Before diving into the world of mattresses, it's crucial to understand your own needs. Do you prefer a soft or firm mattress? Are you a side sleeper, back sleeper, or stomach sleeper? Our guide helps you assess your sleep habits and preferences to narrow down your options.

Not all mattresses are created equal, and understanding the different types is vital. From memory foam to innerspring, hybrid, and latex, below are features of each type to help you choose the one that best matches your comfort needs.

Memory Foam: Best for pressure relief and body contouring, but can trap heat.

Innerspring: Traditional support with bouncy feel and good airflow, but can be less comfortable for pressure relief.

Hybrid: Combines benefits of foam and innerspring, offering both comfort and support, but can be pricey.

Latex: Durable, cool, and hypoallergenic with a bouncy feel, though it can be firm.

Size matters when it comes to mattresses. Whether you're sleeping solo or sharing the bed, our guide provides insights into the various mattress sizes available, ensuring you pick the perfect one for your bedroom and sleeping arrangements. The following are the common mattress sizes, and is always a good idea to check that these dimensions fit your bedroom space:

Single: 92cm  x 188cm

King Single: 107cm  x 204cm

Double: 137cm x 188cm

Queen: 153cm x 204cm

King: 183cm x 204cm 

The materials used in a mattress have a direct impact on its overall comfort, support, and durability. When choosing a mattress, understanding the types of materials it’s made from is crucial, as they influence everything from the feel of the mattress to how long it will last. Mattress materials have evolved over time, with newer innovations adding extra benefits like better temperature regulation, enhanced support, and improved durability. 

Firmness is a subjective factor that varies from person to person. Learn how to assess and select the right firmness level for your mattress, taking into consideration factors like body weight, sleeping position, and personal comfort preferences.

Extra Firm: Very hard, offers maximum support.

Firm Support: Firm with slight cushioning, for solid support.

Balanced Comfort: A mix of plush and firm, a medium comfort good for multiple sleep positions.

Extra Comfort: Soft and plush, best for pressure relief. An extra plush feel.

A mattress is a long-term investment in your well-being, and finding the right balance between quality and budget is essential. Set a reasonable budget to make the most of your investment in a good night's sleep. From our Art & Science Windsor mattress that is great value for kids, teenagers, spare rooms or those on a budget who don't want to compromise quality or support to our Art & Science Ultra Luxe mattress range for those looking for a luxurious night sleep.

Before finalising your purchase, it's crucial to research customer reviews and understand the warranty and return policies. Customer reviews are a valuable source of information because they provide insights from people who have already experienced the mattress firsthand. Reading reviews allows you to gauge the mattress’s comfort, durability, and overall quality. It’s also a good idea to look for reviews from customers who have similar sleep preferences or concerns. A mattress warranty is important because it can save you money if something goes wrong with your mattress after a few years of use. Return policies are another critical aspect to consider before making a mattress purchase. Many mattress companies offer sleep trials, which allow you to test the mattress for a certain period before deciding if it’s right for you, like our Art & Science and Dreamsuite range - it is 100 nights!

In addition to the mattress itself, there are various accessories and add-ons that can complement your sleeping setup. From mattress protectors and toppers to adjustable bed frames and pillows, these additional items have their potential benefits for improving sleep quality and comfort.

While researching online reviews can provide valuable insights, nothing beats firsthand experience and expert recommendations. Consider visiting mattress stores - like Sleeping Giant stores - to test different models and seek advice from sleep experts or chiropractors who can offer personalised recommendations based on your specific needs and preferences.

Investing in the perfect mattress is an investment in your health and well-being. Armed with the information from our comprehensive mattress buying guide, you can confidently navigate the market, avoiding common pitfalls and finding the mattress that brings you the sweetest dreams.

By following our guide, you'll be well on your way to enjoying the comfort and support your body deserves. Don't settle for less when it comes to sleep – embark on your journey to the perfect mattress today!