Bonnell Springs
Originally adapted from carriage seat design, Bonnell springs are now primarily found in basic mattresses due to their characteristic bouncy nature.
Marshall Springs (Pocket Coils)
Invented by James Marshall, these individually wrapped coils allow independent movement and eliminate support gaps, remaining a hallmark of advanced mattress design.
The Elastic Bed Principle
Highly elastic materials are crucial in mattress construction for three primary reasons:
- Enhanced conformity to body contours
- Efficient rebound to original shape, ensuring consistent support
- Superior comfort compared to overly firm surfaces
Types of Coil Systems
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Open Spring Mattresses
Including bonnell, offset, and continuous coils, these systems are interconnected and rely heavily on upholstery for comfort. They’re commonly found in budget-friendly mattress options.
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Pocketed Spring Mattresses
Also known as Marshall coils, these individually encased springs offer improved motion isolation. They’re prevalent in mid-range to luxury mattresses, typically priced above $600 for a queen size.
Advanced Designs
Honeycomb Nested Springs
This innovative design eliminates gaps between springs, offering superior body conformity and enhanced point elasticity. It’s a hallmark of high-end mattresses, allowing for higher spring counts and thinner wire use.
Spring Specifications
Coil Counts and Density
Queen-size pocket coil mattresses typically contain around 800 coils, with premium models featuring over 1,500. High-end designs like the Berkeley Ergonomics Malmo can incorporate up to 1,484 springs in a queen size.
Micro Springs
A recent innovation, micro springs serve as a foam alternative, enhancing durability and support. Luxury mattresses may utilize between 9,000-25,000 micro springs for unparalleled comfort.
Upholstery and Mattress Comparison
Upholstery Considerations
Modern spring mattresses often incorporate foam upholstery layers. Some manufacturers opt for natural materials like latex, wool, or cotton to enhance breathability and longevity. The quality of these materials significantly impacts overall mattress performance.
Mainstream vs. High-End Mattresses
Mainstream Mattresses
Often utilizing firm springs and low-density polyurethane foam, these mattresses typically have a shorter lifespan of 3-5 years.
High-End Mattresses
Featuring advanced spring systems and premium upholstery materials, these mattresses offer superior comfort and extended durability.