The best mattresses from Emma, Simba and more, tested by experts
We spend about a third of our lives in bed and enjoying a good night’s sleep is crucial to our physical and mental wellbeing. That’s why buying a new mattress is one of the most important purchases you will make.
But it’s not always easy knowing where to start, or which type of mattress – memory foam, spring or both – will give you the comfortable, high-quality sleep you crave. They can be expensive too, which is why the Good Housekeeping Institute is here to help you invest in a mattress that’s truly worth it.
Which is the best mattress on the market?
Already know which type of mattress will suit you? Over 170 testers got napping to test out the market-leaders, while we also surveyed nearly 4,000 Good Housekeeping readers to find out what each mattress is like to sleep on, week in, week out.
Based on their feedback, these are the 14 best mattresses to buy now, but keep scrolling for our full reviews and everything you need to know before you buy.
One of our testers trying out a mattress at home.
How we test mattresses
We do some of the most in-depth mattress testing you'll find on the market. We don’t merely ask one person to try each mattress for a couple of nights and then assign it an arbitrary score. Instead, we enlist the help of a panel of testers to trial each mattress for at least six weeks before reporting back to us in detail about how it impacts their sleep.
They tell us everything, starting with the delivery experience, including how easy it is to move the mattress into place (and indeed rotate), whether it smells when they unbox it and how they found any interactions with customer service.
Next up, we ask about comfort and support. We’re looking for mattresses that help achieve the right spinal alignment, and cushion bodies in all the right places.
We ask about temperature regulation and breathability, as well as motion isolation – whether the mattress moves (or creaks) every time their partner fidgets. Similarly, we ask about edge support and if they feel supported when lying at the very edge of the mattress. We even ask whether it eases any aches or pains.
Of course, we ask what the quality is like at the end of the trial period – including whether testers can feel any springs or dips.
But six weeks alone isn’t enough to see how a mattress is going to perform, night in, night out. So, we also consult our readers, asking them what they like and dislike about their mattresses, to understand how the most popular brands on the market measure up over time in real-world situations. We received 3,829 responses. Every respondent had owned their mattress for at least six months, and gave us their verdict on its comfort, support, durability, value for money and more.
All this feedback is then collated by our Good Housekeeping Institute experts and combined with our first-hand testing reports to award each mattress an overall score. You'll find our detailed verdicts for the most popular mattresses on the market below.
Note that the prices shown are for the standard UK double size.
Legacy Origins III Mattress
Score: 94/100
This is one of the most premium mattresses on our list, and our testers praised the “perfect” level of support and loved its “luxury” feel. The mattress is double sided (so you can flip it to make it last longer) and has multiple layers of pocket springs, moisture wicking, plant-based fibres, and hypoallergenic (and naturally fire resistant) British wool.
It’s all encased in a layer of soft viscose, all of which combines to create a mattress that was quiet and breathable for everyone. Our panel unanimously declared it very comfortable to sleep on too.
As a brand, Hypnos also fared well in our reader survey, with most readers telling us that their mattress kept its high quality over time, was good for back issues, and remained still if their partners fidgeted. In fact, nearly everyone was happy with its comfort over time – a resounding vote of confidence.
Who we’d recommend it for
This is a real all-rounder, so if your budget will stretch, then it’s a dreamy pick, whatever your sleep style. The pocket sprung design is breathable with just the level of cushioning to support our testers in all the right places. One person went so far as describing the mattress as “life changing,” delivering a “brilliant night’s sleep”. Need we say more?
£1809.00 at mattressnextday.co.uk
Standen Wool Mattress
Score: 93/100
Wool is naturally hypoallergenic, temperature regulating, durable and fire resistant. Here, layers upon layers of the stuff (which is traceable and from the UK) surround sturdy pocket springs to make this mattress a supportive, breathable and comfortable hit with our panel.
Testers praised its quality build, and everyone found it fitted their beds snugly. It did smell notably on arrival, and it took a while to go. However, it suited a range of sleep styles, and one tester told us that they “no longer wake up with back ache,” while another declared it the “best mattress I’ve ever slept on”.
