost every person we surveyed about the brand was happy with their mattress, and most would buy it again too.

Who we’d recommend it for:

This firmer hybrid mattress is good value and offered plenty of comfort and support for front and back sleepers in our testing (no mean feat!). If easy maintenance is a priority, this mattress also comes with a removable, machine washable cover. Side sleepers might not find it cushioning enough, though, as one panellist told us it lacked padding around the shoulders and hips.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, double, king, super king
CompositionSpring and foam
FirmnessMedium firm
Depth20cm
CareRotate, washable cover
Free trial100 nights
Guarantee15 years
Old mattress removalYes – for a fee

Dormeo Octasmart Hybrid Plus Pocket Sprung Mattress

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Octasmart Hybrid Plus Pocket Sprung Mattress

Dormeo Octasmart Hybrid Plus Pocket Sprung Mattress

Pros

  • All panellists would recommend this mattress to a friend
  • Not too heavy
  • High-quality feel

Cons

  • Has a ‘new’ mattress smell that took a few days to dissipate

Score: 89/100

What we like:

This mattress uses Dormeo’s Octaspring technology – a layer of honeycomb-shaped springs that adapt to the contours of your body for a luxurious night’s sleep. All our panellists loved this design, with one noting that it made “a noticeable difference” to their sleep. The combination of springs and memory foam helped distribute weight evenly, relieving pressure in all the right places.

Things to consider:

There wasn’t much our panel didn’t like about this mattress; however, they did notice a ‘new’ smell when they opened it, which took a couple of nights to fully disappear. One person told us it wasn’t the best for regulating body temperature either so you may want to choose another option if you’re a particularly hot sleeper.

Who we’d recommend it for:

If you want a mattress with bounce but still like cushioning around the hips and shoulders, this is an excellent choice. It’s a good all-round, medium-feel mattress that suits side, back and combination sleepers.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, double, king, super king
CompositionSpring and foam
FirmnessMedium
Depth22cm
CareRotate regularly
Free trialNone
Guarantee18 years
Old mattress removalNo
Best for side sleepers

Simba Hybrid Mattress

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Hybrid Mattress
Best for side sleepers

Simba Hybrid Mattress

Pros

  • Simba is a B Corp, which means it has excellent sustainability claims
  • Supportive combination of spring and foam means delivers a nice cushioned feel
  • Mattress in a box design was popular with testers who found it quick to unbox and take shape

Cons

  • Some of our readers noticed that dips formed, so be sure to follow care guidance closely

Score: 89/100

What we like:

This is an outstanding hybrid mattress from the experts at Simba. Our testers found it a supportive bedroom addition with just the right amount of sink-in comfort. For most, it regulated their temperature at night well and was dreamily quiet, too.

In fact, one panellist left us with this glowing review: “I see why they call it Simba, because it leaves you feeling like a lying King.”

The brand also has some stand-out eco credentials, should that be a priority in your search. Simba is a B Corp, all its mattresses are made in the UK from recyclable materials, and it commits to carbon-neutral delivery, offsetting through donations to environmental causes.

Things to consider:

Some of our panellists and readers said dips formed in the mattress over time, although most found this didn’t impact comfort levels or their overall satisfaction, with many confirming they’d turn to Simba again. Regular rotation (but not flipping) would also help alleviate this.

Who we’d recommend it for:

Overall, this is a reliable mattress that should suit side sleepers, thanks to the supportive design. However, if you think you’ll struggle to regularly rotate your mattress, it may not suit, as a few testers said dips formed after a while.

Check out our full Simba mattress review for more detail.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, EU single, small double, double, EU double, EU queen, king, super king
CompositionFoam and spring
FirmnessMedium firm
Depth25cm
CareNon-flip, rotate once a month to begin with and then every 3 to 6 months, washable cover
Free trial200 nights
Guarantee10 years
Old mattress removalYes, for £40
Best budget

MAX Hybrid Mattress

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Hybrid Mattress
Best budget

MAX Hybrid Mattress

Now 30% Off

Pros

  • Easy to move into place
  • Testers found it comfortable and slept well

Cons

  • Some found the mattress moved when they or a partner did

Score: 89/100

Max is a relatively new mattress brand to the UK, so this score isn’t adjusted to include feedback from readers on how the mattress stands up over time. We will follow up with our reader panel and update the score accordingly later. For added peace of mind, however, it comes with a 100-night trial and a 10-year warranty.

What we like:

This is another hybrid mattress, and it boasts 2000 pocket springs. One tester said it “feels like heaven” and most found it comfortable and breathable. Everyone said they’d recommend this mattress and generally liked the height, which wasn’t too shallow or too deep.

