How We Test Every Mattress
Rigorous scientific testing combined with real-world sleep trials to bring you the most trustworthy mattress reviews in the UK.
Our testing lab uses professional-grade pressure mapping and thermal imaging equipment
Why Trust Our Reviews?
Unlike many comparison sites that simply repackage manufacturer claims, we actually test every mattress we review. Our methodology combines laboratory-grade equipment with real-world sleep trials.
We purchase mattresses ourselves—no freebies, no manufacturer influence. Our ratings reflect genuine performance, not advertising spend.
Our 6-Stage Testing Process
Every mattress goes through the same rigorous evaluation to ensure fair, consistent reviews.
Unboxing & Setup
We document delivery, unboxing experience, and off-gassing time
Lab Testing
Pressure mapping, firmness measurement, and durability simulation
Temperature Tests
Thermal imaging and surface temperature monitoring over 8 hours
Motion Analysis
Partner disturbance and edge support testing with calibrated equipment
Real Sleep Trials
Minimum 30 nights testing by diverse panel of sleepers
Final Scoring
Data analysis, scoring, and comparison with category leaders
What We Test & How We Score
Our overall rating combines six key testing categories, each weighted by importance for a good night's sleep.
Score Weighting Breakdown
Pressure Mapping Analysis
Scientific measurement of how mattresses distribute body weight
Using advanced pressure mapping technology, we measure exactly how each mattress responds to body weight. Our sensors capture over 2,000 data points to create detailed heat maps showing pressure distribution. Red zones indicate high pressure (potential pain points), while green zones show optimal cushioning.
Tests Performed:
- Full-body pressure distribution mapping
- Shoulder and hip pressure point testing
- Spinal alignment verification with sensors
- Weight distribution analysis across sleep positions
Temperature Regulation Testing
Measuring how well mattresses dissipate heat throughout the night
We use thermal cameras and surface thermometers to measure temperature changes over a full night. Tests are conducted in controlled environments at 18°C room temperature. We record how quickly mattresses absorb and release body heat.
Tests Performed:
- Thermal imaging during 8-hour sleep cycles
- Surface temperature monitoring
- Core temperature regulation analysis
- Humidity and moisture wicking tests
Motion Transfer Assessment
Testing how movement on one side affects the other
Our motion transfer tests simulate a restless sleeper using calibrated weight drops. Sensors on the opposite side measure vibration intensity and duration. Lower scores mean less partner disturbance—crucial for light sleepers sharing a bed.
Tests Performed:
- Partner disturbance simulation
- Vibration transfer measurement
- Edge-to-edge motion analysis
- Getting in/out of bed impact testing
Durability & Longevity Testing
Simulating years of use to predict long-term performance
Using a 140kg roller, we simulate approximately 30,000 sleep cycles—equivalent to 10 years of use. We measure any sagging, loss of support, or material degradation. This helps predict how well a mattress maintains its comfort over time.
Tests Performed:
- Roller simulation (equivalent to 10 years use)
- Edge compression testing
- Foam resilience measurements
- Spring fatigue analysis
Firmness & Support Analysis
Objective measurement of comfort levels and spinal support
We measure firmness using standardised indentation load deflection (ILD) tests. Photography with alignment markers shows how the spine curves in different positions. This data helps match mattresses to sleep positions and body types.
Tests Performed:
- Standardised firmness scale testing
- Spinal alignment photography
- Support consistency across surface
- Edge support measurement
Real Sleeper Trials
Extended testing by diverse panel of UK sleepers
Our panel of 12 regular testers represents UK sleepers of various ages, body types, and sleep preferences. Each tester sleeps on mattresses for minimum 30 nights, recording comfort, pain levels, and sleep quality using standardised surveys.
Tests Performed:
- 30-night minimum sleep trials
- Diverse body type panel testing
- Morning pain and stiffness surveys
- Sleep quality tracking data
Our Testing Equipment
We invest in professional-grade equipment to ensure accurate, repeatable measurements.
Pressure Mapping System
XSensor X3 Pro with 2,304 sensing points
Thermal Imaging Camera
FLIR E8 Pro for temperature analysis
Durability Roller
140kg certified roller for longevity tests
Firmness Tester
ILD measurement equipment
Understanding Our Ratings
Our 5-star scale reflects overall quality and value for UK sleepers.
| Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ★★★★★ 4.5-5.0 | Exceptional |
| ★★★★ 4.0-4.4 | Excellent |
| ★★★½ 3.5-3.9 | Very Good |
| ★★★ 3.0-3.4 | Good |
| ★★ Below 3.0 | Fair/Poor |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you test each mattress?
Each mattress undergoes a minimum of 30 nights of real-world testing by our panel, plus laboratory assessments that simulate 10 years of use. Complex tests like durability simulation take several days to complete.
Do you accept free mattresses from brands?
No. We purchase all mattresses ourselves at retail prices. This ensures complete independence—our ratings reflect genuine performance, not manufacturer relationships.
How do you make money if you don't accept payment?
We earn affiliate commissions when readers purchase through our links. Importantly, this happens after we've completed our testing. Commissions never influence our ratings, rankings, or recommendations.
Who are your testers?
Our panel includes 12 regular testers representing diverse body types (8-18+ stone), ages (25-65), and sleep positions. We also have specialists in back pain, sleep disorders, and temperature sensitivity.
How often do you update your reviews?
We continuously monitor for model updates, price changes, and user feedback. Major reviews are refreshed annually, with rating adjustments made whenever significant changes occur.