Your Complete Guide to Choosing a Mattress (with Expert Tips!)

Finding the right mattress can feel overwhelming - especially when every option in the market claims to be the best for your sleep. To help you cut through the confusion, we’ve collaborated with an expert from Cloud9, a well-established mattress and bed brand in the UK, known for its research-backed designs and commitment to quality comfort. With years of experience in crafting mattresses that suit a wide range of needs and preferences, Cloud9 brings valuable insight to this guide. Read on for expert-backed tips and practical advice to help you choose with confidence.

Things to Consider

Before you start browsing, it’s important to understand a few key factors that can make all the difference when choosing a mattress that fits your lifestyle and needs.

• Budget: Mattresses in the UK range from under £150 to over £1,000, depending on size, materials, and brand. Set a clear budget early on, but remember - deals and seasonal offers (especially on platforms like Wowcher) can help you get premium quality at a lower cost.
• Sleeping Style: Whether you're a side sleeper, back sleeper or tend to toss and turn, your sleeping position plays a big role in which type of mattress will offer the most comfort and support. We'll explore this in more depth below, but it’s worth noting your general habits now.
• Bed Frame Compatibility: Not all mattresses suit all bed bases. For example, memory foam mattresses need a solid or slatted base with slats no more than 7 cm apart. Always check the frame guidelines to avoid damaging your mattress or invalidating the warranty.
• Available Space: Take accurate room measurements before committing to a mattress size. A king-size might sound appealing, but if it leaves no space for bedside tables or free movement, a double might be the more practical option for a UK bedroom.
• Support Needs: If you suffer from back pain or joint stiffness, focus on mattresses with orthopaedic support or zoned springs that offer firmer pressure in areas like the hips and lower back. You don’t necessarily need the firmest mattress - just one that keeps your spine aligned.
• Purpose: Are you buying this for your own daily use, a guest room, or for a child? For guest rooms, your best bet is to opt for a mattress with medium firmness - it offers a balanced feel that suits most sleeping styles and ensures visitors rest comfortably. For children, prioritise hypoallergenic, breathable materials and consistent support to aid healthy sleep and physical development.

Types of Mattresses

Understanding the different types of mattresses is key to making the right choice for your comfort and needs. Each material and construction style offers unique benefits - some focus on pressure relief, others on breathability, bounce, or targeted support. Below, we've broken down the most popular mattress types in the UK to help you compare and find what works best for you.

Memory Foam Mattress

Memory foam mattresses are made from a type of dense polyurethane foam that softens in response to heat and pressure, moulding to your body’s natural shape. Originally developed by NASA, they’re now a popular choice for those seeking comfort and support during sleep. “Memory foam is ideal for side sleepers, couples, and anyone with joint pain - it offers a contouring effect that really helps relieve pressure,” says our expert from Cloud9. Some of the popular memory foam mattresses available in recent times include traditional memory foam, gel-infused memory foam and open-cell memory foam.

General Price: Typically ranges from £180 to £600 in the UK, depending on the mattress depth, foam density, and whether it includes cooling technologies like gel or open-cell foam.

Key Features: Here are the key features that help understand memory foam mattresses better:

• Pressure Relief: Memory foam is known for easing tension at common pressure points like the shoulders and hips. “It’s especially helpful for side sleepers who need extra cushioning in those areas,” explains our Cloud9 expert.
• Customised Support: The foam adapts to your individual body shape, delivering support exactly where it’s needed. This can be particularly beneficial for people with chronic joint pain or stiffness.
• Excellent Motion Isolation: As noted by our Cloud9 expert, memory foam is ideal for couples, as it prevents movements from transferring across the bed.
• Allergy-Friendly Material: The dense foam structure helps resist dust mites and allergen build-up, making it a good option for allergy sufferers.

Cons: While memory foam has its benefits, it’s worth keeping the following in mind:

• Tends to Retain Heat: Traditional memory foam can trap body heat, which might be uncomfortable for hot sleepers. “We often recommend gel-infused or open-cell memory foam as cooler alternatives,” advises our Cloud9 expert.
• Slow Response and Sinkage: Some sleepers may find the foam slow to bounce back after movement, which can feel restrictive or too soft, especially for those who prefer a more responsive surface.