Things to consider:

It’s relatively firm, which wasn’t quite right for everyone and some also noted that it took a while for the mattress to take its shape once it was unpacked. But testers were generally impressed with how well the foam bounced back come morning.

Who we’d recommend it for:

This mattress is firm and supportive, so it should suit most people, although several testers found it too hard, with one person suggesting they’d add a mattress topper. So, if you’d like a more cushioned design, opt for one of the others on our list.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double, king
CompositionFoam and spring
FirmnessMedium firm
Depth25cm
CareWashable cover, rotate
Free trial100 nights
Guarantee10 years
Old mattress removalYes – for a fee
Best for hot sleepers

Luff Sleep The Prestige Hybrid Bamboo Mattress

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
The Prestige Hybrid Bamboo Mattress
Best for hot sleepers

Luff Sleep The Prestige Hybrid Bamboo Mattress

Now 15% Off

Pros

  • Feels well made, with durable, high-quality materials
  • Minimises movement well, making it a good choice for couples
  • Testers praised its balance of support and comfort

Cons

  • Some noticed a slight smell on arrival, although this faded
  • Heavy design means it can be tricky to move or rotate

Score: 88/100

What we like:

Handmade in the UK, this mattress combines 2,000 pocket springs with a layer of CloudTec® foam for optimal support, while the bamboo-blend cover helps keep things breathable. And multiple testers told us they liked everything about the design.

Panellists praised its temperature-regulating capabilities, saying they didn't overheat and found the perfect Goldilocks temperature. They also found it comfortable, noting the strong motion isolation – ideal if you share a bed – and pressure-relieving benefits. Some even reported a reduction in back discomfort over the testing period.

Everyone was impressed with the “luxurious” design and overall build quality, and all said they’d recommend the mattress to a friend.

Things to consider:

Panellists reported that the delivery wasn’t totally smooth as the team didn’t help carry the mattress upstairs. Some found the new mattress smell lingered for a bit too.

Who we’d recommend it for:

Hot sleepers will love this mattress as it kept our panellists cool and comfortable. It’s also a good option if you sleep with a partner, as you’re less likely to be disturbed by their movements. Those who live alone may want to pick something else though, as it’s heavy to move and the delivery team didn’t help get it in position.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double, king, super king
CompositionPocket springs, memory foam
FirmnessMedium, firm, extra firm
Depth26cm
CareRotate regularly
Free trial200 nights
Guarantee10-year warranty
Old mattress removalYes, at an extra fee
Best for teens

Slumberland Flip 2 in 1 Mattress

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Flip 2 in 1 Mattress
Best for teens

Slumberland Flip 2 in 1 Mattress

Pros

  • Innovative design provides two mattresses in one
  • Good comfort and support levels for most

Cons

  • The soft side is soft, so check the recommended ages and weights before you buy to maximise mattress lifespan

Score: 88/100

What we like:

Finding the right mattress for growing bodies is no easy feat, which is why Slumberland developed this double-sided design. One side of the pocket spring mattress is soft for younger people, and the other firm. That way your teenager can swap it round as their preferences and needs change with age.

So, what did our panel of young adults think? Well, they were happy sleepers, with most finding it just right. It regulated everyone’s body temperatures, and most said they’d recommend it to friends and family. In fact, some said there was “nothing to dislike”, praising the support and quality.

Things to consider:

The parents we spoke to praised it too but noted that it’s not that lightweight when the time did come to turn it. Luckily, that’s not something you’ll be doing often.

Who we’d recommend it for:

Little surprise here, but this one is a great buy if you’re a parent of a teenager looking for a good investment. It’s not cheap, but if you consider the price of buying two mattresses, it would work out at a similar cost, if not better. And of course it saves you the extra effort of replacing their mattress as they grow.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double
CompositionSpring with foam comfort layer
FirmnessSoft and medium firm
Depth28cm
CareUnspecified
Free trialNone
Guarantee8 years
Old mattress removalYes

OTTY Original Hybrid Mattress

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Original Hybrid Mattress

OTTY Original Hybrid Mattress

Pros

  • Suitable for a range of sleep styles
  • Minimal motion transfer, ideal for couples
  • Testers praised the durable, high-quality build

Cons

  • Heavy and difficult to move
  • Can feel slightly warm initially

Score: 83/100

What we like:

A combination of around 2,000 pocket springs and memory foam gives this mattress a supportive yet cushioned feel that our testers loved. It sits in the medium-firm range but doesn’t feel overly rigid, with several saying it strikes a good balance between comfort and support. It also suits a range of sleep styles, with one tester describing it as the most comfortable mattress they'd ever slept on.