As for what our readers think of Woolroom mattresses, it’s a positive picture there too – almost everyone was happy with theirs, finding it suited their sleep style and stayed comfortable over time.
Who we’d recommend it for
Like the Hypnos mattress above, this is a supportive pocket sprung mattress that offers comfort, without the heat that memory foam can bring. Our panel tested the regular tension level, and found it was just right, even for people who would normally opt for a firm mattress.
Hampden Mattress
Score: 92/100
All The White Company’s mattresses are made by Hypnos, so you’re guaranteed the same quality as our popular winner. This is made to order and is filled with a mixture of pocket springs and traceable British wool. There are also layers of latex, cotton, flax, and hemp, and it’s the brand’s “most premium mattress”.
And our panel wasn't disappointed. One tester said it “creates exceptional comfort and support,” and it’s temperature regulating too. Again, another declared it “one of the most comfortable beds I have ever slept on”, and it suited an array of sleeping positions thanks to its medium firmness level. It even converted a tester who wasn’t sure if pocket springs were for them.
It did smell for a little bit, and it’s heavy to move. You can’t vacuum it either. But these aren’t dealbreakers – our panellists barely docked a point for it overall, such was the quality of sleep they enjoyed.
Who we’d recommend it for
Everyone who tried it would recommend this mattress, so if you’re after something premium with five-star comfort, it’s sure to please. It is expensive, but can you put a price on great beauty sleep?
Hybrid Thermosync Mattress
Score: 92/100
Emma has been high on our list of mattress recommendations for years thanks to its popular memory foam designs, and this new iteration lived up to our expectations on test. There are four different layers of foam, plus pocket springs that are split into seven different zones to provide tailored support from head to toe.
Our testers praised its comfortable and supportive cushioning, noting that it was quiet and still when they moved around. Most felt that it regulated their body temperatures well but one hot sleeper didn’t notice a difference either way. Despite this, everyone said they slept like a dream and all planned to keep using the mattress after the testing period.
This is something that was echoed by our readers – most of whom would recommend Emma, and were happy with their mattress, noticing minimal changes over time.
Who we’d recommend it for
This is our highest scoring mattress in a box, making it a practical pick. Panellists loved the way it arrived (although it’s heavy to move) and told us it was easy to unroll and set up.
Plus, we heard from back and side sleepers who loved this mattress. It’s a firmer feel, and it took some of our panel a bit of time to get used to it, so if you like a soft, sink-in bed then it’s probably not quite right. But that wasn’t the case for everyone – we’ll leave you with this review: “I really love this mattress; it was instantly comfortable, and I've had such a good night’s sleep ever since."
Posturepedic Exquisite Essence Medium
Score: 92/100
With its luxurious look and feel, it’s no surprise that our testers scored this hybrid mattress highly. All Sealy’s mattresses are designed with the help of orthopaedic surgeons, and the combination of foam and spring supported our testers during the night. It even helped ease back pain for some.
The foam provided a welcome softness and cushioned our testers without them sinking into it, meaning it suited sleepers of all styles. Not to mention, our panellists told us it was breathable, and stable when their partners moved.
It’s one of the deepest mattresses on our list, so you may need to invest in new sheets. But given one tester told us it made them “look forward to going to bed a bit earlier”, we’d say that’s a compromise worth making.
Who we’d recommend it for
For premium support, you can’t go too far wrong with Sealy’s well-crafted mattresses, which are manufactured here in the UK. And if you think a hybrid mattress is what you need, then this is a stand-out choice – everyone who tried it said they enjoyed a great night’s sleep and would recommend it to friends and family – the ultimate vote of confidence.
£2585.00 at mattressonline.co.uk
Hybrid Pro Mattress
Score: 90/100
A relatively new player in the mattress market, we were intrigued to see how the Origin Hybrid performed. There's a lot that goes into this mattress, including pocket springs and foam, as well as a layer of latex and another of wool (both help with temperature regulation). Finally, it’s all wrapped up in a cooling Tencel cover.
