But First What Do You Need To Look For In A Mattress
All a mattress needs is to be supportive, and comfortable to sleep on.
Comfort is most likely the first thing you feel when laying on a mattress, and refers to how the mattress feels when you lie down on it.
Support refers to how well your mattress is able to promote the bodys correct spinal alignment.
You see, our spine is comprised of three natural curves: the top c-shaped curve of the neck , the reverse c-shaped of the upper back , and the c-shaped curve of the lower back .
A good mattress needs to promote correct spinal alignment which means it provides adequate support to all three curves.
If the mattress is too firm, it will push on those main pressure points and take you out of alignment. If its too soft, those pressure points wont be properly supported, so your whole body flops back. said Arya Nick Shamie, MD, associate professor of orthopedic surgery and neurosurgery at Santa Monica UCLA Medical Center.
Advantages & Disadvantages Of A Foam Mattress
Polyutherene foam can contain chemicals that are unsafe for prolonged human use so it is important to look for polyutherene foam mattresses that have environmental certifications like Koala.
The Koala Mattress has undergone numerous tests to ensure it is safe to sleep on, is comfortable, and supportive to sleep on, and will last. Koalas foam is made with formulations that enhance the breathability of the comfort layer for optimal air flow, and forms around your body without prolonged mattress indentations found in memory foam or latex mattresses.
As it is designed, and built in Sydney, the Koala Mattress foam has undergone, and received Good Environmental Choice Label .
GECA is the Australian authority for assessing, testing and independently auditing products, materials and services for the Australian market. The Koala mattress has been laboratory tested to not contain any heavy metals, formaldehyde, VOCS, or hazardous materials that are potentially allergenic, carcinogenic or disruptive to hormone systems.
For safety, the foam is CETEC certificated to mean the Green Building Council of Australias standards for total volatile organic compound emission rates. The full breakdown of what standards the Koala mattress foam is certified to abide by can be found here.
Amerisleeps Best Spring Mattress
All of our spring mattresses rely on pocketed coils for maximum comfort, and most of the ones we offer are hybrid counterparts of our more popular memory foam mattress models. While all of them are high-quality mattresses, we often point to the AS5 Hybrid as the best choice for sleepers who want a luxuriously plush mattress.
- Lightweight, petite, and plus-sized sleepers
- Shoppers seeking a luxury mattress
Our softest model is the Amerisleep AS5, available as both a memory foam or a hybrid mattress. The Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid establishes a soft yet supportive surface by relying on cushioning, responsive foams paired with bouncy, individually wrapped coils.
There are four layers that make up the AS5 Hybrid, all of which are securely wrapped up in a temperature-regulating, restoration-promoting Refresh mattress cover.
The first layer is our special Bio-Pur® memory foam, engineered to be more breathable and responsive than traditional memory foam. This means that even as the top layer of the AS5 hugs your body throughout the night, it will stay cool and adapt swiftly to any changes in position.
Active Flex foam forms the next layer of the AS5. The buoyancy of Active Flex keeps a sleeper from experiencing uncomfortable sinkage on the soft surface without compromising the beds plush feel.
Save $300 on the Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid with our discount code
Don’t Miss: Do You Need A Boxspring With Casper Mattress
What Is A Spring Mattress
Spring mattresses, also known as innerspring mattresses, were first introduced in 1871 and gained popularity due to their support and bounce. Prior to spring mattresses, beds used to be similar to large pillows stuffed with materials like cotton, hay, wool, or downnot lending sufficient support. Adding a coil layer improves mattress support.
The basic structure of spring mattresses include metal coils or springs for support, which is encased in foam, forming the support layer. This layer is topped with upholstery forming the comfort layer. The layered upholstery ensures that the sleeper doesnt feel the coils and springs directly under their body, which may lead to discomfort.
The upholstered layer includes a quilted top that determines the mattresses plushness and feel. Various types of foam layers, fiber pads, quilts, coils, and springs make up a traditional spring mattress.
While the quilted top, foams, and fiber pads contribute to comfort for sleepers, the coil system lends support and promotes airflow within the mattress, enhancing its breathability. Coil layers of varying densities form the base structure of spring mattresses. Stomach sleepers may benefit from the coil layer because it pushes back preventing their body from arching unnaturally.
The feel of spring mattresses differ from each other depending on factors like spring type, the thickness of the metal used to make it , spring density, and how they are connected.
The Different Types Of Spring Mattresses And Their Defining Characteristics
A spring or innerspring mattress remains the most popular mattress today. This type of mattress construction was invented in the early 1900s and because of its prevalence, you have most likely used one before.
Spring mattresses are comprised of varying amounts of steel coils that compress when you apply pressure or body weight. The shape, size, and number of springs or coils vary from model to model. Generally, the number of springs denotes the quality of comfort overall. The higher the number, the more quality you can expect. Also, a thicker coil gauge denotes a firmer mattress and adversely, a thinner coil gauge denotes a softer mattress.