Hybrid Mattress

Hybrid mattresses are built using a combination of foam layers - such as memory foam or latex - paired with a base of innerspring coils to deliver both cushioning and structural support. This layered design aims to offer the pressure relief of foam with the responsiveness and airflow of springs. “A hybrid mattress suits people who want a balanced feel - supportive but still comfortable,” says our expert from Cloud9, highlighting its versatility for a wide range of sleepers.

General Price: Typically ranges from £300 to £900 in the UK, depending on the number of layers, quality of the coil system, and any added features like cooling gel or reinforced edges.

Key Features: Here are the key features that make hybrid mattresses a dependable and popular choice:

• Balanced Support: The mix of foam and springs offers a great blend of comfort and support, making it ideal for back and stomach sleepers who need spinal alignment without too much softness.
• Improved Breathability: The coil base promotes airflow throughout the mattress, helping to reduce heat build-up and keep the surface cooler during sleep - a benefit highlighted by our Cloud9 expert.
• Reliable Edge Support: Many hybrids include a reinforced coil perimeter that helps prevent sagging and provides added stability when sitting or sleeping near the edge.
• Good Durability: Hybrid mattresses often last longer than foam-only options, thanks to the structural integrity provided by the coil system.

Cons: While hybrids offer strong all-round performance, there are a few things to be aware of:

• Heavier Build and Motion Transfer: Due to the inclusion of a full coil layer, hybrid mattresses are generally heavier than foam-only options. And while they do a better job of absorbing movement than traditional innerspring mattresses, some motion transfer may still be noticeable - particularly for light sleepers sharing a bed.
• Higher Price Point: Hybrid mattresses are often priced higher than single-material models, such as basic memory foam or open-coil designs.
  
  

Gel Mattress

Gel mattresses are typically built by infusing gel into memory foam or latex layers, aiming to counteract heat retention while maintaining body-contouring comfort. This design offers a cooler sleep experience without sacrificing pressure relief or support. “Gel mattresses are ideal for hot sleepers, those who prefer a cooler sleep surface, and side sleepers who need extra pressure relief,” says our expert from Cloud9, explaining who benefits most from this type of mattress.

General Price: Typically ranges from £250 to £850, depending on whether the gel is infused, layered, or combined with premium foams.

Key Features: Here are the key features that make gel mattresses stand out:

• Pressure Relief: Gel layers enhance the pressure-relieving qualities of memory foam, offering extra comfort for side sleepers and those with joint sensitivity.
• Cooling Comfort: The gel layer is designed to dissipate body heat, regulate temperature and maintain a cooler sleep surface throughout the night, making it ideal for hot or sweaty sleepers, as well as those living in warmer climates.
• Added Support: Beyond cooling, gel also contributes to improved stability by reinforcing the foam structure, helping to reduce excessive sinkage.
• Minimal Motion Transfer: Gel-infused foam absorbs movement well, so even if your partner tosses and turns, you're less likely to be disturbed.

Cons: While gel mattresses offer several advantages, there are a couple of important considerations:

• Higher Price Tag: Gel mattresses often cost more than standard memory foam options due to the additional materials and cooling technology involved.
• Variable Quality: The quality and effectiveness of gel can vary significantly between brands and models, depending on how the gel is integrated and where the layers are positioned, as noted by the Cloud9 expert.

Pocket Sprung Mattress

“A pocket sprung mattress features individual springs enclosed in fabric pockets, allowing for independent movement and support,” explains our expert from Cloud9. These mattresses are known for combining tailored comfort with balanced support and good airflow. The number of springs - known as the spring count - can vary, and a higher count (such as 2000 or more) typically offers better support and pressure relief by more evenly distributing your body weight.

General Price: Typically ranges from £200 to £1000, depending on the number of springs, materials used in the comfort layers, and overall build quality.

