What is a Pocket Sprung Mattress

There are many different mattress types to choose from and it can be rather overwhelming at times to know what mattress type is the right one for you when you’re on the lookout for a new one. Well we’re here to help.

In our latest guide we take a look at pocket sprung mattresses and all they have to offer, from their motion isolation technology to the adaptive body support they provide as you move throughout the night.

What Is A Pocket Sprung Mattress?

Pocket sprung mattresses contain hundreds or even thousands of individually wrapped springs/coils within the mattress. Unlike traditional bonnell spring mattresses, where the springs are all ‘open coil’ and interconnected via a continuous wire, the springs in pocket sprung mattresses are individually encased within separate fabric pockets. 

This technology allows each spring to move independently of one another and provide adaptive support to you as you move during your sleep. It also helps to minimise any motion transfer which could disturb your sleeping partner. 

Aspire 5000 Pocket Climate Cool Wool Pillowtop Mattress 4ft Small Double

What Are The Benefits Of A Pocket Sprung Mattress?

Adaptive Support

The individually encased pocket springs adapt and move to support your body as you move throughout the night. So no matter what position you sleep in or find yourself in throughout the night, the pocket springs will continue to provide you with the support you and your body needs throughout the night. 

As each spring compresses and decompresses as needed to adapt to your body type, it ensures the mattress contours to your body and provides you with support exactly where you need it.

Reduced Motion Transfer

As touched upon above, the technology within pocket sprung mattresses helps to reduce motion transfer when you or your sleeping partner moves throughout the night, reducing the likelihood of disturbing their sleep. Each individually wrapped spring absorbs your movement in the immediate area of the pressure being applied to it, leaving any pocket springs your body isn’t touching unaffected by your movement. 

Thus, pocket spring mattresses provide excellent motion isolation properties and help to prevent the ‘roll-together’ effect where movement is felt across the entire mattress, like on traditional mattress types such as bonnell spring mattresses

Pressure Relief

The unique construction of pocket sprung mattresses enables each individually encased pocket spring to provide targeted support where you need it the most, no matter how much you shift sleeping positions through the night. The springs help to distribute your body weight effectively which helps to prevent pressure buildup in commonly painful areas. Alongside this, the pocket springs also help to keep your spine aligned correctly which helps to reduce discomfort when lying in bed and upon awakening too. 

Temperature Regulation

Due to the gaps in-between each fabric encased pocket spring, these mattresses generally tend to be cooler than other types of mattresses. The gaps promote airflow throughout the mattress, helping to keep you cool and prevent overheating through the night. However there are elements that can increase heat absorption such as the presence of a memory foam ‘topper’ in the top layer of the mattress. 

Here at Aspire we have a range of pocket spring mattresses that utilise climate cool fabric which features carbon fibre strands within the weave of the fabric. This naturally cools the fabric, helping you to fall asleep comfortably if you tend to overheat during the night

Aspire Triple Layer Pro Hybrid Rolled Mattress 4ft Small Double

What Are The Disadvantages Of A Pocket Sprung Mattress?

Can Be Expensive

Due to the technology within the mattress, pocket sprung mattresses tend to be more expensive than some other types of mattresses. Especially when you opt for a mattress with a higher spring count, more comfort layers within it or a hybrid mattress that contains memory foam technology too

But here at Aspire Store you can take advantage of a double pocket spring mattress for under £200, including double sided pocket sprung mattresses that allow you to flip the mattress every three to six months as recommended to ensure even wear and maintain comfort levels. 

Memory Foam Mattresses Provide More Pressure Relief

Whilst pocket sprung mattresses do provide pressure point relief, memory foam mattresses generally do this better as they can mould even closer to your body’s contours. But the effectiveness of the pressure point relief does vary with the quality of the memory foam mattress. So if you don’t opt for a higher quality memory foam mattress, some pocket sprung mattresses may provide better pressure point relief, especially those with memory foam comfort layers.

If you’re unsure when comparing specific models once you’ve narrowed down your possible selections to a few mattresses, ask the manufacturers regarding the benefits of each. They should be able to help you make the best decision for your specific needs.

What Is A Pocket Spring Count?

It’s a common misconception that the pocket spring count refers to the number of individual pocket springs there are within the mattress itself. However, it’s actually always based on the number of pocket springs you’ll find in the king size mattress of that particular mattress model. So if you opt for a super king size mattress, it’ll have more springs than that and a double mattress would have less.  

How Many Pocket Springs Do I Need?

There’s no hard and fast rule when it comes to the number of pocket springs you should opt for when buying your new pocket sprung mattress. It always comes down to personal preference and in many cases you may not be able to feel and understand the difference between more or less pocket springs without experiencing it for yourself. 

Are More Pocket Springs Better?

More pocket springs aren’t necessarily better, however generally (up to a point), more pocket springs provides better body contouring performance and better motion isolation too. However after a while, more pocket springs will start to interfere with one another as there won’t be enough space for them to independently move and provide the support that fewer pocket springs could. 

There are many other aspects that affect how comfortable a pocket spring mattress will feel beyond the number of pocket springs, from the thickness of the springs and the type and size of the springs to the presence of other comfort layers and even your height and body weight. 

