Choosing the Best Mattress for Airbnb & Holiday Lets

I’m Hannah Shore, Trade Expert and Head of Sleep Science here at Mattress Online. In this guide, I’ll explain exactly how to choose the right mattress for your Airbnb or holiday let.

A great night’s sleep is one of the biggest factors behind positive reviews and repeat bookings. If guests sleep poorly, even small issues can feel amplified - and that can show up in your ratings. But when they sleep well, they arrive at breakfast happier, overlook minor inconveniences, and are far more likely to re-book and recommend your property.

Your guests won’t remember the colour of the carpet or which tiles you picked in the bathroom, but they will remember a clean, comfortable bedroom and a restful night’s sleep. That’s why choosing the right mattress is one of the most impactful investments you can make.

In this article, I’ll walk you through what to look for in an Airbnb mattress, how much to spend, when to replace it, the key considerations for holiday-let properties and our expert trade recommendations - plus a handy mattress buying checklist.

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Who this guide is for

This guide is designed for Airbnb hosts, serviced accommodation providers and holiday let owners who are looking to balance guest comfort, fire-safety compliance and cost-efficiency.

Whether you run a single guest room or manage multiple short-term rentals, you’ll find practical advice to help you choose a mattress that meets regulations, fits your budget and keeps your guests comfortable and happy.

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How to choose the best mattress for your Airbnb or holiday let

When choosing a mattress for an Airbnb or holiday let, remember that you won’t be able to please every guest, but you can invest in a mattress that suits the vast majority. Your key priorities should be comfort, durability and ease of cleaning, all while meeting commercial-use expectations.

It also helps to think about who typically stays with you. Solo travellers, couples, families and longer-term guests all have slightly different needs, which will guide the level of investment and the type of mattress that makes sense for your property.

What to look out for

Once you know your typical guests, these are the core features to consider:

1. Reviews - Look for mattresses with at least a 4-star rating and read the written reviews. Consistent positive feedback is a strong indicator of comfort and long-term performance.
2. Price point - Balance cost with comfort and expected lifespan. Cheaper mattresses can work as short-term solutions but usually need replacing sooner.
3. Replacement cycle - Higher occupancy means faster wear. Factor this into your budget and your expected replacement schedule.
4. Firmness - Medium, medium to firm and firm mattresses tend to suit the widest range of sleepers and positions.
5. Size - Double mattresses and beds are the standard for holiday lets, but always choose the largest size your room can comfortably accommodate. Two adults in a double bed have less space than a baby in a cot, which increases partner disturbance and can worsen sleep quality. Remember: bigger beds equal happier guests.
6. Versatility - Choose a mattress that can accommodate a wide range of body types and sleeping needs, offering reliable comfort and support for most guests.
7. Durability - Look for good edge support and materials that resist sagging or dipping. A mattress that keeps its shape will deliver better sleep for longer.
8. Cleaning and maintenance - Consider how easy the mattress is to rotate (or flip), and whether bedding and protectors will fit the depth. Heavier or deeper models may be harder to manage between stays.
9. Manoeuvrability and transportation - Make sure the mattress can be transported easily through the property, including doorways, tight staircases and hallways.
10. Warranties and guarantees - Ensure there’s clear, reliable manufacturer coverage in the rare case of any faults.

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1. How often should you replace an Airbnb mattress?

I recommend replacing your holiday-let mattress around every 7 years, with regular checks between guest stays to monitor hygiene, wear and overall condition.

While an Airbnb mattress may not be slept on every night, it often experiences heavier and more varied use than a typical household bed. Guests are more likely to sit on the edges, place luggage on the bed or use the mattress as a surface for unpacking - all of which can speed up sagging or dipping.

There’s also a higher chance of spills and stains, simply because guests may eat, drink or relax differently than they would at home.

This makes it important to keep an eye on the mattress and be prepared for deep cleaning or replacement if needed.

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2. How much should you spend on an Airbnb mattress?

Here are my recommended price ranges for a double mattress. These can be used as a guide for other sizes, too:

• Budget: £150-£250 - a practical option for short-term stays or low-occupancy lets.
• Mid-range: £300-£500 - the best balance of comfort, durability and guest satisfaction for most holiday lets.
• Premium: £600-£1,000+ - ideal for boutique or luxury rentals where exceptional sleep quality supports higher nightly rates and excellent reviews.

If you’re looking to get the best value from your Airbnb mattress investment, here are a few tips:

• Keep an eye out for trade promotions and seasonal sales, such as January furniture sales, Black Friday or Boxing Day offers.
• Where possible, spending slightly more upfront often pays off in the long run through improved durability and fewer replacements.

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3. What mattress firmness is best for Airbnb guests?

Mattress firmness is always a matter of personal preference, but medium, medium to firm and firm mattresses tend to suit the widest range of guests. They work well for most body shapes and sizes, and firmer options generally keep their shape for longer.

