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When it comes to mattresses, innerspring mattresses are some of the most popular options on the market. And for a good reason — they’re comfortable, supportive and durable. If you’re in the market for a new mattress or looking to learn more about the one you already have, you probably have a lot of questions. What exactly is an innerspring mattress? How are they made? What materials are used? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll answer all of your questions about innerspring mattresses.
Shop All of Our MattressesA Brief History and Evolution of the Innerspring Mattress
Innerspring mattresses have been around for over a hundred years. They were invented in 1871 by Heinrich Westphal, who patented his invention and started mass-producing innerspring mattresses. Innerspring was different from previous mid-19th century steel coil designs in that the coils were interconnected, which provided more support and durability.
In the early 1900s, other companies began producing their own versions of innerspring mattresses using different types of springs and materials. However, the first significant innovation came when James Marshall introduced pocketed springs. Pocket springs are individual coils that are wrapped in fabric pockets. This allows each coil to move independently, providing more support and fewer partner disturbances.
Innerspring mattresses have undergone many other changes and innovations over the years. Today, many variations of innerspring mattresses are available on the market, each with its unique combination of springs, materials and features.
How Are Innerspring Mattresses Made?
Innerspring mattresses have three main parts: coils, padding and fabrics. Let’s take a closer look at each of these components:
- - Coils – The coils are the foundation of an innerspring mattress. They provide support and determine how firm or soft the mattress will be.
- -Padding – The padding is placed on top of the coils and provides additional comfort. It also helps protect the coils from body weight and wear and tear.
- - Fabrics – The final layer is the fabric that covers the entire mattress and gives it a finished look. Most materials used for innerspring mattresses are made from cotton, wool or polyester blends.
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Get Comfortable with Quality Bed LinensInnerspring Mattresses with Foam or Latex
An innerspring mattress that incorporates a layer of foam or latex is known as a hybrid mattress. It’s not a true innerspring mattress, but it does have some features in common with innerspring mattresses. One of the main benefits of a hybrid mattress is that it combines the supportive feel of an innerspring mattress with the comfort and pressure relief of foam or latex. This can be an excellent option for people who want the best of both worlds.
What Are the Benefits of an Innerspring Mattress?
There are several benefits to using an innerspring mattress:
1) Support
An innerspring mattress is a great option if you’re looking for a mattress that will keep your spine correctly aligned. The coils in the mattress provide support and distribute weight evenly, which reduces pressure points. This can lead to fewer aches and pains and better sleep overall.
2) Durability
Innerspring mattresses are built to last. With proper care, an innerspring mattress can easily last for 10 years. This makes them an excellent investment for people who don’t want to replace their mattresses every five or six years. Sealy mattresses are a great example of innerspring mattresses that incorporate high-quality materials and which are built to last.
3) Breathability
Because of their construction, innerspring mattresses are more breathable than other types of mattresses. This means they help you sleep cooler, which can be a major plus for hot sleepers or people in warm climates.
4) Potential for Less Motion Transfer
If you share your bed with a partner, you know how annoying it can be when they toss and turn all night long. Luckily, innerspring mattresses that incorporate pocket coil technology excel at reducing motion transfer. This means you’re less likely to be awakened by your partner’s movements during the night.
5) Number of Options
Innerspring mattresses come in various firmness levels, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs. So whether you prefer a soft, cozy bed or a firm bed for optimal spine support, there’s an innerspring mattress out there that’s perfect for you.
What Are the Potential Drawbacks of an Innerspring Mattress?
While there are many benefits to using an innerspring mattress, there are also some potential drawbacks that you should be aware of.
To begin, some side sleepers find that innerspring mattresses are not for them. Instead, side sleepers often prefer softer mattresses or those made from adaptive materials like memory foam and latex because they provide pressure relief at the hips and shoulders. A good solution here is the previously mentioned hybrid mattress, which combines the supportive feel of an innerspring mattress with the pressure relief of foam or latex.
Additionally, innerspring mattresses may feel too firm for some people, particularly those who prefer a softer bed. But, again, this is simply a matter of preference. You may find that you need to try out a few different innerspring mattresses before you find one that suits your needs.
Finally, innerspring mattresses may not be as quiet as some other types of mattresses. If you’re a light sleeper, this may be something to remember. However, many innerspring mattresses have features like pocket coils that help reduce noise.
How Do You Care for Your Innerspring Mattress?
An innerspring mattress is an excellent investment for your sleep health and comfort. To keep your innerspring mattress in tip-top shape, you can do a few simple things to extend its life and keep it feeling like new. Here are four tips for taking care of your innerspring mattress:
- - Use a mattress protector – A mattress protector is an essential piece of equipment for keeping your innerspring mattress clean and protected from spills, dust, pet dander and other allergens. A good mattress protector may also be a requirement of your warranty.
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- - Rotate your mattress regularly – Regular rotation of your innerspring mattress will help to prevent body impressions and uneven wear. For innerspring mattresses under five years old, aim to rotate them once every six months. For mattresses over five years old, you can rotate them up to every two months. When turning your mattress, be sure to flip it over as well so that both sides get an equal amount of use.
- - Use a foundation, box spring or slatted bed – Using the proper support will help increase your innerspring mattress’s lifespan, especially if you have a larger bed size, by providing extra stability. These systems also allow for proper ventilation, which helps to keep your mattress cooler and prevents the build-up of moisture and mold.
- - Vacuum regularly – Regular vacuuming will help to keep your innerspring mattress free of dust and dirt buildup. Be sure to vacuum both the top and the bottom of your mattress using the soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Consider an Innerspring Mattress
Innerspring mattresses are a classic that has been around for generations. They’re a great option for people who prefer a firm bed or need extra support for their back and joints. Additionally, innerspring mattresses are available at price points good for any budget, and they offer plenty of options in terms of firmness levels and sizes.
If you’re considering investing in an innerspring mattress, keep the tips above in mind to help you choose the perfect one for your needs and extend its lifespan.