Mellsom 3FT Gel Memory Foam 7 Zone Pocket Sprung Mattress Review: The Budget Hybrid That Redefines Value

For years, I believed a truly restorative night’s sleep was a luxury, a high-priced investment that was always just out of reach. My old single mattress, a relic from a well-known Swedish furniture store, had developed sags and dips that seemed to map out my body’s pressure points with painful accuracy. Every morning was a gamble: would it be a stiff lower back, aching shoulders, or just the dull fatigue that comes from a night spent fighting your own bed? The search for a replacement was daunting. The market is flooded with options, from ultra-cheap foam slabs that feel like glorified camping mats to premium “bed-in-a-box” brands with four-figure price tags. I needed something different—a mattress that offered modern features like orthopedic support and cooling technology without emptying my wallet. The consequences of poor sleep are too great; it affects everything from mood and concentration to long-term health. That’s what led me to the Mellsom 3FT Gel Memory Foam 7 Zone Pocket Sprung Mattress, a product promising a hybrid design and targeted support at a price that seemed almost too good to be true.

What to Consider Before Buying a Hybrid Mattress

A mattress is more than just an item of furniture; it’s a key solution for improving your physical and mental well-being. A quality mattress provides the foundation for deep, restorative sleep, which is essential for muscle repair, memory consolidation, and overall health. Hybrid mattresses, in particular, aim to deliver the best of both worlds: the contouring pressure relief of memory foam and the responsive, breathable support of pocket springs. They tackle common sleep problems like overheating (thanks to gel-infused foams and airflow through the coil layer), partner disturbance (due to individually wrapped springs), and poor spinal alignment (addressed by zoned support systems). The primary benefit is a balanced, supportive, and comfortable sleep surface that adapts to your body.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing common sleep issues like back pain, restlessness, or sleeping hot, who wants a significant upgrade from a basic foam or traditional sprung mattress without committing to a premium price point. It’s perfect for master bedrooms, guest rooms, and teenagers’ rooms. As one user happily noted after swapping it for their expensive name-brand mattress, it can often outperform its pricier rivals. However, it might not be suitable for those who have a strong preference for an extremely firm, board-like surface or the deep, enveloping “sinking” sensation of a very soft, traditional memory foam mattress. For those individuals, a dedicated orthopedic firm mattress or a pure memory foam model might be a better fit.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: Ensure the mattress dimensions (90x190x20cm for this single model) perfectly match your bed frame. An ill-fitting mattress can slide around or create unsafe gaps. The 20cm (8-inch) height is a versatile profile that fits most standard and bunk beds, but always measure your frame’s headboard height and side rails to ensure a good fit.
• Firmness & Support: “Medium Firm” is the most popular firmness level, but it can be subjective. This mattress is designed to provide a balance of comfort and support, which is ideal for back and side sleepers. The 7-zone system is the key performance feature here, offering softer support for shoulders and firmer support for the hips and lower back to encourage proper spinal alignment.
• Materials & Durability: A hybrid construction is a sign of a modern, well-engineered mattress. The Mellsom combines a gel memory foam comfort layer for cooling and pressure relief, high-density support foam, and a core of 700 individually pocketed coils. This multi-layer design is generally more durable and breathable than an all-foam alternative. The knitted fabric cover adds to the breathability and provides a soft-to-the-touch surface.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: The “mattress-in-a-box” delivery is incredibly convenient, especially for navigating tight stairs and hallways. However, remember the mandatory 72-hour expansion period for the foam to reach its full size and firmness. For long-term care, using a mattress protector is non-negotiable, and the recommendation to rotate the mattress every 3-5 months will ensure even wear and prolong its lifespan.

While the Mellsom 3FT Gel Memory Foam 7 Zone Pocket Sprung Mattress is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: The Magic of the Mattress-in-a-Box

The Mellsom 3FT Gel Memory Foam 7 Zone Pocket Sprung Mattress arrived in a surprisingly compact and manageable box. Having wrestled full-size mattresses up staircases in the past, this was a welcome relief. Many user reviews mentioned concerns about the weight and difficulty of unpacking, but I found it quite straightforward. At 17kg, it’s substantial enough to feel high-quality, but not so heavy that one person can’t manoeuvre it into position. The box included a handy safety opener, which is a thoughtful touch to prevent accidental cuts to the mattress fabric.

