- Pillow top with gel-infused foam
- Anti-sag support on outer edges
- Steel pocket springs help reduce motion from restless partner
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Updated March 26, 2024
There’s no better feeling than sliding into a soft, comfortable bed at the end of a long day. But shopping for a new mattress can quickly go from dream to nightmare — unless you narrow down your options. Distinct from memory foam and latex, an innerspring mattress is one where the support comes from a series of metal coils, typically cushioned by several layers of soft plush material. According to John Merwin, CEO of 3Z Brands, “innerspring mattresses offer tons of great benefits. They provide excellent support and durability thanks to the coil layer which gives the mattress a strong and sturdy foundation. Additionally, the responsive nature of innerspring mattresses appeals to those who prefer a more buoyant feel compared to the contouring sensation that memory foam or latex mattresses can provide.” Best of all, innerspring mattresses are frequently less expensive than latex or memory foam! Says Merwin, “innerspring mattresses also tend to come at a more budget-friendly price point, making them an attractive option for value-conscious consumers.” So, if you’re in the market for a quality innerspring style bed, and wondering how to choose a mattress from the many available options, read on for our top picks. But first, Merwin offers a few important considerations.
What to consider when buying an innerspring mattress
Durability
According to Merwin, “durability is one of the most important factors to consider as it ensures long-term comfort and support. But how do you identify a durable mattress? Merwin explains, “The longevity of a mattress depends on the construction and quality of the materials used. The quality of the coils is important as they provide the primary support system over time. The construction of the mattress, including the design and alignment of the coils, also greatly influences its durability and longevity.”
Materials
The materials used in the construction of the mattress will obviously have a direct impact on its comfort. Merwin says, “I suggest paying attention to the quality of materials used in the construction, especially the foam and transition layers.” If you’re looking for maximum plushness, you may even be in the market for a hybrid mattress — which is a descriptor given to an innerspring mattress with a substantial foam topper.
Merwin also notes that, when looking at the materials and construction of a prospective mattress, the coils are equally as important to consider as the foam layer. “The coil count, or type of coils, should also be considered to gauge the mattress's supportiveness and resilience,” he shares. If you’re seeking a mattress for heavy people, look for mattresses with a higher coil count for increased support. Coils encased in fabric (sometimes called “pocketed coils”) are generally considered superior to naked coils, because the cloth encasement allows each spring to move on its own, which enables motion isolation and targeted support.
Personal needs
Since each person’s body is different, there’s no “one size fits all” mattress that works for everyone. With that in mind, Merwin says “you want to factor in your personal preferences such as firmness level, motion isolation, and edge support to ensure the mattress aligns with your specific sleep needs and preferences.”
Our top picks for the best innerspring mattress
Best extra firm innerspring mattress: The Wink Bed
Best extra firm innerspring mattress
The WinkBed - Queen
Carefully crafted with a Euro-pillow top and pocketed coil to help provide increased air flow, the Wink Bed is a mattress engineered for a great night’s rest. These firm mattresses are even offered in multiple firmness options, including firm, luxury firm, and also plus, which is designed for heavier bodies and offers extra-firm support. These mattresses are also extremely breathable, appealing for anyone who needs to sleep cool.
Specifications:
- Sizes: Twin/Twin XL/Full/Queen/King/California King
- Firmness levels: Soft/Luxury Firm/Firm/Plus
- Trial period: 120-night free trial
- Coils: Pocketed
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
- Delivery: Free
- Price: Twin ($849), Twin XL ($949), Full ($1199), Queen ($1499), King ($1699), California King ($1749)
What we like:
What we don't Like:
- Some reviews say it’s firmer than expected
- Cost is prohibitive for some
The bottom line:
For those who require extra-firm support and want breathability to boot, the Wink Bed mattress has you covered.
Get it here: The Wink Bed
Best innerspring mattress for hot sleepers: Leesa Sapira Hybrid Chill Mattress
Best innerspring mattress for hot sleepers
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Mattress, Twin/Medium-Firm
When searching for a quality mattress that sleeps cool and feels luxurious, the Leesa Sapira Hybrid Chill mattress is a terrific option. These cooling mattresses are constructed with four distinct premium foams, to create an ultimate cradle of luxury. Three different comfort layers offer customized options for your sleep experience, and individually wrapped springs provide extra comfort where you need it the most. The cooling top helps keep sleepers in a blissfully chilly state throughout the night. Shopping tip: Boost the cool factor by outfitting your bed with the best cooling comforters, best cooling sheets, and the best cooling pillow.
