Mattress Spring Types: Which One is Right for You?

on 13 August 2021 .

It is important to know the mattress spring types, so you can make an informed decision as to which mattress springs will be best for your needs.

Whether you’re looking for a mattress with firm or soft springs, there’s sure to be one that will meet your needs.

Let’s find out.

Springs are laid out like a grid.

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What is a Spring Mattress?

A spring mattress is a type of mattress that has metal coils or springs inside it. It will give you support and comfort.

Springs are laid out like a grid. They are put next to each other on either side of the centre foundation layer. The number of coils determines how much space there is between them, which can make it more or less firm. The more coils there are, the closer together they become. This is what makes your mattress have a softer or firmer feel.

The Types of Spring Mattresses

There are four different types of springs on a spring mattress, each with its own qualities.

Bonnell Coil

These springs are made of steel and provide a lot of support for your back. They are easy to assemble and can be put in any position. The coils come in varying degrees of hardness. You want to make sure to get one that is firm enough for your weight and the type of mattress you want to sleep on.

Offset Coil

These springs are taller than those found in a spiral. They are more comfortable. The taller coils also allow for better airflow and reduced pressure on your joints.

Continuous Coil

A continuous coil mattress commonly is made of many springs that are connected by a metal rod. This type of mattress lasts a long time. It can last up to 15 years. This is longer than the time that a spring coil mattress lasts.

Pocket Spring

A pocket spring mattress is a type of bed that’s good for your back. Your weight is evenly distributed across the bed when you lay on it. The coils push up and down to fit different weights and types of bodies. This type of mattress is not too soft or too hard, making it ideal for both back and stomach sleepers.

The Layers of Spring Mattress

Spring mattresses have several layers. The contents of each layer affect how comfortable the mattress is.

  • Fabric Layer: Mattresses of all shapes and sizes are covered by fabric covers. Each cover comes in various patterns, colors, and materials. Some high-end mattresses have fabric covers that are made of a mixture of polyester and cotton, silk, wool or rayon.
  • Comfort Layer: Also called the upholstery layer, the comfort layer is on top. It has different types of fibers and foams that feel comfortable. Most common materials include gel memory foam, latex, polyurethane foam or visco-elastic. The cheaper mattresses have a comfort layer made of polypropylene, cotton or polyester
  • Support Layer: The spring core is the part of a mattress that provides support for you. The springs are what make it soft or hard. There can be hundreds or even thousands in this layer. It can cost more, depending on the type of mattress and how many springs it has.

Coil Count

This is about the number of coils or springs in a mattress. The more coils, the more expensive it is. You will find mattresses with between 500 and 2000 springs depending on the brand. But not only does coil count matter – the design and gauge also affect how comfortable your mattress will be.

Coil Gauge

A coil gauge is the measurement of how thick a wire is. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire is. Thicker wire make a firmer spring. Higher gauge numbers mean thinner wire, which makes a softer spring. When you choose a mattress, make sure the coil gauge is 12-12.5 for a firmer sleep surface or 14 for something softer.

Which One to Choose?

The right type of spring mattress will depend on what you need, but there are a few things you need to know.

For back and stomach sleepers, a good option is a Bonnell coil mattress. Because the coils provide enough support for your spine and they are easy to assemble.

If you want something that’s comfortable as well as supportive, an offset coil can be a great choice. Why? Because they have taller coils that give you more airflow and reduce pressure on your joints.

When you want something firm that supports your back, then a Continuous Coil Mattress can be your best bet. The downside, however, is that they are heavier to move around.

If you want something that is comfortable and has support, a pocket spring coil mattress might be a good option. It will give you all the support you need without being too hard or soft.

Benefits of Using a Spring Mattress

  • Durable: Spring mattresses are more durable than traditional foam mattresses
  • Good Back Support: The springs provide the perfect amount of support for your back and joints
  • Better Bounce: They have a better bounce back, which means you don’t sink into the mattress
  • Affordable: They’re usually less expensive
  • Better Circulation: The springs help with air circulation so you won’t wake up feeling hot and sweaty in the middle of the night  

Cons of Using a Spring Mattress

  • Heavy: Spring mattresses tend to be heavy. Hence, it's important to consider how well you'll be able to move one before choosing one.

The bottom line

The most important thing you can do when buying a mattress is making sure it’s comfortable for your body type. There isn’t one perfect mattress.

For those who prefer a softer feel, pocketed coils can be a great choice. Because they cradle your body so it feels more like you’re sleeping on top of them than on top of metal coils.

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