Popular Mattress Types

Inner-spring mattresses

Inner-spring is the traditional and most familiar type of mattresses. They've been around for about 150 years, though they have been constantly improved. The core has a series of metal springs that keep the sleeping surface firm. There's a protective layer of padding on both sides of the metal springs to keep them in place.

Even though all inner-spring mattresses have these basic characteristics, there are important differences between the different inner-spring mattresses available on the market. Inner-springs come in three shapes:

Hourglass-shaped springs

Hourglass-shaped springs are linked to each other through spiral wires. While they compress easily at first, they usually become firmer over time. They are not long-lasting and eventually become too firm.

Continuous coil springs

Continuous coil springs are built from a single length wire. Mattresses with continuous coil springs have thicker coils, therefore providing better support. They keep their shape for a longer period of time.

Pocket springs

Pocket springs do not connect to each other and have individual reactions to weight and pressure. Such mattresses are suitable for couples, because one partner is less affected by the other's movements.

Foam mattresses

Foam mattresses are built to shape to your body in response to its weight and heat, providing good support. The most popular materials used to build this type of mattresses are polyurethane, latex and visco-elastic.

Polyurethane mattresses are less expensive, but also less resistant. Even though they feel comfortable at first, they degrade and compress in time. A latex mattress is a good choice for an allergic or asthmatic person. They're also good for keeping you warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Visco-elastic memory foam mattresses are the most expensive, but also the most resistant type of foam mattresses.

Air mattresses

Air mattresses have air chambers which pump air in and out. They give you the possibility to adjust the level of firmness and body support. Some air mattresses allow you to select different firmness level for each side of the bed. Even though they are very comfortable, lots of people find them too expensive for their needs.

Water mattresses

Water mattresses have been around for 36 years now and still have a good reputation. They are very comfortable and shape to your body. However, you have to be careful the mattress is full enough so that it can ensure enough support. When purchasing a water mattress, look for one that reduces the disturbance amount you might receive when sleeping with a partner.

It is difficult to say which mattress type would make the best choice. Some people still prefer traditional inner-spring mattresses, while others like more sophisticated models. While some people rest better in a firm bed, others enjoy sleeping on soft fluffy mattresses. If you have a partner, you probably have different needs than people who sleep alone. However, before purchasing a mattress, spend at least 15 minutes on it to check if you still feel comfortable. It is also important to choose a mattress that supports every point of your body.