Specifications:
- Sizes: Twin/Twin XL/Full/Queen/King/California King
- Firmness levels: Plush, Medium Firm, Firm
- Trial period: Risk free 100-night trial
- Coils: Individually wrapped
- Warranty: 10-year warranty
- Delivery: Free
- Price: Twin ($1124), Twin XL ($1214), Full ($1439), Queen ($1619), King ($1799), California King ($1799)
What we like:
- Ultra cool cover top
- Six separate internal layers
- High airflow foam for extra breathability
What we don't Like:
- Price will be prohibitive for some
- Too much bounce for some
The bottom line:
The Leesa Spira Hybrid Chill features a quality design that makes it perfect for a deliciously cool night’s rest.
Get it here: Leesa Sapira Hybrid Chill Mattress
Best flippable innerspring mattress: Charles P. Rogers Estate S.E. Mattress
Best flippable innerspring mattress
Charles P. Rogers Estate S.E. Mattress
For a mattress with a fine European feel, the Charles P. Rogers Estate S.E. is an excellent choice. The replaceable parts help provide both luxury and increased durability. The Estate S.E. also has a bottom mattress with firm and soft sides that allow you to adjust to your sleep preferences as you wish or as they evolve. Tightly wound spring coils can help adjust to each individual body type. Customizable capability makes this ideal for side, stomach, and back sleepers.
Specifications:
- Sizes: Twin/Twin XL/Full/Queen/King/California King
- Firmness levels: Firm, Plush, Soft
- Trial period: 100 days
- Coils: Powercore 2-spring unit
- Warranty: 5-15 year warranty
- Delivery: Free delivery
- Price: Twin ($1,386.75), Twin XL ($1,589.25), Full ($1,746.75), Queen ($1,799.25), King ($2,399.25), California King ($2,399.25)
What we like:
- Flippable and replaceable parts
- Talalay latex topper which retains less heat
- Quilt top feels like down
What we don't Like:
- Price is on the higher side
- The hand-made elements make prep time a little longer
The bottom line:
With a quilted feel, the Charles P. Rogers Estate S.E. is pleasantly plush. The mattress is flippable, with a removable/replaceable topper, making this an ideal investment.
Get it here: Charles P. Rogers Estate S.E. Mattress
Best eco-friendly innerspring mattress: Eco Terra Hybrid Mattress
In an era of increased anxiety, wondering whether your mattress is made from quality materials can make sleep even more difficult. The Eco Terra Hybrid puts those fears to bed with some of the finest organic materials available. The premium coils inside provide consistent support throughout, offering just the amount of give for a great night’s rest. This mattress has no memory foam or chemical adhesives, making it one of the purest and most natural mattresses on the market.
Specifications:
- Sizes: Twin/Twin XL/Full/Queen/King/California King
- Firmness levels: Medium, Medium-Firm
- Trial period: 90-day
- Coils: (hybrid, wrapped coil, innerspring, or check website)
- Warranty: 15-year limited warranty
- Delivery: Free delivery
- Price: Twin ($699), Twin XL ($799), Full ($899), Queen ($999), King ($1299), California King ($1299)
What we like:
- Soft breathable cover
- Certified organic products
- Multiple purity certifications
- Eco Terra offers full transparency with mattress materials
What we don't Like:
- Large sizes more expensive
- Slightly firmer than expected
The bottom line:
Made from certified organic products, this is an eco-friendly mattress that provides a premium sleep experience.
Get it here: Eco Terra Hybrid Mattress
Best firm innerspring mattress: Beautyrest Silver Extra Firm Innerspring Mattress
Best firm innerspring mattress
Beautyrest Silver Extra Firm Innerspring Mattress
In an era of plush mattresses, sometimes it is difficult to find a mattress that is actually firm and comfortable. The Wayfair BeautyRest Extra Firm Innerspring is a great mattress that both supports and properly cools. The temperature sensitive memory foam literally adjusts to the room, giving you a more relaxed slumber—and the gel memory foam provides an ideal amount of lumbar support. Price is always a consideration with a purchase this important, but Wayfair’s Beauty Extra firm is very reasonable.
Specifications:
- Sizes: Twin/Twin XL/Full/Queen/King/California King
- Firmness levels: Extra firm
- Trial period: 100-night
- Coils: Pocketed Coil
- Warranty: 10-year limited warranty
- Delivery: Free
- Price: Twin ($639.99), Twin XL ($649.99), Full ($679.99), Queen ($699.99), King ($879.99), California King ($899.99)
What we like:
- Gel memory foam for lumbar support
- Pocketed coils reduce motion
- Breathable construction reduces heat
What we don't Like:
- Only one level of firmness
- Pillow-top option unavailable
The bottom line:
Wayfair’s BeautyRest Extra Firm Innerspring is a terrific mattress for those who need or prefer the firmer feel.
