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What Is A Spring Mattress?

Dominic Johnson

April 7, 2024

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A spring mattress, often known as an innerspring mattress, is a bed designed with a steel coil support system. The coils provide the foundational support, giving the mattress its bounce and allowing for air to flow through, thus regulating temperature more effectively than some foam mattresses. These mattresses have been widely used for decades and continue to be popular despite the advent of newer materials like memory foam and latex.

Understanding the Structure of a Spring Mattress

Anatomy of a Spring Mattress

A spring mattress typically comprises several layers, each with its specific function in providing comfort and support. These are the top, comfort, and support layers:

– Top Layer: It is usually a quilted fabric cover that can include foam or fiber. It’s designed to provide a soft touch immediately upon lying down.

– Comfort Layer: This layer is below the top cover and is made from various cushioning materials, such as polyurethane foam, memory foam, gel-infused foam, or latex. Its primary purpose is to offer comfort and contour to the sleeper’s body.

– Support Layer: The core of the spring mattress houses the coils or springs. They are the backbone of the mattress, providing responsive support and helping to distribute body weight evenly. It also allows for air circulation within the mattress, contributing to temperature regulation.

Types of Coils

The coils in a spring mattress come in different shapes and designs, each offering various benefits:

– Bonnell coils: These are hourglass-shaped and are interconnected with wire. They are the oldest and most common type of coils used in innerspring mattresses. Bonnell coils are generally more affordable but can be less durable and provide less motion isolation.

– Offset coils: Similar to Bonnell coils but with flattened top and bottom to form a hinging effect that conforms better to the sleeper’s body. Offset coils tend to be quieter and more durable than Bonnell coils.

– Continuous coils: As the name suggests, they are made from a single piece of wire twisted into individual coils. They offer a high level of support and durability but may lack in motion isolation.

– Pocketed coils: Also known as Marshall coils, these are individually wrapped in fabric pockets, allowing them to work independently. This design significantly reduces motion transfer, making it an ideal choice for people who share a bed with a partner.

The Pros and Cons of a Spring Mattress

Each type of mattress has its advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these can help potential buyers make an informed decision.

Pros

– Better Airflow: The space between the coils allows air to circulate through the mattress, dissipating heat and helping sleepers stay cool.

– Responsiveness: Springs bounce back quickly to movement, making it easier to change positions and get out of bed. They are often preferred by those looking for a firmer sleeping surface.

– Variety: There’s a wide range of firmness levels and prices available, making spring mattresses accessible to a broad audience.

– Edge Support: Many spring mattresses have good edge support, which can make the bed feel larger and more stable.

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Cons

– Motion Transfer: Except for pocketed coils, most spring systems transfer movement from one side of the bed to the other, which can be disruptive for partners.

– Noisier: Springs can squeak or make noise over time, especially when they aren’t individually wrapped.

– Wear and Tear: The coils can degrade over time, leading to a decrease in support and comfort.

– Pressure Relief: In general, spring mattresses do not conform as closely to the body as some foam mattresses do, which might lead to pressure points for some sleepers.

Choosing the Right Spring Mattress

When picking out a spring mattress, personal preference, sleep habits, and physical needs play a crucial role. Here are some things to consider:

Coil Count and Gauge

– Coil Count: This refers to the total number of coils in the mattress. A higher coil count can mean better support and comfort, but too many coils can make little difference and unnecessarily increase the price.

– Coil Gauge: Gauge indicates the thickness of the wire used for the coils. Lower numbers mean a thicker gauge, which is usually firmer and potentially more durable, while higher gauge coils are thinner and give a softer feel.

Firmness and Support

– Your Weight: Heavier individuals may require firmer mattresses with a higher coil count, whereas lighter individuals might prefer softer options.

– Sleep Position: Side sleepers usually need a softer mattress to alleviate pressure on the hips and shoulders, while stomach sleepers might lean towards firmer options to prevent their midsection from sinking in.

Materials and Durability

Quality materials are indicative of a mattress’s durability. Look for a mattress with a solid frame and high-density foams if it includes comfort layers. Pay attention to the type of coils used and the manufacturing process to gauge how long the mattress might last.

Price

Spring mattresses can be very affordable, but prices can range significantly based on brand, materials, and construction. Setting a budget before shopping can help narrow down the choices.

Warranty and Trial Period

Always check the warranty and if there’s an option for a sleep trial to ensure that you’re protected against manufacturing defects and that you have time to decide if the mattress is right for you.

Maintaining Your Spring Mattress

To extend the life of your spring mattress:

– Rotate it regularly: This prevents excessive wear in one spot.
– Use a mattress protector: This safeguards against spills and stains.
– Ensure proper support: A proper bed frame or foundation is crucial to prevent sagging.

Finishing Thoughts

A spring mattress remains a classic staple in the world of sleep products. With advanced technology and design innovations, these mattresses have come a long way from the simple coil systems of the past. Today, they feature a variety of coil types and layers of plush materials to satisfy a diversity of needs and preferences. Whether you’re in search of a mattress with excellent bounce, solid edge support, or superior temperature control, a spring mattress might just be the right choice for you. Equipped with the knowledge of the various types, designs, and considerations when choosing a spring mattress, you can make an informed decision that helps pave the way for many nights of restful sleep.