Mattress buying guide

Your choice of mattress will depend on a number of different criteria. The most important factors to think about include:

• the size of those who will be using it, as well as the amount of free space in the room. This will help you to find the correct mattress dimensions;

• foam mattresses (polyether, polyurethane, open-cell or memory foam);

• latex mattresses (natural or synthetic);

• spring mattresses (continuous, bonnell, pocket sprung, etc.).

• your comfort requirements and budget. This is important when it comes to choosing between the different types of mattress, for example:

• the above will also help you to determine the right level of firmness and the number of comfort zones you require from your mattress;

• the thickness of the mattress, which depends on the type of support system you choose (bearing in mind that a thicker mattress is generally more comfortable);

• your personal temperature requirements during seasonal changes, which may mean you opt for a dual sided summer/winter mattress that is more breathable on one side and warmer on the other.

The size of your mattress should naturally be based on the size of those using the bed and the amount of space available in the room. Given that most people roll over approximately 40 times during the night, wider mattresses are recommended as the best way to ensure a good night's sleep:

• When it comes to length, mattresses should measure at least 20 cm longer than the height of the tallest sleeper, which is why the standard mattress length is 190 or 200 cm.

• The standard width, on the other hand, starts at 90 cm for a single sleeper, 140 cm for 2 sleepers and up to 200 cm for a king or super king sized mattress.

• Themost common mattress sizes are: 140 x 190 cm, 160 x 200 cm, 140 x 200 cm, 90 x 200 cm, 180 x 200 cm

The mattress filling quite literally makes up the core of every mattress. It is therefore essential to ensuring you get the best support. There are three main types of mattress to choose from: foam, latex and spring mattresses. You can also find wool mattresses but these are becoming increasingly rare. This decision should be made based on your sleeping habits and needs.

Foam mattresses

This type of mattress can be made of polyether, polyurethane or memory foam. Foam mattresses offer the advantage of being both lightweight and comfortable. Polyether and polyurethane mattresses offer good value for money and come in three different levels of firmness to suit your tastes.

Polyether mattresses

Made from a synthetic honeycomb-structured foam, this type of mattress usually has a low density (between 20 and 35 kg/m3) and a thickness of at least 10 cm. These mattresses come at an affordable price, but, as they do have a limited lifespan, they are best used for spare beds.

Polyurethane mattresses

Polyurethane mattresses offer more elasticity than polyether mattresses and an increased density of around 30 to 50 kg/m3. As such, they are long-lasting and a great option for two sleepers. However, keep in mind that polyurethane foam is very sensitive to humidity.

Memory foam mattresses

Memory foam, also known as visco-elastic foam, is a high-density polyurethane foam (between 50 and 85 kg/m3). As the name suggests, a memory foam mattress responds to temperature in order to conform to the contours of your body and return to its original shape as you move. The higher the density, the more your memory foam mattress will work to support your body.

Recommended for people with back problems, these mattresses also help to promote blood circulation. Additionally, a memory foam mattress absorbs movements to help each sleeper get a good night's sleep. While this material is hypoallergenic, it is not recommended for people who perspire a lot because it does not allow the air to circulate as well as as other materials (such as latex).

Latex mattresses

This type of mattress can be made of natural latex, derived from rubber trees, or synthetic latex which is petroleum-based. Blends are also available; these should ideally contain at least 15-20% natural latex. However, it's worth checking the composition: even '100% natural latex' mattresses can only contain a maximum of 95% natural latex due to manufacturing processes. Bear in mind that as the proportion of natural latex increases, so does the price of the mattress.

With its honeycomb-style structure, a latex mattress offers excellent air circulation, making it perfect for people with allergies and/or for use in a damp room. Particularly elastic, latex mattresses offer enhanced support and can provide several comfort zones.

Spring mattresses

There are a number of different spring technologies, ranging from basic to more advanced. For example, you can choose between continuous, bonnell or pocket springs.

Bonnell spring mattresses

Traditional bonnell, or open coil, springs are less commonly used today. These hourglass-shaped springs are linked together by steel wires. While they do provide great support, they are not the best option for two sleepers using the same mattress. Moreover, they tend to be noisy, less durable and don't adapt to the contours of each sleeper.

