Editor's Top Pick
Mattress Springs: A Brief History of Springs in Mattresses
- 08/20/2024
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
When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, the mattress you choose plays a crucial role. While there are various components that go into making a mattress comfortable and supportive, one of the most important elements is the spring system. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the history of springs in mattresses, exploring how they’ve evolved over time and why they’re so important in creating the perfect sleeping surface.
Springs in mattresses refer to a series of coils or wires that are strategically placed within the mattress to provide support and bounce. These springs can come in various shapes and sizes, but the basic function is the same: to create a surface that conforms to your body while also providing the necessary support to keep your spine in proper alignment.
The role of springs in mattresses cannot be overstated. Without them, a mattress would be little more than a soft, flat surface that would not provide the necessary support for a good night’s sleep. The springs in a mattress work together to distribute weight evenly, prevent sagging, and offer the necessary bounce to make it easier to move around and get comfortable. As such, the type and quality of the springs in a mattress can have a significant impact on how well you sleep.
History of Mattress Springs
Springs in mattresses have a long and varied history, with the earliest forms of mattresses being filled with hay or other natural fibers. While these early mattresses were certainly more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, they provided little in the way of support and tended to sag over time.
It wasn’t until the mid-1800s that the first metal spring mattress was patented in the United States by James Marshall. This new design featured a series of interconnected springs that provided a much more supportive sleeping surface than the previous hay-filled mattresses. As the popularity of metal spring mattresses grew, so too did the need for advancements in spring technology.
In the early 1900s, the Bonnell coil was introduced. These hourglass-shaped springs were interconnected, providing a stable base for the mattress while still allowing for some flexibility and bounce. This design was popular for many years, but it had its limitations, as the interconnected springs tended to create motion transfer between sleeping partners.
In the 1920s, the Marshall coil was introduced. These coils were individually wrapped in fabric, allowing them to move independently of one another and contour more effectively to the shape of the body. This design became known as the “pocket coil” and is still used in many modern mattresses today. Other advancements in spring technology include the introduction of offset coils, which are designed to minimize motion transfer, and continuous coil systems, which use a single wire to create a series of interconnecting springs.
The use of springs in mattresses provides several benefits beyond comfort and support. Springs help to increase the durability of the mattress, preventing sagging and ensuring that the mattress retains its shape over time. They also allow for better breathability, which can help regulate body temperature and prevent overheating while you sleep.
Today, mattress manufacturers continue to innovate with new types of spring systems and hybrid mattresses that combine springs with other materials like foam or latex. Some companies are even developing “smart” mattresses that use sensors and other technology to monitor sleep patterns and adjust the mattress settings for optimal comfort.
In conclusion, the history of springs in mattresses is a fascinating one, with constant innovation and improvement over the years. From hay-filled mattresses to the latest pocket coil technology, springs continue to play a crucial role in creating the perfect sleeping surface.
As mattress technology advanced, manufacturers experimented with different spring designs to improve comfort and support. The Bonnell coil, also known as the hourglass coil, was introduced in the early 1900s. The Bonnell coil provides a stable base for the mattress and offers some flexibility and bounce. The hourglass shape of the coils distributes weight evenly across the mattress, preventing sagging and ensuring that the mattress retains its shape over time.
In the 1920s, the pocket coil was introduced. These coils are individually wrapped in fabric, allowing them to move independently of one another and contour more effectively to the shape of the body. This design provides better support and conformability than the Bonnell coil and has become increasingly popular in recent years. Pocket coil systems offer several advantages over traditional Bonnell coils, including better motion isolation and targeted support.
Continuous coil systems use a single wire to create a series of interconnecting springs. This design provides a stable base for the mattress and offers good support and durability. Continuous coil systems are typically less expensive than pocket coil systems, but they may not provide the same level of conformability and motion isolation.
When shopping for a new mattress, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and sleeping style to determine which type of spring system is right for you. Modern mattress springs offer a range of options, each with its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks. Whether you prefer the support of a Bonnell coil, the conformability of a pocket coil, or the durability of a continuous coil system, there is a mattress spring design that will meet your needs.
