This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.
It might seem excessive to spend hundreds or thousands of pounds on a mattress. But look at it this way: We spend nearly a third of our lives asleep, and a good night's rest (or lack thereof) can make or break your day. If you wake up feeling energised and refreshed, concentrating and functioning will be a breeze. On the other hand, if you spend most of your nights tossing and turning, the whole day can feel like a challenge. You’ll be fatigued, irritable, and reaching for the nearest caffeine source.
According to the Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School, sleep deprivation might lead to chronic health problems, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and even depression. We're not messing around when it comes to rest, so if you need to improve your quality of sleep, it might be time for you to ditch your old, unsupportive mattress for a new one that's more in tune with your sleep needs.
Luckily, buying a mattress is now easier than ever, especially with so many online companies selling state-of-the-art mattresses and delivering them straight to your door. Some even come with all the bells and whistles, like memory foam, cooling layers, and anti-wicking fabric, that'll help you rest easy and keep sleepless nights at bay. No matter what mattress type you like, you can now find it online.
But you can’t just settle on any online mattress — it has to meet your specific needs and sleep style. Whether you need to decrease joint stiffness or stay sweat-free at night, there are different mattresses to mitigate each of these issues. The sheer amount of choices can be overwhelming, so if the thought of reading one more mattress review makes you want to chuck your phone against the wall, know this: That's what we're here for. We've read the reviews, compared the models, and have come up with a stellar list.
What size bed should you get?
Don’t play Goldilocks when you’re looking to buy a mattress. If you want to keep the same size bed, take measurements of your current mattress first so you’re prepared to compare models. If a mattress has equivalent dimensions, you’ll know it’s the right fit. If not, skip it and consider your other options. You don’t want to waste time returning or exchanging.
Consider how many people will be sleeping in the bed, too. If you share a bed with a partner or with pets, the bigger the better. With a smaller mattress, you might be woken up every time your significant other rolls over or gets up to use the bathroom. A bigger mattress will ensure you both have the room you need.
Is it better to sleep on a hard or soft mattress?
Do you sleep on your back, on your side, or on your stomach? Knowing your sleeping style is key to buying an online mattress. Some mattresses are extra firm and designed for spine support, while others are made with softer materials for enhanced comfort. Above all else, you want to be super cozy while you catch up on your sleep.
What should you consider when buying a mattress online?
Speak with your doctor first before choosing an online mattress if you're concerned about any existing health issues. If you’re prone to joint pain, you’ll want to opt for a mattress that offers good body support. For overheating issues, choose a mattress with cooling technology. Concerned about your environmental impact? There are even eco-friendly mattresses to minimise your carbon footprint.
Should you consider the warranty of a mattress?
Online mattresses don’t always come cheap, so you’ll want to consider a company’s warranty before making a commitment. Look for warranties that offer flexible coverage and support so you won’t have to spend an arm and a leg for repairs and replacements.
What is the best mattress?
Whether you're all about memory foam or temperature regulation, there are many different types of mattresses out there to meet your sleeping needs. A great night's sleep is not that far away.
These are the best mattresses you can buy online in 2023.
