Single Memory Foam Mattresses

Why choose a single memory foam mattress?

Memory foam softens in response to body heat and pressure, allowing it to contour around your shape. This creates the close, cushioned feel the material is known for and can help reduce pressure around areas such as the shoulders and hips.

In a single size, you get those benefits in a compact 90cm x 190cm (3ft x 6ft 3in) mattress, offering a practical option for solo adults, growing teenagers and guest bedrooms.

Depending on the mattress you choose, a single memory foam mattress can offer:

• Body-contouring comfort that adapts to your shape

• Cushioning around common pressure points such as the shoulders and hips

• Very little noise from full memory foam constructions

• A choice of full memory foam and pocket-sprung hybrid designs

• Cooling features such as gel-infused foam or breathable cover fabrics on selected mattresses

How to choose the right single memory foam mattress

Start with the way you sleep and the type of feel you enjoy. Memory foam can range from gently cushioned to much firmer, so compare the mattress firmness, construction, depth and comfort layers rather than assuming every foam mattress will feel the same.

If the mattress is for a guest room, also think about who will use it most often and how regularly. For everyday adult use, body weight, sleeping position and preferred firmness can all influence which option feels most comfortable.

Full memory foam vs hybrid single mattress

A full memory foam mattress uses foam for both comfort and support. It can suit you if you like a close, cushioned feel and want a mattress without springs.

A single hybrid mattress combines memory foam with springs, often pocket springs. This gives you the cushioning of memory foam with a slightly bouncier feel underneath. The springs can also help air move through the mattress, which may appeal if you tend to sleep hot.

Neither option is automatically better. Choose according to whether you prefer deeper contouring or a more responsive, spring-supported feel. Use the comparison below as a starting point, then check the firmness and specification of the individual mattress.

Firmness and comfort

Memory foam does not have one set firmness. The current range includes soft, medium, medium firm and firm options, so use the stated firmness as a starting point and then consider the complete construction.

Side sleepers often look for enough cushioning around the shoulders and hips, while back and front sleepers may prefer a more supportive mattress with less sink. Combination sleepers may want a balanced feel that makes it easier to change positions. Your body weight and personal preference will also affect how firm a mattress feels.

Thickness and density

The thickness of the memory foam can affect how much you sink into the mattress, while the density can influence how the foam feels and how well it holds up over time. Neither tells you exactly how firm a mattress will feel.

Not every manufacturer provides foam density, so don’t worry if you can’t find it. Instead, look at the stated firmness, mattress depth and overall design when comparing your options.

Temperature

Traditional memory foam can retain warmth because it responds closely to the body, but modern mattresses can include features designed to improve airflow or create a cooler night's sleep.

If you tend to sleep hot, look for features such as cooling gel-infused foam, open-cell foams, breathable covers or a hybrid construction with springs. These can all influence how the mattress manages heat.

Look at the mattress as a whole rather than relying on one cooling feature. The amount of foam, the support system, cover fabric and bedroom temperature can all affect how warm or cool the mattress feels during the night.

Check the individual product specification to see which cooling features are included in the single mattress you are considering.

Key benefits of a single memory foam mattress

Memory foam is best known for adapting around the body rather than pushing back with the bounce of traditional springs. This can spread pressure more evenly and cushion areas such as the shoulders, hips and lower back.

That contouring can also help you settle into a comfortable sleeping position and maintain a well-supported posture through the night. If you have back or joint pain, focus on the firmness and construction that feels comfortable for you rather than assuming a firmer mattress is automatically better. A mattress cannot diagnose or treat the cause of pain.

Full memory foam designs also absorb movement well and contain no spring unit, making them a quiet option. Motion isolation is less important on a single bed than on a shared mattress, but it can still contribute to a more settled sleep if you move around during the night.

UK single memory foam mattress dimensions

A standard UK single memory foam mattress measures 90cm x 190cm, or 3ft x 6ft 3in. This size is commonly used for solo adults, teenagers and guest bedrooms, offering a full-length mattress without taking up as much floor space as a double bed.

Before ordering a memory foam mattress for a single bed, measure the inside of your bed frame and check that it is designed for a standard UK single. European single beds and some non-standard frames can use different dimensions.

Are single memory foam mattresses suitable for allergies?

