One-minute Emma Original video review
Short on time?
Check out our quick (just over) one-minute video review of the Emma Original. 👇
How we test products
Our mission is to take the guesswork out of finding the perfect sleep products.
We've dedicated hundreds of hours to testing mattresses and sleep accessories, and rely on a team of testers of differing weights, temperature preferences, and sleeping positions to evaluate each product.
Tested products are granted the Sleep Hero tested stamp of approval, a mark of our review's reliability.
If we haven't personally tested a product, please be assured that we invest significant time and energy into scouring the UK market and researching the best recommendations, and we work with a team of sleep experts who review our articles, ensuring that the insights we provide are not only relatable but also reliable.
Emma mattress composition
The Emma Sleep Original is a high-quality memory foam mattress.
It features three foam layers that work together to offer optimal comfort, stability, and spinal support.
The three different foam layers are:
- A top layer of point-elastic Airgocell foam (3 cm / 1.1 inches)
- A core of high-density, pressure-relieving memory foam (3 cm / 1.1 inches)
- A base layer High Resiliency Extra (HRX) polyfoam with contour zones (19 cm / 7.4 inches)
These are all high-density foams, indicative of high quality, durability, and a good mattress lifespan.
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Let's take a closer look at each of these foam layers.
The Emma mattress foam layers
Each of the foam layers in the Emma Original serves a specific purpose.
1. Point-elastic Airgocell foam
The top comfort layer of the mattress is made from patented Airgocell foam.
The unique Point Elastic Airgocell technology enhances overall breathability and regulates temperature within the mattress by allowing excess heat to escape.
This counteracts the heat-retention properties of memory foam, designed to keep you cooler than standard foam mattresses. ❄️
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2. Halo memory foam
The core of the mattress consists of high-density memory foam.
The Halo memory foam adapts optimally to your body shape.
This offers targeted spinal alignment, enhanced pressure relief, and body-hugging comfort. 🤗
The memory foam layer in the Emma Sleep Original is relatively thin.
This isn't a bad thing: It means you can enjoy the benefits of the foam without the drawbacks, such as excessive heat retention and difficulty moving.
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3. Emma HRX Supreme foam
The base of the Original mattress consists of Emma HRX (High Resiliency Extra) Supreme foam.
This base foam layer serves multiple purposes:
- It guarantees durability by preventing sag.
- Five adaptive contour zones distribute body weight more evenly.
- Limits motion transfer to keep you comfortable.
Overall, the HRX cold foam gives you enhanced support and stability. 🏋️♂️
It also ensures the durability of the mattress.
However, you should rotate your mattress regularly to further improve the mattress's durability.
This will help to evenly distribute weight and avoid the development of body impressions.
We advise rotating your mattress once every couple of months.
How comfortable is the Emma Original mattress?
Our test sleepers tried the Original for quite a while for our UK Emma mattress review.
Their best description of what sleeping on the mattress feels like was "cosy and supportive".
This feeling can largely be explained by the combination of the two upper comfort layers.
Both Airgocell and memory foam are highly adaptable and conform to the shape of your body. 🤗
They are also very point-elastic, meaning they can relieve pressure well and help your muscles relax.
With this combination, you should feel as if you're sinking into a cloud, ready to drift off for the best night's sleep of your life.
Here's what our sleep expert said:
Caroline Rolland
Physiotherapist
What a pleasant discovery - the adaptability of this mattress is excellent! Definitely a first in my experience. This mattress 'hugs' the body well, regardless of your sleeping position. It feels a bit like you're sleeping in a cocoon. And it really allows your muscles to relax!
Is the Emma mattress good for side sleepers?
Since the Emma memory foam mattress is a medium-feel mattress, it's exceptionally comfortable when sleeping on your side.
This is because your shoulders and hips - the heavier parts of your body - can sink into the mattress more deeply.
Yet, it still offers enough support for the lighter parts of your body, like your feet and arms. 🦶
This combination allows your spine to remain in optimal alignment.
Look at the image below as an illustration:
You can see how the soft foam layers contour around the body shape, gently cushioning the hip and shoulder.
Meanwhile, the Emma mattress provides enough stability to keep the spine lifted and aligned with the neck.
Our female and male tester experienced exceptional comfort in the side sleeping position.
Both testers agreed the Emma Original mattress reduced aches and pains and provided a supportive yet snuggly sleep.
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Is the Emma mattress good for bad backs?
The Emma is a brilliant choice if you're looking for an orthopaedic mattress to help reduce back pain.
If you have a bad back or some orthopaedic concerns, you want to be searching for optimal spinal alignment. 🦴
Take a look at how the Emma mattress supports the spine when sleeping on your back:
In the back position, the Emma mattress moulds around the heavier parts of the body while aligning the spine in a neutral position.
