When a mattress is coming to the end of its life, it will let you know. From creaking springs and lumpy bits to sudden aches and pains, there are plenty of warning signs to look out for.

If you think it might be time to pop a new mattress on your bed, you’ve got a choice to make: spring mattress or memory foam mattress?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s always best to test out a new mattress in person, but we’ve put together this handy guide to the pros and cons of both memory foam and springs so you’ll at least know where to start.

Memory Foam

Memory foam mattresses are made from synthetic polyurethane, a material that is designed to react to pressure and to hold shape and form. A memory foam mattress will mould to your shape as you sleep.

Pros

  • Since memory foam moulds to your shape, it’s extremely good for sleepers with aches and pains. The memory foam gives support where needed and helps to support spine alignment.
  • Memory foam mattresses work well for couples as each person enjoys their own unique support.
  • Memory foam is great for adjustable beds as it will bend and reform as needed.
  • Polyurethane is an incredibly dense material and so prevents allergens like dust and mites from becoming embedded in the mattress. This means all memory foam mattresses are hypoallergenic.
  • Because they’re made with synthetic materials, memory foam mattresses tend to be more durable and last longer.

Cons

  • Memory foam mattresses can be expensive.
  • Memory foam is made from synthetic materials.
  • The density of polyurethane means that air flow can be a problem with memory foam. These mattresses can retain heat and sweat, and might not be suitable for those who get hot at night.
  • You can’t use a memory foam mattress right away, it needs time to take its shape before use.

Spring mattress

Spring mattresses come in a few different varieties but basically consist of a series of springs or coils that distribute pressure equally across the bed. A spring mattress will retain its shape underneath you.

Pros

  • Since they’re older and more prolific, spring mattresses are usually much more affordable than memory foam.
  • Spring mattresses offer more variety in spring or coil type and can offer different layers to suit different needs.
  • Because they allow for airflow around coils, spring mattresses are much more effective at keeping you cool and reducing sweat during sleep.
  • Spring mattresses tend to be made from more natural materials.

Cons

  • Springs are not so good for alignment and aches and pains as they distribute pressure evenly instead of providing support where it’s needed.
  • Where there’s space for air between coils, there’s also space for allergens to become trapped making some spring mattresses a less desirable option for anyone with allergies or breathing issues.
  • Because springs and coils distribute pressure and movement, spring mattresses can be annoying for couples (especially if one half of the couple is a restless sleeper!)
  • Springs and coils are prone to bending out of shape and sagging over time, which means spring mattresses tend not to last as long as memory foam.

Hopefully, that gives you lots to think about when choosing your new mattress. Of course, the best way to find out which mattress is right for you is to have a good old test in-store! It might take you a while to choose, but getting the right mattress is so important when it comes to getting your best night’s sleep.

If you need your new mattress right away, don’t forget that Bedco offer free next day delivery on selected mattresses — whether you want memory foam or springs.

Want to refresh your bed but not ready to commit to a whole new mattress? Don’t forget to check out our range of memory foam mattress toppers too!