When we first started testing mattresses, one of the biggest issues we faced was overheating at night. No matter how many times we changed sheets or adjusted room temperature, waking up sweaty and restless was becoming normal. That’s when we decided to explore the best mattress for cooling in the UK — something that could actually help maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature through the night.
A cooling mattress is exactly what it sounds like — it’s made to keep your body cool while you sleep. Every mattress brand does this differently; some use gel-infused memory foam, others use breathable covers or open-cell designs that allow more airflow. After unboxing and spending hours lying on these mattresses, we quickly realised not all of them live up to their promises. So, we spent weeks to months testing different cooling mattresses to see which ones truly made a difference.
From our personal experience, a cooling mattress isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity, especially if you’re someone who tends to sleep hot or struggles during warm UK summers. The best ones don’t necessarily feel cold to the touch; instead, they regulate your body temperature naturally, helping you stay comfortable without feeling clammy. During testing, we found that some materials, like latex and hybrid designs, offered better breathability compared to dense memory foam.
Another thing we learned is that almost every brand claims to have a “cool and breathable” mattress, but the reality is often different. It took a lot of research, comparison, and hands-on testing to find out which ones genuinely worked. Some of the best cooling mattresses in the UK stood out for their temperature regulation, airflow, and moisture-wicking properties, which made a visible difference in our sleep quality.
So, if you often wake up too warm at night or struggle to get comfortable during summer, investing in the right cooling mattress is absolutely worth it. After testing over 50 mattresses, we’ve learned that finding the perfect balance between comfort, support, and breathability can completely transform how you sleep.
Best Mattress For Cooling UK At A Glance
| Mattress For Cooling UK | Cooling Technology | Best For | Firmness | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Origin Hybrid Mattress | Airflow layer + Temperature-regulating foam | Hot sleepers & combination sleepers | Medium-Firm | Excellent cooling and comfort at a low cost |
| Nectar Memory Foam | Gel-infused foam + Breathable cover | Memory foam lovers | Medium | Deep contouring feel with cooling gel comfort |
| Dreams TheraPur ActiGel Glacier | ActiGel layer + Open-cell foam | Side sleepers | Medium | Ideal cooling comfort with pressure relief |
| Simba Earth Apex | Graphite-infused Simbatex foam + Cooling gel layer | All sleeping positions | Medium-Firm | Eco-friendly cooling and advanced airflow design |
| Otty Original Hybrid | Cool Blue Gel-infused memory foam | Hot sleepers & couples | Medium-Firm | Excellent temperature control and firm support |
Quick Summary
- Best Overall Cooling Mattress UK: Origin Hybrid Mattress – great balance of cooling, comfort, and value.
- Best Gel Mattress UK: Simba Earth Apex Mattress – premium cooling gel and eco-friendly materials.
- Best for Side Sleepers: Dreams TheraPur ActiGel Glacier Mattress – soft cooling comfort and great pressure relief.
- Best Budget Cooling Mattress: Otty Original Hybrid Mattress – affordable, supportive, and keeps you cool.
- Best Cooling Memory Foam Mattress: Nectar Mattress – gel-infused foam that stays cool and cushioned.
Exploring The Right Kind of Mattress For Cooling UK
When I first started looking for the best mattress for cooling in the UK, I didn’t realise how much difference the material could make. After testing dozens of options over several weeks, I quickly learned that not every mattress that claims to be “cooling” actually keeps you cool. Some hold onto body heat, while others truly help maintain a comfortable temperature all night.
From my experience, traditional memory foam mattresses are not ideal for hot sleepers. While they do provide great pressure relief and body contouring, I noticed they tend to trap heat easily. The foam hugs the body too closely, reducing airflow. Even though memory foam has tiny pores meant to release air, it still ends up holding warmth, especially during summer nights. If you often wake up sweating, I’d recommend skipping standard memory foam altogether.
What worked better for me were mattresses made with Geltex. Brands like Silentnight and Sealy use this material in their cooling mattresses, and it genuinely feels cooler to the touch. Geltex combines gel molecules with an open-cell foam structure, which allows more air circulation. During my tests, these mattresses felt fresh even after long hours of use. They also provided the same comfort as memory foam but without that “heat trap” effect.
Another type that impressed me was gel-infused memory foam. Unlike regular memory foam, this version includes cooling gels, bamboo, or charcoal particles to reduce heat buildup. For instance, MLILY mattresses stood out for their mix of comfort, cooling, and antimicrobial properties. The gel infusion doesn’t just lower temperature — it also helps with pressure relief and edge support, making it a balanced choice for hot sleepers who still want that foam comfort.
