Nectar vs. Simba: Which Mattress is Right for You?
Written by
Daniel Zvi
The Nectar Mattress and the Simba Hybrid Mattress are two of the most sought-after bed-in-a-box options in the UK, each offering exceptional comfort and innovative technologies. While Simba is renowned for its hybrid designs that blend foam and spring layers, Nectar has made a name for itself with high-quality memory foam mattresses that deliver pressure relief and unparalleled support. In this detailed comparison, we’ll explore the differences between these two brands to help you make an informed choice for your sleep needs.
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9.9
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Brand Overview
Nectar Sleep
Established in 2017, Nectar Sleep has rapidly become a prominent name in the UK's mattress industry, renowned for its high-quality memory foam and hybrid mattresses that emphasize pressure relief, spinal alignment, and overall comfort. Nectar is also committed to environmental sustainability, with all its mattresses being carbon-neutral.
Current Mattress Range:
- Nectar Memory Foam Mattress: A 25 cm thick medium-firm mattress featuring triple layers designed to offer sumptuous comfort and superb spinal alignment.
- Nectar Hybrid Mattress: Combines the comforting benefits of memory foam with a layer of micro-springs, enhancing breathability and facilitating localized movement for a disruption-free sleep.
- Nectar Premier Mattress: A 28 cm thick medium-firm mattress containing 33% more memory foam for additional body-hugging comfort and minimal motion transfer.
- Nectar Premier Hybrid Mattress: Features micro springs, deep springs, and memory foam, providing sumptuous support and comfort for an unrivaled night's sleep.
- Nectar Essential Hybrid Mattress: A 25 cm thick deep sprung hybrid mattress designed to offer responsive support through 15 cm high gauge springs, combined with layers of premium foam for a unique hybrid experience.
Nectar distinguishes itself with a 365-night home trial and a forever warranty, underscoring its confidence in product quality and dedication to customer satisfaction.
Simba Sleep
Founded in 2002, Simba Sleep has revolutionized hybrid mattress technology, combining Aerocoil® springs and Simbatex® foam to deliver optimal support, cooling, and pressure relief. Simba is also dedicated to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and processes.
Current Mattress Range:
- Simba Hybrid® Essential: An entry-level hybrid mattress offering basic comfort and support.
- Simba Hybrid® Original: The flagship model combining Simbatex® foam and Aerocoil® springs for balanced support and airflow.
- Simba Hybrid® Pro: An upgraded hybrid with a natural wool layer and dual spring systems for enhanced comfort and cooling.
- Simba Hybrid® Luxe: A premium mattress with multiple spring layers, advanced cooling features, and superior support.
- Simba Hybrid® Ultra: The most advanced model featuring dual Aerocoil® layers, bamboo wool, and advanced zoned support for luxury comfort.
Simba provides a 200-night trial and a 10-year warranty, giving customers peace of mind and a risk-free purchase experience.
Construction Compared
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress is an all-foam mattress designed to provide pressure relief, spinal alignment, and optimal comfort. Its construction consists of five layers:
- Cooling Cover: A breathable, quilted cover infused with cooling technology to wick away heat and moisture.
- Gel-Infused Memory Foam: Contours to the body, providing pressure relief while maintaining a comfortable sleeping temperature.
- Dynamic Support Layer: Adaptive foam that adds bounce and responsiveness, ensuring smooth movement on the mattress surface.
- 7-Zone Foam Base: A supportive base designed to align the spine and provide targeted pressure relief for key areas like shoulders and hips.
- Positioning Base Layer: A durable foundation that stabilizes the mattress and ensures longevity.
The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress is 25 cm thick and caters to sleepers who enjoy the contouring, body-hugging feel of memory foam.
Simba Hybrid Original
The Simba Hybrid Original combines foam and Aerocoil® springs to deliver responsive support, breathability, and pressure relief. It is constructed with five layers:
- Breathable Sleep Surface: A knitted hypoallergenic cover that enhances airflow and keeps the surface cool.
- Simbatex® Foam: Graphite-infused, open-cell foam that disperses heat and provides gentle contouring.
- Aerocoil® Spring Layer: Up to 2,500 conical springs that offer localized support and motion isolation while promoting airflow.
- High-Definition Transition Layer: Adds cushioning and reinforces edge support for a consistent sleep experience across the mattress.