The mattress also distributes pressure well, allowing your muscles to relax fully.
This can further relieve any tension you may be experiencing.
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Not the best support for stomach sleepers or larger builds
While the Emma Sleep memory foam mattress is quite supportive, it may be too soft for heavier-weight sleepers (averaging 90 kg / 198 lbs or more) who sleep purely on their back or stomach.
Larger builds and stomach sleepers require more hip support.
A mattress that is too soft misaligns the spine and can lead to lower back pain.
We tested the Emma Original mattress in the stomach sleeping position:
You can see how the combination of the soft Emma mattress and firm Emma Premium pillow creates an uncomfortable bend in the spine.
If you're of a larger build or prefer sleeping on your stomach, you may find a firmer, more supportive mattress more comfortable.
Stomach sleeping is regarded as the unhealthiest sleeping position because you have to move your head to one side, which puts pressure on the neck and spine.
A high pillow and soft mattress make this even worse by adding to the strain and creating a bend in the neck and back.
Luckily, the Emma Premium pillow is adjustable, so you can remove some layers for a lower and softer feel.
The Origin mattress and DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid may also be suitable mattress options for stomach sleepers. 👌
They combine firm foam layers with pocket springs to provide a firmer, more supported feel.
Find out more below:
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![DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid Mattress]()
![DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid Mattress]()
DreamCloud![DreamCloud]()
Luxury HybridPrice from £ 408.07 £ (949 )The DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid mattress is a 5-layered premium mattress that combines memory foam with pocket springs.The DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid mattress is a 5-layered premium mattress that combines memory foam with pocket springs.Price from £ 408.07 (£ 949 )![DreamCloud]()
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![Origin Hybrid Mattress]()
![Origin Hybrid Mattress]()
Origin![Origin]()
Hybrid MattressPrice from £ 299 £ (499 )The Origin mattress combines a HexaGrid orthopaedic layer, graphite-infused cooling foam, and antigravity pocket springs for a firm and breathable sleep.The Origin mattress combines a HexaGrid orthopaedic layer, graphite-infused cooling foam, and antigravity pocket springs for a firm and breathable sleep.Price from £ 299 (£ 499 )![Origin]()
Emma mattress firmness
The Emma Original is rated as a medium-firm mattress.
And after sleeping on this mattress for several weeks, we'd have to agree. 🧸
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We'd rate it at 6 out of 10 on the Sleep Hero firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest.
This puts it on par with the Simba Hybrid, one of our favourite hybrid options.
It offers that sleeping-on-a-cloud feeling but still provides sufficient support and stability, allowing you to enjoy your best night's sleep.
Measuring sinkage depths
To test the Emma mattress firmness, we measured how deeply our test sleepers sank into the foams in various positions. 🧮
Sinkage is a good indicator of how supportive the mattress would be for different sleepers.
To test, we relied on two different sleepers and measured their respective sinkage depths.
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The Emma mattress had moderate sinkage in the middle, with slightly more sinkage than other memory foam mattresses like the Nectar mattress.
We also analysed the sinking depths in different sleeping positions.
We tested this by laying at the very end of the mattress and seeing how much the mattress adapted to our shape.
We measured the hips and shoulders to get an indication of how well the Emma Original moulded to these heavier regions.
Our experiment gave the following results:
| Female tester (9 st / 57 kg) | Male tester (14 st / 88 kg) | |
| Sleeping on the back |
Shoulder: 3 cm (1.18") Pelvis: 3 cm (1.18") |
Shoulder: 1 cm (0.39") Pelvis: 5 cm (1.96") |
| Sleeping on the side |
Shoulder: 5 cm (1.96") Pelvis: 6 cm (2.36") |
Shoulder: 6 cm (2.36") Pelvis: 5 cm (1.96") |
| Sleeping on the stomach |
Shoulder: 0.5 cm (0.19") Pelvis: 1 cm (0.39") |
Shoulder: 2 cm (0.78") Pelvis: 3.5 (1.37") |
The results were impressive. 🤯
As you can see, the Emma Original is highly adaptable to each sleeping position, offering more sinkage when sleeping on the side and providing more stability when sleeping on the back and front.
The Emma mattress also adjusted well to different weights, distributing the weight evenly across the mattress's surface.
However, we'd say it's a little too soft for heavier stomach sleepers.
Edge support test
If you sit on the end of your bed, it's important to choose a mattress that has good edge support.
But what exactly is edge support?
As the name suggests, this is the support you can experience at the very edge of the mattress.
