Choosing a mattress is a big decision, and UK retailer Dreams offers one of the widest selections available. This comprehensive review and buying guide examines the entire range of Dreams mattresses, focusing on comfort, durability, materials, pricing, and real customer feedback.

We’ll cover an overview of Dreams as a brand, break down the different mattress types they offer (memory foam, pocket sprung, hybrid, orthopaedic, etc.), highlight key features and benefits of each, weigh the pros and cons of Dreams mattresses, compare them with competitors, analyze common customer reviews, and offer tips on choosing and maintaining the right mattress.

If you’re researching Dreams mattress reviews or looking for an informed buying guide, read on for all the details – without the sales pitch.

White pillows and a rumpled white blanket on a bed against a dark wood-paneled wall. Calm and cozy setting. — Dreams is one of the UK's leading bed and mattress retailers

Dreams as a Brand: An Overview

Dreams is one of the UK’s leading bed and mattress retailers, established in 1985. The company has grown to over 200 stores nationwide and even operates its own mattress factory in the UK.

In fact, Dreams sells mattresses from over 10 different brands, including well-known British names like Silentnight and Hypnos, as well as global brands such as Tempur and Sealy. Alongside these, Dreams also offers its own in-house mattress lines, produced in the “Dreams Workshop,” which allows them to craft mattresses domestically and offer exclusive models.

Dreams 100 Night Comfort Guarantee

As a brand, Dreams emphasizes helping customers find the right fit. They provide a 100-night comfort guarantee, meaning if you’re not happy with your new mattress in the first 30–100 nights, they’ll exchange it for an alternative. Many Dreams stores also feature a Sleepmatch machine, a high-tech bed that assesses your pressure points and sleeping position to recommend a suitable mattress (though some experts note these machines aren’t foolproof).

Overall, Dreams has built a reputation on variety, convenience (including online shopping and free delivery), and a broad price range to suit most budgets. Next, let’s delve into the types of mattresses you’ll find in Dreams’ lineup and what each offers.

Memory Foam Mattresses at Dreams

Memory foam mattresses are a popular choice for those who prefer a “sinking-in” plush comfort. Dreams offers a range of memory foam options, from affordable rolled foam mattresses to premium brands like TEMPUR. Memory foam uses viscoelastic material that molds around your body’s contours, providing luxurious pressure relief and good spine alignment. This can be especially beneficial if you experience aches and pains, as the foam cushions joints and reduces pressure on areas like shoulders and hips.

Key Features & Benefits of Memory Foam:

Pressure Relief: Memory foam cleverly moulds to your body, relieving pressure points while keeping you supported. This can improve comfort for side sleepers and those with joint pain.
Motion Isolation: The foam absorbs movement, so you’re less likely to feel a partner tossing and turning at night. This makes it a good choice for couples who are light sleepers.
Spinal Support: By contouring to your shape, it helps maintain proper spinal alignment for back and side sleepers, potentially reducing morning stiffness.
Range of Firmness: Despite its reputation for softness, memory foam mattresses at Dreams come in various comfort grades from Soft to Very Firm . This means even those who need a firmer feel can find a memory foam or foam-combination mattress to suit.
Materials: Many memory foam models include advanced foams (gel-infused, graphite-infused, etc.) to enhance cooling or support. For example, some Dreams-exclusive TheraPur mattresses use ActiGel foam (a type of enhanced memory foam) for improved airflow and cooling.

Potential Drawbacks: Memory foam’s “hugging” feel isn’t for everyone. It can retain heat more than spring mattresses – some users report heat retention as an issue, especially with high-density foams. Additionally, memory foam mattresses are typically one-sided (not flippable), so you’ll need to rotate them regularly to minimize body impressions over time. We’ll discuss maintenance tips later, but keep in mind that proper care is needed to ensure durability, as some lower-end foam beds may soften or sag faster if not rotated.

Pocket Sprung Mattresses at Dreams

Pocket sprung mattresses are the bread-and-butter of traditional mattress comfort, and Dreams carries a vast selection of them. These mattresses contain hundreds or even thousands of individually wrapped coil springs, each in its own fabric “pocket.” Because each spring moves independently, a key benefit is that movement on one side of the bed is less likely to disturb the other side. This makes pocket spring beds a great choice for couples (especially compared to old-style connected springs). They also tend to have a bouncy, responsive feel and strong support.

