Mattress Buying Guide

To choose the right mattress, start with how you sleep. Your sleep position, comfort preference, body weight and any aches or pains can all affect which mattress will feel best.

A side sleeper may need more cushioning around the shoulders and hips. Back sleepers usually need balanced support through the spine and lower back. If you sleep on your front, you may prefer a firmer mattress to stop your hips sinking too far.

When buying a mattress, think about:

Choosing the right mattress size depends on your bed frame, bedroom space and how much room you like when sleeping.

Common mattress size options include:

When comparing UK mattress sizes and Irish mattress options, the names and measurements are often similar, but you should always check the exact dimensions before you buy. This is especially important if you are replacing a mattress on an existing bed frame.

A bigger mattress can give you more space to stretch out, but make sure there is still enough room to move around the bedroom comfortably.

There is no single type of mattress that works for everyone. The best mattress depends on your body, sleep position and preferred feel.

Some people like the cushioning comfort of a foam mattress. Others prefer the bounce and support of a spring mattress. Many people choose a hybrid mattress because it combines different materials for the best of both worlds.

The most common mattress types include:

Each type of mattress has a different feel, so it is worth understanding the main differences before you pick a mattress.

A foam mattress is designed to offer cushioned comfort and support. Foam mattresses can help relieve pressure by adapting to the shape of your body.

A foam mattress can be a good choice if you like a softer, more cushioning feel. It can also be useful if you share your bed, as foam can help reduce movement transfer.

Some foam mattress options may feel warmer than spring-based mattresses, so hot sleepers may want to look for breathable or cooling features.

A memory foam mattress is a popular choice for people who want a mattress that can mould to your body. Memory foam responds to warmth and pressure, gently contouring around your shape.

This can help with pressure relief around areas such as the shoulders, hips and lower back. A memory foam mattress can also help reduce movement from a partner, which may support a more settled night’s sleep.

If you like the feeling of sinking into the mattress slightly, memory foam may suit you. If you prefer a bouncier or more traditional feel, you may prefer a spring mattress or hybrid mattress instead.

A spring mattress uses a system of springs to provide support. This is one of the most traditional mattress types and remains popular for people who like a responsive feel.

A spring mattress can feel bouncier than a foam mattress and may offer good airflow through the mattress. This can make it a practical option for many sleepers.

The comfort and support will depend on the spring system, the layers of the mattress and the quality of the materials used.

A pocket spring mattress uses individual springs, each usually wrapped in its own fabric pocket. This allows the mattress to respond more independently to your body.

A pocket-sprung mattress can provide targeted support because each spring can move separately. This can be useful if you share your bed, as movement on one side of the mattress is less likely to disturb the other person.

A pocket spring mattress can suit many sleep styles, especially if you like a more traditional mattress feel with good support.

A hybrid mattress combines different materials, often using springs for support and foam or other comfort layers for cushioning.

This type of mattress can be ideal if you want support and comfort in one design. A hybrid mattress may include memory foam, gel foam, pocket springs or other comfort materials, depending on the model.

For many people, a hybrid mattress offers the best of both worlds. It can give the responsive support of springs with the cushioning feel of foam.

Mattress firmness describes how soft or firm the mattress feels when you lie on it. Choosing the right mattress firmness is one of the most important parts of finding the right mattress.

Common firmness levels include:

A soft mattress may suit lighter sleepers or some side sleepers who need more cushioning. A medium-firm mattress can suit many sleepers because it offers a balance of comfort and support. A firm mattress may suit back sleepers, stomach sleepers or people who prefer a more supportive feel.

Firm mattresses are best for everyone is a common myth. In reality, the best mattress firmness depends on your body and how you sleep.

Choosing the right mattress firmness starts with your comfort preference, but support matters too.

If the mattress is too hard, you may feel pressure around the shoulders, hips or lower back. If the mattress is too soft, your body may sink too far, which can affect alignment and comfort.

As a general guide:

The right mattress should support your body without creating uncomfortable pressure points.

You may need a new mattress if your current mattress no longer feels comfortable or supportive. An old mattress can lose shape over time, especially if it has started to dip or sag.

