Spring mattresses are the oldest type of bed, but they’re still one of the most popular options on the market. They provide the same benefits as foam, including support and comfort, while promoting airflow and providing a more responsive feel than memory foam.
There are a variety of different types of spring mattress models available, from budget to luxury. Most of these mattresses include a coil support core and various layers of foam, fabric, or fiber pads for added comfort.
A spring mattress’s support layer is crafted from steel coils that are either individually wrapped in fabric, glued together, or suspended inside a quilted cover. The innerspring coils are designed to compress independently, allowing them to respond to body movement and pressure points for responsive contouring.
The coils in a spring mattress can be made from a number of materials, ranging from stainless steel to tempered steel, which is twice-tempered for more durability. The thickness of the metal used to make the coils (also known as gauge) and how they are connected contribute to their support and overall feel.
Coil density is another factor that affects the feel of a spring mattress, as softer coils are less responsive and supportive. Additionally, the shape of the coils varies, which can change how they feel.
Some coils have an hourglass shape, while others are rectangular. The springs also vary in thickness, so the overall feel may differ from one model to the next.
There are four main types of springs that make up most spring mattress models: Bonnell coils, offset coils, continuous wire coils, and pocketed coils. The latter is a recent addition to the spring mattress space and has a unique construction that reduces motion transfer.
Aside from the springs, the rest of a spring mattress’s construction is similar to that of foam models. The topmost layer is the insulator, which is usually made from fiber or mesh to keep the core of the mattress in place. It’s then topped with a middle upholstery that can be made of foam or fiber, and a quilted cover.
Historically, these mattresses lacked comfort systems, so today’s modern innerspring models often have a thin layer of foam padding or a pillow-top or Euro-top for cushioning. Some brands even offer mattress toppers for added comfort and temperature control.
The best innerspring mattresses can help you get a good night’s sleep, while relieving back pain and other ailments. If you suffer from back pain, a mattress with the right firmness level and support can make all the difference.
If you’re looking for a spring mattress, consider finding a model with a high coil count, which is recommended by chiropractors. The International Chiropractors Association recommends 375 coils for a queen-sized mattress, so look for models with that many or more.
The best innerspring mattresses are often a little pricier than newer foam models, so it’s important to shop around for the best price. The quality of the coils in a spring mattress is also a factor, as a poor-quality spring mattress will not last nearly as long as a top-quality memory foam mattress.