Advantages of Mattress Springs
Mattress springs offer several advantages that make them an important component of a good night’s sleep.
Firstly, mattress springs provide the necessary support and comfort needed for a restful sleep. The springs work together to distribute weight evenly across the sleeping surface, keeping the spine in proper alignment and reducing the risk of back and neck pain. Additionally, the springs contour to the body’s shape, providing a comfortable sleeping surface that makes it easier to get and stay asleep.
Another advantage of mattress springs is their durability. Mattress springs are designed to withstand the weight and movement of the body, making them a long-lasting component of a mattress. By providing support over the long term, they help prevent sagging and ensure that the mattress retains its shape, providing a comfortable and supportive sleeping surface for years to come.
Finally, mattress springs promote breathability, which is especially important for people who tend to sleep hot. The design of mattress springs allows air to circulate through the mattress, which helps to regulate body temperature and prevent overheating during the night. This breathability can improve the overall quality of sleep, leading to a more restful and refreshing night’s sleep.
In conclusion, the advantages of mattress springs are numerous and important. They provide the necessary support and comfort for a good night’s sleep, are durable and long-lasting, and promote breathability for better temperature regulation. When shopping for a new mattress, it’s essential to consider the type and quality of springs used in the design to ensure that you get the best possible sleeping surface for your needs.
Mattress Spring Innovations
Innovation in mattress technology has led to the development of new and exciting uses for mattress springs. Hybrid mattresses, for example, combine traditional spring systems with other materials like foam or latex. This combination provides a supportive base with added pressure relief and contouring, offering a more comfortable and restful night’s sleep.
Smart mattresses represent another exciting innovation in the world of mattress technology. These mattresses incorporate sensors and other technology to monitor sleep patterns, adjust mattress settings, and provide personalized recommendations for improving sleep quality. By tracking factors like sleep duration, heart rate, and body temperature, smart mattresses can provide the most comfortable and supportive sleeping surface possible. Some smart mattresses even offer automatic adjustments for snoring, individualized temperature control, and massage settings.
Looking forward, the future of mattress springs is likely to involve continued innovation and advancements in technology. With a greater focus on sustainability and eco-friendliness, manufacturers may explore new materials and designs that are more environmentally friendly while still providing the necessary support and comfort.
As sleep science continues to advance, manufacturers may also find new ways to incorporate technology into spring systems. The use of sensors to monitor the pressure exerted on each spring, for example, could lead to even more customizable and supportive sleeping surfaces.
Overall, the future of mattress springs is exciting and full of potential for continued innovation and improvement. As new technologies are developed and new materials are explored, the possibilities for improving sleep quality through better spring design are virtually endless.
Final Thoughts on Mattress Springs
Over the centuries, the evolution of mattress springs has led to innovations that have improved sleep quality for countless individuals. From the use of hay in early mattresses to the introduction of metal springs and the development of pocket coil and hybrid mattresses, spring technology has come a long way.
Mattress springs are crucial to achieving a restful and comfortable night’s sleep. They provide the necessary support for the body, distribute weight evenly across the sleeping surface, and offer a comfortable surface to sleep on. Additionally, the breathability of spring systems can help regulate body temperature, further improving sleep quality.
As mattress technology continues to advance, the future of mattress springs looks promising. New designs, such as hybrid and smart mattresses, are already changing the way we think about sleep. With continued research and development, it’s likely that we will see even more innovations in spring technology in the years to come.