In a mattress with bad edge support, you'll feel as if you're sliding off the mattress when sitting on the edge or sleeping very close to the edge of the mattress.
This is to be expected with softer mattresses, and not everyone minds bad edge support. ⛰️
Take a look at the edge support of the Emma mattress:
Overall, we found it had average edge support.
But it did fare a little better than other all-foam mattresses like the Nectar mattress.
However, firmer bed-in-a-box options that combine pocket springs with foam layers generally do better in our edge support test.
Choose a mattress with good edge support if you:
- Like using the entire width of the mattress.
- Enjoy your mattress for other activities, like painting your nails or working on your laptop.
- Like sitting on the edge of your bed to read, browse your phone, or put on your shoes.
- Share your bed with a partner.
If you like sitting on the edge of your bed, it's best to look for a mattress with better edge support.
The DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid mattress has excellent edge support.
Does the Emma mattress sleep hot?
You may have heard that memory foam sleeps hot. 🥵
This is true.
Memory foam mattresses are generally warmer and retain more heat than other mattresses.
But the Emma Original mattress is designed with temperature-regulating properties.
The Airgocell layer and the fine-meshed top cover increase breathability and airflow and reduce heat storage.
Heat can effectively escape the mattress, reducing overall temperature and keeping you cooler and more comfortable. ❄️
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Testing heat retention in the Emma Original
We used a thermal camera to analyse how much heat was retained in the Emma mattress upon waking up. 📷
Since we usually wake up warmer than when we go to sleep, this provides a good indication of the warmest we'd be on the Emma Original mattress.
Take a look at the results:
As you can see, the Emma Original retained much of the heat built up inside the mattress, providing an average temperature of 37.4-5°C
This is 11.7°C warmer than our tester's results on the Emma Premium mattress.
The Emma Premium is a hybrid mattress with a pocket spring layer, which provides better airflow. 🌬️
However, there are other variables to consider:
- The room temperature was 25°C on the thermostat
- Our testers were using the Emma Cloud duvet
- Our tester's sheets were 90% polyester, 10% cotton
- Our tester's slept with a fan in the room during the night
The results from our temperature test correlate with how warm we felt sleeping on the Emma mattress.
On particularly warm nights, we woke up overheating, and you could feel the heat retained by hovering your hand above its surface.
Therefore, if you feel warm easily during sleep, you should consider a cool mattress with better airflow and temperature regulation.
Our favourite cool mattresses:
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![Simba Hybrid Luxe]()
![Simba Hybrid Luxe]()
Simba![Simba]()
Hybrid LuxePrice from £ 947.40 £ (1,579 )The Simba Hybrid Luxe is Simba's most advanced mattress with three tiers of titanium Aerocoil® springs and a breathable bamboo wool top surface.The Simba Hybrid Luxe is Simba's most advanced mattress with three tiers of titanium Aerocoil® springs and a breathable bamboo wool top surface.Price from £ 947.40 (£ 1,579 )![Simba]()
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![Dreams TheraPur ActiGel Glacier 3600 Mattress]()
![Dreams TheraPur ActiGel Glacier 3600 Mattress]()
Dreams![Dreams]()
TheraPur ActiGel Glacier 3600 MattressPrice from £ 1,399The Dreams TheraPur Polar ActiGel 3600 is a cooling mattress designed for optimal airflow and breathability.The Dreams TheraPur Polar ActiGel 3600 is a cooling mattress designed for optimal airflow and breathability.Price from £ 1,399![Dreams]()
Is the Emma mattress good for couples?
If you're sharing your bed with a partner, you'll have one burning question:
Can I comfortably share this mattress with another person?
There are two factors we consider to determine this:
- Edge support
- Motion transfer
We've already seen that the Emma Original UK mattress has average edge support.
While the Emma mattress double is the minimum size for couples, we recommend couples invest in a larger mattress, such as the Emma mattress king size or the super king-sized mattress.
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Larger mattress sizes ensure that both partners have enough space to sleep comfortably.
But what about motion transfer?
Well, first, what is motion transfer?
Motion transfer refers to how much movement is carried through the mattress.
That is: Will you feel your partner toss and turn or get into bed when you're already fast asleep?
A mattress with high motion transfer isn't ideal as you'll feel movements quite well.
The Emma Original has exceptionally low motion transfer (or, good motion isolation).
The foam layers absorb and dampen movements, ensuring that motion is not carried across the mattress.
When we did our Emma mattress review UK, we shared the bed with a partner - and did not feel any movements.
Despite the difference in weight between the two people lying on the mattress, we did not experience the feeling of "rolling" towards the heavier partner. That said, the mattress will be less suitable for overweight people because I am not certain that the third foam restores all of its elasticity after changing your sleeping position.
