Best pocket sprung mattresses for 2024

Is a pocket sprung mattress better than a memory foam mattress? If you're not keen on the feeling of memory foam, take a look at the best pocket sprung mattresses we've tested and the key questions to consider.

Whether you want a traditional pocket sprung mattress, one with natural fillings, or a hybrid mattress containing both springs and foam or memory foam, our recommendations will help.

Not sure if a pocket sprung mattress is for you? See pros and cons of the different mattress types in our best mattress guide.

Only logged-in Which? members can view our recommendations in the table below. If you're not yet a member, join Which? to get instant access.

Best pocket sprung mattresses

Take a look at our full list of mattress reviews to help you get the best night's sleep.

How to buy the best pocket sprung mattress

There are a few key questions you should ask yourself before you invest in a new pocket sprung mattress.

• Do you tend to get hot in bed? If you tend to overheat or suffer from hot flushes in bed, a pocket sprung mattress might be the ideal choice. The spring construction means it tends to be more breathable than other types, and can be cooler to lie on when you get into bed. Choose one that our reviews rate as 'cold' or 'very cold' and scores at least three stars on breathability.
• Do you like to sink into your mattress? A pocket sprung mattress doesn't mould to your shape in the same way memory foam does, although the pocket springs are designed to be responsive to your shape. A hybrid could be a good option, combing pocket springs with layers of memory foam.
• Do you sleep on your side? Pocket sprung mattresses enclose each spring in its own fabric 'pocket', which reacts to pressure from your body independently. A decent mattress will distribute this evenly across the mattress rather than letting one part sink in more than the other – important if you like to curl up on your side. 
• Do you want a long-lasting mattress? Sprung mattresses are a popular choice with our members, but our tests have shown that they can suffer with sagging or a loss of support as they age – you may not notice, as your bed will probably still feel comfortable, but your spine may not be supported as well.
• Will I be able to move the mattress myself? The pocket sprung mattress we've tested weigh 20kg-50kg, so some of them are pretty hefty and may need two people to move. Many are delivered flat, as opposed to rolled up, so it's worth considering how easy the access is to your bedroom.  
• How much are you willing to spend? Pocket sprung mattresses tend to cost less than hybrid ones, but more than the basic open coil sprung mattresses (these are usually the cheapest). We've tested a range of pocket sprung mattresses from less than £200 to more than £2,000, so there's something for everyone's budget.

Not sure what size pocket sprung mattress to buy? See our guide to UK bed sizes.

Do more pocket springs mean a firmer mattress?

Not necessarily. Having more springs doesn't mean better support or a firmer mattress, and the number of springs can sometimes be less important than how the mattress is constructed overall.

We've tested mattresses with a range of spring densities ranging from 111m2  to 826m2 , and found a wide variation in results in body support and performance. 

Are pocket sprung mattresses durable?

After measuring the height, firmness and supportiveness in the key sleeping positions of every mattress we test, we then simulate up to a decade of use by rolling a heavy barrel over the mattress 30,000 times. To do well in our durability tests, a mattress must not sag or soften, and it must continue to provide adequate back support.

Overall, pocket sprung mattresses are durable, in the sense that they come through our tests undamaged. However, our tests also highlight that some suffer with a problem – the layers compress, which causes a reduction in height as the mattress ages. In some cases, spinal support is affected. This means your mattress may not stand the test of time and you'll need to get a new one, or invest in a mattress topper.

Our reviews will help you pick out a long-lasting mattress, but to maximise its lifespan, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions on rotating or turning it.

How often should you turn a pocket sprung mattress?

Many mattresses we test nowadays are single-sided, which means you don't need to flip them over. However, you may need to rotate the mattress from head to toe. This will help keep it in the best condition. 

The position and size of the handles make a big difference to the ease of moving the mattress. Some mattresses require turning every three months, but may not have handles. And even those that do have them, the size and weight may still mean it's a two-person job!

Always check the care label for the instructions specific to your mattress. 

Read more about our rigorous mattress tests in how we test mattresses.