Pocket spring vs Latex mattresses: which one is the best bed?

Hi Kat,

Many thanks for your question asking about pocket spring and latex mattress models. Choosing the right mattress can be really tricky. Especially given all the sneaky ways in which retailers aim to confuse you until you submit to whichever ‘Bargain’ they throw at you.

As for your Habitat mattress were guessing it was a one sided foam mix mattress so 10 years is pretty good going. You’ve identified the issue with many synthetic foams like Hybrid and Memory foam which is life span. They often settle at a far faster rate and as you can’t turn many of them over all the wear happens in the same place night after night leading to lumps and bumps that never return to their original shape/position.

Let’s have a look at Pocket Sprung Vs Latex Mattresses.

What’s the difference in feel between a Pocket Sprung and Latex Mattress?

There are a few differences between the two mattresses but it’s mainly an issue of support and comfort.

• Pocket spring mattresses have a livelier more responsive feel to them
• Latex mattresses have a dense feeling of support to them, like a pushback sensation
• Pocket spring mattresses can be topped with a number of different fibres offering them very particular and specialist comfort layers
• Most quality latex mattresses use solid core latex ie one consistent piece. If not latex needs to be used in at least 5cm layers – ideally 6cm plus and combined with suitable fibres.
• Pocket spring tensions can be customised for your bodyweight
• Latex mattresses offer a more progressive slow sink support for a range of bodyweights
• Pocket spring natural fibre mattresses are far cooler than latex
• Latex can be warmer but is also very responsive to hips, shoulders or injuries that need exacting support

You’re right to take caution before jumping to a full latex mattress model. You will have noticed the difference between your old pillows and the latex one so at least you have a gauge. Latex mattresses really are a love or hate decisions, some people love the sink and support they offer. Others feel like they’re too supportive all over the body or get too warm.
However, there is a third option where the two materials are used in conjunction.

It’s also imperative you know exactly what type, density and blend of latex you’re buying. There’s plenty of synthetic latex using the guise of natural. You can find out how to avoid that here.

We have our Artisan Latex which is a two-sided hand made model that features latex and also 100% natural plant fibres. So maybe this is the perfect mix of the materials you’re looking for. More on that model below!

Different comfort preferences in a mattress?

It’s not possible to have one side firm in the upholstery and other side in a softer feel. The reason for this is that comfort layers need to be consistent even in a zip and link mattress to make sure the bed is the same height and compresses/settles uniformly on both sides.

A lot of people confuse the spring tension with the ‘feel of the bed’ which is wrong. The spring tensions based solely on your body weight and the comfort layers/upholstery then provide the ultimate feel of the bed.

You both require a 1.4 gauge pocket spring or up to a 70kg latex. Anything above this will be punishingly firm.

Spring Tension	Wire diameter (Gauge)	Weight Range
Soft	1.2mm	Bespoke Tension (Please Call)
Medium	1.4mm	Upto 16 stone
Firm	1.6mm	16 stone plus
Extra Firm / Orthopaedic	1.9mm	20 stone plus

Best mattress either Pocket sprung or Latex?

It sounds like you maybe better choosing a natural fibre pocket sprung mattress thats a medium feel in the comfort layers. Given your hip pain is an indciator of too firm a comfort layer, theres no point is repeating this mistake. So we would recommend a mattress thats a medium feel in these upholstery layers. It will still be supportive and provide your partner with a comfortable balance of comfort and support.

Have a look at our Artisan Latex mattress.

The Artisan Latex has 3150GSM giving it a very deep set of comfort layers. The Artisan Latex is 100% Natural fibre and also uses vanadium coated calico pocket springs. Available in 3 spring tensions, though the medium 1.4 tension is best for both of you. It’s also 2 sided and comes in a zip and link configuration which helps reduce transference if one of you moves during the night.

Artisan Latex Vegan Mattress
1: 200GSM BAMBOO
2: 1500GSM REBOUND COTTON
3: 3CM TALALAY (100% NATURAL) LATEX (GRAPHITE FREE)
4: 450GSM ORGANIC FLAX FIBRE
5: 1000GSM COIR COCONUT FIBRE AS INSULATOR
6: 1500 CALICO ENCASED POCKET SPRINGS (SOFT/MED OR FIRM)
TOTAL: 3150GSM
DEPTH: 27-30CM
CHEMICAL FREE COVER

You could then always add a topper further down the line if you want to increase the latex sensation or tweak the mattresses comfort for a slightly softer deeper sleep.

We hope that helps and gives you further mattress buying guidance. If you have any more mattress related questions please get back in touch on [email protected] or 0161 437 4419.

Sleep Well
John & Ryan