A beautiful bed deserves a mattress that supports you properly. With September bringing the return of early alarms and busier routines, it's a good time to think about how well you're really sleeping. This guide explains the main types of mattress and how to choose the one that's right for you.

Pocket sprung mattresses

In a pocket sprung mattress, each spring is sewn into its own fabric pocket so it moves independently. The mattress responds to the shape of your body, giving targeted support, and you feel less movement when a partner turns over. The open structure also lets air circulate, which helps if you tend to sleep warm.

Our Cashmere Gold and Platinum Wool mattresses are both pocket sprung, with luxurious comfort layers on top.

Memory foam and hybrid mattresses

Memory foam softens with body heat and moulds to your shape, relieving pressure at the shoulders and hips. Many people love the cradled, enveloping feel. A memory foam mattress with springs underneath, often called a hybrid, adds springy support and better airflow.

Our Viscount Memory mattress combines pocket springs with a memory comfort layer for the best of both.

Orthopaedic mattresses

An orthopaedic mattress has a firmer feel, giving more even support across the body. It's often chosen by people who prefer a firm surface or who want a mattress that keeps the spine well aligned. Our Ortho Master is our firmest option.

Orthopaedic doesn't mean uncomfortable. A good firm mattress still has comfort layers on top, so it feels supportive rather than hard.

All our mattresses are made in the UK in six sizes, from single to grande emperor, to fit our upholstered beds exactly. Not sure which size you need? Our beds by size pages show what's available.

Choosing by sleeping position

• Side sleepers usually prefer a medium to medium-soft feel that lets the shoulder and hip sink in slightly, keeping the spine straight.
• Back sleepers tend to suit a medium to medium-firm mattress that supports the lower back.
• Front sleepers often find a firmer mattress stops the hips sinking and straining the lower back.
• Couples with different preferences benefit from pocket springs, which reduce the movement you feel from each other.

When should you replace your mattress?

Most mattresses need replacing every seven to ten years, sooner if they show signs of wear. Look out for dips or lumps, springs you can feel, waking up stiff or achy, or sleeping better in a hotel or guest room than in your own bed.

Regular care helps your mattress last. Rotate it every few months and use a mattress protector. Our bed care guide has more tips.

What to look for

Your questions, answered

Is pocket sprung better than memory foam?

Neither is better for everyone. Pocket sprung mattresses give responsive support and airflow, while memory foam gives a moulded, pressure-relieving feel. Hybrids combine the two.

What firmness mattress should I choose?

Side sleepers usually suit medium or medium-soft, back sleepers medium to medium-firm, and front sleepers firmer mattresses. Personal preference matters too.

How often should I replace my mattress?

Every seven to ten years is a good guide, or sooner if it's sagging, lumpy or you're waking up uncomfortable.

Do I need a special mattress for an ottoman bed?

No, but a mattress of the correct size and a sensible weight works best with a gas-lift base. Read our guide to storage beds for more.

Better sleep, made in Britain.