Innerspring vs Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid Mattresses and innerspring mattresses are both very common types of mattresses, they also have a very similar structure, as they both have a comfort layer of foam and an innerspring core, and even though they might be similar on the surface they aren’t identical, there’s a small and subtle difference between them that makes each type of them fit a different variety of sleepers.

Hybrid vs Innerspring Mattresses

There’s no “best” option between hybrid mattresses and innerspring mattresses, as each one excels at different things which makes it a better fit for certain sleepers, that’s why in this article we will help you to decide which mattress is the right one for you.

In this article we will discuss:

• What is a hybrid mattress?
• The construction of a hybrid mattress
• Pros and cons of hybrid mattresses
• What is an innerspring mattress?
• The construction of an innerspring mattress
• Pros and cons of innerspring mattresses
• Should you get a hybrid mattress or an innerspring mattress

What is a Hybrid mattress?

Hybrid mattresses are multi-layered mattress that is designed to blend comfort with durability, as it’s constructed from layers of dense foam, and an innerspring coils support base.

Hybrid mattresses are some of the most popular mattresses on the market, due to their ability to accommodate many sleeping styles and preferences, because hybrid mattresses encompass many firmness options.

The firmness level of each hybrid mattress, along with other factors such as pressure relief, responsiveness, and edge support vary from one hybrid mattress to another depending on the types of foam and coils used in its design.

For more information about memory foam mattresses check our article “What is a Hybrid Mattress?”

Construction of Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses’ design comprises a dense foam comfort layer on top of an innerspring core.

The comfort layer of the hybrid mattress can be compromised from one or more layers of foam, and there are multiple options for the materials of the foam, including memory foam, latex, polyfoam, and even micro coils.

The support base utilizes varying numbers, thicknesses, and types of coils. Each of these factors significantly affects the performance and overall properties of the hybrid mattress. Pocketed coils are the most common type used, as they offer excellent zoned support and reinforce the perimeter of the mattress, but there are other types of coils such as Bonnell coils, Offset coils, and Continuous coils.

Pros of Hybrid Mattress

Durable

Hybrid mattresses are known to be extremely sturdy and durable due to their construction, which blends dense foams with an innerspring core, this combination provides support, and stability, and lengthens the lifespan of the mattress, as the average hybrid could last from 8 to 10 years before starting to show any signs of wear.

Supportive

A hybrid mattress is designed to support and accommodate any weight range and match every sleeping style, mixing between the comfort of foam and the support of an innerspring, which offers sufficient pressure relief, and responsiveness, and promotes ease of movement.

Responsiveness

Hybrid mattresses offer a remarkable degree of responsiveness thanks to the coils found in the mattress for effortless movement, reducing the impression of being stuck in the mattress.

Breathable

Hot sleepers, couples, or anyone who shares a bed with a partner or a pet, will find that the hybrid mattresses are a perfect fit for them, as the innerspring core regulates the temperature of the mattress and promotes airflow, which prevents any excessive overheating or sweating during the night, and ensures a better sleeping experience.

Cons Of Hybrid Mattresses

Price

Hybrid mattress has many great features and properties, and they don’t come cheap, as hybrid mattresses are known for being a bit on the pricier side, however, due to the variety of the hybrid mattresses and the material used in their construction, you could find some affordable options if you’re on a tight budget.

Weight

Hybrid mattresses have a multi-layer construction that blends coils and foam, which makes it heavier than other types of mattresses, like all-foam mattresses for example, which makes handling the mattress and moving it around harder and also raises the shipping fees.

What is an innerspring mattress?

Innerspring mattresses are the oldest and most common type of mattress used in the world, and they’re also the oldest type of mattress, the sturdy construction of these mattresses makes them a sufficient choice for most sleeping positions and preferences.

The firmness level and the overall support of the innerspring mattresses differ from one mattress to another depending on multiple factors, such as the number of coils used, the type of coils, and their size.

Construction of innerspring mattresses

The innerspring mattress is constructed from two layers mainly, a thin comfort layer of foam, with a thickness that is less than 2”, and beneath it, there’s a support base layer of coils that could vary from one mattress to another in the thickness and numbers, typically these coils are pocketed coils, but they also could be Bonnell coils, Offset coils, and continuous coils, some innerspring models have an additional soft cover on top that is made from a breathable fabric to enhance the cooling properties of the mattress.