Get it here: Beautyrest Silver Extra Firm Innerspring Mattress
Best innerspring mattress for back pain: Saatva Classic Mattress
Best innerspring mattress for back pain
Saatva Classic Hybrid Innerspring Mattress
After both good days and bad, our mattresses are meant to be a place of ultimate comfort. With something that integral, it’s hard to skimp on comfort and quality—and if you’re seeking a mattress for back pain, the Saatva Classic Mattress is one bed that you’ll be excited to return to. With a thick and luxurious pillow top and dual coil design, this instantly feels like a premium mattress. Responsive springs and supportive sides make this feel like the kind of mattress usually found only in high-end hotels. Shopping tip: Saatva made our list of the best places to buy a mattress online.
Specifications:
- Sizes: Twin/Twin XL/Full/Queen/King/Split King/California King/Split King
- Firmness levels: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, Firm
- Trial period: 365-night
- Coils: Innerspring
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
- Delivery: Free
- Price: Twin ($1,101), Twin XL ($1,186), Full ($1,611), Queen ($1,696), King ($2,121), Split California King ($2,372), California King ($2,121), Split California King ($2,372)
What we like:
- Strong edge support
- 3” pillow top standard
- Chiropractor-approved for lumbar support
What we don't Like:
- Price out of reach for some
- Accessories also expensive
The bottom line:
A generous 365-day trial offers you an entire year of slumbering investigation before deciding on your purchase. But with luxurious layers of cushioning comfort, it is much more likely that you will have the Saatva Classic mattress for many years to come.
Get it here: Saatva Classic Mattress
Best value innerspring hybrid mattress: DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress
Best value innerspring hybrid mattress
DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress
Coupled with both supportive springs and cushioning foam, the DreamCloud hybrid mattress feels decidedly premium, yet is offered at an attractive price point. Gel-infused memory foam helps provide contouring to ease pain in back, neck, shoulders, and hips. Individually wrapped coils reduce motion and help provide a more serene sleep. With multiple awards for luxury hybrids, this mattress is truly outstanding for comfort.
Specifications:
- Sizes: Twin/Twin XL/Full/Queen/King/California King
- Firmness levels: Medium Firm
- Trial period: 365-night
- Coils: Individually wrapped
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Delivery: Free
- Price: Twin ($419), Twin XL ($545), Full ($599), Queen ($665), King ($835), California King ($835), Split King ($1090)
What we like:
- Price is reasonable
- Breathable top cover
- Therapeutic memory foam layer
What we don't Like:
- No additional firmness options
- Mattress may take 72 hours to expand up to original form
The bottom line:
With a cloud-like top, strong supportive base, and an excellent price, the DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress offers great value for the price.
Get it here: DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress
Best foam-free innerspring mattress: Parachute Eco Mattress
Best foam-free innerspring mattress
The Mattress in King | Parachute
It can be difficult to find a foam-free innerspring mattress that still offers superior comfort and plushness, but the Parachute eco mattress is not only foam-free, it’s also made from all recyclable materials that are as eco-conscious as they are comfortable. It’s constructed with more springs in the middle of the mattress for back support, and fewer at the foot and head for more softness and pressure point release. Whether you’re a side, back or stomach sleeper, the unique ergonomic zones offer excellent spinal support.
Specifications:
- Sizes: Twin/Twin XL/Full/Queen/King/California King
- Firmness levels: Medium Firm
- Trial period: 100-night trial
- Coils: Pocketed coils
- Warranty: 10-year
- Delivery: Free
- Price: Twin ($1500), Twin XL ($1500), Full ($2200), Queen ($2400), King ($2600), California King ($2600)
What we like:
- Quality construction
- Created from all eco-friendly materials
- Motion-isolating design
What we don't Like:
- Higher price point
The bottom line:
The Parachute Eco Mattress is a foam-free mattress that’s thoughtfully designed, with comfort in mind.
Get it here: Parachute Eco Mattres
Best organic innerspring mattress: Avocado Luxury Organic Mattress
Best organic innerspring mattress
Avocado Luxury Organic Mattress
Our mattresses should be a sacred place where we return every evening for another night of peaceful tranquility, unconcerned with the quality of our sleep or the health of our planet. Boasting a 17-layer construction of organic and natural materials, the Avocado Luxury Organic is a soft mattress that provides plush support, plus the peace of knowing you’re sleeping on premium organic bedding. (It also made our list of the best soft mattresses.) While its price may be out of reach for some, its quality is unmatched.
