There’s nothing like waking up with aches and pains to get your day off on the wrong foot, whether a sore back, tight shoulders or a stiff neck, which is why an orthopaedic mattress could be one of the best investments you ever make for yourself.
After all, now more than ever, we’re finally realising just how important quality shut-eye is to our physical health, mental wellbeing and overall performance. Success, it seems, is all wrapped up within sleep.
But what is an orthopaedic mattress? Are orthopaedic mattresses any good? Are orthopaedic mattresses firm? And what are the benefits of an orthopaedic mattress? So many questions surround these specific types of mattresses.
Luckily, we’ve compiled all the essential information you need to inform your decision in one convenient place, so all you need to do is peruse and choose.
What does an orthopaedic mattress mean?
Taking its name from the branch of medicine relating to bones, joints and muscles, an orthopaedic mattress – invented in the 1950s – is specially designed to support the body in all the right places during sleep, preventing discomfort and alleviating pain.
Usually firmer than traditional mattresses (but not always), they distribute the weight of your body more evenly, removing unnecessary pressure on the neck, back and hips, while ensuring correct spinal alignment and healthy posture.
What are the benefits of an orthopaedic mattress?
As well as offering support along the length of your body as you sleep – keeping the spine in a neutral position to eliminate pressure points – orthopaedic mattresses are generally better ventilated than traditional styles because they’re usually constructed from a sturdy sprung core rather than soft memory foam. This makes for a sleep that’s as cooling as it is comfortable. Here’s a cheat-sheet to help you understand all the benefits before committing to choosing an orthopaedic mattress:
Avoiding pressure points from building in the neck, shoulders, back and hips
Alleviating aches and pains if they already exist or when they occur
Keeping your spine aligned to eliminate back pain
Stopping ‘roll-together’ and movement transference
Preventing the spine from curving among those who sleep on their front
How do I choose the correct orthopaedic mattress?
Because we’ve been crafting mattresses since we were founded in 1810 – in fact, we were the first to introduce French-style designs to London – we know a thing or two about orthopaedic mattresses, and our Orthopaedic Pocket is a superior choice.
No less than 1,500 springs are nested in hard-wearing fabric pockets that move independently from one another to respond to the body’s natural contours and movements during the night.
This helps to enhance natural sleep patterns and offer orthopaedic pain relief while avoiding disruption to bedfellows (when you move, your partner doesn’t feel the movement, and vice versa).
What’s more, each mattress is filled with a cotton blend and Superflex foam with a hypo-allergenic layer that help create a healthy sleeping environment, while everything is tailored in a luxurious Belgian damask fabric held together by side stitching and hand-tufting.
Those who want the support of an orthopaedic mattress but the softness of a traditional style needn’t worry, either – simply add a pillow top to enjoy the best of both worlds with absolutely no compromise.
Because we spend around 26 years of our lives in bed, it’s not hard to see why an orthopaedic mattress might be a sound investment, particularly for those who suffer from pain, senior sleepers, or simply those who are generally active or athletic. Do note, that if you struggle to sleep, but the reason for your tossing and turning isn’t physical – stress, anxiety or overthinking, for example – then an orthopaedic mattress might not always be the solution.
Think about why your sleep may be disturbed before exploring orthopaedic options or talk to your doctor. While orthopaedic mattresses for back pain are one of the most popular reasons to buy one, it’s important to remember they’re not just for those who are experiencing pain, as some people simply love a firmer surface to sleep on. For many, it’s the secret to better sleep.
Try and buy our Orthopaedic Pocket in-store to see if it’s right for you.
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Tips & advice
Finding the perfect wedding gift is about choosing something that's both beautiful and meaningful. Whether they're furnishing their first home together or adding the finishing touches to a well-loved space, our edit brings together design-led tableware, statement lighting and thoughtfully crafted home accessories they'll enjoy for years to come.
A table set to impress
For couples who love to host, Bitossi brings personality to every place setting. Handcrafted in Italy, the brand's playful tableware combines bold colour, expressive patterns and artisanal craftsmanship, transforming everyday dining into something worth celebrating.
