Have you been wondering what mattresses are made of and how that affects your sleep? We’ve got just the information that you need. In this guide, we’ll look into the different mattress types and how they are made.
Mattress Types
Mattresses can be classified according to their main material. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses are the most popular types of mattresses. A box spring mattress is considered a thing of the past and is no longer desired due to its short lifespan.
- Memory foam
Memory foam is a unique NASA invention that was adopted by the sleep industry. It provides superior body contouring and pressure relief and is recommended for back sleepers as it conforms to the body, promoting proper spinal alignment.
- Traditional spring
Traditional spring beds, also known as open spring mattresses, employ an open metal coil system that provides support according to your weight. While they have shorter lifespans, they are a cheap opinion and are perfect for rooms or purposes where they won’t be used regularly, such as guestrooms.
- Pocket spring
These are mattresses that employ an individually packed spring system. Because the springs are individually packed, they respond to the body independently, providing a personalised amount of support.
- Gel
Gel mattresses are usually hybrid or memory foam beds with a thin layer of ActiGel foam or gel beads embedded in the surface. They are perfect for cushioning the pressure points as well as keeping a cool body throughout the night.
- Latex
Latex beds, similar to gel mattresses, are usually hybrid or memory foam beds with a thin layer of latex that is excellent in evenly distributing your weight, reducing any pressure points. The best thing about latex mattresses is that they are hypoallergenic, which is excellent for somebody who is quite sensitive to certain materials.
- Natural
These are beds with natural fillings, usually of cotton, lambswool, mohair, and bamboo. These are incredibly soft materials that provide superior cushioning. Most of these natural fibres are also naturally hypoallergenic, breathable, and antibacterial, making it an all-around bed in one.
- Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses are beds that employ multiple materials and combine them for a mattress that provides multiple benefits. Often, pocket spring layers are paired with memory foam and natural fibres for a plush sleeping surface.
What mattress is best
In choosing the “best” mattress type for you, you want to keep your sleeping needs, habits, and preferences in mind. Choosing a mattress isn’t a one-size-fits-all ordeal, after all. This is why you have to pay attention to beds that provide features that specifically cater to your needs.
Consider your desired firmness level.
If you are a side or combination sleeper, you will significantly benefit from a medium mattress as it will allow your body to sink without putting strain on your arm.
If you are a back sleeper, this is more down to preference, but a medium-soft to medium-firm mattress will provide the right amount of support and promote proper spinal alignment.
If you are a stomach sleeper, a firmer bed will work best to prevent your spine or neck from overcompensating, which may cause pains in the morning. You also want to consider how your weight factors in the firmness level of the mattress that you will get.
If you weigh heavier than average, a firmer mattress is recommended to hold on to your weight correctly.
Consider the type of mattress.
Different mattress types offer different sleeping experiences, benefits, and disadvantages. It’s a matter of reconciling which features you absolutely cannot sacrifice.
Memory foam beds are an excellent universal option as they provide proper sinkage, superior pressure relief, and enough support while at the same time still being low in maintenance. If you prefer the bounciness that spring beds provide, look into a good pocket spring or hybrid bed at a firmness level that is perfect for you.
Then, consider the other features.
Does your bed need to be cooling to help you sleep better? Are you sensitive to allergens and would appreciate a hypoallergenic bed? Do you live a sustainable lifestyle and prefer beds that have been manufactured with little to no harm to the environment?
There are a variety of mattress types and features that cater to these specific requirements. Keep in mind that more features may often mean a higher price tag.
What’s in a mattress
A mattress has three essential components: a support layer, a comfort layer, and a cover. Some more advanced ‘bed in a box’ models could add more layers to improve and amplify the sleeping experience.
Support layer
The support layer is the layer that is responsible for providing you with the right amount of support that you need. This is also the layer that is the one that is mainly responsible for the firmness of the bed. Frequently, springs or high-density foam are the materials that are used for this layer.
Comfort layer
The comfort layer is at the top of the mattress and is responsible for your overall comfort. The sleeping surface is usually made with various materials such as memory foam, latex, gel layers, gel-infused memory foam, and natural fibres.
What is in a basic mattress
A basic mattress would be a foam mattress. Basically, a mattress made up of one or two layers of foam and a cover.
Some mattresses will also be foam and springs, so one or two layers of foam and then a spring base. These mattresses tend not to have memory foam and don’t have pocket springs encased for better performance.
How is a mattress made
Mattresses foams are cut to shape, and the individual layers are constructed independently. Afterwards, they are upholstered, combined, and sewn together via different mechanisms such as a quilted system.
And then, this mattress is bundled up in a cover that is stitched together for durability.
If you are curious about the process and the materials that go into the construction, below is an excellent video that provides complete but easy to understand information.