The innerspring mattress is perhaps the most classic option out there. It’s been around for a while, and for good reason. To put it simply in the mattress world, springs equal support. Innerspring mattresses typically feature a steel coil system under a padded comfort layer, resulting in a comfortable yet supportive bed that usually has a bit of bounce to it.
The best innerspring mattresses will feature coil units that encourage good spinal alignment and complement the other layers of the bed. However, not all springs are the same: they have various gauges, they might be encased differently, and the total number of them will vary from bed to bed.
My team and I have tested out plenty of innerspring beds. So, if you’re looking for springs over foam (or a mix of the two), we’ve put together a list that should help you pick a mattress with the right kind of coils for your needs.
Best Innerspring Mattresses
- Saatva Classic – Editor’s Pick
- Helix Midnight – Best Innerspring Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Emma Hybrid Comfort – Best Budget Innerspring Mattress
- WinkBed – Best Innerspring Mattress for Back Pain
- Nolah Evolution – Best Luxury Innerspring Mattress
- Titan Plus Luxe – Best Innerspring Mattress for Heavy People
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Cooling Innerspring Mattress
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Innerspring Mattress for Couples
- Plank Firm Luxe – Best Firm Innerspring Mattress
- Birch Natural – Best Organic Innerspring Mattress
Best Innerspring Mattresses: Our Video Review
Compare Innerspring Mattresses
Saatva Mattress | Helix Midnight Mattress | Emma Hybrid Comfort | WinkBed Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Luxe Mattress | Birch Natural Mattress | |
Rating | ||||||||||
Firmness | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Firm: 7/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 |
Material | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
Cooling | — | — | — | — | ||||||
Warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime Warranty | 10-year warranty | 10-year warranty | 25-year warranty |
Shipping | Free white glove delivery | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping minus HI and AK | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping minus HI and AK | Free shipping |
Trial Period | 365 nights | 100 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 Nights | 100 nights |
Best For | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers | Couples, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Couples, Back Sleepers | Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers |
Sleep Advisor’s Testing Methodology
At Sleep Advisor, our mattress reviews are based on findings from in-person tests that allow us to have a genuine understanding of how the mattress feels and performs. We look at features that are valuable to consumers, such as temperature control, bounce, edge support, and motion isolation.
We also evaluate mattress performance for back, side, and stomach sleeping. Lying in different positions lets us know how supportive the bed is and if it’s good at relieving pressure.
We then take all the information we’ve gathered to rate the bed in specific categories. These results allow us to help our readers find the right mattress for their needs.
For this roundup, we prioritized features that are especially important for an innerspring bed. such as support, responsiveness, and pressure relief.
The Best Innerspring Mattresses, Reviewed
Saatva Classic – Editor’s Pick
Saatva Mattress
Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Saatva Classic Earned Best Innerspring Mattress Overall
What’s better than a sturdy, responsive innerspring unit? Two of them, of course. The Saatva Classic has long dominated the innerspring mattress market with a luxury bed that features dual coil units: an upper layer of pocketed springs, and a lower one of interconnected springs.
The result is, as our lead reviewer Julia put it, a “Goldilocks-esque blend” of cushioning and support. Her midsection was “perfectly lifted” in multiple sleeping positions, and she was pleasantly surprised by how pillowy and not-at-all obtrusive that first layer of coils felt.
The Classic’s innovative design proves that you can truly double your fun when you double down on springs, and for that reason, it’s earned Editor’s Pick.
What’s the Saatva Classic Made Of?
The Saatva Classic begins with a 3-inch Euro top that feels pillowy and posh. At the very surface is an organic cotton cover, which breathes easy and protects the Euro top’s comfort foam. Its quilting also firms up beneath your lumbar spine for enhanced back support right off the bat.
Next is a layer of high-density memory foam that occupies the center third of the bed—again, right underneath that sensitive lumbar area.
It’s followed by the first coil unit, which consists of individually wrapped coils that are shorter and more flexible than traditional springs. They’re stronger in that same lumbar zone, and they compress easily to give the right amount of pushback to separate regions of the body.
The second coil unit has thicker springs and an interconnected design. It also features a “Lumbar Zone® Active Spinal Wire” that encircles the lumbar area for even more bracing support.
Finally, the edges of the Saatva stay strong thanks to a high-density foam perimeter.
Although the inner workings of the Saatva Classic stay pretty much constant, you can customize the height and firmness of your bed. It’s available with either an 11.5- or 14.5-inch profile, and in three feels: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm.
What We Liked
- Lots of versatility – The Saatva Classic has extremely broad appeal thanks to its customization options and well-balanced design. “This is a bed that’s super approachable for all sleep types,” said Julia. Her fellow tester, Stuart, agreed: “This [bed] provides a firm, supportive feel without sacrificing comfort.”
- Emphasis on back support – With so many lumbar-focused features, the Classic takes back support seriously. Stuart, who sometimes experiences back pain, characterized it as a great choice for people who need that extra lift around their spine.
- Edges that don’t dip – “Both lying and sitting at the edge, I was completely secure,” said Julia. The high-density foam that frames the bed discourages too much buckling, even when you’re applying direct pressure.
Potential Drawbacks
- Motion does carry – “You can definitely feel big movements,” Julia said during testing. Small shifts in position weren’t as noticeable, but if you toss and turn vehemently at night, a sleeping partner will be jostled, too.
- Supportive, not soft – This isn’t the best bed for someone who really wants to sink into some plush foam layers. “The Euro pillow top is soft, but I do feel a little more like I’m sleeping on top of the mattress, rather than sinking into it,” said Stuart.
Customer Reviews of the Saatva Classic
The Saatva Classic rates 4.8 stars out of 5 on Saatva’s website. One negative aspect customers found with the Saatva Classic mattress is that it may feel too firm for some users, while a notable advantage is its high-quality materials, providing durability and support.
Interested in learning more? Browse our picks for the overall best mattresses of 2024.
Helix Midnight – Best Innerspring Mattress for Side Sleepers
Helix Midnight Mattress
Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Helix Midnight Earned Best Innerspring Mattress for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers require a welcoming, pressure-relieving surface paired with robust support that won’t let their spine dip out of alignment. On both counts, the Helix Midnight satisfies.
My fellow tester Loren noticed that it’s a perfect balance, saying that “you feel hugged and cradled by the top layer of foam, but the coils keep you from sinking too far.” There’s also plenty of cushion on top to keep pressure from building up in your hips and shoulders.
What’s the Helix Midnight Made Of?
The Midnight has five internal layers plus a soft, stretchy cover, and stands 11.5 inches tall.
