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- Adjust A Bed
- Dreamland Beds
- Dunlopillo
- Dura Beds
- Harrison Spinks
- Highgrove
- Kaydian
- Millbrook
- Relyon
- Romantica
Shop Mattresses: Complete Buying Guide
Buying a new mattress is one of the most important purchases you'll make. Get it wrong and you could face years of discomfort and disturbed sleep. The right mattress affects everything from back pain to sleep quality, which is why choosing carefully matters.
At FABB BEDS, our experienced staff guide you through the process to find the mattress that suits your body, sleep position, and budget. We stock mattresses in all sizes and support levels, from memory foam to pocket sprung options. Visit our Askern showroom to try before you buy.
Shop Mattresses by Size
Finding the right mattress starts with getting the size right for your bed frame and sleeping needs:
- Small Single Mattresses (2ft 6in x 6ft 3in) - Ideal for children's beds and compact spaces
- Single Mattresses (3ft x 6ft 3in) - Perfect for teenagers, guest rooms, and single adults
- Small Double Mattresses (4ft x 6ft 3in) - Great for compact bedrooms and solo sleepers who want more space
- Double Mattresses (4ft 6in x 6ft 3in) - The UK's most popular size for couples
- King Size Mattresses (5ft x 6ft 6in) - Extra width and length for couples who value comfort
- Super King Size Mattresses (6ft x 6ft 6in) - Maximum sleeping space and luxury comfort
Mattress Size and Room Dimension Guide
| Mattress Size | Dimensions | Minimum Room Size | Ideal For | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Single | 2ft 6in x 6ft 3in (75cm x 190cm) |
8ft x 9ft (2.4m x 2.7m) | Children under 12, box rooms | £150-£400 |
| Single | 3ft x 6ft 3in (90cm x 190cm) |
9ft x 10ft (2.7m x 3m) | Teenagers, guest rooms, single adults | £200-£600 |
| Small Double | 4ft x 6ft 3in (120cm x 190cm) |
10ft x 11ft (3m x 3.3m) | Solo sleepers in compact rooms, occasional couples | £250-£700 |
| Double | 4ft 6in x 6ft 3in (135cm x 190cm) |
10ft x 12ft (3m x 3.6m) | Couples, standard bedrooms | £300-£900 |
| King Size | 5ft x 6ft 6in (150cm x 200cm) |
12ft x 12ft (3.6m x 3.6m) | Couples wanting extra space, taller people | £400-£1200 |
| Super King | 6ft x 6ft 6in (180cm x 200cm) |
13ft x 13ft (4m x 4m) | Master bedrooms, maximum comfort | £500-£2000 |
Compare Mattress Types
Different mattress types suit different sleep preferences, body types, and budgets. Understanding the key differences helps you make the right choice.
| Mattress Type | Best For | How They Work | Key Benefits | Important Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Memory Foam | Pressure relief, motion isolation, side sleepers, joint pain sufferers | Memory foam moulds to your body shape using your body heat, distributing weight evenly and reducing pressure points. When you move, the foam slowly returns to its original shape. Higher density foam typically lasts longer and provides better support. |
• Excellent for reducing pressure on hips and shoulders • Minimal partner disturbance • Hypoallergenic properties • Good for back or joint problems |
Can retain heat (look for cooling gel layers or open-cell foam if you sleep hot). Heavier than other types, making them harder to move or flip. |
| Pocket Sprung | Breathability, responsive support, couples with different body weights, hot sleepers | Individual springs are housed in separate fabric pockets, allowing each spring to move independently. This means the mattress responds to your body shape precisely. Higher spring counts (1000+) generally provide better support and durability. |
• Excellent airflow keeps you cooler • Springs respond quickly when you move • Good edge support • Each side moves independently (minimal partner disturbance) |
Quality varies significantly with spring count and materials. Cheaper models may sag quicker than quality memory foam. Springs can eventually lose tension over time. |
| Orthopaedic | Back support, spinal alignment, people recovering from injury, chronic pain management | Designed with firmer support to keep your spine properly aligned throughout the night. Can be pocket sprung, memory foam, or hybrid construction, but always with enhanced support features. |
• Reduces back pain by maintaining natural spine position • Prevents sagging in the middle • Consistent support across mattress surface • Often recommended by physiotherapists |
"Orthopaedic" is not regulated, so quality varies between manufacturers. Firmness preference is personal, and too firm can be as problematic as too soft. Always test in store. |
| Hybrid | People who want benefits of both springs and foam, combination sleepers, those who can't decide between foam and springs | Combine pocket springs with layers of memory foam or latex. Typically, springs form the support core while foam layers provide comfort and pressure relief on top. |
