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The Benefits of a Cooling Mattress and How They Work

Waking up sweating or getting hot during the night isn’t ideal and can contribute to a poor night’s rest. While fans and lightweight bedding help, they don’t always solve the problem. What if your mattress could regulate temperature and keep you cool throughout the night? In this guide, we explore how cooling mattresses work, their benefits for sleep quality, and the different types available.

What is a cooling mattress?

Who are cooling mattresses 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


Two people carring a mattress off a Dreams delivery van.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

  • 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

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

1. Gel mattresses

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

2. Latex mattresses

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

3. Natural mattresses

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

4. Hybrid mattresses

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

5. Pocket spring mattresses

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

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

Mattress Type Best For Cooling Method
Gel Mattresses Side & back sleepers, memory foam lovers Gel-infused foam disperses heat
Latex Mattresses Hot sleepers, allergy sufferers Naturally breathable open-cell structure
Natural Mattresses Eco-conscious, those wanting moisture-wicking fabrics Wool, cotton, and cashmere for airflow
Hybrid Mattresses Those wanting both support & cooling Springs + cooling foam for a balance
Pocket Spring Mattresses Couples, back pain sufferers Springs allow airflow, and optional cooling layers

Cooling Mattress Maintenance

  • 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.

How else can I stay cool at night?

  • 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

Find the right cooling mattress for you at Dreams

Ideas & Guides

Our Inspiration & Advice hub is jam-packed with helpful buying guides, inspirational interior ideas, and articles from our Sleep Matters Club website. We hope you enjoy reading it all.