What is a cooling mattress?

A cooling mattress regulates body temperature and provides a cooler sleep surface. Made with advanced materials and technology such as ActiGel® foam, these mattresses enhance airflow, wick away moisture, and disperse heat—helping to prevent night sweats and promote deeper, more restful sleep.

Who are cooling mattresses best for?

Cooling mattresses are a comfortable and practical solution for those that struggle with the heat during the night. Whether it’s the summer or you just run hot, you’re not alone, according to our 2024 Sleep Survey, 37% of people woke up from being too hot. If this sounds like you, then a cooling mattress may be for you, as the goal is to maintain an optimal sleep temperature.

While anyone who prefers to feel cooler should use a cooling mattress, they are best for:

• Hot sleepers who naturally run warm or sweat at night
• Women going through menopause and experiencing hot flushes or night sweats
• Those with health conditions that cause excess sweating
• Those recovering from illness or injury and could benefit from cooling features at night
• Couples with different temperature preferences or who get hot at night sleeping together

Benefits of cooling mattresses

A cooling mattress is more than just a place to sleep—it’s like the cool side of the pillow all night long. With advanced technology, it helps you drift off faster and stay comfortably asleep.

1. Temperature regulation

Designed to keep you cool on warmer nights and warm on cooler nights, they offer great body temperature regulation. This ensures you don’t wake up cold or overheated at night.

If you sleep with a partner, you’ll understand that it can be easy to overheat with double the body heat. Even 27% of people in our 2024 Sleep Survey said they end up feeling the heat a bit too much. But a cooling mattress will regulate both of your body temperatures, allowing you both to feel comfortable.

2. Reduced sweating

Those who sweat in their sleep know how uncomfortable it can be. Whether it’s due to nightmares, a fever, menopause, a medical condition, or just running hot, cooling mattresses may help. Their ability to absorb and release heat and moisture-wicking qualities reduce the likelihood of waking up damp or uncomfortable.

3. Enhanced comfort and support

Cooling mattresses also offer great support, combining pocket springs with the comfort of foam or breathable fabrics. This means you get the best of all worlds when sleeping, support for your body’s alignment and pressure points, and materials that mould to your body while maintaining a cooler temperature.

4. Improved sleep quality

Being well-supported with a comfortable and cooler mattress can help you sleep better by promoting deeper, more restful sleep. No matter your sleeping position or needs, a cooling mattress helps you stay at a comfortable temperature all night, preventing disruptions caused by overheating.

5. Saves energy

Nothing prepares the UK for summer heatwaves, and the temptation to have two fans running or get an air conditioning unit is high. But a cooling mattress will not only make you feel better once you lie down, but it will also do the job for you!

How do cooling mattresses work?

Cooling mattresses use different materials and advanced mattress technologies to keep you cool during sleep. Some of these may be:

• Gel-infused foam or gel layers for a cool touch on top
• Latex layers for a colder version of memory foam’s comfort
• Breathable natural materials, such as wool or cotton, that wick away heat
• Coil systems to increase airflow

All of this works together with the other mattress layers, including the support and comfort of springs or foam mixed with natural fabrics and soft covers to provide you with a cool night’s sleep. For more, take a look at what goes inside a mattress.

What are the types of cooling mattresses, and which is best for me?

There are a few different types of cooling mattresses, which all have their own benefits:

1. Gel mattresses

Containing a layer of zoned ActiGel® foam made with breathable open-cell structures, a gel mattress absorbs heat. Helping to disperse heat, it keeps the surface cooler. Combined with foam, the gel cushions your pressure points and regulates your body temperature.

Best for:

• Side and back sleepers
• Those who love the feel of memory foam
• Those who overheat at night

2. Latex mattresses

Also known as nature’s memory foam, latex mattresses contain a layer of natural latex on top of the springs or are sometimes combined with spring mattresses for a comfortable surface to sleep on. Due to their open-cell structure, latex mattresses are naturally breathable, provide excellent airflow, and tend to regulate temperature better than foam.

Sourced from the sap of rubber trees, these cooling mattresses are also great for allergy sufferers and those with aches and pains, as they have other pressure-relieving qualities.

Best for:

• Side and back sleepers
• Those who prefer the support and durability of springs
• Those who sleep hot

3. Natural mattresses

Made using breathable fabrics such as cotton, wool, mohair, and cashmere, natural mattresses offer two benefits: minimal environmental impact and natural temperature regulation with a moisture-wicking finish. This helps prevent overheating at night and sweating.

Not only this, but these cooling mattresses offer lasting durability and support and are great for those who suffer from allergies. You can sleep soundly without sneezing or waking up hot with antibacterial and hypoallergenic materials.

Best for:

• Side, back or front sleepers
• Those who like the support of springs but get hot at night
• Eco-conscious individuals
• Those with allergies

4. Hybrid mattresses

Also known as combination mattresses, these blend the stability and support of pocket or traditional springs with the luxurious comfort of foam, latex or gel. Offering the best of both worlds with a cooling effect.

Best for:

• Side and front sleepers
• Those who prefer the durability of springs and added comfort
• Those who sleep hot but want the extra support

5. Pocket spring mattresses

While not explicitly known as a cooling mattress, pocket spring mattresses can provide great support and airflow. With individually wrapped springs that allow air to move between them, pocket spring mattresses reduce heat retention and increase ventilation through the mattress. The addition of breathable fabrics known for their moisture-wicking qualities or gel or latex tops helps to absorb heat away from your body.

Best for:

• Side and front sleepers
• Those with back pain or joint issues and need support
• Couples as the springs help minimise motion transfer

Just to recap, here is a table that helps you understand which cooling mattress is best for you:

Cooling Mattress Maintenance

A little care goes a long way to keep your cooling mattress performing at its best. Here are some simple tips to help extend its lifespan and maintain its cooling benefits:

• Use a breathable mattress protector – A lightweight, moisture-wicking protector helps prevent sweat and dust build-up without trapping heat, keeping your mattress fresh.
• Rotate your mattress regularly – Turning your mattress every few months ensures even wear, helping to maintain comfort and support over time.
• Clean your mattress as needed – Vacuuming your mattress occasionally helps remove dust and allergens. If spills happen, spot clean with a mild detergent and let it air dry fully.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a cooler, more comfortable sleep for years to come.

How else can I stay cool at night?

As well as choosing a cooling mattress, you’ll need to consider your bedding, such as cooling mattress toppers, protectors, duvets and even pillows. Designed to be lightweight and cool to the touch, check out our cooling bedding to help keep you comfortable all night long, no matter the time of the year. Here are a few more simple ways you stay cool:

• Wear breathable pyjamas (cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking fabrics).
• Keep your bedroom curtains closed during the day to block heat.
• Use a cooling fan for extra cooling.
• Take a lukewarm shower before bed to lower your body temperature
• Maintain a cool bedroom environment

For more tips, explore our 26 ways to stay cool at night.

Find the right cooling mattress for you at Dreams

At Dreams, we offer a range of cooling mattresses for you to sleep comfortably on throughout warmer months and through the colder months if you’re prone to overheating. With our 100-Night Comfort Guarantee, you can try a cooling mattress, and if you’re not happy with it, we will swap it for something that’s a better fit for you.

To find your perfect mattress design, take our Sleepmatch quiz or visit one of our stores to speak to our experts.