For those who prefer a more natural feel, I found latex mattresses to be excellent. Latex, derived from rubber trees, has a naturally breathable and bouncy structure that prevents heat buildup. Though slightly more expensive, latex mattresses are durable and can last for more than a decade, making them a long-term investment for cooling and comfort.
Finally, I discovered that hybrid cooling mattresses — which combine foam or latex with pocket springs — offer the best of both worlds. The springs add firmness and enhance airflow, while the top cooling layers maintain a balanced temperature. Adding a cooling mattress cover or breathable bedding like Tencel further boosts comfort.
In short, finding the right cooling mattress in the UK means looking beyond brand claims and focusing on real breathability, material structure, and long-term comfort.
Best Mattress For Cooling UK: Tried and Tested Models
Why you can trust Top Best Mattress UK: Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Origin Hybrid
When I purchased the Origin Hybrid Mattress for Cooling UK, I was looking for something comfortable, supportive, and affordable. After unboxing and using it for several weeks, I was genuinely impressed with how well it performed, especially for the price. It offered a great balance between comfort and cooling, which made my sleep feel fresh and uninterrupted.
The first thing I noticed was the comfort and support. The mattress has a hybrid design that combines foam layers with supportive springs. It gave me a slightly firm yet cushioning feel that helped align my spine properly. I didn’t sink in too much, which I liked, and it provided just the right level of bounce. It’s ideal for anyone who prefers a mix of firmness and comfort — not too soft, not too hard.
In terms of cooling, it did much better than I expected. I tested it during a particularly warm week, and even though the top layer didn’t feel “ice cold,” it still kept me comfortable throughout the night. Unlike traditional memory foam mattresses, it didn’t trap heat or make me wake up sweaty. The materials clearly allow for good airflow, and the surface felt consistently cool even when the room got warmer.
I also liked that the mattress felt stable and supportive at the edges. It’s a well-built design that gives a premium feel, even though it’s priced much lower than some luxury cooling mattresses. While the cover isn’t removable or washable, that wasn’t a big issue for me — I always use a mattress protector anyway. The lack of handles makes it a bit tricky to move, but once it’s in place, it doesn’t shift at all.
At its price point, especially around £629 for a king size, the Origin Hybrid Mattress is a real bargain. The 200-night trial adds extra peace of mind, letting you fully experience its comfort before deciding.
Overall, my experience with the Origin Hybrid Mattress for Cooling UK has been excellent. It’s cool, supportive, and very comfortable for the money. If you want a budget-friendly cooling hybrid mattress that performs like a premium one, this is a fantastic choice.
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress for Cooling UK
When I purchased the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress for Cooling, I was mainly curious to see if a memory foam mattress could actually stay cool at night. I unboxed it, set it up, and after sleeping on it for several weeks, I can confidently say it exceeded my expectations.
The Nectar Mattress is built with multiple layers — a supportive base for stability, two layers of adaptive memory foam, and a cooling top cover that’s designed to regulate temperature. Even though memory foam is known for trapping heat, this mattress genuinely felt comfortable and cool throughout the night. The top cover does a great job of drawing heat away from the body, and the foam layers underneath balance softness with support perfectly.
I found the firmness level around 6 out of 10, which to me felt ideal — not too soft and not too firm. It supported my shoulders, hips, and back evenly, making it great for both side and back sleeping. One thing I really liked is the 7-zone support layer, which helps relieve pressure on the areas that usually feel sore after a long day. Despite being a memory foam mattress, I didn’t feel that “sinking” effect. Instead, it felt plush yet responsive.
From a cooling point of view, I was impressed. The smart cooling foam technology actually works. Even during warmer nights, I didn’t wake up overheated. The airflow through the foam felt natural and consistent, which made my sleep a lot more refreshing.
Another thing I appreciated is the value for money. The mattress feels luxurious but reasonably priced, especially considering the long 365-night trial and the lifetime guarantee. That trial period gave me real confidence that Nectar stands by its product quality.
Overall, my experience with the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress for Cooling UK has been genuinely positive. It’s comfortable, cooling, supportive, and built to last. If you’re looking for a cooling memory foam mattress that suits all sleeping positions and doesn’t overheat, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try — especially since you can test it risk-free for a whole year.
Dreams TheraPur ActiGel Glacier cooling mattress for side sleepers uk
When I purchased the Dreams TheraPur ActiGel Glacier Mattress, I was looking for something that could give me a cool and supportive sleep. After unboxing and testing it for several weeks, I can honestly say it’s one of the most refreshing mattresses I’ve ever used.
The TheraPur ActiGel Glacier is a hybrid mattress that combines a pocket-sprung base with foam and gel layers. The first thing I noticed was how supportive it felt — firm but still cushioned enough to relieve pressure on my shoulders and hips. As someone who switches between back and side sleeping, this mattress gave me balanced comfort in both positions. The edge support is impressive too; I could sit or lie near the edges without feeling like I’d roll off.