Its first layer consists of Memory Plus foam, Helix’s proprietary take on traditional memory foam. It’s the most plush layer of the bed and cushions sharp joints such as the shoulders and hips.
Next up are two layers of Helix Responsive foam: one with a medium feel that further contours to your silhouette, and one with a more supportive feel that leads into the spring unit.
The coils in the Midnight are individually wrapped so that they can move independently of one another. They’re also reinforced on the long sides of the mattress so that the edges don’t sag too much when you spread out. They rest on the bed’s final layer: a sheet of stabilizing DuraDense foam.
What We Liked
- Springy and responsive – As a combination sleeper, Emma appreciated how seamlessly she could move between different positions on the Midnight. The softer foam layers didn’t cancel out the springiness from the coil unit, nor did the springs disrupt the cushioning of the foam.
- Isolates motion well for a hybrid – “This bed is a hybrid with decent bounce, so we were actually really surprised by how well it isolated motion,” said Emma. She recommended the mattress for couples who value a bit of bounce to their bed but don’t want to wake up every time one of them moves.
- A more-than-fair price – Emma called the Helix Midnight “a killer value for the money.” You can typically snag this hybrid for around $1,000 for a queen when deals are running.
Potential Drawbacks
- A touch too soft for stomach sleepers – When Emma laid on her stomach, she felt her hips sink into the Midnight just a tad too much. “I’m still decently comfortable,” she said, “but I might suggest a firmer mattress for exclusive stomach sleepers.”
- No deep hug – Like many innerspring mattresses, the Midnight trades a slow, sinking feel for something more springy and buoying. “If you want that old-school memory foam feel, this bed may not be for you,” Emma commented.
Customer Reviews of the Helix Midnight
The Helix Midnight rates 4.5 stars out of 5 on Helix’s website. The main negative is that reviewers tend to find it too soft for their liking and feel as though they’re sinking. But overall, users say they’re getting a great nights’ sleep and some pain relief.
Want to learn more? Explore our picks for the best mattresses for side sleepers.
Emma Hybrid Comfort – Best Budget Innerspring Mattress
Emma Hybrid Comfort
With three foam layers for comfort and a zoned innerspring unit, this hybrid mattress from Emma can support sleepers of all shapes and sizes.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Emma Hybrid Comfort
With three foam layers for comfort and a zoned innerspring unit, this hybrid mattress from Emma can support sleepers of all shapes and sizes.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Emma Hybrid Comfort
With three foam layers for comfort and a zoned innerspring unit, this hybrid mattress from Emma can support sleepers of all shapes and sizes.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Emma Hybrid Comfort Earned Best Budget Innerspring Mattress
The Emma Hybrid Comfort is one of the best options if you’re on the hunt for an affordable innerspring mattress: sales and coupons can bring this bed down to just $700 or so for a queen.
Even at that low price, this bed is a good bet in terms of longevity. Its pocketed springs are built to support larger bodies as well as couples, so they should last longer than more traditional coil units. The foam above the springs are likewise designed to stand up to lots of pressure while remaining cool and comfortable.
What’s the Emma Hybrid Comfort Made Of?
The Emma Hybrid Comfort has six total layers (plus a bottom cover) and stands 13 inches tall.
Its top cover feels soft and breathes easily. Underneath are three layers of foam meant to keep sleepers cool and absorb motion. The first layer of Airgocell® foam has an open-cell design, meaning it’s less dense than closed-cell foams and full of small air pockets that help with temperature regulation.
It’s followed by a layer of memory foam that contours to the body’s pressure points, then by a layer of thicker, firmer foam for enhanced support.
The Hybrid Comfort’s springs are, according to the brand, strong enough to support all body types. Under the springs, there’s a base layer of foam that lends even more support and stability to the bed.
What We Liked
- Motion isolation – The three different layers of foam on top of the Hybrid Comfort not only provide comfort, but also dampen motion. If you sleep with a partner, you shouldn’t feel them moving very much.
- It stays cool – A breathable cover, open-cell foam, and coils that allow for airflow combine to make this bed feel pretty breezy, even if you share it with someone.
- High weight capacity – Emma designed this bed to suit plus-sized sleepers and couples, so it should provide the lift and support that these consumers prize.
Potential Drawbacks
- Not much cradling – The comfort foams in the Hybrid Comfort are, well, comfortable, but they won’t cradle you like traditional memory foam. This mattress is more about elevating you than letting you sink in.
- High profile – Some folks might prefer a tall bed, and at 13 inches thick, the Hybrid Comfort certainly fits the bill. Still, be aware that taller mattresses tend to be bulkier and more difficult to move.
Customer Reviews of the Emma Hybrid
This is a fairly new mattress, so Emma’s site doesn’t have many reviews yet, but early customers already rate it an impressive 5 out of 5 stars. So far customers appreciate the Emma Hybrid Comfort mattress for its excellent motion isolation, but some have reported that it may have a slight initial off-gassing odor upon unboxing.
Want to see more affordable beds? Check out the best mattresses on a budget.
WinkBed – Best Innerspring Mattress for Back Pain
WinkBed Mattress
WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the WinkBed Earned Best Innerspring Mattress for Back Pain
When a bed boasts about something called a LumbarLayer™, you can reasonably infer that it’s going to feel good on your back. The WinkBed’s LumbarLayer™ is an internal portion of foam that boosts support around the lumbar spine, and it’s just one of several features that can help with back pain.
Others include the mattress’s zoned coils and its cushiony Euro top, which work together to provide a good balance of targeted pushback and pressure relief. Our reviewers Sean and Mark enjoyed the WinkBed’s sturdiness and “ample support.” Speaking about its innerspring system, Sean commented that the pocketed coils do indeed “[help] keep the spine aligned when I roll onto my back.”
What’s the WinkBed Made Of?
The first layer of the WinkBed is a Tencel® cover that gives the surface a welcomingly cool feel. It protects the Euro-style pillow top beneath, which is quilted with a gel-infused foam. This layer feels quite soft, and the gel inside it should prevent overheating.
Additional layers of comfort foams follow, and their makeup may vary depending on which firmness level of the WinkBed you order: the Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, or Plus.
This area of the bed includes the brand’s LumbarLayer™, a section of foam that gives added lift to the lower back.
Next is the coil unit, featuring distinct zones for precise amounts of support under different areas of the body. The springs are thicker around the sides of the mattress for pronounced edge support, as well.
All told, the WinkBed stands about 13.5 inches high.
What We Liked
- Many options to choose from – With four available firmness levels, including one for heavier folks, the WinkBed feels very customizable. “You can choose what style is gonna best fit your body,” said Mark, an exclusive side sleeper who needs more pressure relief up top.