Panellists rated the overall quality and ease of delivery, noting that it arrived well packaged and was quick to set up. They were also impressed by the finish, praising the strong stitching and durable fabric, which gave it a premium feel for the price.

Panellists experienced minimal motion transfer and it's a quiet design, making it a reliable choice if you share a bed.

Things to consider:

A few found it was slightly warm during the first few nights, and its depth and weight make it cumbersome to move, particularly without help.

Who we’d recommend it for:

This is a good option for side, back, and combination sleepers who like a medium firm mattress. It may not be quite right for hot sleepers though, as our panel was divided on how effectively it regulates temperature.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double, king, super king
CompositionPocket springs
FirmnessMedium firm
Depth25cm
CareRotate regularly
Free trial100 nights
Guarantee10 years
Old mattress removalYes, for a fee

Feather & Black Winwood Mattress

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Winwood Mattress

Feather & Black Winwood Mattress

Pros

  • Sink-in pillow-top surface
  • No ‘new’ smell
  • Good customer service and delivery 

Cons

  • Heavy – needs two people to rotate
  • Mixed opinions on temperature regulation

Score: 81/100

What we like:

Made to order in the UK with British wool, this mattress boasts 5000 individually wrapped pocket springs, layers of temperature-regulating wool and a traditional tufted finish with a soft-touch sleep surface.

Panellists liked the “super soft pillowy topper” and said the mattress had the look and feel of a high-quality product. The medium-firm design offered plenty of support with almost all panellists agreeing that the mattress suits a wide range of sleeping positions. No dips formed in the testing process either.

Things to consider:

Despite the breathable wool, there were mixed opinions on how effective the mattress was at regulating body temperature. One noted the mattress was also too small for a double bed frame, falling short on the length which meant their bed sheets didn’t fit quite right.

Who’d we recommend it for:

This mattress would suit combination sleepers or those who like a softer pillow-top with firmer, supportive layers underneath. If you’re a particularly hot sleeper, you may be better off with Luff Sleep’s The Prestige Mattress, which ranked higher for temperature regulation.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double, king, super king
CompositionPocket springs
FirmnessMedium firm
Depth22cm
CareRotate regularly
Free trial100 nights
GuaranteeUnspecified
Old mattress removalYes, for a fee
Best value memory foam mattress

Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Classic Memory Foam Mattress
Best value memory foam mattress

Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress

Pros

  • Testers said it was more breathable than other foam mattresses they had tried
  • Good pressure relief and support
  • ‘Forever warranty’ for long-term peace of mind

Cons

  • May require a short adjustment period as your body gets used to the feel
  • Comfort levels can differ based on body type and sleep style

Score: 75/100

What we like:

If you’re after a memory foam mattress for contouring support and enhanced pressure relief, call off the search – this popular option from Nectar delivers on both fronts.

It combines multiple foam layers with a supportive seven-zone base that provides targeted support across the body. On top, the cooling cover is designed to enhance airflow while breathable comfort layers help reduce heat build-up. The mattress comes in a box, making it easy to get upstairs and practical features like side handles help when positioning it on the bed.

Testers liked the pressure relief it offered, as well as the way the foam moulded to their bodies, helping to cushion their joints and keeping them well supported. This design also scored highly for motion isolation – with minimal disturbances from the other side of the bed during the night – and despite being foam, it performed well for temperature regulation.

Things to consider:

Note, panellists were split on comfort – some found it softer than expected, while others thought it was too firm at first. Thankfully, the 365-night sleep trial gives you time to decide if it’s right for you.

Who we’d recommend it for:

A great value choice if you’re specifically looking for a memory foam mattress, offering the material’s signature body-contouring support and minimal motion transfer. It’s suited to couples, as well as anyone who wants the feel of foam without overheating.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double, king, super king
CompositionMemory foam
FirmnessMedium-firm
Depth25cm
CareRotate regularly, use a protector
Free trial365 nights
GuaranteeLifetime
Old mattress removalYes, at an extra fee

Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute

This is an image

Choosing the right mattress is a big investment, and most buyer regret comes from trusting bold marketing claims rather than how a mattress actually performs after weeks of real sleep. That’s why our best mattress guide is built on days of in-lab testing, months of real-life use and thousands (yes, really!) of at-home tester verdicts.