In conclusion, mattress springs play a critical role in achieving a restful and rejuvenating night’s sleep. From the early days of hay-filled mattresses to the cutting-edge designs of today, spring technology has continued to evolve and improve. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in the future, all aimed at providing a better night’s sleep for everyone.
| Mattress Spring System | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonnell Coil | Traditional hourglass-shaped coils linked together with wires. Most affordable option. | Durable, supportive, classic bouncy feel. | Can be noisy, not as conforming as other systems, may not provide enough support for heavier individuals. |
| Continuous Coil | Serpentine rows of connected coils. More conforming than Bonnell coils, but still relatively affordable. | More comfortable than Bonnell coils, provides better pressure relief. | Not as supportive as pocket coils, can still be noisy. |
| Pocket Coil | Individual coils encased in fabric pockets. Most conforming and supportive option, good for motion isolation. | Excellent pressure relief, minimizes motion transfer, conforms to body curves, luxurious feel. | Most expensive option, may not be as breathable as other systems. |
| Open Coil | Similar to Bonnell coils, but with fewer coils and no border support. Least expensive option. | Most affordable, lightweight, basic support. | Not very conforming or supportive, can sag over time, not ideal for heavier individuals. |
Mattresses with the Most Coils
While coil count isn’t the sole factor in determining mattress quality, some brands do boast impressive numbers. Here’s a table showcasing a few contenders:
| Brand/Model | Coil Count (Queen Size) | Coil Type | Key Features | Image |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saatva Zenhaven | 888 Individually Wrapped MicroCoils & 166 High-Density Steel Coils | Hybrid (MicroCoils + Innerspring) | Dual firmness control, zoned support, temperature regulation | |
| Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid | 888 Individually Wrapped Pocketed Coils & 148 Edge Support Coils | Hybrid (Pocketed Coils + Innerspring) | Pressure relief, zoned support, cooling technology | |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | 1,000 Individually Wrapped Coils & 7 Zoned Layers | Hybrid (Pocketed Coils + Foam) | Personalized comfort, pressure relief, cooling technology | |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Hybrid | 1,024 Individually Wrapped Coils & 5 Comfort Layers | Hybrid (Pocketed Coils + Foam) | Targeted support, cooling technology, multiple firmness options | |
| Avocado Green Mattress | 1,414 Individually Wrapped Innerspring Coils & Organic Latex Comfort Layers | Hybrid (Innerspring + Latex) | Certified organic materials, edge support, responsive bounce |
Please note that these are just a few examples, and many other mattresses on the market have high coil counts. It’s important to consider other factors like comfort, support, and budget when choosing a mattress. Additionally, remember that high coil count doesn’t necessarily guarantee a good mattress, as coil quality and type also play a crucial role.
Spring Mattresses We Reviewed
Proudly made in Canada.
Editor's Top Pick
Description:
Best of Both Worlds design that incorporates the pressure relief of foam with the support of springs.
Best Value Hybrid
Description:
Climb into supreme comfort. Featuring a breathable cashmere top quilted with foam, pressure-relieving gel memory foam, and innerspring coils. Made with CertiPUR-US® certified foams.
Description:
Optimized to deliver better sleep, with 51 more minutes of deep sleep per night, on average
Description:
Luxurious sleep, now more accessible than ever. The Logan & Cove Choice hybrid mattress is meticulously handcrafted with multiple layers of premium foam atop our 5-zone steel coil system. 
Proudly made in Canada.
Best for Guest Rooms
Description:
A universally appealing comfort that is bound to please guests. It's also great for sleeping on every night.
Description:
With the Sparrow Signature Hybrid mattress, during or after your sleep trial, you can swap out the inner layer of foam to adjust its firmness without needing to get a new mattress.
Best Flippable Mattress 2023
Description:
The incredibly popular Crystal Cove Flippable Mattress is an innovative, dual-sided hybrid with up to 975 8-inch contouring pocketed coils, specifically designed to promote therapeutic recovery and deep, restorative sleep. Because we don't use wool, it's completely vegan.
Description:
Take care of your body with the first and only mattress specifically designed to meet the needs of plus-size sleepers.
Best Firm Mattress for Heavy People
Description:
Take care of it with the first and only mattress specifically designed to meet the needs of plus-size sleepers.
Best Cooling Mattress 2024
Description:
10" Memory Foam mattress with a conforming feel & a 12" Hybrid mattress with a reactive bounce. Both include a cooling cover that absorbs & dissipates heat – keeping you cool as you lie down.
