I’ve been testing mattresses for over five years and have learned that comfort is subjective, so the best mattress for you will be different to what feels good to me. And that’s ok. Choosing a mattress that suits your body and sleep style is a great investment because the comfier you are in bed, the better you’ll sleep and the healthier you’ll feel afterwards.
For over half a decade my team of sleep experts and I have spent thousands of hours researching, sleeping on and testing all the latest mattresses (traditional and boxed). I know from analysing all that test data, and from reading user reviews, that the best mattresses relieve pressure points across your body, keep your spine aligned to prevent back pain, and keep you at a comfy temperature for sleeping.
I’ve ranked the top-performing options for every budget in this guide, and several of them are now reduced in price thanks to this year’s Black Friday mattress deals. As a Certified Sleep Science Coach I’m also sharing all my knowledge of how to choose the best mattress for you, with my expert tips on what to look for and what to avoid located further down this guide.
1. The best mattress of 2024 overall
Quick summary
We loved the Simba Hybrid Ultra Mattress so much we awarded it top marks — a full five stars. It's a true medium-firm bed, with a squishy and pressure relieving surface combined with head-to-toe support.
The Hybrid Ultra is the tallest, most luxurious mattress in the Simba line-up, featuring nine internal layers and the very best of Simba's sleep technology. It's also the most expensive bed in the range (and this guide), with prices starting at £1,899. That's a lot of money for a mattress but this is a bed we struggled to find fault with. It's breathable and cool for hot sleepers, supportive from edge-to-edge, and despite a bouncy finish, bed sharers can sleep soundly without disturbing their partner.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
The most comfortable mattress we've slept on, the Simba Ultra Hybrid proves it's worth the price tag to take the top spot in our guide.
Our review: in more detail
The Simba Hybrid Ultra Mattress is a luxury bed from one of our favorite sleep brands (they're also responsible for the Simba Earth Escape at #11). The Hybrid Ultra is also the priciest bed from Simba, and a competitor of the Relyon Bridgwater Dunpillow Latex Mattress (#3).
So how does the Hybrid Ultra justify the expense — and our five-star review? Luxuriously thick (at 34 cm tall it's at the top end of mattress thickness), the complex build encompasses two layers of Simbatex foam, two layers of mirco springs, a further two taller spring layers, plus stabilizing foams, and a top layer consisting of wool, bamboo, charcoal, and cooling kapok.
It's a complex build and the result is a mattress thats comfortable from the very first night. Our testing team described it as a "true medium-firm", sturdy from edge-to-edge but with a squishiness that adds plenty of pressure relief. We liked it for every sleep position, and the responsive foam makes it easy to move around in the night.
While the Simba Hybrid Ultra doesn't quite 'mould' to your shape, it gently adapts to the body. For more of a 'hug' feel, consider the Emma Elite at #9. It does spring back into place quickly to ensure you never lose comfort and despite this bounciness, our testers were impressed with the motion isolation. If you share with a restless partner, you should sleep through their movement.
We awarded the Hybrid Ultra top marks for temperature regulation, finding it stayed a neutral feel throughout the night. It even measures up to our favorite cooling mattress, the Panda Bamboo (#9). Overall, a comfy night's sleep in a luxury package.
What we like about it...
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✅ Suits all sleep styles: Every member of our testing panel praised the Simba Hybrid Ultra, finding it suited front, side, and back sleeping positions. No matter how you drift off, the Simba Hybrid Ultra should keep you comfortable.
✅ Stays a comfortable temperature all night: Simba uses a "cool-touch" Stratos cover, combined with a breathable FusionCool layer plus plenty of springs to keep air circulating and prevent overheating.
✅ A luxurious build and feel: The Hybrid Ultra has a sumptuous thickness and is packed full of cutting-edge materials. The overall effect is one of immediate comfort and total luxury.
What we don't like about it...
❌ An ultra premium buy: The Simba Hybrid Ultra is the most expensive mattress in this guide, and even on sale it's expensive. The DreamCloud (#6) looks more luxurious, but it does lack the all-round performance quality of the Simba.
❌ Less luxurious finish: It's not that the Hybrid Ultra looks bad, it's just that the packaging doesn't quite convey the premium build. If you want a Simba that looks as premium as it costs, consider the Earth Escape (#11).
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | Fantastic for pretty much every body type and sleep style, plus comfortable from the very first night. | ★★★★★ |
| Pressure relief | A satisfying "give" that gently contours to your body to relieve pressure where you push into the bed. | ★★★★★ |
| Temperature control | Stays a neutral temperature overnight, our testers never overheated. | ★★★★★ |
| Motion isolation | Our testers found the mattress a touch bouncy, but could sleep soundly when sharing a bed with a restless sleeper. | ★★★★½ |
| Edge support | Excellent, we felt supported even when sitting on the edge. | ★★★★½ |
| Build quality | A fantastic build that feels packed full of quality materials. Expect a good longevity. | ★★★★★ |
When, where, and how to buy
The Simba Hybrid Ultra Mattress is available both in-store and online. Simba stores can be found across England, although Simba recommends if you want to test a specific bed, call up before hand to check it's in stock.
Online, the Hybrid Ultra can be purchased direct from Simba. Simba offers a 200-night trial and a 10-year guarantee which are fine for a mattress but we might expect slightly better at this price. (The Nectar at #4 comes with a year long trial and a lifetime guarantee.)
Simba mattress sales are semi-frequent, but that doesn't mean you can always find a deal on this specific model. If you want to save, the best time tends to nab a deal tends to be around the peak sales, such as the Black Friday Simba mattress deals.
You can also find the Simba Hybrid Ultra on certain third-party sites, including Land of Beds. If Simba isn't running a sale, it's worth checking third-party sites for a discount. However, keep in mind these retailers don't always honour the benefits you'd get shopping direct.
Simba is one of the best mattress brands in the UK and the Hybrid Ultra hits that sweet spot between performance and price. You get a lot of mattress for your money here, including a cooler sleep surface and excellent pressure relief. It has a good bit of bounce to it, while still isolating motion transfer from your partner for an undisturbed night’s sleep. The Simba Hybrid Ultra isn’t cheap at £2,043 for a double this Black Friday, but I think it’s well-worth the money. For a cheaper alternative, I recommend the original Simba Hybrid (from £449) – it isn’t as polished and the edge support is weaker, but it’s a good affordable hybrid for couples and teens.
Read more: Simba Hybrid Ultra Mattress review
2. The best affordable mattress
Quick summary
Offering excellent value for money, the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress is a well-priced bed from one of our favourite sleep brands. The medium-firm feel is comfortable for back and stomach sleepers, but this is a good all-rounder with enough pressure relief to suit most side sleepers.
The Nectar's closest rival is the Zoma (#2), but the Nectar delivers more of a classic foam feel. Even though it isn't a bed you sink into, it cradles the body while distributing weight across the mattress. And the lack of sink means it avoids some of the pitfalls of affordable memory foam beds — like poor temperature regulation. Our testers found the Nectar breathable and although it's not as cool as the Levitex at #10, it doesn't overheat, either.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress delivers a decent performance across the board for those who prefer the feel of foam but don't like being 'trapped' in the bed.
Our review: in more detail
The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress is a close rival of the Zoma (#2) and the DreamCloud (#5), but it distinguishes itself from both by delivering more of the classic 'foam' feel.
This still isn't a memory foam with a deep hug (like the Tempur-Pedic Tempur Hybrid Mattress in our Also Tested), but the upper layers of dynamic foam and memory foam gently contour to the body. Our review panel found it delivered cradling comfort without any sinking.
At the base of the mattress is a dense layer of castellated foam, offering zoned support. This tall layer contributes to the medium-firm feel that our panel enjoyed for back and front sleeping, although user reviews indicate after a long breaking in period, you can expect it to soften up for side sleeping. For immediate side sleeping comfort, opt for the Zoma or Emma Elite (#5).
As an affordable all-foam mattress, we were expecting the Nectar to sleep warm. So we were impressed by the neutral temperature it maintained over night. (Truly hot sleepers should consider upgrading to the Nectar Hybrid in our Also Tested).
The edge support could be improved (here the Zoma has it beat) but the motion isolation is excellent. If you share with a restless partner, the dense foams and versatile feel ensure the Nectar Memory Foam mattress is a top choice.
What we like about it...
