Foam vs Spring Mattress: How to Choose the Best Mattress Type

Overview of Foam and Spring Mattresses

When shopping for a new mattress, two of the most popular options on the market are foam and spring mattresses. Both have their own unique benefits and downsides to consider.

Foam mattresses, including memory foam, latex foam and polyfoam, are best known for their close conforming properties, pressure relieving abilities, and motion isolation. However, some sleepers find they sleep too hot.

On the other hand, spring mattresses offer a more traditional innerspring feel with bounce, breathability, and strong edge support. However, they tend to have less motion isolation than foam.

At Mattress To Door, we offer a wide selection of quality foam, spring, and hybrid mattresses to suit different needs and preferences. Our foam mattresses like the Cozy and Spinal Care use memory foam and latex layers to cradle sleepers. Our spring mattresses like the Orthocare and Euro Plush use pocketed coils for bounce and airflow.

Below we'll take a closer look at the major differences between foam and spring mattresses to help you select the right option for your sleep style and body.

What is a Foam Mattress?

Foam mattresses are constructed using various types of foam in their comfort and support layers, including memory foam, latex foam, and polyfoam. The foam layers work to cushion pressure points and closely conform to the sleeper's body shape for customized comfort and support.

Some of the most popular all-foam mattresses from Mattress To Door include:

• The Cozy - This mattress uses a 4-inch layer of memory foam in the comfort layer to provide close contouring and pressure relief.
  
• The Spinal Care - This mattress has a 3-inch latex foam comfort layer to cushion the body while resisting sagging.
  

Memory foam is known for its ability to soften and conform closely to the sleeper's curves when warm. This allows it to absorb motion and relieve pressure very well.

Latex foam offers contouring ability while also providing more resilience and bounce compared to memory foam. Natural latex foam comes from the sap of the rubber tree.

Benefits of Foam Mattresses

There are several key benefits that make foam mattresses a top choice for many sleepers:

• Excellent motion isolation - The foam absorbs movement between sleep partners to prevent disruptions.
  
• Pressure relieving - Foam conforms tightly to cushion joints and curves that need extra padding.
  
• Good for side sleepers - Side sleepers need pressure relief in the shoulders and hips which foam provides.
  
• Low noise - Foam mattresses are virtually silent unlike coil mattresses.
  

Drawbacks of Foam Mattresses

The main drawbacks of foam mattresses include:

• Heat retention - Foam tends to sleep hot, especially solid memory foam. Newer foams like gel foam or copper foam help combat heat buildup.
  
• Less bouncy - Foam has less springiness than coil mattresses. However, latex foam is more buoyant than memory foam.
  
• Weak edge support - Foam compresses down under body weight so the edges are less supportive for sitting.
  
• Off-gassing - Some new foam mattresses have an initial odor from manufacturing that fades over time.
  

What is a Spring Mattress?

Spring mattresses contain an inner support core made up of metal coils or springs. The spring system provides bounce, support, structure and airflow to the mattress.

Popular types of coil systems include:

• Bonnell coils - Hourglass shaped coils that are knotted together. Provides a firm feel.
  
• Offset/Continuous coils - Hourglass coils attached with helical lacing wire. More conforming than Bonnell coils.
  
• Pocketed/Wrapped coils - Individual coils wrapped in fabric for motion isolation. Provides a more contouring feel.
  

Mattress To Door's spring mattresses like the Orthocare and Euro Plush use premium pocketed coil systems for reduced motion transfer.

Benefits of Spring Mattresses

There are several reasons spring mattresses have enduring popularity:

• Increased airflow - The space between the coils allows more air circulation to keep the surface cool.
  
• Good edge support - The perimeter coils reinforce the edges so you can sit comfortably on the side.
  
• Bouncy, responsive - Coil systems are very responsive and have more "lift" making it easy to switch positions.
  
• Durable - Quality innerspring mattresses can last over 7 years on average which makes them a long-term investment.
  
• Variety of firmness options - Different coil gauges and coil counts allow manufacturers to fine tune the firmness.
  

Drawbacks of Spring Mattresses

Some potential cons associated with spring mattresses include:

• Motion transfer - The coils transfer movement more than foam mattresses. However, pocketed coils isolate motion better than interconnected coils.
  