Some single memory foam mattresses are described as hypoallergenic or designed to resist dust mites. MattressNextDay lets you filter the range by hypoallergenic features.

However, this does not apply to every memory foam mattress. If allergies are important to you, check the individual product specification and cover materials rather than assuming that memory foam alone makes a mattress hypoallergenic.

Using a suitable mattress protector and following the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions can also help keep your mattress fresh. For more advice, read our guide to the best mattresses for allergy sufferers. 

Why shop at MattressNextDay?

Next-day delivery - Eligible in-stock mattresses can be delivered the next day across the UK mainland.

Lowest price promise - Compare single memory foam mattresses with extra reassurance on price.

Old mattress removal - Add our removal service, and we’ll collect your old mattress when your new one is delivered.

Excellent reviews - Read verified customer reviews to help you make a more informed choice.

Award-winning retailer - Buy with confidence from a three-time NBF Online Bed Retailer of the Year.

British-designed quality - Explore British-designed mattresses made with carefully selected materials.

Not sure which mattress is right for you?

Tell us about your sleep style, preferred firmness and budget. MattressFinder™ will help narrow down the range to mattresses that could suit you. Find your perfect mattress.

Delivery, recycling and guarantees

Free next-day delivery to most locations - Need your new mattress quickly? Free next-day delivery is available on eligible in-stock mattresses across the UK mainland.

Free weekend delivery - At MattressNextDay, we offer weekend delivery slots to help you arrange delivery around your plans.

Choose a delivery date - Select your preferred delivery date at checkout, where available.

Learn more about our delivery and returns policies.

We make old mattress disposal easy for you

Just £39 to responsibly dispose of your old mattress - Add old mattress removal at checkout for £39, and we’ll collect your old mattress when your new one is delivered.

100% of your mattress is reused and recycled - Your old mattress is separated into its core components so the materials can be repurposed. 100% of the mattress is reused and recycled, avoiding landfill.

A greener way to get rid of your old mattress - Skip the hassle of organising disposal yourself. Our collection service offers a simpler (and greener) way to dispose of your old mattress.

Find a great value single memory foam mattress

Looking for a single memory foam mattress at the right price? Browse the latest MattressNextDay sale to compare offers across different mattress types, firmness levels and trusted brands. Shop mattress sale.

Ask the expert about single memory foam mattresses

Choosing a new mattress can come with plenty of questions. Our product experts are here to provide clear, practical answers and help you feel more confident about your choice.

Martin Seeley, Product Expert at MattressNextDay, answers questions about single memory foam mattresses.

How long does a single memory foam mattress take to expand?

A memory foam mattress that arrives rolled or vacuum-packed will need time to expand after you remove the packaging. It may look close to its full size within a few hours, but some mattresses can take longer to fully settle.

Follow the instructions supplied with your mattress, as expansion times can vary between products.

Why does a new memory foam mattress smell?

A new memory foam mattress can have a noticeable smell when first removed from its packaging, particularly if it has been vacuum-packed. This is often referred to as off-gassing and should become less noticeable as the mattress airs.

Keep the room well ventilated and follow the manufacturer’s setup instructions before using your mattress.

Can I use a single memory foam mattress on any bed base?

Not necessarily. Memory foam mattresses need a supportive base, but the types of bases they can be used with vary by product. Divans, platform bases and suitable slatted bed frames may all be options.

If you’re using slats, check the manufacturer’s guidance on the maximum gap between them. Using an unsuitable base could affect how the mattress performs and may also affect its guarantee.

Can I use an electric blanket with a memory foam mattress?

Yes, but take care when using an electric blanket with memory foam. Memory foam responds to heat, so prolonged or excessive heat could soften the foam and potentially affect its shape.

Keep the electric blanket on a moderate setting and avoid prolonged direct heat against the mattress. Always check the care instructions for both your mattress and electric blanket before using them together.

Do I need to turn a memory foam mattress?

Many memory foam mattresses are designed to be used on one side and should not be flipped. Some may still need rotating from head to foot to encourage even wear.

Always follow the care instructions for your mattress, as recommendations can vary. For more advice, read our guide on how often to flip or turn your mattress. 

Can I get next-day delivery on a single memory foam mattress?

Free next-day delivery is available on eligible in-stock single memory foam mattresses across the UK mainland. Before ordering, check the delivery information for your chosen mattress to confirm the latest availability.