- A balanced feel – The WinkBed’s Euro top eases you into the bed with its plusher foam, but the spring unit doesn’t let you sink too deep. “This cradles my body, but it’s also supportive,” said Mark.
- Edges that stay strong – “I can roll right up to the edge of the bed without losing that supportive feel,” said Sean. The reinforced edges make the WinkBed an appealing choice for sleepers who really like to spread out.
Potential Drawbacks
- You won’t be surrounded by softness – “People who like to feel like they are sleeping in the bed may feel more like they are floating on top of this mattress,” Sean remarked. Because of its coils, the WinkBed will not be able to replicate the same feel as an all-foam bed.
- You might feel some motion transfer – “This mattress might not provide the same level of motion absorption as an all-foam bed,” said Sean. “But the coils respond individually, which does help to prevent too much movement.”
Customer Reviews of the WinkBed
On the WinkBeds site, the WinkBed earns a 4.8 out of 5 stars. One drawback of the WinkBed mattress is that it might be too expensive for budget-conscious shoppers, but overall it offers excellent durability and customizable firmness options.
Want to read more? Browse the best mattresses for back pain.
Nolah Evolution – Best Luxury Innerspring Mattress
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Nolah’s innovative pressure-relieving abilities should be an excellent fit for side-sleepers, and if you struggle with overheating, the AirFoamICE™ technology should keep you cool all night long.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Nolah’s innovative pressure-relieving abilities should be an excellent fit for side-sleepers, and if you struggle with overheating, the AirFoamICE™ technology should keep you cool all night long.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Nolah’s innovative pressure-relieving abilities should be an excellent fit for side-sleepers, and if you struggle with overheating, the AirFoamICE™ technology should keep you cool all night long.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Why the Nolah Evolution Earned Best Luxury Innerspring Mattress
At 15 inches high and with several original materials inside, the Nolah Evolution isn’t too concerned with mattress tradition or looking modest. It’s a luxury bed that’s “packed with soft layers for plush relief,” according to our tester, Stuart.
Even though it has an above-average number of components, the Evolution harmonizes them well. Its softer foam layers complement its responsive coils, and it keeps its lofty profile from getting too warm with multiple cooling elements.
What’s the Nolah Evolution Made Of?
At the surface of the Evolution is a cover made with organic cotton and cooling ArcticTex™ fibers. The Euro topper underneath also has quilting with a high thermal conductivity, so it can both attract and dissipate heat through the surrounding vented gusset.
The topper features 2 inches of comfort foam, followed by 2 inches of Nolah’s proprietary AirFoamICE™. According to the brand, this material is a measurable step up from memory foam, as it’s more long-lasting, less prone to heat retention, and better at pressure relief.
There are two more foam layers—a 2-inch sheet of high-resilience foam and a 1-inch sheet of transition foam—before the bed’s coil unit.
Nolah claims that their springs offer 25% more support than traditional designs, and they’re also zoned. They should compress more easily under parts of the body that require more cushioning, and push back against the parts that need more resistance, such as the lumbar region. They’re also reinforced along the bed’s perimeter.
Finally, the Evolution’s base layer is made of recycled plant fiber and lends stability to the entire bed.
You can order the Nolah Evolution in one of three firmness levels: Plush, Luxury Firm, or Firm. Regardless of which firmness you choose, the bed will stand 15 inches high.
What We Liked
- It looks and feels classy – Its impressive height and its plethora of layers make this bed an obvious luxury item—with a luxurious feel to match. “The Nolah Evolution has been one of my favorite mattresses to try,” said our tester Liz. “Not only is it supportive, but it’s really comfortable.”
- Easy repositioning – “I found that this mattress is pretty responsive,” said Stuart. “Even though it’s got some plush and sink to it, I was still able to move around and reposition easily.”
- Strong edge support – Liz was especially fond of the Evolution’s sturdy edges: “As someone with disabilities, getting in and out of bed can be a little difficult. But having the reinforced edges makes all the difference.”
Potential Drawbacks
- It’s heavy to lift – “Make sure you have someone available to help you set this thing up,” Stuart advised. “It’s thicker than most of the mattresses we work with.” Thankfully, the borders of the mattress are outfitted with carrying handles.
- Stomach sleepers may dip too low – For an innerspring, the Nolah Evolution is pretty plush on top. “Stomach sleepers may find that their hips and lower back sink pretty deep into this mattress,” said Stuart.
Customer Reviews of the Nolah Evolution
The Nolah Evolution rates 4.5 stars out of 5 on Nolah’s website. Customers frequently commend the Nolah Evolution mattress for its exceptional pressure relief and cooling properties, but some have observed that it may produce slight off-gassing upon unboxing.
Looking for more info? Discover our picks for the best luxury mattresses.
Titan Plus Luxe – Best Innerspring Mattress for Heavy People
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
This specially-designed hybrid is made for heavier sleepers to help them get better, more comfortable sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
This specially-designed hybrid is made for heavier sleepers to help them get better, more comfortable sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
This specially-designed hybrid is made for heavier sleepers to help them get better, more comfortable sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
Why the Titan Plus Luxe Earned Best Innerspring Mattress for Heavy People
The Titan Plus Luxe was developed as an upgrade to the Titan Plus, with more height and an additional layer. Its construction seeks to directly counteract the most common issues shared by larger sleepers, such as a saggy middle, a lack of edge support, and overheating.
Our tester, Sean, was a fan. “It’s hard to find beds that accommodate heavier folks like myself, and this one did the trick,” he said. “It generously supported my weight.”
What’s the Titan Plus Luxe Made Of?
The Titan Plus Luxe is 13 inches tall and contains five total layers.
At the top, you’ll find a 1-inch layer of quilted gel foam that aims to counteract heat buildup. Beneath is a 2-inch layer of TitanFlex™ comfort foam. This foam should feel medium-firm, and will mold to sensitive pressure points.
Next is a layer of Energex™ foam, which adds to the bed’s contouring powers and acts as the final comfort layer before the spring unit.
The 8-inch coils in the Titan Plus Luxe are 2 inches taller than those in the original Titan Plus. They also boast a higher gauge around the edges of the mattress so that support doesn’t dwindle on the sides.
Finally, there’s a 1-inch layer of high-density foam at the bed’s base.
If you’re concerned about sleeping hot, you can also pay an extra charge to add a GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover to the surface of the mattress.
What We Liked
- Great for bigger bodies, but not overly firm – Sean liked how the Titan Plus Luxe didn’t feel super unyielding at first. Instead, it “gently accepts you with a hug and supports you all night long.”