Description:
Softer top layers of the mattress to give you that soft, lavish plush comfort you love - like sinking into a cloud.
Best for Athletes
Description:
Far Infrared Rays (FIR) Tech
Our high-tech top fabric weave is clinically proven to create waves of energy that produce better blood flow, a more restful sleep, and faster muscle recovery.
Best Hybrid Mattress 2022
Description:
T&N Adaptive® foam meets Micro Diamond memory foam and bouncy springs for the ultimate motion control and pressure relief—all wrapped in an ultra-soft washable top cover.
Description:
Premier support system, advanced cooling technology, and a lofty, quilted top—perfect for those who prefer a lifted feel—create a first-class sleep experience.
Best Soft Mattress
Description:
Nothing beats the Puffy Royal for the true sleeping-on-a-cloud feeling. If you have any pain points, this mattress is sure to address them.
Description:
The Mattress was designed to bring you both sturdy support and contouring comfort, featuring a breathable foam infused with copper and graphite to dissipate body heat and contour your body that pairs perfectly with the Bed Frame.
Best Flippable Mattress 2022
Description:
A mix of memory foam, coil springs, and undeniable swagger.
Description:
Gently soft, yet firm and supportive, our standard Real Bed Hybrid Natural Mattress is designed to meet the needs of the widest range of sleepers. At 11 ½ inches thick, it delivers the responsive firmness and real comfort needed for a great night's sleep. Perfect for back and stomach sleepers.
Description:
All natural, alternative, and recycled materials! GOLS-certified organic latex and GOTS-certified organic wool (CU861640), plus cotton from denim cuttings, natural hemp, and soft REPREVE® made from recycled water bottles.
Description:
Premium responsive foam meets springy pocketed coils. The result: an ultra cool and supportive sleep surface.
Best New Hybrid For The Money
Description:
The Nolah Evolution 15 performs as well as some of the legacy brands that cost twice as much. It's an incredible feel, and value.
Description:
The Owl Natural Latex Hybrid mattress incorporates natural latex, which offers immediate adaptability to your body, ensuring a sensation of support where needed. Combined with organic knit cotton, Joma Wool, and the assistance of top-quality individual pocketed coils, this mattress aims to provide a comfortable and enjoyable sleeping experience!
Our Top Pick!
Description:
The overall best hybrid mattress you can buy. Great for all sleep types and feels amazing!
Description:
Pillar truly has a superior build, substantial feel and quality compared to competitors. Pillar is thicker than most models, has better cooling properties with a more supportive coil unit and stronger edge support.
Best Overall for Stomach Sleepers
Description:
The Mlily Ortho is a hybrid mattress with pocket coils and a layer of ventilated gel foam that has a very firm and supportive base that still offers great pressure relief. It's by far our top pick and if you buy through Yawnder, it comes with a 100 night trial, free shipping and free returns!
Best Firm Eurotop for Stomach Sleepers
Description:
Like firm but soft? It's a hard balance to strike but the firmer version of the Winkbed get's it right. I has a firm coil system with a firmer layer of foam above that for great support and then a layered eurotop that is cushy but won't compromise your alignment. Winkbeds get rave reviews across the board from mattress reviewers and customers. Winkbeds are a top seller in our store.
Best for Back Sleepers
Description:
Great support for your lower back and hips yet soft enough where you don't wake up with a sore back. Perfect for back sleepers.
Best Classic Mattress Feel
Description:
Traditional innerspring feel that you know and love
365 Night Trial
Free white glove delivery and mattress removal
Comes in 11.5 or 14.5 inch depth
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Description:
Get a 5 5-star hotel mattress feel at a 2 star price!
Best Side Sleeper Mattress 2023
Description:
Patented Comfort Channel and Support Pillow system molds to each sleeper’s desired position, greatly reducing pressures that are unavoidable with all other mattresses.
