Memory Foam vs. Spring Mattresses: Which Is Right for You?
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When it comes to finding the best type of mattress, the choices can feel overwhelming. At the top of the list? Memory foam vs. spring mattresses. These two popular options each offer unique benefits, and choosing between them often comes down to your personal comfort preferences, budget, and sleep style.
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between memory foam and spring mattresses, helping you make the right choice for your body and your sleep.
What Is a Memory Foam Mattress?
A memory foam mattress is made from a viscoelastic material that responds to heat and pressure. Originally developed by NASA, memory foam is designed to mould to your body, offering tailored support and pressure relief.
Key Benefits of Memory Foam:
- Contouring support: The foam adapts to your shape, cradling pressure points such as shoulders, hips and lower back.
- Motion isolation: Great for couples, as movement doesn’t easily transfer across the mattress.
- Silent sleeping: No springs = no squeaks.
- Hypoallergenic: Most memory foam is resistant to dust mites and allergens.
Memory foam is ideal for side sleepers and those who suffer from joint or back pain. It provides a “hugging” sensation that many people find soothing and supportive.
What Is a Spring Mattress?
A spring mattress (also known as an innerspring mattress) is built with a core of metal coils that provide bounce, firmness and airflow. You’ll often find layers of foam, fabric or padding above the spring system to add comfort.
Key Benefits of Spring Mattresses:
- Responsive feel: Springs give a firmer, more traditional sleep surface.
- Breathability: Increased airflow helps regulate temperature – ideal for hot sleepers.
- Affordability: Spring mattresses often come at a lower cost compared to premium foams.
- Edge support: Reinforced edges make it easier to get in and out of bed.
Spring mattresses are especially suited to stomach and back sleepers, or anyone who prefers a firmer, more bouncy feel.
Side-by-Side Mattress Comparison: Memory Foam vs. Spring
| Feature | Memory Foam Mattress | Spring Mattress |
|---|---|---|
| Support | Moulds to body, pressure-relieving | Responsive and bouncy |
| Firmness Options | Varies – soft to firm | Varies – soft to extra firm |
| Motion Transfer | Low – ideal for couples | Higher – movement can be felt |
| Temperature Regulation | Can trap heat (gel-infused versions available) | Naturally cooler with more airflow |
| Durability | 7-10 years on average | 5-8 years depending on build |
| Noise | Silent | May creak over time |
| Price Range | Mid to high | Budget to mid |
Back Support: Which Mattress Type Is Better?
When choosing the best mattress for back support, both memory foam and spring mattresses can work – but in different ways.
- Memory foam distributes weight evenly, keeping your spine aligned. This is great if you wake up with stiffness or back pain.
- Spring mattresses can offer good support too, especially in firmer models. Look for pocket spring designs that respond independently to your body.
If you suffer from lower back pain, an orthopaedic memory foam mattress might be your best bet. If you prefer a firmer surface and a more traditional feel, a high-quality spring mattress could be ideal.
Comfort and Sleep Style
Your preferred sleep position plays a big role in choosing between memory foam vs. spring mattresses.
- Side sleepers benefit most from memory foam due to its contouring nature, which cushions the shoulders and hips.
- Back sleepers may prefer the firmer support of a spring or hybrid mattress.
- Stomach sleepers often need a firmer mattress to prevent the hips from sinking – again, spring mattresses are usually better here.
Which Mattress Is Best for Hot Sleepers?
Memory foam has a reputation for sleeping hot, but modern advances have made a difference. At Resti, we offer gel-infused memory foam mattresses designed to wick heat away and keep you cooler throughout the night.
Spring mattresses naturally promote airflow due to the open coil design, making them a solid choice for those who overheat at night.
Hot sleeper tip: Look for breathable covers, cooling fabrics, or hybrid designs that combine foam with springs for the best of both worlds.
Allergies and Hygiene
For allergy sufferers, memory foam tends to be the better choice. The dense foam resists dust mites and allergens more effectively than traditional open coil systems.
However, both mattress types can be kept clean and hygienic with the use of a washable mattress protector and regular vacuuming.
Price: Which Mattress Type Is More Affordable?
Generally speaking:
- Spring mattresses tend to be more budget-friendly.
- Memory foam mattresses are usually more expensive due to the material technology and comfort layers.
That said, there are affordable options in both categories. At Resti, we offer three collections:
- Resti Essential: Affordable comfort – perfect if you’re looking for a great value spring or foam mattress.
- Resti Comfort: Mid-range memory foam or hybrid designs that strike a balance between support and softness.
- Resti Luxe: Premium quality with advanced comfort layers and pressure-relieving technology.
Durability and Lifespan
A good mattress is an investment – and memory foam typically offers a longer lifespan. Foam returns to its shape night after night, especially in high-density versions.
Spring mattresses may start to sag or squeak over time, especially if the coils are low-gauge or poorly constructed. Look for individually wrapped pocket springs for improved longevity and comfort.
Pros and Cons Summary
Memory Foam Mattress Pros:
✔ Exceptional pressure relief
✔ Excellent motion isolation
✔ Great for back pain and side sleepers
✔ Hypoallergenic
Memory Foam Cons:
✖ May trap heat (unless gel-infused)
✖ Can feel too soft for some
✖ Slightly pricier
Spring Mattress Pros:
✔ Breathable and cooler
✔ Supportive and firm
✔ Budget-friendly options
✔ Ideal for stomach and back sleepers
Spring Mattress Cons:
✖ Less contouring
✖ Shorter lifespan
✖ Can be noisy over time
Still Can’t Decide? Try a Hybrid Mattress
If you're torn between memory foam and spring, you don’t have to choose just one. Hybrid mattresses combine the pressure relief of memory foam with the support and breathability of springs.
Final Thoughts: Which Is the Best Mattress for You?
Choosing between a memory foam vs. spring mattress really comes down to your personal preferences. Ask yourself:
- Do you want soft contouring or firm support?
- Do you sleep hot?
- Do you share a bed with someone who tosses and turns?
- What’s your budget?
If you need personalised advice, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team at Resti Sleep. We’re always happy to help you find your perfect mattress match.
Looking for recommendations?
Explore our full collection of memory foam, spring, and hybrid mattresses online – proudly made in the UK, with comfort and quality at the heart of every design.