✅ Affordable, high-quality build: Nectar is known for offering well built mattresses at a lower price, and the Memory Foam Mattress feels sturdy and durable. It perhaps won't last as long as the Simba Hybrid Ultra (#1), but then again, you're paying a fraction of the price.
✅ Versatile feel: The initial medium firm feel meant our testers recommended this model for front and back sleepers, but give it a few weeks to break in and we expect side sleepers will also sleep soundly on the Nectar.
✅ Excellent motion isolation: We expect all-foam beds to be good at motion isolation and the Nectar Memory Foam doesn't disappoint. Movement is absorbed and trapped to one side of the bed.
What we don't like about it...
❌ The edges are comparatively weak: You might feel as though the mattress is collapsing beneath you when you sit on the side of the Nectar, as the edge support is a definite weak point. In comparison, the edges of the Zoma (#2) are super stable.
❌ Takes a while to break in for side sleepers: While some mattresses, such as the Emma Elite (#5), are comfortable from the start for side sleepers, the foams of the Nectar take a little time to soften.
❌ Lacks bounce: The Nectar Memory Foam isn't a responsive mattress, as it captures and deadens movement. For a bit of bounce, upgrade to the Nectar Hybrid or consider the Lola Cool Hybrid (Also Tested) which has a super responsive feel.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | A good, supportive all-rounder that doesn't have the sink of softer memory foams. Our testers enjoyed the gentle cradling feel. | ★★★★ |
| Pressure relief | Plenty of cushioned relief at the shoulders and hips, but side sleepers might need to warm up to the feel. | ★★★★½ |
| Temperature control | While it's not a 'cool' mattress, it maintains a neutral feel. Better temperature regulation than many all-foam beds. | ★★★★ |
| Motion isolation | Excellent, as the dense foams and lack of bounce capture all movement. We recommend this bed to couples. | ★★★★½ |
| Edge support | Okay, but the sides lack the sturdy support of other mattresses in this guide. | ★★★½ |
| Build quality | A sturdy and reliable build that should last for several years. | ★★★★ |
When, where, and how to buy
Nectar mattress sales have taken an unusual form in recent months. Instead of simple savings, Nectar started offering free bedding bundles or the chance to haggle with a chatbot for a deal.
That doesn't mean that you can't save, just be prepared to argue with an AI. Alternatively, you can sit tight and wait for the straight discount to come round: Nectar typically switches back and forth between the bedding bundle and a money off sale.
During the sale, you can expect to pay £349 for a single, £499 for a double, and £549 for a king (and keep those prices in mind if you have to haggle). These prices tend to stay steady, even though the RRP regularly fluctuates, and we don't expect better savings during the major holidays.
Nectar mattresses are also available from third-party sites, including the Nectar Amazon store. Prices here tend to be the same, but you can sometimes find a better discount. However, you might have to sacrifice some extras. And the extras are a real boon to the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress. You can enjoy a 365-night trial and a lifetime guarantee — those are premium benefits for a mid-range bed.
Nectar was one of the first mattresses I ever tested, and I’ve since recommended it to dozens of sleepers searching for a firmer feeling, affordable memory foam mattress in a box. It also regulates temperature well for an all-foam mattress, so hot sleepers (like me) should feel comfortable on it. I think the Nectar Memory Foam is excellent value for money at £499 this Black Friday and a consistently top ranking mattress in our guide, but an even cheaper option is the Emma Original (see our Also Tested section) at £399 for a double. I prefer the Emma Original for side sleeping (read my Emma Original Mattress review to learn why), but the Nectar is the better all-rounder and it has a better build quality.
Read more: Nectar Mattress review
3. Best luxury mattress
Quick summary
We were blown away by the Relyon Bridgwater Dunlopillo Latex Mattress, awarding it five stars after a thorough testing period. It feels sumptuous, with a pillow top layer that adds an immediate hit of cushioning, plus a finish that wouldn't look out of place in a luxury hotel room.
The Relyon is handcrafted to order and it took five weeks for our model to arrive. But it was worth every moment of the wait. The tufted pillow top delivers sink in softness that's ideal for side sleepers, and you can feel the pressure relief all across the body. Although it's less comfortable for back and side sleepers, which is why we awarded number one to the Simba Hybrid Ultra.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
The Relyon Bridgwater Dunlopillo Latex Mattress earned top marks in all our tests, but a lack of versatility bumps it from our top spot. If you sleep on your side, however, this luxury is hard to beat.
Our review: in more detail
Relyon is a heritage mattress brand, founded in the UK in 1858, and the Bridgwater Dunlopillo Latex Mattress reflects all that experience. In terms of luxurious comfort it rivals the Simba at number one and the Relyon has it beat on price — a double has an RRP of £1,299.
The Relyon Bridgwater Dunlopillo has a build similar to the best hotel mattresses. A tall and sturdy spring layer is topper with multiple layers of foam (including natural and breathable latex), followed with a sumptuous tufted pillow top. One of our testers described it as like lying on a "cloud". At 30cm it's a tall mattress.
It's the pillow top that gives the Relyon it's soft feel, as you sink into the tufted layer. This is great for side sleepers, but back and stomach sleepers might need something firmer. Among the (largely positive) user reviews, softness was the biggest issue. The Simba Earth Escape (#11) looks similarly plush with a firmness for front sleeping.
Once you've sunk through that softness, our testing panel was pleased with the support. The pocketed springs add stability to the bed and prevent movement from traveling. And that strength stretches all the way to edge, as our testers felt comfortable and secure sitting on the sides.
In fact, the Bridgwater impressed us across the board. We gave it five stars for motion isolation, edge support, and temperature regulation. However, it is a mattress with limited appeal. Both the Simba Hybrid Ultra (#1) and the Brook + Wilde Suprema are luxury beds that suit more sleep styles (Also Tested).
What we like about it...
✅ Luxurious, hotel-like finish: The Relyon Bridgwater Dunlopillo Mattress wouldn't look out of place in a five star resort (one of our testers described it as "spa-like").
✅ All-over pressure relief: The soft pillow top is followed by a cashmere comfort layer and two layers of latex. You can feel the pressure relief in every part of the body, particularly when lying on your side.
✅ Cooler feel: Soft mattresses can sometimes hold onto heat, but despite the sink-in feel of the pillow top, the Relyon Bridgwater stays cool. The breathable latex and open springs keep air circulating.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Limited versatility: If you're a side sleeper, the Relyon Bridgwater offers perfect pressure relief and support. But front and back sleepers might find themselves sinking too far into the bed. While no mattress suits everyone, the Brook + Wilde Suprema (Also Tested) comes in three sleep feels.
❌ Average extras: The 100-night sleep trial might not be brilliant, but it's average for a sleep brand. However, the 5-year guarantee is among the shortest in this guide and surprisingly poor for a high-priced bed.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | Super supportive and comfortable for side sleepers, too soft for most back and stomach sleepers. | ★★★★½ |
| Pressure relief | Fantastic full-body relief, although as with support, it might be too soft for stomach sleepers. | ★★★★½ |
| Temperature control | Our testers stayed a comfortable temperature and even the pillow top kept cool on warm nights. | ★★★★★ |
| Motion isolation | Better than the Simba Hybrid Ultra, with the pillow top absorbing restless movement. | ★★★★★ |
| Edge support | Highly supportive all the way to the edges, you can sleep on the side and not risk rolling out. | ★★★★★ |
| Build quality | An exceptional build that looks and feels luxurious, although you'll be waiting a while for your handcrafted mattress. | ★★★★★ |
When, where, and how to buy
The Relyon Bridwater Dunopillo Mattress is available exclusively at Dreams. Dreams operates online and in stores (all located in London) although if you have your eye on the Bridgwater, we recommend calling the store before you visit to check it's in stock.
A single is priced at £1,099, a double at £1,299, and a king at £1,399, and the Relyon Bridgwater is rarely reduced. Expect to pay the full (premium) price. The benefits are lacking, especially for a luxury mattress, with just a 100-night trial and only a 5-year guarantee. While we think the mattress quality is reliable, a longer guarantee would be a bonus.