Generally aiming for at least 1000-2,000 pocket springs will provide most people with a comfortable, supportive sleep. However pocket spring mattresses with over 2000 pocket springs do provide better adaptive support qualities (up to a point) and often include even more luxurious, high quality comfort layers, upholstery and other materials too and the difference in feel and sleep quality is noticeable.

Are Pocket-Sprung Mattresses Firm?

Pocket spring mattresses much like other types of mattresses are available in a range of firmness levels from soft to extra firm, so no matter your firmness preference, you’re sure to find a pocket spring mattress that provides you with what you need. 

What Sleeping Positions Are Pocket Sprung Mattresses Suitable For?

Pocket sprung mattresses are suitable for all types of sleeping positions, so whether you like to sleep on your side, your front or your back, a pocket sprung mattress is a great choice. The key to making the right decision is choosing the right firmness level, spring count and considering the other materials that could be included within the construction of the mattress such as memory foam or latex. 

If you prefer a softer, plush feel and tend to sleep on your side, then selecting a softer mattress is probably the right choice. Whereas if you’re a back or stomach sleeper, a firmer mattress is generally the right decision.

Are Pocket Sprung Mattresses Good For A Bad Back?

The contouring support that the individual pocket springs provide makes pocket spring mattresses a great choice for bad back sufferers. They promote proper spinal alignment and distribute body weight evenly, which eases pressure point pain. The overall firmness of the mattress and the quality of the comfort layers within will have a big impact on how much your back pain will be eased though. 

Choosing a pocket sprung mattress that has low-quality comfort layers or doesn’t have enough pocket springs for your body size/weight and specific needs could actually worsen your bad back symptoms, which is the last thing you need. 

Are Pocket Sprung Mattresses Breathable?

Pocket-sprung mattresses are renowned for their excellent breathability and temperature regulation, making them a popular choice for those seeking comfortable and cool sleep.

The independent movement of the pocket springs contributes to the mattress breathability. As the springs respond to the body's contours, they create small gaps and spaces that facilitate air circulation helping to prevent heat buildup, helping to create a more comfortable temperature when you sleep.

How Long Do Pocket Sprung Mattresses Last?

Pocket-sprung mattresses can be a durable and long-lasting investment for a good night's sleep. On average, a well-maintained pocket-sprung mattress can last between 8 to 10 years.

The quality of the mattress is a major determining factor when it comes to its longevity. Quality pocket sprung mattresses, with features like thicker gauge springs and premium covering materials, tend to have a longer lifespan.

Proper care and maintenance are essential to maximising the lifespan of a pocket-sprung mattress. Using a mattress protector, regularly rotating the mattress (if it’s a double sided mattress) and following the manufacturer's cleaning guidelines can all help preserve the integrity of the springs, padding and overall quality of the mattress. Plus, it’s important that the mattress is supported on a sturdy and suitable bed frame to prevent premature sagging.

While the average lifespan of 8 to 10 years is a good general guideline, pocket-sprung mattresses can potentially last up to 12-15 years with diligent care. Paying attention to signs of wear, such as sagging or loss of support will keep your sleep as comfortable as the first night you slept on it for years to come.

Aspire Olivier Divan Bed Set in Plush Velvet

What Is The Best Bed Type For A Pocket Sprung Mattress?

Whilst most bed types are suitable to support a pocket sprung mattress and ensure you receive the brilliant benefits they bring, solid platform beds such as divan beds are best suited to pocket sprung mattresses as they fully support the entire bottom of the mattress, ensuring you receive the optimal support and experience pocket spring mattresses can provide. 

The only caveat when it comes to bed types are adjustable beds. If you opt for a framed pocket sprung mattress (mattress with a wire frame running around the top and bottom of the mattress, which provides extra stability and support), it won’t be suitable for adjustable beds as it won’t freely move with the bed. 

Explore Our Pocket Sprung Mattresses Today

Aspire's pocket-sprung mattresses come in a wide range of options to suit every sleeper's needs. Explore the Pocket+ 1000 Quilt-Top Value Mattress, a budget-friendly choice at under £100 that doesn't compromise on quality, featuring 1,000 individually wrapped springs for superior comfort and support.

For those who tend to get quite hot at night, our Aspire 3000 Pocket Climate Cool Wool Mattress is a great choice. Made with pure wool which has natural temperature regulation properties and featuring our high tech cooling fabric that helps to dissipate heat throughout the night, this mattress is perfect for anyone who prefers a fresh, cool sleeping experience. 

And for the ultimate indulgence, the Aspire 7000 Pocket Wool Cashmere and Silk Mattress is a true masterpiece. Crafted with a sumptuous blend of cashmere, wool, and silk, this mattress offers unparalleled comfort and breathability, ensuring you wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Regardless of your preferred firmness or sleeping position, Aspire's pocket-sprung mattresses are designed to provide the perfect balance of support and comfort. With a 5-year guarantee and free delivery, it's never been easier to invest in a mattress that will transform your sleep and your overall well-being.

So, what are you waiting for? Explore Aspire's exceptional range of pocket-sprung mattresses today and unlock the secret to countless nights of blissful sleep.