• Balance of support and comfort • Better temperature regulation than pure memory foam • Good motion isolation • Suits most sleep positions |
Usually more expensive than single-type mattresses. Quality depends on both the spring system and foam layers used. Check the thickness of comfort layers. |
| Open Coil (Traditional) | Budget-conscious buyers, guest rooms, temporary sleeping arrangements | Single wire forms a series of connected springs across the entire mattress. This traditional construction has been used for decades and remains the most economical option. |
• Most affordable mattress type • Widely available • Firm support • Good for people who prefer traditional mattress feel |
Springs are interconnected, so movement transfers across the bed (not ideal for couples). Less durable than pocket sprung options. Tends to sag in the middle quicker than other types. |
Mattress Type Comparison Table
| Mattress Type | Price Range | Lifespan | Best For | Support Level | Temperature | Motion Isolation | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Memory Foam | £300-£1200 | 7-10 years | Side sleepers, pressure relief, joint pain | Medium to Firm | Retains heat (unless cooling gel) | Excellent | Rotate only, spot clean |
| Pocket Sprung | £400-£1500 | 8-10 years | Hot sleepers, couples, responsive support | Medium to Firm | Excellent airflow | Very Good | Rotate and flip (most models) |
| Orthopaedic | £350-£1300 | 7-10 years | Back pain, spinal alignment, firmer support | Firm to Extra Firm | Varies by construction | Good | Depends on type (foam or spring) |
| Hybrid | £500-£2000 | 8-12 years | Combination sleepers, wants both foam and springs | Medium to Medium-Firm | Good (better than pure foam) | Excellent | Rotate only (most models) |
| Open Coil | £150-£500 | 3-5 years | Budget buyers, guest rooms, temporary use | Firm | Good airflow | Poor | Rotate and flip |
Mattress Firmness Guide
Firmness is subjective and depends on your weight, sleep position, and personal preference. Here's a general guide:
Soft (1-3 out of 10): Best for lightweight sleepers under 10 stone and side sleepers who need pressure relief on shoulders and hips. Provides a "hugging" sensation.
Medium (4-6 out of 10): Suits most people and sleep positions. Balances support and comfort. Good for combination sleepers who change position during the night.
Medium-Firm (6-7 out of 10): Popular choice for back sleepers and people who weigh 11-16 stone. Provides good support while still offering some cushioning.
Firm (8-10 out of 10): Best for stomach sleepers, back sleepers, and people over 16 stone. Prevents the hips from sinking too far, maintaining spinal alignment.
Important: Firmness ratings vary between manufacturers. What one brand calls "medium" might feel firm in another brand. Always test mattresses in person when possible.
Firmness Level Comparison by Sleep Position
| Sleep Position | Recommended Firmness | Why This Firmness | Best Mattress Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side Sleeper | Soft to Medium (3-5/10) | Allows shoulders and hips to sink, preventing pressure points | Memory Foam, Soft Pocket Sprung |
| Back Sleeper | Medium to Medium-Firm (5-7/10) | Supports natural spine curve without excessive sinking | Hybrid, Medium Pocket Sprung, Orthopaedic |
| Stomach Sleeper | Firm to Extra Firm (7-9/10) | Prevents hips from sinking and spine from arching | Firm Orthopaedic, Firm Pocket Sprung |
| Combination Sleeper | Medium (5-6/10) | Balances support across multiple positions | Hybrid, Medium Pocket Sprung |
How to Choose the Right Mattress
Consider Your Sleep Position
Side sleepers need softer mattresses with good pressure relief around shoulders and hips. Memory foam or softer pocket sprung options work well.
Back sleepers benefit from medium to medium-firm mattresses that support the natural curve of the spine without letting the lower back sag.
Front sleepers require firmer mattresses to prevent the hips from sinking and the spine from arching unnaturally.
Combination sleepers who move between positions need medium-firm hybrid mattresses that adapt to different sleeping positions.
Factor in Your Body Weight
Lighter sleepers (under 10 stone) typically need softer mattresses to allow adequate contouring. Heavier sleepers (over 16 stone) require firmer, more supportive mattresses to prevent excessive sinking. If you're a couple with different weights, consider a mattress with good motion isolation or two separate mattresses zipped together.
Think About Temperature
Hot sleepers should look for pocket sprung mattresses (best airflow), memory foam with cooling gel technology, or natural materials like latex. Avoid thick memory foam without cooling features. Check for breathable covers with moisture-wicking properties.