Key Features: Here are the key features that make pocket sprung mattresses a reliable and widely chosen option:

• Personalised Support: Each spring works independently to respond to different pressure points, offering support where it’s needed most - ideal for those with uneven weight distribution or spinal concerns.
• Motion Isolation: The individual spring design reduces partner disturbance, making it a good choice for couples with different sleep patterns.
• Breathability: Airflow is naturally better in pocket sprung mattresses due to the space between springs, helping to regulate temperature overnight.
• Strong Durability: “Pocket sprung mattresses can be long-lasting, particularly when well-constructed and used with a supportive base,” notes the Cloud9 expert.

Cons: Despite their many advantages, a few factors are worth considering:

• Heavier Build: Due to the spring count and materials used, pocket sprung mattresses can be heavy and less easy to move.
• Variable Edge Support and Cost: Edge support can differ between models depending on design, as well as high-quality pocket sprung mattresses can be more expensive than standard open coil alternatives.

Orthopaedic Mattress

“An orthopaedic mattress is designed to provide support and alignment for the spine, joints, and muscles,” explains our expert from Cloud9. These mattresses are often made using high-density foam or specially engineered support systems to provide targeted comfort for people with musculoskeletal issues. Orthopaedic mattresses often have a firmness rating of firm or extra firm. 

General Price: Typically ranges from £300 to £1000, depending on the materials used and the level of medical-grade support provided.

Key Features: Here are the key features that make orthopaedic mattresses particularly beneficial:

• Spinal Alignment: These mattresses help maintain the natural curve of your spine, which is especially important if you suffer from back problems.
• Pressure Relief: “Orthopaedic mattresses can reduce pressure points, especially for those with back and joint pain,” adds the Cloud9 expert, highlighting their suitability for pain management.
• Improved Sleep Posture: Their firm and stable surface encourages proper posture throughout the night, which can reduce tossing and turning.
• Reliable for Specific Needs: Ideal for back and stomach sleepers, orthopaedic mattresses also support people recovering from physical injuries or older people dealing with chronic discomfort.

Cons: Despite their therapeutic benefits, orthopaedic mattresses may not suit everyone:

• Too Firm for Some Sleepers: The firmness level, while beneficial for spinal alignment, may feel uncomfortable for side sleepers or those who prefer a plush surface.
• Higher Price Point: Orthopaedic mattresses are often more expensive than standard models, as they include specialised support features and materials tailored for health-related use.

Open Spring Mattress

Open spring mattresses - also known as open coil spring mattresses or Bonnell spring mattresses - are one of the most common and affordable types available. They feature interconnected metal coils that move as a single unit, offering a basic level of support across the surface. While not as adaptive as other mattress types, they remain a popular choice for occasional use and tighter budgets.

General Price: Typically costs between £100 and £400, making them a budget-friendly option for guest rooms or temporary setups.

Key Features: Here are the key features that define an open spring mattress:

• Affordable Entry Point: These mattresses are among the cheapest options on the market, making them accessible for students, landlords furnishing rental properties, or anyone needing a short-term solution.
• Lightweight and Easy to Move: Their simpler construction makes them easier to transport, flip, or rotate compared to heavier foam or hybrid models.
• Firm Overall Feel: The interconnected coils provide a uniform level of firmness, which may suit back sleepers or those who prefer a firmer sleep surface.
• Better Ventilation: The open coil structure allows for airflow, which can help prevent overheating during the night.

Cons: Open spring mattresses do have a few drawbacks to consider:

• Lack of Targeted Support: Because the springs move together rather than independently, they don’t offer the same body-contouring or pressure relief as pocket sprung or memory foam alternatives.
• Shorter Lifespan: These mattresses are prone to sagging and wear more quickly, especially with daily use, which may lead to reduced comfort over time.

Latex Foam Mattress

Latex mattresses, also known as latex foam mattresses, are made using either natural latex (from rubber tree sap), synthetic latex, or a blend of both. Known for their resilience and breathability, latex mattresses offer a buoyant feel that gently supports the body without the deep sinking sensation of memory foam. They're also a popular eco-conscious choice due to the availability of organic and sustainably sourced options.

General Price: Typically ranges from £450 to £1500, depending on whether the latex is natural, synthetic, or blended, and whether the mattress includes certifications like GOLS or OEKO-TEX.

