Black Friday Mattresses UK: What to Check Before You Buy

Check the size, the construction, the firmness and the trial terms before buying a mattress. Match the dimensions to your bed frame, pick a feel that suits how you sleep, and make sure the seller lets you return it. A mattress is only a good buy if you can live with it.

Match the UK bed size

UK sizes run from single to super king, with small double, double and king between. The names are similar to those used elsewhere, but the measurements differ, so rely on the dimensions in the listing rather than the label. Measure your frame, including any slats or a recessed base, and allow for the mattress depth if the frame has side rails.

Mattresses to compare

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Types of mattress

Pocket sprung mattresses use individual springs and tend to feel airy and supportive. Foam and memory foam mattresses contour to the body and suit people who like a hugging feel. Latex is springy and durable, and hybrids combine springs with foam or latex layers.

• Pocket spring: breathable, a traditional feel
• Memory foam: contouring, can feel warm
• Latex: responsive, often heavier to move
• Hybrid: a blend of support and comfort

Boxed mattresses that arrive rolled up need time to expand, so read the unpacking instructions in the listing.

Choosing firmness

Firmness is personal, and the labels differ between makers. Side sleepers often do well with soft to medium, because the shoulders and hips need to sink in. Back sleepers usually prefer medium to firm. If you share a bed, a medium mattress is often a sensible compromise, and some makers offer split firmness options.

Read the description for how the maker defines its scale. A “medium” from one brand can feel firmer than another.

Trials, warranties and returns

Many online mattress sellers offer a home trial, and the terms vary. Check how long the trial lasts, whether you must keep the mattress for a minimum period first, and who pays for collection. Also look at the warranty wording, since sagging is usually defined by a measurable depth. Keep the packaging details and receipts.

Buying from individual sellers

New with tags and unused items from a private seller can be fine, but a used mattress is hard to judge from photos and heavy to return. Look at feedback, check the description, and ask how it was stored. Check the cover and law label are intact. More in the UK mattresses and bedding department.