Pictured: Bensons for Beds iGel Nano Tech 3000i Mattress
What's better: gel or foam cooling mattress?
Gel mattresses typically offer superior temperature regulation because gel actively absorbs and dissipates heat rather than just reducing retention. Gel-infused options conduct heat away through gel beads or layers, often with graphene for up to 12x faster heat transfer. They feel cooler initially and maintain temperature throughout the night.
Cooling foam (open-cell memory foam or latex) allows air circulation, preventing heat traps - effective but generally less cooling, though more affordable. The best solution? Choose a hybrid that combines gel layers with breathable foam and pocket springs.
What to look for when choosing a cooling mattress
When shopping for the best cooling mattress in the UK, here are the key features to look for:
Breathable materials: Look for open-cell memory foam, latex, or hybrid designs that allow air to circulate.
Cooling technology: Gel-infused layers, phase-change fabrics and moisture-wicking covers help dissipate heat.
Firmness level: The best firm cooling mattress provides more surface airflow, while the best soft cooling mattress offers contouring with breathable support.
Support type: Pocket springs promote better airflow than dense foam alone. A cooling hybrid mattress gives you the best of both worlds.
Sleeper needs: Side sleepers may prefer a cushioned top layer—look for the best cooling mattress for side sleepers that still allows airflow.
Budget: Some cooling mattresses can cost upwards of £1,000 for a double, but there are some priced around £400 - £500.
How much cooler is a cooling mattress?
Quality cooling mattresses keep your sleep surface 2 to 3°C cooler than standard options, with variations based on technology.
Gel-infused designs with graphene (like iGel NanoTech) offer up to 12 times faster heat transfer for the most dramatic reduction. Natural materials like wool and latex maintain a 1.5 to 2°C difference, while hybrids typically achieve 2 to 2.5°C.
Even a one to two degree drop significantly improves sleep since your core temperature naturally falls during rest - a heat-dissipating mattress works with your body rather than against it.
Are cooling mattresses good for night sweats?
Yes, they're excellent for night sweats, combining heat-dissipating materials with moisture-wicking covers. Look for gel layers that actively absorb body heat, breathable natural fibres (wool, cotton) for air circulation, moisture-wicking covers (Tencel, bamboo) and pocket springs that create airflow channels.
Menopause-accredited options like Bensons iGel are specifically designed for this issue, addressing the problem at its source rather than just surface treatment.
Which cooling mattress is best for menopause?
Look for menopause-accredited options combining rapid heat dissipation with moisture-wicking materials for hot flushes and night sweats. Avoid traditional memory foam.
What’s the best cooling mattress to buy?
The Bensons for Beds iGel NanoTech 3000i Mattress is our top pick, thanks to its hybrid construction, designed to maximise airflow and keep you cool - even through night sweats.
If you’re after a budget cooling mattress, the Tennyson 4000 Twin Pocket Sprung Orthopaedic Mattress offers 4,000 pocket springs and natural wool and cotton fillings to wick away moisture, delivering firm, orthopaedic support at a plush 30 cm in height.
What size cooling mattress should I buy?
Choose based on bedroom dimensions and sleeping arrangements - go as large as your space and budget allow.
Single sleepers: standard single (90cm) for children/guests, small double (120cm) for adults.
Couples: double (135cm) minimum, though king (150cm) is better if either sleeps hot or tosses frequently - extra space prevents body heat transfer.
Super king (180cm) is ideal for night sweats, offering maximum personal space plus zip-and-link options for different firmness levels per side.
No matter your chosen size, allow 60cm walking space around the bed. Larger sizes with pocket springs offer more surface area for airflow - if you're between sizes and suffering significant night sweats, size up.
What's the best cooling mattress for heavy sleepers?
Heavy sleepers need firmer cooling mattresses with reinforced edges and high spring counts to prevent sagging while maintaining breathability - so, hybrids are typically best.
Look for a minimum of 2,000 to 3,000 pocket springs for robust support without compromising airflow; reinforced edges (like AdvantEdge™) preventing roll-off; medium-firm to firm comfort grades supporting heavier weights without excessive sinking; and gel-infused or graphene layers rather than standard memory foam that retains heat and sags.
Bensons iGel NanoTech 3000i offers 3,000 dual-layer springs with reinforced edges. Hypnos Elite Support provides 1,200 ReActive springs with targeted support.
Just remember: heavier bodies generate more heat, making effective cooling critical. Mattress heights of 28 to 32cm typically provide better support. We'd recommend checking the manufacturer's weight recommendations and warranty terms.
How long do cooling mattresses last?
Quality cooling mattresses last 7 to 10 years with proper care, similar to traditional options. Hybrids with pocket springs last 8 to 10 years as springs maintain support well. Gel-infused memory foam typically lasts seven to nine years as gel effectiveness can diminish.
Natural latex is most durable at 10 to 12 years. Maximise lifespan by rotating every three to six months, using breathable protectors, avoiding sitting on edges and ensuring proper frame support. Most include 7 to 10 year warranties. Replace when you notice sagging over 3cm deep, reduced cooling performance, or new aches and pains.