Key Features & Benefits of Pocket Springs:

Independent Support: Each spring responds on its own, contouring to your body shape while minimizing partner disturbance from motion. If you or your partner are active sleepers, a pocket sprung mattress helps ensure you both sleep undisturbed – a big plus for light sleepers.
Support for All Positions: Pocket spring mattresses come in a wide range of firmness levels (Dreams rates them from Soft to Very Firm). You can find a plush pillow-top pocket sprung mattress that suits side sleepers, or an extra-firm orthopaedic grade model for back support. The construction inherently provides good support for back and stomach sleepers by keeping the spine aligned when using the correct firmness.
Breathability: The space between springs allows for airflow. Many pocket sprung models are padded with layers of fillings (like wool, cotton, or foam) – these materials plus the air circulation generally make springs sleep cooler than all-foam mattresses. Hot sleepers who found memory foam too warm often prefer the cooler feel of a spring core.
Durability & Edge Support: A well-made pocket sprung bed (especially those with higher spring counts or reinforced edges) tends to hold its shape and support longer. You’ll also find that many have firm or foam-encased edges, meaning you can sit or sleep near the edge without it collapsing much – useful if you utilize the full bed surface.

Dreams’ pocket spring range spans from budget-friendly models to high-end hand-tufted mattresses. For instance, their Flaxby collection (a luxury line made with natural fillings) uses thousands of springs and even mini-springs for extra comfort, in line with traditional craftsmanship.

On the budget end, Dreams also offers simpler pocket spring designs and even open spring (traditional Bonnell coil) mattresses for entry-level prices. (Open coil, where springs are linked in a continuous coil, are less adaptive than pocket springs and can transfer motion, but they do come at a lower cost – suitable for occasional use or spare bedrooms.)

Overall, if you want a classic mattress feel with proven support, pocket sprung options are abundant at Dreams.

Hybrid (Combination) Mattresses at Dreams

Can’t decide between foam or springs? Hybrid mattresses (also called combination mattresses) offer a bit of both. Dreams has embraced this popular category with many of their models – hybrids typically feature a base of pocket springs for support, topped with layers of foam, latex, or gel for comfort. The idea is to marry the stable support and airflow of springs with the pressure-relieving comfort of foam. According to Dreams’ own guide, a combination mattress “blends the stability of pocket or open springs with the luxury of a memory foam, latex or gel layer”, delivering support plus a plush feel.

Key Features & Benefits of Hybrids:

Balanced Comfort: Hybrids aim to give the “best of both worlds.” The spring core prevents that overly sinking feeling and adds bounce, while the foam or latex top layers provide cushioning and contouring for pressure relief. This balance often appeals to side sleepers who need softness for the shoulder/hip, as well as front sleepers who still need support underneath .
Reduced Motion & Noise: With foams absorbing movement on top and pocket springs below, a well-made hybrid isolates motion nearly as well as an all-foam bed. Plus, pocket springs are quiet compared to old innersprings, so hybrids are generally noise-free. Couples can enjoy both motion isolation and a bit of bounce for ease of movement.
Specialized Foams (Gel, Latex): Many hybrid designs use advanced comfort materials. For example, Dreams’ exclusive TheraPur ActiGel mattresses include a breathable gel foam layer that not only cushions the body but also helps regulate temperature (. Gel-infused memory foam or open-cell foams in hybrids can mitigate the heat build-up issue. Similarly, some hybrids use latex, a natural rubber foam that has a more responsive feel and is hypoallergenic – these provide contouring like memory foam but with a little more spring-back and usually sleep cooler.
Supportive Base: The pocket spring base in hybrids often features zoned support (firmer coils in certain areas like lumbar region) in higher-end models. This means hybrids can be very supportive for your spine. Many people with back pain choose a medium-firm hybrid to get the pressure relief without sacrificing support.

At Dreams, most mid-range to premium mattresses are hybrids. Whether it’s a brand like Silentnight combining springs with a memory foam pillow top, or Dreams’ own Dream Team and Therapur ranges using proprietary foam layers over springs, there’s a wide selection. Just keep in mind, as with pure foam beds, most hybrids are one-sided (the foam is only on one side of the spring unit), so regular rotation is necessary to prolong their life.

Some customers have reported sagging or dipping in hybrids over time, especially if the mattress isn’t cared for or if it’s an entry-level build. Choosing a well-reviewed model and following care guidelines (more on that later) will help avoid these issues.

Orthopaedic (Firm Support) Mattresses at Dreams

For those who need extra-firm support, Dreams offers a range of orthopaedic mattresses. Orthopaedic isn’t a material type per se; it’s a category of mattresses designed for optimal spinal alignment and firm, targeted support. These mattresses are ideal if you have back or joint pain, or simply prefer a firmer, more supportive feel. In Dreams’ lineup, you’ll find the term “Ortho” on some models (e.g., Dream Team Helmsdale Ortho) which often are firmer-rated pocket sprung hybrids, as well as very firm traditional mattresses.