Best Mattress for Athletes
Description:
Molecule's proprietary foam is airy and breathable allowing you to fall asleep fast and stay asleep all night.
Best Mattress for Heavy People 2024
Best Mattress for Athletes
Description:
The Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress is designed to be medium-firm, which is a good level of firmness for most sleepers, and its high-quality materials and 10-year warranty make it a durable and long-lasting investment.
Most Durable for Heavy People
Description:
A medium firmness comfort level provides the right amount of pressure point relief with a substantially solid surface for plus-size sleepers while ensuring optimal contouring for both sleep partners.
Description:
Made with the same gel you’ll find on surgical tables across the world, it’s designed to stretch, bend and conform to every part of your body, relieving pressure as you relax into it.
Chiropractor Recommended
Description:
- Premium AirCradle® memory foam for a body-contouring feel & excellent pressure relief
- Durable pocketed coils for a responsive feel & greater ease of movement
Best Mattress 2024
Description:
Treat yourself to 5 individual foam layers, combining to provide a medium feel while cradling your hips and shoulders in side sleeping positions.
Description:
Luxurious hybrid mattress made with graphite memory foam to relieve pain, absorb motion, and keep you cool all night long.
Description:
- Feel: Medium
- Height: 18.5”
- Support + Comfort Components: Dual Layers of 2.5” GelFlex® Grid Plus, Dual Layer Ultra Comfort Foam, Ventilated Talalay Latex Layer, Active Response Comfort Foam, Edge Support Foam, Edge Support System, 5 Zone Responsive Coil System
- Top Cover: Quilted Comfort Cover with Antimicrobial + Cooling Finish
Description:
- Feel: Soft
- Height: 16.5”
- Support + Comfort Components: 2.5” GelFlex® Grid Plus, Dual Layer Ultra Comfort Foam, Active Response Comfort Foam, Edge Support Foam, Edge Support System, 3 Zone Responsive Coil System
- Top Cover: Quilted Comfort Cover with Antimicrobial + Cooling Finish
Description:
- Feel: Firm, Quilted Top Over Firm Support
- Height: 15.5”
- Support + Comfort Components: 2.5” GelFlex® Grid Plus, Dual Layer Comfort Foam, Edge Support Foam, Edge Support System, 3 Zone Responsive Coil System
- Top Cover: Quilted Comfort Cover with Antimicrobial + Cooling Finish
Description:
- Hybrid construction combines responsive coil + comfort foam.
- Softer: Medium-Soft feel —yielding, body-conforming top with flexible pushback from zoned coils.
- Firmer: Medium-Firm feel — taut, bouncy top with a less body-conforming feel.
- Height: 13”
- Support + Comfort Components: 3” GelFlex® Grid, Edge Support Foam, Edge Support System, Breathable Ultra Comfort Foam, 3 Zone Responsive Coil System
- Top Cover: SoftFlex Cover with Antimicrobial + Moisture-Wicking Finish
Description:
- Hybrid construction combines responsive coil + comfort foam
- Softer: Balanced, Soft feel – just the right amount of support and deep, conforming comfort.
- Firmer: Medium-Firm feel — airy, lightly conforming relief with support that provides slight bounce-back.
- Height: 13”
- Support + Comfort Components: 3” GelFlex® Grid, Edge Support Foam, Edge Support System, Independently Responsive Coil System with Breathable Ultra Comfort Foam Tops
- Top Cover: SoftFlex Cover with Antimicrobial + Moisture-Wicking Finish
Description:
The Estate SE is the next generation in design, innovation and comfort.
• Two part, topper and base mattress sleep system allows the base mattress to be flipped, extending mattress life.
• Latex and gel memory comfort top options are replaceable and offer firm, medium or soft comfort options.
• Unique, reversible base can fine tune firmr/softer comfort even more.
• Powercore®2™ support system automatically adjusts to your shape, position and pressure. Immediate response means continuous comfort so you sleep better.
• Designed for back, front and side sleepers of all sizes.
