Which pocket sprung mattress is right for me?
Pick | Dreams Cartmel 1600 Pocket Memory | Wayfair Sleep Murcia Pillow Top | Loaf Top Dog | Harrison Spinks Canterbury 4450 |
Best for | Most people, couples | Budget comfort | Hot sleepers, natural fills | Side sleepers, contouring |
Sleeper type / weight | Back/side, mixed weights | Guests, teens, lighter adults | All sleepers; choose firmness | Side; medium builds |
Runs hot? | Warmer (foam layer) | Neutral | Cooler | Cooler |
Motion isolation | High | Medium | High | High |
Edge support | High | Medium | High | High |
Trial / guarantee | 100‑night / 1 year comfort guarantee* | Not stated / 5‑year warranty | 100 nights / 10 years | No trial / 10 years (typical) |
Two-sided? | No | No | Yes | No (rotate only) |
* Dreams’ comfort guarantee applies to exchanges; check current T&Cs.
\† Hypnos ranges vary - some are double‑sided; check product page.
How do I choose a pocket sprung mattress?
When shopping for a pocket sprung mattress, spring count should be your starting point – aim for at least 1000 springs in a double mattress for decent support (though quality matters more than quantity). Contrary to marketing hype, more springs don't always mean better sleep!
Mark Tremlett, founder of Naturalmat, emphasises the importance of trying before buying: "A big decision you need to make when choosing your mattress is how firm you want it to be, which is also known as mattress tension.
"If you are unsure whether you prefer a firm or soft mattress, the best thing you can do is go and try them. There's no replacement for taking your time and trying them. You're going to spend a lot of time in bed, so it's important you make the right choice!"
Pay attention to the filling materials – natural fibres like wool and cotton regulate temperature better than synthetic alternatives, though they typically command higher prices. Look for a mattress with proper edge support to prevent roll-off, and consider firmness based on your sleeping position: side sleepers typically require softer mattresses that cushion their shoulders and hips, while back and stomach sleepers often prefer firmer support. Whichever you choose, make sure you match it with a pillow that supports your sleeping position — see our guide to the best pillows for side sleepers for neck and shoulder comfort.
Levon Hall, Bed Expert at Bed Kingdom, adds: "Choose a pocket sprung mattress that works with your budget and offers the best comfort, durability, and support for your sleeping position. In general, the more pocket springs, the better, so I'd recommend selecting a mattress with at least 1000 springs.
"Also, consider your sleeping position preference. If you are a back sleeper, a firmer mattress might be better, whereas side sleepers benefit more from a softer feel."
Do I need 1,000, 2,000 or 4,000 springs?
Adrian Brown, Business Director at Bed Store, advises: "When it comes to choosing a pocket sprung mattress, there are a few key things to consider. First, you'll want to think about the spring count. Generally, a higher spring count can mean better support and comfort, as more springs can contour to your body shape. Also, take note of the firmness level that suits you best; some people prefer a softer feel while others like it firmer."
Megan Thompson, Bensons for Beds Buyer, adds: "How many pocket springs does a pocket spring mattress need? As a rule of thumb, the more pocket springs that are contained within a mattress, the more supportive it will be. A higher spring count offers more responsiveness, which means the mattress will better contour to your shape."
In practice, aim for at least 1,000 springs in a double mattress for decent support. Most quality pocket sprung mattresses contain between 1,000 and 2,000 springs. While higher spring counts can offer better contouring, quality of construction and materials matter more than hitting a specific number. You'll see mattresses advertised with 4,000+ springs, but beyond a certain point, the gains become marginal – and you'll pay a premium for those extra coils.