The Complete Guide to the Best Coil System for a Mattress

08/19/2024

Ben Trapskin

I have carefully studied and evaluated many mattresses, sheets, pillows, duvet inserts, comforters, sleep gadgets, and adjustable beds for over a deca... Full Bio

Best Coil System for a Mattress: Top 5 Expert Picks 2024

Best Coil System for a Mattress can drastically improve your sleep quality. Let’s explore the top options available:

Pocketed Coils: Best for motion isolation and support.
Offset Coils: Excellent balance of support and comfort.
Continuous Wire Coils: Durable and stable, with some noise issues.
Bonnell Coils: Budget-friendly and durable, but not ideal for heavier individuals.

Sleep quality is paramount for overall health and well-being. The type of mattress you sleep on plays a significant role in how well you rest. Among the various mattress options, coil systems have endured for their reliable performance and lasting support.

Coil systems in mattresses are integral for providing the needed support and comfort layer interactions. These coils are designed to distribute your weight evenly, alleviate pressure points, and minimize motion transfer, crucial for a restful night’s sleep.

The benefits of coil mattresses extend beyond just support. They offer superior durability and can significantly improve comfort through different variables like coil count, gauge, and type. Understanding these factors can help you choose the best coil system for your needs, especially if you have specific sleep concerns like back pain or the need for pressure relief. This guide will help you steer the complexities of mattress coil systems.

I’m Ben Trapskin, the creator of Yawnder. After struggling with sleep and facing numerous frustrating mattress shopping experiences, I started on a journey to find the best sleep solutions. My goal is to guide you toward the best coil system for a mattress, ensuring that you make an informed decision for a restful and rejuvenating sleep.

Best Coil System for a Mattress definitions:

What Are Mattress Coils?

Mattress coils are the metal springs inside an innerspring mattress that provide support and structure. These coils flex when you apply pressure and bounce back when the pressure is removed. This flexibility is what gives coil mattresses their characteristic “springy” feel.

History of Mattress Coils

The journey of mattress coils began in the mid-1800s when James Marshall patented the first metal spring mattress. Before this innovation, people slept on hay-filled mattresses, which lacked support and durability. Marshall’s design introduced interconnected springs, laying the foundation for modern innerspring mattresses. Over the years, advancements like the Bonnell coil, offset coil, and pocketed coil have improved the comfort and support of coil mattresses.

Functionality

The primary function of mattress coils is to support your body and distribute your weight evenly. Coils contract and expand in response to your movements, making it easier to move around on the mattress. They also help maintain proper spinal alignment and relieve pressure points, which is crucial for a restful night’s sleep.

Tempered Steel

Most mattress coils are made from tempered steel. Tempering involves heating the steel to improve its toughness and durability. This process ensures that the coils retain their shape and strength for many years, making your mattress more durable.

Durability

One of the standout benefits of coil mattresses is their durability. A well-made coil mattress can last up to 10 years or more. The tempered steel coils resist sagging and wear, maintaining their supportive properties over time. This makes coil mattresses a cost-effective option for long-term use.

Want to learn more about the best coil system for a mattress? Keep reading to find the different types of coils and how they can impact your sleep quality.

Types of Mattress Coils

When shopping for a mattress, understanding the different types of coils can help you choose the best option for your needs. Each type of coil offers unique benefits and drawbacks. Let’s explore the most common types of mattress coils: Bonnell coils, offset coils, continuous wire coils, pocketed coils, and micro coils.

Bonnell Coils

Bonnell coils are the oldest and most basic type of mattress coil. They have an hourglass shape—wider at the top and bottom and narrower in the middle. These coils are interconnected with helical wires, forming a strong network.

Advantages:

Cost-effective: Bonnell coils are generally cheaper to manufacture, making them a budget-friendly option.
Durability: The interconnected design provides robust support and can last for years.

Disadvantages:

Noise: The interconnected coils can produce noise over time.
Motion Transfer: They don’t isolate motion well, meaning movements can be felt across the mattress.

Offset Coils

Offset coils are a step up from Bonnell coils. They have a similar hourglass shape but feature flattened edges on the top and bottom, creating a hinged action. This design allows them to flex more easily and provide better support.

Continuous Wire Coils

Continuous wire coils are made from a single piece of wire, formed into rows of coils that are connected by helical wires. This straightforward design makes them highly durable and stable.

Advantages:

Stability: The single-wire construction provides excellent stability.
Durability: These coils are less likely to sag over time.

Disadvantages:

Noise: Continuous wire coils can be noisy due to their interconnected nature.
Firmness: They tend to be firmer and less conforming, which might not suit everyone.

Pocketed Coils

Pocketed coils, also known as individually wrapped coils or Marshall coils, are encased in fabric sleeves. This allows each coil to move independently, providing targeted support.

Advantages:

Motion Isolation: Each coil moves independently, reducing motion transfer.
Contouring: They conform to the body’s shape, offering excellent pressure relief.
Durability: Pocketed coils are often more durable and less prone to sagging.

Disadvantages:

Cost: The complex construction makes these coils more expensive.

