Free Mattress Buying Guide

TAKE OUR MATTRESS QUIZ
March 2020

Tempur mattress UK alternatives & comparison models

We often get asked what other mattresses are suitable alternatives to Tempur's collection of memory foam mattresses. Whilst you can never guarantee an exact feel there are always similar models to those found in major retailers. The best way to do this is to be able to compare the exact structure and composition of the models. If you want to find out what mattresses are close to Tempur's range in terms of feel and construction read on.

Updated 2020: Tempur UK mattresses have a range of mattresses made of ‘open-celled viscoelastic, pressure-relieving and temperature sensitive material‘ known as Tempur foam. So we are basing these Tempur UK mattress comparisons on the similar feels but not necessarily chemical composition or brand names of these foams as only Temur themselves sell their proprietary foam.

A freshly made bed

Some of the Tempur UK models use castellated foams which we discuss further on that affects the behaviour of foams. Tempur mattresses are loved by many who want a slow sink feeling in their mattress. It’s a very specific mattress comfort feel so it’s always best to trial one first to see if their memory style foam is suitable for you and your sleeping patterns. Some people, for example, find it really warm and restrictive, whereas others love the snug sinking feeling!

Which mattresses are similar to Tempur UK mattresses?

We would need to be one of the trusted few that know Tempur’s secret foam recipe, and also would need a multi-million-pound manufacturing facility and loads of expensive legal licenses and marketing rights to compare like for like, so we are not for one minute claiming to do that here. If you want to find out more about who Tempur are, read on here.

However, based on feedback from customers and our team, we have written this to discuss what feels similar to these mattresses. If you really like the exact feel of a Tempur we always advise you should go buy a Tempur.

Given the fact that Tempur doesn’t disclose the density of their foam it does make it difficult to accurately compare, words like soft, medium and firm can be very broad and so only with an exact density can a like for like comparison be made.

The Tempur UK mattress range

Tempur has four mattress model ranges in the UK

The TEMPUR range has recently been rebranded in the UK from their number system, which indicated the depth, to a new naming range. We now have the Luxe, Elite & Supreme model in each range.

The Luxe is the deepest 30cm, most expensive, of each of the ranges, the Elite is the midpoint 25cm and the Supreme the entry level at 21cm deep. You can see the heights of the mattresses on the TEMPUR website indicate the depth of the fillings. After our comments on a clearer foam depth and detail on their website, it looks like they now clearly display the layers. However, there is still no real detail on the density or hardness sadly!

The old Tempur models used to come in three different sizes or model numbers for each of the mattress ranges above. TEMPUR 21, TEMPUR 22 Deluxe and the TEMPUR 27 Deluxe which is the model we closely compare to. When looking at older models you will need to bear this in mind.

From what we can see the number refers to the overall height of the mattress in centimetres (cm) such as the Tempur Cloud Deluxe 27 is also 27cm in overall depth. It is still not clear what the term ‘Deluxe’ refers to other than a model name, maybe to separate out the deeper models from the 21cm standard size.

Did you know what all TEMPUR mattresses are one sided? You can't turn them like a regular mattress.
Did you know what all TEMPUR mattresses are one sided? You can't turn them like a regular mattress.
Why not choose a 2-sided alternative model? Extending the longevity of your bed.
Why not choose a 2-sided alternative model? Extending the longevity of your bed.

Tempur Contour/Original comparison

The Tempur Contour/Original model is the firmest of the Tempur range and was the original model they first released.  Given the fact, the foam is heat sensitive this model feels very firm in cold temperatures or cold rooms. Having slept on one, it does take a while for the foam to start to mould unless you’re a really warm sleeper. We don’t have a comparison model to this mattress as we find most of our customers don’t want such a firm mattress, especially in a foam mattress.

Tempur Cloud comparison

The Tempur Cloud model is the softest in their range which we compare to our Hybrid 4. The inclusion of a total of 4cm of ES Tempur foam (ES stands for extra soft) in the top comfort layer gives an immediate sink feel with this model.