- Zoned Support Base: A durable foam base with targeted support zones for the shoulders, hips, and lower back.
The Simba Hybrid Original is 25 cm thick and offers a balance of comfort and responsiveness, ideal for sleepers seeking a hybrid design.
Key Construction Differences
- Core Materials: Nectar relies entirely on memory foam, while Simba incorporates a hybrid design with foam and Aerocoil® springs.
- Cooling Features: Simba’s Aerocoil® springs enhance airflow, whereas Nectar uses a cooling cover and gel-infused foam to regulate temperature.
- Support: Simba’s zoned support base provides targeted relief for key pressure points, while Nectar’s 7-zone foam base caters to spinal alignment.
Firmness & Feel Compared
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress has a medium firmness, scoring approximately 6 out of 10 on the firmness scale. This level of firmness provides a balance of soft contouring and sturdy support, making it an excellent choice for a variety of sleep positions.
Key Characteristics:
- Pressure Relief: The memory foam layers cradle the body, relieving pressure on sensitive areas like the shoulders, hips, and lower back.
- Motion Isolation: Memory foam absorbs movement exceptionally well, making it ideal for couples or restless sleepers.
- Body Hugging: The mattress has a traditional memory foam feel, contouring closely to the body for a snug, cocoon-like sleep experience.
Best For:
- Side sleepers who need cushioning for the shoulders and hips.
- Back sleepers seeking spinal alignment with a softer feel.
- Couples who value motion isolation.
More details
CertiPUR Certified foam
Supports all sleep positions
365-day sleep trial & forever warranty
Free named day delivery
Limited customer support availability
Not organic
Check Price
Simba Hybrid Original
The Simba Hybrid Original is also a medium-firm mattress, scoring around 6.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale. Its hybrid design strikes a balance between comfort and support, offering responsiveness without sacrificing pressure relief.
Key Characteristics:
- Balanced Support: The Aerocoil® spring layer provides responsive support, while the Simbatex® foam offers gentle contouring.
- Breathability: The hybrid design promotes airflow, ensuring a cooler sleep environment.
- Edge Support: Reinforced edges provide stability for sleepers who like to use the full mattress surface.
Best For:
- Combination sleepers who shift positions during the night.
- Back and stomach sleepers who prefer a slightly firmer surface.
- Hot sleepers who benefit from the cooling properties of a hybrid design.
More details
CertiPUR certified means the foam is free of harmful chemicals
Made from 100% recycled materials
Removable & washable hypoallergenic cover
360-degree high-density foam border for edge support
200 night trial period & 10-Year guarantee
No 24/7 support
Not 100% organic materials
Key Differences in Firmness & Feel
- Firmness Levels: Nectar is slightly softer (6/10) and more body-hugging, while Simba leans towards medium-firm (6.5/10) with a touch more responsiveness.
- Sleep Positions: Nectar excels for side sleepers, while Simba is better suited for back and stomach sleepers.
- Motion Isolation: Both mattresses perform well, but Nectar’s memory foam edges out Simba in motion isolation for couples.
- Cooling: Simba’s hybrid design offers better airflow and temperature regulation compared to Nectar’s all-foam construction.
Temperature Regulation Compared
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress incorporates features designed to address the traditional heat retention issues associated with memory foam. Key elements include:
- Cooling Cover: The breathable, quilted cover wicks away moisture and heat to keep the sleep surface cool throughout the night.
- Gel-Infused Memory Foam: This layer disperses body heat 30 times more effectively than traditional memory foam, ensuring a more comfortable sleep experience.
- Adaptive Foam Layers: Each foam layer is engineered for breathability, preventing the mattress from trapping excessive heat.
While Nectar offers effective cooling solutions, it may still feel slightly warmer than a hybrid mattress, particularly for naturally hot sleepers.
Simba Hybrid Original
The Simba Hybrid Original excels in temperature regulation, leveraging its hybrid design to promote airflow and maintain a cool sleep environment. Key features include:
- Breathable Sleep Surface: The hypoallergenic knitted cover enhances airflow and wicks away heat and moisture.
- Simbatex® Foam: Graphite-infused foam actively disperses heat, preventing it from building up near the sleep surface.
- Aerocoil® Spring Layer: The pocket springs create spaces within the mattress, allowing warm air to escape and cool air to circulate.