Key Features: Here are the key features that make latex foam mattresses stand out:

• Responsive Pressure Relief: Latex foam gently contours to the body to relieve pressure at key points like the hips, shoulders, and lower back, while its natural elasticity promotes spinal alignment by offering tailored support across different body zones.
• Temperature Regulation: Naturally breathable and cooling, latex helps draw heat away from the body and maintain a stable sleep temperature throughout the night - ideal for hot sleepers.
• Hypoallergenic Properties: Natural latex is naturally resistant to dust mites, mould, and other common allergens, making it a solid choice for allergy sufferers.
• Long-Lasting Durability: High-quality latex mattresses are among the most durable on the market, often retaining their shape and support for over a decade with proper care.

Cons: While latex mattresses offer many benefits, there are a few drawbacks worth noting:

• Heavier and Less Flexible: Latex mattresses tend to be heavier and harder to move, which can make rotating or transporting them more difficult.
• Higher Cost: Natural latex models in particular can be expensive, especially those with organic certifications or premium manufacturing standards.

Pillowtop Mattress

Pillowtop mattresses are designed with an extra layer of plush padding stitched onto the top surface, offering a cloud-like sleeping experience that feels soft and inviting from the moment you lie down. This added layer, often made from memory foam, latex, or fibrefill, cushions the body without altering the underlying support of the mattress. Popular in premium hotels and increasingly in UK households, they’re often combined with pocket sprung or hybrid cores to balance softness with stability.

General Price: Typically ranges from £300 to £1200, with pricing influenced by the core support type (such as pocket spring or hybrid), the thickness and material of the pillowtop layer.

Key Features: Here are the key features that make pillowtop mattresses a comfort-driven choice for many sleepers:

• Deep Cushioning Comfort: The sewn-on pillow layer offers an immediately soft and luxurious surface that feels gentle on joints and pressure points, ideal for sleepers who enjoy a cushioned, sink-in sensation.
• Supportive Core: Most pillowtop mattresses are built on a sturdy foundation - like a pocket sprung or hybrid base - which ensures spinal alignment and prevents the overly saggy feel.
• Pressure Relief: The extra padding helps ease tension in sensitive areas such as shoulders and hips, making pillowtop mattresses particularly beneficial for side sleepers who require deeper cushioning.
• Ideal for Guest Use: The universally inviting feel and comfort-forward design make these mattresses a popular choice for guest rooms, as they tend to suit a variety of sleeping styles without needing customisation.

Cons: Despite their plush feel, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

• Compressed Top Layer Over Time: The pillowtop layer may lose loft or flatten with extended use, especially if made from low-density foam or fibrefill, which can lead to dips and uneven comfort zones.
• Not Ideal to Rotate or Flip: Due to the one-sided design and added top bulk, most pillowtop mattresses cannot be flipped and can be awkward to rotate regularly, limiting their lifespan if not cared for properly.

Mattress Firmness

What is mattress firmness?

Mattress firmness describes how soft or firm a bed feels when you lie on it. While comfort is subjective, the right firmness helps keep your spine aligned and supports healthy sleep posture.

Understanding the Firmness Scale

The firmness scale runs from 1 (extremely soft) to 10 (ultra-firm), with 6.5 considered medium-firm – a balanced choice for most sleepers. Softer mattresses (3–5) offer deep cushioning, ideal for side sleepers. Medium-firm options (6–7) provide support with gentle contouring, great for back and combination sleepers. Firm mattresses (8–10) offer minimal sinkage and are best for stomach sleepers and those needing extra lift.

Soft Mattresses

Designed with plush memory foam or pillow tops, soft mattresses cradle the body for a cushioned sleep experience. These mattresses are designed to provide deep sinkage and gentle contouring. “Soft mattresses are ideal for lighter-weight sleepers and those who love a cosy, sink-in feel”, as quoted by the Cloud9 expert.

