As many people explore other sleeping options away from the standard spring mattress, they tend to disregard virtually any mattress that has springs in it.
Yet not all springs are created equal. Modern spring mattresses have come a long way, and both innerspring and pocket spring mattresses use these new advanced springs to bring people comfortable sleep. There are some differences between innerspring and pocket spring mattresses, however, and these differences may help make the decision for you.
What are innerspring mattress?
Innerspring mattresses have been around for over a century. At the most basic, traditional innerspring mattresses use a network of interconnected coils as their main support. Innerspring mattresses are durable, relieve pressure, and last for years.
What are individual pocket spring mattress?
Pocket springs are individual springs placed in little pockets of cloth, tucked under the padding of the mattress top. The individual springs allow for some extra movement in the mattress. A larger number of springs usually translates to more comfort.
Differences
Pressure points and comfort
One way pocket spring and innerspring mattresses differ is how they respond to pressure points. Traditional innerspring mattress may be durable, but one thing many people complain about is pain from pressure points. Weight bearing areas like the hips or shoulders may dig into the springs as the person sleeps, causing pain as the skin feels the pressure of the spring.
Pocket spring mattresses respond better to pressure points. Because each spring is wrapped on its own, each spring can move with the shape and pressure it feels. This creates more relief, and spreads out the pressure from these troublesome points to more than one spring. This makes for a more comfortable sleeping experience.
Cost
Another difference between them is cost. There is a reason innerspring mattresses have been the go to for all these years – they are cheaper and more durable than many other mattress types. Yet if you go too cheap, you may notice that the foam that lines these mattresses is cheaper as well. This can make for a very uncomfortable experience and a lot of wasted money.
While pocket spring mattresses do tend to be more expensive than innerspring mattresses, it is important to make sure the added cost goes towards quality materials. Like innerspring mattresses, cheap foam on top of a pocket spring mattress can translate to an uncomfortable sleeping experience very quickly.
Motion transfer
Innerspring mattresses transfer a lot of motion form one side of the bed to the other, as the entire bed shares the same spring system. This may not be the best option for couples or light sleepers.
Pocket spring mattresses may still transfer motion a bit, but much less than a traditional innerspring mattress does. This makes for an easier night’s rest for both partners.
Similarities
Support
Both innerspring mattresses and pocket spring mattresses offer the firm support many sleepers look for. Innerspring mattresses offer a bit more generalized support, while the individual coils found in a pocket spring mattress mean it can shape itself to your body easier. This may be better for people with back problems who need relief.
Durability
Both types of spring mattress are very durable. They do not tend to wear down or bend on their own. With regular turning and care, the coils in these mattresses can last past the ten year mark.
Both innerspring and pocketed coil mattresses are durable, supportive options. The choice between them may come down to cost and the quality of the materials, and the best way to test them out may be to ask for a trial and feel for yourself!