From statement dinner plates to beautifully illustrated side plates, each piece is designed to be mixed and matched, making it an ideal wedding gift for couples building a collection that's as individual as they are. Whether used for everyday meals or special occasions, Bitossi's joyful designs are destined to become talking points around the table.
Discover the Bitossi collection here.
An everyday essential
A beautifully crafted cutlery set is one of those wedding gifts that will be used every day, making it both thoughtful and practical. Designed in the heart of the Cotswolds, Charingworth's Planish Satin 24 Piece Cutlery Set combines timeless style with exceptional craftsmanship.
Crafted from premium stainless steel, each piece features a distinctive dimpled handle inspired by traditional metalworking techniques, offering a comfortable, well-balanced feel in the hand.
Complete with a 25-year guarantee, it's a gift that's made to accompany everything from everyday dinners to special celebrations, becoming part of countless shared meals for years to come.
Find the perfect wedding gift with Charingworth.
A playful finishing touch
For couples who appreciate design with a sense of humour, Alessi transforms everyday objects into conversation pieces. Renowned for collaborating with some of the world's most celebrated designers, the Italian brand combines exceptional craftsmanship with playful creativity.
The iconic Anna G Corkscrew, designed by Alessandro Mendini, has become a modern design classic, while the Big Love Ice Cream Spoons bring a touch of joy to everything from after-dinner desserts to summer entertaining. Thoughtful, distinctive and made to be enjoyed, these design-led gifts are perfect for couples who believe the little details make a home feel truly special.
Find thoughtful gifts from Alessi here.
A design icon for every desk
Whether they're creating a home office or styling a quiet reading corner, the 90 Mini Mini Desk Lamp by Anglepoise is a thoughtful wedding gift that combines timeless design with everyday practicality.
Inspired by the brand's iconic Original 1227™ lamp, this compact version retains the signature spring-balanced mechanism and impeccable craftsmanship in a smaller, more versatile form.
Ideal for desks, bedside tables or shelves, it provides focused light without taking up valuable space, making it perfect for modern living. Beautifully engineered and built to last, it's a design classic they'll enjoy every day.
Gift an Anglepoise design icon here.
The Lo Studio scented candle
We all like a luxurious candle, but somehow, it’s one of those things you rarely buy for yourself. Which is why it’s the perfect opportunity to present one to friends for their wedding.
Each Lo Studio candle reflects a harmonious blend of artistry and functionality, ensuring that your space exudes sophistication. Each candle is created with a conscience, free from animal testing, animal-derived ingredients, herbicides, pesticides, and GMOs.
Discover Lo Studio here.
The objet-d’art pitcher
Pitcher, vase or objet d’art? All three, we think. Designed by Constantin Wortmann for Georg Jensen, the versatile Cobra Pitcher is a water jug first and foremost, but can easily be used as a vase or simply as a stunning piece of design as part of an Instagrammable shelving display.
It’s handcrafted in Denmark from polished stainless steel and features a distinctive curved aesthetic. A thing of beauty.
Find our carefully curated collection of wedding and engagement gifts here.
The world is becoming more sustainable and environmentally conscious day by day. We’re switching to LED bulbs, cutting meat from our meals and carefully considering every piece of clothing we buy. So, why aren’t we applying the same thought process to buying ethical and sustainable furniture? This switch to more eco-friendly living isn’t a fleeting fad.
Our 2021 survey showed that people are becoming more and more aware that what they do or don’t buy really matters. The material a piece of furniture is made from, the packaging it arrives in and the carbon it takes to deliver it to your home should all be important considerations.
Read on to discover how you can make more ethical and sustainable choices when buying furniture.
What is sustainable furniture?
Ethical and sustainable furniture is made in an eco-friendly way and leaves little impact on the planet. Different factors come into this, including where it’s made, how it’s made, who made it and how it’s transported.
When choosing a piece of furniture, ask yourself some key questions. How far has it travelled? What’s it made of and does it come from a sustainable source? Does the factory it’s made in treat its workers well? Is this just a trend? What chemicals are used to make the furniture? Will I be happy using this for the rest of my life?
Considering points like these will help you to decide if the piece of furniture fits your criteria of ethical and sustainable furniture. But remember, ethics and sustainability don’t always come hand in hand when it comes to furniture.