Continuous spring mattresses

The structure of these mattresses is made from a single length of wire that is woven into a series of springs. This system offers more even support than classic bonnell (or open coil) springs. The more springs there are, the firmer the mattress support. Another advantage of this system is that it offers superb air circulation and durability. However, it is limited in its ability to create individual sleeping comfort for partners sharing the same bed.

Pocket spring mattresses

This system is great for two sleepers as the springs are all enclosed in their own fabric pocket; this means that each spring moves independently. However, the popularity of this technology is mainly thanks to its ability to provide excellent support and air circulation.

The main disadvantage of pocket spring mattresses is that they can be expensive. However, it's worth weighing this up with their durability and other advantages.

Mattress density or firmness levels

Mattress firmness levels depend on the core material used and its density: the higher the density, the firmer the support. With everything from very soft, soft, medium, firm and very firm, we recommend choosing your level of support according to personal taste and your body type. As a general rule of thumb, the taller and heavier you are, the firmer your mattress should be.

People who suffer from back pain should avoid choosing soft or very soft mattresses. That said, an excessively firm mattress can quickly become uncomfortable and hinder blood circulation. Finally, some mattresses conform to the different needs of two sleepers by combining two different levels of firmness.

Mattress thickness

The thickness of a mattress will vary according to the type you choose. Nevertheless, remember that the thicker the mattress, the more comfortable it is. It's also worth noting that luxury mattresses tend to weigh more, meaning they can be more difficult to transport.

When choosing a foam or latex mattress, we recommend choosing a minimum thickness of 15 cm. When it comes to sprung mattresses, a minimum of 20 cm is recommended and 25 cm is ideal.

Comfort zones

Comfort zones, as the name suggests, are designed to maximise comfort for different areas of your body. A mattress may feature up to seven different support zones:

• head;

• shoulders;

• lower back;

• pelvis;

• thighs;

• legs;

• feet.

If you go for a dual sided summer/winter mattress, keep in mind that one side has a lighter, more breathable ticking (outer mattress cover), while the other has a thicker, warmer ticking.

If the sides are not clearly marked on your mattress, look for the label, which is always sewn on the winter side. For a perfect night's sleep, simply use the winter side starting in autumn and then switch to the summer side in spring.

While it is recommended that you change your bedding every 8 to 10 years, or after about 30,000 hours of sleep, this is only a guide and there are signs that tell you it is time for a new mattress.

1. Does your back, neck and head hurt during the night and/or when you wake up? If so, your mattress no longer suits your body shape.

2. Is your mattress sagging and retaining the imprint of your body? In that case, the mattress is not supporting your spine enough to keep it in a good position and give you a good night's sleep.

3. Do you sneeze as soon as you lie down? Is your nose running and your eyes are irritated? Either dust and dust mites have accumulated in a mattress that is too old, or the materials it is made of no longer suit you and trigger allergies. Either way, it's time to change, ideally to a mattress specifically designed to limit the risk of allergies.

4. Do you wake up when your partner makes the slightest movement? You should change to a mattress that guarantees you independence when sleeping.

5. Do you sweat a lot which affects your sleep? Your mattress is not sufficiently ventilated in this case. It's therefore time to change to a mattress made of natural materials such as cotton or wool, which will also limit the growth of mould and bacteria.

Almost 9 in 10 sleepers suffer from back pain. To avoid this, there are a few things to consider when choosing your mattress.

Comfort

With regards to comfort, don’t hesitate to choose a soft or very supportive mattress which will give you a good night’s sleep and won’t exacerbate your back pain.

Density

The density of your mattress, expressed in kg/m3, should be chosen based on your weight and body shape as it will impact the support and firmness of your mattress. The greater your weight and height, the denser your mattress should be.

Firmness

There is no point in choosing a mattress that is too firm, as this will only accentuate pressure points and, in turn, your back pain. On the other hand, a mattress that is too soft is not recommended either, as it will not support your spine properly. Therefore, a medium-firm mattress is ideal.

Mattress technology

If you want to opt for a foam mattress, choose memory foam, which is recommended for people with back problems. Memory foam reacts to body heat in order to conform to the contours of your body, before returning to its original shape as you move. It also absorbs the movements of each person and encourages blood circulation. 

As for spring mattresses, pocket spring mattresses offer very good support, excellent ventilation and sleeping independence. Latex mattresses also provide good support and ventilation, therefore reducing the risk of allergies. 

