Things to consider when buying a mattress online

Buying a mattress online sounds simple until you realise how many choices sit behind one click. A mattress needs to suit how you sleep, how you rest, and how your body feels at the end of the day, not just look good on a product page.

That plush mattress might sound inviting, but will it offer the right level of support? A firmer option could seem sensible, but is it actually comfortable for long term use? These are the practical questions worth considering before making a decision that affects your sleep every night.

To help you make a more confident choice, this guide breaks down what really matters when buying a mattress online. Read on to see what’s worth paying attention to before you buy.

1. Understanding Mattress Types

Choosing the right mattress starts with understanding how different constructions affect comfort, support, and long term use. Each mattress type is designed to suit different sleep styles, body weights, and personal preferences. While some prioritise pressure relief, others focus on responsiveness or airflow. Knowing the pros and cons of each option makes it easier to choose something that genuinely suits your needs rather than relying on descriptions alone.

Memory Foam Mattress

Memory foam mattresses mould closely to the shape of your body, offering targeted pressure relief around the shoulders, hips, and lower back. This makes them a good choice for people who want a softer, more cushioning feel or need extra joint support.

However, the close contouring can make movement feel restricted, especially for those who change position often. Heat retention can also be an issue with lower quality foams, so construction and ventilation matter.

Pocket Sprung Mattress

Pocket sprung mattresses use individually wrapped springs that respond independently to your body weight. This provides consistent support, better airflow, and a more traditional mattress feel.

They are well suited to sleepers who prefer a firmer surface or need stronger edge support. The drawback is that they generally offer less pressure relief than foam, and cheaper versions may lose their shape over time.

Hybrid Mattress

Hybrid mattresses combine pocket springs with foam layers to deliver both support and comfort. They aim to balance pressure relief with responsiveness, making them suitable for a wide range of sleepers.

Hybrids tend to feel easier to move on than full memory foam mattresses and often provide better airflow. On the downside, they can be heavier and more expensive, and quality varies depending on the materials used.

Latex Mattress

Latex mattresses are known for their durability, natural bounce, and breathable structure. They provide responsive support without the sinking feeling associated with memory foam, which many people find easier to sleep on.

Latex is also naturally resistant to dust mites, making it a good option for allergy sufferers. The main drawbacks are the higher price point and a firmer feel that may not suit those who prefer deep cushioning.

2. Choosing the Right Firmness for Your Sleeping Style

Firmness plays a major role in how supported and comfortable you feel throughout the night, yet it is often misunderstood. It does not simply mean soft or hard, but how well the mattress keeps your body aligned while cushioning pressure points. The right firmness depends largely on how you sleep and how your weight is distributed across the mattress. Understanding this relationship helps you choose an option that supports rest rather than disrupting it.

• Side Sleepers: Side sleepers usually benefit from a medium to medium soft mattress that cushions the shoulders and hips. These pressure points take on more weight in this position, so too much firmness can cause discomfort over time. A softer surface allows the spine to remain aligned while reducing strain on joints. However, a mattress that is too soft may cause the body to sink unevenly, which can affect support.
• Back Sleepers: Back sleepers tend to need a medium to medium firm mattress that supports the natural curve of the spine. The mattress should provide enough cushioning for the lower back without allowing the hips to sink too deeply. This balance helps maintain proper alignment and reduces pressure build up. Mattresses that are too soft or too firm can both lead to discomfort by pushing the spine out of position.
• Front Sleepers: Front sleepers generally require a firmer mattress to prevent the hips from dipping too far into the surface. Excessive sink can place strain on the lower back and neck, making support especially important. A firmer feel helps keep the body more level throughout the night. The downside is that too much firmness can feel uncomfortable on the chest and shoulders, so balance still matters.
• Combination Sleepers: Combination sleepers change positions during the night, so responsiveness becomes just as important as firmness. A medium firmness mattress often works best, offering enough support for back and front sleeping while still cushioning the sides. Mattresses that allow easy movement help prevent feeling stuck in one position.
• Body Weight Considerations: Body weight also affects how firm a mattress feels in practice. Lighter sleepers may find firmer mattresses uncomfortable, while heavier sleepers often need extra support to avoid excessive sinking. This is why firmness should always be considered alongside sleeping position rather than in isolation. Choosing with both factors in mind leads to better long term comfort.

3. Which Mattress Size Is Right for You

The mattress you choose sets the stage for a good night’s sleep, and size is often just as important as type or firmness. The size affects how comfortably you sleep, how much space you have to move, and how well the mattress fits your room. Here’s a detailed look at the standard sizes and who they suit best:

Single

Single mattresses are usually 90cm wide, making them perfect for children, teenagers, or adults in smaller rooms. They are compact, easy to fit, and generally more affordable than wider options.The key advantage is their space efficiency, allowing for a bed in a guest room, box room, or studio apartment. On the downside, a single offers very little room to move, which can feel restrictive for restless sleepers or taller individuals

Small Double

Small doubles, typically 120cm wide, provide extra space for solo sleepers who want more freedom to stretch. They can also accommodate occasional shared use, though two adults may find them tight over time. This size works well in rooms where a standard double might dominate the space. While it’s a practical middle ground, couples may find it less comfortable in the long term, especially if either partner moves around during sleep.

