Best pocket sprung mattresses
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While the market has been flooded with futuristic engineered foam mattresses and hybrid options that combine foam or latex with springs, sometimes simple is best. The likelihood is that most of us have grown up with a pocket sprung mattress and are familiar with their formulation, but whether you've tried a foam mattress and not got along with it, or you want to stick with what you know, this guide is here to help you find your perfect pocket-sprung mattress.
Pocket sprung mattresses are the traditional way of making a mattress and have been around since the 1800s, so with all that time to refine the recipe, it's safe to say that there are some brilliant options out there from some of the top sleep brands. Luxury, UK-based mattress brands are particularly excelling in the field of sprung mattresses.
How House & Garden test the best pocket sprung mattresses
When reviewing the top sprung mattresses, we know how important first hand experience is. That's why, in as many cases as possible, we have thoroughly tried and tested the mattresses over an extended period of time, in order to fully understand the benefits and drawbacks of each one. Eventually, we hope to properly be able to test every single mattress in the guide. Take a look at the criteria we use to evaluate the mattresses below.
To determine how great a pocket sprung mattress is, we first think about initial factors such as price, delivery cost and speed, delivery experience and packaging. Then, how does it look and feel on the outside? With a sprung mattress, the craft that goes into it is much more apparent than in a modern hybrid or foam mattress, due to the hand tufted surface and stitching around the sides. What materials make up the inside, and how many springs are there? We also take into account the different size and tension options available, determining how flexible it will be for different preferences. Over the time of using the mattress, we watch out for whether it dips where we sleep, and how it stands up to the brand's product description, and its price.
Arabella Bowes is the commerce editor at House & Garden, and she has developed a wealth of knowledge and expertise on shopping for sleep and interiors across the past five years. She's tried and tested mattresses from the best brands on the market, and oversees the testing process across the wider team, alongside Tilly Wheeler, who has tested and reviewed everything from duvets and pillows to bedding and mattresses. Joining them is Daphne Bugler who's been writing about sleep and mattresses for the past four years, gaining knowledge from interviewing a range of experts on the subject of sleep, and testing new sleep products herself.
The best pocket sprung mattresses in the UK, from affordable to luxury
A note on our pricing: we have shown the price for a double for all but one of our mattresses, though full sizing and costing details can be shown on each shop's website. The Owen Mattress at the bottom of our guide is the only king size we included, as the multiple tension options are only available for king size and bigger.
Best pocket sprung mattress overall: Naturalmat The Superb Mattress
- Naturalmat's most popular mattress.
- Handmade in Devon with natural materials.
- Lighter side sleepers who find the medium mattresses too firm have a soft choice option, which is rare amongst Naturalmat’s premium competitors.
- When this mattress arrives it may smell of wool but it soon subsides. Some customers love the smell; others are happy when it goes.
- 45 day sleep trial is not as long as some other brands.
- At nearly £2,000 for a double, this is premium quality at a premium price.
| Reviewed by: | Arabella Bowes, commerce editor |
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| Care: | Turn every three months |
| Mattress depth: | 25cm |
| Trial period: | All Naturalmat mattresses comes with a 45 day trial period, whereby you can exchange the mattress for a different product |
| Guarantee: | 10 years |
| Sizes available: | Small single, single, long single, small double, double, queen, king, super king and emperor |
| Type of mattress: | Pocket sprung with natural latex and organic wool |
| Firmness: | It comes in three different firmness levels; we tested medium |
The Superb is Naturalmat's bestselling model, and for a reason. The combination of responsive support from the hand-nested pocket springs, plus organic wool for softness and insulation, and breathable, springy natural latex, is a winning combination for both comfort and sustainability. Other than the natural, renewable materials that they use, and the chemical-free fire safe mattress cover, Naturalmat's eco credentials are further boosted by their ‘Mattress for Life’ initiative, which gives the option of either refurbishing, recycling or donating your mattress at the end of its lifespan, making sure that nothing goes to landfill. Also, the mattresses are delivered in their waterproof, reusable delivery bags, yet another way that Naturalmat is ahead of the curve.