Our senior sleep and wellness tester, Kim Hawley, oversees the entire testing process, collating and analysing the feedback we get, and scoring each mattress according to our rigorous protocols. All our top-rated models are assessed fairly and honestly – in our reviews, we detail who they won’t suit as well as who they will, because no mattress is right for everyone.

Priyankaa Joshi, our sleep and wellness editor, takes the feedback and turns it into the practical, easy-to-understand reviews you read here. She's always looking out for the latest and best products and brands to trial to keep this list up to date and bring you the top deals and most exciting innovations.

Priyankaa looks after all our sleep product guides, so knows what really makes a difference to your night— and what’s just marketing noise.

best mattresses
Good Housekeeping

How do I choose a mattress?

Here are the key factors to consider in your search for the perfect mattress.

Size

Firstly, let’s talk about size. “We encourage choosing the largest size you can afford and that fits in your space,” says Philippa Warford from the charity Bed Advice. “A bigger bed can reduce the chances of partner disturbance, and being closer together can create a warmer sleeping environment, which may also affect sleep quality.”

Firmness

The big question: which firmness level is right for you? Soft mattresses aren’t always the most comfortable and firm mattresses aren’t necessarily the most supportive.

Therefore, “it's essential to test mattresses of varying firmness levels to determine which one suits you best,” says Warford.

In theory, the best mattress for you is the one that keeps your head, neck, shoulders and back in as straight a line as possible, as if you were standing with good posture. Warford says you should also be able to change position easily.

Sleep style

Your sleep style plays a big role in your decision, so here is a handy breakdown of what you can consider when deciding which level of firmness and filling you need.

Side sleepers: Look for soft to medium firmness. Your hips and shoulders should sink lightly into your mattress to avoid putting too much pressure on your joints. Try a memory foam or hybrid mattress that moulds to the shape of your body and combines both softness and support.

Back sleepers: Opt for a mattress with medium firmness, made from either pocket springs or memory foam.

There's a quick test you can try to see if your chosen design is supportive enough; lie on the mattress with a pillow behind your head and try to place a hand flat between the mattress and your lower back. If you can slide it in easily then the mattress is probably too hard, but if there's no room for your hand, it's likely too soft. With the ideal mattress, it should be tricky to fit your hand between your back and the bed, but not impossible.

Front sleepers: Choose a firm mattress. You want your body to be as close to the bed as possible, with minimal gapping. Consider a pocket spring or hybrid mattress (the memory foam will protect your hips).

Combination sleepers: Opt for medium firmness to best support your various positions as you move around throughout the night.

Sleep concerns

Alongside your sleep style, it's important to consider any specific needs you may have. For instance, if you're a hot sleeper then it's a good idea to pick a mattress with cooling properties – like a gel-infused foam or breathable cotton cover – to keep you at a comfortable temperature overnight.

Alternatively if you have back issues, you want a medium level of firmness to provide sufficient comfort and support, while encouraging good spinal alignment. Consider memory foam for pressure relief, too.

Allergy sufferers may benefit from hypoallergenic materials – including natural latex, treated synthetic fibres and bamboo – that resist dust mites and allergens.

Construction

Here are some additional construction features to consider when shopping, which can have a major impact on comfort and durability:

Motion isolation: If you or your sleeping partner moves around during the night, a mattress that limits motion transfer can help you both sleep better. Foam mattresses tend to absorb movement better than traditional pocket sprung designs.

Mattress height: Taller mattresses (around 35cm or more) usually contain more layers and can feel more luxurious to lie on, while slimmer designs (around 25cm) are often more affordable, easier to manoeuvre and better for those with mobility issues.

Edge support: Good edge support helps the mattress hold its shape and makes getting in and out of bed easier. Budget designs and foam mattresses that arrive rolled in a box typically offer less support around the perimeter.


What are the different types of mattresses?

Memory foam mattresses

Memory foam mattresses are good for allergy sufferers as they're hypoallergenic. They're also often recommended by chiropractors for back pain. Memory foam's main downside is its lack of breathability, which means you may find yourself getting sweaty in summer. It may also feel slightly claustrophobic when you move to turn over. See our full round-up of the best memory foam mattresses.

Hybrid mattresses

Hybrid mattresses have bouncy inner springs and a top layer of memory foam. Some also feature a cooling gel that absorbs and releases your body heat to help regulate your temperature. If you've ever wondered what mattresses hotels use, they're often hybrids. They’re an increasingly popular choice, and you’ll find many of the mattresses in this article are hybrid. Here's our full list of the best hybrid mattresses for more information.

