10 Best mattress without memory foam in the UK 2023

Memory foam mattresses have become exceedingly popular in recent years, prized for molding to the contours of your body and relieving pressure points. However, memory foam isn’t for everyone. It has a reputation for sleeping hot, giving off strong odors when new, and lacking bounce. If you find yourself wanting an alternative that still delivers comfort without the drawbacks of memory foam, there are quality options available. The purpose of this post is to show you, top mattress without memory foam in the UK market, looking closely at materials such as latex, microcoils, and pocket springs. We’ll discuss how these different components provide comfort and support in their own unique ways. Brands like Eve, Simba, and Brook + Wilde have fantastic mattress models that forgo memory foam while still letting you wake up refreshed.

List of the Best mattress without memory foam in the UK

Things to consider while going to buy a mattress without memory foam in the UK

Memory foam rose to popularity in recent years for its ability to conform to the body and relieve pressure points. However, some sleepers find it retains too much heat or lacks adequate support.

If you’ve ruled out memory foam, there are still several factors to weigh when selecting an alternative mattress in the UK. Here are some key considerations:

Mattress Type

Here are a few top options besides memory foam:

Latex – Latex mattresses provide responsive support and contouring while sleeping cool. Natural latex comes from the sap of rubber trees, while synthetic latex is made from chemicals. Look for natural latex if you want a more eco-friendly mattress.

Innerspring – This classic mattress type contains steel coils or springs to provide support. Models vary widely in coil count, gauge, and configuration, impacting factors like firmness, bounce, and edge support.

Hybrid – Hybrid mattresses combine coils with latex, wool, microcoils, or other materials. This blend aims to offer the pressure relief of foam along with the support and breathability of springs.

Adjustable air beds – Made with air chambers rather than springs or foam, air beds allow you to customize the firmness on each side. These can be a good option for couples with different preferences.

Think about your sleeping position, firmness preference, budget, and priorities like pressure relief, ease of movement, and temperature regulation as you narrow down the mattress type.

Mattress Firmness

Once you select a mattress type, the firmness level is key. As you test mattresses, evaluate whether you sink in too deeply or feel like you’re lying on top. Back and stomach sleepers often prefer medium to firm models that keep the spine aligned, while side sleepers need softer beds to cushion shoulders and hips. Personal comfort is the most important factor when gauging mattress firmness.

Many brands use a firmness scale of 1-10, but there is no standard across the industry. It’s best to try mattresses in person when possible. If ordering online, look for generous trial periods of at least 100 nights so you can evaluate the firmness at home. Some companies also manufacture dual-firmness mattresses with a different firmness on each side.

Mattress Materials

The materials inside a mattress impact its durability, breathability, moisture-wicking abilities, and more. Along with coils, key materials in non-memory foam beds include:

Natural fibers like wool and cotton – Help regulate temperature, resist moisture, and provide a softer feel. Look for organic or ethically sourced wool.

Latex – Provides contouring without excessive sinkage. Talalay latex has a springier, airier feel compared to Dunlop latex.

Microcoils – Smaller steel coils infused in the comfort layer enhance support and responsiveness.

Polyfoam – Varies widely in density and quality. Higher density polyfoam lasts longer. Standard polyfoam may trap heat.

Plant-based foams – Made partially or entirely from materials like soy, tea, or algae. More breathable and eco-friendly than petroleum-based foam.

Avoid mattresses with low-density foam comfort layers or cheap materials that compress quickly. The quality of the materials strongly influences mattress durability and longevity.

Mattress Certifications

Several third-party organizations offer certifications for eco-friendly, non-toxic mattress materials. These include:

GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) – Certifies materials in latex mattresses are organically sourced and processed.

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) – Verifies cotton and wool are organic. Ensures processing meets strict environmental standards.

OEKO-TEX – Confirms mattress materials are free of harmful substances and chemicals. Tests for VOC emissions.

GREENGUARD Gold – Certifies low emissions of VOCs for safer indoor air quality. Products must meet strict criteria.

FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) – Indicates lumber inside mattresses comes from responsibly managed forests.

While voluntary, these reputable certifications hold manufacturers to high standards around sustainability and human safety. Seeing them can give you peace of mind about the materials’ purity.

Sleep Trials and Warranties

One major advantage of buying a mattress online is sleep trials, which let you test out the bed at home. Standard policies are 100 nights, but some brands offer trials up to a full year. Carefully review sleep trial terms:

Return fees – While many brands refund the purchase price, some deduct return shipping fees and restocking fees.