Double

A standard double mattress measures 135cm wide and 190cm long, offering a comfortable balance for many singles and couples. It fits most bedrooms comfortably while giving enough space to shift positions during the night. Its versatility makes it the most commonly chosen size. The main limitation is that couples who move a lot may still experience disturbances, so careful consideration of sleeping habits is important.

King

King mattresses, at 150cm wide and 200cm long, give couples more room to move and reduce the likelihood of disturbing each other. They also provide extra comfort for taller individuals or those who value a more spacious sleeping area. The trade off is that they require a larger bedroom and can make smaller rooms feel cramped. Additionally, finding suitable bedding and bed frames can be slightly more challenging than with standard sizes.

Super King

Super king mattresses are the largest commonly available option, typically 180cm wide and 200cm long. They are ideal for couples who prioritise maximum comfort and freedom of movement, or for those who share their bed with children or pets. While they provide unparalleled sleeping space, they demand a very spacious bedroom and come at a higher cost for both mattress and bedding. Their size also makes handling and moving the bed more challenging.

4. Health Considerations

Selecting the right mattress isn’t just about comfort or style, it can directly affect your health and quality of sleep. The right mattress supports your spine, cushions pressure points, and can even reduce aches and pains. Conversely, the wrong choice can contribute to back or joint discomfort, poor posture, and restless nights. Being aware of these factors ensures your mattress supports your overall wellbeing rather than creating new issues.

• Back and Spinal Support: A mattress should maintain the natural alignment of your spine, regardless of your sleeping position. Too soft a mattress can let your body sink, causing the spine to curve unnaturally, while a very firm mattress may push on pressure points. Medium to medium-firm options often provide the best balance for back support, but the ideal level varies by individual. Choosing the correct support can reduce lower back pain and improve sleep quality over time.
• Joint Pressure Relief: Certain mattresses are better at cushioning joints such as shoulders, hips, and knees. Memory foam or hybrid mattresses often provide targeted pressure relief, which can be particularly beneficial for side sleepers or those with joint discomfort. A mattress that is too firm may increase pressure, while one that is too soft can reduce support and alignment. Considering how your mattress interacts with your joints can prevent soreness and improve long-term comfort.
• Allergies and Sensitivities: Materials matter for allergy sufferers. Natural latex and hypoallergenic mattresses resist dust mites and are less likely to trigger reactions. Synthetic foams can sometimes trap dust or off-gas, which may be problematic for sensitive individuals. Proper mattress maintenance, including covers and regular cleaning, can also reduce allergens and improve sleep health.
• Existing Health Conditions: If you have chronic back pain, arthritis, or other conditions affecting mobility, mattress choice becomes even more critical. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses are often recommended for their pressure-relieving and supportive properties. Firmness and type should be matched to your specific needs, and it can be helpful to consult a healthcare professional if you have persistent discomfort.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Mattress Online

Buying a mattress online offers convenience and variety, but it can also lead to costly mistakes if you’re not careful. Many shoppers rely too heavily on marketing descriptions, assume one size or type fits all, or overlook important details like trial periods and warranties. Here’s a detailed look at mistakes to avoid and how to sidestep them.

• Ignoring your sleeping style: Choosing a mattress without considering whether you sleep on your side, back, front, or change positions can lead to discomfort and poor spinal alignment. Check firmness and materials that suit your sleep habits.
• Overlooking Mattress Materials and Construction: Memory foam, pocket sprung, hybrid, and latex mattresses all feel and perform differently. Not understanding the pros and cons can result in a mattress that feels fine at first but fails over time.
  
  
• Skipping Trial Periods and Return Policies: Comfort is subjective and may take weeks to fully assess. Ensure the retailer offers a clear trial period and easy returns or exchanges to avoid being stuck with an unsuitable mattress.
• Choosing the wrong size: A mattress that is too small or too large for your room or sleeping needs can affect comfort and movement. Measure your space and consider whether you sleep alone or share the bed.
• Neglecting Reviews and Feedback: Relying solely on product descriptions can be misleading. Customer reviews often highlight issues like sagging, heat retention, or noise that may not be obvious from the product page.
• Focusing only on Price: While budgets are important, the cheapest option may compromise comfort, support, or durability. Investing in a mattress that meets your needs often saves money, discomfort, and restless nights in the long run.

Having gone through the essential factors in selecting a mattress, you’re now prepared to choose one that enhances sleep quality and overall comfort. By focusing on your unique needs, you’re better positioned to avoid mistakes and enjoy a mattress that truly supports your lifestyle and rest.