The real magic happens when you break the vacuum seal. It’s quite a spectacle to watch the mattress unfurl and expand, transforming from a tight roll into a full-sized, 8-inch deep bed in a matter of minutes. The initial inflation is rapid, though it’s crucial to heed the manufacturer’s advice and allow a full 72 hours for it to reach its final shape and firmness. The top cover, a grey and white knitted fabric, felt soft, breathable, and well-stitched, giving an immediate impression of quality that belies its budget-friendly price point. It looked and felt far more premium than other mattresses I’ve tested in this category, and you can see the quality in the detailed product images available online.

A Deep Dive into the Mellsom’s Performance

After allowing the mattress to fully expand for three days, it was time to put it to the ultimate test. My expectations were cautiously optimistic, but I can say without hesitation that this mattress performs on a level that far exceeds its price tag. Over several weeks of testing, I analysed its core features, from the zoned support to its cooling properties and motion isolation.

The 7-Zone Support System: A Revolution for Back and Side Sleepers

The standout feature of the Mellsom 3FT Gel Memory Foam 7 Zone Pocket Sprung Mattress is undoubtedly its sophisticated support system. A flat, uniform surface can’t possibly provide optimal support for the human body, which has varying weights and contours. This is where the 7-zone design shines. In our testing, we could physically feel the difference in firmness across the mattress. The central third, designed to support the heavier lumbar and hip region, felt noticeably firmer and more robust. This prevented the common “hammocking” effect where your hips sink too low, throwing your spine out of alignment. One user who bought it specifically for backache confirmed our findings, stating, “My back pain getting a lots of better after sleep.”

Conversely, the zones at the shoulder and foot levels were slightly more forgiving. As a primary side sleeper, this was a revelation. My shoulder could sink comfortably into the mattress without the usual pressure build-up, while my spine remained straight. This targeted cushioning is what makes it so effective at pressure relief. We found it adapted well to all sleeping positions, but side and back sleepers will reap the most significant benefits. This intelligent design is a feature that really sets it apart from other budget mattresses, which typically use a single-firmness spring or foam block.

Hybrid Harmony: How Gel Foam and Pocket Springs Create a Balanced Sleep

The term “hybrid” is key to understanding this mattress’s success. It isn’t just one material, but a carefully layered system. The top layer of gel memory foam provides that initial “cuddly” comfort one user excitedly described. It contours to your body shape, but not so dramatically that you feel stuck. The infusion of gel is crucial for temperature regulation. Traditional memory foam has a reputation for trapping heat, but we found the Mellsom remained comfortably cool throughout the night, thanks to both the gel and the inherent breathability of the spring layer below.

Beneath the foam lies the core of 700 individually pocketed springs. This is a massive upgrade from old-fashioned open coil systems. Because each spring moves independently, the mattress excels at motion isolation. We tested this by placing a glass of water on one side and moving around on the other; there was minimal disturbance. This is a game-changer for anyone who shares a bed, even a larger version of this single model. One reviewer confirmed this, noting, “I can barely feel my partner’s movements at the night.” This combination of foam and springs creates a perfect balance: the foam relieves pressure, while the springs provide the responsive, “bouncy” support that prevents you from feeling bogged down and makes changing positions effortless.

Build Quality, Edge Support, and Long-Term Outlook

For a mattress at this price point, the build quality is impressive. The tight-top design and the high-quality knitted fabric feel durable and well-constructed. Another important, and often overlooked, aspect of mattress construction is edge support. Cheaper mattresses often collapse at the sides when you sit on them, reducing the usable sleeping surface. The Mellsom 3FT Gel Memory Foam 7 Zone Pocket Sprung Mattress features enhanced edge support, and while it’s not as rigid as a £1000 mattress, it was perfectly stable for sitting on to put on shoes and provided a secure feeling right to the edge of the bed when sleeping.

The manufacturer backs the product with a 100-night trial and a 10-year support guarantee, which is a significant indicator of their confidence in its longevity. This provides immense peace of mind. As with any mattress, proper care is essential. We recommend using a waterproof mattress protector to shield it from spills and allergens, and following the guidance to rotate it head-to-toe every few months. With this minimal maintenance, we see no reason why this mattress wouldn’t provide years of comfortable sleep, making its value proposition even stronger. The overall durability feels solid, as one user put it, “The mattress feels durable and quality-built because it’s heavy.” For those looking for a reliable and long-lasting sleep solution, you can check the latest price and trial information here.