Our panel found it extremely comfortable, enjoying the support provided. The many cooling components impressed too, with testers praising its body temperature regulation; we even received some reports of people sweating less at night.
A couple of panellists found the mattress took some getting used to and it wasn’t firm enough for everyone’s taste. There’s no removable cover either, so we’d recommend investing in a mattress protector to keep it in top condition.
It arrives in a compact box, but note that it doesn’t have handles, so we’d advise opening it in the room you’re going to use it in. You don't need to rotate it, though.
Who we’d recommend it for
This was very quiet at night, so it’s ideal if you or your partner tend to toss and turn a lot. It’s also a good choice if you’re after something cooling. Reassuringly, nearly all the readers we surveyed said they were happy with the comfort of their Origin mattress over time too.
Finally, the company has a raft of sustainability claims, including certifications guaranteeing the absence of harmful substances in its products and a circular partnership with the British Heart Foundation that means all returned mattresses are donated.
£689.00 at originmattress.co.uk
Hybrid Mattress
Score: 89/100
Coming in close behind the Origin mattress above score-wise, this is another outstanding hybrid mattress. Our testers found it a supportive bedroom addition with just the right amount of sink-in comfort. For most, it regulated their temperature at night well and was dreamily quiet, too.
Some of our panellists and readers said dips formed in the mattress over time, although most found this didn’t impact comfort levels or their overall satisfaction, with many confirming they’d turn to Simba again. Regular rotation (but not flipping) would also help alleviate this.
Who we’d recommend it for
Overall, this is a reliable mattress combining foam and springs that most of our testers would happily recommend. It also has some stand-out eco credentials, should that be a priority in your search. Simba is a B Corp, all its mattresses are made in the UK from recyclable materials, and it commits to carbon-neutral delivery, offsetting through donations to environmental causes.
Hybrid Pocket 1000 Mattress
Score: 89/100
As its name suggests, there are 1,000 pocket springs in this mattress, surrounded by open cell foam. And yes, that’s as inviting as it sounds. Our testers raved about the design and the support it offered. One told us it helped to ease their back pain, and another said it was “the most comfortable mattress” they’ve ever slept on thanks to its good weight distribution and snug finish.
It absorbed movement of partners, was temperature regulating and most didn’t notice a smell when it arrived. In fact, everyone said they slept well when trialling it.
Some readers did say their REM FIT mattress changed over time, so be careful to follow rotation guidance, but this didn’t put any of them off the mattress; almost every person we surveyed about the brand was happy with their mattress, and most would buy it again too.
Who we’d recommend it for
This firmer hybrid mattress is relatively good value and should bring plenty of comfort and support to your bedroom. It was praised by front, side and back sleepers on test (no mean feat!), and comes with a 15-year guarantee. However, our panel felt that its solid build means you’re unlikely to need it.
Posturepedic Elevate Ultra
Score: 89/100
This mattress is 30cm deep, making it a great pick if you’re looking for extra height. It has a unique spring system and is topped with foam for the ultimate combination of support and cosiness. Our testers praised its premium design and said it provided a quiet and cool night’s sleep.
Because of its depth, not everyone could fit their sheets onto the new mattress. It’s also heavy, making it tricky to move, and the firmness required some adjusting to for some – however, by the end of the test period, our panel were all fans.
Who we’d recommend it for
This mattress is available in three different firmness levels, and we’ve tested them all, with panel-approved results, so you should be able to find one that suits. It's an investment, but it’s a quality choice.
£1439.95 at mattressonline.co.uk
Team Gold Camborne Combination Mattress
Score: 89/100
A cushioned top layer made of foam and polyester gave this mattress a softness that our testers loved. That doesn’t mean it’s not supportive though; it's rated firm and we were told it eased aches and pains for some and suited all sleepers, whether on their side or back.
Our panel liked the way the foam moulded to their bodies, but some found it warming (although not too hot) and one also noticed some dips forming, so be sure not to forgo the regular rotating recommended.
That said, most readers with a Dreams mattress were happy with how comfortable it remained over time.