While our tester found the medium tension to be perfect (and this one is probably the right balance for most people), the Superb also comes in soft and firm. The lead time for a Naturalmat mattress is 4-6 weeks, and delivery is free. Make sure to add the old mattress recycling service to your basket if you require your old mattress to be taken away.
There is a 45 day sleep trial, but that is a little shorter than some brands offer. The wool in the mattress may give off a natural smell which should subside after airing out.
Pleased with the ethical principles of the company, the excellent handcrafted quality and the generous option to exchange to a different tension mattress within the trial period, if you feel you've chosen the wrong tension.
| Reviewed by: | Laura Normanton, executive editor |
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| Care: | The mattress is double-sided and should be rotated and flipped over with the seasons. |
| Mattress depth: | 36cm for the super king |
| Trial period: | All Button & Sprung mattresses come with a 100 night trial to exchange or return your mattress for a full refund. |
| Guarantee: | 10 years |
| Sizes available: | Single, small double, double, king, European king, super king, emperor and bespoke sizes are available on request. Also available in a zip and link in a king, super king and emperor size which is very handy for access. |
| Type of mattress: | Pocket sprung mattress with 24,075 springs in the double size. |
| Firmness: | Available in two levels of support: medium soft or medium tension. |
For the ultimate in luxury when it comes to pocket sprung mattresses, it's hard to find a better brand than Button & Sprung. Similarly to Naturalmat, their mattresses are handmade in the UK (in Yorkshire), with a combination of pocket springs and natural materials to aid comfort and support at night. The natural fillings in this particular mattress are: cashmere, silk, mohair, Egyptian cotton, Herdwick wool, hemp, flax, and cotton.
Our reviewer quickly noticed the myriad benefits of the Wensleydale: 'after a few weeks of using this mattress at home, I'm sleeping a lot better, waking less at night and not tossing and turning as much. It has been the best investment for my sleep and also for my sensitive back. My partner, who is a front sleeper and therefore is used to a firmer mattress, also finds it amazing. As an added bonus, the sheer number of springs means that every movement is absorbed so I don't notice my partner turning over in the night.
An ingenious feature of this mattress (and something which is a little rarer in the world of sprung mattresses) is that it is double sided, with a more insulating side with wool and cashmere for winter, and a cooling side for summer, that includes cotton and mohair. It also comes in two different tensions, medium or medium-soft.
Within a 65 mile radius of the Battersea showroom, delivery is free. However, the further out you live from this radius, the delivery charges go up.
Soft and squishy yet gently supportive.
For a more detailed review, check out our Button & Sprung mattress review: is it worth buying?
Best affordable pocket sprung mattress: John Lewis, Ortho Pocket Collection 1400 Pocket Spring Mattress
- Extra-firm tension with 1,400 zoned pocket springs helps maintain perfect alignment, making it a strong choice for heavier sleepers and those with back pain
- Recycled polyester comfort layer wicks away moisture and improves airflow for a fresher, more comfortable night’s sleep
- Enjoy a 60-night trial to make sure that an extra-firm mattress is right for you
- Sleepers who prefer a softer, more cushioned feel may find the extra-firm tension too unyielding
- Unlike some premium brands, no mixed-tension option is available for couples with different firmness preferences
- Should the tension be too firm, you may have to invest in a mattress topper to make the surface more cushioning
| John Lewis, Ortho Pocket Collection 1400 Pocket Spring Mattress | |
|---|---|
| Care: | No need turn, rotate only |
| Mattress depth: | 26cm |
| Trial period: | 60 nights |
| Guarantee: | 7 years |
| Sizes available: | Double, king, super king |
| Type of mattress: | Pocket sprung |
| Firmness: | Extra firm |
| Delivery: | Free delivery |
Ever-reliable high street favourite John Lewis is a great place to head for a more affordable traditional mattress without compromising on quality and comfort. This is an extra firm mattress, so is a great option for those who struggle with back pain and need a touch more support, or just prefer a firmer surface to sleep on. While this mattress won't offer the same level of luxury as some others on our list, it does have 1,400 zoned pocket springs to aid spinal alignment and support. Another great aspect is that although this is a more budget mattress, it is still made to order in the UK, and is fully recyclable once you no longer have use for it.
