If you are wondering which acupressure mat to buy, start with how and where you’ll use it. For relaxing at home, a full-size mat with a pillow is the most versatile choice; for neck and shoulders at a desk, a pillow or cushion; for legs, arms and feet, a strap or roller; and for trips, a travel mat. Bed of Nails makes each of these in classic and ECO versions.
Key takeaways
- The Mat & Pillow Set is the best all-round starting point for most people.
- Choose a pillow or ECO cushion if you mainly want something for your chair, sofa or car (as a passenger).
- The strap and AcuRoller are for arms, legs, feet and anywhere a flat mat can’t reach.
- The travel mat has the filler removed so it rolls up small for holidays and work trips.
- ECO versions use eco-friendly materials; the classic range comes in black, pink and green.
What should you think about before buying an acupressure mat?
Every Bed of Nails product uses the same idea: small plastic acupressure points that press into your skin to create a firm, all-over sensation that many people find relaxing. The differences are in shape, size and where each piece is designed to go. Before you choose, ask yourself four questions:
- Where on your body do you want to feel it? Back, neck, feet, legs or seat.
- Where will you use it? In bed, on the floor, at your desk, in the car or away from home.
- How much time do you have? A full 20-minute lie-down or a few minutes between meetings.
- Do materials matter to you? If so, look at the ECO range.
If you are still deciding whether an acupressure mat is right for you at all, read our honest guide to acupressure mat benefits first.
How does the Bed of Nails range compare?
| Product | Best for | Where to use it | Versions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupressure Mat | Full back sessions of 10 to 20 minutes | Bed, floor | Black, pink, green, ECO |
| Mat & Pillow Set | The complete starter kit | Bed, floor, sofa | Black, pink, green, ECO |
| Acupressure Pillow | Neck, shoulders, lower back | Bed, sofa, office chair, as a passenger | Black, pink, green, ECO |
| ECO Acupressure Cushion | Seat, back and lower body | Office chair, sofa, car | ECO |
| Acupressure Strap | Arms, legs, neck and back | Home, office, on the go | Black, pink, green, ECO |
| AcuRoller | Feet, calves, thighs, arms | Anywhere; easy to adjust pressure | One version |
| Travel Acupressure Mat | Full back sessions away from home | Hotels, holidays, gym bag | Black, ECO |
Who is the full-size acupressure mat for?
The Bed of Nails Acupressure Mat is the classic: a full-length mat you lie on for 10 to 20 minutes. It is the one to choose if you want the full, all-over sensation across your back and you are happy to fold a towel under your neck or already have a pillow you like.
It suits people who want a daily lie-down ritual, often in the evening, and who have a little floor or bed space to use it.
Is the Mat & Pillow Set worth it?
For most first-time buyers, yes. The Bed of Nails Mat & Pillow Set pairs the full-size mat with the acupressure pillow, and it works out better value than buying the two separately.
The pillow does two jobs. On the mat, it supports the back of your neck, which makes lying still far more comfortable. On its own, it becomes a quick option for the sofa or office chair on days when a full session isn’t possible. If you plan to use your mat to wind down before bed, see our guide to using an acupressure mat for sleep.
Should you choose a pillow or the ECO cushion?
Both are designed for shorter, more targeted sessions, and both work well at a desk.
- The Acupressure Pillow is shaped for the neck and shoulders. You can lean back against it in an office chair, rest it behind your neck on the sofa, or use it as a passenger in a car or on a plane.
- The ECO Acupressure Cushion is flatter and suits the seat, back and lower body. Place it on or against an office chair, on the sofa or in the car.
For ideas on fitting both into a working day, read acupressure for neck and shoulders at your desk.
When does a strap or roller make more sense?
A flat mat is ideal for your back but awkward for your calves, forearms or the soles of your feet. That’s where the smaller pieces come in.
- The Acupressure Strap wraps around your neck, back, arms or legs, so you can use it sitting down, at your desk or while travelling.
- The Bed of Nails AcuRoller is a handheld roller. Because you control how hard you press, it is the easiest way to adjust the intensity, and it is popular for feet and calves after a long day on your feet.
Our step-by-step guide on how to use an acupressure roller and strap covers techniques for each area. Active people may also like our acupressure routine for after exercise and yoga, which pairs these pieces with the cork Bed of Nails Yoga Mat.
Do you need the travel mat?
The Travel Acupressure Mat has the filler removed, which means it rolls up small enough to pack in a suitcase or gym bag. It gives you the same lie-down ritual in a hotel room or at a holiday rental, so your routine doesn’t stop when you leave home.
Because there is no padding, it can feel a little firmer than the full mat on a hard surface. Use it on a bed or over a towel if you prefer a softer feel. There is also an ECO travel version.
Classic or ECO: which range should you choose?
The classic range is available in black, pink and green. The ECO range, including the ECO Acupressure Mat, uses eco-friendly materials and has a more natural look, and it sits at a higher price point. The acupressure experience is broadly similar; the choice is mostly about materials and style. We compare them in detail in Bed of Nails ECO vs Original.
You can see every product together on our Bed of Nails page, and if you’d like a personal recommendation, our team is happy to help by email via our contact page.
Related reading
- Bed of Nails ECO vs Original: What’s the Difference?
- Acupressure Mat Benefits: What to Honestly Expect
- Desk Tension? Acupressure for Neck, Shoulders and Long Days at Work
- Is an Acupressure Mat Safe? Who Should Avoid It and How to Start Gently
Frequently asked questions
What is the best acupressure mat for beginners?
For most beginners, a mat and pillow set is the easiest place to start. The pillow supports your neck so you can relax properly, and it doubles as a smaller option for the sofa or desk. Begin with five to ten minutes over a thin T-shirt, then build up gradually to 15 or 20 minutes as you get used to it.
Is a bigger acupressure mat better?
Not necessarily. A full-size mat covers your whole back, which many people enjoy for longer sessions, but smaller pieces like a pillow, strap or roller let you focus on specific areas and fit into a busy day. Choose by where you want to feel it and where you’ll realistically use it.
Can I use an acupressure mat on my feet?
Yes. Many people stand on a mat for a minute or two, or sit on a chair and rest their bare feet on it, gradually adding weight. Start seated, as standing puts a lot of pressure through the soles. A handheld roller is another easy way to work over your feet at your own pace.
Which Bed of Nails product makes the best gift?
The mat and pillow set is a popular gift because it is complete and ready to use. For a smaller present, the strap or AcuRoller suit anyone who trains, travels or sits at a desk all day. Choose a colour that suits the recipient’s home, or the ECO range for someone who values natural materials.