Pros of Innerspring Mattresses

Support

Innerspring mattresses are some of the most sturdy construction which provide excellent support for any weight range and fit many sleeping preferences, it’s also a great choice for anyone who is looking for a mattress with a firmer feel.

Breathability

The coil base promotes temperature regulation and helps with airflow and circulation, this could be beneficial, especially in the case of hot sleepers and bed sharing as it enhances the heat dissipation properties of the mattress and prevents overheating.

Durability

Innerspring mattresses are often more durable than other types of mattresses, and the higher the coil count is the more durable the mattress becomes.

Affordability

Innerspring mattresses are among the most affordable mattresses on the market, and that’s due to their relatively simple construction which doesn't include too many materials, which makes it a great choice for shoppers looking for a budget-friendly mattress.

Cons of Innerspring Mattresses

Noise

Any mattress with innerspring core is bound to produce some noise, and innerspring mattress is mainly constructed of coils, which means it could be a bit noisy, and that could be an issue for light sleepers or anyone sharing the bed with a partner or a pet, as it might decrease the quality of your sleep.

Motion Transfer

Although innerspring enhances the bounce and responsiveness of the mattress, it also transfers the motion across the surface of the mattress. Innerspring mattresses have relatively low motion isolation levels which is one of the main drawbacks of this type of mattresses.

Potential for Sagging

Many mattresses start showing signs of wear over time and one of the most prominent signs is sagging from the middle, however, these signs can be delayed if the mattress is well-maintained and taken care of.

Should You Get a Hybrid Mattress or Innerspring Mattress?

Choose Hybrid if:

• You are suffering from back pain: Due to the pressure relief properties of the hybrid mattresses your spine will maintain its natural alignment and stay supported, also the innerspring core provides a zonal support and ensures that the body weight is equally distributed on the mattress.
• You’re going to share the bed with a partner or a pet: The innerspring base of the mattress promotes airflow and prevent heat buildup and sweating, unlike all foam mattress.
• You’re a combination sleeper: The top comfort layer of the hybrid mattress, which could consist of one or more layers of foam, contour and adapt or your body movements and shape, while having minimal sinkage to prevent the feeling stuck in the mattress which makes moving easier on top of the mattress.

Choose Innerspring if:

• You are a Plus Size Sleeper: Heavy sleepers often require the highest degree of support and a somewhat firmer surface, and the innerspring mattress provides all of that as it’s one of the most sturdy mattresses in the market.
• Stomach Sleepers: The firmer surface of the innerspring mattress provides sufficient pushback for stomach sleepers and prevents their midsection from sinking into the bed.
• Hot Sleepers: Innerspring: mattresses have impeccable cooling properties as the coil base promotes airflow and prevents excessive heat build-up or sweating during the night.

FAQ

What is the difference between a hybrid and an innerspring mattress?

Hybrid mattresses and innerspring mattresses have a lot of common elements but the main difference is the construction, as hybrid mattresses include a thick layer of foam on top of the coil base, which could consist of one or more types of foam, meanwhile innerspring have a significantly thinner comfort layer on top of the coil base.

Do you need a box spring with a hybrid mattress?

You don’t need a box spring with hybrid mattresses, however, some people prefer them as they enhance the overall support of the mattress and make it taller, so in the end it boils down to your preference.

Are hybrids good for back pain?

Yes, hybrid mattresses have excellent pressure relief properties, as the comfort layer of dense foam contours and adapts to the body which alleviates the tension from the pressure points including the back, the coil base also offers zonal support and distributes the body evenly across the mattress.

How long do innerspring mattresses last?

Innerspring mattresses are very sturdy and designed to have a longer lifespan, so they could last from 7 to 10 years, depending on if it’s well maintained or not, it’s recommended to change it after that as it will start to show wear signs such as sagging from the middle.

Conclusion

The distinctions between hybrid and innerspring mattresses are subtle, yet each mattress will suit various sorts of individuals. A hybrid mattress will provide you with extra comfort and plushness. However, an innerspring mattress is the way to go if you prefer a conventional firm and bouncy mattress.