Delivery timeframe is not immediately apparent online, as it says from 3 days but this seems unlikely if the mattress is being handmade to order. Use of synthetic materials like polyester may put some people off.
Really helps with back pain, great price and impressed by the level of quality.
| Reviewed by: | Tilly Wheeler, commerce writer |
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| Care: | The mattress is double-sided and should be rotated and flipped over with the seasons. |
| Mattress depth: | 38cm |
| Trial period: | All Button & Sprung mattresses come with a 100 night trial to exchange or return your mattress for a full refund. |
| Guarantee: | 10 years |
| Sizes available: | Single, small double, double, king, European king, super king, emperor and bespoke sizes are available on request. Also available in a zip and link in super king and emperor size. |
| Type of mattress: | Pocket sprung mattress with 16,875 springs in the double size, with other natural fillings. |
| Firmness: | Available in two levels of support: firm or extra firm tension. |
Having unpacked and tested this mattress out, we can attest to the impressively plush, traditional look and feel of this mattress. It has a classic style thanks to the tufts across the mattress surface, which help to keep all the layers aligned and in place. It's easy to imagine a mattress like this in many a luxury hotel throughout history.
The Swaledale has 11 layers and less springs than the Wensleydale, so it sits at a lower price point. While still an expensive mattress, the Swaledale is over £1,000 cheaper than the Wensleydale for a double. Similarly, though, this mattress is also double sided, with temperature regulating local wool to keep you cosy in winter, and breathable cotton to stay cool during summer. Flipping the mattress also helps to distribute the wear evenly and prolong its life. While only available in firm and extra firm, we found that the mattress still has just enough give to feel cushioning, but does feel super supportive with impressive spring back - we think this quality would also make it great for motion isolation.
Though it adds to its luxury appearance, this is an exceptionally deep mattress at 38cm, so you may have to buy deeper fitted sheets for it. And as mentioned with our other Button & Sprung pick, there is a delivery cost above a 65 mile radius from their showroom.
This mattress is delivered in a box at its full size, rather than rolled up, so do bear this in mind for delivery access. It is also a pretty heavy mattress, and would need two people to maneouvre or flip it.
Comfortable, supportive and hotel-like, with impressive depth.
Best discount on a pocket sprung mattress: Vispring Devonshire Mattress
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- Available in three different tensions, ensuring personalised comfort.
- Handcrafted with luxurious materials.
- This mattress is built to last for decades, maintaining its shape and support over time.
- As a luxury handmade mattress, the Devonshire isn’t the most affordable option, so if budget is a consideration, look out for retailers with sale offers.
- Being a luxury, bespoke mattress, it’s not always easy to find in-store, so trying before buying may be tricky.
| Vispring Devonshire Mattress | |
|---|---|
| Care: | Air for 4 hours after delivery. Regular rotation (unless it's a dual tension mattress). |
| Mattress depth: | 25cm |
| Trial period: | Not specified |
| Guarantee: | 20 years |
| Sizes available: | Single, small double, double, king and super king size |
| Material: | Springs, British fleece wool, calico |
| Type of mattress: | Pocket sprung |
| Firmness: | Soft, medium or firm |
| Country of manufacture: | UK |
It's fair to say that luxury mattresses are a significant investment, and it's true that many of our top picks in the world of pocket sprung mattresses are at the premium end of the spectrum. And while the Vispring Devonshire mattress is still expensive, we've found it to be one of the best reductions on a great quality sprung mattress - it currently has over £700 off the double size. Hybrid mattress giants like Emma and Simba constantly have offers on their products, but these deals are harder to come by in the world of traditionally made mattresses.
The six coil springs inside are each hand-nested in calico, and surrrounded by British fleece wool for insulation and resilience to the continued pressure that a mattress must sustain over the years. It is available in three different tensions, making it easy to find the perfect match that works for you.
This mattress should be aired for four hours to remove any aromas present from the mattress being stored and its natural materials. Leave time for the fillings and springs to settle to allow the mattress to reach its full size.
Luxurious, feels like sleeping on a cloud. Some customers note the ‘farm’ like smell due to the wool in the mattress, which soon dissipates after a day or two.
