What is an Innerspring Mattress?

Innerspring Mattress

In today's high-tech world of memory foam and gel mattresses, the classic innerspring mattress doesn't get as much hype.

But don't sleep on innerspring yet - these time-tested beds conform to your body's natural curves and provide the traditional springy feel so many know and love. Read on to learn how these mattress workhorses deliver night after night.

What exactly are innerspring mattresses?

As the name suggests, they contain internal steel open coils or springs to support and bounce. Many coils are tied together with wire and fabric, so when you lie down, the whole grid compresses to cushion your body.

Contrast this to a pocket spring mattress, where each spring is wrapped in fabric, providing isolated motion. The connected coils flex under areas like your hips and shoulders while remaining sturdy under your spine - the hallmark of a supportive mattress. Add a quilted foam or fibre top layer, and you have the winning combination of comfort and support.

The most significant advantage of innerspring mattresses is their affordable price point, usually ranging from £100 to £400 for a double or king. They also promote spinal alignment and alleviate pressure points well when new.

However, frequent body impressions can cause sagging issues in innerspring mattresses, cropping up after a few years of heavy use. Since all the coils are linked, motion transfer can also concern couples, although this only affects cheaper brands.

What do innerspring mattresses feel like?

Innersprings gently match the curves of your body, compressing just enough to relieve pressure points and keep your spine in a natural position. The open design with space between the coils allows air to flow freely, keeping you cool in summer.

You also get that nostalgic springy bounce we know so well, making it easy to switch positions at night with a little lift and bounce from the springs.

Different comfort layer materials (the top surface you squash into) also change how an innerspring mattress feels. Memory foam hugs your body, while latex or reflex foam adds a nice springy bounce when you switch positions. For that sink-into-the-clouds vibe, look for a plush pillowtop filled with fuzzy fibres.

Innerspring mattress pros and cons

So, what do we like about innerspring mattresses, and what could be better? Let's start with the good stuff. Coils support whether you sleep on your side, back, stomach or mix it up.

The open design keeps air flowing so you don't get all hot and bothered. Unlike fancy-schmancy mattresses, springs are a steal - you can get one for as low as £100. And who doesn't love that springy bounce when you switch spots?

Now, the not-so-great parts. Coil springs wear out faster than pocket springs, so these mattresses usually need replacing after 5-7 years. You'll probably feel your partner flopping around in bed, too, more so than with a pocket spring mattress. And some find coils less cuddly and contoured than hybrid or pocket spring technologies.

Who should get an innerspring mattress?

If you're looking for quality on a budget, innersprings are tough to beat. You usually find a double for £100 to £400 - way less than other fancy-pants mattresses. That makes them perfect for saving pennies on a guest room or kid's bed.

With different firmness levels, you can dial in the proper support, too. Plush softness for side sleepers. A balanced medium for couples. Or firm springs for back pain.

The mattress can match your sleep style if you pick the right topper. And for folks wanting that old-school bounce in their mattress, coils feel right. Overall, you get great comfort and support without emptying your wallet. It's a pretty nice deal.

Get shopping

Give yourself the gift of an incredible night's sleep without blowing your budget with an innerspring mattress. We've got excellent prices on top brands like Giltedge, Shire Beds, and Silentnight with their famous Miracoil springs.