It’s best to avoid very soft mattresses, as they can feel unsupportive for many sleepers.

Here’s a simple guide to help you understand what affects mattress firmness:

• Support unit (springs vs foam)
  • Most of the mattress’ firmness comes from the support system. Pocket springs are made from steel, so they maintain consistent support throughout the mattress’s lifespan. Foam support units can soften over time, which may affect firmness.
• Types of fillings
  • Polyester and natural fillings often feel slightly firmer at first, while foam comfort layers have more ‘give’ and offer better pressure relief. Each type has its benefits, depending on the feel you prefer for your property.
• Tufting and quilting
  • Tufted mattresses feel firmer because the tufts pull the internal layers tightly together. A micro-quilted surface adds a small comfort layer on top, creating a smoother feel.

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4. What size mattress and bed is best for Airbnb bedrooms?

A double mattress and bed is the standard for most Airbnb bedrooms, with single beds commonly used in kids rooms. However, wherever possible, it’s worth investing in the largest bed that comfortably fits the space.

Two adults sharing a double bed actually have less room each than a baby in a cot, which can lead to partner disturbance - especially in an unfamiliar environment. Poor sleep means poorer reviews, so opting for a larger size can make a noticeable difference to guest comfort.

Many guests also sleep on a king or superking at home, so offering a bigger bed can elevate your property and the overall sleeping experience. While some hosts choose smaller beds to make a room feel bigger, this is often a mistake - a larger bed and mattress almost always deliver a better guest experience.

If your property caters for families, consider providing two additional singles (whether standard frames or bunk beds) to allow for a wider mix of family sizes. For bunk beds, be aware that specific safety regulations apply, including rules on mattress depth and safety rails - as the property owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure compliance.

For wheelchair-accessible rooms, check that your chosen bed frame and mattress leave enough clearance to meet the recommended accessibility guidelines for your property.

Bed and mattress size guide for holiday lets

Bed / Mattress Size	Imperial	Metric
Single mattress	3' x 6'3"	90cm x 190cm
Small double mattress	4' x 6'3"	120cm x 190cm
Double mattress	4'6" x 6'3"	135cm x 190cm
King size mattress	5' x 6'6"	150cm x 200cm
Superking mattress	6' x 6'6"	180cm x 200cm

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5. What kind of mattress is best for an Airbnb?

Choosing the right mattress type is essential for guest comfort and long-term durability. Your mattress needs to be supportive, comfortable and able to withstand heavier use than a typical household bed. For most properties, a medium, medium to firm or firm feel works best.

It’s also important that your mattress is suitable for commercial use. Airbnb and holiday-let owners are responsible for arranging a fire risk assessment and, in many cases, a Crib 5 contract mattress is recommended to meet fire-safety expectations.

Mattress layers explained

Support layers

These layers form the ‘base’ of the mattress and have the biggest impact on firmness and long-term support.

Support Material	Pros	Cons
Springs (open coil or pocket springs)	Consistent support throughout the mattress’ lifespan Wide range of firmness and price options Pocket springs reduce motion transfer and partner disturbance	Usually heavier and harder to move Open coil systems feel bouncier
Foam support (reflex foam)	Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre Minimises motion transfer and partner disturbance	Softens over time, reducing support Can retain heat and feel very warm

Comfort layers

This layer sits on top of the support system and determines how the mattress feels when you lie down.

Comfort Material	Pros	Cons
Foam (memory foam, gel foam, latex)	Excellent pressure relief and contouring Creates a comfortable, cushioned feel	Can retain heat and feel very warm
Fibres (polyester or natural fillings)	Breathable and temperature-regulating - ideal as core body temperature must drop to fall asleep Often feels fresher and cooler	Can settle and compress more quickly than foam

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6. How to choose a durable mattress for your Airbnb or holiday let

As we mentioned earlier, mattresses in holiday lets typically experience heavier and less predictable use than those in a private home. Durability isn’t just about how long the support system lasts - it’s also about how well the edges, fillings and cover stand up to repeated sitting, unpacking and everyday guest habits.

Because many guests treat the bed like a sofa during their stay, good edge support is especially important to prevent dipping and extend the life of the mattress.

Top tips for choosing a durable mattress

• Choose a hard-wearing cover - look for strong, tightly woven fabrics that resist scuffs, snagging and early wear.
• Look for reinforced edges - strong edge support helps prevent sagging where guests sit most often and keeps the mattress feeling supportive for longer.
• Consider tufted mattresses - tufting helps hold fillings firmly in place, reducing settlement and helping the mattress maintain its shape.
• Foam comfort layers increase stability - foam fillings are less likely to shift or become displaced compared with natural fibres or polyester comfort layers.
• Opt for double-sided mattresses where possible - they require rotating and flipping, but this helps distribute wear evenly and significantly extends the mattress’s lifespan.