In Dreams stores, you can test orthopaedic mattresses across different brands – for example, Sealy’s Posturepedic range (built with input from orthopaedic experts) or Dreams’ own TheraPur Ortho mattresses which combine very firm spring units with foam/gel for comfort. If you have specific back issues, it’s wise to try these in person. Also consider that “firm” can feel different between models – one brand’s firm might be another’s medium-firm. Dreams labels each mattress with a comfort grade, which can guide you, but personal feel matters most.

Note: Just because a mattress is called orthopaedic doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone with back pain. Some back-pain sufferers actually do better with medium-firm for pressure relief. The term indicates a design philosophy of support. Always consider your preferred sleep position and body needs.

Other Mattress Types in Dreams’ Range

Beyond the big four categories above, Dreams’ range also includes some niche types:

Gel Mattresses: These are essentially a sub-type of hybrid or foam mattress that use a layer of cooling gel-infused foam (such as ActiGel® in the TheraPur line). The benefit is a cooler, more breathable sleep surface that still contours to your body. If you tend to overheat at night, a gel hybrid mattress could be a smart choice, as it dissipates heat better than standard memory foam while cushioning pressure points.
Latex Mattresses: Latex is sometimes called “nature’s memory foam.” Dreams offers latex hybrid mattresses that have a layer of natural latex (often on pocket springs) to give a responsive, supportive feel. Latex foam moulds to the body and evenly distributes weight (helpful for aches and pains), but unlike memory foam it recovers its shape quickly, so you don’t get a lingering “sunk” feeling. Latex is also naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, a plus for allergy sufferers . These mattresses typically appeal to those who want a bit of contouring but a bouncier, more “on the mattress” feel than memory foam.
Traditional Spring (Open Coil): As mentioned, Dreams does sell some traditional spring mattresses, often at lower price points or in kids’ ranges. These contain interconnected coils. They can provide decent support initially and are very affordable, but they usually have a shorter lifespan and more motion transfer compared to pocket springs. If you’re on a tight budget or need a temporary solution, they are an option, but for long-term comfort, most adults will prefer pocket sprung or foam/hybrid options.
Adjustable and Specialty Mattresses: Dreams also caters to specific needs like adjustable bed mattresses (for use on motorized bases), which tend to be foam or pocket sprung with flexible construction, and mattresses with natural fillings (e.g. wool, cashmere) for those who prefer eco-friendly materials. These are more specialized but part of the extensive Dreams lineup.

Having this wide variety under one roof is a strength of Dreams – you can compare memory foam vs. spring vs. hybrid side by side in their showroom. Next, let’s evaluate the general pros and cons of buying a mattress from Dreams, based on features and customer experiences.

Pros and Cons of Dreams Mattresses

Pros:

Wide Range of Choice: Dreams offers an almost unparalleled selection of mattress types and brands in one place. Whether you want memory foam, pocket sprung, latex, hybrid, or an orthopaedic design, there’s something for every comfort preference and budget. They carry budget options as well as high-end luxury mattresses up to ~£3000, so you can one-stop shop and compare many products.
In-Store Experience and Expert Advice: With over 200 stores in the UK and the Sleepmatch assessment technology, Dreams makes it easy to try mattresses in person and get tailored recommendations. Many customers report positive store experiences with knowledgeable staff. Being able to lie down on various beds and feel the differences is a huge advantage over buying blind online.
In-House Brands Offer Value: Dreams’ own mattress lines (such as those made in the Dreams Workshop) are often good value for the money, providing similar specs to big-name brands at lower cost. By manufacturing in-house and selling directly, Dreams can price these models competitively.
Convenient Services: When purchasing from Dreams, you benefit from services like free delivery, old mattress recycling, and the 100-Night Comfort Guarantee (exchange policy). These add peace of mind – for example, if you get the mattress home and it’s too firm or too soft, you can swap it for another model within the trial window. Few brick-and-mortar retailers offer this kind of comfort trial, putting Dreams more on par with online mattress companies’ trial periods. Financing options and removal of your old bed are also available, making the buying process easier.
Customer Support and Reputation: As a large, well-established retailer, Dreams has an accessible customer support system. They are generally responsive in handling delivery scheduling, exchanges, and any issues. The company often highlights that it’s among the UK’s most recommended bed retailers (they’ve maintained a high Trustpilot score in recent years). Many buyers praise Dreams for smooth delivery and helpful after-sales service, contributing to its positive reputation.