After all, a chair could be handcrafted by artisans using local materials, but if it’s shipped from the opposite side of the world it might not fit your criteria. For many people, if it’s a quality piece of furniture that’ll last a lifetime then it’s an easy call.
What are the best ethical and sustainable materials?
It can be hard to choose between materials whilst shopping sustainably. After all, so many materials claim to be eco-friendly and it can be hard to see through the greenwashing. To us, the key thing is that it leaves a minimal impact on the planet, and that it’s made well to last a lifetime. Here are some of the best ethical and sustainable materials around.
Recycled materials
Most of us recycle as much as possible in our day-to-day lives. Now, furniture brands are using our waste to create sustainable furniture from recycled materials. Materials like metal and wood are being reused to create brand new pieces of furniture. Even plastic bottles are being transformed into upholstery, sustainable garden furniture and rugs.
Rather than chopping down trees or forging metals, furniture made from recycled materials turns yesterday’s waste into today’s raw material. Without these additional manufacturing steps, the carbon footprint of your new piece of furniture is reduced massively.
Wood
Wood can be one of the most sustainable materials to use when crafting furniture. After all, trees help to absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, making them an essential part of our ecosystem. Plus, it’s a renewable resource, meaning we can continue growing more trees and replenishing our forests, within reason.
However, just because a piece of furniture is made using wood, that doesn’t mean it’s ethical or sustainable. If the forest the wood comes from isn’t well managed or contributes to deforestation then it might be best to pass. Look out for the PEFC and FSC logos as a sign the wood comes from a sustainable source.
To find out more information on choosing sustainable wood furniture check out this article.
Organic cotton
When shopping for upholstered furniture like a sofa, headboard or armchair, it’s also important to consider the fabric. Plenty of upholstery materials are made using synthetic fibres so that they can keep up with daily use.
For many people that’s a fine choice, but for the most sustainable upholstery we suggest organic cotton. Cotton is a natural material that comes from plants, making it a renewable fibre. However, not all cotton is grown organically and unfortunately, non-organic cotton is often grown with help from pesticides. These pesticides can seep into the soil and wreak havoc on local ecosystems and water sources.
That’s why we suggest organic cotton as the most sustainable and ethical upholstery choice. For the same reasons, organic linen also makes a great upholstery option and even uses less water.
The source of the cotton is also important, as some countries are known to use forced labour to harvest it. The best thing you can do is ask the manufacturer what their policies are and where their cotton comes from. This should help you make an informed choice.
Is quality furniture more sustainable?
Yes, absolutely. Investing in a piece of furniture that you’ll love for a lifetime is far more sustainable than buying fast furniture that breaks in five years, only to be replaced. If a piece of furniture is handcrafted using the best materials, it’s bound to be a household favourite for years to come.
Premium materials and long-lasting finishes are key to your furniture lasting a long time. Plus, maintaining your furniture with the right wax, detergent or varnish will help your furniture to last even longer.
Does it matter where my furniture comes from?
Yes, it’s incredibly important to check where your furniture has travelled. Even the most premium furniture often travels around the world. So, do your research to estimate the carbon footprint of your new furniture. For the lowest possible carbon footprint, look for local suppliers.
If they craft their furniture using locally sourced materials, then even better. The most sustainable furniture is often the one closest to home, providing it’s well made using ethical materials and that you’re sure you’ll love it for years to come.
Like what you see? Explore our collection of furniture made using recycled materials.
The dining table is central to every home. It’s the place you host family dinners, where you entertain friends and sit to enjoy an afternoon cuppa. Whether it’s a special occasion or a quiet evening in, your dining table caters to a whole assortment of occasions.
So, it’s important to choose your dining table colour carefully to make sure it’s central to your design scheme as well as your home. We’ve created this handy article to show how to choose a dining table colour that suits your home. Read on to discover more.
Decide on a style
Sure, the dining table is central to your home, but it isn’t always the place to start designing. On your first step to choosing a dining table colour, decide on a style that your table should match, not the other way around.
For example, if you decide on a more retro style for your dining room, perhaps a white Eero Saarinen dining table will be the perfect match. Or maybe your chosen style is a little more rustic. In that case, a light wood dining table may suit your room best.
