Buying a mattress isn’t just about picking something soft or firm. It’s about understanding your body’s needs, sleep habits, and lifestyle. With so many mattress options available, the choice can feel overwhelming. Two of the most popular types are open coil mattresses and pocket sprung mattresses. At Super Beds, we’re often asked: “Which is better?” or “What’s the difference between open coil and pocket spring mattresses?”
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide comparing these two mattress types, highlighting their benefits, drawbacks, and who they’re best suited for. By the end, you’ll know exactly which mattress will give you the perfect night’s sleep.
What is an Open Coil Mattress?
Open coil mattresses, also called Miracoil, continuous coil, or standard coil mattresses, are the traditional and most common type of mattress available. They consist of an interconnected spring system, where all the coils are linked together in a single framework.
This classic design allows open coil mattresses to be mass-produced efficiently and at a lower cost, which makes them one of the most budget-friendly options on the market. For example, a standard double open coil mattress usually contains around 300 interconnected springs, which provide support across the entire surface.
Key Features of Open Coil Mattresses
- Spring Gauge: The ‘gauge’ refers to the thickness of the wire used for the coils. A lower gauge number indicates a thicker wire, resulting in a firmer mattress, while a higher gauge number produces a softer feel. For instance:
- 12-gauge coil → Very firm, ideal for firm support
- 13.5-gauge coil → Slightly softer, while still supportive
- Edge Support: A high-gauge rod along the edges is crucial for open coil mattresses. It helps maintain the mattress shape, reduces side sagging, and extends the usable sleeping surface.
- Lightweight and Flexible: Open coil mattresses are relatively light, making them easier to lift, rotate, or reposition, a practical feature for households where mattresses are turned regularly to prevent wear.
Pros of Open Coil Mattresses
- Excellent Firmness and Support: Many orthopaedic mattresses use open coil systems because they provide a solid support base for the spine.
- Better ‘Give’: Compared to pocket spring mattresses, open coils allow a little more bounce, which some sleepers prefer.
- Lightweight: Easier to turn and manage, which makes cleaning or repositioning hassle-free.
- Affordable: Perfect for budget-conscious buyers who still want durability and support.
Extra Comfort Tip: For those who want extra softness, some open coil mattresses come with an in-built memory foam or pillow-top layer, adding a luxurious feel without compromising support.
Cons of Open Coil Mattresses
- Durability Concerns: Over time, open coil mattresses can sag in the middle, especially if used daily for years.
- Motion Transfer: Because the springs are interconnected, movement on one side of the bed can disturb a partner.
- Shorter Lifespan: Typically, open coil mattresses last 3-5 years, making them better suited for children’s bedrooms, guest rooms, or budget-conscious adults.
What is a Pocket Spring Mattress?
Pocket spring mattresses represent a more modern mattress design. Unlike open coil mattresses, the springs in pocket mattresses are individually wrapped in their own fabric pockets, which allows them to move independently.
The independence of each spring provides better contouring and support, as the mattress can adjust to the shape and weight of different parts of your body.
Key Features of Pocket Spring Mattresses
- Spring Count: Pocket spring mattresses can range from 600 to 5,000 springs. While higher spring counts often indicate better support, quality matters more than quantity. A mattress with fewer, high-quality springs can be more supportive than one with more but lower-quality springs.
- Materials and Fillings: Beyond springs, the quality of the filling and mattress topper plays a significant role in comfort and durability. Options include memory foam, latex, wool, or natural fibres, which can influence firmness, breathability, and allergy-friendliness.
- Customised Support: Because the springs work independently, pressure points are reduced, making pocket spring mattresses ideal for people with back or joint issues. They’re also excellent for couples, as one partner’s movements don’t disturb the other as much.
Pros of Pocket Spring Mattresses
- Superior Support and Comfort: Independent springs adapt to your body’s contours, providing balanced support across your entire frame.
- Minimal Motion Transfer: Partners are less likely to feel each other’s movements at night, making them ideal for couples.
- Longevity: With proper care, pocket spring mattresses can last 7-10 years, making them a long-term investment.
- Customizable Firmness: Many come with multi-zone support, where different areas of the mattress have different levels of firmness for optimal spinal alignment.
Cons of Pocket Spring Mattresses
- Heavier and Harder to Handle: Due to denser fillings and higher spring counts, they can be cumbersome to rotate or move.
- Potential Allergy Issues: Some natural fillings, such as wool or lambswool, may trigger allergies. Always check the materials if you have sensitivities.
- Price: Typically more expensive than open coil mattresses due to the complexity of construction and higher-quality materials.
Open Coil vs Pocket Spring: Which Mattress Should You Choose?
| Feature | Open Coil Mattress | Pocket Spring Mattress |
| Support | Good, firm support | Excellent, contours to body |
| Durability | 3-5 years | 7-10 years |
| Motion Isolation | Poor | Excellent |
| Price | Budget-friendly | Premium |
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavy |
| Best For | Kids, guest rooms, budget buyers | Couples, long-term investment, people with back/joint issues |
Choosing the right mattress comes down to your sleeping style, health needs, and budget. Here’s a practical comparison to help guide your decision:
Tips for Choosing the Right Mattress
- Consider Your Sleeping Position:
- Side sleepers → Pocket springs offer better pressure relief.
- Back/ Stomach sleepers → Open coil may provide the firmness you need.
- Check for Edge Support:
Especially important in open coil mattresses to prevent sagging over time. - Think About Longevity:
If you plan to keep your mattress for 7+ years, a pocket spring mattress is likely the better investment. - Test Before Buying:
Lie down in your typical sleeping position for 10-15 minutes if possible. Comfort and support should feel natural. - Allergies:
Check the fillings, especially in pocket spring mattresses, for natural fibers if you’re prone to allergies.
Making Your Mattress Choice
Choosing between an open coil mattress and a pocket spring mattress depends on your individual needs. Open coil mattresses offer affordable, firm support. They are perfect for children or short-term use, while pocket spring mattresses provide superior comfort, durability, and motion isolation, making them ideal for couples or long-term investment.
At Super Beds, we recommend assessing your sleep style, your partner’s needs, and your budget before making a decision. Remember, a mattress is more than just a place to sleep; it’s an investment in your health, comfort, and quality of life.
Invest wisely, and enjoy restful, uninterrupted nights for years to come.