I’ve just finished sleeping on the 12-layer Simba Earth Apex so I know the difference a great luxury mattress can make to your sleep. My lead tester for the Reylon Bridgwater Dunlopillo Latex Mattress recommends it as a comfortable hotel mattress at home for most sleepers, but she did report that the pillow-top isn’t ideal for people who want a firmer feeling mattress. If that’s you, I recommend the Otty Extra Firm Hybrid Mattress (#8) instead. It’s nearly £690 cheaper for a double in the Black Friday sales too and the warranty is twice as long (10 years versus five at Reylon). Otherwise, if you have the budget and you love sink-in soft pillow-top mattresses with a luxury look, the Relyon Bridgwater has a lot to offer including full body pressure relief and excellent cooling (thanks to latex).
Read more: Relyon Bridgwater Dunlopillo Latex Mattress review
4. The best mattress for side sleepers
Quick summary
The Emma Elite Mattress takes a different approach to comfort, as this hybrid bed features springs, foams, and the Emma AirGrid technology. It's this hyper-elastic polymer layer that has earner the Emma Elite our side sleeper recommendation, thanks to an adaptive comfort that moulds to your body to relieve pressure from head-to-toe.
Our review panel loved the feel of the Emma Elite's AirGrid, as it offers full-body support without a firm feel. Instead, it's as if you're "weightless", somehow lying on top of the mattress while it hugs you at the same time. It's not exactly the foam feel of the Nectar (#4), but it's not a hybrid bounce like the Simba Earth Escape (#11) either. But it is highly breathable, and hot sleepers should find themselves comfortably cool on the Emma Elite. Although stomach sleepers and those with a heavier build should consider a firmer support, such as the REM-Fit 500 Ortho (#7).
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
The AirGrid technology could have been a gimmick, but Emma uses it to create total body contouring that side sleepers will love.
Our review: in more detail
The Emma Elite is a premium mattress from one of the UK's most popular bed brands. At full price, it's comparable to the Relyon Bridgwater Dunlopillo Latex Mattress (#3), although it lacks the sumptuous finish of this luxury bed. On sale, it's a closer rival to the Levitex at #10 (so you might want to wait for a discount).
The Emma Elite stands out thanks to its AirGrid technology. It's the only mattress in this guide to feature this flexible, responsive layer. But that's not the only thing you'll find in the Elite, as this 27cm tall bed also contains layers of pressure relieving foam and a supportive spring base. Our testers loved it for side and back sleepers. Stomach sleepers should seek something firmer, such as the Otty Extra Firm (#8).
So what does this AirGrid do? First and foremost, it bends to meet the body wherever you touch the mattress, creating an adaptive support without any sink. This cradling is comparable to the Nectar (#4), but the Emma Elite has a softer overall feel.
The Grid also allows air to circulate and our testers agree the temperature regulation is excellent. If you're a hot sleeper seeking a softer mattress, the Emma Elite is a top performer. The bouncy feel makes it easy to change positions, but it also absorbs motion well. If you share with a restless partner, you shouldn't feel them move on the Emma Elite.
Support is good across the body, even if it's weak at the edges. For strong edges with a bouncy feel, consider the Zoma (#2). Overall, the Emma Elite is a unique take on comfort that delivers deep pressure relief.
What we like about it...
✅ Immense pressure relief: Side sleepers need cushioned relief at the shoulders, hips, and knees (that's where the body presses into the bed). The Emma Elite delivers that by the bucket, cradling the touch points so you don't wake up with achy arms and numb hips.
✅ Breathable build: The open spaces in the AirGrid (plus the breathable springs) allow for air to easily circulate and cool. Our testing panel stayed a neutral temperature even on warm nights, and the moisture wicking UltraDry cover keeps things fresh.
✅ Absorbs motion well: We awarded the Emma Elite full marks for motion isolation, which is slightly surprising considering this is a bouncy bed. However the AirGrid, combined with dense foams beneath, trap movement before it travels.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Too soft for stomach sleepers: If you lie on your front you probably won't get to enjoy the 'weightless' feel of the Emma Elite, as this soft bed lacks the lumbar support a stomach sleeper needs. The Simba Hybrid Ultra (#1) has better support without a mega firm feel.
❌ The edges are comparatively weak: Support is generally good across the Emma Elite, but our testers found themselves sinking when they sat on the side of the mattress. The all-foam Levitex (#10) earned top marks.
❌ Strong off-gassing lingers: There's a strong off-gassing smell when you unwrap the Emma Elite and it lingers for a while. Not a dealbreaker, but if you have a sensitive nose, the Simba Earth Escape (#11) smelt fresh from the get go.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | A medium-soft mattress, but the supportive base holds the body in alignment. However, it's too soft for most front sleepers. | ★★★★ |
| Pressure relief | Exceptional pressure relief, our testers found the multiple foam layers and AirGrid contour to the body to evenly distribute weight. | ★★★★½ |
| Temperature control | Remains cool overnight, particularly the cover which is chill to the touch. | ★★★★½ |
| Motion isolation | Some of the best motion isolation in this guide, which is particularly surprising considering this is a bouncy bed. | ★★★★★ |
| Edge support | Average with some definite sink at the sides. It's out performed by rival the Relyon Bridgwater. | ★★★½ |
| Build quality | A durable build that should last for several years, although the finish doesn't reflect the premium price. | ★★★★ |
When, where, and how to buy
You can purchase the Emma Elite Mattress online direct from Emma or from third-party retailers. Buying from Emma typically nets you better benefits, including a 10-year guarantee and 200-night trial.
However, while Emma mattress sales are a common occurrence, discounts on the Elite are less frequent. And Emma does have a habit of adjusting the RRP. You might pay as high as £1,389 for a single and £2,049 for a double, but those prices come tumbling down if you shop during a sale. Alternatively, you can sometimes spot better pricing on third-party sites, but you risk sacrificing your extras.
If you are hoping to save on the Elite, it's best to shop during the peak sale periods, such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Emma mattresses are sold in retail stores, but you'll typically only find retail-exclusive models. For the Emma Elite, you have to look online.
I’ve slept on every Emma UK mattress and to me this feels the softest. That means I wouldn’t recommend it to heavy (over 250lbs) back and stomach sleepers, but side sleepers of most shapes and sizes will love the Emma Elite (plus size side sleepers may need to add a firm topper). As a hybrid mattress it has a bouncier feel than the Emma Original, but it’s also much more expensive at £1,024 for a double in the Emma Black Friday sale compared to £399 for the Emma Original. While the Emma Elite isn’t a proper cooling mattress, it quickly wicks away excess body heat (it’s designed with Emma’s AirGrid tech) and sweat. I also rate the hyper-elastic polymer grid and how it flexes with your every move to contour your body, relieving any pressure points. Side sleepers with hip pain will love it.
Read more: Emma Elite Mattress review
5. The best hotel-style mattress
Quick summary
For hotel-like luxury that doesn't break the bank, look to the DreamCloud Hybrid. This upper mid-range mattress pairs thick body-hugging foams with a supportive base, all wrapped in a luxurious looking package.
If you like the sound of the Relyon Bridgwater Dunlopillo Latex Mattress (#3) but it's out of your budget, the DreamCloud is an excellent alternative. For a hybrid. it has an unexpected body-hugging feel, with the top foam layers embracing the body in a way reminiscent of the best memory foam mattresses, such as the Nectar (#4). We recommend it for side sleepers who want cushioned pressure relief and the bouncier feel of a hybrid.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
The DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress delivers luxury for a smaller budget, and with strong results across our testes, it offers excellent value for money.
Our review: in more detail
In terms of price, the DreamCloud is comparable to the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress — in fact, they're both owned by the same brand. For feel, however, the closest comparison to the DreamCloud might be the Relyon Bridgwater, even if this upper mid-range mattress can't deliver the same overall luxury of that premium bed.
However, a quilted cover combined with a "Dream Plush" memory foam layer does give the DreamCloud a similar sink-in pressure relief to the Relyon. Our review team felt the spring layer beneath was softer than other hybrids (such as the REM-Fit 500 Ortho at #7), contributing to the medium-firm feel. The support, however, is still excellent, and our testers found the mattress sturdy all the way to the edges.
The DreamCloud performed well across all our tests. The thick foams absorb motion but not heat, creating a breathable bed we recommend for couples. It's not quite a cooling hybrid on par with the Panda (#9), but it should sleep cool enough for most sleepers.
The design has undergone some minor changes since we tested the DreamCloud. However, we expect the newer DreamCloud to still provide a similar performance.