- It accommodates smaller sleepers, too – The Titan Plus Luxe incorporates enough pressure relief for smaller sleepers to enjoy it as well. Take it from our tester, Emma: “I’ve tried out a number of mattresses that are built for sleepers who are plus-sized, and generally I find that the mattresses are too firm … However, the [Titan Plus Luxe] was not like that at all … The top is incredibly plush and I’m able to really take advantage of the transition layers.”
- Quick responsiveness – The innerspring unit inside the Titan Plus Luxe gives it a helpful boost in bounce. “I never felt like I was stuck or that I was sinking into the bed,” said Sean, adding that it was “easy to get in and out of bed and reposition myself.”
Potential Drawbacks
- It’s big and bulky – Sean immediately noticed how hefty this mattress was. “We strongly recommend that people call up a friend or relative when they set this thing up, because it can be a bit of a beast to move,” he said.
- Might be too firm for lightweight side sleepers – Although both he and Emma enjoyed this bed, Sean cautioned that it “may be too firm for some folks.” If you’re very petite and only sleep on your side, you might want a little more sink to those initial layers.
Customer Reviews of the Titan Plus Luxe
Users on Titan by Brooklyn Bedding’s site have given the Titan Plus a 4.7 out of 5 stars. Customers find the Titan Plus mattress to offer exceptional durability and support, but some mention that it might be too firm for those who prefer a softer feel.
Intrigued by this mattress? Discover the best mattresses for heavy people.
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Cooling Innerspring Mattress
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
With coils and foam layers, this Bear mattress offers zoned support without taking away from the pressure-relieving properties. The bed also has copper infusions to ensure the best cooling for hot sleepers and athletes.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
With coils and foam layers, this Bear mattress offers zoned support without taking away from the pressure-relieving properties. The bed also has copper infusions to ensure the best cooling for hot sleepers and athletes.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
With coils and foam layers, this Bear mattress offers zoned support without taking away from the pressure-relieving properties. The bed also has copper infusions to ensure the best cooling for hot sleepers and athletes.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Bear Elite Hybrid Earned Best Cooling Innerspring Mattress
The Bear Elite Hybrid is Bear’s most luxurious model, and it also keeps cool. Most of it is owed to its cover, which incorporates both temperature-regulating phase change material and the performance textile Celliant®. According to early studies, Celliant® may be able to up the quality of your sleep by converting excess heat into infrared energy, which then promotes muscle recovery.
Our tester, Stuart, also enjoyed the Bear Elite Hybrid for its targeted support that the innerspring unit offers. “Sleepers with back, hip, or shoulder pain will love the zoned coil system,” he said.
What’s the Bear Elite Hybrid Made Of?
The Bear Elite Hybrid has five total layers and a 14-inch profile. It’s available in a Firm, Medium, or Soft feel.
Its hand-quilted cover incorporates Celliant®, a performance textile that allegedly helps to boost bloodflow and re-energize the body after a day of activity. It also contains PCM (Phase Change Material) that should draw in unwanted heat.
Underneath is a layer of copper-infused memory foam that combines pressure relief with the antimicrobial and cooling properties of copper. It leads into a layer of firmer transitional foam.
Next, you’ll find the bed’s spring unit. The coils within are zoned so that thicker coils in the center give added support to the lumbar region of the spine. Around the edges of the mattress, the coils are reinforced so sleepers can feel secure on either side.
The base layer consists of a high-density foam that ensures the bed’s solidity and durability.
What We Liked
- Zoned coils – The innerspring unit in this bed is split into zones, all the better to provide targeted pushback where your body needs it. “[The coils] relieve pressure in the areas you sleep on and support the areas that need a little extra boost, specifically the lumbar area,” Stuart said.
- Good motion isolation – Even though it’s a hybrid, the Bear Elite manages to control motion transfer to an impressive degree. “The bed’s responsive, but there’s minimal motion transfer across the surface compared to a typical innerspring bed,” Stuart remarked.
Potential Drawbacks
- Too plush for stomach sleepers – In Stuart’s opinion, “The pillow top may still be a little plusher than hardcore stomach sleepers prefer.” Dedicated stomach sleepers may want to pursue a firmer model.
- Too chilled for cold sleepers – One of our testers, Sydney, already sleeps pretty cool, so she found the Bear Elite Hybrid to a little too cold for her liking.
Customer Reviews of the Bear Elite Hybrid
According to Bear’s website, the Bear Elite scores about 4.5 out of 5 stars. Some customers find the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress too firm for their liking, but it receives praise in its reviews for its advanced cooling technology and pressure relief.
Want more details? Explore our picks for the best cooling mattresses.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Innerspring Mattress for Couples
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is priced similarly to other bed-in-the-box options, it represents a fantastic value in the hybrid market.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is priced similarly to other bed-in-the-box options, it represents a fantastic value in the hybrid market.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is priced similarly to other bed-in-the-box options, it represents a fantastic value in the hybrid market.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Why the Signature Hybrid Earned Best Innerspring Mattress for Couples
When there’s more than one person in an innerspring bed, you’ll want to counteract the responsiveness of the coils with the right amount of motion isolation. Fortunately, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid excels in both areas without sacrificing either.
This bed is topped with two types of foam for a cushioning surface that also absorbs motion. Its edges hold up well under weight, so couples can spread out and utilize the bed’s full surface area. What’s more, Emma characterized the mattress as “super versatile,” since she was able to switch from her stomach to her side and feel comfortable in both. The bed’s versatility extends to its firmness level: you can order it as a Soft, Medium, or Firm model, depending on you and your partner’s preferences.
What’s the Signature Hybrid Made Of?
The Signature Hybrid has five total layers that add up to an 11.5-inch profile. The exact thickness of each layer will depend on what firmness level you choose: Soft, Medium, or Firm.
The mattress begins with a quilted, breathable top, then transitions into a layer of Supreme Response comfort foam. This material molds to your body like memory foam, but reacts very quickly when you shift in bed, rather than sinking and reforming slowly.
Next is a layer of VariFlex™ foam that adds a bit more support to the mix. It’s followed by the coil unit, which includes tougher coils around the edges to prevent sagging.
At the very bottom, you’ll find a base of high-density foam.
What We Liked
- A fun amount of bounce – The Signature Hybrid is “really bouncy and responsive,” said Emma. Bounce is not only beneficial for combination sleepers who need to shift around a lot—it can also make a mattress well-suited for sexual activity.
- Reliable support – “I like how firm this bed feels,” Emma remarked. “It’s very supportive, which is great for back and stomach sleepers. It almost feels like the bed is lifting me up.”
