Mattress types

All mattresses are divided into two types: spring and springless. Moreover, there is no clear favorite among them - it's like choosing between tea and coffee. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, its fans and opponents, so there is no unequivocal answer to the question “What type of mattress is better”.

Spring mattresses

As the name implies, these models consist of springs that support correct position of body and retain shape of mattress. Spring mattresses, in turn, are divided into several types.

Bonnel - one of the oldest technologies for manufacture of spring blocks, which is mainly used in models of budget category. It implies presence of springs with several coils with successive decrease in the radius of coil support. Simply put, under small load, spring is pliable and compresses easily, and with increasing load it becomes more rigid. All blocks are interconnected, ensuring uniform distribution of body weight. Main disadvantage of mattresses with Bonnel spring block is insufficient orthopedic properties, since when one spring is loaded, neighboring blocks will also be involved. The result is hammock effect. Especially such mattresses are not recommended for double beds for spouses with large difference in weight. This will lead to the fact that springs will adapt to person with large weight, not ensuring correct position of second spouse.

Come-for Relax Zen mattress with Bonnel springs.
Bonnel spring mattresses

Good alternative to Bonnel technology are mattresses with independent spring blocks. In this case, each spring is hidden in separate case made of dense material and works autonomously, that is, when it is pressed, adjacent springs remain in their original position. Density of springs is often from 220 to 320 pieces per square meter, although there are models with an increased number of blocks: for example, Multipocket contains about 500 springs per square meter, and Micropocket - more than 1000. Mattresses with independent blocks have good orthopedic properties, adapt to features of body structure, provide proper back support and eliminate occurrence of creaking springs. Thus, this is the most correct basis for spring mattresses.

Mattress Matroluxe Four Red Marsalla with independent spring blocks.

There are also combined models that combine both independent spring blocks, and Bonnel, and mattresses with double spring technology. Manufacturers call the latter differently: Dual Spring, Twin Pocket, Dual Pocket, etc. Its principle of operation is as follows: an external spring holds weight of up to 90 - 100 kg, and with an increase in this load, an internal spring comes into action, which prevents punching. Mattresses with double springs are well suited for people with large weight and spouses of different weight categories (with difference of more than 30 - 40 kg).

Advantages of spring mattresses include less susceptibility to deformation due to the presence of metal structures inside and easier wet cleaning, because internal cavities contribute to quick drying. Among their disadvantages are sensitivity to high pressure (in other words, you should not jump on mattress), possible corrosion of metal parts over time, and the risk of dust and dust mites accumulating inside.

Springless mattresses

Springless mattresses do not contain spring blocks and consist of one thick or several layers of fillers. It is on them that you should be guided when choosing mattress. Fillers can be coconut fiber, artificial or natural latex, polyurethane foam, memory foam, etc. Right combination of different materials allows you to achieve optimal level of rigidity. Springless models are characterized by high orthopedic properties, they are more durable, do not have problems with springs sticking out and do not bother the owner with sounds due to the lack of metal parts inside. But usually such models have higher price (compared to spring ones) due to the use of expensive fillers.

Magniflex springless mattress.

Toppers (futons) are low (up to 10 cm) springless mattresses, which are mostly not used independently, but only serve as an addition to an already equipped bed. Usually toppers are laid on sofa to level the surface and change the degree of rigidity. For example, the EMM Scandi Norway mini mattress is only 5 cm high, while the Eurosleep Cocos-Mix is two-sided model with medium and high rigidity, 7 cm high and up to 200 kg load.

Thin mattresses (futons, toppers)

Mattress fillers

Both spring and springless mattresses often consist of several layers of different fillers, which directly affect the height, rigidity, environmental friendliness and reliability. Only in spring models these are small layers that serve as an addition to the spring blocks, and in springless models they are the basis of the mattress. Manufacturers can use natural or artificial materials, which have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Natural fillers use fibers of natural origin. It can be latex, coconut coir, wool and cotton.

Latex is characterized by good elasticity, follows the contours of the body and quickly returns to its original form after the load. It evenly distributes pressure, promotes proper blood circulation and relaxation.

Coconut coir is fairly rigid material, giving the mattress good orthopedic properties. This filler does not deform during long-term operation, is durable, does not absorb odors, passes air well and does not cause allergies.

Spring mattress Matroluxe Cappuccino Soft Plus with layer of natural coconut coir.

Wool and cotton are usually used for stitching the top layers, which are designed for different seasons of the year. So, cotton serves well in summer, in hot weather - it lets air through and maintains an optimal microclimate. Wool, in turn, has warming properties and is used to warm one of the sides, so it is relevant in winter.

Natural fillers boast wear resistance and durability, they do not harm health and the environment, are hypoallergenic, provide better moisture and air exchange. But such materials are more expensive, which affects the overall cost of the mattress.

Artificial (synthetic) fillers are often cheaper, but this does not mean that they are of poor quality. These materials include:

Polyurethane foam is porous material, high-density foam rubber, which gives the mattress elasticity, elasticity and provides body support. It belongs to budget fillers, but is short-lived, especially when it comes to low-density polyurethane foam varieties.