If you’d like to create an opulent and luxurious vibe, perhaps consider black marble. Deciding on a style first will help you to create a well-thought out and cohesive dining space.
Consider materials
When asking yourself how to choose a dining table colour, materials should always be an early consideration. Your dining table’s material can have a huge influence on your choice, in a similar way to your room’s style. That’s because materials can make a huge difference to your decision making. Since narrowing down materials tends to cut out some colour options, it can also be a great way to move one step closer to a decision.
For example, choosing a wooden dining table means your colour selection is often limited to natural browns, white and black. A marble dining table offers a little more choice in terms of colour. The luxurious material comes in reds, greens, whites and blacks, so it’s perfect for injecting colour into your space.
In contrast, man-made materials like linoleum mean you can choose any colour under the sun for your dining table.
How will you use the room?
When you’re thinking about how to choose a dining table colour, it’s important to consider how you’ll use the room. Will you mainly be enjoying low key family dinners in it or hosting opulent dinner parties? Answering this question will help you choose a colour.
Wood is a great choice if you’re using the room for plenty of family meals and evenings in. That’s because it’s a warm and welcoming material. Colourful linoleum is another great choice as it brings character to the room and it’s easy to clean marks left behind from messy family dinners.
Or perhaps the room will be a little more formal? Opulent materials like marble, brass and walnut make for a sophisticated dining space. Big celebrations and special occasions will feel even more monumental sat round a white marble table.
How large is the room?
The colour of your dining table can really impact your room as a whole. The right choice and a small dining room can suddenly feel sprawling. The wrong choice and you may find it feeling dark and gloomy. If your room is on the smaller side, we suggest choosing a brighter dining table.
Think shades of grey and white, or lighter woods like ash. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t add a splash of colour to a more compact dining room. Bring in colour with accessories like placemats, curtains and dining chairs.
For larger dining rooms you have a little more freedom. Rich, dark tones like black, blue and purple take advantage of the space and are a little bolder. Light colours will also work, but make sure to add a rug underneath to pull the design together.
Like what you see? Discover our collection of modern dining tables.
Lots of decision making goes into finding the perfect sofa. Once you’ve picked your silhouette, the next big decision is upholstery. Often the first choice is between leather or fabric upholstery and there’s lots to consider.
That’s everything from your space and style to comfort and durability. Really, there is no right or wrong choice between leather or fabric upholstery. It’s a decision that’s completely personal and depends lots on your style and how you plan to use the sofa.
In this article we’ll help you make the crucial choice between leather or fabric sofa upholstery. Read on to learn more…
Which is more comfortable, leather or fabric?
Plenty of things help to make a sofa comfortable, like springs, cushioning and lots of support. However, upholstery also plays a huge role in making sure your sofa is comfy to sit on. After all, you’ll be touching it every time you sit, lie or lounge on it. Too itchy, sticky or delicate and you won’t enjoy your downtime quite so much.
When it comes to comfort, the choice between leather and fabric is often down to personal preference, but a beautifully crafted leather sofa can be every bit as inviting. The Barrington II Sofa demonstrates why.
Inspired by the relaxed proportions of a classic French club chair, it combines soft 'pull-up' leather with fully sprung support and generous foam and feather cushions for a seat that feels comfortable from the very first sit.
Over time, the leather develops a rich patina unique to your home, making Barrington a sofa that only becomes more characterful with age.
Experience the comfort of the Barrington Sofa here.
If your idea of comfort is sinking into soft, enveloping cushions, a fabric sofa is hard to beat. The Astrid Sofa collection has been designed with relaxation in mind, pairing a signature wrap-around back cushion with generously filled duck feather and down cushions to create an irresistibly cloud-like seat.
Upholstered in the UK in a choice of exclusive fabrics, its modular design can be tailored to suit your space. Complete the look with tactile throws and decorative cushions to add warmth, texture and personality, creating a living room that's as inviting as it is beautifully considered.
Sink into comfort with the Astrid Sofa.
So, take your time to try sitting on sofas upholstered in both materials before deciding.
Our winner: Fabric upholstery
Is leather or fabric more stylish?
