As you’re looking to find the perfect mattress for your bed, you may have come across the term ‘no-turn’ and wondered what does it actually mean and why it’s relevant.
Helpfully, it’s actually a very easy term to understand, and we explain some of the ins and outs of no-turn mattresses below, before giving our verdict on whether or not they’re worth your time.
No-turn mattresses explained
When you see a mattress labelled as ‘no-turn,’ it means precisely that – you don’t need to (and shouldn’t) turn it. This is because the mattress has been designed in a way, so that a person can sleep on only one side of it.
No turn mattress can also be referred to as “single sided mattress” or “one sided mattress”. All of these terms essentially mean the same thing.
This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s unsafe to sleep on the other side of the mattress; it just means that you will most likely feel uncomfortable and won’t enjoy the benefits that the other side of the mattress provides.
One distinguishing feature of non-turn mattresses is that they’re typically built with a comfort layer that is not prone to settlement. You will find that memory foam, Geltex, and latex mattresses are most commonly labelled as no-turn for this exact reason.
Pros:
- Easier to care for, since you only need to rotate it (clock or counterclockwise).
- You don’t need to flip it over (which is good for elderly or disabled people, as mattresses can weigh 20-35kg).
- Some come with a plush pillow top, providing more comfort when you lay down.
- Wide range of no-turn mattresses to choose from.
Cons:
- In some cases, you will still need to rotate it (clock or counterclockwise) in order to maintain the longevity of the mattress.
- Make sure you buy a mattress with handles on each side, to aid with the rotation.
One example is the Dream Team Tadley Combination Mattress, which are labed as “non-turn” for easy care and maintenance.
A Tadley mattress has a cosy knitted cover on top, underneath that there is i-Fibre comfort layer and pressure-relieving memory foam. Lastly there is a layer of pocket springs, giving you enhanced pressure relief. On the bottom there is a supportive base fabric, which holds the mattress together.
As you can see from the composition and materials used inside the mattress, it is designed to sleep only on one side of it.
No Turn mattress: which side is up?
All mattresses should have a label on them, and generally the side with the label should be up or on top. Make sure you check any leaflets or instructions that come with your new mattress so you know which side is up.
Alternatively, you can contact the retailer where you bought your new mattress from, and ask them to clarify.
On the picture you can see the Silentnight Westland Miracoil Memory Mattress, which is 23.5cm high and is a single sided mattress (no-turn).
Place the mattress on your bed with the label on the top side.
According to the Silentnight care guide, you will need to rotate it head to toe weekly for the first 3 months after using it, and then once a month afterwards.
How do you maintain a no-turn mattress?
Just because your mattress is labelled as no turn, it doesn’t mean you don’t need to maintain it. No turn mattresses can still be rotated, which is a smart move if you’re keen to increase the life of your mattress.
Failing to rotate your mattress every few months or so will cause it to lose shape in the positions that you and your partner sleep in, so it’s a smart move to remember to rotate your mattress periodically.
Also, every type of mattress benefits from airing once in a while. Removing the sheets from the bed and opening a window to let some fresh air in a while your mattress is uncovered is a great way to stop your mattress from becoming mouldy.
Whether your mattress is no-turn or turn-able, these simple maintenance tips will increase the life and durability of your mattress.
What happens if I turn a non-turn mattress?
If you decide to turn a non-turn mattress and sleep on it, you’ll notice that it won’t be as comfortable and may lead to a poor sleep experience and even back pain. In some cases, the “bottom side” might be firmer than the “top side”.
Keep in mind that some mattress warranties may be void, if you do not follow the care and maintenance instructions.
Conclusion: Which is better?
Ultimately, it’s hard to say whether no-turn or turn-able mattresses are better – it’s often down to personal preference. Some mattresses, for instance, should be turned depending on the season, as one side is better for hot weather, while the other performs better when it’s cold.
Equally, some of the best mattresses out there are no-turn, as the mattress technology is configured so that you enjoy the benefits only on one side of the sleep surface. It’s not enough just to buy a mattress because it’s no turn or turn-able – this should just be one of the factors that you take into account.
Other things you should consider before you buy a new mattress:
- What materials are used in manufacturing the mattress. For example: memory foam, pocket springs, Bonnell springs, wool, recycled fibres, etc.
- How firm the mattress is (soft, medium, or firm).
- What is the price of the mattress and how long is the guarantee (1-10 years).
- Does the mattress come with a home trial and free return policy. Check out our list of mattresses with free home trials.
If you have chosen a mattress that meets all your requirements, the fact that it is no-turn or turn-able shouldn’t make a huge amount of difference, providing you maintain it.