Consider Any Health Issues
Back pain sufferers often benefit from medium-firm support, though individual needs vary. Joint pain and arthritis typically require pressure-relieving materials like memory foam. Allergies call for hypoallergenic materials and removable, washable covers. Always consult healthcare professionals for specific medical conditions.
Set a Realistic Budget
You spend a third of your life in bed, making a quality mattress a worthwhile investment. Budget mattresses (under £300) typically last 3-5 years and suit guest rooms or temporary use. Mid-range mattresses (£300-£800) offer 5-8 years of quality sleep with good materials and construction. Premium mattresses (£800+) provide 8-10+ years of superior comfort, durability, and often come with longer guarantees.
Remember that a good mattress improves sleep quality, reduces pain, and can save money long-term compared to replacing cheap mattresses frequently.
Quick Decision Guide: Which Mattress Should I Buy?
| Your Situation | Recommended Mattress | Why |
|---|---|---|
| I sleep hot and wake up sweating | Pocket Sprung or Hybrid with cooling layer | Best airflow and temperature regulation |
| I have chronic back pain | Medium-Firm Orthopaedic or Memory Foam | Proper spinal alignment and pressure relief |
| My partner's movement wakes me up | Memory Foam or Pocket Sprung | Excellent motion isolation |
| I'm on a tight budget (under £300) | Open Coil or Budget Memory Foam | Most affordable options with decent comfort |
| I weigh over 16 stone | Firm Pocket Sprung or Orthopaedic | Better support and durability for heavier weights |
| I have allergies or asthma | Memory Foam with hypoallergenic cover | Resists dust mites and allergens |
| I change position frequently at night | Hybrid or Medium Pocket Sprung | Responsive support for multiple positions |
| I want the longest-lasting mattress | High-quality Pocket Sprung (1500+ springs) | Best durability with proper care (8-12 years) |
| I sleep on my side with shoulder pain | Soft to Medium Memory Foam | Relieves pressure on shoulders and hips |
| This is for a guest room | Medium Pocket Sprung or Budget Hybrid | Suits most guests, good value, durable |
Mattress Care and Maintenance
Proper care extends your mattress's lifespan and maintains hygiene:
Use a mattress protector from day one to guard against spills, stains, and dust mites. Washable protectors are essential and much easier than cleaning the mattress itself.
Rotate regularly. Turn your mattress 180 degrees every three months for the first year, then every six months after. This prevents body impressions forming in one area. Check manufacturer guidance as some mattresses shouldn't be flipped.
Air it out. Strip the bed weekly and leave the mattress uncovered for a few hours to release moisture and keep it fresh.
Vacuum occasionally to remove dust, dead skin, and allergens from the surface. Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
Address spills immediately. Blot (don't rub) with a clean cloth and use appropriate cleaners for the mattress type. Avoid soaking the mattress.
Check the base. Your mattress needs proper support underneath. Slats should be no more than 3 inches apart. A worn divan base can cause a new mattress to sag prematurely.
When to Replace Your Mattress
Most mattresses need replacing every 7-10 years, but watch for these signs you need a new one sooner:
- You wake up with aches and pains that weren't there before
- You sleep better in other beds (hotels, friends' homes)
- Visible sagging, lumps, or worn areas on the mattress surface
- Springs poking through or making noise when you move
- Your mattress is over 8 years old
- Increased allergy symptoms (dust mites accumulate over time)
- You and your partner roll toward the middle of the bed
Why Buy Your Mattress from FABB BEDS?
Expert fitting service: Our experienced staff take time to understand your needs, sleep position, and any pain issues. We'll guide you to suitable options without pushing the most expensive choice.
Try before you buy: Visit our Askern showroom to test different mattress types and firmness levels. Spend proper time lying in your usual sleep position on shortlisted mattresses.
Full range of sizes and types: We stock everything from small single to super king size, and all mattress types from budget-friendly open coil to premium pocket sprung and memory foam options.
Matched bases available: Pair your new mattress with the right base for optimal support and longevity. We can advise on whether you need a new base or if your existing one is suitable.
Local, independent service: We're a family business, not a faceless chain. You'll speak to experienced staff who genuinely want to help you sleep better, not hit sales targets.
Visit Our Showroom
Choosing a mattress based on descriptions alone is difficult. The best way to find your perfect mattress is to visit our Askern showroom, where you can:
- Test different mattress types and firmness levels in person
- Spend as long as you need trying options in your usual sleep position
- Get expert advice based on your specific needs and budget
- See the quality and construction of different mattresses up close
- Ask questions about care, guarantees, and delivery
Call us on 01302 709 655 for expert advice, or visit our showroom to find your perfect mattress.
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