There are several distinct types of spring mattresses. This allows variety and the ability to accommodate the differing needs of many sleepers. Here are some of the most common types you can expect to encounter:
Read Also: Dreamcloud Mattress Instructions
Do Foam Or Spring Mattresses Last Longer
A quality foam mattress tends to last longer than a spring mattress. An innerspring mattress is more likely to sag as its coils wear out, which can happen in as little as three years if the coils are thin and low-quality. On average an innerspring mattress lasts five to six years, while the average memory foam mattress lasts about 7 years.
Memory Foam Lasts A Bit Longer Than Pocket Springs
The general consensus online was that memory foam should last a bit longer than a pocket spring mattress. Ive not found a conclusive scientific study into this.
In theory, memory foam returns to its normal shape time and time again, whereas pocket spring mattresses start to get a bit stuck in their own grooves. Turning pocket sprung mattresses over regularly helps. Unfortunately, lots of modern mattresses cant actually be turned over. In some cases this is because they have a topper on one side. In other cases it is because the manufacturer has put the high quality materials towards the top of the mattress to save some money.
Honestly, I think you could argue about durability until the cows come home. From what Ive read, it seems likely that a high quality pocket sprung mattress which was turned over regularly would outlast a cheap memory foam mattress. Similarly, a high quality memory foam mattress would outlast a cheap pocket spring mattress.
Its certainly true that there are lots of memory foam mattresses with 10 or 15 year warranties . Most pocket sprung mattresses come with 5-10 year warranties. The Nectar Sleep Memory Foam Mattress goes so far as to offer a forever warranty .
Read Also: Wyoming Mattress Size
Memory Foam Mattresses Are Good For Allergies Bad For Pests
The denseness of memory foam makes it very difficult for unwanted elements to take up residence in your mattress.
Innerspring mattresses tend to accumulate allergens over time, which can pose problems for certain kinds of people.
With memory foam, though, theres nowhere for dust mites or other allergens to gather.
Memory foam mattresses are also treated with antibacterial agents, and they cant get infested with bedbugs.
Cons Of An Innerspring Mattress
Like any other traditional mattresses, innerspring mattress has some disadvantages as well. Although none of the cons makes it a wrong choice, it is merely something you need to be aware of before investing in it.
An innerspring mattress can easily disturb your sleep as it isnt very good with isolating motion therefore, it is not the best choice for people that arent sound sleepers.
It is bouncy and provides incredible cushioning yet, it can cause joint pains because of its plush nature, unlike foam mattresses.
It isnt quite magical for light sleepers as it doesnt distribute the weight as evenly as a high-end mattress should.
It can last up to 10 years with proper care and maintenance, but after that, youll have to replace it because the springs would lose their shape and quality with time.
With all these cons, Id still say an innerspring mattress isnt a bad choice.
Experts suggest changing the mattress after 8-10 years, so the limited durability of spring beds isnt a drawback either.
Yet at the end of the day, it comes down to what you like, or what youre comfortable with.
With all these pros and cons, Im confident purchasing a mattress would become easier for you.
Both kinds of mattresses, Foam and innerspring, bring certain benefits for everyone.
The foam mattress is something that I fancy, but a spring mattress is one thing that falls in my budget.
Thereby, I am going with a foam mattress since I prioritise my comfort over my budget.
Recommended Reading: Purple Mattress Payment Plan
Innerspring Vs Memory Foam: Which Is Right For You
With so many options out there on the mattress market today, it can sometimes be hard to even figure out where to start.
You know you want a good sleep, and you probably have a good idea of what kind of a sleeper you arewhether you sleep hot, whether you tend to shift positions a lot before getting to sleep, whether you have back pain, what kind of a budget youre looking at, etc.
The only problem is finding something that actually meets your needs!
Thats why Mattress Guides is here to help.
In this article, well be taking a look at two of the most common kinds of mattresses today: innerspring and memory foam.
While we cant decide on a mattress for you, hopefully this will at least give you a good head start to figuring out the best investment for you.
The Basics Of Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses are the most popular among consumers: theyre cheap, and have been extensively developed to cater to a wide range of consumer requirements over the years. They consist of metallic springs, either woven out of a single wire into an unbroken structure, or crafted individually and combined together using a lacing.
The firmness of an innerspring mattress is determined by the thickness of its coils . Thinner coils are better able to shape themselves to your body profile, but are also less firm. The firmness can also be modified by the shape, number of turns and height of the coil. Innersprings can generally be divided into Bonnell coils, continuous coils, offset coils, and pocket coils.
Don’t Miss: Can You Use A Box Spring With A Purple Mattress
And For The Little Ones: Foam Or Spring Mattress For Baby
Spring mattresses are not recommended for cribs: a spring that comes out of its place could cause injury. In addition, these same springs are made of metal, a type of material that creates magnetic fields that can disturb a baby’s sleep. That’s why other types of mattresses, primarily foam mattresses, are more appropriate.