What we like about it...
✅ Hotel luxury on a budget: Okay, the DreamCloud might not rival the Four Seasons, but we'd award it at least Three Seasons. The finish is impressive and the combination of soft top and supportive base is similar to the beds you'll find in your favorite hotels.
✅ Outstanding pressure relief: The quilted top and memory foam combination gives the DreamCloud Hybrid a softer feel that moulds to the body almost like an all-foam mattress. Our testers loved the "body-hug".
✅ Strong edges: One of our testers was happy using the DreamCloud as a chair, thanks to the sturdy side support. That's good if you like to sit on your bed to get ready or need to push against the mattress to get up in the morning.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Softer support: Our testing panel felt the spring support of the DreamCloud was softer than other hybrids. If you have a bigger build, or you struggle with back pain, look for a hybrid mattress with stronger springs, such as the Simba Earth Escape (#11).
❌ Might need to be broken in: DreamCloud mattresses sometimes require an adjustment period (we certainly found this when reviewing the US version of this model), and might not be as immediately comfortable for side sleepers as the Emma Elite (#5).
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | Excellent support for side sleepers and back sleepers, but front sleepers might need something firmer. | ★★★★ |
| Pressure relief | A sink-in body hugging feel that's similar to an all-foam bed. Excellent cushioning at the touch points. | ★★★★½ |
| Temperature control | Our hot sleeping tester remained a comfortable temperature all night, even if this bed isn't actively cooling. | ★★★★½ |
| Motion isolation | Minimal motion transfer, but the all-foam Nectar does out perform it here. | ★★★★½ |
| Edge support | The reinforced edge spring unit keeps the sides of the mattress as stable and supportive as the centre. | ★★★★½ |
| Build quality | An impeccable finish for an upper mid-range mattress, good enough to rival the premium models in this guide. | ★★★★½ |
When, where, and how to buy
The DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress is only available online direct from DreamCloud. An evergreen DreamCloud Mattress sale ensures you can go ahead and ignore the RRP, as it's never sold at full price.
Expect to pay around £375 for a single, £525 for a double, and £599 for a king. The prices can fluctuate slightly, but they tend to hold steady, even over the major sales days.
DreamCloud has some of the best benefits in this guide (and on the mattress market in general). As well as a forever guarantee, you can also enjoy a 365-night trial. That's a full year to test the bed in your own home to decide if you like it.
If you want a luxury hotel style mattress at home and either don’t have the budget for the Reylon (#3) or think it would be too soft for you, then the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid is my top recommendation. I loved testing it so much that I bought one for my mother, who has been sleeping on it for over a year. She has arthritis in her spine and wrists, plus chronic back pain from her days as an upholstery seamstress bent over a sewing machine. While I found the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid too firm at first, it was the opposite for my mother who said she “walked a little straighter and taller” after just one night on the DreamCloud. The lower back support and pressure relief are very good, but sleepers with chronic back pain who prefer a firm mattress should try the REM-FIT 500 Ortho Hybrid (#7) instead. Overall, the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid is fantastic value at £649 for a double in the DreamCloud Black Friday sale with a lifetime warranty and year’s trial.
Read more: DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid mattress review
6. Best mattress for back pain
Quick summary
Back pain can be a serious sleep disruptor but with the right mattress, you can enjoy better, more restful nights as well as fresher mornings. The REM-Fit 500 Ortho Hybrid Mattress is our top recommendation for sleepers with back pain, thanks to a firm feel and superior support that keeps your spine aligned all night long.
We rated the REM-Fit 500 Ortho eight out of 10 on the firmness scale, which means this is a firm mattress. And you can feel that all the way to the sides — we awarded full marks for edge support. With little in the way of cushioning, you lie on top of this bed rather than sinking in. This helps the lumbar region maintain alignment, although side sleepers might prefer the contoured support of the Levitex Sleep Posture Mattress (#10).
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
If back pain is keeping you up, the REM-Fit 500 Ortho Hybrid Mattress can provide the support your body needs. Just don't expect much cushioning from this firm mattress.
Our review: in more detail
The REM-Fit 500 Ortho Hybrid Mattress has been designed specifically to target back pain. It is an upper mid-range bed, even when on sale, but the price is competitive for a specialist mattress. It's comparable to competitor Levitex and cheaper than the Tempur-Pedic Tempur Hybrid we also recommend for back pain (Also Tested).
REM-Fit rates the 500 Ortho as a nine on the firmness scale, which is close to rock solid. We found it slightly softer than that, giving it an eight out of 10. That's still a firm feel, and while the Ortho 500 does feature two upper layers of comfort foam, the majority of the build is dominated by the firm spring system. For extra firmness, the flippable Otty (#8) has you covered.
There's little give to the 500 Ortho, and our testers found it had hardly any bounce, either. This 'deadened' feel is excellent for motion isolation (we gave it full marks), but if you like some bounce consider the Panda (#9) instead.
Zoned foam, combined with these tall springs, gives the REM-Fit 500 Ortho that highly supportive feel. Our testers found it kept the lumbar region comfortably supported in front and back sleeping positions, but we agree with customer reviews that side sleepers will need more cushioning (the Zoma #2 is a good alternative).
Highly breathable and with edge-to-edge support, the REM-Fit 500 Ortho Hybrid Mattress delivers the back relief it promises, but the firmer feel won't suit everyone.
What we like about it...
✅ Exceptional support for front and back sleepers: Stomach and back sleepers often benefit from a mattress with a firmer feel that holds the body evenly from head-to-toe. The REM-Fit delivers, with sturdy support across the bed.
✅ Keeps spine aligned: If your mattress it too soft, your spine might sink too low, causing uncomfortable back ache. The REM-Fit 500 Ortho is firm across the centre, so your back remains aloft and your spine stays aligned.
✅ Massive size range: Many beds in this guide are available in just four sizes (single, double, king and super king), but the Ortho 500 comes in a massive 10 sizes. Fantastic if your bed frame is a little out of the ordinary.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Lacks cushioning: The foam in the REM-Fit 500 Ortho does gently yield to pressure, but there's none of the hug you get from a softer hybrid like the DreamCloud (#5).
❌ No bounce: Even though springs make up the majority of the 500 Ortho's interior, this mattress has pretty much no bounce. If you like a more responsive feel, consider the Simba Hybrid Ultra (#1) or the Lola (Also Tested).
❌ Too firm for most side sleepers: If you're a heavy weight side sleeper with back pain, the REM-Fit Ortho 500 might be just right. But average to lightweight side sleepers (and lightweight back sleepers) will feel like they're lying on a board. The Levitex (#10) can support the back without the rock hard feeling.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | The support is exceptional across the body for back and stomach sleepers, but too firm for side sleepers. | ★★★★½ |
| Pressure relief | Strong springs help distribute weight evenly while two foam layers add a touch of cushioning to relieve pressure for back and stomach sleepers. | ★★★★ |
| Temperature control | Excellent, capable of maintaining a neutral feel all night thanks to the circulation provided by the spring-heavy design. | ★★★★★ |
| Motion isolation | Superb, performing well in both our drop tests and our hands-on experience. | ★★★★★ |
| Edge support | Stable support all around the mattress ensures you can sleep right up to the edges. | ★★★★★ |
| Build quality | A good build quality that should provide support for several years, third-party durability tested. | ★★★★ |
When, where, and how to buy
REM-Fit mattresses are sold direct from REM-Fit and that appears to be the only place you can buy them online. Regular mattress sales mean you should never have to pay full price for the 500 Ortho, with a single often reduced to £510, a double £626, and a king £659.
We do sometimes see the regular discount increased to 50% off at REM-Fit, but these short-lived sales are infrequent. The best chance to enjoy a bigger saving is around peak sale times, such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
REM-Fit offers a 200-night trial and a 15-year guarantee, which is among the best for mattresses in this guide. Plus, the free delivery service is to the room of your choice — so you don't have to get the bed up the stairs with a bad back.
The DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid is an excellent all-rounder for people with general aches and pains and lower back pain, but it has a medium-firm feel (though it felt much firmer for me during the first couple of weeks of sleeping on it). If you want a properly firm mattress for back pain mattress, my testers highly rate the REM-Fit Ortho 500 Hybrid Mattress. We rate it as an 8/10 on the firmness scale compared to DreamCloud which we rate as a 6.5/10 on the same scale. There’s little give to the REM-Fit Ortho 500, so this is a mattress you sleep on top of rather than sinking into. That also means there’s little contouring here, so the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid is the better choice if you want more of a touch of body-hug comfort with your back pain relief. Price-wise the REM-Fit is the cheaper of the two at £569.50 for a double size this Black Friday (the DreamCloud costs £649 for a double), which is an excellent price for a back pain mattress.
Read more: REM-Fit 500 Ortho Hybrid Mattress review
7. The best cooling mattress
Quick summary
The Panda Hybrid Bamboo uses advanced breathable materials to create a cooler sleep feel (plus a more eco-friendly build). Featuring bamboo infused memory foam, a breathable bamboo cover, and open springs, the Panda Hybrid achieves a cooler sleep feel all night long to take the best cooling spot in this guide.
The Panda Bamboo isn't cheap, but as a specialist bed with cooling technology, that's not surprising. And the Panda isn't all about the cooling. The edge support and motion isolation compare to some of the best in this guide, while the firmer feel provides excellent spinal alignment. It's not as firm as its eco-rival, the Simba Earth Escape at (#11), but lightweight side sleepers might still prefer the Emma Elite (#5) for cooler sleep.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
Harnessing the natural breathability of bamboo, combined with the support of dense memory foam, the Panda Hybrid Bamboo is our top pick cooling mattress.
Our review: in more detail
Cooling mattresses work in a variety of different ways, but the Panda Hybrid Bamboo chooses to harness the natural breathability of bamboo (as does the Otty Pure in our Also Tested section). Bamboo is infused in the memory foam and woven into the cover, to create an overall cooler experience.
During the warm summer in which we tested the Panda Hybrid Bamboo, the mattress maintained a cooler feel all night long. Customer reviews agree, with many praising the temperature regulation in particular.
But the Panda goes beyond cooling. The medium-firm feel delivers excellent spinal support — a dense layer of OrthoAlign foam keeps everything in place — and we found it comfortable in all sleep positions. However, it does lack contouring, so lightweight side sleepers might prefer the Emma Elite (#5).
There is a slight bounciness to the Panda, but we were overall impressed with the motion isolation. An all-foam mattress, like the Zoma at #2, might be slightly better, but we think most bed sharers should be comfortable in the Panda.
The Simba Earth Escape (#11) is a similarly firm eco-friendly mattress at roughly the same price bracket, but the Simba does deliver a more luxurious finish. However, while the Panda looks streamlined and simple, the feel is premium.
What we like about it...
✅ Cooling bamboo build: The Panda Hybrid Bamboo uses bamboo in the foam and the cover to help dissipate heat, while the open springs keep air circulating. We found the temperature regulation fantastic, even during a hot summer.
✅ Impressive spinal support: A layer of OrthoAlign orthopedic grade foam is combined with multi-zoned support springs to keep the lumbar region at a neutral — and pain-free — angle all night.
✅ Luxurious feel: While the Panda Hybrid Bamboo has a streamlined finish, the dense foams give it a luxurious feel that contribute to the overall pressure relief. It feels like a premium mattress.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Long off-gassing period: Our testing panel found it took a week for the off-gassing to disappear. While this bad smell isn't dangerous, it can making going to bed uncomfortable. The Simba Earth Escape (#11) was ready to use right away.
❌ Limited contouring: If you want a mattress that hugs the joints without getting warm, consider the Emma Elite (#5) or the Levitex (#10). The Panda has some contouring, but it's a mattress you lie on top of.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | Hugely supportive, particularly at the lumbar region, and we found it comfortable for all sleep positions. | ★★★★½ |
| Pressure relief | Dense foam provides relief at the touch points but particularly lightweight side sleepers might prefer the softer feel of the Emma Elite. | ★★★★½ |
| Temperature control | Fantastic, even during warm summer nights our testers could sleep cool and wake up feeling refresh. | ★★★★½ |
| Motion isolation | Better than expected, as the firmer surface has a responsive feel. We think most bed sharers should sleep without disruption on the Panda Hybrid Bamboo. | ★★★★½ |
| Edge support | Superb support all around the edges and the corners. We could sit on the side of the mattress without sinking or slipping. | ★★★★½ |
| Build quality | The mattress feels luxurious and the streamlined look is high quality. Customer reviews indicate good durability, so we expect this one to last for several years. | ★★★★½ |
When, where, and how to buy
The Panda Hybrid Bamboo Mattress Pro is sold online. Direct from Panda, a single will cost you £950, a double £1,290, and a king £1,390. The Panda Hybrid Bamboo is sold at other third-party retailers, including the Panda Amazon store, but prices are generally the same no matter where you shop.
There are occasional sales at Panda, but we mean occasional. It's hard to predict when these discounts will occur and they rarely last for very long. Around the major holidays is the best time to find a deal, with sales running as high as up to 20% off. If you don't mind playing the waiting game, you can save on a Panda.
Buying direct from Panda does also get you some top-rate benefits. The 100-night sleep trial and 10-year guarantee might be average, but Panda includes free delivery to a room of your choice plus free old mattress removal.
Overheating in bed can lead to nights of broken sleep, and all that sleep deprivation will in time lead to an array of symptoms including fatigue, brain fog, and irritability. If you’re dealing with night sweats or hot flashes (flushes) then a good cooling mattress should be top of your shopping list. Panda London is arguably best known for its bamboo pillows, but the Hybrid Bamboo Mattress Pro delivers an excellent combination of cooling comfort and support. My lead tester does warn that it’s on the firmer side, so if you want a softer cooling mattress you’re better off with the Emma Elite (#4). The Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pro is slightly cheaper at £903 for a double this Black Friday though (a double Emma Elite is on sale for £1,024).
Read more: Panda Hybrid Bamboo Mattress Pro review
8. The best for hip pain
Quick summary
The Levitex Sleep Posture Mattress is an all-foam bed, but it's not a memory foam. At least, that's according to the founders of Levitex, who created the exclusive Levitex foam used in each mattress to improve sleep posture and avoid the pitfalls of memory foam.
That's a lofty ambition, but our review team agreed that this is one of the best mattresses for joint and back pain (especially if you don't want the super firm feel of the REM-Fot 500 Ortho at #7). The dense high resistance base foam lends the entire bed a supportive feel, while the upper layer of Levitex foam gently yields to pressure to cradle the joints. Our testing team found it comfortable in all sleep positions, although the thinner build (just 20cm) might be too short for heavier side sleepers.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
If your current all-foam mattress is leaving you achy but you don't like the bounce of a hybrid, the Levitex Sleep Posture Mattress is a good alternative that just might help you enjoy healthier sleep habits.
Our review: in more detail
Levitex foam isn't a memory foam — the team behind Levitex is very clear on this. Instead, it's meant to be a responsive foam that reacts to pressure to provide a feel that's firm in some places and soft in others. Our team found the overall feel on the firm side, rating it eight out of 10.
But this still isn't a mattress you lie on top of, unlike the REM-Fit Ortho 500. The Levitex Sleep Posture gently yields at the touch points while evenly distributing weight across the body. Our lightweight tester felt comfortable in all sleep positions, while our heavier tester preferred it for back and side sleeping (although at 20cm, it's quite short for a side sleeper mattress).
The Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Hybrid Elite (Also Tested) has more of a classic foam feel while still delivering quality pressure relief for joint pain. However, one major advantage the Levitex foam has over the Tempur Hybrid is temperature regulation. Even on the hottest summer nights it remained comfortably cool (while Tempur-Pedic beds can sleep hot in winter).
The Levitex Sleep Posture Mattress aims to be a healthier alternative to classic foam beds, like the Nectar (#4). We're not sure we entirely agree with that (the Zoma at #2 is a great alternative for side sleepers with a tighter budget), but we are impressed with the overall performance of the Levitex.
What we like about it...
✅ Gently yields to the touch points: The Levitex foam cradles the body where you press into the mattress to take pressure off the joints without the sinking feeling that can accompany softer beds.
✅ Stays cooler than memory foam competitors: Levitex foam is designed to not be temperature sensitive, with an antimicrobial treatment to keep things fresh. We're not sure exactly how it works, but our testers did sleep cool even in the height of summer.