Temperature regulation

If you are too hot and sweaty, your sleep will be even more restless, which in turn will increase your back pain. So opt for an airy mattress and natural materials such as cotton or wool, which are temperature-regulating.

Mattress size and sleeping independence

Even if there is not much room in the bedroom, choose a mattress that is the right size for the tallest sleeper and wide enough to avoid being disturbed by the other sleeper. 

Sleeping independence allows you to feel the movements of the other sleeper less.

Comfort zones

Comfort zones allow you to maximise mattress comfort based on different areas of the body, which consequently reduces back pain. There are up to 7 comfort zones to support the head, shoulders, lower back, pelvis, thighs, legs and feet.

What is the difference between comfort and support and how can you be sure that they match your preferences and body shape? 

Comfort

When it comes to comfort, everyone has their own tastes. However, mattress comfort should not be confused with support. Support is based on the core of the mattress and keeps your body in the perfect position, whereas comfort is what you feel when you lie down and depends on the mattress filling. The more filling you have, the softer the mattress will be.

Support in relation to density

Support is just as important when choosing a mattress as it keeps your spine in the right position by not sinking. This guarantees a good night's sleep and prevents back problems.

Anti-dust mite and hypoallergenic mattresses exist for people with allergies. However, some are chemically treated, while others are naturally treated. 

Good hygiene will also help you to fight allergies. For example, remember to air the room every day and vacuum the mattress regularly.

Chemically treated mattresses

Be sure to consider the treatments that mattresses have undergone for them to be deemed anti-mite and anti-bacterial, as they are often treated with chemicals that are harmful to your health and the environment, such as phthalates, insecticides, etc. Moreover, as these treatments have a limited lifespan, mattresses will not retain their anti-dust mite and anti-bacterial properties for several years. 

So check carefully whether the products used to treat your mattress are harmful and how long they last for.

There are also materials that are naturally anti-dust mite and anti-bacterial, such as natural latex (from rubber trees), linen, bamboo fibre, coconut fibre or Tencel® which is derived from eucalyptus fibre.

Anti-allergy certifications

You can also refer to anti-allergy certifications, including:

• The Oeko-Tex Standard 100 anti-allergy certification guarantees that the fabrics used for the mattress and bedding do not contain any of the legally recognised skin and respiratory allergens, or other chemicals.

• The ECARF certification, awarded by the European Allergy Research Foundation, certifies that the mattress’ textile fibres do not contain any of the 26 legally recognised allergens.

• Bed base: the part of the bed that supports the mattress. It can be slatted or sprung.

• Bedding: the term given for anything to do with a bed, bed base, mattress, pillow, bolster, bed linen.

• Bolster: a long, cylindrical cushion.

• Bonnell springs: hourglass-shaped springs linked together by steel wires for dynamic support.

• Comfort: comfort felt when lying on the mattress. The comfort depends on the filling and can be soft, for example.

• Comfort zones: provide different levels of firmness and support (from 1 to 7) to the body.

• Core: provides support for the body. It can be made of foam, latex or springs.

• Density: the higher the density, the better the mattress will hold up over time. It is expressed in Kg/m3.

• Dual sided summer/winter mattress: more breathable in summer and warmer in winter. The mattress label is always on the winter side.

• Filling: the materials (foam, wool, cotton, etc.) that make up the filling of the mattress, duvet or pillow.

• Firmness: support offered by the mattress. This can be soft, firm, medium-firm or extra firm depending on your tastes and body shape.

• Headboard: a decorative piece that also keeps the sleeper warm.

• High resilience foam: foam that quickly adapts to your body shape and then returns to its original shape.

• Latex: natural material from rubber trees or synthetic material from oil. Both can be mixed.

• Mattress: placed on a bed base and has a core and filling.

• Mattress protector: waterproof protection to protect the mattress from any moisture or condensation.

• Mattress topper: improves mattress comfort by providing extra thickness.

• Memory foam: very high density viscoelastic foam that follows the contours of the body.

• Pocket springs: springs that are pocketed in individual bags for better sleeping independence and support.

• Resilience: how a mattress can return to its original shape after pressure being exerted on it.

• Slats: wooden slats that make up a bed base.

• Sleeping independence: the way a mattress can balance out the movements of one sleeper to the other.

• Support: keeps the body in an ideal position and is related to the core of the mattress.

• Ticking: the fabric covering the mattress. It can be made of different materials and treated with antibacterial or anti-dust mite properties.