Leather and fabric upholstery can both make a strong style statement in your home. The best thing to do is look at your existing furniture and decide whether fabric or leather is the right fit.
Fabric upholstery offers lots of choice when it comes to finding the right style. With the freedom to choose between different colours, textures, patterns and fabrics, you can really customise your sofa to suit your space.
When it comes to style, there's no single winner. Leather offers timeless appeal, while fabric opens up a world of colour, texture and personal expression. Upholstered here in Smart Luxe Velvet Peridot, the Harri Sofa collection shows how fabric can transform a living room, bringing warmth, depth and a luxurious finish to contemporary interiors.
Its clean-lined silhouette, subtle double-stitch detailing and slim black feet keep the design feeling refined, while the rich velvet upholstery adds softness and character. Complete the look with contrasting cushions and a textured rug to create a space that's both sophisticated and inviting.
Discover Harri in your favourite fabric.
You might lack the same choice as fabric upholstery but choose the right quality leather and it’ll look elegant in your home for years to come.
For a more expressive take on leather upholstery, the Palermo Sofa in stonewash vintage green leather makes a confident statement. Its rich green hue and subtly distressed finish bring depth and character to a room, while clean lines and generous proportions lend the design a contemporary edge. Paired with bold colours or contrasting textures, Palermo demonstrates how a leather sofa can feel both timeless and distinctly modern.
Beyond its distinctive leather upholstery, the Palermo Sofa features generously cushioned seats and supportive back cushions, offering a comfortable place to unwind. Its broad, structured arms and low-profile silhouette create a balanced, contemporary look, while subtle detailing and discreet feet complete the design.
Experience timeless style with Palermo.
Our winner: Leather upholstery
Which sofa will stand the test of time?
A sofa's longevity depends on more than its upholstery. Quality craftsmanship, a well-constructed frame and durable materials all play an important role in how a sofa looks and feels over time. Leather is particularly appealing for its ability to develop character with age, making it a considered choice for those looking to invest in a piece they'll enjoy for years to come.
The Matera Sofa is a fine example of design made to last. Combining contemporary Italian styling with traditional craftsmanship, its solid beech and birch plywood frame provides a sturdy foundation, while high-density foam, memory foam and feather-filled seat cushions offer lasting support and comfort.
Upholstered in daino leather treacle, its rich, warm brown finish brings character to the design, with the leather developing a natural patina over time. Slim metal legs and clean lines complete a sofa that balances enduring quality with understated elegance.
Explore the Matera collection here.
A well-made fabric sofa can stand the test of time just as effectively as leather, provided quality materials and craftsmanship are at the heart of its design. The Nimbus II Sofa, exclusive to Heal's and handcrafted in the UK, demonstrates how thoughtful construction can contribute to lasting comfort and durability.
Built around a solid beech and birch hardwood frame, Nimbus II combines traditional upholstery techniques with a relaxed, contemporary silhouette. Feather-wrapped foam seat cushions provide a balance of softness and support, while tailored fabric upholstery gives the sofa a refined finish. Available in a selection of Heal's fabrics, it's a considered choice for those seeking a fabric sofa designed to be enjoyed for years to come.
Discover enduring comfort with Nimbus II.
Our winner: That depends on your home…
Is leather easier to care for than fabric upholstery?
Leather sofas are often considered easier to maintain than fabric upholstery, thanks to their smooth surfaces, which make everyday dust and crumbs easier to remove. Unlike woven fabrics, leather doesn't tend to trap dirt within its fibres, although regular care is still important to preserve its appearance. The level of maintenance will depend on the leather's finish, with some types requiring more attention than others.
The Hepburn Sofa offers a considered balance of contemporary design and everyday practicality. Upholstered in supple leather, its generous proportions, softly rounded silhouette and inviting cushions create a relaxed yet refined look.
Available in a selection of leather finishes, including semi-aniline options, Hepburn brings warmth and character to a living space. With appropriate cleaning and conditioning in line with the manufacturer's guidance, its leather upholstery can be enjoyed for years to come.
Discover the Hepburn range here.
A well-made fabric sofa can be just as enduring as leather, particularly when designed with everyday practicality in mind. The Tailor Loose Sofa Collection combines timeless design with the added benefit of removable covers, making it easier to care for your sofa and maintain its appearance over time.