The combination of foam and springs makes Simba a strong choice for hot sleepers who value temperature neutrality.
Key Differences in Temperature Regulation
- Cooling Technology: Nectar uses gel-infused foam and a cooling cover, while Simba relies on Aerocoil® springs and graphite-infused foam for enhanced airflow and heat dispersion.
- Hybrid Advantage: Simba’s hybrid design naturally provides better breathability, making it the cooler option overall.
- Suitability for Hot Sleepers: While both mattresses address heat retention, Simba has the edge for those who struggle with night sweats or live in warmer climates.
Edge Support Compared
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress provides moderate edge support, which is typical for all-foam mattresses. The 7-zone foam base layer is designed to maintain stability across the mattress, but users may notice some compression when sitting or sleeping near the edges.
Key Features:
- Even support across the mattress surface for consistent comfort.
- Softer foam layers may cause slight sinking at the edges.
While adequate for most sleepers, those who frequently use the edges for sitting or prefer a firmer perimeter may find the edge support lacking compared to hybrid models.
Simba Hybrid Original
The Simba Hybrid Original offers superior edge support thanks to its High-Definition Transition Layer and reinforced Zoned Support Base. These features ensure stability and durability around the mattress perimeter, making the edges feel secure and usable for both sitting and sleeping.
Key Features:
- Reinforced edges prevent excessive sagging.
- Ideal for couples or individuals who like to use the full mattress surface.
Simba’s edge support is one of its standout features, providing a reliable and supportive sleep experience across the entire mattress.
Key Differences in Edge Support
- Foam vs. Hybrid: Nectar’s all-foam construction offers decent support but lacks the reinforced perimeter found in Simba’s hybrid design.
- Stability: Simba’s edge support is firmer and more robust, making it a better choice for those who value a secure mattress edge.
- Usability: Simba’s reinforced edges allow for more usable surface area, especially for couples or those with smaller bed frames.
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Motion Isolation Compared
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress excels in motion isolation, a key benefit of its all-foam construction. The memory foam layers absorb movement effectively, preventing it from traveling across the mattress. This makes it an ideal choice for couples or those who share a bed with a restless partner.
Key Features:
- Excellent motion absorption for minimal disturbance.
- Superior performance for light sleepers or partners with different sleep schedules.
With virtually no motion transfer, Nectar is one of the best options for those seeking uninterrupted sleep
Simba Hybrid Original
The Simba Hybrid Original also performs well in motion isolation, though its hybrid design introduces a slight bounce due to the Aerocoil® spring layer. While the springs provide responsiveness, the Simbatex® foam layer helps to dampen motion and reduce transfer across the mattress.
Key Features:
- Responsive spring layer allows for some motion transfer.
- Foam layers minimize disturbances, offering good motion isolation overall.
Although Simba’s motion isolation is effective, it may not be as seamless as Nectar’s all-foam design.
Key Differences in Motion Isolation
- Foam vs. Hybrid: Nectar’s memory foam design offers near-perfect motion isolation, while Simba’s hybrid construction sacrifices a small amount of isolation for added responsiveness.
- Suitability for Couples: Both mattresses perform well, but Nectar is the clear winner for couples or those who are sensitive to partner movements.
- Balance: Simba’s motion isolation is still strong, particularly for a hybrid mattress, and offers the added benefit of spring responsiveness.
Size & Pricing Compared
When choosing a mattress, size options and pricing are critical considerations. Both the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress and the Simba Hybrid Original are available in a variety of UK and EU sizes, offering options for most bed frame dimensions. Below is a comprehensive size and pricing comparison:
| Size | Nectar Memory Foam Mattress | Simba Hybrid Original |
|---|---|---|
| UK Single (90x190 cm) | £349 | £599 |
| UK Small Double (120x190 cm) | £499 | £799 |
| UK Double (135x190 cm) | £499 | £799 |
| UK King (150x200 cm) | £549 | £899 |
| UK Super King (180x200 cm) | £599 | £999 |
| EU Single (90x200 cm) | NA | £649 |
| EU Double (140x200 cm) | NA | £849 |
| EU Queen (160x200 cm) | NA | £949 |
Key Notes
- Affordability: Nectar offers lower prices across all sizes compared to Simba, making it the more budget-friendly option.
- Hybrid Advantage: Simba’s higher prices reflect its advanced hybrid design, which includes Aerocoil® springs for additional support and airflow.