The support layer is made up of 7cm of Tempur support foam (no density given), and then two 8cm durable support foam layers which are cut to castellated foam to give a softer feel to the support layer. This foam looks a bit like an egg box shape in castellation. The raised parts of the foam compress faster than a standard foam but there is also an argument that they degrade quickly as the shapes can break and crumble over time. This is why we don’t use castellated or specially cut foams. This model gives a medium feel support for most body weights up to 15 stone in our experience.

It is the top layer that gives the soft sink sensation, hence the term ‘Cloud’.

Our Hybrid 4 model is a close alternative to the Tempur Cloud. There are however some differences though between the two. Our Hybrid 4 features a separate deep 7.5cm laygel topper. This gives that soft feel in the top layer but is also fully turnable and removable. Settlement and dips are always a problem with a one-sided mattress and our article goes into some detail on this. This helps extend the life of the mattress as you can turn and rotate this monthly evening out wear.

Hybrid 4 Mattress

The Hybrid 4 also has a 6cm 60kg Vasco (memory foam) foam as the top layer of the core mattress. This slows down the sinking feeling preventing the mattress from becoming too soft. The 7.5cm laygel layer under this gives some rebound and bounce back to the mattress. Again helping give progressive support like the memory foam. The reflex base, which could be compared to the Tempur supporting base layer which is how they provide the support, gives the support necessary to give it an overall medium support but with a soft feel in the top comfort layers.

In addition to this, our Hybrid 4 comes with a tape edged damask cover that is topped with a John Ryan stretch knit cover. The tape edge cover comes with handles to aid the rotating of the core mattress.  Given how heavy these mattresses can be the handles help making rotating easier. The Tempur mattress doesn’t have handles, just a polyester branded cover.

Hybrid 4Tempur Cloud 27
CoverMicro-quilt John Ryan Cover with tape edged damask sides1.5cm extra soft quilted polyester cover
17.5cm 60kg Laygel2.5cm Extra Soft layer Tempur Foam
26cm 40kg Memory Foam7cm comfortable layer Tempur Foam
35cm 60kg Laygel8cm Durable base layer
410cm Reflex Support Foam8cm Durable base layer
Total Depth28.5cm + 3-5cm for the quilted cover27cm

Tempur Sensation comparison

This Tempur model is the medium feel model in their range which we compare to our Hybrid 5. The inclusion of 1.5cm of ES Tempur foam in the top comfort layer and then 5cm of soft-touch comfort foam and 5cm of HM Tempur foam (high mobility) directly under this, this gives a medium feel in the top layers as the HM foam provides more support than the Cloud model which firms up the top layers.

The support layer has a castellated (cuts in the foam) durable base layer, which would be the first support layer on top of a durable support layer. The castellation makes the foam compress and expands faster than solid foam, in this instance the castellation looking like slots that have been removed from the top layer of the foam. This model gives a medium feel support for most body weights up to 15 stone based on our experience.

This is how the Sensation gets its spring factor from compared to the Original or Cloud.

Our Hybrid 5 has a 7.5cm Coolblue topper which gives a medium to firmer feel in the top layer. This topper is removable and tape edged.  It’s also really responsive so allows you to sink in quicker than the 85kg firmer foams. The 70kg density gives more support, similar to the medium feel of the Sensations comfort layer.

Hybrid 5 Mattress

Under the topper comfort layer sits the core mattress made up of 6cm 60kg Vasco (memory foam) foam as the top layer of the mattress. This slows down the sinking feeling preventing the mattress from becoming too soft. The 7.5cm laygel layer under this gives some rebound and bounce back to the mattress similar to the castellated (especially cut durable base layer)in the Tempur Sensation. The reflex base, under this specially cut durable base layer, gives the support to give it an overall medium responsive feel in both the support and in the top comfort layers.

Again our Hybrid 5 comes with a tape edged damask cover that is topped with a John Ryan stretch knit cover. The tape edge cover comes with handles to aid the rotating of the core mattress. The Tempur mattress comes without handles and is covered with a polyester branded cover.