Medium-Firm Mattresses

The Cloud9 experts note that medium-firm mattresses - typically rated between 5 and 7 out of 10 - strike an ideal balance between cushioning and support, making them suitable for a broad range of sleepers. This firmness level supports back and stomach sleepers, while still providing pressure relief for side sleepers - especially those within the average weight range of 130 to 230 pounds. It’s also often recommended for combination sleepers and couples with different sleep preferences, as it offers a comfortable middle ground.

Firm Mattresses

Firm mattresses are usually made with minimal cushioning over dense foam or spring systems, offering a more lifted, less contouring feel. Cloud9 expert advises, “Firm mattresses are best for stomach sleepers and heavier individuals who need extra lift to maintain spinal alignment.” They’re excellent at preventing midsection sagging.

What is the Best Firmness for a Mattress?

There’s no single best firmness level - it depends on your sleep position, body weight, and comfort preferences. Side sleepers usually benefit from softer mattresses (typically 4-6/10) that cushion the shoulders and hips, while back and stomach sleepers need firmer surfaces (7/10 or higher) to maintain proper spinal alignment. Combination sleepers who shift positions should opt for medium-firm mattresses that offer both mobility and comfort.

How to Choose the Right Firmness

To find the right firmness, start by identifying your main sleeping position. Then take into account your body weight also. Heavier individuals often require firmer mattresses for proper alignment, while lighter sleepers tend to feel more comfortable on softer models. It’s also important to consider any physical discomfort or shared sleep preferences; those with joint pain may need plush top layers, while couples with different needs often find medium-firm options offer the best balance.
To explore our full guide to mattress firmness - including a detailed breakdown of the firmness scale, construction insights, and expert tips for choosing the right feel, visit our exclusive page - Mattress Firmness Guide.

Mattress Sizes

When buying a mattress in the UK, understanding standard mattress dimensions is essential to ensure a comfortable fit - both for the sleeper and the room. UK mattress sizes differ from those in Europe and the US, so it’s important to check measurements carefully before buying.

Small Beds

Small Single and Single Mattresses

Small Single mattresses (75 x 190 cm) are ideal for young children, bunk beds, and box rooms. Single mattresses (90 x 190 cm) offer more width, perfect for teenagers, solo adults, or compact guest rooms.

Medium Sized Beds

Small Double and Double Mattresses

Small Double mattresses (120 x 190 cm) suit couples in space-limited bedrooms or solo sleepers wanting extra width. Double mattress (135 x 190 cm) is the UK’s standard for couples, comfortably fitting most guest rooms and smaller master bedrooms.

Large Beds

King and Super King Mattresses

King size mattresses (150 x 200 cm) provide extra legroom and width - great for taller individuals or couples in master bedrooms. Super King mattresses (180 x 200 cm) offer maximum sleeping space, ideal for co-sleeping families and large modern suites.

To read our full guide on UK bed and mattress sizes - including sizing tips, room layout advice, and bed frame compatibility - visit this exclusive page - UK Bed & Mattress Size Guide.

Best Mattress for Your Sleeping Position

Choosing a mattress that matches the way you sleep is essential for maintaining spinal alignment and waking up pain-free. According to our expert from Cloud9, “Each sleeping position places different demands on your spine and joints, so the mattress should be chosen to support that alignment and reduce strain.” Below, we’ve broken down the best mattress types for different sleepers.

• Side Sleepers: Side sleepers benefit from softer to medium-soft mattresses that cushion pressure points like shoulders and hips. Materials like memory foam or gel-infused foam are ideal for this position, offering contouring support without compromising alignment. The expert recommends looking for pressure-relieving zones to avoid joint discomfort.
• Back Sleepers: Back sleepers need a medium-firm to firm mattress that maintains the spine’s natural curve and supports the lower back. Zoned or orthopaedic mattresses are especially beneficial for this group. “Look for a mattress with lumbar support to prevent sagging around the hips,” advises the Cloud9 expert.
• Stomach Sleepers: Stomach sleepers require a firmer mattress to prevent the hips from sinking and pulling the spine out of alignment. Innerspring or high-density foam mattresses provide the needed support and stability. The expert warns that soft mattresses in this position can lead to long-term back or neck strain.
• Combination Sleepers: If you switch positions during the night, a responsive mattress that adapts quickly to movement is key. Medium to medium-firm hybrid or latex options work well here, offering a balance of pressure relief and support. Zoned construction can also be helpful in accommodating different positions.

