What Is an Innerspring Mattress?

Fri Aug 22 2025

Mattress Guides

Are you looking for a comfortable and supportive mattress that can provide a restful night's sleep? If so, you might have come across the term "innerspring mattress." Innerspring mattresses remain one of the most traditional, widely used options. With their coil-based structure and responsive feel, they continue to appeal to many sleepers, especially those who value breathability, edge support, and a familiar, “bouncy” feel.

Let's take a deep dive into innerspring mattresses, their design, benefits, and whether they're the right option for your sleep needs.

Understanding Innerspring Mattresses

It’s important to understand what an innerspring mattress is and how to distinguish it from other mattresses. An innerspring mattress features a foundational support system made of metal coils, typically steel, encased within upholstery layers such as foam, fiber, or batting. These coils work together to support your weight, relieve pressure points, and encourage airflow for cooler sleep.

Comparing Coil Types of Innerspring Mattresses

There are several distinct coil systems in innerspring mattresses, each offering unique comfort and performance attributes:

Continuous Coils: Made from a single wire looped to form multiple springs, offering sturdy support and affordability.
Bonnell Coils: The most traditional hourglass-shaped coils, durable and cost-effective, but less responsive than newer designs.
Offset Coils: Flattened areas hinge together to contour better to your body shape, offering improved support over Bonnell coils.
Pocket (Marshall) Coils: Individually wrapped springs that work independently, offering superior motion isolation and comfort.

Pros and Cons of Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring mattresses offer all kinds of pros and cons to factor into your decision-making of which innerspring mattress is right for you.

The Pros:

Support & Responsiveness: Innerspring mattresses deliver firm support and an energetic bounce, which is great for back and stomach sleepers.
Excellent Airflow & Temperature Regulation: The open coil structure allows air to circulate, keeping sleepers cooler compared to all-foam models.
Multiple Firmness Options: Coil gauge (thickness), design, and layering allow for a wide range of support from plush to very firm.
Durability & Value: Classic and long-lasting construction makes innerspring mattresses a tried-and-true investment, especially at entry-level price points.

The Cons:

Motion Transfer: Traditional innerspring designs can transmit motion, which is less ideal for light sleepers or couples.
Potential for Noisiness: Cheaper coils may squeak or creak over time, though higher-quality models offer better insulation.
Less Contouring: Innersprings offer less body-hugging comfort than memory foam, though hybrids address this.
Risk of Sag Over Time: Thin coils or poor construction may lead to sagging or reduced support. Rotating the mattress helps extend longevity.

Choosing the Right Innerspring Mattress for You

Starting your search for the right innerspring mattress that best suits you requires certain considerations to refer to when shopping:

Assess Your Sleep Style & Needs

Do you sleep on your back or stomach? You might prefer medium-to-firm coils for spinal alignment. Are you a hot sleeper? You’ll benefit from airflow through the coil system. Tailor your innerspring mattress search to what most addresses your individual needs to ensure optimal performance and experience.

Prioritize Coil Quality & Type

Determine the type of coil you want in your innerspring mattress and what best fits your budget. For example, pocketed coils are pricier but reduce motion transfer and improve comfort. Identifying what you prioritize out of a mattress and your sleeping needs can help determine choosing the right innerspring mattress for you.

Test it Out

Spend at least 10–15 minutes lying on different firmness levels in-store. Your comfort matters most.

Mind the Foundation

Pair innerspring mattresses with proper foundations or box springs to ensure support and warranty compliance. This pairing is essential to experience the most ideal mattress settings and get the most comfortable and refreshing sleep, so make sure you seriously factor in additional bed accessories like mattress toppers, mattress protectors, sheets and linens, pillows, and bed frames.

Explore Innerspring Mattresses at Bedzzz Express

No matter what mattress you consider utilizing to get the best sleep you can, Bedzzz Express has you covered. With locations across Alabama, plus an extensive online selection, finding your perfect mattress has never been easier.

Bedzzz Express offers financing options and warranties so you can shop with confidence. Stop into one of our showrooms and discover the right innerspring mattress for you today.

FAQ: What Is an Innerspring Mattress?

Can I flip my innerspring mattress?

Yes, many innerspring mattresses are designed to be flipped regularly to promote even wear. However, some modern designs may have a specific orientation, so check the manufacturer's guidelines before flipping. If your mattress is double-sided, flipping it can help distribute body impressions and extend its lifespan.

Can I still buy an innerspring mattress if I am a side sleeper?

Absolutely! Many innerspring mattresses are designed with varying firmness levels and innovative technologies to accommodate different sleep positions, including side sleeping. Look for models with enhanced cushioning and contouring layers to ensure a comfortable sleep experience for side sleepers.

How do I maintain and prolong the lifespan of my innerspring mattress?

To extend the longevity of your innerspring mattress, rotate it regularly (every few months) to distribute wear evenly. Consider using a mattress protector to guard against spills and stains. Additionally, avoid placing heavy objects on the mattress and use proper support systems like a sturdy bed frame or foundation.

Are hybrid mattresses the same as innerspring mattresses?

Hybrid mattresses combine innerspring coil systems with other materials, such as memory foam or latex, to offer a balance of support and comfort. While they share some similarities with innerspring mattresses, hybrids often provide additional features like enhanced contouring and pressure relief due to the inclusion of different materials.