What really stood out for me was its cooling performance. I usually get warm during the night, but this mattress truly regulates temperature better than most others I’ve tried. The ActiGel layer feels cool to the touch and allows airflow through the foam, keeping the surface fresh even on warmer nights. During my testing, I noticed that my body temperature stayed steady throughout the night, and I never woke up feeling hot or uncomfortable. It’s ideal for hot sleepers or anyone who struggles with heat retention.
The build quality feels premium — it’s a high-end mattress, and you can tell from the first night. Even though it’s a pillowtop mattress, which means it can’t be flipped, it can be easily rotated to keep the wear even. Like many new foam mattresses, it did have a mild new-material smell initially, but with good ventilation, it faded within a few days.
Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but considering the comfort, support, and cooling technology, I believe it’s worth the investment. The 100-night trial also adds peace of mind, giving you time to make sure it’s the right fit.
Overall, my experience with the Dreams TheraPur ActiGel Glacier mattress for side sleepers uk has been excellent. It’s cool, firm, and incredibly comfortable — perfect for anyone who wants a luxurious cooling mattress that delivers consistent, refreshing sleep night after night.
Simba Earth Apex Mattress gel mattress uk
When I purchased the Simba Earth Apex Mattress, I was mainly looking for a mattress that could keep me cool without relying on synthetic materials. After unboxing and testing it for several weeks, I can honestly say this is one of the most refreshing and supportive mattresses I’ve ever slept on.
The Simba Earth Apex stands out because it’s made from natural materials rather than memory foam. The top cover is crafted from plant-derived viscose, and there are layers of natural wool beneath it. This combination helps with temperature regulation in a way that feels completely natural — cool in summer and warm in winter. From the very first night, I noticed a clear difference in how fresh and breathable the surface felt.
In terms of firmness, it’s slightly on the stronger side. I would rate it just above medium-firm, which gives excellent support for the back and hips. As someone who alternates between side and back sleeping, I found it perfectly balanced — firm enough to keep my spine aligned but soft enough to feel cushioned. I didn’t feel the need for a mattress topper, which says a lot about its comfort level.
What impressed me most was its motion isolation and edge support. Even when moving around during the night, I barely noticed any motion transfer. The edges also feel strong and stable, so I can sit or lie near the edge without sliding off.
Another thing I appreciated was how naturally cool it felt compared to memory foam mattresses. Since the Earth Apex doesn’t use foam that traps heat, it offers a genuinely breathable sleep experience. Wool works wonderfully as a natural insulator, keeping the temperature consistent throughout the night.
Yes, the Simba Earth Apex is quite an investment — a double size costs around £2,000 — but in my opinion, it’s worth it if you value premium materials, cooling comfort, and solid support. It’s a sustainable and high-performance option that feels both luxurious and practical.
Overall, my experience with the Simba Earth Apex Mattress for Cooling UK has been outstanding. It’s cool, supportive, eco-friendly, and built to last — perfect for anyone who wants a natural cooling mattress that truly delivers restful sleep.
Otty Original Hybrid mattress for cool sleeping uk
When I purchased the OTTY Original Hybrid Mattress, I was looking for something that felt cool, supportive, and affordable. After unboxing it and sleeping on it for several weeks, I can say it completely lived up to my expectations. It’s one of those mattresses that instantly gives you that balance of firmness, comfort, and temperature control — something not easy to find at this price point.
The OTTY Original Hybrid is designed with a combination of memory foam and pocket springs, which work together beautifully. The top layer of temperature-regulating memory foam felt surprisingly cool to lie on, even during warmer nights. Beneath that, the airflow side support layer and the 2,000 full-size pocket springs added a lot of bounce and ventilation. The air circulation through the springs kept the mattress feeling fresh, and I never felt stuck or overheated while sleeping.
For me, the firmness level was just right — on the firmer side, which I personally prefer. It gave excellent support to my lower back and shoulders without feeling too hard. I could feel that my body was properly aligned through the night, and waking up without stiffness made a noticeable difference in how refreshed I felt. The edge support could be slightly stronger, but honestly, it never affected my comfort while sleeping.
Another thing I really liked about the OTTY Original Hybrid is how cool and breathable it felt in my 18°C bedroom. It maintained a consistent, comfortable temperature throughout the night, something that’s rare with foam mattresses. The cooling foam technology really works, keeping heat buildup away.
From a value perspective, it’s a standout. The 200-night trial gives plenty of time to test it properly, and the price is much more reasonable compared to high-end models like Simba.