Signs you may need a new mattress include:

A well-made mattress should support you properly, but no mattress lasts forever. If your original mattress is no longer doing its job, replacing it can help improve comfort and sleep quality.

Your sleep position can make a big difference to the mattress that suits you best.

If you sleep on your side, you may need a mattress that cushions the shoulders and hips. The best mattresses for side sleepers usually offer pressure relief while still supporting the waist and lower back.

If you sleep on your back, look for a mattress that supports the natural curve of the spine. Back sleepers often benefit from a medium to firm feel, depending on body weight and preference.

If you sleep on your front, you may need a firmer mattress to help keep your hips supported.

If you move between positions, a medium or medium-firm mattress can be a good starting point.

If you suffer from back pain, your mattress can make a difference to how supported you feel at night. The best mattress for back pain is usually one that keeps your spine aligned while still offering comfort and pressure relief.

A mattress for back pain should support areas like the lower back, hips and shoulders. If your mattress is too soft, your body may sink too far. If your mattress is too firm, it may create pressure points.

The best mattress for back pain depends on your sleep position, body weight and personal comfort preference. If your back pain is severe, new or ongoing, it is sensible to speak to a healthcare professional.

When looking at mattress brands, it helps to compare comfort, support, materials, size options and customer reviews. The best mattress brands are usually those that offer clear information, reliable quality and options for different sleep needs.

we offer a wide range of mattresses from trusted brands and mattress companies, including options across different mattress types, comfort grades and budgets.

If you are mattress shopping and feel unsure where to start, it can help to compare by sleep position, firmness and mattress size first, rather than looking at brand alone.

Mattress offers can make it easier to buy a better mattress within your budget. However, it is important not to choose only by price.

The cheapest type of mattress may be suitable for occasional use or a spare room, but your main mattress should give you the right support for everyday sleep.

When comparing mattress offers, look at:

A good deal is only a good deal if the mattress that suits your needs.

A mattress topper can change the feel of your mattress. It may add extra cushioning if your mattress is too hard, or make your bed feel more comfortable.

The best mattress toppers can be useful if your mattress is still supportive but just needs a little extra comfort.

However, a mattress topper will not fix a mattress that is sagging, uneven or no longer supporting your body. If your current mattress has lost its shape, a new mattress is usually the better long-term choice.

To keep your mattress clean, it is worth using a mattress protector from the beginning. A mattress protector helps guard against spills, sweat, dust and everyday wear.

You should also give your mattress regular care by airing it, vacuuming it gently and washing bedding often. Always follow the care instructions for your specific mattress.

Using a mattress protector is one of the easiest ways to help your mattress stay fresher for longer.

If you can visit a store, take time to properly feel the mattress. Do not judge it by sitting on the edge for a few seconds.

Lie down in your usual sleep position. If you sleep on your back, check that your lower back feels supported. If you sleep on your side, check that your shoulders and hips feel cushioned. If you sleep on your front, check that your hips do not sink too far.

Mattress testers and in-store tools can also help narrow down your options. Dreams Sleepmatch, for example, can help match you with suitable mattresses based on your body and comfort needs.

Our online Mattress Finder powered by Sleepmatch™ technology will help you find perfect mattress in minutes.

Just answer a few simple questions and our exclusive Sleepmatch™ tool will browse your results to find the mattresses that are best suited to you. 

Buying a mattress is easier when you focus on what your body actually needs.

Here are a few simple mattress buying tips:

The ideal mattress should suit your sleep habits, your body and your bedroom.

To find the best mattress, start with your sleep position, preferred firmness and the type of mattress you like. Then think about size, support, comfort and how often the mattress will be used.

A foam mattress can offer cushioning comfort. A memory foam mattress can mould to your body and help relieve pressure. A spring mattress can offer bounce and airflow. A pocket spring mattress can provide targeted support. A hybrid mattress can combine comfort and support in one design.

The best mattress is not the same for everyone. The right mattress is the one that supports your body, feels comfortable and helps you get a better night’s sleep.

If you are ready to choose a mattress, compare our current mattress range, check mattress offers, and use Sleepmatch or visit one of our stores to help find the right option for you.