Specifications:
- Sizes: Twin XL/Full /Queen/King/California King/Split King
- Firmness levels: Medium, Plush, Ultra Plush
- Trial period: 1-year
- Coils: micro-coil innerspring unit, featuring up to 960 individually wrapped springs
- Warranty: 25-year limited warranty
- Delivery: $250 delivery (with in-home setup)
- Price: Twin XL ($2789), Full ($3059), Queen ($3509), King ($4499), California King ($4499), Split King ($5578)
What we like:
- Certified-organic mattress
- Unmatched plush comfort
- Adjustable base option
What we don't Like:
- Price is expensive
- No Twin size
The bottom line:
For an all-organic mattress made of highest quality materials, the Avocado is a top choice.
Get it here: Avocado Luxury Organic Mattress
Best innerspring mattress for restless sleepers: Serta Perfect Sleeper Firm Innerspring Mattress
Best innerspring mattress for restless sleepers
Serta Perfect Sleeper 12" Firm Innerspring Mattress
If you find yourself tossing and turning throughout the night, you need a mattress that balances weight and controls heat dispersion, so you and your partner can both achieve restful sleep. The Wayfair Serta Perfect Sleeper Firm Innerspring Mattress is a very reasonably priced option with helpful modern technology like a gel cooling layer, making heat dispersion less of a problem. This mattress also features low motion transfer, so you won’t disturb your partner each time you roll over.
Specifications:
- Sizes: Twin/Full/Queen/King
- Firmness levels: Firm
- Trial period: 100-night
- Coils: Innerspring
- Warranty: 10-year
- Delivery: Free
- Price: Twin ($544.39), Full ($631.63), Queen ($665.15), King ($786.06)
What we like:
- Reasonable price
- Cooling layer
- Low motion transfer is ideal for restless sleepers
What we don't Like:
- No pillow top
- Limited sizes
The bottom line:
For those who tend to toss and turn, the Serta Perfect Sleeper Firm Innerspring offers low motion transfer and a cooling gel layer.
Get it here: Serta Perfect Sleeper Firm Innerspring Mattress
Best budget innerspring mattress: Wayfair Sleep Plush Pillowtop Innerspring Mattress
Best budget innerspring mattress
Wayfair Sleep Plush Pillowtop Innerspring Mattress
Whether you’re looking for a mattress upgrade, trying to fill a guest room or searching for a child’s first bed, finding an ideal budget mattress is often a challenge. The Wayfair Sleep Plush Pillow Top Mattress is carefully-crafted, with a beautifully designed exterior, and it has an enormous 8-inch pillow top that feels pillowy soft. The multiple foam layers cushion the solid pocket springs, helping cradle your body as you slip into slumber. And most importantly, this mattress features a very reasonable price tag.
Specifications:
- Sizes: Twin/Full/Queen
- Firmness levels: Plush
- Trial period: 100-night
- Coils: Pocket coil
- Warranty: 10-year
- Delivery: Free
- Price: Twin ($162.99), Full ($233.99), Queen ($252.99)
What we like:
- Affordable price
- Thick pillow top
- Convenient packaging
What we don't Like:
- No King size option available
- Lacks firmness needed for some sleepers
The bottom line:
The Wayfair Sleep Plush Pillow Top Innerspring Mattress is a great budget mattress that satisfies on price and comfort.
Get it here: Wayfair Sleep Plush Pillowtop Innerspring Mattress
Best innerspring futon mattress: Futon Shop Pure Comfort Organic Cotton Mattress
Best innerspring futon mattress
Queen Loveseat Organic Cotton & Wool Couch Futon Mattress Medium Firm
Futon Shop’s Pure Comfort Organic Cotton Mattress is a rare overlap of pure sustainable ingredients and premium sleep support. Hundreds of independently operating coils offer flexibility to your body’s natural curvature, while still offering a reduction in motion transfer. The thoughtfully-designed virgin wool and organic cotton layers also keep you cool and comfortable.
Specifications:
- Sizes: Twin/Twin XL/Twin Loveseat/Full Double/Full Loveseat/Queen/Queen Loveseat/ Eastern King/California King
- Firmness levels: Medium firm
- Trial period: 30-day
- Coils: Pocketed micro coils
- Warranty: 7-day
- Delivery: Additional fee for delivery
- Price: Twin ($621.48), Twin XL ($659.98), Twin Loveseat ($714.98), Full Double ($742.48), Full Loveseat ($797.48), Queen ($797.48), Queen Loveseat ($857.98), Eastern King ($989.98), California King ($989.98)
What we like:
- Made with organic components
- Thin profile design
- Assembled in US
What we don't Like:
- Price is high for futon
- Shorter trial period
The bottom line:
Hand-assembled in the USA, the Futon Shop Pure Comfort Organic Cotton Mattress is a durable futon ideal for a multitude of uses.