- It absorbs motion – Emma and Mark were surprised to find that this bed dampened motion pretty well, in spite of its springs. “Couples shouldn’t be bothered by movements across the bed unless [they’re] really sensitive and super-light sleepers,” said Emma.
Potential Drawbacks
- Dedicated side sleepers may want more cushion – “If I exclusively slept on my side, I’d probably choose a softer bed,” said Emma, who felt a small amount of pressure buildup in her shoulders and hips. “But it shouldn’t be a problem for combo sleepers.”
- Lack of cooling components – “Some sleepers may find it to be just a little bit hot,” said Mark. You can pair this bed with a GlacioTex™ cooling cover and soft pillow top, but you’ll have to pay an additional fee.
Customer Reviews of the Signature Hybrid
On Brooklyn Bedding’s website, the Brooklyn Signature has 4.7 out of 5 stars. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress receives praise from customers for its versatility with different firmness options, but some have mentioned that it may produce slight noise when bearing weight.
Looking for more info? Peruse the best mattresses for couples.
Plank Firm Luxe – Best Firm Innerspring Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Luxe Mattress
The Plank Firm Luxe is a flippable hybrid mattress ideal for stomach and back sleepers looking for ultimate comfort, motion isolation, and spine alignment.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 Nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Luxe Mattress
The Plank Firm Luxe is a flippable hybrid mattress ideal for stomach and back sleepers looking for ultimate comfort, motion isolation, and spine alignment.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
120 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Luxe Mattress
The Plank Firm Luxe is a flippable hybrid mattress ideal for stomach and back sleepers looking for ultimate comfort, motion isolation, and spine alignment.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 Nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Plank Firm Luxe Earned Best Firm Innerspring Mattress
A firm innerspring mattress should have sturdy, strong springs that won’t lose their structure or bounce. If they’re too weak, you’ll be stuck with a saggy (and potentially even poky) mattress.
The Plank Firm Luxe doesn’t have this problem. It’s a flippable bed with a firm side and an “ultra-firm” side, both of which derive the bulk of their support from a robust 6-inch core of pocketed coils. Regardless of which side suits your tastes, my colleague Stuart said that “you should feel excellent support and alignment in this bed.” But take note: this bed is firm with a capital F, and it’s not a good fit for sleepers who need a pillowy surface.
What’s the Plank Firm Luxe Made Of?
The Plank Firm Luxe is 13.25 inches tall and has six primary layers. You can flip it so that either the ultra-firm and firm side is at the top. We’ll describe it with the ultra-firm side up.
- Layer 1 – Quilted Top Layer (0.75 inches). Continuous stitching ensures that this quilted top is totally flat.
- Layer 2 – High-Density Support Foam (2 inches). The brand’s firmest kind of foam provides support and a buffer layer between you and the coil core.
- Layer 3 – TitanCore Coils (6 inches). Pocketed springs comprise the main support unit of the mattress and enable it to bear up to 950 pounds comfortably.
- Layer 4 – High-Density Support Foam (2 inches). Another layer of very firm support foam.
- Layer 4 – Supreme Response Comfort Foam (1 inch). A springy foam that behaves much like latex for responsiveness and pressure relief.
- Layer 6 – Quilted Top Layer (1.5 inches). On the firm side, the quilted top has slightly more loft to it.
What We Liked
- Supportive enough for plus-size sleepers – “With this level of firmness, heavier individuals should find a good balance of contouring and support,” Stuart said. Lightweight sleepers, on the other hand, may find it too unyielding.
- It makes movement easy – Combination sleepers who change positions throughout the night should feel like this bed encourages rather than inhibits movement. “Because of how firm it is, I found that repositioning myself and getting in and out of the bed was very easy,” Stuart remarked.
Potential Drawbacks
- Probably not for side sleepers – Stuart cautioned that “both sides are very firm. And if you sleep on your side and want some significant pressure point relief or contouring for your shoulders and hips … this bed is probably not going to be the best fit.”
- Doesn’t cancel motion well – With no plush foams to absorb the ripples from someone moving atop the bed, the Plank Firm Luxe doesn’t have superior motion isolation.
Customer Reviews of the Plank Firm Luxe
On Plank’s website, the Plank Firm Luxe gets 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 1,700 reviews. According to customer feedback, the mattress is favored by many for its ultra-firm support. However, some customers say it’s firmer than they expected.
Want to see more? Check out the best firm mattresses.
Birch Natural – Best Organic Innerspring Mattress
Birch Natural Mattress
An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Birch Natural Mattress
An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Birch Natural Mattress
An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Why the Birch Natural Earned Best Organic Innerspring Mattress
If you try to keep the Earth in mind while you shop, the Birch Natural should gel well with your values. It’s a hybrid mattress with several organic and eco-friendly components, including organic cotton, organic wool, and natural latex. As for the domestically made springs, they give the mattress a lovely amount of responsiveness under all those green ingredients.
“This is a mattress that should work well for those who want a little more bounce and mobility, and those who prefer a more natural product,” said our tester, Stuart.
What’s the Birch Natural Made Of?
Including its cover, the Birch Natural mattress has six layers and stands 11 inches tall.
The cover is made of organic cotton that holds Global Organic Textile Standard certification. It’s followed by a layer of organic wool that acts as a natural fire retardant.
Next is a second layer of organic wool designed for comfort and cooling. Like the layer above, it can be traced directly back to the farm that supplied it—a sign that Birch takes its sourcing seriously.
Underneath the wool is a layer of natural Talalay latex. This foam is a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to poly foams, as it’s created from the sap of rubber trees. It has a springy feel but also eases pressure around the body, and maintains cooler temperatures more easily than memory foam.
The support layer of the mattress consists of pocketed coils. They’re reinforced along the long sides of the bed, so the edges shouldn’t dip too much when sleepers roll or sit on top of them.
At the base of the mattress is another layer of wool for added fire resistance and longevity.
What We Liked
- Lots of mobility – This mattress is very responsive, as it combines latex—a naturally springy material—with a coil support system. Stuart enjoyed this aspect: “I really appreciate the way the latex and coils respond to my movements, helping me to switch positions easier without feeling stuck in the bed.”
- Eco-friendly materials – “All the organic and natural materials [are] excellent for eco-conscious shoppers,” said Stuart. We’re inclined to agree; Birch goes above and beyond to include safe, environmentally friendly materials in its beds, so much so that the entire mattress is Global Organic Textile Standard certified.
- Sturdy edges – “I’m also a huge fan of the reinforced edge support,” said Stuart. “It feels like I can really utilize the entire mattress.”
