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February 2019

Why You Need to Replace Coil Springs With Pocket Springs

At John Ryan, we know that buying a new mattress is a big decision and that you need the right information to hand in order to make the most informed choice. Otherwise, it’s likely you’ll end up regretting your mattress purchase.

This is why you should never be afraid to ask questions, as you deserve to know why a certain mattress is right for you. Whether it’s a Luxury Natural Fibre mattress you’re after, or a Luxury Zip & Link mattress that combines two different spring tensions; our expert team is here to give you the answers you need. We’ve compared and discussed thousands of mattresses over the years with our expert ‘mattress geek’ knowledge which we’ve shared on our site.

One of the most common questions we get asked is – “What’s the difference between coil springs and pocket springs?” So, to help you choose the right mattress, we’ve put together a quick guide to explain…

The basics of Open coil springs

Cage sprung open coil unit storage

Essentially mattresses that contain open coil springs are the most common, mass-produced and low production value mattresses on the market. This applies to any cage sprung, continuous coil and open coil mattresses. They consist of an inter-connected spring system using massive lengths of connected wire, which is not only cheaply made, it’s uncomfortable and one of the most useless support units available.

These coil spring mattresses require very little skill to make, and simply rely on a machine to manufacture them by spitting out these huge one piece springs. You won’t find any finely tuned hand side stitching here, hand tying of springs or any sort of quality craftsmanship when it comes to these support units. They are made to satisfy the cheap entry level mattresses, though you would be surprised how many mid range mattresses are sneakily still using them.

Basically, coil springs refer to a type of support unit made of a continuous piece of wire, which is coiled to create a huge set of joined crude springs. The one-size-fits-all approach to this design is evident. Although some coil href=”https://johnryanbydesign.co.uk/understanding-beds/question/we-have-purchased-a-yanis-ultimate-80-talalay-latex-topper-to-add-to-our-medium-firm-pocket-sprung-mattress-the-main-reason-for-buying-was-to-add-a-comfort-layer-which-also-gives-support-i-am-now-con/”>sprung mattresses have perimeter support added, such as a flat steel frame around the outside of the mattress to prevent it from sinking; this is just the best of a really bad bunch.

Why coil springs aren’t suitable

Coil springs simply won’t be able to accommodate you if you’re a heavier sleeper, or even if you sleep with a partner, as they can’t handle differently weighted sleepers. They will react to the heaviest sleeper and the lighter sleeper will inevitably then roll towards the other sleeper. We would argue that a simple solid slab of foam would actually be able to accommodate you better, for the amount of money these mattresses would cost you.

Again, because of the one-size-fits-all build of these coil spring support units, you’ll soon find that support varies widely across the whole mattress. They can often be significantly softer around the edges and even more so in the middle. This means settlement will occur far faster and the whole mattress will quickly become misshapen as soon as one part of it fails or compresses.

The crude design and inconsistent support give mattresses with coil springs a very short shelf life. Plus, even if they come with generous layers of polyester, this will only temporarily hide any issues from you. You might feel fairly comfortable at first, but the minimal support unit will soon see you waking up with aches and pains once the softer fibres compress and sag.

Why pocket springs are superior

John Ryan Calico encased mattress springs

Pocket springs are better than coil springs in every way possible. This is mainly because each pocket spring is able to work independently to give you much more advanced support, thanks to each one being wrapped and separated by a breathable pocket of material.

Unlike a fixed coil sprung unit, which would just sink to the most pressured area, a pocket sprung mattress allows for various states of compression in each individual spring. They can effectively absorb every movement your body makes, and instantly react and adjust themselves. There will also be a reduced transference of movement between href=”https://johnryanbydesign.co.uk/understanding-beds/question/partner-sleep-disturbance-issues-zip-link/”>sleepers, so if you sleep with a partner, then both of you will benefit from a more isolated tailored feeling of support. The result is less waking up if you’re next to a fidgety sleeper!

400;”>Pocket springs will effortlessly distribute your weight across the entire mattress, as each cushioned spring gently pushes against the contours of your body. They come in a variety of tensions and can even be used side by side for split tension mattresses. These can make enjoying a soothing sleep with a partner even easier, something which simply wouldn’t be possible with coil springs.

Yes, it’s true that cage sprung mattresses are cheap to buy, but considering some of them come in at a price of £300 plus, the cost justification for choosing one no longer holds any weight. If your current budget won’t allow for natural fibres, then our Origins Pocket 1500 from our Pocket Sprung Man Made range can offer you the minimum standard of comfort and support you should accept at this price point.

Why Calico Pocket Springs are the best mattress support system

If you’re really looking for the best mattress support system then the winner in this category above all others is the Calico Pocket Spring. They are individually wrapped in natural breathable calico, which is a form of cotton. These are even more responsive than standard spun bond pocket springs and are then hand tied together by a skilled craftsman or woman. They are more breathable and are the Rolls Royce of mattress springs.

Hand Stitching calico springs up close
Pocket Springs allow for independent movement during the night

Our Artisan Naturals contains 85% Natural Fibres and they also utilise Calico Pocket Springs. These are assembled completely by hand into mattress size units, and strung together so that the supportive and reactive springs can work completely independent of each other. Leaving you feeling gently cradled by the quality comfort layers as you drift off into a dreamy slumber, each and every night.

Artisan naturals pocket sprung mattress
Our Artisan Naturals Features Calico Encased Vanadium Coated Pocket Springs and Natural Fibres

You should always know exactly what you’re getting before making a new mattress decision, so ask any questions you need to, so that you’re confident in your purchase.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our expert team today on 0161 437 4419.

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