• Noise potential - Coils may squeak or make noise especially with age and use over time. Newer steel alloys help reduce noise issues.
  
• Less pressure relief - Coils don't conform as closely to the body's natural curves compared to foam or latex. However, pillow tops and euro tops can make up for this.
  
• Coil breakage - Continuous use over time can lead to damage and loss of support requiring mattress replacement. Higher quality coils are more durable.
  

Key Differences Between Foam and Spring Mattresses

Below we summarize some of the major differences between foam mattresses and spring mattresses when it comes to temperature regulation, motion isolation, pressure relief, cost, durability, and other performance factors.

Performance Factor	Foam Mattresses	Spring Mattresses
Temperature Regulation	Tends to retain heat, especially solid memory foam. Advanced cooling foams help with heat dissipation and airflow.	Innerspring design promotes more airflow to keep surface cooler.
Motion Isolation	Excellent at absorbing movement between sleep partners. Limited partner disturbances.	More motion transfer as springs move individually. Pocket coils isolate motion better than interconnected coils.
Responsiveness	Less bouncy and springy. Changing positions requires more effort. Latex is more responsive than memory foam.	Very bouncy and makes it easy to change positions. Good for combination sleepers.
Pressure Relief	Conforms closely to cushion joints, shoulders and hips. Good for side sleepers.	Less ability to conform tightly to body's curves. May need added cushioning layers.
Noise	Virtually silent. No sounds from foam.	Potential for squeaking and noise from coils, especially over time.
Durability	Average of 6-8 years with quality foams.	Innersprings can last over 7 years on average. Pocket coils more durable than lower-gauge interconnected coils.
Maintenance	Little required. Rotate occasionally.	Rotate regularly to evenly distribute wear and improve durability.
Cost	Foam mattresses are generally cheaper than hybrids or innersprings. Prices range from $249 to $999 at Mattress To Door.	More expensive than foam on average. Prices range from $189 to $2499 for our spring mattresses.

At Mattress To Door, our team can help explain these key differences and recommend the right mattress for your preferences as either a foam, spring, or hybrid mattress. We're here to provide the ultimate sleep solution tailored just for you.

How Sleeping Position Affects Your Choice

Your preferred sleeping position is an important factor when selecting between a foam mattress and spring mattress. Let's see how each position is affected:

For side sleepers, foam mattresses tend to be the better choice for pressure relief. The foam cushions the shoulders and hips to align the spine. Memory foam and latex contour closely while relieving pressure points along the side of the body.

For back sleepers, spring mattresses may offer more lumbar support for spinal alignment, especially for those with back pain. The coils provide a gently raised backrest with an even surface. Added cushioning layers provide pressure relief for the lower back.

For stomach sleepers, a spring mattress may be preferable to avoid the hips sinking into the mattress, which can strain the back. The firmer spring support keeps the spine on an even plane. Stomach sleepers generally need a firmer mattress as well.

No matter your preferred position, Mattress To Door has a foam, spring, or hybrid mattress to provide personalized comfort and support all through the night.

Choosing the Best Mattress for You

When deciding between foam and spring mattresses, there are a few key factors to keep in mind as you choose the best mattress for your sleep needs:

• Sleep style - Your preferred sleep position and if you change positions or remain still through the night. Different positions need different support.
  
  
• Body type - Your height, weight, and body shape. Different body types exert different pressures on a mattress.
  
• Firmness preference - Whether you prefer a soft, firm, or medium feel. This influences mattress construction.
  
• Pain issues - If you suffer from back, hip, or shoulder pain that needs pressure relief.
  
• Sleeping conditions - If you sleep hot, have a partner, etc. This affects options like cooling foams or motion isolation needs.
  
• Budget - Setting a budget narrows options. Foam mattresses start at $249 at Mattress To Door while hybrids cost more.
  

Hybrid mattresses offer a great middle ground combining foam comfort layers with spring support cores. This allows hybrids to isolate motion like foam while having edge support and airflow from springs. Popular hybrids from Mattress To Door include the Spine Comfort, Prelude, and Levitate Cloud.