Spunbond is lightweight non-woven material with high density and strength. It usually acts as an intermediate layer in spring mattresses, protecting more delicate fillings from the impact of the spring block.

Memory Foam is foam material that has a memory effect. It completely repeats all the contours of person, adapts to body characteristics, evenly distributes the load and provides comfortable sleep.

Memory Mattresses

Mattress rigidity

Important characteristic of any mattress is its rigidity. There is an opinion that the harder the mattress, the better its orthopedic properties. But in fact, this is just myth. Rigidity is primarily matter of habit and personal preference, but there are still guidelines (and sometimes mandatory rules) for choosing degree mattress rigidity, which are based on the age, weight and health of the owner.

Weight. For people with small body weight, soft mattresses(spring or springless) without layer of coconut coir, preferably made of latex or polyurethane foam, are suitable. For healthy person of average build and height, it is advised to choose medium hard mattresses, and for people weighing from 90 - 100 kg - more rigid models. But this does not mean that you need to choose increased rigidity and sleep with the feeling that you are on the floor - first of all, choose your comfort.

This infographic shows optimal rigidity level for your height and weight:


Age. In this category, needs come first, not comfort (although it is also important), since the spine is formed on average up to 20-25 years. For toddlers and children under 15 - 16 years old, it is better to choose hard mattresses - springless mattresses based on coconut coir are ideal for them. After, from about 16 to 25 years old, when the body is still growing, it is better to switch to medium hardness or above average. Soft mattresses during the formation of the spine can lead to health problems. But people over 50 are better off sleeping on soft mattresses - they evenly support all parts of the spine, and also contribute to the proper functioning of the circulatory and respiratory systems.

Health status. For pain in the upper part of the spine, osteochondrosis and scoliosis, doctors advise using hard mattresses. At the same time, they are contraindicated in case of pain in the lower back, hernia of the spine or intervertebral hernia. In this case, give preference to soft mattress with good deflection. In any case, in case of diseases, injuries and recent surgeries, we strongly recommend that you consult doctor.

Sleep position. Also, when choosing mattress rigidity, it is necessary to take into account the position in which you sleep. So, if you fall asleep on your back, choose the "golden mean" - not too hard and not too soft mattress. The buttocks should sink into the surface, and the lumbar needs support. For those who sleep on their side, it is better to pay attention to models with memory effect that adapt to the contours of the body. If you sleep on your stomach, give up models that are too soft, which can lead to increased stress and curvature of the spine, in favor of more rigid ones.

The most comfortable, but not cheap are multizone mattresses, which are divided into several zones with different hardness. Each zone is optimized for specific part of the body and provides more correct position. In addition, there are models with sides of different stiffness, which are especially relevant for people with health problems. For example, you can use the softer side as the main one, and if you experience back pain, change it to harder one by turning the mattress over.

Multizone Mattresses

What else to pay attention to

Mattress size. In dream, you should be comfortable and spacious, so it is better to choose mattress size "with margin". This means that the length should be 20 centimeters more than the height, and the width should allow free movement during the night without the risk of falling out of bed. The minimum width for single bed is 80 cm, for double bed - 160 cm. But first of all, it is necessary to build on body build. In addition, be sure to choose mattress according to the size of the bed frame. If it is larger, this can lead to deformation of the edges, if it is smaller, such design simply looks ugly.

Mattress thickness. For an adult, mattress with thickness of at least 18 - 20 cm is optimal. Anything less is either toppers, or mostly not very high-quality models with thin filler that will not be able to properly take care of the back and will soon lose their original shape. Thinner mattresses are usually designed for children: the greater the age and weight of the child, the thicker the mattress should be. The height depends on the amount of internal filler. Most modern models consist of several layers, each of which fulfills its role and complements the others: for example, one layer acts as base, the second plays the role of separator, and the third is responsible for softness.

Maximum load. In the characteristics, manufacturers indicate the maximum weight that the mattress can withstand. To extend the service life, it is better not to go beyond these limits, or even better, choose the load “with margin”. For example, models such as DORMISAN Pullman and Magniflex Comfort Dual 10 can withstand weights up to 180 and even 200 kg.

Winter/summer effect. This is variety of versatile mattresses, which creates optimal conditions both in hot weather and in the winter season. One side is made of materials that retain heat (for example, wool), the other is made of lighter, breathable materials. This is achieved not due to the filler, but with the help of the cover material. If the mattress has removable cover, it can be easily replaced, thereby providing comfortable conditions in winter and summer.

Rigid frame. The fact that the mattress has its own frame increases its strength, prolongs its service life and even makes it possible to use it without bed. But note that the frame makes the mattress more rigid.

Sharm Persey mattress with hard frame.

To sum up, mattress is definitely not the thing to save on. High-quality materials and filling, correct thickness and size, optimal rigidity - all this has beneficial effect on state of health and general well-being. Therefore, approach the choice responsibly, read recommendations, consult doctor if necessary. Better yet, thoroughly test product before buying: lie on it in the store, while not in hurry and listen to reactions of your body. After all, no descriptions and reviews will replace your own feelings.