What Is an Innerspring Mattress?

The core of an innerspring mattress is its coil support system. These steel coils compress and expand to distribute your weight evenly, maintain spinal alignment, and provide the responsive feel that traditional innerspring mattresses are known for. The number of coils and coil type, such as Bonnell coils, offset coils, or pocketed coils, affects the support, motion isolation, and comfort level of the mattress.

Comfort Layers and Top Layers

Above the coil support system, innerspring mattresses feature foam layers or cushioning made from materials like memory foam, polyfoam, or natural fibers. These comfort layers enhance pressure relief and contouring for pressure points like hips and shoulders. Many innerspring beds also include a pillow top or euro top for additional softness and a luxurious sleep surface.

Coil Count and Coil Gauge

The coil count (number of coils in the mattress) and coil gauge (thickness of the steel coils) play a significant role in the mattress's firmness, durability, and motion transfer. Higher coil counts typically offer better support and contouring, while a lower coil gauge provides a firmer mattress.

Innerspring mattresses come with several advantages, making them a versatile option for all types of sleepers.

1. Superior Airflow and Temperature Regulation

The open coil structure promotes airflow, helping hot sleepers stay cool throughout the night. Unlike memory foam mattresses, which can trap body heat, innerspring beds allow for better breathability, making them ideal for those who sleep hot.

2. Excellent Edge Support

Innerspring mattresses offer strong edge support, thanks to their coil design. This feature prevents sagging at the edges, maximizing the usable sleep surface. Couples and those who sit on the edge of their bed will appreciate this added durability.

3. Responsive and Bouncy Feel

The bouncy nature of steel coils makes it easy to move or change positions during sleep. This responsiveness is ideal for combination sleepers and those who prefer a more traditional innerspring feel.

4. Wide Range of Firmness Levels

From soft to extra firm, innerspring mattresses are available in various firmness levels to match your sleep position and preferences. Back sleepers often prefer medium to firm options, while side sleepers benefit from softer cushioning to alleviate pressure points.

5. Affordability

Innerspring beds are often more budget-friendly compared to hybrid mattresses or memory foam beds. Even premium spring mattresses with advanced features like individually wrapped pocketed coils or luxury euro tops are typically more affordable than other types of mattresses.

Comparing innerspring mattresses to other mattress types can help you decide which is the right mattress for your needs.

Innerspring vs. Memory Foam Mattresses

• Innerspring advantages: Better airflow, stronger edge support, bouncy feel.
• Memory foam advantages: Greater motion isolation, pressure relief, and contouring.

Innerspring vs. Hybrid Mattresses

• Innerspring advantages: Lower cost, traditional feel, and simpler construction.
• Hybrid advantages: Combines coil support with foam layers for enhanced pressure relief and motion isolation.

Innerspring vs. Latex Mattresses

• Innerspring advantages: More affordable and available in a variety of firmness levels.
• Latex advantages: Eco-friendly, durable, and excellent pressure relief.

To find the best mattress for your needs, consider the following factors:

• Sleep Position: Side sleepers need softer comfort layers for pressure points, while back and stomach sleepers benefit from firmer support.
• Coil Count: Higher coil counts generally provide more targeted support and durability.
• Edge Support: Strong edges maximize the usable sleep surface.
• Airflow: For hot sleepers, prioritize breathable materials and open coil designs.
• Warranty and Durability: Look for a mattress with a good warranty and high-quality construction.