Other Important Considerations

• Couples: For couples, motion isolation is essential to ensure uninterrupted sleep. Memory foam or hybrid mattresses are often best at absorbing movement from a restless partner. The expert also recommends considering a larger mattress size like a King or Super King for added comfort.
• Children: Children need supportive and durable mattresses made with safe, breathable materials. Hybrid or open coil designs with removable covers are ideal, especially if they meet safety certifications. “Prioritise non-toxic materials and ease of cleaning,” suggests the Cloud9 expert.

Online Shopping Tips

Buying a mattress online offers convenience, more choice, and often better deals than in-store shopping. You can compare models, read real customer reviews, and avoid showroom pressure - all from the comfort of home. However, one clear drawback is that you can’t lie down and test it before buying, which makes it all the more important to shop smart.

Here are some key tips to make your online mattress shopping experience easier and more effective:

• Time Your Purchase: Mattress prices often drop significantly during key sale periods like Black Friday, Boxing Day, Easter bank holidays, and end-of-season clearance events (around March and September). If you’re not in a rush, waiting for these times can save you hundreds.
• Use Price Comparison Tools: Don’t just settle for the first deal you see. Use comparison tools, browse multiple platforms (like Wowcher, brand websites, and trusted retailers), and keep an eye out for price match promises or exclusive online-only discounts.
• Check for Voucher Codes and Bundles: Many mattress brands and e-commerce platforms offer voucher codes or bundle deals that include free pillows, bedding, or discounts on a bed frame. Signing up for newsletters or following brands on social media can also unlock first-time buyer discounts.
• Understand Firmness Ratings: Firmness is usually rated on a scale from 1 to 10, with most people falling between a 5 and 7 depending on their sleeping position and body weight. If you’re unsure, look for brands that offer detailed firmness guides or comparison charts based on your sleeping habits.
• Look Beyond Marketing Language: Terms like “luxury” or “orthopaedic” can sound vague sometimes. Instead, read the specifications - check for foam density, spring count, zoned support, and certifications like CertiPUR or OEKO-TEX to understand what you're really buying.
• Read Customer Reviews: Reviews offer insight that product descriptions often don’t. Pay attention to comments about durability, delivery experience, edge support, and heat retention. Photos from customers can also help you assess real-life quality.
• Make Use of Trials and Guarantees: Since you can’t physically test the mattress beforehand, check if the brand offers a home trial period - ideally 100 nights or more. This lets you truly evaluate comfort over time and return the mattress if it’s not right for you.

Many online mattress brands now include generous trial periods, easy return policies, and convenient delivery options to take the risk out of buying unseen. In the next section, we’ll cover exactly how these trials, guarantees, and delivery policies work - and what to look out for when evaluating them.

Mattress Trials, Guarantees, Returns & Delivery

When buying a mattress online, understanding the policies around trials, guarantees, returns and delivery is key to making a confident choice. While specific details vary by brand, there are common standards in the UK mattress market you should be aware of before making your purchase.

Trials

Most leading mattress brands now offer a sleep trial period ranging from 60 to 365 nights, allowing you to test the mattress in your own home. If you're not satisfied within the trial window, you can usually return it for a full refund - though conditions may apply, such as minimum usage period or the need to use a mattress protector.

Guarantees

Mattress guarantees typically cover 5 to 10 years, with some premium models offering up to 15 years of coverage. These warranties usually protect against manufacturing defects, sagging beyond a certain depth (e.g. 2.5cm), and faults in the foam or springs - but not wear and tear or accidental damage.

Returns

Return policies differ depending on the retailer and whether the mattress was part of a sleep trial. Most companies will arrange free collection for returns during the trial period, while standard returns (if no trial is offered) may incur restocking or transport fees. Make sure to keep the original packaging or check if the brand accepts returns without it.

