Foam Mattress vs. Spring Mattress: Which One is Right for You?

When buying a new mattress, the choice is usually between two favorite types — foam mattresses and spring mattresses. Although both are meant to provide comfort and support, they are vastly different in structure, texture, and overall advantage. Having the right mattress is critical to having a good night's sleep, so knowing how these two mattresses differ can guide you to the right choice.

In this guide, we will explain the most important differences between foam mattresses and spring mattresses to assist you in making a choice that best responds to your sleeping requirements.

What is a Foam Mattress?

A foam mattress consists of multiple layers of foam that offer a soft, body-contouring experience. Some of the most popular types are:

• Memory Foam: High-quality memory foam material is known for contouring your body shape and relieving pressure points.  

• Polyurethane Foam (PU Foam): Offers a soft, cushioning effect.  

• Latex Foam: Provides a firmer, more responsive feel with natural bounce.  

Good memory foam mattresses are designed to distribute your body weight evenly, providing support where it’s needed most.

What is a Spring Mattress?

A spring mattress has a set of metal coils that comprise the support core of the mattress. The coils are typically covered with a cushioning foam or fabric layer for comfort. Common spring mattress configurations are:

• Bonnell Springs: Classic spring systems with firm support and longevity.

• Pocket Springs: Isolated coils enclosed in fabric to minimize motion transfer.

Spring mattresses suit people who like a firmer, more springy feel.

Foam Mattresses vs Spring Mattresses: An Analysis

Comfort and Feel: Which One Feels Better?

The ideal mattress feel is personal, and it varies according to your body type, sleeping position, and comfort level.

• Foam Mattresses provide a softer, more cushioned surface that is moldable to the shape of your body. They are suited to side sleepers or joint pain sufferers as they provide relief from pressure.

• Spring Mattresses provide a firmer, bouncier sensation. They are ideal for back or stomach sleepers who enjoy firm support while sleeping.

Support and Spinal Alignment

Correct spinal alignment is important for avoiding back pain and a good night's sleep.

• Foam Mattresses are excellent at conforming to the curves of the body, providing great support for pressure points such as the shoulders and hips. They are an ideal option for individuals with back pain or arthritis.

• Spring Mattresses offer a firm, even surface. They are more appropriate for individuals who require firmer support or who sleep on their back or stomach.

Temperature Control: Which Mattress Sleeps Cooler?  

Maintaining coolness while sleeping is crucial for good sleep.

• Spring Mattresses facilitate improved airflow using the space between coils, and therefore they are inherently cooler.

• Foam Mattresses retain heat, particularly older memory foam. But newer designs now incorporate cooling gel layers or open-cell foam construction to help keep the mattress cooler.

Motion Isolation: Which Mattress is Better for Couples?

If you sleep with a partner, reducing motion transfer can enhance the quality of sleep.

• Foam Mattresses perform better in motion isolation, dissipating motion to avoid disturbance when your partner rolls over and turns.  

• Spring Mattresses tend to transfer more movement, particularly in designs featuring connected coils. Pocket spring constructions minimize this phenomenon but might not be as good as foam.  

Durability and Maintenance

Foam and spring mattresses both last a few years with adequate maintenance.

• Foam Mattresses tend to last longer and are less likely to sag if rotated on a regular basis.

• Spring Mattresses need to be rotated more often to avoid uneven wear and sagging in the long run.

Which Mattress Should You Choose?

The decision between a foam mattress vs a spring mattress is based on your personal preferences:

Select a Foam Mattress if:

• You like a soft, body-contouring sensation.

• You suffer from joint pain, arthritis, or backache.

• You desire minimal disturbance in movement when you have a bed partner.

Select a Spring Mattress if:

• You enjoy a firm, supportive feel with extra bounce.

• You sleep hot and require improved airflow.

• You're seeking a cost-effective option without sacrificing comfort.

Invest in Your Sleep for Better Health

Both foam and spring mattresses have their strengths, and the best choice depends on your personal preferences and sleep habits. If comfort and body support are your priorities, a foam mattress may be ideal. For those who prefer firm support and cooler nights, a spring mattress could be the perfect fit.

Whatever you select, buying Kurlon’s best-sleeping mattresses guarantees restful, uninterrupted sleep each night. Visit Kurlon's collection of good-quality mattresses to discover the ideal choice for your sleeping requirements.

FAQs

Q. How is a foam mattress made?
A. A foam mattress is crafted using layers of polyurethane, memory foam, or latex foam. These layers are designed to offer comfort, support, and pressure relief for restful sleep.

Q. How thick should a foam mattress be?
A. A foam mattress should ideally be 6 to 12 inches thick. Thicker options (8 inches or more) provide better support and durability, especially for heavier individuals.

Q. What is better, a spring or foam mattress?
A. A foam mattress offers body-contouring comfort and pressure relief, while a spring mattress provides firmer support and better airflow. The best choice depends on your sleep preference.