Hybrid 5Tempur Sensation 27
CoverMicro-quilt John Ryan Cover with tape edged damask sides1.5cm extra soft quilted polyester cover
17.5cm 70kg Coolblue Foam2.5cm Extra Soft layer Tempur Foam
26cm 40kg Memory Foam7cm comfortable layer Tempur Foam
35cm 60kg Laygel8cm Durable base layer
410cm Reflex Support Foam8cm Durable base layer
Total Depth28.5cm + 3-5 cm for the quilted cover27cm

Tempur Hybrid Model Comparison

The Tempur Hybrid utilises both micro springs and Tempurs foams to provide what they claim is a more responsive nights sleep. This is probably to mitigate against the incredibly slow reactions of memory foam which can be read about in more detail here.

The Hybrid range uses Precision microcoils which are trademarked. As with many retail mattresses manufactures there is zero detail on these springs making them impossible to review or compare to. Without a gauge or tension equivalent, there’s nothing more we can say about these. You can read our guide to what you should look out for in pocket springs here.

We have written about the issues with boxed mattresses and springs in the past, the result is that they can only be stored for relatively short timespans, sometimes as short as 3 months before the spring units risk damage from contortion. I’m sure Tempur ship their goods much faster than this, but worth bearing in mind!

The closest comparison we have to this model is the Origins Pocket Latex 1500, though not a like for like comparison. For example, our model features medium gauge pocket springs, 1.4 gauge and a 6cm Talalay Latex layer on top of a wool silk pad. So it’s not an exact comparison, latex being widely acknowledged as a far superior material compared to synthetic man mad foams. Our Origins Latex 1500 retails at £810 for a kingsize compared to Tempurs £3349 for the Hybrid Lux! (Jan 2018 Prices)

Origins latex0025 3

American Tempur Models

In the USA, the Tempur range has recently rebranded to include three ranges with three/four models in each. There’s a much broader choice compared to the UK models when looking at their USA site. However, because they are not available in the UK we won’t be going into too much detail on these here. They are listed for informational purposes only.

  • TEMPUR-Contour Supreme (firm)
  • TEMPUR-Contour Elite (medium firm)
  • TEMPUR-Contour Rhapsody Luxe (medium firm)
  • TEMPUR-Cloud Prima (medium soft)
  • TEMPUR-Cloud Supreme (soft)
  • TEMPUR-Cloud Elite (extra soft)
  • TEMPUR-Cloud Lux (ultra soft)
  • TEMPUR-flex Prima (medium firm)
  • TEMPUR-flex Supreme (medium)
  • TEMPUR-flex Elite (medium soft)

Why is is hard to compare Tempur models?

It’s difficult to compare exactly to Tempur models as they don’t give the density of their Tempur foam. Whilst they do give the depth, which is more than most manufacturers, without the density you can’t accurately work out the tension or really how these layers will sit together. They also use Tempur’s own foam recipe which is a closely guarded secret making it impossible without their license to make the exact same foam.

Foam GradeDensity Min KG/M3Density Max KG/M3Hardness Min (n)Hardness Max (n)
Vasco 40kg38424060
Vasco 60kg586270100
Laygel 60kg5763100150
Coolblue 70kg657070100
Reflex 3003032100130
Reflex 300F3032130160

Tempur models available foam data

Tempur Original 27Tempur Sensation 27Tempur Cloud 27
Cover1.5cm TEMPUR Soft touch embedded in quilted polyester cover1.5cm TEMPUR ES (extra soft) embedded in quilted polyester cover1.5cm TEMPUR ES (extra soft) embedded in quilted polyester cover
14cm TEMPUR Soft touch comfort layer 5cm TEMPUR Soft touch comfort layer 2.5cm TEMPUR ES (extra Soft) layer Foam
26.5cm TEMPUR support layer 5.5cm TEMPUR HM (high mobility) support layer7cm TEMPUR Support layer
37.5cm Durable base layer 111cm Specially cut durable base layer (castellated foam)8cm Durable base layer 1
47.5cm Durable base layer 24cm Supporting base layer8cm Durable base layer 2
Total Depth27cm27cm27cm
Feel/TensionMedium / firmMediumMedium-soft

The drawbacks of one-sided mattresses

We have written extensively on one-sided mattresses and how this is a drawback as it means you can only use one side of the bed. These memory foam style mattresses and Tempur beds are the exceptions to the rule as their construction method mean they can only ever be one-sided if they were two-sided the softer top layers would be compressed and crushed over time making them useless. That said our Hybrid range has been designed with separate toppers to help alleviate the issues with one-sided mattresses. You can turn and rotate these fully extending the lifespan of your new mattress.

