When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Products or services may be offered by an affiliated entity. Learn more.

Jackson Lindeke
By Jackson Lindeke
Why Trust Sleep Foundation

Back in the day, before memory foam beds gained popularity and prior to the mattress-in-a-box craze, innerspring mattresses were the only game in town. Traditional innerspring mattresses are still available today, though they’re less commonly sold online because they typically can’t be compressed for shipping. For this reason, some of the best online mattresses that are marketed as innersprings are actually closer in spirit to hybrid mattresses, with steel coils that are wrapped in fabric to cut down on motion transfer and thick comfort systems containing foam or latex layers.

In this guide, we’ll discuss which people we think will benefit most from using an innerspring mattress. We’ll also provide our picks for the best innerspring mattresses across a variety of categories. Want more information about standout mattresses, including innerspring models? Check out our guide to the best mattresses of 2024 to learn about our top picks and how we select them. We also cover beds geared toward certain types of sleepers, such as the best mattresses for side sleepers.

sf_winkbed_1
Best Innerspring Mattress of 2024

Winkbed

Of all the mattresses containing innersprings we’ve tested, our product experts determined that the WinkBed offers the best balance of cradling and pressure relief on the surface while still generating superior coil support.

See The Top Pick

Didn’t see one you liked? Try the Mattress Match.

Answer three questions to find mattresses that matches your sleep style. Our recommendation for you is based on over 450 different mattress options.

Please select all options

The Best Mattress Deals of the Week

Our list of top picks represents the innerspring models that performed best in our testing process. To learn more about each of our picks, read our mattress profiles below. We also offer a general guide to shopping for innerspring mattresses. Scroll to the bottom of the page to learn about typical costs for innersprings, the average lifespan of an innerspring bed, and innerspring terminology such as coil gauge and coil count.

In-Depth Reviews

“The WinkBed’s foam layers provide just enough cushioning for the body without feeling too soft, and the coils feel secure in all the right places. One of our field testers has been sleeping on the Luxury Firm model for three years and raves about the amount of support it offers without feeling overly firm.” – Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing

  • Pros

    1. Zoned coils deliver targeted pushback to heavier areas of the body

    2. Reinforced perimeter increases usable surface area

    3. Comfort system provides even contouring and pressure relief

  • Cons

    1. May require a fitted sheet with deep pockets to accommodate its 13.5-inch profile

    2. Firmer models transfer a fair amount of motion

Mattress Type

Innerspring

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)

Price Range

$1,149 – $2,049

Trial Period

120 nights (30 night requirement)

As a hybrid mattress, the WinkBed combines the sturdy support of traditional innersprings with the deep cushioning of an all-foam model. The result is an exceptionally balanced design that excelled at pressure relief, edge support, and temperature control during our tests. You can choose from four firmness levels based on your body type and sleep position, and WinkBeds’ generous return policy allows you to exchange the mattress for a softer or firmer model if your first choice isn’t quite right.

How It Performed

Our team tested all four firmness levels and found that each one can accommodate different types of sleepers. Side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds should appreciate the close contouring and cradling of the Softer WinkBed, which rates as a 4 on our 10-point firmness scale. The Luxury Firm (6) and Firmer (7) designs offer more support for back and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds. If you weigh more than 230 pounds and need maximum support, we recommend the WinkBed Plus (8), a model specifically designed with this weight group in mind.

We found that pressure relief and motion isolation were two major strengths of the Softer WinkBed. While many hybrids are firmer and more responsive, this design’s close conforming is more akin to an all-foam mattress. The three other designs earned higher marks in performance categories like temperature control, edge support, and ease of movement.

What It’s Made of

The Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer models begin with adaptive foam layers encased in a Euro-top cover. Contouring level varies by firmness, but all three mold to your figure to distribute your weight and align your spine. None of these models felt very responsive, which is a plus for couples due to the lack of motion transfer but may be a downside if you prefer an exceptionally bouncy mattress. The WinkBed Plus’ top layer consists of latex, rather than foam, so this model should provide the springiness you need to sleep comfortably.

