Why our sleep experts loved it
Camellia’s Traditionally Sprung Mattress is a budget-friendly, basic option that offers a balanced combination of support and value. Featuring an open coil design, it provides a comfortable and supportive sleep experience for those seeking a simple, traditional mattress without the high cost associated with premium models. While the mattress is listed as medium, it is slightly firmer than other mattresses in this category in real-world conditions. This characteristic is important to consider when selecting a mattress, depending on your preferred sleeping position.
Design & First Impressions
Weighing in at 26cm deep, the Camellia feels thicker than many entry-level models. The casing is finished with a soft knitted cover that is smooth to the touch and seems quite breathable. As a result, the overall impression of the mattress is clean and refined, standing out from many competitors at this price point. The edges are also reinforced which gives it a more robust feel, and ensures that the mattress does not flatten when you sit on or near the side of the mattress. The overall build quality of the Camellia is more reliable and workmanlike, giving the impression of a product that could last you a few years with regular rotation.
Once on the bed, it feels evenly supportive. It’s fairly firm to the touch but does have a little cushioning from the fibre layers which makes the first impression of firmness a little less stiff. It’s a proper spring mattress in every way – there’s bounce, structure, and that sturdy solid base you don’t tend to get with foam-based alternatives.
Construction & Materials
The interior of the Camellia consists of an open coil spring unit made from interconnected steel coils. These springs work to distribute your body weight across the mattress surface, minimising the sensation of pressure on any one spot. This type of support has been used for decades and remains popular, but it doesn’t isolate motion quite as well as modern pocket spring systems.
Above the spring unit, there is a layer of soft white polyester fibres that add a cushioning feel and promote airflow within the mattress. Although the materials are basic, they’re durable and resilient, which will help the mattress hold its shape for longer. The reinforced edges are a welcome addition, particularly at this price, as it widens the usable sleeping surface and prevents the sides from sagging as quickly. The soft knitted cover ties the design together, providing a breathable finish that’s comfortable against the skin.
Firmness & Feel
While the mattress is advertised as a medium, in real life most people will find the Camellia on the firmer side. The open coil design gives it a supportive, structured feel, making it more suitable for back and stomach sleepers. Side sleepers may find the firmness leads to some discomfort around the hips and shoulders, particularly after a long night.
It’s bouncy in the traditional sense of the word. You can feel the movement but it’s not excessive and won’t be disruptive to your partner. It’s a traditional mattress and therefore won’t absorb motion as a pocket spring or foam mattress might. It does keep your spine aligned and the firm feel helps negate that feeling of ‘sinking’ into a mattress that you can sometimes get with softer models.
Temperature Regulation
The open coil design naturally facilitates airflow better than denser foam alternatives. Paired with the breathable polyester fillings and the ventilated sides, the mattress remains cool and comfortable throughout the night. The knitted cover also draws moisture away, keeping the surface feeling fresh. For warm sleepers or those who tend to overheat, this breathability is a clear benefit.
Performance & Durability
For a low-cost mattress, the Camellia performs surprisingly well. It’s supportive, stable and retains its shape better than most similarly priced models. However, the open coil design does mean there is the inevitable trade-off of spring noises over time, particularly once the mattress has had time to settle. Regular rotation – and flipping, as this is a double-sided model – will help distribute wear and extend its lifespan.
The reinforced edges are a real bonus, adding structure and ensuring the mattress doesn’t lose form prematurely. Having said that, those looking for a softer, more contouring surface may find the Camellia a little too firm for comfort, and could benefit from a topper.
Everyday Use
In everyday use, the Camellia feels practical and reliable. It’s a no-frills mattress that offers consistent support, making it a good choice for guest rooms, rental properties or those simply looking for an affordable every day option. It’s also vegan-friendly and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for a wide range of preferences and health needs. Handles on the sides of the mattress make it easier to turn around, a small but appreciated feature for maintenance.
One area for improvement would be the spring tension. A small number of customers have reported that the mattress feels firmer than expected, leading to some discomfort for lighter or side sleepers. There have also been some reports of spring noise, though this does seem to diminish after the first few weeks as the materials settle in.
Who It Suits
Camellia Traditionally Sprung Mattress is best suited to back and stomach sleepers who desire a reliable, medium-firm support that won’t break the bank. It’s also a solid choice for occasional use in guest bedrooms, or as a first mattress for those furnishing a new home. The breathable design and reinforced edges make it a sensible, durable option in its price range.
Who It Doesn’t Suit
Those who prefer a softer, more adaptive comfort will find the Camellia too firm. Side sleepers in particular may experience some hip or shoulder pressure and could benefit from a topper to add extra cushioning. Light sleepers who are sensitive to sound may also notice some spring noise over time, although this is not unusual for open coil designs.
Verdict
Camellia Traditionally Sprung Mattress is a no-frills, budget-friendly option that prioritises structure and reliability over luxury. It offers good support, decent comfort and build quality that exceeds expectations for the price. While it’s firmer than advertised and doesn’t quite have the refinement of higher-end pocket spring or hybrid models, the performance and durability make it good value for money. Anyone looking for a well-made, traditional mattress at an affordable price will find the Camellia does exactly what it says on the box – a firm, supportive and refreshingly uncomplicated sleep surface.
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