Limiting & Stopping Motion Transfer in Bed?

Hi Michelle,

Thanks for getting in touch for mattress advice to reduce motion transfer in bed.

Transference is when a mattress sends a ripple or echo of movement from one side to the other. Usually causing issues with light sleepers who wake up as the mattress shakes when a partner moves or rolls over. It can be a real problem for some sleepers leading to nights of restless awkward sleep. The good news is there is a solution!

The best way to reduce transference is with a zip and link pocket sprung mattress. Pocket springs are ideal in limiting movement and transference during the night as each one acts independently.

In order of mattress support units in order of worst the best here are the options for limiting transference:

1. Cage sprung mattresses (bouncy with a huge echo of transference)
2. Memory foam mattresses (limits transference but solid one-piece support can have a subtle echo)
3. Synthetic encased Pocket Springs (Limits transference significantly)
4. Calico encased hand tied pocket springs (Greatly reduces transference)

Calico pocket springs transference level is the lowest as the pockets they are stitched into are flexible, breathable and hand stitched whereas synthetic spunbond springs have their pockets glued together which can increase any echo from neighbouring springs.

Zip and links reducing movement

Zip and link mattresses are particularly effective at reducing transference to an almost zero level. This is because the mattress is split into two halves and uses a recessed zip in the middle the join them. When matched with calico pocket springs you have a mattress with minimal transference. As each side is separate this is almost zero as when one sleeper moves there's no direct connection between the two mattress spring support units.

In particular, zip and links are always preferable in a superking size mattress for two reasons.

1. Zip and links make turning large mattresses manageable and far easier
2. They help provide central support to such a large mattress. Superkings can suffer from central settlement inconsistencies (this is the part of the mattress you rarely sleep in so can often settle far slower than the sides).

We hope that helps and if you have any more mattress related questions please get back in touch on info@localhost or 0161 437 4419.

Sleep well
John & Ryan