Who we’d recommend it for
This should feel like a treat to curl up on – we were told that “lying on it feels like being hugged by a mattress!” For hot sleepers, however, the foam may not be quite right, as our panel was divided on the efficacy of its cooling features.
x House Beautiful Maeve Pillow Top Mattress
Score: 89/100
Like the sound of the Dreams mattress above but don’t want foam? Then you may want to try this mattress designed by the team at House Beautiful, which has a sink-in layer of wool, bamboo and fibre sitting on top of 1500 pocket springs. Testers found it cosy and comfortable, praising the way it remained creak-free and stable despite movement.
Overall, the mattress is still relatively firm, suiting the side sleepers on our panel. It’s deep, and some testers noted a dip in the pillow top. But others declared there was “nothing to dislike,” so as is often the case with mattresses, it all comes down to personal preference.
Who we’d recommend it for
This is a good pick if you want pocket spring support without compromising on that cloud-like sink-in sensation. It ticked our boxes for breathability too.
Hybrid Mattress
Score: 89/100
Max is a new mattress brand to the UK, so this score isn’t adjusted to include feedback from readers on how the mattress stands up over time. We will follow up with our reader panel and update the score accordingly later. For added peace of mind, however, it comes with a 100-night trial and a ten-year warranty.
This is another hybrid mattress and it boasts 2000 pocket springs. One tester said it “feels like heaven” and most found it comfortable and breathable. It’s relatively firm though, which wasn’t quite right for everyone.
Some also noted that it took a while for the mattress to take its shape once it was unpacked. But testers were generally impressed with how well the foam bounced back come morning.
Who we’d recommend it for
Everyone said they’d recommend this mattress and generally liked the height, which wasn’t too shallow or too deep. The firmness was supportive and should suit most people, but several found it too hard, with one suggesting they’d add a mattress topper. So, if you’d like a more cushioned mattress, we suggest trying something else.
Hybrid Luxe
Score: 88/100
If you like the sound of Simba’s eco-credentials (detailed above) and want to treat yourself, then this luxurious mattress in a box comes highly recommended by our panel. It kept them cool, comfortable and well supported, thanks to 6000 springs and a breathable layer of bamboo and wool.
At 31cm, this is one of the deepest mattresses on our list, which has its pros but also means you’ll probably need to invest in new fitted sheets. It’s also worth double checking it will work with your current bed frame. As with the Simba Hybrid, some testers noticed dips over time, although not all were permanent.
Who we’d recommend it for
Testers found the foam cushioned their bodies nicely and liked the added height this mattress brings (thanks to its 11! different layers). It's a good one to opt for if you want to get in and out of bed easily, or if you just want the finest Simba has to offer.
Flip 2 in 1 Mattress
Score: 88/100
Finding the right mattress for growing bodies is no easy feat, which is why Slumberland developed this double-sided design. One side of the pocket spring mattress is soft for younger people, and the other firm. That way your teenager can swap it round as their preferences and needs change with age.
So, what did our panel of young adults think? Well, they were happy sleepers, with most finding it just right. It regulated everyone’s body temperatures, and most said they’d recommend it to friends and family. In fact, some said there was “nothing to dislike”, praising the support and quality.
The parents we spoke to praised it too, but noted that it’s not that lightweight when the time did come to turn it. Luckily, that’s not something you’ll be doing often.
Who we’d recommend it for
Little surprise here, but this one is a great buy if you’re a parent of a teenager looking for a good investment. It’s not cheap, but if you consider the price of buying two mattresses, it would work out at a similar if not better price. And of course it saves you endless faff.
Price listed for a UK Single
£379.99 at bensonsforbeds.co.uk
How do I know if I need a new mattress?
Knowing when you need to change your mattress isn’t always that obvious. So, we spoke to Philippa Warford from the charity Bed Advice about what to look for. “If it’s been over seven to 10 years, and it’s no longer comfortable or as supportive to sleep on as it once was, then it’s probably time to replace it,” she says.