Micro Coils

Micro coils are smaller, thinner coils typically found in the comfort layers of a mattress. They are designed to improve support and responsiveness.

Advantages:

Flexibility: Micro coils add an extra layer of flexibility and responsiveness.
Comfort: They provide a plush feel and can improve the overall comfort of the mattress.
Airflow: Smaller coils allow for better airflow, helping to keep the mattress cool.

Disadvantages:

Higher Gauge: These coils are often made from thinner wire, which may affect durability.
Cost: Adding micro coils can increase the cost of the mattress.

Understanding these coil types can help you make an informed decision when choosing the best coil system for a mattress. Next, we’ll dive into the specifics of each coil type to help you find the perfect fit for your sleep needs.

Continue reading to find the best coil system for a mattress, custom to your specific sleeping position and preferences.

Best Coil System for a Mattress

Choosing the best coil system for a mattress depends on what you value most—whether it’s motion isolation, support, durability, or cost. Let’s break down the pros and cons of the main types of coils: Pocketed coils, Offset coils, Continuous wire coils, and Bonnell coils.

Pocketed Coils: The Premium Choice

Pocketed coils, also known as individually wrapped coils or Marshall coils, are the top choice if you want the best in motion isolation and support.

Advantages:

Motion Isolation: Each coil is encased in its own fabric sleeve, allowing it to move independently. This means you won’t feel your partner’s movements as much.
Contouring: These coils conform to your body’s shape, providing excellent pressure relief.
Durability: They are often more durable and less prone to sagging.

Disadvantages:

Higher Cost: The complex construction makes pocketed coils more expensive than other types.

If you share your bed and need a mattress that minimizes disturbances, pocketed coils are the way to go. They are often found in higher-end and hybrid mattresses.

Offset Coils: Balanced Support

Offset coils offer a good balance of support and motion isolation. They have a similar hourglass shape to Bonnell coils but with flattened edges, creating a hinged action.

Advantages:

Motion Isolation: The hinged design helps isolate motion better than Bonnell coils.
Quieter: Offset coils are generally quieter due to their unique construction.
Better Support: They provide more targeted support, making them ideal for back sleepers.

Disadvantages:

Cost: Offset coils are more expensive to produce, which can drive up the mattress price.

If you’re looking for balanced support and a quieter sleep, offset coils are a solid choice. They are commonly found in mid to high-end mattresses.

Continuous Wire Coils: Stability and Durability

Continuous wire coils are made from a single piece of wire, forming rows of coils connected by helical wires. This design makes them highly durable and stable.

Advantages:

Stability: The single-wire construction offers excellent stability.
Durability: These coils are less likely to sag over time.

Disadvantages:

Noise: Continuous wire coils can be noisy due to their interconnected nature.
Firmness: They tend to be firmer and less conforming, which might not suit everyone.

For those who need a firm mattress with long-lasting stability, continuous wire coils are a good, cost-effective option.

Bonnell Coils: Budget-Friendly Option

Bonnell coils are the original mattress coil type with an hourglass shape, interconnected with helical wires.

Coil Count and Coil Gauge

When shopping for a mattress, two critical factors to consider are coil count and coil gauge. These elements significantly impact the comfort, support, and durability of your mattress.

Ideal Coil Count

The coil count refers to the number of coils inside the mattress. While a higher coil count often suggests better support and durability, know the minimum counts for different mattress sizes.

Full-size mattress: At least 300 coils.
Queen-size mattress: At least 400 coils.
King-size mattress: At least 480 coils.

Why does coil count matter?

Higher coil counts can offer better support and distribute weight more evenly, reducing pressure points. However, beyond a certain point, the benefits of additional coils diminish. For most sleepers, a coil count between 800 and 1,000 is sufficient for a queen-size mattress.

Optimal Coil Gauge

The coil gauge measures the thickness of the wire used to make the coils. This can range from 12 to 17, with lower numbers indicating thicker, more durable coils.

Thicker coils (12-13 gauge): Offer firmer support and are more durable. Ideal for heavier individuals or those who prefer a firmer sleeping surface.
Thinner coils (14-17 gauge): Provide a softer, more flexible feel. These are suitable for lighter individuals or those who prefer a plush mattress.

Balancing Comfort and Support

Choosing the right coil gauge is about finding a balance between firmness and flexibility. For most people, a coil gauge between 13 and 15 offers a good mix of durability and comfort.

Example: The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress uses coils ranging from 13 to 15 gauge, achieving a balance that suits many sleepers.

Understanding coil count and gauge helps you choose a mattress that meets your specific needs for support, comfort, and durability. Next, we’ll explore how to select the right coil system based on your sleep style.

Choosing the Right Coil System for Your Sleep Needs

Selecting the best coil system for a mattress depends on your sleep style. Each sleeping position has unique needs for support, pressure relief, and comfort. Let’s break it down:

Side Sleepers

Side sleepers need a mattress that offers excellent pressure relief and contouring to support the natural curves of the body.

Pocketed coils are the best choice here. They move independently, providing targeted support and minimizing pressure points on the shoulders and hips.
Pressure relief is crucial for side sleepers to avoid waking up with sore shoulders or hips. Pocketed coils excel in this area by adapting to your body’s shape.
Contouring is another benefit of pocketed coils. They help maintain proper spinal alignment by allowing your hips and shoulders to sink in just the right amount.