✅ Strong edge support: Even though this is a thin all-foam mattress, the Levitex is incredibly supportive right the way to the edge. If your joints ache in the morning, the Levitex offers a stable base to sit on as you maneuver out of bed.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Thin build: At just 20cm tall, the Levitex Gravity Defying Mattress is on the thin side. Heavier side sleepers might prefer something thicker, like the Zoma (#2). In addition, the thin build means that despite the upper mid-range price, the Levitex lacks the luxury finish of a bed like the DreamCloud (#6)
❌ Poor extras: The Levitex has some of the worst extras of a mattress in this guide, which is particularly disappointing considering the high price point. The guarantee is just five years, and you only have 44 nights to test the bed. The Nectar (#4) is cheaper with superior benefits.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | Comfortable for a wide range of sleep styles with excellent support at the lumbar region. | ★★★★★ |
| Pressure relief | Responds to pressure to provide tailored relief, with a cradling effect to limit aches and pains. | ★★★★½ |
| Temperature control | Superb temperature regulation, as even in the middle of summer our testers didn't overheat. | ★★★★★ |
| Motion isolation | Excellent and among the best in this guide. A great choice if your bed partner tosses and turns. | ★★★★★ |
| Edge support | Super support all the way to the edges. If aching joints make it hard to move in the morning, the Levitex is a stable base to push against. | ★★★★★ |
| Build quality | The Levitex is well built and we expect it to last for several years, although a longer guarantee would add more peace of mind. | ★★★★ |
When, where, and how to buy
Levitex mattresses are sold online direct from Levitex and from certain third-party sites such as Frasers. Discounts are rare, so you can expect to pay full price for the Sleep Posture mattress. A single has an RRP of £549, a double £759, and a king £899.
We have spotted the occasional sale at Levitex, but they only happen a few times a year and never last long. Even if the saving isn't huge, it's likely to be the best you'll get. Unless you're an avid TikTok user. The Levitex TikTok shop is the best place to find a deal if you're willing to wait for the brand to go live.
We've touched on this above, but the Levitex extras are disappointing. The trial is just 44 days, which is just over the three weeks we recommend spending on a mattress to adapt to it. And at just 5 years, the guarantee is the shortest in this guide.
If you don’t like the quicksand-type feel of traditional memory foam but you also want a contouring, body-hug mattress, the Levitex could be your ideal choice. It’s made from patented Levitex foam developed to help people with joint and back pain to sleep more comfortably. The REM-Fit 500 Ortho tested better amongst our review panel for back pain relief, but it was a very close call between that model and the Levitex Sleep Posture Mattress. The Levitex has a similar firm feel to the REM-Fit (we rate both as an 8/10 on the firmness scale) but crucially it has a bit more ‘give’. So you’ll still sleep on top of the mattress, but you’ll also have a little cushioning comfort to reduce all those painful pressure points. The trial period is shorter 44 nights (REM-Fit offers 200 nights), and it’s more expensive at £759 for a double compared to £569.50 for the REM-Fit this Black Friday. However if you want a mattress that delivers a rare combination of firmness and contouring, then I think the Levitex is worth considering.
Read more: Levitex Sleep Posture Mattress review
9. The best natural mattress
Quick summary
The Simba Earth Escape Mattress is an eco-friendly bed that uses wool, flax, and hemp to create a luxurious sleep experience. Plus a Simba spring base, which utilizes the latest technology to ensure total support that's also better for the environment.
Despite the somewhat unusual material choices, the Simba Earth Escape has a luxurious look to rival the Relyon Bridgwater (#3). The wool-viscose tufted cover has subtle cushioning, but the overall feel is firm — we rated it eight out of 10. But it's plusher than other firm beds, such as the REM-Fit 500 Ortho (#7), giving it slightly more cushioning for back sleepers and heavier side sleepers. Multiple spring layers (including several micro coil layers) ensure excellent lumbar support, but things are a little weaker at the edges.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
The Simba Earth Escape shows you don't have to sacrifice comfort for an eco-friendly build, but side sleepers might think a few layers of memory foam wouldn't go amiss.
Our review: in more detail
The Simba Escape Mattress is from Simba's eco-friendly Earth range, but that doesn't mean this premium mattress has skimped on comfort — or innovation. The complex build features a wool comfort layer followed by two layers of supportive hemp and flax. Next is a layer of micro springs, followed by a slightly taller layer of high carbon steel springs, before a Quadcore spring base made using sonic welding, not glue.
There's a lot going on and that's reflected in the price tag — the Escape is a competitor of the luxurious Relyon Bridgwater. However, our tester found this bed a better choice for stomach and back sleepers than the Relyon. It's firm but with enough cushioning to relieve pressure at the hips and lower back. Side sleepers should opt for the pillow top Relyon or the softer Emma Elite (#5).
The natural build allows for good airflow (these materials have in-built heat wicking properties) and our lead tester never overheated on the Simba. The motion isolation also earned high marks, and while very restless sleepers might benefit from a mattress like the Levitex (#10), most bed sharers should sleep soundly on the Simba Earth Escape.
What we like about it...
✅ Environmentally-friendly build: The Earth range from Simba uses sustainably sourced, eco-conscious materials and processes, including sonic-welded springs and layers of flax, hemp, and wool.
✅ Luxurious finish: The Earth rivals the Relyon Bridgwater and the DreamCloud for sumptuous appeal. It wouldn't look out of place in a five star hotel room and our lead tester was almost disappointed to cover the bed with sheets and pillows.
✅ Excellent lumbar support: Multiple spring layers give the Simba Earth Escape strong support that holds the body in alignment throughout the night, while top cushioning relieves pressure at the hips and lower back.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Not enough cushioning for side sleepers: The surface of the Simba Earth Escape is plush but with limited contouring. Side sleepers should look for a mattress with more give, such as the Emma Elite (#5).
❌ Variable edge support: One of our testing panel with limited mobility found the sides of the Simba Escape unsteady, and didn't feel completely secure sitting on the edges. The Otty Extra Firm (#8), on the other hand, could be used as a chair.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | Hugely supportive from head to toe, with multiple layers of coils keeping the spine in neutral alignments. | ★★★★½ |
| Pressure relief | Incredible pressure relief at the lower back and hips, but less impressive at the shoulders. | ★★★★ |
| Temperature control | Good. The natural materials don't hold onto heat and the bed stays a neutral temperature even in warm weather. | ★★★★ |
| Motion isolation | Strong motion isolation, especially for a hybrid with so many springs. Recommended for couples. | ★★★★½ |
| Edge support | Decent, and should be supportive enough for most people, although there are better options for those with limited mobility. | ★★★★ |
| Build quality | Looks and feel sumptuous and stable, we expect a good longevity, especially if you regularly rotate it (as Simba suggests). | ★★★★★ |
When, where, and how to buy
The Simba Earth Escape Mattress is available direct from Simba online, or from select third-party retailers, such as Next. This is a premium mattress, with an RRP of £1,099 for a single, £1,699 for a double, and £1,999 for a king.
You will sometimes find this mattress discounted in the Simba sales, although the Earth range is occasionally excluded from deals. We expect to see the biggest discount over peak sale days, but be aware that certain sizes are frequently out of stock.
Simba provides a 200-night trial and a 10-year guarantee on the Earth Escape, plus free VIP delivery. This mattress is delivered flat, not rolled like many other beds in this guide. With VIP delivery, the Escape is carried to the room of your choice and installed on the bed frame.
Simba’s Earth range is an excellent addition to the brand’s growing line of mattresses. I’ve recently slept on the most expensive model in the Earth range, the Simba Earth Apex and rate it as one of the best mattresses I’ve ever tested (review coming soon), but my sleep staff writer Ruth slept on and tested the Emma Earth entry-level model. She rates it highly as a fantastic eco-conscious luxury mattress for stomach sleepers. According to Ruth, the “plush tufted top provides deep pressure relief at the hips and lower back while the firmer build keeps your spine supported.” Despite the unusual materials (wool, flax, and hemp aren't your regular mattress filling) the Earth Escape is comfortable from the start, though side sleepers might want a few layers of foam cushioning. For a cheaper hybrid that uses natural materials, I recommend the Panda Hybrid Bamboo Mattress Pro at £903 for a double compared to £1,274 for a double Simba Earth Escape.
Read more: Simba Earth Escape Mattress review
Also tested and recommended
The mattresses below are the highest performers from all the other mattresses we've tested over the last few years. While these mattresses performed well in our tests, they were ultimately beaten by the ones above. But if you can't find the right mattress for you in our main guide, these are worth considering.