But there’s much more to it than that. “The lifespan of a mattress is influenced by several factors, including its quality, the level of care it receives, and how frequently it's used,” Warford explains. For example, a mattress used nightly for sleeping, reading, or watching TV will wear out faster than one that's only used occasionally as a spare bed.
“Lifestyle changes, such as getting married or moving to a new home, as well as changes in our bodies – like weight fluctuations or ageing – may also necessitate a new mattress,” she adds.
If you suddenly find that you're having trouble sleeping, Warford says it’s worth assessing your mattress as a starting point, not least because, “research indicates that an uncomfortable bed could cost you up to an hour of sleep each night!”
Other factors she notes as signs that it's time for a change include experiencing aches and pains, disturbances if you or a partner move or you roll towards each other unintentionally, if you sleep better when you’re away in different beds and, of course, if the mattress “shows signs of visible wear and tear”.
How do I choose a mattress?
Firstly, let’s talk about size. “We encourage choosing the largest size you can afford and that fits in your space,” Warford says. “A bigger bed can reduce the chances of partner disturbance, and being closer together can create a warmer sleeping environment, which may also affect sleep quality.”
Then comes the most important bit; you need a mattress that's both comfortable and supportive. The problem is that those terms can be quite subjective, varying between brands and largely dependent on how you tend to lie in bed. Soft mattresses aren’t always the most comfortable and firm mattresses aren’t necessarily the most supportive. Not to mention that “there is no industry-wide standard for comparing firmness ratings from different manufacturers,” says Warford.
Therefore, “it's essential to test mattresses of varying firmness levels to determine which one suits you best,” says Warford. Trial periods are particularly helpful here, as are in-store visits and reflecting on comfortable mattresses you’ve slept on when away.
In theory, the best mattress for you is the one that keeps your head, neck, shoulders and back in as straight a line as possible, as if you were standing with good posture. Warford says you should also be able to change position easily.
Your sleep style plays a role in this, so here is a handy breakdown of what you can consider when deciding which level of firmness and filling you need.
Side sleepers
Look for soft to medium firmness. Your hips and shoulders should sink lightly into your mattress to avoid putting too much pressure on your joints. Try a memory foam or hybrid mattress that moulds to the shape of your body and combines both softness and support.
Memory foam mattresses are good for allergy sufferers as they're hypoallergenic. They're also often recommended by chiropractors for back pain. Memory foam's main downside is its lack of breathability, which means you may find yourself getting sweaty in summer. It may also feel slightly claustrophobic when you move to turn over.
Hybrid mattresses have bouncy inner springs and a top layer of memory foam. Some also feature a cooling gel that absorbs and releases your body heat to help regulate your temperature. If you've ever wondered what mattresses hotels use, they're often hybrids. They’re an increasingly popular choice, and you’ll find many of the mattresses below are hybrids.
Back sleepers
Opt for a mattress with medium firmness, made from either pocket springs or memory foam.
There's a quick test you can try to see if your chosen design is supportive enough; lie on the mattress with a pillow behind your head and try to place a hand flat between the mattress and your lower back. If you can slide it in easily then the mattress is probably too hard, but if there's no room for your hand, it's likely too soft. With the ideal mattress, it should be tricky to fit your hand between your back and the bed, but not impossible.
Front sleepers
Choose a firm mattress. You want your body to be as close to the bed as possible, with minimal gapping. Consider a pocket spring or hybrid mattress (the memory foam will protect your hips).
Pocket sprung mattresses feature springs enclosed in individual pockets often filled with natural materials such as wool, cotton, sisal or hair. Each pocket responds independently to the pressure of your body, making you less likely to roll into the centre of the bed or disturb your partner with your movements.
Open spring mattresses are a cheaper variation, but not recommended for two people of vastly differing weights. Your other option to add comfort is to layer a mattress topper over the top. These come in a range of materials, from luxurious goose feather and down to siliconised polyester or quilted cotton-rich fibres.
Additional considerations
Ultimately, Warford says, “it doesn’t matter what type of construction it is, as long as you find the mattress is comfortable and supportive to sleep well.”