However, beware of memory foam mattresses, which can be dangerous for babies. Indeed, they can obstruct the airways of your little one. Memory foam is known for its elasticity and according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, soft mattresses increase the risk of suffocation if baby sleeps on his or her stomach. Indeed, under Baby’s weight, a “pocket” can form at face level, which can prevent your little one from breathing optimally. This is why a baby mattress must absolutely be very firm, which is not possible with a memory foam mattress.
How Is A Spring Mattress Made
This type of mattress is the most familiar in the minds of sleepers and for a good reason: this sort of mattress is very old, having been introduced in the 19th century. Its also, from the early days of industrialization until now, the most common mattress found in North America, including Canada. In terms of structure, all spring mattresses have a base, springs and one or more layers of comfort, which can be made of foam and/or specific fillings. As for the springs, they can be of different coil gauges ranging from 12 to 16, with the rule that the higher the value, the thinner the spring will be. However, the main difference between one spring mattress and another is primarily related to the types of spring. These are detailed below.
Read Also: How Much Is A Wyoming King Bed
What Are Spring Mattresses
Spring mattresses are exactly what they sound like. These mattresses are constructed with a series of spring mattresses that provide support to the sleeper of the mattress. The top layer or the comfort layer of the spring mattress can be made from any type of foam including memory foam which provides an added layer of comfort and support to the lumbar. Spring mattresses are a little less costly than other types of mattresses and they might also be suitable for everyone since the pressure points are very distinctive.
One of the best parts about these mattresses is that they are made highly durable if their top cover and top layer are of good quality. They remain cheap but since spring can come back to its position instantly, they do not compress for a long time.
Spring mattresses are also naturally ventilated. Since there is no high density in them, the air ventilated pretty well. These mattresses are great for warm areas and hot sleepers. An additional advantage is that spring mattresses never come with an odors or chemical smells that are harmful, pungent, and a little annoying too.
Disadvantages Of Spring Mattresses
For all that, spring mattresses are not perfect and have disadvantages:
-
In the case of continuous coil mattresses, if your bed partner moves, youll feel it. Therefore, if you want true sleeping independence, avoid them.
-
Theyre heavy, which makes their installation and maintenance more difficult if you want to air them or wash them outside.
-
If the mattress layers are made of wool or fibers, they can quickly become a breeding ground for allergens such as dust mites.
-
Because of that, if you want to keep your spring mattress clean and avoid allergies, youll need to wash it more frequently.
Also Check: Wyoming Size Bed
Foam Vs Spring Mattress: Prices And Deals
- Spring mattresses tend to be more affordable
- Foam mattresses can be more expensive
- Hybrids are often pricier than both but last longer
Whether youre after a budget innerspring mattress or luxury foam option, theres plenty to choose from, and they are usually at their cheapest among the Black Friday mattress deals and sales. Its worth bearing in mind that if a mattress is very cheap, then it might not last as long, so think about spending a little more in order to get better value for money. You could also use one of the best mattress toppers to help it last longer and feel comfier.
Another good tip is to choose a mattress with a decent warranty . While the average spring mattress lasts about five to seven years, foam tends to last a little longer, and hybrids can last the longest, and so this is reflected in the price.
Heres a quick guide to some of the prices you can expect to pay, with some of our trusted picks among both types:
Affordable Zinus is a very affordable brand, and offers plenty in its range including the Green Tea Memory Foam mattress, which starts from $177 and the Tight Top spring mattress that starts at just $98. They also offer generous warranties and sleep trials. Its also worth shopping around in the sales, as brands such as Nectar Sleep, Leesa, DreamCloud and Puffy each offer excellent discounts as well as free bedding worth hundreds of dollars, making them even better value for money.
Reduced Roll Together And Partner Disturbance
Spring systems work well to eliminate partner roll together and partner disturbance. All Sleepyhead mattresses are designed to reduce roll together and partner disturbance. Sleepyhead Sanctuary mattresses feature a Sensorzone core where each spring is individually encased in foam, isolating partner movement.
Also Check: Best Base For Casper Mattress
Can Soft Mattresses Cause Back Pain
A mattress thats too soft will cause your back or hips to sag and your spine to fall out of alignment, leading to back pain. A firm mattress will put too much pressure on your joints, increasing pain. Medium-firm mattresses conform to your body and enhance lumbar supporttheyre often considered to be the best mattresses for back pain.
Hybrid Mattressesblending Innersprings With Other Mattress Types
Hybrid mattresses sport a layer of coils in the support layer like a traditional spring mattress and the comfort layer may be either memory foam or latex. Hybrid beds combine the benefits of two different kinds of beds.
Hybrids usually have pocketed coils, which are individual coils encased in fabric, isolating motion transfer. They also have firmer edge support making it easier to get in and out of the bed, without causing the mattress to sag.
The top comfort layer is made of either memory foam or latex which molds to your bodys curves, providing pressure-point relief and spinal alignment if you are a back sleeper. While enjoying the cradling comfort of memory foam you can reap the benefits of a firmer bounce and increased airflow due to the pocket coil layer in a hybrid bed.
Recommended Reading: Does Casper Need A Box Spring