Trial period – Returns must be initiated before the end of the trial window to qualify for a refund.

Mandatory break-in period – Some companies require you try the mattress for 2-4 weeks before starting the return process.

Reboxing and sanitizing – You may need to repackage the mattress in its original box or pay a removal fee.

Along with sleep trials, look at each mattress warranty’s length, coverage, and limitations. Non-prorated warranties that fully replace defective mattresses are best.

Mattress Price

Mattress prices span a wide range. Budget around £200-400 for basic spring mattresses, £600-1000 for mid-range options, and £1000-2000+ for luxury brands. Natural latex and organic materials sit at the higher end.

Here are tips for getting value:

• Online brands generally offer better prices than in-store.
• Look for discounts around holidays and sales events. Sign up for email lists to get special offers.
• Consider display models or floor samples for steep discounts.
• Focus on quality over flashy ad budgets. Unknown brands often provide comparable beds for less.
• Verify return policies and warranties before purchasing the cheapest option.

While it takes some effort to identify the optimal non-memory foam mattress for your needs, taking time to research and test different beds can lead to restful, healthy sleep for years to come. Weigh all the factors and inspect materials to find a model that aligns with your budget, sleep style, and priorities. With an informed decision, you’re more likely to wake up feeling refreshed and satisfied each morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the main alternatives to memory foam for mattresses in the UK?

A: The most common alternatives to memory foam are pocket sprung mattresses, latex mattresses and hybrid mattresses. Pocket sprung mattresses provide good support through individual springs encased in fabric pockets. Latex is naturally responsive and durable. Hybrid mattresses combine pocket springs with a comfort layer material like latex or polyfoam.

Q: Which mattresses provide good pressure relief without using memory foam?

A: Latex and pocket sprung mattresses can provide good pressure relief for side sleepers and people with aches and pains. The springiness of pocket springs prevents sagging while latex gently conforms to the body’s contours. Look for zoned pocket springs or a latex comfort layer for optimal pressure relief.

Q: How firm should a mattress be if you don’t want the sinking feel of memory foam?

A: Look for a medium firm or firm mattress rating if you want to avoid excessive sinking. This corresponds to a 6-8 or 8-10 on the firmness scale. Medium firm is ideal for back and stomach sleepers who still need a balance of comfort and support. Firm is better for heavier people who need more pushback.

Q: What mattresses sleep cool without memory foam?

A: Latex and hybrid mattresses with coil systems sleep much cooler than solid memory foam. Latex has an open-cell structure that allows airflow. Pocket coils also promote airflow and reduce heat retention. Look for added cooling features like graphite or gel infusions for temperature regulation.

Q: How much should I budget for a good mattress without memory foam

A: Expect to spend £600-£1200 for a high quality mattress made with materials like pocket springs and latex. Many non-memory foam mattresses fall in the mid-range around £800 for a standard double size. Higher budgets bring extra features and customization.

Conclusion

After examining some of the premier mattress options without memory foam available in the UK market, it becomes evident that there are many high-caliber alternatives to memory foam mattresses. The Simba Premium Seven-Zoned emerges as an exceptional all-around pick, furnishing remarkable comfort and support without utilizing memory foam technology. Its exclusive combination of foam layers hugs the contours of the body while also providing bounce and edge reinforcement.

For sleepers seeking an exceptionally firm, supportive mattress, the Simba Hybrid Pro is a top-notch selection. Its mini pocket springs and foam layers promote proper spine alignment while still alleviating pressure points. The firmer sensation may be ideal for back and stomach sleepers.

The Simba Premium Seven-Zoned Foam Boxed Mattress King also merits consideration thanks to its pressure-relieving yet supportive feel. The hybrid design skillfully blends bounce and contouring. The cooler cover fabric and handles for easy repositioning are also nice perks not commonly found in a mattress.

While memory foam certainly has advantages, there are high-quality alternatives that avoid the heat retention complaints some sleepers have with memory foam. By selecting well-constructed hybrids or ingeniously engineered foam mattresses such as the Simba Hybrid Pro, sleepers can enjoy conforming comfort and support without the potential downsides of memory foam. With so many options available now, consumers can discover a comfortable, cool and premium mattress even if they prefer to steer clear of memory foam.

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