Caroline Rolland
Physiotherapist
We also didn't feel our partner getting in and out of bed.
This means you can enjoy a restful night's sleep and won't be disturbed by your partner tossing and turning. 🕺
Emma mattress cover
The Emma memory foam mattress includes a simple yet elegantly designed cover.
However, we tested the Emma Original Plus, which includes the more advanced Diamond Hybrid cover.
The table below breaks down the differences between the covers:
| Standard Emma cover | Emma Diamond Hybrid cover | |
| Design: | Thinner, textured design with grey mesh border. | Honeycomb design with green accents and grey mesh border. |
| Materials: | 99% polyester and 1% elastane. | 99% polyester and 1% elastane. |
The main difference in the Diamond Hybrid cover is the luxury honeycomb design.
Emma claims the Diamond Hybrid cover has better thermoregulation, with the honeycomb design providing better airflow.
But both covers have the same composition.
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However, it's thick and luxurious, incredibly soft, and pleasant to lie on.
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Side carrying handles
While the Emma is a no-flip mattress, you do have to rotate it head-to-toe every couple of months.
This ensures the sides wear evenly.
The cover has four carrying handles, which make moving the mattress or turning it around much more manageable.
Unfortunately, the handles are relatively weak and can tear quickly.
This is especially true if you're handling the mattress more roughly or dealing with one of the larger mattress sizes.
Can you wash the Emma mattress cover?
Conveniently, you can wash the Emma cover.
It has a zipper on the side, allowing you to easily remove it.
We encountered no issues in detaching and reattaching the cover - in fact, we discovered that it could be accomplished by just one person.
Simply zip it off and machine-wash at 60℃. 🛀
Machine-washable covers are great for people with hygiene concerns.
It also makes the Original Emma an excellent hypoallergenic choice suitable for people prone to allergies.
That said, we always recommend investing in a mattress protector.
Mattress protectors safeguard your mattress against stains, spills, dirt, and bacteria. 💦
They also elongate the lifespan of your mattress.
Grab the Emma mattress protector:
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![Emma mattress protector]()
![Emma mattress protector]()
Emma![Emma]()
Mattress ProtectorPrice from £ 59 £ (79 )The Emma Mattress Protector is a breathable, waterproof & antibacterial layer that safeguards your mattress."Get 5% off with our exclusive 'SLEEPHEROUK5' discount code."The Emma Mattress Protector is a breathable, waterproof & antibacterial layer that safeguards your mattress."Get 5% off with our exclusive 'SLEEPHEROUK5' discount code."Price from £ 59 (£ 79 )![Emma]()
Emma Original mattress sizes
Emma Sleep mattresses are available in all standard UK sizes. 🇬🇧
These include:
- Emma mattress single: 90 x 190 cm (3’ x 6’3”)
- Emma small double mattress: 120 x 190 cm (4' x 6'3")
- Emma double mattress: 135 x 190 cm (4’6” x 6’3”)
- Emma king mattress: 150 x 200 cm (5’ x 6’6”)
- Emma mattress super king: 180 x 200 cm (6’ x 6’6”)
Children, young adults, and people sleeping alone can choose any of the mattress sizes.
That said, the single Emma mattress should be reserved for young children.
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We'd recommend couples opt for the Emma double bed as a minimum, but they should preferably go for the Emma king mattress, Emma super king mattress, or larger.
More recently, Emma has also introduced European mattress sizes. 🇪🇺
These include:
- EU single: 90 x 200 cm (3' x 6'7")
- EU double: 140 x 200 cm (4'7" x 6'7")
- EU queen: 160 x 200 cm (5'3" x 6'7")
Our mattress size guide can also help you choose the perfect mattress.
How thick is the Emma mattress?
The Emma mattress depth lies at 25 cm (9.8").
This is standard for most bed-in-a-box mattresses.
We love standard-sized mattresses, as this means most bedding will fit comfortably. 😅
Unfortunately, our mattress was a couple of centimetres shy of 25 cm (9.8"), measuring 22.5 cm (8.8").
However, we opened it later than the recommended period, which could have played a role in its lack of full expansion.
To maximise your Emma mattress's performance, it's best to unbox it within 4 weeks of receiving your shipment.
Should your Emma mattress fail to reach the specified height, it is advisable to contact the Emma support team, as this issue is considered under your warranty.
Emma mattress prices
The Emma Original offers incredible value for money.
(Note: prices listed below are standard prices, excluding any current coupons and discounts)
Emma mattress discount codes
Even though the Emma is a great value-for-money mattress, you'll be pleased to hear that there are regular Emma mattress sales.
