How to choose the right mattress for you, according to a sleep expert

Finding the perfect mattress can feel like an overwhelming task, especially with the sheer number of options available on the market. From varying firmness levels to different materials and sizes, the endless choices can leave even the savviest shopper unsure where to begin.

To provide some much-needed clarity, we turned to Chris Tattersall, Managing Director of Woolroom, the UK’s leading natural sleep specialist, for advice. So, whether you’re looking to enhance your sleep quality, address allergies, or simply enjoy the luxury of a natural sleep environment, here’s everything you need to know when choosing a mattress.

What do I need to know when buying a new mattress?

Firstly, I’d recommend you check the filling of your mattress and always choose mattresses made with natural materials like wool. This is because wool possesses unique and completely natural thermoregulating properties, meaning it will keep you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot.

Choosing a wool mattress will ensure you stay at the optimum temperature throughout the night, making it the perfect all year-round mattress fibre. Woolroom conducted research with Leeds University* which found wool bedding allowed 43% more moisture transmission than polyester and 67% more than feather and down over a typical eight-hour period.

Mattress firmness is also vital for providing the right comfort and support. Mattresses traditionally come in three variations: soft, regular and firm. The firmer the mattress, the more support it will provide you as you sleep but it is important to find a middle ground between support and comfort.

Try to avoid choosing a mattress that is too soft as this will cause your hips and shoulders to pinch in and the spine to curve downwards, putting pressure on joints and muscles that could lead to pain. At the same time, one that is too firm puts unnecessary strain on your shoulders and hips and is unlikely to support the lumbar region of the spine, causing back pain or stiffness, so it’s important to find the right medium.

Should I choose a wool mattress over a memory foam mattress?

Memory foam mattresses have grown in popularity in recent years due to their affordability and convenience. However, their production and disposal are contributing significantly to our mounting plastic waste crisis and contain many toxic chemicals.

The production of synthetic mattresses relies heavily on non-renewable resources and involves energy-intensive processes, releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Additionally, these materials take centuries to decompose, they clog landfills, pollute our oceans, endanger marine life, and threaten our delicate ecosystems worldwide.

Wool, however, is the most natural, sustainable, renewable and biodegradable fibre in existence. Sheep ensure a consistent supply of wool without depleting natural resources and causing irreversible devastation to the environment. 

What kind of mattress is best for me if I suffer from back pain?

Your spinal health is crucial to look after, therefore it’s important to choose a mattress that offers comfort and sufficient support. While there is always the temptation to sink into a softer mattress, this will provide less support in the long run. For sufferers of back pain, I would recommend a slightly firmer mattress with a medium tension. The overall goal is to find a mattress that evenly distributes your weight, offers optimal support, and suits your body’s pressure points.

When do I need a mattress topper?

Mattress toppers are perfect for increasing the longevity of a mattress, and for adding another layer of comfort and support. A wool mattress topper contains all the natural benefits of wool, while adding an extra luxurious layer to your existing mattress, helping you improve your sleep with wool’s temperature regulating and hypoallergenic benefits. Woolroom offers a 100 Night Sleep Trial on its mattresses when purchased alongside a mattress protector to allow piece of mind. 

Rebekah Absalom

For further information, visit Woolroom’s website.