Get it here: Futon Shop Pure Comfort Organic Cotton Mattress
Durability and longevity
Many different factors contribute to the overall durability and longevity of your innerspring mattress. Says Merwin, “the materials used in the mattress cover and transition layers, like foam and/or latex, can impact its longevity by enhancing comfort and protection against wear and tear. It takes a meticulous balance of coil quality, construction integrity, and high-quality materials to ensure a durable mattress.” To ensure durability over time, it’s also important to practice proper maintenance.
How to maintain an innerspring mattress
With good maintenance, your innerspring mattress should last for years to come. But how do you keep your mattress in top quality condition? Merwin offers a few tips: “First, you can rotate the mattress, which helps to even out wear. If your mattress can be flipped, we recommend doing that as well to enhance longevity. Additionally, we recommend using a high-quality protector to help shield the mattress against spills and stains.”
How to select the right size for a comfortable fit
It can be difficult to find the right size mattress to suit your specific needs, but Merwin has a few words of advice: “To select the right size mattress for a comfortable fit, we recommend taking into account the height, weight, and sleep style of the individuals who will be utilizing the mattress. This will help the user(s) find the best fit for their specific needs. We also suggest shoppers factor in their personal preferences and space constraints to choose between standard sizes such as twin, full, queen, or king.”
How we selected the best innerspring mattress
Selecting a comfortable mattress can be a highly subjective experience, but there are a few factors that experts recommend considering that I used these to guide my research:
Coil count and construction
According to my research and the advice from experts, a high coil count is generally correlated with more support, and wrapped coils also enable more targeted support, so I looked at the coil count and construction when determining which mattresses to recommend.
Plush layer
No one buys an innerspring mattress just for the coils - it’s all about the layer of softness that covers them. To select the mattresses on this list, I paid attention to what the plush layer was constructed with: experts advise purchasing an innerspring mattress with high quality materials in the topper, such as quality latex, memory foam, or multiple layers of other premium material like wool, to add softness. If the mattress retailer did not offer enough specifics on the materials and construction of the plush layer, I considered that a sign that it wouldn’t be comfortable enough to make the list.
Extra features
A mattress is a premium purchase, so it’s important to select one that will cover all of your needs. To that end, I paid attention during my research to the special features that were offered for each mattress - like a cooling topper for hot sleepers, or all-organic cotton covers, and prioritized mattresses that were packed with those extra details that add up to increased comfort.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Are there any good innerspring mattresses without memory foam or latex?
Yes! While it may be more difficult to find a foam-free mattress, they exist. Search “foam free innerspring mattress” to find options, or ask your local retailer for an innerspring mattress that doesn’t contain foam. In a foam-free innerspring mattress, the softness that would typically come from the foam layer is instead achieved through layers of material such as wool. The Parachute Eco Mattress, included on this list, is a quality foam-free option.
What is the difference between encased coil and traditional innerspring?
The terminology associated with innerspring mattresses can be confusing. Merwin explains, “Encased coils are individually fabric-wrapped coil units. This type of coil system allows each spring to act independently, minimizing movement across the mattress and offering both better motion isolation and targeted support compared to a traditional innerspring mattress. A traditional innerspring mattress is made up of interconnected coils that move together as one unit.”
But which coil system is best for you? That depends on your needs and preferences. Merwin says, “The encased coil design reduces motion transfer, making it ideal for couples or individuals sensitive to movement during sleep. The choice between the two depends on personal preferences, with some preferring the traditional innerspring for its firmer feel and others opting for encased coils for enhanced contouring and reduced disturbance.”
What are the benefits of an innerspring mattress?
Besides being typically cheaper than memory foam or latex mattresses, many sleepers also find that innerspring mattresses are more comfortable — and also sleep cooler. Says Merwin, “Many prefer innerspring mattresses for their breathability, as they allow for better airflow and temperature regulation at night. Additionally, the responsive nature of innerspring mattresses appeals to those who prefer a more buoyant feel compared to the contouring sensation that memory foam or latex mattresses can provide.”
What's the best mattress for most side sleepers?
While all sleepers benefit from some support, side sleepers also require a bit of plushness as well, to cushion the hips and shoulders. With that in mind, side sleepers might consider looking for a hybrid innerspring mattress, as that will provide the supportive resistance from the coils, as well as a thick layer of foam to cushion the joints.
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