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Promotions may come up at any time, but particularly exciting sales take place for Emma Sleep's birthday, bank holidays, Valentine's Day, Halloween, Black Friday, Christmas, Boxing Day, and the New Year's period.
We collect all of the best discounts for you on our discounts page.
We also list any current Emma Original discounts within this article.
In addition, we have a Sleep Hero exclusive discount code that will give you an extra 5% off your purchase.
Simply use code "SLEEPHEROUK5" on checkout to receive your extra savings.
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If you want to ensure you never miss a good deal, sign up for our newsletter below.
We promise to send you the best UK promotions.
Emma mattress UK delivery conditions
Your new mattress will be delivered free of charge within 1 - 3 working days anywhere within the UK. 🇬🇧
It is delivered rolled up, vacuum-sealed, and protected in a compact box specifically designed to fit through narrow passageways.
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This makes it ideal for those who want to upgrade to a king or super-king mattress but have concerns about getting it into the room.
Can Emma remove your old mattress?
Emma UK also offers an old mattress removal service at an additional cost - simply select this option upon checkout. 🛒
The relevant delivery company will remove your old mattress when delivering the new one.
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How does the Emma memory foam mattress expand?
If you're new to bed-in-a-box mattresses, you may be wondering how you'll get a full-size comfortable mattress out of the delivery box. 🤯
Emma mattress instructions:
- Place the box on your bed frame.
- Take out the still-rolled-up mattress.
- Cut open the plastic wrapping.
- Unfold your mattress.
- Take away all the excess wrapping.
The mattress expands almost instantly as soon as you break the vacuum seal and start removing the packaging.
However, we were delayed in unboxing our new mattress, which slowed down the expansion process.
Because of this, it took around 24 hours for our Emma mattress to fully expand.⏰
For best results, you should unbox your mattress within 4 weeks of receiving it.
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You can sleep on your Emma memory foam mattress as soon as it has reached its full size.
Off-gassing is completely normal
When you first unpack the mattress, you may notice a slight odour, referred to as off-gassing.
Off-gassing is neither toxic nor harmful, but it can be a little uncomfortable.
We recommend unpacking your new mattress in a well-ventilated room and letting it air out.
The smell should dissipate quickly - within a matter of hours or a few days at most.
The mattress we received only had a slight chemical smell, and it disappeared after a few hours.
Does the Emma mattress come with a trial period?
The Emma Original comes standard with a 200-night risk-free trial period, which begins with delivery. 🚚
Emma used to offer a 100-night trial, but the UK's trial period has since been extended.
This is great as it gives you even more time to try out the mattress in the comfort of your own home.
That being said, you shouldn't feel put off by your mattress if it's not comfortable on the first night.
After all, it can take 4 - 6 weeks to get used to a new mattress, and you won't know for sure if it's right for you until you've spent some time sleeping on it.
If you wake up with back pains or can't sleep well even after 6 weeks, the mattress might not be suitable for you.
Does your Emma mattress feel too soft or firm?
You can contact the Emma support team, who will happily send you an additional soft or firm comfort layer.
Emma is one of the only brands we know of that offers this service.
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Emma mattress returns
If at any point during the trial period you decide the mattress isn't right for you, you can return it.
Returns are free and organised and paid for by Emma UK.
Returns are also super easy - simply contact Emma's customer service via the returns portal.
You'll receive a full refund within 14 working days. 💰
There is no need to keep your Emma box or any original packaging to make use of the Emma returns process.
If you decide to return your Emma Original, the couriers ordered to pick up the mattress will arrive with the packing materials.
Are Emma mattresses good and should you buy one?
As our Emma mattress review has hopefully shown, we liked the Emma Original. 😁
It's a good mattress that will last you a long time!
We can recommend the Emma mattress as a best-buy option for:
- Light-weight or average-weight people or those of a more petite build.
- Side sleepers of any size.
- Couples looking for motion isolation.
- People with orthopaedic concerns.
- Children above the age of 6.
- Seniors (who will often find softer mattresses more comfortable).
- People who like soft mattresses.
We would not recommend the Emma mattress for:
- Back and front sleepers who are slightly larger or heavier.
- People who prefer firmer mattresses.
- Very restless sleepers.
Luckily, getting the Emma is a risk-free purchase.
If you find it's too soft for you, you can simply get a full refund.
Rating
Contact Emma UK
Customer service: To contact Emma UK directly for complaints, support, or queries, please e-mail them at support@emma-mattress.co.uk, visit their live online chat, or complete their online contact form. There is no direct UK Emma mattress contact number.
Registered office: Emma Matratzen GmbH, Wilhelm-Leuschner-Str. 78, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Frequently asked questions
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How is the Emma mattress made?
