Types of Mattresses Explained

Choosing the right mattress is crucial for a good night's sleep and overall well-being. With the vast array of options available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. This page discusses the most common types of mattresses, their benefits and drawbacks, and for whom they might be best suited.

Open Coil Mattresses

The open coil mattress is a classic and often the cheapest option. It features a series of interconnected springs that form a single unit. 

How they work:

• Interconnected springs: The springs are linked together, creating a single support system. 
• Border rod: A metal rod around the edge helps the mattress maintain its shape and provides edge support. 
• Layers of fillings: Padding layers like polyester or wool are added on top of the springs for comfort. 

Pros:

• Affordability: Open coil mattresses are generally the most budget-friendly option. 
• Breathability: The interconnected springs allow for good air circulation, making them suitable for people who tend to get hot during sleep. 
• Durability: With proper care, open coil mattresses can last for a reasonable amount of time. 

Cons:

• Limited motion isolation: Due to the interconnected springs, movement on one side of the bed can be felt on the other. 
• Less support: Open coil mattresses may not provide adequate support for people with back problems or those who prefer firmer sleep surfaces.
• Prone to sagging: Over time, the springs can lose their tension and sag, particularly in areas of high pressure. 

Best suited for:

• Guest rooms or occasional use.
• People on a tight budget.
• Individuals who prefer a traditional feel.

Pocket Sprung Mattresses

Pocket sprung mattresses offer a significant upgrade in terms of comfort and support compared to open coil mattresses. 

How they work:

• Individual springs: Each spring is housed in its own fabric pocket, allowing them to move independently.
• Zoned support: Some pocket sprung mattresses have different spring tensions in specific zones to provide tailored support for different parts of the body. 
• Variety of fillings: A range of fillings, such as memory foam, latex, or natural fibres, can be used to create different comfort levels.

Pros:

• Excellent motion isolation: The individual pockets prevent movement from transferring across the bed, making them ideal for couples. 
• Superior support: Pocket springs contour to the body's shape, providing personalised support and pressure relief. 
• Durability: Generally, more durable than open coil mattresses, especially those with higher spring counts.

Cons:

• Higher price: Pocket sprung mattresses are typically more expensive than open coil options. 
• Can be warm: Some pocket sprung mattresses can trap heat, depending on the type of fillings used. 

Best suited for:

• Couples.
• People with back pain or other orthopaedic needs.
• Those who prefer a supportive and comfortable sleep surface.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory foam mattresses have gained immense popularity in recent years due to their unique ability to conform to the body's shape. 

How they work:

• Viscoelastic foam: Memory foam is a type of viscoelastic foam that softens in response to heat and pressure, moulding to the body's contours. 
• Pressure relief: By evenly distributing body weight, memory foam helps to alleviate pressure points and promote better blood circulation. 
• Varying densities and layers: Memory foam mattresses come in different densities and may incorporate multiple layers for added comfort and support. 

Pros:

• Exceptional pressure relief: Ideal for people with joint pain or pressure point sensitivity. 
• Motion isolation: Memory foam absorbs movement effectively, minimising sleep disturbances. 
• Body contouring: Provides a "hugged" sensation that many find comforting.

Cons:

• Heat retention: Traditional memory foam can trap heat, making it uncomfortable for some sleepers. 
• Off-gassing: New memory foam mattresses may emit a temporary odour known as "off-gassing."  
• Initial sinking feeling: Some people may find the sinking sensation of memory foam to be restrictive.

Best suited for:

• Side sleepers.
• People with back pain or joint issues.
• Those who prefer a contouring and pressure-relieving sleep surface.

Orthopaedic Mattresses

Orthopaedic mattresses are specifically designed to provide targeted support for the spine and musculoskeletal system. 

How they work:

• Firm support: Orthopaedic mattresses are typically firmer than other types, offering enhanced support for the back and joints. 
• Spinal alignment: They aim to promote proper spinal alignment, which can help to alleviate back pain and improve posture.
• Variety of constructions: Orthopaedic mattresses can be made with pocket springs, open coils, or even memory foam, but the focus is always on firm support. 

Pros:

• Back support: Provides excellent support for the spine, which can be beneficial for people with back pain or other orthopaedic conditions.
• Promotes good posture: Helps to maintain the natural alignment of the spine, even during sleep.
• Durability: Orthopaedic mattresses are often built to last, with sturdy construction and high-quality materials. 

Cons:

• Can be too firm: The firmness of an orthopaedic mattress may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those who prefer a softer sleep surface.
• Limited motion isolation: Depending on the construction, some orthopaedic mattresses may not offer good motion isolation.

Best suited for:

• People with back pain or other orthopaedic concerns.
• Individuals who prefer a firm and supportive sleep surface.
• Those who want a mattress that promotes good posture.

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses combine the benefits of different mattress types to create a unique sleep experience. 

How they work:

• Combination of materials: Typically features a pocket sprung base with layers of memory foam, latex, or other comfort materials. 
• Customisable comfort: The combination of materials allows for a wide range of comfort levels and support options.
  Targeted support and pressure relief: Offers the support of pocket springs with the pressure-relieving properties of memory foam or latex.

Pros:

• Best of both worlds: Combines the benefits of different mattress types.
• Enhanced comfort and support: Offers a balance of support, pressure relief, and comfort.
• Variety of options: Available in a wide range of firmness levels and material combinations.

Cons:

• Higher price: Hybrid mattresses tend to be more expensive than single-material options.
• Can be complex to choose: The variety of options can make it challenging to find the right hybrid mattress.

Best suited for:

• People who want the benefits of both innerspring and foam mattresses.
• Those seeking a customisable sleep experience.
• Couples with different sleep preferences.

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses are known for their natural resilience, breathability, and durability. 

How they work:

• Natural or synthetic latex: Made from either natural latex derived from rubber trees or synthetic latex.
• Open-cell structure: The open-cell structure of latex promotes airflow, making it a breathable and temperature-regulating option. 
• Responsive support: Latex provides a buoyant and responsive support that contours to the body. 

Pros:

• Natural and eco-friendly: Natural latex is a sustainable and biodegradable material. 
• Breathability and temperature regulation: The open-cell structure allows for excellent air circulation.
• Durability and longevity: Latex mattresses are known for their long lifespan. 
• Hypoallergenic: Naturally resistant to dust mites and mould.

Cons:

• Higher price: Latex mattresses can be quite expensive, especially those made with natural latex. 
• Initial odour: Some latex mattresses may have a distinct odour when new, which usually dissipates over time. 
• Firmness: Latex can be quite firm, which may not be suitable for everyone.

Best suited for:

• People with allergies or sensitivities.
• Those who prefer a natural and eco-friendly option.
• Hot sleepers who want a breathable and temperature-regulating mattress.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mattress

• Sleeping position: Side sleepers generally need a softer mattress for pressure relief, while back and stomach sleepers require firmer support. 
• Body weight: Heavier individuals may need a firmer mattress to prevent excessive sinking. 
• Comfort preferences: Personal preferences for firmness, softness, and overall feel are crucial.
• Budget: Mattress prices can vary significantly, so it's important to set a budget beforehand.
• Health conditions: Certain health conditions, such as back pain or allergies, may require specific mattress types.