Potential Drawbacks
- Motion will transfer – Latex and springs aren’t the best materials for stifling motion. If you’re worried about being woken up by the movements of a restless partner, you may want an innerspring bed with memory foam comfort layers, instead.
- It’s not very soft – The Birch Natural isn’t rock-hard, but it’s not super plush, either. It’s medium-firm by our metrics. “If you want a softer mattress, this might not fully suit your needs,” said Stuart.
Customer Reviews of the Birch Natural
According to Birch’s website, the Birch Natural scores a 4.6 out of 5 stars. While some users consider the Birch Natural mattress to be on the pricier side, it gains customer appreciation for its organic materials and sustainable, eco-friendly construction.
Curious about this bed? Explore the best organic mattresses.
Other Innerspring Mattresses We Tested
While these mattresses didn’t make our list, each of these innerspring beds are great fits according to our testing team. Check out our bonus featured recommendations below.
Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Product
Beautyrest Black MattressFirmness
Firm: 7.5/10Trial Period
100 nightsProduct
Leesa Legend MattressFirmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10Trial Period
100 nightsWhat Is an Innerspring Mattress?
An innerspring mattress is a bed that utilizes a coil unit (also called an innerspring unit) to support sleepers. These steel coils are typically positioned under layers of foam or other comfort materials to balance out their sturdy feel.
The number, shape, and gauge of the springs varies and yields different performance results. The way that these springs are arranged in a mattress can also vary; for example, they might be connected to one another or individually encased in fabric sleeves.
This classic mattress type has a traditional, bouncy feel. It’s been around for a while, so it might even be the kind of bed you slept on each night growing up. Nowadays, though, they’ve gotten an upgrade, so they retain the same springy support with some swanky added features.
Innerspring Mattress Advantages
Innerspring mattresses come with some significant advantages shoppers will definitely want to consider. For an in-depth look at innerspring mattress pros and cons read our guide “What is an Innersping Mattress“!
More Airflow
Innerspring beds do not conform to the shape of your body as much as memory foam beds. This means there is more airflow around you, which can prevent you from overheating at night.
Quick Response
You can also move quickly on an innerspring’s surface thanks to the highly responsive coils. Changing positions and getting up doesn’t require nearly as much effort. This can be beneficial for combination sleepers, sexually active couples, and those who might need extra help getting in and out of bed.
Variety
Innerspring mattresses are sold in a wide variety of models from a large selection of brands. Shoppers can choose from traditional innerspring or hybrid models, with numerous options among manufacturers. This means that there is likely to be one to suit your needs as well as your budget. Whether you want firm or soft, large or small, and with or without foam comfort layers, you should be able to find the right model for you.
Read More: Our list of Mattress Reviews
Budget-Friendly
Innerspring mattresses, particularly the traditional kind, are among the cheapest mattress types out there. Even though hybrids may cost more, some good-quality budget options are still available to consumers. As there are so many mattress models on the market, there should always be an affordable choice if you are on a budget.
Read Our Full Guide: Best Budget Mattresses
Innerspring Mattress Disadvantages
Poor Motion Isolation
Innerspring mattresses don’t isolate motion as well as all-foam mattresses due to the bouncy coils in the construction. This may be a setback for couples because one partner could easily feel the other’s movements.
Innerspring mattresses with pocketed coils and thick comfort layers are better at isolating motion.
The coils will react individually to movements rather than all together, and a thicker foam can aid in further keeping motion in one spot.
On the other hand, continuous coils and thin foam on top won’t do a good job. One movement will trigger the response of more coils, and the thin foams won’t do well to absorb it. These innerspring mattresses will have especially noticeable motion transfer.
Weight
Innerspring mattresses are fairly heavy due to the steel coils in the construction. Hybrid mattresses will be even heavier with the added foam layers. This may not seem as important, but what if you want or need to flip the mattress over? Plus, a heavy mattress requires a heavy-duty, reliable foundation that can carry the weight of the mattress plus whoever is sleeping on it.
What to Look For in a Coil Mattress
Innerspring mattresses come in a variety of models with many different features to entice you. Read on as we look at the important considerations to help determine which innerspring bed is right for you.
Sleeping Position
Your sleeping position plays a large part in determining what kind of bed you buy. The firmness of your mattress affects features like support, pressure relief, and alignment—all of which, in some combination, contribute to your comfort in certain positions.
For example, side sleepers will usually do best with softer spring beds because the added foams can provide pressure relief to the shoulders and hips. Back and stomach sleepers should look for a firmer innerspring model that supports the back and midsection well.
Body Weight
Traditional innerspring mattresses are good for average to heavier sleepers because these beds are firm enough to support and evenly distribute the sleeper’s weight. However, a lightweight individual might prefer a softer hybrid bed, with the comfort foams cushioning pressure points. Some hybrid versions are useful for average and heavier sleepers, but they’ll need to consider the firmness of the particular model and their sleeping position.
Firmness
Your preferred sleeping position and body weight are some of the biggest factors influencing the firmness level you’ll find most comfortable.
Soft beds are best for side and lightweight sleepers, who need gentle cradling and pressure relief. Medium-firm beds are best for back sleepers, combination sleepers, and average-size individuals. Lastly, firm beds are most beneficial for heavier individuals and stomach sleepers who need extra support for spine alignment. But you don’t have to subscribe to these suggestions. Firmness is subjective, and you should be able to feel what works for you!
Durability
Innerspring mattresses are known to be durable, lasting approximately seven to ten years. However, this can vary depending on a few factors, such as the quality of the materials and maintenance. As you might expect, beds with high-quality materials will last longer than more basic models made of lower-quality materials.
How you care for a mattress also has a huge say. For example, rotating it regularly and not letting your kids jump on it should help prolong its life. Find mattresses that don’t sag for more durable bed options.
Motion Isolation
Innerspring mattresses don’t isolate motion as well as all-foam mattresses because of their inherent bounce. This may be a setback for some couples, because you can easily feel one another’s movements.
If one or both of you are light sleepers, you may be waking each other up by tossing and turning or getting in and out of bed.
If you want an innerspring mattress and are worried about motion transfer, consider a spring bed with pocketed coils and thick comfort layers.
On the other hand, a bed with continuous coils and thin foam on top won’t do a good job absorbing movement.
Seniors looking for a supportive mattress should check out our Best Mattresses for Seniors.
Sex
For many people and couples, how well a mattress performs during sex is an important thing to consider. Fortunately, innerspring mattresses tend to be a great choice for those who are sexually active.