This short video by Emma gives you an excellent overview of how the boxed mattresses are made.
It also really explains the bed-in-a-box principle and shows the compression and rolling up of the mattress.
This answers many of the questions first-time bed-in-a-box mattress buyers may have.
Emma testing facility
Emma prototypes are tested by humans and high-tech machines at their testing facility.
These tests verify several elements, including motion isolation and durability.
- For the motion isolation tests, pressure is exerted onto one area of the mattress, which - if all goes well - sinks in while the rest of the mattress remains still.
- For the durability tests, heavy barrels are rolled along the mattress to see how well the mattress can withstand continuous pressure and heavy weights.
These tests ensure that all Emma Sleep mattresses are designed with high-quality features before they go into large-scale production.
Where are Emma mattresses made?
Emma is a German company, but all mattresses sold in the UK are also manufactured in the UK. 🇬🇧
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Are Emma memory foam mattresses safe to sleep on?
Emma UK complies with strict testing and safety requirements during the manufacturing process and ensures that all Emma Sleep mattresses comply with the BS 7177 regulation.
This means that the mattress is fire-retardant.
Emma products are also UKFR certified.
Even though the Emma is not an organic mattress, it contains no animal-based components and is 100% vegan.
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What's the Emma mattress guarantee?
The Emma memory foam mattress is made to last 10 years.
A 10-year warranty is fairly standard for bed-in-a-box mattresses.
You shouldn't experience any premature mattress sagging before this time, but make sure that you're using a proper bed frame that will keep your mattress evenly supported.
Any quality divan base, box spring, or slatted base will work.
You should also rotate your mattress regularly to ensure weight is distributed evenly to prevent any dips.
To ensure that you can rest easy and trust the quality of your purchase, it comes with a 10-year guarantee on manufacturing defects.
This warranty covers:
- Any dips or sags greater than 2.5 cm (0.9 inches) despite correct use.
- Cracks or hollows in the foam within the first 6 months of use.
- The mattress not inflating to the correct size despite a 2 cm (0.7 inches) leeway across all dimensions.
- Damaged zippers or faulty stitching.
Should any of these occur, Emma will exchange your mattress.
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How do I take care of my Emma memory foam mattress?
To make sure that your memory foam mattress lasts for as long as it's intended to, you need to take good care of it.
We answer your most frequently asked questions here.
Which bed base is best for my Emma mattress?
You can use any quality bed base as long as it provides a flat surface for your mattress.
We do not recommend slatted bases with gaps of more than 7.5 cm (3 inches).
This is because memory foam mattresses like the Emma tend to conform to this shape, leading to bumps and lumps in the long term.
Do I need to wash my Emma mattress?
No, washing the actual mattress is not recommended.
But, conveniently, it comes with a removable and machine-washable cover. 🛀
We would recommend washing this cover at a high temperature (up to 60℃) once every couple of months, provided you're using a mattress protector to protect your mattress otherwise.
We always recommend using a mattress protector.
If you're not using a mattress protector, you may need to wash your Emma cover more regularly.
You can also wash off single stains by hand, using a gentle washing detergent and a clean cloth.
What is the Emma mattress weight limit?
The Emma Original memory foam mattress has been designed to support a maximum weight of 130 kg (286 lbs).
If you exceed this upper weight limit, you're more likely to experience mattress sagging.
This will decrease the amount of support the mattress gives you, which may cause back pain.
It also drastically shortens the lifespan of your mattress.
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What are common Emma mattress problems?
While the Emma is a high-quality mattress, it won't be the perfect choice for all.
Common Emma mattress complaints include:
- The mattress is too soft.
- The mattress sleeps too hot.
Even though the Emma has temperature-regulating features, it's still a memory foam mattress and is likely to retain more heat than other types of mattresses.
If you prefer a cooler sleep, this mattress is not for you.
If the mattress feels too soft, you can reach out to the Emma team and request a firm comfort layer be added to your mattress.
You're unlikely to experience other Emma mattress problems, like premature sagging or dipping.
If you do experience Emma mattress sagging, this is likely because the individuals using the mattress exceed the maximum weight limit or the mattress has been placed on an unsuitable bed base.
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What does Emma do with returned mattresses?
Returned Emma mattresses don't go to waste.
Most of them are donated to charities - or sold as Emma refurbished mattresses.
![mattress disposal truck]()
If the mattresses are still in mint condition, they may also be refurbished and sold as Emma renewed mattresses via other Emma mattress stockists, such as eBay or Wowcher.
Don't worry - you don't need to search for any Emma refurbished mattress reviews.