With its relaxed silhouette, generous proportions and inviting cushions, Tailor Loose is designed for lasting comfort. Upholstered in capelo linen-cotton rosedale, the fabric's natural texture and soft, understated finish complement its contemporary design.
The removable covers offer a practical advantage for busy households, allowing for easier cleaning in accordance with the fabric's care instructions. It's a thoughtful choice for those seeking a fabric sofa that balances style, comfort and longevity.
Discover effortless living with Tailor Loose.
Our winner: Leather upholstery
Which one’s your winner? Explore our leather sofa and fabric sofa collections today.
Velvet is one of the world’s most luxurious fabrics with its smooth texture and subtle sheen. It’s been a fixture on catwalks and in our homes ever since it first reached Britain. The original velvets were crafted using silk, making them incredibly expensive and only available to nobles for centuries.
Even today, the techniques needed to craft silk velvet make it an incredibly costly addition to your soft furnishings. That’s why upholsterers often turn to cotton and polyester velvet as an alternative. Each type of silk offers different qualities, making them suitable for different types of upholstery.
Read on to find out more about the best velvet fabric for upholstery…
A brief history of velvet
Velvet is a fabric with plenty of heritage. The ancient Egyptians made a similar style fabric as long ago as 2000 BC. To create it, they used process that isn’t too different to the ones we use today to make velvet.
However, ancient Egypt isn’t alone in its claim to fame in the history of velvet. In fact, Iraq and China are also two of the first producers of velvet in the world.
Once trade was established and velvet reached the Mediterranean shores, it became an instant hit in Europe, particularly in Italy. Italy became a dominant producer in velvet during the Renaissance and after the industrial revolution it became cheaper and more widely available. That’s how velvet became a staple in our soft furnishings and on the catwalk.
Different types of velvet upholstery
Velvet upholstery has been a favourite in interior design for years. Even today, it’s still the go-to for designers looking to add a little lustre and finesse to homes. With a soft, plush texture, it’s great at creating a cosy ambience in living rooms, bedrooms and dining areas.
The best velvet fabric for your upholstery will change depending on how much it’ll be used. In busy homes, a more durable velvet is normally needed, whereas furniture that’s used less needn’t be quite so hard wearing.
Read on to discover the best velvet fabric for upholstery in different homes.
Silk velvet
Best for: sophisticated living rooms
Silk velvet is beyond a doubt the most luxurious option when it comes to velvet upholstery. It has a truly refined texture and a beautiful sheen that’s hard to replicate. It’s made by weaving two layers of silk on top of one another before being joined by a second silk thread. When the layers separate it creates the smooth velvety texture we love.
Compared to other velvets, silk velvet tends to have a lower Martindale rub count, the scale that measures the durability of fabrics. That means it isn’t always the right choice for higher use rooms. So, we recommend considering silk velvet upholstery if your furniture’s in a space that isn’t subjected to kids and pets clambering all over it.
Polyester velvet
Best for: busy family homes
With a similar luxurious finish to silk velvet, polyester velvet is a more cost effective and durable option for upholstery. It’s made using similar techniques to silk velvet but using high-quality polyester instead. This hard-wearing fabric resists fading and is often water and stain resistant.
Polyester velvet also tends to have a particularly high Martindale rub count. For example, our own Smart Luxe velvet has a rub count of 100,000. That makes it strong enough for commercial use where it's perfect for the most heavy-duty settings.
So, whilst polyester velvet is made using synthetic fibres, it’s super durable and bound to last well. We reckon it’s perfect for busy family homes or households where pets climb on the sofa.
Cotton velvet
Best for: well-used sofas
Cotton velvet also offers a much more durable alternative to silk velvet. It’s got the same subtle glint when it catches the light, and a matte finish that stays when brushed back and forth. Over the years cotton velvet upholstery develops a subtle patina that makes it unique to your home.
This patina doesn’t change the fabric’s durability, as cotton velvet is robust with a rub count of over 60,000. That makes it perfect for well-used living rooms or dining spaces.
Shop velvet sofas and discover how to care for your velvet upholstery.
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