Cons:

Durability Concerns on Some Models: Despite good initial comfort, some Dreams mattresses may not hold up as long as expected. There are complaints of sagging or dipping after a relatively short period on certain models. For example, plush pillow-top designs or one-sided mattresses (which can’t be flipped) are reported to develop indentations. One customer mentioned a high-end TheraPur ActiGel mattress “completely gave out” within 6 months, losing support and causing back pain. While not every mattress will have issues, these reports suggest that buyers should pay attention to build quality, rotate their mattress diligently, and manage expectations on lifespan (especially for lower-end products).
Higher Price Tags for Premium Lines: Dreams covers all price ranges, but some of their upper-tier offerings (e.g. handcrafted luxury mattresses or branded products like Tempur) come with premium prices – often in the thousands of pounds. In some cases, similar specifications might be found cheaper through online-only brands due to lower overhead. If you’re shopping at Dreams, you might pay a bit more for the convenience and service, especially if you don’t catch a sale. Always compare the value: for instance, a £1000 hybrid at Dreams vs. a £700 online equivalent – is the difference justified by features, warranty, and service? Sometimes yes, sometimes no.
Inconsistent Longevity in Budget Options: At the budget end (under ~£500), some of Dreams’ mattresses (e.g. basic foam or open coil models) use cheaper materials. These can be great short-term or spare room beds, but they inevitably have a shorter shelf-life and may sag faster. A common complaint is that an inexpensive one-sided mattress felt wonderful in the showroom but lost comfort within a couple of years of nightly use. Essentially, you often “get what you pay for” in terms of component quality. This isn’t unique to Dreams, but worth noting if you’re drawn in by a very low price tag.
Limited Refunds (Exchange Only): While the 100-night comfort guarantee is a plus, it’s an exchange policy, not a refund. This means if you truly don’t like the mattress, you can swap it for another in the range, but you generally can’t get your money back (unless there’s a clear product fault). Some online competitors offer full refunds within their trial periods. If you’re indecisive, you might feel a bit locked in with an exchange. That said, most people do find a suitable replacement via the exchange if the first pick isn’t right.
Competitive Online Market: Dreams faces stiff competition from direct-to-consumer mattress brands (like Emma, Nectar, Simba, DreamCloud, etc.), which often provide generous trials and lower pricing. “Some popular brands are sold direct to customers online for less money or more perks”, one review site cautions, so savvy shoppers should compare deals. For example, an online brand might throw in free pillows or a longer warranty. Dreams does price-match in some cases, but not always. This isn’t a knock on Dreams’ products, but a reminder that value can be relative – it’s wise to weigh the features and perks of competitors in a similar price bracket.

In summary, Dreams excels in choice, service, and convenience, but as with any retailer, the quality and longevity of mattresses vary across the range. Now, let’s look at what real customers commonly say about their Dreams mattress purchases, and what insights you can glean from their experiences.

Dreams Mattress Review Conclusion

Dreams’ mattress range is extensive and caters to virtually every type of sleeper. In this review and guide, we’ve covered how the company’s offerings stack up in terms of comfort, durability, materials, and price, with insights from real customers.

To recap briefly:

Dreams as a brand brings experience (decades in business) and a huge selection under one roof, including their own UK-made mattresses and leading brands. They pair this with helpful services like in-store trials, Sleepmatch tech, and a 100-night exchange guarantee for a low-risk purchase.
Mattress types available range from body-hugging memory foam to breathable pocket springs, versatile hybrids, and firm orthopaedic models. Each comes with its own set of benefits: memory foam for pressure relief, among others like cooling gel and natural latex options.
Pros and cons highlight that while Dreams offers convenience, variety, and good initial comfort (often with high customer service marks), buyers should be mindful of longevity and value. Some models have shown durability issues like sagging after a few years, so it’s crucial to pick the right mattress for your needs and care for it. Price-wise, there are great values to be found, but also be aware of the rich online competition and make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck.
Customer feedback is generally positive about comfort and service, but mixed on long-term satisfaction. Many love their mattress; some had to exchange or found it didn’t last as hoped. Taking advantage of trials, warranties, and doing your research (hopefully aided by this guide!) will tilt the odds in your favor.
Buying considerations were discussed to help you decide which type suits you – always factor in your sleeping position, any health concerns (like back pain or allergies), whether you sleep hot, and if you share the bed. There’s no one “best” mattress for everyone, but there is likely a best type for you. For example, side sleepers with hip pain might zero in on a plush memory foam hybrid, whereas a back sleeper with a larger build might choose an extra-firm orthopaedic spring mattress.
Maintenance is the final piece of the puzzle. Whichever mattress you choose, simple care routines like rotating regularly, protecting it, and keeping it clean will ensure it stays comfortable for as long as possible.

In a nutshell, Dreams mattresses offer something for everyone – the key is to utilize that variety to your advantage. Try in-store if you can, read reviews on specific models, and don’t hesitate to ask questions about the materials and construction. A mattress is a long-term investment in your well-being, so making an informed decision is worth the effort. With the information in this guide, you’re well-equipped to navigate Dreams’ range and find a mattress that will help you get the sound, restorative sleep you deserve. Sweet dreams!

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