Choosing a pocket-spring mattress shouldn't be done on a whim. Unless you're willing to sacrifice comfort for financial reasons, you must take certain criteria into account when making your choice. These include, primarily: the number of springs, the filling, the number of comfort zones, the dimensions, the type of protection, and any labels and certifications.
The number of springs
The number of springs determines the quality of the mattress and the level of comfort the sleeper experiences on a daily basis. However, the number of springs varies depending on the mattress size. A standard double mattress contains between 600 and 1,200 springs, while a standard single mattress typically has between 300 and 500 springs. Queen-size and king-size models can have up to 2,000 springs.
Generally speaking, it’s believed that the more springs a mattress has, the higher its quality. A low-cost model usually has fewer springs. However, you don’t have to break the bank to buy a king-size mattress. To ensure comfort in a pocket-spring mattress, make sure to choose a model with a sufficient number of springs for each size category.
The Filling
The padding prevents the sleeper from coming into direct contact with the springs. As such, it is an important factor to consider when choosing a pocket-spring mattress. However, it is actually the composition of the padding that makes all the difference when it comes to sleeping comfort.
Depending on whether the sleeper prefers a soft, enveloping, or firm feel, the filling will consist of either synthetic or natural materials. It’s best to choose natural materials (wool, cotton, bamboo, etc.), which ensure optimal comfort every day.
The choice of filling material also depends on the environment (humidity, heat, etc.) and the sleeper’s profile (back problems, excessive sweating, allergies, etc.). Natural materials, such as cotton or bamboo, are highly sought after because they offer thermoregulatory and moisture-wicking properties. Sleepers can also choose a summer/winter mattress with different fillings on each side.
The number of comfort zones
Pocket-spring mattresses offer 3, 5, and 7 comfort zones. A greater number of comfort zones means a more ergonomic sleeping surface and broader support for different parts of the body. Models with 7 comfort zones therefore tend to provide greater comfort. While people suffering from back pain are the natural target audience, these mattresses can also be used for other purposes. However, it’s important to note that the more comfort zones a mattress has, the more expensive it is.
Dimensions
There are various sizes of pocket-spring mattresses available on the market. It’s important to choose the right mattress size to enjoy all the benefits this type of mattress has to offer. Otherwise, you won’t experience complete comfort.
Here are a few guidelines regarding the sizes of pocket-spring mattresses:
- For children: Choose the standard size single mattress, which is 90 x 190 cm, or a 70 x 190 cm model, which is more economical;
- For people under 1.70 meters tall: use a single mattress measuring 90 x 190 cm;
- For people taller than 1.70 m: choose a larger single mattress. The 100 x 200 cm models are suitable for larger individuals;
- For couples: a standard double mattress measuring 140 x 190 cm will certainly do the trick. For even greater comfort, they can opt for a queen-size (160 x 200 cm) or king-size (180 x 200 cm) mattress.
The type of protection
Most pocket-spring mattresses feature anti-dust mite, antibacterial, and anti-sweat treatments to limit—or even prevent—the growth of microorganisms inside the mattress and to reduce moisture. This allows the sleeper to enjoy optimal sleeping comfort in both summer and winter. Before making a purchase, be sure to check that the pocket-spring mattress does indeed have all of these protective features (or at least two of them).
In addition, some models have hypoallergenic properties. This is the case, for example, when the mattress cover is made of natural materials such as bamboo. This type of mattress is especially recommended for people who suffer from allergies of varying severity.
Labels and Certifications
Labels and other certifications in the bedding industry attest to the quality of mattresses. Some of these certifications are based on strict standards that ensure bedding products are durable and safe for the body. Examples include Oeko-Tex Standard 100, Belle Literie, and Belle Literie Excellence.
There are other factors to consider, such as firmness, density, the shape and diameter of the steel wire, and price. It’s up to the sleeper to make a choice based on their sleeping habits.
Ultimately, choosing a pocket-spring mattress depends on fairly technical criteria that require some knowledge of mattresses. However, when making a purchase, it’s most important to focus on how the mattress feels when you lie down, and you should definitely not hesitate to try out the mattress before making a decision.
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