Best pillowtop pocket sprung mattress: Hypnos Luxurious Earth 03 Mattress
- Luxurious pillowtop feature adds an extra element of comfort
- Sustainably minded - use of natural materials and recycled materials, recyclable packaging, endorsed by the Eden Project
- Hypnos are Royal Warrant holders
- 40 night comfort trial is less than many retailers offer
- Pillowtop is not removable
- Expensive
| Hypnos Luxurious Earth 03 Mattress | |
|---|---|
| Care: | No turn mattress |
| Mattress depth: | 32cm |
| Trial period: | 40 night comfort guarantee |
| Guarantee: | 10 years |
| Sizes available: | Single, double, king, super king |
| Type of mattress: | Pocket springs, latex and wool |
| Firmness: | Medium or firm |
| Delivery: | £39 for orders over £100 with 1 item in the basket, £59 for orders over £100 with 2 or more items in the basket |
Crafted in Buckinghamshire by Royal Warrant holders Hypnos, this mattress is packed with luxurious features, while being focused on being kinder to the planet. This has led to it being recognised by the Eden Project. The 8 coil ReActivePro™ pocket springs offer optimised pressure relief, while elsewhere in the mattress is a combination of natural and organic materials and recycled fillings. There's the organic wool, natural latex and hypoallergic, renewable Allo fibres, as well as eOlus™, which is sustainable but not natural, as it is created from recycled plastic bottles. The cherry on top of the mattress is the plush pillowtop, which is sewn in to the design and is the USP of this particular mattress. Ideal for those looking to be cocooned yet supported by their mattress.
There is a delivery charge of £49, and the lead time is 6 weeks. This mattress is rather deep, so may require deeper fitted sheets.
Seamless service from Bensons for Beds, mattress is supremely comfortable, however some advise that the medium is too soft.
Best customisable pocket sprung mattress: Harrison Spinks Owen Mattress
| Owen Mattress | |
|---|---|
| Care: | Air the mattress regularly, remove dust and fluff every few months using a soft brush, never use a vacuum cleaner, spillages should be absorbed using a dry cloth or paper towels, spot clean with a damp cloth and a very mild solution of soap and water |
| Mattress depth: | 23cm |
| Trial period: | 100 night comfort guarantee |
| Guarantee: | 7 years |
| Sizes available: | Single, small double, double, king, super king, emperor |
| Type of mattress: | Pocket springs with layers of 100% natural fibres |
| Firmness: | Soft or medium |
| Delivery: | Free delivery, lead time from around 3 weeks |
Crafted in Yorkshire for Feather & Black by luxury mattress brand Harrison Spinks, the Owen stood out to us for the amount of options available to tailor it to your preferences. For king size and above, it is available in single tension (soft, medium or firm), or zip and link, or split tension. This is optimal for couples who have completely different sleeping preferences, and allows you to truly have the best of both worlds. Other than the springs (of which there are 10,750), there is also insulating, traceable British wool, farm-grown hemp, and cooling flax inside the mattress.
It is advised not to turn this mattress, and only to rotate it regularly. Although it claims to be made from 100% natural materials, the surface is a wool-viscose blend, so there is a synthetic element with the viscose.
Fantastic quality and very comfortable.
Are pocket sprung mattresses good?
There are so many advantages to investing in a high quality pocket sprung mattress. Many of them - particularly the luxury, handcrafted mattress brands - are primarily made with all-natural materials, along with the metal pocket springs, making them easier to recycle than mattresses that use synthetic foams and fibres. Certain memory foams can lead to overheating us at night, while materials like cotton and wool are naturally insulating and breathable.
As previously mentioned, the first pocket sprung mattresses were created in the 1800s, and there's a reason they have been around this long; sometimes, you don't need to reinvent the wheel, and the humble sprung mattress is proof of that. And while it's true that most of the time the mattress will be covered up with lovely sheets, blankets and bedding, pocket sprung mattresses just look lovelier than their hi-tech hybrid counterparts. This is often due to hand-stitched seams, smart piping around the edges and the tufts across the surface that are there to hold all the fillings in the right place, but also make it look very plush and inviting - akin to the buttoned back of a comfortable Chesterfield sofa.
