Buying a new mattress is a big investment and whilst many companies now offer a thirty-sixty night sleep trial getting it right first time is always better. We recently bought a new pocket sprung natural fibre mattress. Here are some things we learnt when choosing a new mattress.
#1 Memory foam v's pocket sprung - memory foam can be beneficial for some back problems, however it can make you warm as it retains heat in the foam. We decided on natural fibres such as wool as so many reviews mentioned the strong chemical smell from mattresses when new. Hghly quality memory foam mattresses are made using more ecological procresses however all will emit a small level of VOCs. These have been linked to respiratory problems and other health issues.
Pocket sprung mattresses offer more choice in terms of support can be pillow topped for a luxurious finish. Pocket springs work independently so can offer more targeted support. Its doesn't always work that more springs means better quality though, so here are some other things to consider.
#2 How you sleep - your sleep position can impact the best mattress choice for you. As a side sleeper I need less tension so my shoulders and hips are aligned and the pressure is taken off those areas of the body. If you and your partner have very different needs you could always go for the new Silentnight dual mattress which allows you to have dual firmness.
#3 Do you sit on your bed?- if you like to perch on the ned of frequently sit on the side of it then check the edge support. This also means you can sleep right to the end of the mattress without it collapsing.
#4 Natural Fillers - Natural cotton is used in natural filling mattresses to offer comfort and support while you sleep. Soft and cool, cotton is highly breathable and wicks away moisture for a fresh and dry sleeping surface. Cotton is most commonly found within the top layer of the mattress to offer a cushion of comfort above the mattress springs.
Natural wool is a common filling in natural mattresses. Wool is a breathable filling that keeps you cool during the summer and warm during cold winter nights. Wool is often used as a casing around other mattress fillings to provide a plush and comfortable feel. This natural fabric offers natural fire retardant properties, reducing the use and smell of chemicals in your mattress.
Silk is a natural fibre created by silkworms, spun to produce silk fabric. Silk offers enhanced comfort and moisture control, helping to create a cooler, fresher sleeping environment. This natural comfort filling is used in many luxurious and high-end mattresses.
Bamboo comes from the grass family, Poaceae. Bamboo is typically paired with other comfort materials to form the top layer of the mattress. Bamboo can also form part of the mattress cover. This natural mattress filling is renowned for its natural absorption and moisture-wicking properties, creating a breathable and fresh sleeping surface.
Natural latex is derived from the sap of a rubber tree and is commonly used within the comfort layer of a mattress. A highly responsive and elastic material, latex adapts to body movements as you sleep. Evenly distributing body weight across the mattress surface, it's a great option if you're looking for pressure relief.
Latex can be found within the comfort layer of a mattress, above the mattress springs.
Our top four picks
4. The British Bed Company - The Grand Duke