Best mattress 2024 review scores: at a glance
| Mattress | Our score | Header Cell - Column 2 | User score | Header Cell - Column 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simba Hybrid Ultra | ★★★★★ | Generated from a two month testing period on a king size. | ★★★★½ | Averaged from over 700 reviews at Simba. No third-party reviews — the Hybrid Ultra is available from limited third-party retailers with no reviews. |
| Zoma Memory Foam | ★★★★½ | Generated from a four week testing period on a king size. | ★★★★½ | Averaged from over 1,200 reviews at Zoma. No third-party reviews available — only sold direct from Zoma. |
| Relyon Bridgwater Dunlopillo Latex | ★★★★★ | Generated from a three week testing period on a super king size. | ★★★★½ | Averaged from over 100 reviews at Dreams. No third-party reviews available — only sold direct from Dreams. |
| Nectar Memory Foam | ★★★★ | Generated from a three-month testing period on a double size. | ★★★★½ | Averaged from over 2,000 reviews at Nectar, plus over 5,000 reviews at Amazon. |
| Emma Elite | ★★★★ | Generated from a three week testing period on a super size. | ★★★★ | Averaged from a handful of reviews at Emma, plus over 30 reviews at MattressNextDay. |
| DreamCloud Hybrid | ★★★★½ | Generated over a five week testing period on a double size. | ★★★★½ | Averaged from over 1,000 reviews at DreamCloud — no third-party reviews currently available. |
| REM-Fit Ortho 500 Hybrid | ★★★★½ | Generated from a three week testing period on a double size. | No reviews available | No reviews available direct from REM-Fit or from third-party sites. |
| Otty Extra Firm Hybrid | ★★★★½ | Generated from a four week testing period on a double size. | ★★★★ | Averaged from over 10,000 reviews on Trustpilot, however, these reviews are for a variety of mattresses / the brand overall. |
| Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pro | ★★★★½ | Generated from a three week testing period on a double size. | ★★★★½ | Averaged from over 14,000 reviews on Panda, plus reviews on Debenhams, Very, and Robert Dyas. |
| Levitex Sleep Posture | ★★★★ | Generated from a six week testing period on a king size bed. | ★★★★★ | Averaged from 70 reviews on Levitex. No third-party reviews are available — only sold direct from Levitex. |
| Simba Earth Escape | ★★★★½ | Generated from a four week testing period on a double size. | ★★★★★ | Averaged from over 20 reviews on Simba. No third=party reviews available — only sold direct from Simba. |
| REM-Fit Hybrid Pocket 1000 | ★★★★ | Generated from.a four week testing period on a double size. | ★★★★ | Averaged from a handful of reviews from Wowcher — limited review information available. |
How we test mattresses
The Tom's Guide mattress review process is editorially independent and not influenced by third parties. To ensure unbiased product recommendations, we test every mattress in several key areas: pressure relief, support and comfort, temperature regulation, edge support, motion isolation, and durability. For each review, our lead tester spends a minimum of three weeks on the mattress, which is roughly how long it takes the body to get used to a new bed.
Comfort and firmness are subjective, so alongside our lead reviewer, each bed mattress is tested by a trusted panel. This panel is made up of people with different body types and sleep styles, to ensure every preference is taken into account.
Our testing team includes side, back, stomach, and combination sleepers, as well as people with different body types. This allows us to get a well-rounded view of how each mattress performs for a variety of people.
We also run a series of objective tests, using weights. We can then compare these results to other mattresses we've tested. In addition, we analyze the public reviews for each mattress, to see how real-world customers are responding. We then rate the mattress out of five, based on the data collected and the performance compared to other mattresses we've reviewed.
You can learn more about our testing process in our mattress methodology. This testing focuses on the following three processes:
- Each mattress is tested across key areas: pressure relief, comfort, support, motion isolation, edge support, and temperature regulation.
- We analyze available user reviews to understand what customers think of the mattress, looking for recurring issues / features to explore in our tests.
- We fact check any support or comfort claims made by the brand.
How to choose the best mattress for you
The guide above contains our favorite mattresses. These are the ones our team have slept on, tested, and loved. But just because we think a mattress is the best doesn't mean it's going to be the right choice for you. So how do you find the perfect mattress?
Our number one piece of advice is to opt for a mattress with a sleep trial. A sleep trial gives you a period of time (typically 100 nights) to test the bed in your own home. If you don't like it, you can send it back for a refund. Some brands charge a small fee for these returns, but many offer it for free. Every bed in this guide includes a sleep trial.
When choosing a mattress, the primary factors to consider are:
- Your sleep position
- Mattress firmness
- Your weight
- Your sleep needs
- Your budget
How you prioritize these factors will depend on your own individual circumstances. If you have no health issues and a tendency to sleep well no matter where you are, a standard bed in a box (within your budget) might suit you fine. But if you often struggle to get a good night's rest, finding the right mattress can transform your sleep.
Sleep position
Sleep position is one of the first things to consider when buying a mattress. There are four common sleep positions: side, back, stomach, and combination (someone who regularly moves between positions). Understanding your sleep position can help you understand what mattress will suit your needs.
- Side sleepers need ample pressure relief at the shoulders, hips, and knees so tend to prefer medium feel mattresses with plenty of contouring. Memory foam mattresses are often a good choice
- Back sleepers benefit from medium-firm mattresses with strong lumbar support. Both hybrid and memory foam mattresses can suit back sleepers, but avoid softer foams.
- Stomach sleepers require strong support at the hips to keep the spine comfortable. Opt for medium to medium-firm mattresses if you have a lighter build, or a medium-firm to firm mattress if you have a heavier build.
- Combination sleepers need a mattress to suit different sleep styles, and medium-firm hybrid and all-foam mattresses tend to be good all rounders. Good motion isolation is another priority, so when you move around you don't wake anyone else in the bed.
Mattress firmness
Mattress firmness refers to how hard or soft a mattress is. We judge it on a scale of one to 10. One refers to a mattress that's marshmallow soft, while 10 is as hard as a rock. These ratings are subjective (weight plays an important role here, which we'll discuss below), so when determining firmness we ask a range of sleepers with different body types and preferences how they experience the bed.
There's no good or bad firmness rating, and no easy answer to the question 'how firm should a mattress be?' Let's take a look at the different firmness ratings and who they benefit:
1 to 3.5 out of 10: These are super soft mattresses that you really sink into. Mattresses this soft are typically best for lightweight side sleepers who enjoy feeling 'hugged' by the bed, but it's important to ensure you're still getting enough support. Excess sink can result in back ache.
4 to 4.5 out of 10: Medium-soft mattresses, these beds have plenty of contouring but shouldn't leave you feeling like you'll fall through the mattress. These mattresses suit side sleepers with light to average builds.
5 to 6.5 out of 10: True medium mattresses that balance contouring with support. Side sleepers and back sleepers can both benefit from a medium mattress and they're also good for bed sharers.
7 to 7.5 out of 10: These medium-firm beds prioritize strong support and often have minimal sink. Good for sleepers with back pain and front sleepers. However, side sleepers might wake up with numb arms on these beds.
8 to 9.5 out of 10: Firm mattresses are often beds you lie on top of, with almost no contouring but plenty of support. They're good for stomach sleepers who need stability at the hips, plus those with a bigger build.
10 out of 10: Extra firm mattresses are rare and rock hard — you might feel like you're sleeping on the floor. Some back and stomach sleepers prefer this type of build, but it's a divisive feel.
Weight
Modern mattresses are typically multi-layered designs. The upper layers are the comfort layers, providing contouring and pressure relief. The base layers contribute to the overall stability and support of the mattress.
Sleepers with a lighter build will often benefit from the extra cushioning of a softer mattress, while those with an average build tend to prefer medium to medium-firm mattresses. Sleepers with a heavier build (over 230lbs), benefit from the superior full-body support of a firm mattress.
Sleep needs
Sleep needs vary from person to person, so it's important to consider what you prioritize in your sleep. Bed sharers should look for a mattress with good motion isolation, which will absorb movement so you can't feel your partner toss and turn.
Hot sleepers need a mattress with cooling features, to help absorb and dissipate heat throughout the night. Sleepers with back pain should consider a bed with enhanced lumbar support, while those with limited mobility can benefit from strong edge support.