All renewed mattresses are checked for damages and sterilised, and the inner and outer covers are replaced.
This effectively renders the mattresses new.
While a renewed Emma mattress review would give you the same results and quality assurance as this Emma Original mattress review UK, we recommend purchasing directly from Emma.
Renewed Emma mattresses may be available at a fraction of the original price, but they do not come with a trial period or a 10-year guarantee.
Many Wowcher Emma mattress offers actually sell refurbished Emma mattresses.
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Has Emma Sleep won any awards?
The Emma is an award-winning and bestselling mattress that's been ranked as one of the best mattresses in the UK for numerous years in a row. 🏆
It has received accolades from dozens of UK establishments, including Good Housekeeping, Ideal Home, Real Homes, T3, The Independent, and Which? Consumers’ Association.
The Emma Original mattress has also received several awards and recognitions in European countries, including the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany.
Finally, the company has a 4.1 rating and over 34 000 Emma mattress reviews UK on Trustpilot.
Emma Original Which? test results
The Emma Original was originally one of Which?'s highest-scoring mattresses and was rewarded with their Best Buy seal of approval.
Initially, the mattress received an astounding 80% and was described as supportive, breathable, stable, exceptionally durable, and very easy to move on.
But, retesting a few years later brought up some Emma mattress problems:
- Stability could be better.
- Breathability could be better.
These are common issues with memory foam mattresses.
On re-testing, Which? gave the Original mattress 73% and a "decent all-rounder" score.
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Can you tell me more about Emma Sleep?
Emma Sleep is a start-up company first established in Germany in 2015.
Contrary to popular belief, the name of the company doesn't pay tribute to the company's founder.
Instead, it is called Emma Mattress simply because "Emma" was a popular name when the business was first set up.
One of the leading thoughts behind starting Emma was to make the mattress market as transparent and consumer-oriented as the market in the United States.
The company's founder, Max Laarmann, believed that consumers should be able to buy a reasonably priced mattress online and benefit from a long and risk-free trial period.
Today, the company sells all over the UK, USA, Europe, Australia, and India.
The brand has also expanded and now offers a selection of mattresses and mattress accessories.
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Where can I buy the Emma mattress?
You can buy the Original Emma mattress directly through the Emma Sleep UK website.
But the product is also available on Amazon in the UK and via other Emma mattress stockists, including DFS and Carpetright.
Occasionally, you can even grab amazing John Lewis Emma mattress offers or Emma mattress Lidl sales.
The 10-year guarantee is valid if you purchase from an approved seller, though delivery conditions are subject to change.
Note, though, that you will only receive a 14-day trial and a 6-month guarantee if you purchase refurbished Emma mattresses through agents such as Wowcher, GoGroopie, or eBay.
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What payment options does Emma mattress UK offer?
You can purchase your Emma product on the Emma UK website via credit card or PayPal.
Online payments are secure.
Emma also offers financing options, and they’ve teamed up with Klarna to help you choose how and when to pay.
Simply select this option upon checkout.
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What is the Emma friend referral programme?
Emma UK used to offer a friend referral programme where you could share your unique code to give your friends a discount on their first purchase - and earn money in the process!
This programme has since been discontinued.
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What's the Emma mattress key worker discount?
Emma UK also offers an essential worker's discount for the following industries:
- Health service discounts for those working for the NHS
- Education discounts for all teachers
- Carer discounts for anyone working in this field
- Emergency service discounts for all emergency service workers
The key worker discount gives you an additional 6% off any purchase from the Emma UK website.
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Does Emma sell any other mattresses?
Emma has quite a few other mattresses available, including the:
- Emma Hybrid mattress
- Emma Premium mattress
- Emma Luxe Cooling mattress
Emma Sleep UK also used to sell the Emma Essential, the Emma One and the Emma Cot mattresses.
Unfortunately, these are currently not available in the United Kingdom. 🇬🇧
You can read all our other Emma mattress reviews, including the Emma Hybrid mattress review and Emma Premium mattress review, for more information.
What's the difference between the Emma Essential and the Emma Original mattress?
The Original is a high-quality memory foam mattress and Emma's flagship product.
The Emma Essential is a budget mattress.
It is made up of 2 layers of foam:
- Temperature-regulating and breathable hybrid foam
- Supportive HRX cold foam
The Emma Essential mattress has a height of 18 cm (7 inches) and is thus much thinner than the Original Emma mattress.
Like the Emma Original, the Emma Essential also features a washable cover and comes with free delivery.
While the Essential has with a 5-year guarantee, it does not come with a trial period.
The Emma Essential is cheaper and a good choice if you're on a budget.
What's the difference between the Emma Original and the Emma Hybrid?