- Trial & Warranty:
- Nectar: Comes with a 365-night trial and a forever warranty, providing unparalleled confidence and long-term protection.
- Simba: Offers a 200-night trial and a 10-year warranty, reflecting strong assurance in product quality.
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Environmental Impact Compared
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
Nectar Sleep places a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmentally conscious manufacturing practices. Key initiatives include:
- Carbon Neutral Certification: All Nectar mattresses are carbon neutral, achieved through sustainable production processes and partnerships with organizations like ClimatePartner.
- CertiPUR Certified Foam: Nectar uses foams that are free from harmful chemicals, ensuring a healthier sleep environment and reducing environmental impact.
- Recyclable Materials: The materials used in Nectar mattresses are designed to minimize waste and environmental harm.
These efforts make Nectar a great choice for eco-conscious consumers looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Simba Hybrid Original
Simba Sleep is equally committed to reducing its environmental impact, implementing several sustainability initiatives:
- Zero-Waste Manufacturing: Simba’s production process generates zero waste, with all by-products recycled.
- Eco-Friendly Materials: The Simbatex® foam is plant-based, while other materials are sourced with sustainability in mind.
- Vegan Friendly: Simba mattresses do not use animal products or materials tested on animals.
- B Corp Certification: Simba has achieved B Corp status, demonstrating a commitment to high environmental and social performance standards.
Simba’s dedication to sustainability is reflected in its production practices and choice of materials, aligning with environmentally friendly values.
Key Differences in Environmental Impact
- Carbon Neutrality: Nectar’s partnership with ClimatePartner ensures all its mattresses are carbon neutral, while Simba emphasizes zero-waste manufacturing.
- Certifications: Both brands hold CertiPUR certification, but Simba’s B Corp status highlights its broader commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
- Materials: Simba uses plant-based foam and vegan-friendly practices, whereas Nectar focuses on carbon-neutral production.
Final Verdict: Nectar Memory Foam vs. Simba Hybrid Original
Choosing between the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress and the Simba Hybrid Original comes down to your personal sleep preferences and priorities. Both mattresses excel in comfort, support, and customer-friendly policies, but they cater to slightly different needs.
Why Choose the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress?
Key Strengths:
- Superior Motion Isolation: Ideal for couples, Nectar eliminates almost all motion transfer, ensuring uninterrupted sleep.
- Budget-Friendly: Nectar offers lower prices across all sizes, making it a cost-effective choice without compromising on quality.
- Unmatched Warranty & Trial: A 365-night trial and forever warranty set the industry standard for customer protection.
- Pressure Relief: The memory foam layers contour closely to the body, making it especially suitable for side sleepers and those with joint pain.
Best For:
- Side sleepers needing pressure relief on shoulders and hips.
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking long-term value.
- Couples or light sleepers prioritizing motion isolation.
Why Choose the Simba Hybrid Original?
Key Strengths:
- Hybrid Comfort: Combines the responsiveness of Aerocoil® springs with the contouring of foam for a balanced feel.
- Temperature Regulation: The breathable hybrid design excels in keeping sleepers cool, making it ideal for hot sleepers.
- Edge Support: Reinforced edges provide superior stability and usability across the entire mattress surface.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Simba’s B Corp certification and zero-waste manufacturing reflect its strong commitment to sustainability.
Best For:
- Back and stomach sleepers who need firmer, zoned support.
- Hot sleepers seeking enhanced cooling properties.
- Eco-conscious buyers looking for vegan-friendly materials and zero-waste production.
Comparison Summary
| Feature | Nectar Memory Foam | Simba Hybrid Original |
|---|---|---|
| Firmness | Medium (6/10) | Medium-Firm (6.5/10) |
| Best For | Side Sleepers, Couples | Back/Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers |
| Cooling | Good (Gel Foam) | Excellent (Aerocoil® Springs) |
| Motion Isolation | Exceptional | Great |
| Edge Support | Moderate | Superior |
| Price | Budget-Friendly | Premium |
| Trial & Warranty | 365 Nights + Forever | 200 Nights + 10 Years |
Both the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress and Simba Hybrid Original offer unique benefits tailored to different sleep needs.
Invest in better sleep today—whichever mattress you choose, you can look forward to a more comfortable and restful night. Let me know if you’d like any final adjustments or additional details!
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