are more springs better in a mattress

Are More Springs Better in a Mattress?

When it comes to buying a new mattress, there are plenty of things to consider. One of the most important factors to evaluate is the type of support system the mattress uses. Mattresses have evolved greatly over the years in terms of design, construction, and materials. Today, there are numerous options available, including foam, latex, hybrid, airbed, and innerspring mattresses. If you’re exploring innerspring mattresses, you might wonder if more springs equals better support. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the topic and answer the question: Are more springs better in a mattress?

What Are Innerspring Mattresses?

Innerspring mattresses have been around for over a century and remain one of the most popular types of mattresses on the market. These mattresses feature a support system composed of metal coils that compress and bounce back when weight is applied. The coils in an innerspring mattress are typically made from different gauges of steel, and the higher the gauge, the softer the mattress will be. On top of the coils, manufacturers layer padding materials such as foam, cotton, wool, or latex to provide comfort and cushioning. Innerspring mattresses are available in various comfort levels, from firm to plush.

How Many Coils Should a Mattress Have?

The number of coils in an innerspring mattress can range from a few hundred to over a thousand. Some high-end mattresses have up to 5000 coils. It’s easy to assume that the more coils a mattress has, the better it must be. However, that’s not entirely accurate. The number of coils in a mattress is not the sole indicator of the quality or performance of the mattress.

Coil count is just one of many factors to consider when purchasing a mattress. A mattress with a higher coil count doesn't necessarily mean it will be more supportive or comfortable. In fact, the type of coil, thickness of wire, and the coil’s shape and design can have an even greater impact on the mattress's performance.

How Do Coils Affect Comfort and Durability?

Coils can affect how a mattress feels, responds to pressure, and lasts over time. How dense the coils are packed and their gauge can determine the firmness or softness level of the mattress. The coils also help to distribute weight evenly across the mattress and provide support. Coils that are too weak or loose can create sagging spots and result in uneven wear and tear.

The shape and design of the coils can impact how well the mattress conforms to your body, how well it relieves pressure points, and how well it isolates motion transfer. Pocketed coils, also called encased coils, are the most common type of coils used in mattresses today. They’re individually wrapped in fabric and operate independently of each other, allowing them to conform to the body and reduce motion transfer. Bonnell coils, which are hourglass-shaped, are a more traditional option that offer more bounce but less contouring.

Overall, the quality of the steel used for the coils and the design of the coils have a bigger effect on durability and performance than the number of coils. Cheap or low-quality steel can lead to premature sagging and springs that wear out quickly.

Conclusion

When shopping for a new mattress, don’t get too caught up in the number of coils advertised. Instead, focus on the overall quality and design of the mattress. Look for a trusted manufacturer that uses high-quality, durable materials and a variety of different coil types to create a mattress that’s comfortable, supportive, and long-lasting. Pay attention to the comfort level, durability, and other features like breathability, motion isolation, and edge support to find a mattress that meets your specific needs and preferences. Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to mattresses so take your time, do your research, and test out different options to find the best one for you.