Innerspring mattresses’ bouncy coils quickly go back to their original shape when pressure is released. The responsiveness helps people from feeling stuck in the mattresses and allows them to reposition easier. Additionally, innerspring mattresses generally have good edge support, which will allow couples to utilize the entire surface area of their bed.
Related: Best Mattress for Sex
Pressure Relief
To provide adequate pressure relief, a mattress needs to offer comfort and contouring around more sensitive areas of the body, such as the hips and shoulders.
Considering that the top comfort layers of innerspring mattresses can be considerably thinner than other mattresses, they don’t typically offer much cushioning to relieve pressure. If pressure relief is near the top of your list of must-haves, hybrid mattresses, which have coils and thicker foam layers, could be a better fit.
More: Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
Edge Support
Couples or people who tend to migrate toward the edge of a bed will want a mattress that has good support around the perimeter.
Since coils are stronger and some models feature reinforced coils along the edges, we think innerspring beds are solid picks for couples and others who want added stability when getting in and out of bed.
Budget
Innerspring mattresses, particularly the traditional kind, are among the cheapest mattress types out there. Even though hybrids may cost more, some good-quality budget options are still available to consumers. As there are so many mattress models on the market, there should always be an affordable choice if you are on a budget.
Read Our Full Guide: Best Budget Mattresses
Types of Coils In an Innerspring Mattress
Different innerspring beds will feature different coil patterns and designs. The four primary coil types used in mattresses are featured below.
Bonnell Coils
Open coils, also called Bonnell coils, are the oldest type of spring system found in innerspring mattresses. Their design consists of multiple springs that are interconnected within a wire frame. A standard open-coil mattress usually contains about 300 springs.
This design usually provides very firm support. Bonnell coil units are also typically lighter than pocket spring units, making the beds easier to turn.
However, they aren’t the most durable coil type and are liable to sag or dip in the middle over time. This process can cause an uneven feel across the surface of the bed, as well as “roll-together,” which is when couples find themselves rolling into the divot.
Encased Coils
Encased coils are the most modern and sought-after coil type in innerspring beds. They’re also referred to as pocketed, wrapped, or Marshall coils.
A bed with these springs can have hundreds or even thousands of individual coils, each sitting in its own fabric pocket. As they are not attached to each other, the springs can move independently to provide pushback as needed. The individually wrapped springs also help prevent motion transfer, so if you move during the night, your partner is less likely to wake up.
This type of coil system conforms to your body, distributing your weight evenly and preventing the pressure buildup that can cause shoulder and back pain.
Due to these highly desirable features, pocket spring beds are usually the most expensive kinds of innerspring mattresses available.
Offset Coils
Offset coils are similar in structure to open coils, except each spring is hinged together by a helical wire on top. Like pocketed coils, this design provides increased contouring and better motion isolation than open coils.
This coil design can also feel firmer than pocketed coils, as the hinging effect allows the springs to bear more weight. Offset coils can be an excellent choice if you want a mattress with a softer surface but an especially firm, supportive core.
Continuous Coils
As the name suggests, continuous coil units (also known as Mira Coils) are made up of rows of coils that stretch from the head to the foot of the bed, made with a single piece of wire. These coils are then attached to one other with additional helical wires, forming an interconnected foundation.
This design results in a durable, firm, supportive mattress at a low cost. However, continuous coils do not conform to you in quite the same way as pocketed and offset coils do, and they can also be noticeably creaky.
Coil Count
The coil count is the number of coils (or springs) inside the mattress. This amount can range from 200 in a Twin to 1000 in a Queen size bed, or 2000 in a high-quality King size bed.
More coils tend to indicate a better-quality mattress, as the more springs there are, the sturdier it should be. This means a more supportive and longer-lasting bed.
It may not come as a surprise, then, that the higher the number of coils, typically equates to a higher cost. As a general rule of thumb, anything under 300 is considered poor quality.
However, bear in mind that the coil count isn’t the only thing that matters regarding quality. The gauge of the coil can be just as important.
Coil Gauge
The gauge of the coil refers to the thickness of the metal wire used to form the coil. Numbers commonly range from 12 and 15, with half gauges in between, but they can sometimes go up to 18.
While it may sound confusing, lower coil gauges have thicker wires and create a firmer spring, while higher coil gauges have thinner wires and provide a softer spring.
If your body type needs a bed on the firmer side that is more supportive, it’s best to go towards a 12-coil gauge. However, if you prefer a bouncy, plush mattress, shoot for 13.5 and above.
You should always compare the number of coils to the gauge of the coils when choosing your bed. This is because a bed with stronger wires but fewer coils can offer the same or even better quality as one with more but thinner coils.
Innerspring vs Other Materials
As we’ve said, an innerspring is the most classic you can go when it comes to mattresses. But how does it compare with other mattress types on the market?
Innerspring vs Memory Foam
Memory foam and innerspring beds are about as opposite as can be. Memory foam beds are constructed entirely out of memory foam, providing cushioning and sink that’s best for lightweight sleepers or those who sleep on their side. Innersprings tend to feel firmer than memory foams and offer more bounce.
Innerspring vs Hybrid
Simply put, a hybrid is an upgraded version of an innerspring mattress. Both mattress types feature coils, but a hybrid bed has added comfort layers on top, usually made of memory foam. Hybrids balance softness and support, making them a great pick for side and back sleepers. Learn more in our full Innerspring vs. Hybrid Mattresses guide
Innerspring vs Latex
Latex is a springy material naturally derived from the sap of rubber trees. Both springs and latex should provide bounce, but latex also possesses some cushioning and pressure-relieving abilities that some springs cannot offer. Latex is a great option for eco-conscious shoppers and combination sleepers. If you’re still not sure which option is best for you, check out the complete Latex vs. Innerspring Mattresses article.
Innerspring vs Pillow Top
A pillow top mattress has an extra pillowy, cushioning comfort layer on the mattress surface. It’s usually associated with higher-end or luxurious mattresses. An innerspring mattress can theoretically have a pillow top, but it’s more common in hybrid mattresses. Pillow top beds are great for luxury shoppers or anyone looking for pressure relief.
Compare Average Performance Ratings of Mattress Types
Performance Test | Innerspring | Memory Foam | Hybrid | Latex |
---|---|---|---|---|
Pressure Relief | 4 | 4.3 | 4.4 | 3.3 |
Support | 5 | 4.3 | 4.6 | 4.8 |
Motion Isolation | 3 | 4.2 | 3.8 | 3.2 |
Cooling | 4 | 3.7 | 4 | 4.3 |
Bounce | 4 | 3.6 | 4.2 | 4.8 |
Edge Support | 5 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 |
Couples | 4 | 3.6 | 3.8 | 4 |
Who Should Buy An Innerspring Mattress?