Pocket sprung mattresses

Pocket sprung mattresses (we've found the best pocket sprung mattresses you can buy) feature springs enclosed in individual pockets often filled with natural materials such as wool, cotton, sisal or hair. Each pocket responds independently to the pressure of your body, making you less likely to roll into the centre of the bed or disturb your partner with your movements.

Open spring mattresses

Open spring mattresses are a cheaper variation, but not recommended for two people of vastly differing weights. Your other option to add comfort is to layer a mattress topper over the top. These come in a range of materials, from luxurious goose feather and down to siliconised polyester or quilted cotton-rich fibres.


How often should you replace your mattress?

As a rule of thumb, you should consider replacing your mattress between seven and 10 years after buying it. "If it's no longer comfortable or as supportive to sleep on as it once was, then it’s probably time to replace it,” says Warford.

“The lifespan of a mattress is influenced by several factors, including its quality, the level of care it receives, and how frequently it's used,” Warford explains. For example, a mattress used nightly for sleeping, reading, or watching TV will wear out faster than one that's only used occasionally as a spare bed.

“Lifestyle changes, such as getting married or moving to a new home, as well as changes in our bodies – like weight fluctuations or ageing – may also necessitate a new mattress,” she adds.

Other factors she notes as signs that it's time for a change include experiencing aches and pains, disturbances if you or a partner move or you roll towards each other unintentionally, if you sleep better when you’re away in different beds and, of course, if the mattress “shows signs of visible wear and tear”.


How do you clean a mattress?

To remove stains, gently sponge your mattress using washing-up liquid and tepid water. For tougher marks, use diluted washing detergent. Ideally, use a washable mattress protector to keep it free from stains, dust mites and dead skin cells. It could be worth investing in a mattress vacuum, too.

Your mattress should last you at least seven years if you look after it. Each morning, pull back your duvet to let it air. Wash your bed linen weekly and rotate your mattress monthly, or according to the brand's guidelines. Look for a mattress with side handles to make this cumbersome chore easier.

The verdict on mattresses

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There’s no one size fits all answer to this. For a hybrid combination of memory foam and pocket spring, however, we suggest the Emma Original Pro Mattress. It's a mattress in a box too, making it a very practical pick.

For under £500, the REM-Fit Hybrid Pocket 1000 Mattress is comfortable, supportive and offers excellent value for money.

If you're a hot sleeper, look to the Luff Sleep The Prestige Hybrid Bamboo Mattress. Testers said it did an excellent job of regulating their temperature and keeping them cool overnight.

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Priyankaa Joshi
Sleep & Wellness Editor

Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more.   Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills. 

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Megan Geall
Senior Homes and Lifestyle Writer

Megan is the Good Housekeeping Institute’s senior homes and lifestyle writer. She loves diving into the latest product releases to find the very best buys on the market and has written hundreds of product reviews on everything from the best vacuum cleaners and coffee machines to the best ice cream makers and robot window cleaners.

When she’s not writing about the newest gadgets and gizmos for your home and garden, you’ll find her running every distance from 5km to 100km or relaxing at home with her cat – there really is no in between. 

Megan has an MA in Magazine Journalism and has previously written for Stylist, Glamour, Women's Health, TimeOut, SquareMeal, and YOU magazine. You can find Megan on Instagram @meganlouisegeall.

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Homes Testing Manager

Blossom is passionate about finding the best home products and appliances for GH readers. As head of the homes testing team, she has led reviews across multiple categories, from pizza ovens, and smart plugs to portable fans and hobs. She enjoys delving into the intricacies of products and refining testing protocols to ensure we’re testing them against their claims. Her aim is to find the top-performing products on the market, to help take the hard work out of housework. Blossom’s most notable accomplishment in the lab has been toasting 528 slices of bread in her quest to find the best toasters money can buy. In her free time, she openly admits to being a music geek and indulges her creative side through crocheting, baking, singing and writing.  

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Tested byKim Hawley
Senior Health & Fitness Tester

Kim Hawley is the Senior Health & Fitness Tester at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she leads the independent testing of health, fitness, wellness and sleep products using evidence-led protocols and her extensive industry expertise.  

With more than 30 years' experience in the health and fitness industry, Kim has worked as a lead personal trainer, fitness instructor and health writer, teaching at some of London's leading health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Kim has a particular interest in women's health, especially pre-, peri- and post-menopause, and combines hands-on industry experience with rigorous product evaluation. From fitness trackers and smartwatches to home gym equipment, recovery devices, wellness tech, supplements and sleep solutions, she oversees comprehensive testing to help consumers make confident, informed purchasing decisions they can trust.

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