What Other Users Are Saying

The sentiment across the board for the Mellsom mattress is overwhelmingly positive, with many users expressing surprise at the quality relative to the cost. A recurring theme is the direct comparison to far more expensive brands. One user stated, “Mate of mine has a Simba mattress for £1200 and I’m not lying when I say Mellsom mattresses are just as comfortable… that’s a bargain!!!” Another had returned a £600 mattress from a major retailer due to sagging and back pain, only to find the Mellsom to be of “absolutely amazing quality,” resulting in “the best nights sleep I’ve ever had.”

This experience of it being comfier than a primary, more expensive mattress was echoed by another customer who “Bought for our spare bedroom, realised it was comfier than our named brand mattress and we swapped!” The praise consistently focuses on the perfect balance of comfort and support. Minor criticisms are few and far between. One user found it “maybe slightly too soft” for their personal preference, which highlights the subjective nature of firmness. Another noted the colour was slightly different from the online photos, a minor aesthetic point that doesn’t affect performance. These small notes aside, the consensus is clear: the Mellsom 3FT Gel Memory Foam 7 Zone Pocket Sprung Mattress delivers a premium sleep experience on a budget.

How the Mellsom Compares to the Alternatives

While the Mellsom stands strong on its own, it’s helpful to see how it fits into the broader market. We’ve compared it to three other products to help you make the most informed decision.

1. BEDZONLINE Memory Foam Mattress 3ft Single Orthopaedic

The BEDZONLINE mattress is an all-foam option, contrasting with the Mellsom’s hybrid design. At only 11cm thick, it’s significantly thinner than the Mellsom’s 20cm profile. This mattress is best suited for those on the tightest of budgets or for use in situations where a low profile is essential, such as for a trundle bed or some bunk beds. Its firm, orthopaedic support comes from reflex foam, which provides a much less contouring and more “on top of the bed” feel compared to the Mellsom’s memory foam. If you strongly dislike any bounce and prefer a very firm, basic foam surface, this could be your choice. However, for most users, the Mellsom’s superior thickness, zoned support, and breathable hybrid construction will provide a far more comfortable and sophisticated sleep experience.

2. Direct Manufacturing King Mattress Storage Bag

This product is not a mattress but an essential accessory for one. This heavy-duty storage bag is designed to protect a mattress during a move or while in storage. It’s an apples-to-oranges comparison, but it highlights a crucial aspect of mattress ownership: protection and maintenance. While the Mellsom mattress provides the comfort, this bag provides the peace of mind that your investment is safe from dust, moisture, and damage. For anyone anticipating a house move, needing to store a guest mattress, or simply wanting to protect their old mattress when the new Mellsom arrives, this storage bag is a practical and necessary purchase to consider alongside your new mattress.

3. Vesgantti 3FT Single 10.6 Inch Pocket Sprung Pillow Top Mattress Medium

The Vesgantti mattress represents a step up in terms of thickness and luxury, making it the Mellsom’s closest competitor here. At 10.6 inches (around 27cm), it’s considerably thicker and features an added pillow top for a plusher, more hotel-like initial feel. This makes it an excellent alternative for those who want a medium firmness but with extra surface cushioning. Both mattresses use a hybrid construction of foam and pocket springs. The choice between them comes down to budget and preference. If you want a slightly more luxurious and plush feel and have a bit more to spend, the Vesgantti is a superb option. If you prefer a slightly more direct support feel and want to maximize value, the Mellsom 3FT Gel Memory Foam 7 Zone Pocket Sprung Mattress offers many of the same core benefits in a more streamlined and affordable package.

The Final Verdict: Is the Mellsom Mattress Worth Your Money?

After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is an emphatic yes. The Mellsom 3FT Gel Memory Foam 7 Zone Pocket Sprung Mattress is a phenomenal product that completely redefines what’s possible in the budget mattress category. It successfully integrates features like 7-zone orthopedic support, cooling gel memory foam, and motion-isolating pocket springs—technologies that were, until recently, reserved for much more expensive models. It provides a sleep surface that is supportive, pressure-relieving, and remarkably comfortable.

We would wholeheartedly recommend this mattress to almost anyone. It’s an outstanding choice for a child’s or teenager’s bedroom, a spare room that you want to feel genuinely welcoming, or for any adult who wants to drastically improve their sleep quality without breaking the bank. It strikes a near-perfect balance between comfort and support that will suit the vast majority of sleepers, particularly those who sleep on their back or side. For the price, the quality and performance are simply unmatched. If you’re ready to stop compromising on sleep and invest in your well-being, we highly recommend you give the Mellsom mattress a try.

Last update on 2025-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API