When shopping for a new mattress, understanding the technology and materials that go into its construction can be crucial in making an informed decision. Among the various types available, pocket sprung mattresses stand out due to their unique structure and benefits. These mattresses are made from individual springs, each encased in its own fabric wire pocket, allowing them to move independently. This design offers superior support by contouring to the body's shape more effectively than traditional spring systems.
In this blog post, we'll delve into the different types of pocket springs, their incorporation into mattresses, and how they cater to specific needs such as back pain relief, bariatric support, and overall comfort.
What are Pocket Sprung Mattresses?
Pocket sprung mattresses are known for their ability to provide both support and comfort by isolating movement and enhancing sleep quality. Each spring operates independently, which means that movement on one part of the bed does not cause ripples of motion across the entire mattress. This feature is particularly beneficial for couples or restless sleepers.
Product: Ambassador 2000 Mattress
Types of Pocket Springs
-
Standard Pocket Springs: These are the most common type of pocket springs found in many mattresses. They typically range in number from 600 to 2000 springs in a king size mattress. The more springs, the better the support and contouring.
-
Mini Pocket Springs: Smaller and lighter than standard springs, mini pocket springs are often used in layers to create a more responsive mattress. They can also be used nearer to the surface for a softer feel.
-
High-count Pocket Springs: Mattresses with a high spring count, such as 3000 pocket sprung mattresses or even up to 5000 pocket springs and beyond, offer more precise support and are often considered premium options due to simply more materials going into the manufacturing of the mattress.
How Pocket Springs are Incorporated into Mattresses
The arrangement and layering of pocket springs can vary significantly between mattresses. Higher-end models might feature multiple layers of different types of springs, including a base layer of standard springs topped with a layer of mini springs. This configuration allows for a supportive base with a plusher, more responsive top layer, enhancing comfort without sacrificing support.
Manufacturers might also combine pocket springs with other materials such as memory foam, latex, or gel to target specific needs and preferences. These hybrid designs leverage the strengths of both materials to provide optimal comfort and support.
Understanding Spring Count Measurement in Mattresses
When evaluating the quality and support of a pocket sprung mattress, one of the most crucial factors to consider is the spring count. However, it's important to understand how this measurement is standardized across different mattress sizes. Typically, the industry standard for quoting spring counts is based on a king size mattress. This standardization helps provide a consistent benchmark for comparing different mattresses.
Why King Size?
A UK king size mattress, measuring usually around 150cm wide by 200cm long, offers a sizable area that serves well for establishing a base measurement. Manufacturers use this size as a reference because it is one of the most popular and widely purchased mattress sizes. By standardizing spring counts to a king size, manufacturers ensure that consumers can make more accurate comparisons between models and brands, even if they ultimately purchase a different size.
For instance, if a mattress advertises a spring count of 2000 based on a king size, a queen size mattress of the same model would naturally have fewer springs due to its smaller dimensions, but the quality and spacing of the springs remain designed to deliver similar support and comfort proportionally adjusted for its size.
This standardization is crucial for consumers to understand as it impacts the performance and support level expected from the mattress, regardless of its size. Knowing this can guide consumers in making more informed decisions, ensuring they choose a mattress that meets their specific comfort and support needs.
Product: Pemberley 12500 Pocket Sprung Mattress
Suitability of Different Pocket Springs for Different Needs
For Back Pain
People suffering from back pain require a mattress that offers both support and pressure relief. A 2000 pocket sprung mattress can be highly effective for back pain sufferers. The high number of springs allows the mattress to more accurately conform to the body's contours, supporting the spine's natural alignment and distributing weight evenly. This reduces pressure points and can significantly improve sleep quality.
For Bariatric Use
Bariatric mattresses are designed to support heavier weights and provide extra durability. A common misconception is that the higher pocket sprung count the more supportive the mattress may be. However as previously explained above, 5000 pocket sprung mattresses (for example) feature smaller tablet springs which are thinner and subsequently weaker. A thicker sprung 2000 pocket mattress would be the more ideal solution such as The Chester mattress models from Endurance Beds. These mattresses typically feature thicker wires and more robust frame to withstand and distribute greater weights.
For General Comfort
For those primarily seeking comfort, a pocket sprung mattress king size could be the ideal choice, especially if it combines a high count of mini pocket springs with a plush top layer. The king size provides ample space, and the high count of individually wrapped springs ensures that the mattress adjusts to the sleeper's body, providing a luxurious feel and excellent support.
Conclusion
