SWEET DREAMS

Sleep expert Sarah Jones tried and tested fine 10 mattresses

- 

If a good night’s sleep has felt like a distant dream lately, or your bedroom setup is due for a serious refresh, the right mattress can completely transform how you sleep. If you’re not sure where to start, I’m here to help you find the perfect option, whether you sleep on your front, side or back.

With about 10 years of experience in testing mattresses, I’ve tried everything from budget-friendly bed-in-a-box options to luxury hybrids packed with tech. This hands-on experience has taught me what really counts: the perfect mattress should balance comfort with proper support, relieve pressure, and stand the test of time. Features such as motion isolation, edge support, and cooling are also vital - especially if you share your bed or sleep hot. Once you've nailed your mattress choice, the rest of your bedroom setup falls into place, from choosing the best pillows to wrapping up in the best duvets.

After extensive testing (yes, many naps were involved), the Simba hybrid luxe stands out as my top recommendation. With its excellent combination of support, airflow, and next-level comfort, it suits a wide range of sleepers. Simba actually earns multiple spots on this list, which speaks volumes about the brand’s consistency. But don’t worry, I’ve also included fantastic memory foam models, firm and soft picks, and top-rated designs to match different body types, preferences, and budgets.

If you're debating between a full mattress upgrade or simply adding one of the best mattress toppers, Tristine Hargreaves, executive director at Bed Advice UK and The National Bed Federation, offers some helpful insight: “If your mattress has visible signs of wear - like sagging, lumps or dips - and no longer supports your sleep, it’s time to replace it.”