Learn the Most Common Mattress Types on the Market

Intro

They're many types of mattresses out there, so it can be confusing about what they all do. In our article, we've selected the most common types in the market. Each mattress has its own technology that it relies on, depending on your preference.

Remember, no mattress is the "worst", but not one is the "best", either. It all depends on what you prefer and what you find comfortable in your room. In this guide you'll read about each mattress type, construction, and what they provide to you.

Content

• Spring
• Foam
• Hybrid
• Latex
• Pillow Top
• Adjustable Bed
• Other types

Your mattress is the starting point to your ideal sleep environment, ask WebMD. When searching for a new mattress, it's important to know what's out there before buying one. Read our guide to buying a new mattress if you need help finding the right mattress for you.

Springs

The most traditional mattress type still available on the market. It is also the most used mattress type out there, constituting about 80% of American households. Older spring mattresses used to have cotton or other fiber material that provided layers of comfort. Nowadays, spring mattresses will have polyfoam as their layer of comfort. As a general rule, the more coils a spring mattress has, the more support it provides. Spring mattresses usually lasts 5-8 years. The lifespan of different mattresses will vary, however.

We have our own line of spring mattresses that uses a continuous coil system for support called ComfortFlex. This includes our ComfortRest (value line), ComfortMaster, and Hospitality (hotel quality) mattress line. It also includes our Regent line of mattresses, which also has gel or latex foam.

Innersprings

Construction

This mattress consists of internal and interlocking steel coils to provide support. On top of the mattress is a layer of polyfoam that provides extra comfort to the sleeper. The coils evenly distribute weight, reacting in unison when a person lays on the mattress.

What it provides

Innerspring mattresses are very versatile and it's coil count can range significantly. Yet, its construction is very simple, providing the basics for support and comfort. For someone experiencing back pain, the firmness of an innerspring might be what they need.

Pocketed Coil

Construction

Also known as encased coil, this mattress type has each spring individually wrapped in a fabric pocket. The result allows each spring to react independently from each other. Each spring is of metal or metal-composite, much like innerspring. The top layer usually consists of polyfoam or some other type for padding.



What it provides

A pocketed coil mattress is usually softer than an innerspring mattress. Unlike an innerspring mattress, it provides better support for heavier sleepers. For others, a greater degree of comfort is also noticed. Because the springs are individually wrapped, each one reacts separately from each other. This isolates movement to a particular spot without disturbing a potential sleep partner.

Foam

Polyurethane foam, memory foam, and latex are the 3 most common types of foam available. They are usually advertised and shipped to the customer as a "bed-in-a-box". Most mattresses incorporate polyfoam on top, such as spring mattresses. Mattresses made entirely out of foam uses visco-elastic foam, also known as memory foam. During mattress construction, the density of foam can be adjusted to make it softer or firmer. Most foam mattresses will last 8 -12 years.

Our SensuRest line of premium foam mattresses offers 3 different models: Gel memory foam, latex, and hybrid.

PolyFoam

Construction

Polyurethane foam, also known as polyfoam, is synthetic. It is a very flexible and durable material used on a variety of mattresses. It is the most common and least expensive type of foam out there. Make sure the mattress you buy is CertPUR-US Certified. This ensures the polyfoam is free of dangerous metals and chemicals. All our polyfoam mattresses are CertPUR-US Certified.

What it provides

Polyfoam provides basic padding and comfort on the top layer of the mattress. The thickness of polyfoam will vary, depending on personal preference and comfort level. Typically, the higher the density, the longer the polyfoam will last.

Memory Foam

Construction

Made of layers of visco-elastic polyurethane foam. Chemical properties are added to give it a different feel from basic polyfoam. Because of this difference, it is usually denser and more expensive than basic foam.

What it provides

Memory foam is adaptable and will mold itself to the body's shape and weight. It will then slowly expand back to it's original shape once the sleeper gets out of bed, hence it's name. Memory foam offers great support since it can distribute weight across the surface. Those who suffer from back and joint pain will find this mattress comforting. Memory foam will also keep heat in, providing warm insulation to the sleeper.

Latex

Construction

Latex is from natural or synthetic rubber and reacts much the same way as memory foam. It is manufactured from the byproduct of sap from rubber trees. Once enough is gathered, it is then molded into foam. Sometimes chemical synthesis is used to imitate the natural feel of rubber. In other cases, a blend of these two methods are sometimes used.