Overall, my experience with the OTTY Original Hybrid Mattress for Cool Sleeping UK has been very positive. It’s firm, supportive, and refreshingly cool — perfect for anyone who wants a budget-friendly hybrid mattress that doesn’t compromise on comfort or temperature control. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a cooling hybrid mattress in the UK.
How We Test
When we test the best mattresses for cooling in the UK, our main goal is to find out which ones truly help you stay cool and comfortable through the night. We spend weeks — sometimes months — sleeping on each mattress to see how it performs in real-life conditions. Here’s how we test them step by step:
1. Unboxing and Setup
Each mattress is unboxed and left to expand fully before testing begins. We take note of any initial odours, how quickly it reaches its full shape, and the overall build quality. This helps us understand the real first impression a buyer will experience.
2. Cooling Performance
Cooling is the key focus. We test how well each mattress regulates temperature across different conditions. During warm nights, we pay attention to how quickly the surface cools down after use and whether it traps body heat. We also test in rooms between 18°C and 25°C to measure consistency.
3. Material and Breathability
We check what cooling technologies each mattress uses — such as gel-infused foam, phase change, open-cell memory foam, latex, or hybrid spring designs. We also assess the airflow between layers and the breathability of the top cover. Mattresses with better ventilation and moisture-wicking materials score higher in this category.
4. Comfort and Support
Cooling means nothing if the mattress isn’t comfortable. We test how the mattress feels for different sleeping positions — side, back, and stomach. Firmness, pressure relief, and motion isolation are evaluated carefully. We use a simple firmness scale from 1 to 10 and note how supportive it feels for long nights of sleep.
5. Long-Term Use and Maintenance
Over several weeks, we check if the cooling effect remains consistent. Some foams tend to soften or trap more heat over time — those lose points. We also note practical features like removable covers, ease of rotation, and edge support.
6. Overall Value
Finally, we compare performance with price. A mattress that keeps you cool, comfortable, and well-supported at a fair price ranks higher.
Through this detailed process, we confidently recommend the best cooling mattresses in the UK that truly deliver comfort, breathability, and restful sleep night after night.
FAQ’s: Best Mattress For Cooling UK
Which mattress is most cooling?
The most cooling mattress in the UK is usually a hybrid cooling mattress. It combines a firm spring system with layers of gel memory foam, latex, or Geltex to enhance airflow and temperature regulation. This design keeps hot sleepers comfortable and supported throughout the night for a cooler, restful sleep.
Do cooling mattresses work in the UK?
Yes, cooling mattresses do work in the UK. While they can’t completely stop night sweats, they help regulate body temperature and prevent overheating. For hot sleepers, a cooling mattress provides better comfort, improved airflow, and a cooler sleeping surface throughout the night, making a noticeable difference in warm weather.
How to choose a cooling mattress?
To choose the best cooling mattress in the UK, consider your sleeping position, firmness preference, budget, and bed size. A top-rated cooling mattress won’t feel right if it’s too firm or soft for your needs. Pick one that balances comfort, support, and breathability for a cooler night’s sleep.
What’s the lifespan of a cooling mattress?
The lifespan of a cooling mattress in the UK depends on its design and material quality. A high-quality gel memory foam mattress with strong support and balanced foam-to-gel ratio can last 10 to 15 years. Regular care and rotation can also help maintain its cooling performance and durability.
Are gel mattresses really cooler?
Gel mattresses are generally cooler than traditional memory foam because they offer better temperature control. However, their cooling effect has limits. In very warm climates or for extremely hot sleepers, the gel layer may not fully prevent heat buildup, though it still provides a noticeably cooler and more comfortable sleep experience.
How can I make my mattress feel cooler?
To make your mattress feel cooler, use breathable bedding, a cooling mattress topper, and improve room ventilation. Adjusting the temperature and airflow can greatly enhance comfort. These simple changes help regulate body heat, making your sleeping environment cooler and more refreshing throughout the night for hot sleepers in the UK.
Kendal Mattress Tester
Kendal personally tests every mattress featured in our reviews. With hands-on experience from unboxing to months of nightly use, Kendall focuses on real comfort, support, and long-term value. Every recommendation is based on genuine testing — not promotion — to help readers find the best mattress for their sleep needs.
Marten Mattress Reviewer
Marten has personally tested a wide range of mattresses across the country, focusing on real-life comfort and durability. From the first night’s sleep to long-term support, every review reflects hands-on experience. Marten’s goal is to help readers choose the right mattress through honest, tried-and-tested insights.
Gary Product Tester
Gary personally tests every mattress to understand how it truly performs in real-life conditions. From firmness and edge support to cooling and comfort, his reviews are based on hands-on experience. Gary focuses on honest, practical insights to help readers find the best mattress for their sleep style.