Description:
The Millbrook Hampshire III is a handmade mattress that features 4,000 individually hand-nested pocket springs. The springs include 1,170 full-size springs and 3,340 smaller comfort springs. The mattress also has a unique zonal edge spring system and environmentally friendly quilted borders made of New Zealand wool and rayon.
The mattress is made with natural fabrics and fillings such as Hampshire wool, silk, and cashgora. It is also chemical-free and has a 5-year guarantee and a 5-year warranty.
Description:
Zoned lumbar support for enhanced contouring, a premium quilted pillow top with the choice of an ultra breathable TENCEL™ Cover or GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover, and are 2” taller than our Core Collection mattresses.
Description:
Choose a better snooze with the Premier Hybrid. It combines our contouring memory foam with ActiveLift HD for more support, plus springs for enhanced breathability and reduced motion transfer. It has a higher profile, plus a plush Euro Top for pressure relief.
Description:
Nectar’s Premier Copper Hybrid mattress combines advanced copper fiber cooling technology in the cover, memory foam, ActiveLift HD, and springs for cooling comfort and support. Rest easy with free shipping & returns, a 365-night trial, and a Forever Warranty.™
Description:
Drift off to dreamland on the most luxe layers. DreamCloud Premier Rest is our thickest, cushiest mattress, with 8 layer construction and a deluxe Pillow Top for the pinnacle of comfort. Made with CertiPUR-US® certified foams.
Description:
Most mattresses aren’t made for side sleepers. That’s one reason you wake up with shoulder, neck, and back pain. The Pillow Cube Mattress Deluxe is specifically designed for the needs of side sleepers. The top third is pillowy soft so your shoulder sinks in and the middle is supportive for your hips so that your spine is perfectly aligned. Now you can finally sleep comfortably and wake up refreshed.
Description:
Foam, hybrid, or cooling, Casper has the right mattress that's just right for you.
Value Soft Mattress Pick
Description:
Best for back or stomach sleepers and couples with different preferences. Even support throughout the layers of the mattress to provide perfect loft. Get an additional 5% off with coupon code Yawnder5 at checkout.
Description:
The Puffy Diamond Hybrid Mattress is a luxury-plush mattress handcrafted in the USA with CertiPUR-US® certified foams, luxuriously soft alpaca wool, and springy latex. Enjoy A 101-night sleep trial. Coil support plus springy latex. Alpaca wool filling. Superior temperature balance. Exceptional airflow. Total motion isolation. Exceptional pressure relief. 5 targeted cushioning zones.
Description:
- Sumptuously cushiony and cool, this billowy quilt top is infused with phase-change fibers that quickly pull heat away from your body.
- An ultra-breathable dual coil system of up to 6,000 coils that contours to your body to relieve pressure and isolate motion disturbances.
- Luxurious details complete the experience: a billowy, quilted top, euro-style gusset, and tailored contrast handles and finishes.
Description:
Featuring select materials that are up to 70% sustainable*, this supportive mattress was designed to ensure sleep is cool, comfortable, and restorative. With foam and hybrid options, there's an iComfortECO ideal for your sleep needs.
Best for Side Sleepers
Description:
NEXT LEVEL COMFORT: Each individual cushion cradles your body to provide the perfect balance between comfort and spine support for pain relief.
Description:
- The combination of pillow top and foam layers delivers cushioning comfort for overall pressure relief.
- Excellent motion isolation due to memory foam top layer and independent pocket coil core design.
- Cooler sleep through gel-infused foam and a pocket coil system for better airflow and temperature regulation, to reduce body heat buildup.
Best Hybrid 2019
Description:
Sleepers who like freedom of movement but still want minimal motion transfer, extra cushioning, and the added support of springs.
Best Fibromyalgia Mattress
Description:
The first luxury mattress specially designed for sleepers with chronic back & joint conditions.
Description:
Individually-wrapped coils with firm foam encasement for enhanced edge support. The triple zoned Euro Top is quilted with plush foam for pressure relief.
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