Mattress buying guide
Discover which is the best mattress for you to get a great night's sleep.
Shop all mattressesWhat size mattress do I need?
All our bed and mattress sizes match up - a double mattress will always fit a double bed. But if you're buying for an older bed, there's a chance they might not. Double-check the standard measurements below.
Shorty (kids) mattress
Standard size:
Length 175cm / 5ft 9in
Width 75cm / 2ft 6in
Small double mattress
Standard size:
Length 190cm / 6ft 3in
Width 120cm / 4ft
European single mattress
Standard size:
Length 200cm / 6ft 6in
Width 90cm / 3ft
What type of mattress is best for me?
Not sure what spring count means? In simple terms it refers to the number of springs a mattress has e.g. 1,000 or 2,000. In general, more springs = better support. But a mattress is more than just the number of springs it has. See explanations for the different types of mattress below.
Open coil mattress
The classic sprung mattress, also known as continuous sprung mattresses. Springs are joined together by a coiled wire which spreads your weight across the surface.
They're great for:
• Moving and turning easily as they're lightweight.
• Providing a good level of support when you sleep.
• Single sleepers who have the bed to themselves.
On the flip side:
• You may feel your partner moving if you share.
• You may roll towards the middle.
• They can be less supportive than other styles.
Pocket sprung mattress
A pocket sprung design has springs woven into individual pockets, meaning they work individually to provide improved support for your body.
They're great for:
• Providing more support than coiled mattresses.
• Supporting partners of different sizes and weights.
• You won't role into the middle.
On the flip side:
• They're heavy and can be hard to turn.
• Typically filled with natural materials which can aggravate allergies.
Memory foam mattress
A memory foam mattress is made from a supportive memory foam base layer, which is then typically topped with an additional comfort layer.
They're great for:
• Holding their shape with no sagging.
• Distributing body weight evenly.
• Allergy sufferers due to being made of hypoallergenic material.
On the flip side:
• They can be quite thick and therefore heavy.
• They retain heat which can make them warmer than other mattresses.
• Tend to have very little to no bounce.
What is a hybrid mattress?
Hybrid mattress
These specially designed mattresses provide the comfort and support features of either a traditional or pocket spring mattresses with an additional layer for better comfort.
They're great for:
Being more supportive, benefiting those with back problems or of larger build due to their stronger structure.
Breathability in comparison to a memory foam mattress, due to the springs allowing the air to flow through them easily.
On the flip side:
They're very heavy and hard to move easily.
You're more likely to feel your partner moving around versus memory foam.
Mattress top materials
Memory foam topped mattress
Memory foam topped mattresses have a layer of temperature-sensitive foam that moulds to the shape of your body while you sleep. They're popular for their great support and ability to relive pressure on joints.
Latex topped mattress
Similar in feel to memory foam, latex topped mattresses also mould around your body. In fact they are considered more responsive than memory foam and a more breathable alternative.
Cooling gel topped mattress
A newer innovation to the mattress market, the top layer is filled with a gel which has a similar feel to memory foam mattresses. The benefit of gel is its cooling properties - so they're a great option if you get hot in bed.
Do you need a soft or firm mattress?
Mattress firmness range from the cushiony soft mattress to the fully supportive firm mattress. They refer to how supported you are when you sleep. We know that getting good quality sleep is really important to keep you feeling healthy and happy - read on to find the best type for your snoozing style.
Soft mattress
Soft mattresses are more cushioned, therefore feeling more luxurious and comfortable. They are better suited to those of a modest build who do not tend to suffer with back problems.
Perfect for - side sleepers
This mattress firmness lets your body sink into them, contouring around your hip, shoulder and arm while you sleep.
Medium-soft mattress
Medium-soft mattresses maintain the comfort of a soft mattress and add in a little more support. They suit people who are of a modest build who don't suffer from back problems, but also who tend to move about in their sleep.
Perfect for - side sleepers
Whilst slightly more supportive, your body will still sink into it and will also feel comfortable around your shoulder, arm and hip.
Medium mattress
Medium mattresses are the most popular customer choice as they offer the comfort of a soft mattress combined with better support. Suited to most body sizes they can also benefit those who suffer with back problems.
Perfect for - back sleepers
Most firmness levels are comfortable for back sleepers as your weight is evenly distributed - but medium is a safe bet.
Medium-firm mattress
Medium-firm mattresses offer a bit of flex but have an extra level of support compared to a medium mattress. These are suited for those who suffer from back problems and are of an average build.
Perfect for - stomach sleepers
The added firmness will support your body as you sleep on your front, making sure your spine is straight, helping to alleviate backaches.
Firm mattress
Firm mattresses have very little flex and offer the most support providing a sturdy sleeping base that is ideal for those who suffer from a bad back and are of above average build.
Perfect for - stomach sleepers
Firm mattresses will prevent your hips from sinking lower than your shoulders, keeping your spine better aligned.
Common mattress conundrums
Suffer with back pain?
Firmer mattresses usually offer the most comfort. Orthopaedic mattresses are designed with this in mind and offer zoned support to pressure points when you lie on your back to minimise aches and pains.
Do you suffer from any allergies?
Specially designed hypoallergenic mattresses are considered best for allergy sufferers. They are often treated with an antibacterial cover technology that helps to reduce allergy triggers by preventing dust mites, mould and bacteria settling into the surface of your mattress.
Sharing with a partner?
Finding a mattress that suits two sleeping styles can be a challenge. A safe bet would be a medium firmness pocket sprung mattress - avoid open coil styles.
Looking for a particular brand?
Mattress reviews - sweet dreams are rated here
Don't just take our word for it, see what our well rested customers make of our mattresses.
Rest easy
Here are some key ways you can look after your mattress.
Turning your mattress
We recommend you rotate your mattress 180 degrees (on the same side) every 3 - 6 months to increase its life. If you have a double sided mattress you can also flip it over every year.
Using a mattress protector
We recommend you use a mattress protector from day one to keep your mattress in top condition and extend its life.
Wrong mattress? Don't lose any sleep over it
Argos Home wants you to get a great night's sleep, and because choosing a mattress shouldn't keep you up all night we're offering a 100 night comfort promise. So if you're not sleeping soundly on your new mattress, you can exchange it within the first 100 days.
Recycle your old mattress
For the safety of our customers and colleagues we have temporarily removed our recycling service.
For further information please see here.
Keep on enjoying Argos care
When faults and accidents happen, it can be an expensive hassle to get a repair or replacement. With Argos Care insurance, you can have peace of mind if the unexpected happens.
Argos monthly care, Breakdown Care, Jewellery & Watch Care and Replacement Care are provided by Domestic & General Insurance PLC. Argos Furniture Care is provided by Acasta European Insurance Company Limited and administered by Castelan limited.