Memory Foam Vs. Spring Mattresses

Memory foam or spring, it’s one of the most common questions mattress shoppers face, and it’s a smart one to ask. Both mattress types have real strengths, and the right choice depends on how you sleep, what you value in a bed, and how much you want to spend.

In this guide, we break down exactly how memory foam and spring mattresses compare, so you can shop at any Mattress Outlet location, or online, knowing which type fits your sleep style and your budget.

What is a Memory Foam Mattress?

Created by NASA and once only available for astronauts, memory foam mattresses hit the market in the 1960s.

This memory foam consists of polyurethane foam and acts like a sponge, trapping air in small cavities. This is what makes it moldable to your body position. When you lay on it, it molds to your shape. Then, when you get up, it goes back to its natural state.

Memory foam is dense, but it is also very durable. In addition, memory foam mattresses are very comfortable and provide relief from pressure points.

Some of the best features of a memory foam mattress include:

• It can relieve the pressure on your bones and joints.
• The ability of the bed to mold to the sleeper’s shape makes it more comfortable.
• If you’re sleeping with someone else, it absorbs the movements of the other person, so your sleep is less disturbed.
• It provides support for your neck, back, hips, and shoulders.

On the other hand, some people find that memory foam mattresses tend to sag over time, are heavy, and frequently smell because chemicals are used in making them.

When shopping for a memory foam mattress, you’ll find three types:

• A traditional memory foam mattress is made with polyurethane, traps heat, and molds to your body. Sometimes people may find these hot.
• An open-cell foam mattress has all the same attributes but a different internal structure. It has an open cell to improve air movement, making the mattress cooler and fluffier.
• A gel memory foam mattress has gel pods that are added to the memory foam. Or, it has gel on the top for a comfort layer. You’ll find these mattresses are bouncy, yet they also “bounce” back into shape. They often have more features than the previous two.

What is a Spring Mattress?

This is the type of mattress you may be most familiar with. You may have heard them called innerspring mattresses as well. They are comfortable and supportive for sleepers who have lower back issues. Also, heavier people may find them better because they have more support than a memory foam mattress. Stomach and back sleepers generally like spring mattresses.

Some of the best features of a spring mattress include:

• They are supportive of back sleepers.
• Spring mattresses often cost less than memory foam mattresses.
• They have superior edge support.
• They are bouncy.
• Because of the coils, they provide good circulation.

On the other hand, spring mattresses can be noisy, and you may feel co-sleepers motion. These mattresses can also sag over time and wear out quickly.

Like memory foam mattresses, you’ll find several different types of spring mattresses:

• Offset coils are in an hourglass shape. They conform to your body and are stiff and durable. These are high-end spring mattresses.
• Pocket coils are individual springs that are covered with a fabric cover. Each coil functions on its own and conforms to body pressure on its own. These coils also separate the motion of other sleepers. These mattresses are often the most expensive spring mattresses.
• Continuous coils twist into s-shaped coils. This is a very supportive mattress, and it also isolates motion from co-sleepers.
• Bonnell coils are also an hourglass shape and are often the cheapest and help your body settle in once you lay down.

Similarities and Differences

Both of these mattress types are available in different firmness levels. However, you will generally find that innerspring mattresses are slightly firmer.

Regarding motion isolation, memory foam beds are generally better than spring mattresses. Yet, if you choose a spring mattress with individually pocketed coils, you’ll find more motion isolation.

Generally, memory foam mattresses provide a hotter sleep than spring mattresses. If you find one with gel, memory foam can be cool.

Both mattresses are similar when it comes to sleeping positions and provide for them all. Of course, your sleeping position should determine your firmness level, but you can be happy on either mattress.

Spring mattresses are often more durable, but memory foam can still be stable. Both types will last seven to 10 years. For price considerations, you can find mattresses from budget to luxury for both types.

Memory Foam vs. Spring: Quick Comparison

Not sure which is right for you? Here’s a side-by-side look at the key differences:

Find the Right Mattress at Mattress Outlet

You have a myriad of options when it comes to choosing a new mattress. While it may seem complicated, you are now armed with the information you need when comparing memory foam and spring mattresses.

They both have advantages as well as disadvantages. It depends on your sleep style, your needs, and your budget. We are happy to help you wade through your options and choose the best mattress for you.

Memory Foam vs. Spring Mattress FAQs

Q: Is memory foam or spring better for back pain?
It depends on your sleep position and preference. Memory foam can provide excellent pressure relief and spinal alignment for side and back sleepers. Spring mattresses with pocket coils can also be supportive, especially for back and stomach sleepers who need a firmer feel.

Q: Do spring mattresses sleep cooler than memory foam?
Generally, yes. The open coil structure of spring mattresses allows for more airflow. Traditional memory foam can retain heat, but gel-infused and open-cell memory foam options are designed to sleep much cooler.

Q: Which mattress type is better for couples?
Memory foam is typically better for couples because it excels at motion isolation, meaning one partner’s movements are less likely to disturb the other. Spring mattresses with individually pocketed coils can also reduce motion transfer.

Q: Are spring mattresses cheaper than memory foam?
Entry-level spring mattresses are often more affordable, but both types are available across a wide range of price points. At Mattress Outlet, you’ll find quality options in both categories without the department store markup.