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7. Choosing a mattress that’s easy to transport and set up

Once you’ve settled on the right mattress type, make sure you can actually get it into your property - this is a step many hosts tend to overlook.

Before you buy, measure all access points: door frames, stairways, tight corners and low ceilings. This helps you avoid the nightmare of a mattress that simply won’t fit.

It’s also worth considering the weight of the mattress. Some mattresses - especially hybrid models - can be surprisingly heavy. If you’re carrying it upstairs or through narrow hallways, make sure you’ve got enough help on hand to move it safely.

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8. Understanding mattress warranties and guarantees for Airbnb use

Warranties and guarantees are especially important for commercial and Airbnb mattresses, as they face heavier and more frequent use than domestic ones. Look for options that provide at least a 1-3 year warranty or guarantee specifically valid for commercial settings.

Make sure you fully understand the terms: what’s covered, what isn’t and whether the cover explicitly applies to holiday lets or short-term rentals. If it’s unclear, contact the retailer or manufacturer to confirm before you buy.

Keep your proof of purchase and follow all care and maintenance guidelines to ensure your warranty stays valid. 

While manufacturing defects are rare, having the right cover in place gives you valuable peace of mind.

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9. How to clean and maintain an Airbnb mattress

No matter which mattress you choose, regular cleaning and proper care are essential. This keeps your sleep environment hygienic for guests and helps your mattress last as long as possible.

Mattress protectors

A mattress protector is an absolute must for any holiday-let mattress - in fact, using two is often the best approach.

Mattresses are difficult to clean and take a long time to dry, meaning you could lose a night’s booking if it gets soaked. Protectors are far easier to wash and replace and they safeguard your mattress from spills, stains and sweat.

Recommended setup:

• One waterproof protector - protects the mattress from spills, accidents and moisture
• One quilted protector - adds comfort and removes the ‘slippery’ feel some guests notice with waterproof covers
• Fitted sheets on top - ensures a comfortable and clean finish

This simple combination saves money in the long run by preventing damage and extending the life of your mattress.

Rotating and flipping your mattress

All mattresses need routine rotation, and some also need flipping. This helps fillings settle evenly and prevents early dipping or sagging.

• Single-sided mattresses: rotate only
• Double-sided mattresses: rotate and flip

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended schedule for best results.

Airbnb and holiday-let mattress cleaning schedule and checklist

Remember to clean your bedding and mattress in-line with the manufacturer’s care guide.

Between guest stays

1. Wash all bedding and pillow protectors
2. Check for spills, stains or odours
3. Spot-clean gently if needed (avoid soaking foam or latex mattresses)
4. Rotate or flip the mattress if required
5. Air the mattress before re-dressing
6. Replace protectors if stained

Every quarter

1. Deep clean the mattress and bed frame
2. Inspect for wear, sagging or persistent odours
3. Replace protectors if torn or worn out
4. In hot weather, refresh protectors more frequently due to increased sweating

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Common mistakes hosts make when choosing Airbnb mattresses

Even with the best intentions, a few frequent slip-ups can lead to uncomfortable guests or unexpected costs. 

Here are the most common mistakes to avoid:

• Choosing the cheapest mattress and replacing it too often - a low upfront cost usually means a shorter lifespan. Investing slightly more can save you money in the long run.
• Overlooking Crib 5 fire safety compliance - Crib 5 rated furniture is strongly recommended for all commercial properties.
• Not checking access routes before delivery - door frames, stairwells and tight corners can make getting a mattress into the room far harder than expected.
• Skipping mattress protectors - mattress protectors are essential for hygiene, longevity and quick changeovers between guests.
• Choosing a mattress that’s too soft or niche - excessive softness or unusual mattress designs can feel uncomfortable for a lot of guests. Aim for a supportive, medium to firm-feel mattress that suits most sleepers.

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Airbnb mattress buying checklist

Now to wrap it all up, here’s my complete Airbnb mattress buying checklist:

• Set a realistic budget and replacement plan (typically every 7 years).
• Choose a firmness that suits most guests (medium, medium to firm or firm).
• Pick the largest mattress size the room can comfortably accommodate.
• Select the right mattress type (pocket springs, foam, latex or hybrid) based on support and guest comfort.
• Check durability features such as reinforced edges, sturdy covers and tufting.
• Ensure easy maintenance with mattress protectors and simple cleaning and rotation requirements.
• Confirm the mattress can be delivered and moved through your property (measure access points and tight spaces, consider the weight).
• Review warranty terms and fire-safety compliance (Crib 5 is recommended for commercial use).

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A mattress in a holiday let isn’t just another piece of furniture - it’s one of the biggest factors influencing your guests’ comfort, reviews and likelihood to return. Choosing the right one is an investment in your property’s reputation, guest satisfaction and long-term value.

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