Delivery

Many online mattress brands in the UK offer free delivery, with options for standard (to your door) or premium (room-of-choice or setup). Delivery typically takes 3 to 10 working days, depending on stock availability and location. Some companies also offer old mattress removal for an extra charge.

Important things to remember

• Always read the fine print of the trial and guarantee to understand exclusions, especially in bundles or promotional offers.
• Use a suitable bed base or frame to avoid invalidating your warranty.
• Register your mattress warranty if the brand requires it - some ask you to do this within a certain number of days after delivery.
• Document any issues with photos if you're planning a return or warranty claim.
• Avoid removing mattress tags prematurely, as these can sometimes be required for warranty validation.

Mattress Care and Maintenance

Caring for your mattress properly ensures it remains clean, supportive, and durable over time. Using mattress protectors and toppers is an effective way to enhance comfort and extend your mattress’s lifespan.

Mattress Protectors

Mattress protectors prevent spills, stains, dust mites, allergens, and even bed bugs from settling into your mattress surface - helping to preserve hygiene and structural integrity. Options include waterproof protectors for spill resistance, hypoallergenic ones for allergy control, and infused versions (like copper or graphene) for antibacterial benefits, as well as quilted or bed bug-resistant styles. 

“When choosing a mattress protector, look for one that’s water-resistant, breathable, and fits snugly over your mattress,” advises the Cloud9 expert. He recommends a deep-pocket or fitted design to ensure it stays in place, especially on thicker mattresses, and suggests choosing machine-washable materials like cotton or mesh for comfort and convenience.

Mattress Toppers

A mattress topper adds an extra layer of comfort, support and pressure relief to your existing mattress. Popular mattress topper options include memory foam for pressure relief, orthopaedic for firm support, cooling gel for temperature regulation, natural materials like cotton, wool, latex, and bamboo for breathability and durability, and softer choices such as microfibre or feather for budget-friendly comfort.

“When selecting a mattress topper, consider the material carefully - whether it’s memory foam for contouring, latex for bounce, or wool for natural insulation,” advises the Cloud9 expert. He also highlights the importance of thickness and density for achieving the right balance of comfort and support, and suggests looking for features like temperature control and hypoallergenic properties to suit your individual sleep needs.

To explore our in-depth guide covering mattress topper care, maintenance, types of toppers and protectors, firmness levels, and sizes, head to this exclusive page - How to Choose a Mattress Topper and Protector.

When to Change Your Mattress

While a good mattress can last several years, it’s not designed to last forever. Over time, wear and tear - no matter how subtle - can affect the support, hygiene, and comfort your mattress offers. Replacing your mattress at the right time is essential for maintaining proper spinal alignment, reducing pain, and ensuring you get restorative sleep night after night.

According to our expert from Cloud9, “Most mattresses should be replaced every 7 to 10 years, although the exact lifespan depends on the quality of materials, how often it’s used, and how well it’s maintained.” High-quality models may last longer, but heavy use or sleeping with a partner every night can shorten their lifespan. Routine care - such as rotating the mattress and using protectors - can help extend its life, but it will eventually need replacing.

Signs It's Time to Replace Your Mattress

• Visible Sagging or Dips: If your mattress has developed noticeable indentations or uneven surfaces, it’s no longer providing adequate support.
• Loss of Comfort and Support: Waking up with aches and pains or feeling less rested than usual could indicate the mattress is no longer meeting your body’s needs.
• Increased Allergies or Sensitivities: Over time, mattresses can accumulate dust mites, allergens, and other irritants - especially if not regularly cleaned.
• Discomfort or Poor Sleep Quality: If you’re tossing and turning more than usual, or waking up feeling stiff or sore, your mattress might be to blame.
• Noisy Springs: Squeaking or creaking sounds from the mattress - particularly with older spring models - can signal worn-out internal components that affect performance.

Choosing the right mattress is an important decision that can impact your health, comfort, and quality of sleep for years to come. By understanding the different types, considering your sleeping position, and knowing what to look for when shopping online, you can make a well-informed choice. With expert insights from Cloud9 and practical tips throughout this guide, you're now better equipped to find the mattress that truly supports your sleep - night after night.