When it comes to buying a mattress there are certain styles and features that shouldn't be overlooked. Avoid buying an old mattress by reading our guide to mattress types and beneficial features. You'll be glad you did.

---

What Mattress Styles Are There?

Latex Foam Mattresses

Latex mattresses are made from a renewable resource, the sap of rubber trees, or a synthetic source. Sometimes, latex foam mattresses can also have a layer of memory foam. Be sure to read the mattress description carefully to see how thick each foam layer is.

Pros: Latex mattresses provide both firm, bouncy support and comfort. Natural latex is also hypoallergenic and provides good circulation, allowing the sleeper to stay cool at night.
Cons: Latex is firm, which is not ideal for those who prefer a soft mattress.

Tip: Consider this mattress if you suffer with back pain while sleeping. A latex mattress topper will also help you sleep soundly.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Made from visco-elastic foam, memory foam mattresses help to reduce stress on the body. The higher the density of foam, the firmer and the more durable the mattress will be. Memory foam can be used in many variations on a mattress: on top of the mattress in place of a pillow top, half memory and half latex foam, and a solid piece of memory foam.

Pros: Memory foam mattresses reduce pressure and relieve any pain you might have by conforming to the sleeper's body as they move throughout the night. These mattress types absorb movement, so your partner will be less able to feel you tossing and turning.
Cons: Memory foam mattresses can feel hot during the night as foam is temperature sensitive. The foam can therefore begin to emit an unpleasant chemical smell.

Tip: Consider this mattress if you can't get comfortable at night and you have chronic pain or fatigue.

Innerspring Mattresses

The most common type, innerspring mattresses use sets of coiled springs to deliver support and comfort. The higher the count of springs in the mattress, the higher the quality (and therefore, most likely, the price). However, the amount of springs isn't the only factor to take into consideration, coil thickness is also important. A springier mattress will have thinner coils, with gauges between 14 and 15.55. (gauge measures the thickness of the coil. The higher the number, the thinner the gauge.) Firmer mattresses use thicker coils, with a gauge of about 12.5.

Pros: These mattress types range in price and in firmness. Innerspring mattresses are also comfortable for almost everyone.
Cons: A lack of springs and/or cushioning will leave your back unsupported, which means you will wake up with an aching back.

Tip: Consider this mattress if you're overweight as spring mattresses can offer firmer support. These mattresses are also great if you have back pain, as firm spring mattresses offer support to aching backs.

What Features Do Mattresses Have?

Look out for some additional features when shopping for a new mattress. Popular features include mattresses that are hypoallergenic and adjustable models.

Pillow Top

A pillow top mattress features a few extra cm of padding sewn onto the top of the mattress, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer mattress.

Hypoallergenic

Hypoallergenic mattresses, such as latex foam models, are best for people who are prone to allergies. This type of mattress keeps out allergens, such as dust mites and mould.

Orthopaedic

For anyone that suffers with back pain or needs to cater to their spinal shape, an orthopaedic mattress is just what you need. These mattresses are designed to help align your spine, giving you a better night's sleep. Read our guide for more on mattresses for back pain.

Cooling

Getting a good amount of Zzz's during hot summers can be tricky. Invest in a mattress with cooling technology to help you sleep better through the heat.

Adjustable

To allow for various sleeping and sitting positions, some mattresses are adjustable.

Tip: To extend the life of a mattress, periodically rotate it from end to end by putting the foot end at the headboard.

Consider Your Sleeping Style

From your sleeping position to whether or not your partner tosses and turns, we will help you determine which mattress is the right one for you based on your lifestyle.

Side Sleepers

Are you a side sleeper? Then look for a cushy mattress that relieves pressure or can disperse pressure while you sleep. Firm mattresses aren't really ideal for your sleeping type. Memory foam mattresses or a mattress with a cushy topper are the better choices as they conform to your shape, relieving pressure.

Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleepers should invest in a dense innerspring or latex mattress as these are the firmest choices. Memory foam may feel smothering for stomach sleepers.

Back Sleepers

A middle of the road firmness mattress is best for back sleepers as it keeps the spine aligned but has some give.

Restless Partners

For those who sleep with a partner prone to tossing and turning in their sleep, a pocketed coil innerspring, memory foam or latex mattress is the best choice as they have ideal motion isolation. However these mattresses have less give, so it will be less comfortable for a restless sleeper.

Ready to shop for your new mattress? Before you begin your search, why not check out these 6 best value mattresses for under £400?