Example: The Purple Hybrid Premier 4, with its thick comfort layer and pocketed coil system, is a favorite among side sleepers for its plush feel and pressure relief.

Back Sleepers

Back sleepers require a mattress that offers balanced support to keep the spine in its natural curve.

Offset coils are ideal for back sleepers. Their hinged design provides excellent lumbar support, ensuring your hips don’t sink too deeply.
Lumbar support is essential to maintain spinal alignment and reduce lower back pain. Offset coils provide firmer support in the middle of the mattress where it’s needed most.
A medium-firm mattress is typically the best choice for back sleepers, offering a balance between comfort and support.

Example: The Purple Hybrid Premier 3 is a great choice for back sleepers, combining a medium-firm feel with the support of offset coils.

Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleepers need a firm mattress to prevent their hips from sinking too far, which can cause spinal misalignment.

Continuous wire coils are a good option for stomach sleepers, providing firm support and stability.
Firm support is necessary to keep your spine aligned and prevent back pain. Continuous wire coils offer a stable surface that helps maintain proper posture.
Spinal alignment is crucial for stomach sleepers to avoid strain on the neck and lower back.

Example: The Body Fit Savannah mattress offers the firm support stomach sleepers need, thanks to its continuous wire coil system.

Combination Sleepers

Combination sleepers change positions throughout the night and need a mattress that is responsive and versatile.

Pocketed coils are again the top choice for combination sleepers. They provide responsiveness and motion isolation, making it easy to switch positions without disturbing your partner.
Responsiveness is key for combination sleepers, as it allows the mattress to quickly adapt to different sleeping positions.
Motion isolation ensures that movements don’t transfer across the mattress, which is especially beneficial if you share your bed.

Example: The Helix Midnight Luxe is highly recommended for combination sleepers, offering excellent motion isolation and a balance of support and comfort.

Choosing the right coil system based on your sleep style can significantly improve your sleep quality. Next, we will address some frequently asked questions about coil systems to help you make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions about Coil Systems

What are coils in a mattress?

Coils in a mattress are metal springs that make up the support core. They provide structure and help distribute weight evenly. Coils come in different types, such as Bonnell, offset, continuous wire, and pocketed coils. Each type has its own advantages and is designed to meet various sleep needs.

Are coil mattresses good?

Yes, coil mattresses are good, especially if you prefer a bouncy and supportive feel. They offer several benefits:

Durability: Coils are made from tempered steel, which means they can last a long time.
Support: Coils provide firm support and help maintain spinal alignment.
Breathability: The spaces between coils allow for better airflow, keeping you cooler at night.
Motion Isolation: Especially with pocketed coils, these mattresses can reduce motion transfer, making them a good choice if you share your bed.

However, old or worn-out coil mattresses can lose their support and become uncomfortable, so choose a high-quality option.

What is the best coil number in a mattress?

The best coil number in a mattress depends on its size and the type of coils used. Here’s a quick guide:

Twin Mattress: At least 300 coils
Full Mattress: At least 300 coils
Queen Mattress: At least 400 coils
King Mattress: At least 480 coils

A higher coil count doesn’t always mean a better mattress. The quality of the coils, their gauge, and the overall construction of the mattress are also crucial factors. For instance, a mattress with fewer but higher-quality coils can be more comfortable and durable than one with a high coil count but lower-quality materials.

Understanding these basics can help you make a more informed choice when shopping for a mattress. Next, we’ll dive deeper into the specifics of coil count and coil gauge to further guide your decision.

Conclusion

Summary

Choosing the right coil system for your mattress is crucial for achieving optimal comfort and support. We’ve explored various types of coils—Bonnell, offset, continuous wire, pocketed, and micro coils—each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Understanding the differences can help you select the best coil system for a mattress that suits your specific sleep needs.

Choosing the Right Coil System

When it comes to selecting the best coil system, consider the following:

Pocketed Coils: These are ideal for those who need excellent motion isolation and targeted support. They are more expensive but offer superior comfort and durability.
Offset Coils: These provide a good balance of support and motion isolation. They are quieter and more durable than Bonnell coils, making them a versatile option.
Continuous Wire Coils: If you’re looking for stability and durability at a lower cost, continuous wire coils are a solid choice. They offer firm support but may lack in motion isolation.
Bonnell Coils: These are the most budget-friendly option, offering basic support and durability. They are a good entry-level choice but may not provide the advanced features of other coil types.

Yawnder’s Expert Recommendations

At Yawnder, we understand that finding the perfect mattress can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer a curated selection of mattresses featuring high-quality coil systems. Whether you need the advanced support of pocketed coils or the cost-effective durability of Bonnell coils, we have options to suit every preference and budget.

Explore our range of mattresses to find the one that best meets your needs here.

Investing in the right mattress can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall well-being. Don’t settle for less—choose a mattress that supports your unique sleep style and enjoy restful nights for years to come.

With these insights, you’re now better equipped to make an informed decision. Happy mattress shopping!