Innerspring beds can work well for all types of sleepers. Traditional spring mattresses are best suited for average to heavy-set people. These beds are typically firmer, so they can keep these sleepers well-supported. Lightweight individuals will likely prefer the hybrid version since these come with softer comfort layers to provide more cushioning. That being said, people who carry significantly more weight may opt for a hybrid because the additional foams can provide enhanced support and prevent them from sinking through the layers down into the coils.
Depending on what position you sleep in, certain types of innerspring mattresses will perform better or worse for you. For stomach and back sleepers, it is recommended that you have a strong core support system to maintain optimal alignment of the spine. Therefore, pocket coils, which help spread weight evenly on the bed, are a good choice if you fall into this category.
Side sleepers can do well with a hybrid innerspring mattress like the Helix Midnight. You still need support from a coil core, but a top layer can provide a more comfortable, pressure-relieving surface.
Who Shouldn’t Buy An Innerspring Mattress?
An innerspring mattress should be good for most people, but there are a few factors to consider before buying one. First, most innerspring beds can’t handle too much weight, which may be a problem for heavier sleepers or if you sleep with a partner. The limited motion isolation spring mattresses have is also a drawback for many couples.
Another thing to consider is the weight of the mattress itself. These have steel coils that weigh more, so carrying them may be difficult unless you have someone to help you. Finally, people with spine and lower back problems may need more support than an innerspring bed can provide. I recommend taking a look at our best mattresses for back pain.
Best Innerspring Mattress FAQs
How often should I replace an innerspring mattress?
An innerspring mattress can last you up to seven years or so, depending on the quality and type of the coils within it. Lower-gauge coils tend to have a longer lifespan than higher-gauge ones due to their thicker construction.
However, the best indicator that it’s time to replace your mattress won’t be the number of years you’ve owned it. Instead, pay attention to the feel of your bed, and note when it begins to sag or lose its bounce.
Do you need a box spring for an innerspring mattress?
Most innerspring mattresses that you can order online today don’t need a box spring. They’re designed to provide enough support on their own, often with the help of sturdy bases and foam layers.
However, more traditional innerspring mattresses with thinner designs may need a box spring underneath. Always check the instructions that come with your bed to see if it’s meant to be placed on top of a box spring.
Can you flip an innerspring mattress?
Most innerspring mattresses aren’t designed to be flipped. However, this depends on the construction of the specific mattress you’re interested in. If the structure has the same layers when turned upside down, it’ll likely perform the same when flipped. If not, the bed may not operate correctly if you flip it. Some manufacturers create dual-sided beds that have a softer firmness on one side and a firmer feel on the other. Ensure you check your mattress specifications from the manufacturer before you do any flipping. All beds can be rotated, though, if you’re looking to increase mattress longevity.
How many coils should a mattress have?
A full-size mattress should have at least 300 coils, a queen-size mattress should have at least 375–400 coils, and a king-size mattress should have at least 450–480 coils. These coil numbers are the bare minimum for a reliable mattress—you’ll commonly see high-quality mattresses on the market with more than 1,000 coils.
Keep in mind that coil count isn’t the whole story. Coil type and gauge also have an impact on the support, feel, and longevity of your bed. If one mattress has fewer coils than another, those coils might be thicker (with a lower gauge) and therefore compensate for the difference.
What is the best innerspring mattress without memory foam?
An innerspring mattress with memory foam is essentially a hybrid mattress. If you want a true innerspring, be sure to make sure the mattress is called an “innerspring” versus a hybrid and check the manufacturer’s materials listed. Most innersprings will include some type of softer layer on top, though it may not be memory foam–the same is true for hybrids. For more information on the subject, check out our article on innersprings versus hybrids.
Why do hotels use innerspring mattresses?
Hotels likely use innerspring mattresses due to their sturdy construction that will last long, keeping up the support and comfort as they keep up with guest demand. A high-quality innerspring bed can feel luxurious for most, especially if it features a pillow-top. If you’re curious about what mattresses hotels use, check out our best hotel mattress page.
Are innerspring and coil mattresses the same?
All innerspring mattresses have coils, but not all coil mattresses are innersprings. A coil mattress can be topped off with memory foam, latex, or some other combination of comfort materials–and usually multiple layers of them. An innerspring usually only has a thin layer covering the springs.
Which is better: innerspring or pocket coil?
Pocketed coils in an innerspring unit allow for coils to respond individually, as opposed to connected coils, which may respond all at once. Therefore, pocketed coils contribute to motion isolation, AKA if you feel your partner or pet’s movements from the other side of the mattress. Whether that makes them better than traditional springs is up to you!
Conclusion
Innerspring mattresses are the traditional choice and are still widely popular today. They provide support, bounce, and breathability in their sturdy construction.
There are many factors to consider when choosing the best innerspring mattress, including spring design, coil count, and coil gauge. These all contribute to how durable, soft, or firm it is. There are many models to choose from, which can be frustrating when you are trying to select a mattress, but it also means that there should be one that will suit your needs.
Hopefully, our how-to-buy guide has cleared up some of the mattress-related mysteries that were on your mind before you read this article.
Compare Prices of Our Top Innerspring Mattresses
Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen Size) | Review |
Saatva Classic | Editor’s Pick | $1,995 | Saatva Classic Mattress Review |
Helix Midnight | Side Sleepers | $1,332 | Helix Midnight Mattress Review |
Emma Hybrid Comfort | Budget | $1,199 | Emma Hybrid Comfort Mattress Review |
WinkBed | Back Pain | $1,799 | Winkbed Mattress Review |
Nolah Evolution | Luxury | $2,299 | Nolah Evolution Mattress Review |
Titan Plus Luxe | Heavy People | $1,599 | Titan Plus Luxe Mattress Review |
Bear Elite Hybrid | Cooling | $2,305 | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Review |
Signature Hybrid | Couples | $1,249 | Signature Hybrid Mattress Review |
Plank Firm Luxe | Firm | $1,072.40 | Plank Firm Luxe Mattress Review |
Birch Natural | Organic | $1,799 | Birch Natural Mattress Review |
Julia Forbes
Lead Product Tester
About Author
Julia is the Lead Reviewer at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.
Stomach Sleeper
Resources:
- Get Holistic Health. (2012). How an Innerspring Mattress Benefits Your Health. Retrieved from the web on May 15th, 2017.
- Hawks, Leona K. (1987). Selecting an Innerspring Mattress. Retrieved from the web on May 15th, 2017.
- Zamosky, Lisa. How to Pick Your Perfect Mattress. Retrieved from the web on May 15th, 2017.