Differences in the covers

Our mattress covers are all tape edged, similar to the more traditional pocket sprung mattresses we hand make. Why do we do this? Simply, it’s the best cover method we have found. It gives support to the mattress making lifting and turning far easier than just a stretch polyester cover. The top sides always have a stretch knit fabric in a diamond quilt to allow you to get the full benefit of the softer foams beneath. The machine stitched sides give the mattress more strength if you do end up sitting on the edge and assist in moving the mattress during maintenance. If you used a damask on the top side it would impede the feel of the foams. There are no tufts so the sleeping surface is flat, which is a benefit for those who don’t like tufts.

Castellated or specially cut foams

The Tempur Cloud and Sensation both use different forms of castellated foam. A castellated foam is a foam that’s been cut or shaped to affect its tension or firmness. It can allow foams to become more springy, softer in the top layer or more flexible. We have found that there has been a criticism of castellated foams that the cuts and eggbox shapes degrade faster than a flat form foam. This would make sense given the areas cut would be more exposed than a flat slab of foam. For this reason, we have never used castellated foams. We prefer to pick a foam with the right properties rather than cutting or shaping it to become something else.

castellated foam john ryan

 

Alternative mattresses to Tempur?

If you’ve tried a Tempur and like that soft sink feeling but are put off by the issues around memory foams then Natural Latex is a great breathable alternative. Natural latex offers amazing progressive support and comfort but is far less heat retentive than synthetic foam mattresses. meaning it keeps you cooler in summer. The other benefit of a solid core  Natural latex mattress is they’re two-sided so you can sleep on both sides. This extends the lifespan of the mattress and helps reduce natural settlement. All of the Tempur mattresses in the UK are one sided, so you can’t turn them only rotate.

Benefits of Latex Mattresses:

  • It’s a natural material and not synthetic
  • Breathable unlike memory foams
  • Two-sided so can be turned
  • Has a far longer lifespan
  • Responds to pressure not bodyheat
Fusion 4 mattress on Hazel Base
Latex mattresses offer a similar feel to memory foam but without the drawbacks.
Summary

We must be clear and in the interests of fairness to Tempur that we can’t confirm that any of our models are exactly like Tempur’s models. This article exists to discuss similar models that may have a comparable feel to the mattresses listed above.  Tempur is very a reputable company who have funded the initial discovery of its Tempur foam which in some way has led to the memory foam revolution over the past 20 years.

Feel is a subjective term and everyone interprets comfort in slightly different ways. One thing that is certain is that we provide you with both the density, depth and data sheets required to make an informed decision on your hybrid or memory foam mattress choice. Lastly, any high-quality mattress will be heavy as they contain lots of deep layers of foam or upholstery contained within. Therefore to aid mattress turning handles and a high-quality cover is essential.

Don't you deserve a mattress tailored just for you?
Our small friendly team can help you choose a mattress specifically tailored to your needs. With our 60 Day Love it or Return it Guarantee its completely risk-free.
We are here to help
Alternatively why not give our small friendly team a call?
0161 437 4419
Find out why are customers love us
Based on 2000+ reviews Trustpilot

Ask us a question.

There are over 6000 questions and answers submitted by you on all questions about mattresses and bed problems. Enter a keyword such as Vi Spring, John Lewis beds, bad back or Memory Foam and see if your question has already been answered.

You can filter popular questions by the categories below. If you can’t find an answer, ask a new question below. We aim to respond to all questions within one working day.

Ask a question
Start typing your question below:
John Lewis and Staples Mattresses Reviewed
138254 views 2 answers arrow
Simba mattress and Eve rave reviews?
67891 views 1 answer arrow
Are sprung slats better than rigid slats?
54598 views 2 answers arrow
Best alternative to a memory foam mattress causing back ache?
48083 views 1 answer arrow
No results
Load More Questions
Trustpilot