Both the Original and the Emma Hybrid are high-quality mattresses by Emma.
The Original Emma is the flagship product made primarily of memory foam.
It is a soft mattress, most suitable for light- to average-weight side sleepers.
The Emma Mattress Hybrid, in contrast, is a hybrid mattress that features supportive mini pocket springs.
It is a softer mattress better suited to those looking for enhanced breathability.
Read our full Emma Original vs Emma Hybrid mattress comparison for a more in-depth contrast.
What's the difference between the Emma Original and the Emma Premium?
The Emma Premium is Emma's most advanced and innovative product.
Like the Original, it has upper comfort layers of Airgocell foam and memory foam, and you'll get the same level of comfort.
But it also features full-size pocket springs in a foam wall encasing and additional cold foam layers for superior point elasticity, edge-to-edge support, stability, and breathability.
The Emma Premium offers far more stability and breathability than the Emma Original. 💨
Read our full Emma Original vs Emma Premium mattress comparison for a more in-depth contrast.
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Can you give me some Emma mattress comparisons?
Are you more familiar with a different mattress and would like to find out how the Original Emma mattress compares?
The following mattress comparisons should be helpful, but reading our full Emma Original mattress review is the best way to determine if this is the right choice for you.
Which is better, the Eve mattress or the Emma mattress?
Both the Eve mattress and the Emma are made of high-quality materials, offer good support and stability, and provide a high comfort level.
However, they are suitable for different sleepers.
The Eve Original will be perceived as slightly firmer (6.5/10) while the Emma Original is slightly softer (6/10).
You can also read our full Emma vs Eve comparison for more information.
Should you choose the Emma or Simba mattress?
The Emma and the Simba mattress are very different.
While both are high-quality mattresses, they are suited to vastly different profiles.
The Emma is a medium memory foam mattress, making it most suitable for light- or average-weight side sleepers who enjoy that sleeping-on-a-cloud feel. ⛅️
![Composition of the Simba mattress]()
The Simba mattress is a hybrid mattress and features Aerocoil pocket springs and multiple layers of high-density foam.
This means that you get the advantages of both coils and foam.
Both provide a medium-firm feel, which we rated 6/10 for both mattresses.
The Simba Hybrid is better suited to heavier sweaters and restless sleepers than the Emma.
You can also read our full Emma vs Simba comparison for more information.
Is Emma better than Tempur?
Both of these products are made of high-quality memory foam.
Tempur is currently the only mattress brand that uses NASA-certified memory foam and is renowned for its superior quality. 🌎
However, Tempur mattresses are exceptionally expensive - often triple the price of the Emma Original!
If you have the budget, Tempur is an excellent choice.
That said, we would recommend opting for the Emma Sleep mattress - the quality is just as good, and it offers much better value for money.
Emma mattress vs Nectar mattress
Both the Emma Original and the Nectar mattress are high-quality memory foam mattresses.
But, the Nectar mattress is a little firmer and easier to move around on. 💃
We would recommend this one to restless sleepers and people who prefer a firmer feel.
![Nectar mattress]()
The Emma is best for people who like medium-feel mattresses.
Is the Emma mattress similar to the Casper mattress?
The Casper mattress is a popular mattress that's unfortunately no longer available in the UK.
Even though both the Emma and the Casper are memory foam mattresses, the Casper differs slightly:
- It's much firmer than the Emma mattress.
- It has a top layer of latex foam.
- The latex makes the mattress more comfortable to move on and reduces heat retention.
If you're interested, you can read our full Casper vs Emma mattress comparison for more guidance.
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What's the difference between the Emma Original and Emma Original Plus?
The Emma Original Plus is the latest mattress by Emma Sleep.
It has the exact same composition as the Emma Original mattress but with an advanced breathable cover.
This Emma Diamond Hybrid cover has temperature-regulating properties to help keep you cool at night.
It's also fully machine-washable!
This makes the Emma Original Plus an excellent choice for hot sleepers and allergy sufferers.
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What else does Emma Sleep UK sell?
A good mattress is essential, but Emma UK also offers other sleeping accessories and beds. 😴
Here's a quick overview of the Emma Sleep range:
- Bedding, including the Emma mattress protector
- Bed frames, including the Emma signature bed and the best-selling Emma divan bed
- Duvets, including the Emma Cloud duvet and the 4-Season duvet
- Pillows, including the Emma Original pillow and Emma Microfibre pillow
- Toppers, including the Emma Flip topper and the Emma Premium topper
- Other sleep and bedroom accessories, including the Emma Hug weighted blanket and underbed storage units
We've included a quick snapshot of our favourites below.
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References
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