But she has two more pieces of advice: “As a general guideline, the heavier you are, the firmer the mattress you will need,” she adds.
“Also, if you have a bad back, this doesn’t necessarily mean you require a hard mattress; again, it's all about finding what feels comfortable and supportive for you.”
How much should I spend on a mattress?
Unfortunately, that's a “how long is a piece of string?” type question, as mattresses vary dramatically in price, from £100 into the thousands. The cost largely depends on size, material and brand.
"Mattresses with natural luxury fillings such as wool, silk and cashmere, or those with deeper layers of foam and more springs, will typically be more expensive than those made with synthetic materials such as polyester,” explains Warford.
“Additionally, latex foam, memory foam and pocket spring mattresses tend to be pricier than those made with open coil, continuous coil or standard foam.”
If you want to have a price range in mind, then £300 to £800 should buy you a good, long-lasting mattress. Browse recognised brands such as Emma, Tempur and Simba and you can’t go too far wrong. As long as you've done your due diligence and it suits your needs, of course!
Is a mattress in a box any good?
Buying a mattress in a box online can be a great option if you’re feeling nervous about parting with your money. That's because mattresses in a box tend to come with 100- to 200-night free trials so you can make sure they deliver the best night's sleep possible.
There are a few on our list, including ones from Emma and Simba. They will arrive at your front door rolled and vacuum-packed in boxes typically measuring around 110cm high.
A trial period isn’t the only benefit of buying your mattress this way; their smaller size makes them better for the environment as it reduces packaging so more can fit onto a transit van, lowering the product’s carbon footprint.
This lowers delivery costs too, so the manufacturer may pass some of that saving onto the consumer, making them slightly more affordable than their traditional high street rivals.
Finally, it's also a good choice if access is an issue and you think you'll struggle to get a traditional mattress around stairwells, for example.
Should I buy a mattress topper or a new mattress?
If you don’t want to splash out on a mattress at the moment, a mattress topper is a good way to boost your bed's comfort levels for less. Depending on the style you opt for, they will offer increased support, or bring an extra touch of softness, helping you sleep more comfortably.
In our Good Housekeeping Institute tests, the Simba Hybrid Essential Mattress Topper and the Simba Hybrid Mattress Topper scored the highest with our panel.
How do you take care of a mattress?
Your mattress should last you at least seven years if you look after it. Each morning, pull back your duvet to let it air. Wash your bed linen weekly and rotate your mattress monthly, or according to the brand's guidelines. Look for a mattress with side handles to make this cumbersome chore easier.
To remove stains, gently sponge your mattress using washing-up liquid and tepid water. For tougher marks, use diluted washing detergent. Ideally, use a washable mattress protector to keep it free from stains, dust mites and dead skin cells. For the ultimate sleep experience, make sure you invest in a good set of pillows, too.
The verdict on mattresses
There’s no one size fits all answer to this. If you want a pocket sprung mattress, then Hypnos emerged as our highest rated with its Origins Legacy III design.
For a hybrid combination of memory foam and pocket spring, however, we suggest opting for the Emma NextGen Cooling Mattress, or the Sealy Posturepedic Exquisite Essence Medium. The Emma option is a mattress in a box too, making it a very practical pick.
None of these come particularly cheap though. In fact, when it comes to mattresses, we recommend holding out for a sale, whichever brand and style you fancy for that all-important shut-eye.
Emma, Simba and REM-Fit all offer big savings regularly, so you can enjoy a premium brand for less.
Why you should trust the Good Housekeeping Institute
Days of testing time and thousands of verdicts from testers at home go into creating our mattress guide. Our homes testing manager, Blossom Boothroyd, oversees everything, collating and analysing the feedback we get, and scoring each mattress according to our rigorous protocols.
Hannah Mendelsohn, our homes editor, then takes this and turns it into the reviews you read here. She is always looking out for the latest and best products we can trial to keep this list up to date and bring you the best deals. Hannah looks after all our sleep guides, so knows a thing or two about what you need for the perfect set-up.
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