Mattress To Door's Top Mattress Recommendations

Based on your needs identified above, below are some of Mattress To Door's top recommended mattresses in Canada for both foam and spring models:

Best Foam Mattresses

• Spinal Care - Provides cushioning from 3" latex foam - $249
• Cozy - Conforming support from 4" memory foam - $299
• Maya - Cooling and pressure relief from gel foam - $449

Best Spring Mattresses

• Orthocare - Firm support from 6" pocket coils - $189
• Euro Plush - Plush feel from 7" pocket coils - $249
• 1000 Series - Medium feel and lumbar support - $950

Best Hybrid Mattresses

• Daisy - Cooling memory foam and pocket coils - $549
• Levitate Cloud - Pressure relief with edge support - $799
• Harmony Plush Pillow Top - Plush feel and conforming foam - $1100

At Mattress To Door, we want to make finding your perfect mattress an easy and enjoyable experience. Contact us today to learn more about our mattress selection and get expert recommendations tailored to your needs and sleep preferences.

Choosing Between Memory Foam and Spring Mattresses

When it comes to memory foam mattresses vs spring mattresses, there are some key similarities and differences to consider that can help guide your decision between these two popular mattress types.

Memory foam mattresses contain at least one layer of viscoelastic memory foam in their construction. This material was originally developed by NASA to cushion astronauts during lift-off. Traditional memory foam mattresses are prized for their ability to conform closely to the body and relieve pressure points. However, some sleepers find they retain more heat.

Spring mattresses provide a more traditional innerspring feel with coils or springs making up their support core. Spring mattresses have been around for decades and offer benefits like responsiveness and bounce. Different systems like open coil springs or encased pocket coil springs impact the mattress performance.

When choosing between memory foam and spring mattresses, factors like your sleep position, temperature preferences, pain issues, and budget should be taken into account. Testing out mattresses during sleep trials is also recommended to determine which feel best suits your needs.

At Mattress To Door, we offer both high-quality memory foam mattresses as well as spring and foam hybrid mattresses to provide the benefits of both materials. Our sleep experts can help you determine whether memory foam or springs are the best fit for your perfect night's sleep.

Finding the Right Firmness Level and Features for Your New Mattress

When choosing the right mattress, the firmness level and specific features are key considerations that can make a big difference in comfort and support.

Most sleepers do best with a medium-firm mattress that provides a balance of contouring softness and sturdy support. However, your preferred firmness depends on factors like your weight, sleep position, and if you have back pain issues. Testing different firmness levels is advised.

In terms of features, options like mattress toppers, cooling mattresses with special foams or gel infusions, high-density foam, and zoned support can all enhance the mattress performance. Open-cell memory foam and gel memory foam also provide advanced pressure relief and heat dissipation.

Mattress manufacturers today offer many innovative technologies and customizations so you can find a mattress tailored to your preferences. At Mattress To Door, our mattress experts are available to guide you through all the options to find your ideal new mattress for restful sleep. Start your search today!

Conclusion and Key Takeaways on Choosing Foam vs Spring Mattress

When it comes to foam vs spring mattresses, both options have their own pros and cons and there is no universally "best" choice. The right mattress comes down to your sleeping needs, preferences, and budget.

Here are some key tips to recap when choosing between foam and spring mattresses:

• Foam mattresses excel at pressure relief and motion isolation but tend to sleep hotter. Latex foam is more breathable than memory foam.
  
• Spring mattresses provide more airflow, bounce, and edge support but have less motion isolation. Pocketed coils isolate motion better than interconnected coils.
  
• Consider how your sleep position, body type, and health issues impact support needs when choosing foam or spring.
  
• Hybrids combine the benefits of foam and springs for a versatile mattress. Mattress To Door offers top-rated hybrids like the Levitate Cloud.
  
• Narrow options by setting your ideal budget and firmness. Foam starts at just $249 at Mattress To Door.
  
• Take advantage of sleep trials and warranties to make sure your new mattress provides the comfort and support you need. Mattress To Door offers 90-night trials.
  

The team at Mattress To Door is happy to make personalized recommendations and guide you through choosing the perfect mattress for your best night's sleep, whether it be foam, spring, or hybrid. Reach out today to start your mattress search off right!