What it provides

Latex provides relief for those who suffer from chemical allergies. It is also resistant to microorganism, such as dust mites. Latex also provides a cooler mattress to sleep on, and is known for it's firm and supportive surface. Those who prefer a softer "hugging" feeling might want to go with memory foam. Those who want the same "hugging" feeling, but prefer a firmer surface, might want a latex mattress.

Gel Foam

Construction

Made from gel particles and visco-elastic foam. Gel-infused foam controls body heat by pulling it to the core of the mattress to keep the top layer cooler.

What it provides

Gel-infused foam provide everything memory foam offers and more. Because of the properties to make it, Gel will respond to pressure as it molds to the body more effectively. It also provides a cool relief to hot sleepers due to it breathability and lighter density.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses include more than one mattress technology in one type of mattress. Our Regent luxury line of hybrid mattresses are one such example. Regent is our high-end mattress line with padding and deep quilting. It also includes our ComfortFlex springs technology and our SensuRest polyfoam on top.

Construction

Hybrid mattress combines the best qualities of both spring and memory foam mattresses. Some hybrids use the pocketed spring system for support. Others will use the standard spring system depending on the manufacturer. A layer of memory foam is usually stitched on top for comfort. Sometimes a hybrid mattress will be made out of latex foam instead of regular foam. A common hybrid mattress will last 8 - 10 years.

What it provides

Hybrid mattresses are the best of both worlds. The support of a mattress spring, and the soft comfort of memory foam make it attractive. Those with back pain sometimes prefer a hybrid for its stability. They also enjoy its comfort without causing undue pressure. A Latex-hybrid option will also give the benefits of a latex foam mattress.

Pillow Top

Construction

Pillow top types include spring, foam, and latex mattresses. When made, an extra layer of padding is stitched on top for added cushion and comfort. Because of this, pillow tops will have a thicker appearance than most mattress types.



What it provides

Pillow tops provide an extra layer of comfort on top of a firm mattress. It's considered the softest mattress type according to comfort level. It is also recommended for side and back sleepers with back and hip pain if they don't want to replace their firm mattress.

Adjustable Bed

These are actually bed frames made to be adjustable for those who want to sleep in different positions. Some mattress companies will combine an adjustable frame with a mattress than can be adjusted. Such mattresses include memory foam, latex, air, and pocketed spring mattresses. Patients at hospitals or those with medical issues are often put in adjustable beds.

Construction

These adjustable bed frames are built with a mechanical foundation. This allows for the mattress placed on top to be adjusted according to sleep preferences. They are heavier than the typical bed frame and need electricity to power it.

What it provides

Adjustable beds provide extra comfort in different sleep positions. Those with sleep apnea will enjoy an adjustable bed since lying flat could cause respiratory distress. Those with hip or back pain can also enjoy this since it offers improved mobility and comfort while sleeping. Those who snore may also benefit from this since certain sleep positions will alleviate snoring. Specific sleep problems can also be targeted by an adjustable bed, such as back pain post-surgery.

Other types

These are the least common types of mattresses still found in the market today. Although they are still relevant and have some benefits, their popularity is slowly declining.

Waterbed

Construction

The mattress itself is made from vinyl or some other composite. The traditional waterbed had one chamber filled with water for a full wave experience. Today, waterbeds can have more than one chamber for those with sleep partners. Waterbeds also come with a hard- or soft-side with various wave to semi-waveless subtypes.

What it provides

Waterbeds can treat lower back pain because a person's weight can be distributed without being too firm. It also provides adequate joint-relief for those suffering from arthritis. Since water is a natural heat conductor, some heated types can simulate the feeling of a warm bath. Those who suffer bed sores can also relax on a waterbed because of the even pressure it provides. For history of the water bed, you can read more here.

Air Bed

Construction

These mattresses are made from rubber or durable vinyl. All air beds are filled with air through a pump provided by the manufacturer. High-end air beds use many air chambers to accommodate different firmness levels.

What it provides

Air beds are simple, but they do provide the ability to adjust it's firmness level. Yet, these types of beds offer specific comfort levels only a few might enjoy. More expensive mattresses might include a foam layer on top for extra padding. Most air beds are also portable and can be stored anywhere. More information on the typical air mattress can be found here.

What do you think?

Do you have a pretty good idea of what type of mattress you need? Remember, not one mattress is the best, it just depends on what you find comfortable in your room. Don't be afraid to try out several of them before making a decision. Your satisfaction is your utmost priority!

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