The right mattress won't stop insomnia or cure your back pain, but it can help you enjoy comfier rest.
Budget
No matter your budget, it's still important to remember the above factors when choosing your mattress. If you have a tight budget, consider the features that are most important to your sleep needs — whether that's contouring or support or a breathable build — and use that to find a mattress within your price range that's right for your sleep style.
Mattress buying advice
A good mattress can be an investment purchase, and as sleep is essential to our wellbeing, it's important to get it right. Here our team of sleep experts and mattress testers answer all your questions, including what the different types of mattress are, how to find the right mattress for you, and when is the best time to buy a mattress.
What are the different types of mattress?
Mattresses come in many different forms, and there's no singular 'best mattress type'. Below are the most common types of mattress, including mattresses in a box (which come rolled and packed) and traditional flat mattresses:
Memory foam mattresses
Memory foam mattresses consist of multiple layers of polyurethane foams. They're known for their cushioning and pressure relief, with traditional memory foams delivering a 'body hugging' feel. Softer memory foam mattresses are often recommended for side sleepers, but there are firmer memory foam mattresses that offer support for front and back sleepers.
Dense memory foams absorb movement, making them a good choice for bed sharers. However, they can also hold onto heat. If you're a hot sleeper considering an all-foam bed, look for one with specialist cooling tech. Memory foam mattresses are typically cheaper than comparable hybrid bed. Learn more with our guide 'what are memory foam mattresses and are they worth it?'
Hybrid mattresses
A hybrid mattress combines layers of cushioned comfort materials (often memory foam, but sometimes natural materials such as wool or latex) with supportive springs. These springs make hybrid mattresses bouncier and more breathable than all-foam beds.
The bouncy feel makes it easier to move around on a hybrid, but it can be frustrating if you share a bed. The open coils allow for ample air circulation, so hybrid mattresses tend to sleep cooler than foam beds, but they do lack the deep cushioning hug some people look for in a mattress. Hybrid mattresses are typically more expensive than all-foam models.
Innerspring mattresses
Innerspring mattresses use coils to create a bouncy and buoyant feel with plenty of air circulation. These traditional style mattresses are built with either interconnected springs or pocket springs (in which each coil is placed in an individual pocket).
Innerspring mattresses are best for back and stomach sleepers, as they lack the cushioning side sleepers need for pressure relief. These models are becoming less popular, but they are generally budget-friendly beds.
Latex mattresses
The most popular type of organic mattress, latex beds replace polyurethane foams with natural latex foams. These foams are bouncy and breathable with ample support and excellent durability, but without the sink-in feel of a traditional memory foam.
Latex mattresses are typically premium models and can cost several hundred pounds more than similar beds constructed with classic foams. However, as mentioned, latex is known for its durability, so you can potentially get a lot of bang for your buck.
What mattress type is best?
There is no mattress type that's better than the other, as each model can suit a different sleep style — the best mattress for you won't necessarily feel as comfortable for someone else. For this reason, ensure you always get a mattress trial, so you can test the bed over the course of several weeks and see if it's right for you.
With that said, we know from our testing that there are some general trends in comfort. Lightweight side sleepers typically benefit from soft to medium mattresses, often with ample cushioning. People of average body weight (around 130 to 230lbs) tend to prefer medium-firm mattresses, while those with heavier builds should consider firm mattresses.
Where is the best place to buy a mattress?
It used to be unusual to buy a mattress online, but the rise of beds in a box has made it much easier to buy a high-quality mattress online and get it delivered straight to your door. In our experience, the best place to buy a mattress is online, where you can find direct to consumer brands offering excellent prices on beds for every sleep style.
Without the cost of a brick and mortar store, online mattress brands can save money — and this saving is passed onto the consumer. Some sleep brands also take a dual approach, selling the full line up of mattresses online and a few select models in store.
Most online-only mattress brands sell 'mattresses in a box', in which the bed is compressed, wrapped in plastic, and boxed. Once removed from the packaging the mattress will spring back into place and gradually inflate to its full height.However, some brands (including Simba) do sell flat mattresses. Often these beds are sold with white glove delivery, so you can avoid the setup process.
There are also third-party online mattress retailers, where you can sometimes score a better price than shopping direct from the manufacturer. However, in our experience the brand will typically offer superior benefits, such as trial and warranties, plus better after care.
If customer service is a priority, there are definite advantages to shopping in store. While many online mattress retailers offer live chat boxes and phone help, they're not always reliable.
Wherever you choose to buy your mattress, don't forget the sleep trial. A trial period of 30 days minimum allows you to really get to know the mattress, so you know it's going to be right for you.
When is the best time to buy a mattress?
The best time to buy a new mattress is traditionally during the Black Friday sales. This is when we expect to see major discounts from all the best sleep brands and you can often score the lowest prices of the year. Cyber Monday — the Monday after Black Friday — is another good time to pick up a deal.
Other holiday sales events pop up throughout the year, including the Boxing Day sales, Easter sales, and bank holiday savings days. These sales periods aren't quite as major as Black Friday, but they can still be a good chance to get a mattress for less (especially if you need a bed before November).
Most sleep brands run sales regularly throughout the year, although outside Black Friday, we can't always predict when these offers will appear. But if you're looking to save on an online mattress, you're rarely that far away from a discount.
What are the best mattress brands in the UK?
We've tested beds from all the best and most popular brands in the UK, including Simba, Emma, Panda, Nectar, DreamCloud, Eve, and Tempur-Pedic. These brands all offer mattresses to suit a variety of sleep styles and budgets, with regular sales throughout the year.
It's a Simba mattress currently occupying our top spot, and Simba is one of our favorite UK mattress brands (it's also recently expanded to the US). Simba Sleep UK is a B Corp Certified brand and the beds are designed and manufactured in the UK. Simba mattresses come with a 200-night trial and a 10-year guarantee.
How often should you change your mattress?
This guide can help you find a new bed when your old mattress has reached the end of its life — but how often should you replace your mattress? This depends on a number of factors, including the type of mattress. A mattress with a thick supportive base, for example, is likely to last longer then a mattress with thinner support.
How you care for the mattress also effects longevity. Regular cleaning and mattress rotation (if necessary) can prolong the life of your bed. We also recommend investing in a mattress protector. Not only can this improve longevity, but it also makes your bed significantly easier to clean.
A high-quality memory foam mattress can often last for up to 10 years. Memory foam mattresses don't contain springs, so you won't experience the creaking that indicates your hybrid or innerspring bed is past its best. However, memory foam beds can start to sag, and you're likely to notice the temperature regulation and edge support deteriorating with use. Regular rotation can help limit sagging.
Hybrid mattresses, which combine springs and foams, tend to deteriorate slightly quicker than all-foam beds. We recommend replacing a hybrid mattress every eight to 10 years. You might start to hear the problems before you feel it — hybrid mattresses can start to squeak and creak with age. The upper foam layers are also susceptible to sag, but regular rotation can help limit the problem.
Innerspring mattresses have the lowest longevity of all bed types, and will often last around five to seven years. Made entirely from springs, expect to hear some creaking after a few years. Flipping an innerspring mattress every few months can help prolong its lifespan.
Conversely, latex mattresses are the most durable. We expect a latex mattress to last for up to 20 years. Latex foams are naturally dense and durable, less prone to sinking than other forms of foam. However, many latex beds also contain springs, which can wear out faster than the foams.
How much should I spend on a mattress?
At Tom's Guide we think mattresses are an investment that will pay you back with good rest — for that reason, we recommend paying what you can afford for a quality mattress.
It is possible to pick up a good mattress for less than £300 for a double, but expect to make certain concessions. These mattresses typically lack the longevity and comfort of pricier builds. They tend to be best for guest rooms and teenage bedrooms.
Increasing your budget to the mid-range category opens you up to a wider variety of mattresses, made with better quality materials. We consider a mid-range mattress around £400 to £600 for a double, while an upper mid-range mattress can set you back up to £800. Although more money upfront, these beds will typically stay comfortable and supportive for longer.
A premium mattress costs upwards of £800 for a double (and this is where you'll find our top pick, the Simba Hybrid Ultra). These mattresses tend to be the cream of the crop, although a high price tag doesn't necessarily indicate the best mattress for your sleep style.