All WinkBed models feature pocketed coil support cores divided into three zones based on gauge. Thicker coils rest beneath your midsection to push back against the extra weight in your torso and hips, while thinner coils cradle the head and legs. The perimeter coils are also reinforced to minimize sinkage when you get in and out of bed. A breathable, moisture-wicking Tencel cover encases the mattress.

The WinkBed is reasonably priced for a hybrid and ground shipping is free of charge for customers in the contiguous U.S. Your order includes a 120-night trial period, allowing you to test the mattress and decide if the firmness you’ve chosen is right for you. If you opt for an exchange, the replacement model comes with a 60-night trial. WinkBeds also backs each mattress with a lifetime warranty.

“Our testers gave the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid high marks in a number of performance areas, including temperature control and pressure relief. They were impressed at the reasonable price-point for such a well-rounded bed.” – Logan Foley, Managing Editor

  • Pros

    1. Competitively priced for a bed with an 8-inch layer of pocketed coils

    2. Zoned coils are reinforced around the bed’s edges

    3. Nice combination of pressure relief and temperature control

  • Cons

    1. Extra charge to add pillow-top

    2. $99 fee for returns during the sleep trial period

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Price Range

$499 – $1,199

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

Luxury innersprings are often expensive, but some manage to be both affordable and high-quality. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a prime example. The bed is constructed with quality materials and optimized performance features, all at an approachable price-point compared to other luxury models we’ve tested in the lab.

How It Performed

The Signature Hybrid is available in three firmness levels: medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (8). We tested all three and found that each one has unique strengths. The medium soft model was most popular with our side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. This design provides the deepest body contouring to alleviate aches and pains along the spine. The medium firm design was most popular among our testers. This model earned favorable ratings from side and back sleepers across different weight groups, as well as stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds. Back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds also found the firm model comfortable.

Thermoregulation is a major strength of the Signature Hybrid. Cooling infusions in the foam layers and steady air circulation throughout the coil layer help the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature. We recommend the Signature Hybrid to anyone who has yet to find a mattress with foam layers that sleeps sufficiently cool. Our team was also impressed by the support system. We felt generous pushback from the coils when lying near and sitting along the edges, and none of us had trouble moving across the surface – even when testing the medium soft model.

What It’s Made of

The Signature Hybrid’s comfort system slightly changes depending on the firmness level. The two softer models feature a top polyfoam layer quilted into the cover, giving the surface a plush initial feel. Underneath is a layer of adaptive, gel-infused memory foam that helps relieve pressure. Meanwhile, the firm model features a thin layer of quilted cotton over gel-infused TitanFlex foam, which is engineered for more responsiveness. All models feature transitional polyfoam that rounds out the comfort system and prevents your body from sinking too deeply into the coils.

Pocketed coils over a high-density polyfoam base layer make up the Signature Hybrid’s support core. Thicker coils line the perimeter to minimize sinkage and help you get in and out of bed with relative ease. The coils rest on a base layer of polyfoam for stability, and a breathable cotton cover encases the mattress. For more cushioning, you can upgrade the mattress with an extra foam layer known as the “Cloud” pillow-top that makes the surface feel noticeably softer.

The Signature Hybrid’s size range includes standard mattress dimensions, as well as a split California king for couples with adjustable bed bases, short sizes, and RV-friendly options. Brooklyn Bedding offers free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. The company backs each mattress order with a 120-night sleep trial and a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.

“Of all the Helix models our team tested, the well-rounded Midnight was easily one of the most popular. Our side sleepers were particularly impressed with the combo of deep cushioning on the surface and a sturdy, supportive base.” – Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Expert

  • Pros

    1. Combination of memory foam and pocketed coils results in a balanced feel

    2. Comfortable for a wide range of sleep positions and body types

    3. Reasonably priced

  • Cons

    1. May not be supportive enough for sleepers over 230 pounds

    2. Might sleep too warm for hot sleepers without the cooling cover upgrade

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$749 – $1,399

Trial Period

100 nights (30-night requirement)

Each sleep position has unique mattress needs. For most side sleepers, the ideal mattress provides extra cushioning for the shoulders and hips without sinking too much beneath these areas. The Helix Midnight is specifically geared toward side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, but our tests show the mattress can accommodate people who use this position across a wide range of body types. Approachable pricing and extra perks for shoppers also make the Midnight a solid choice if your budget is limited.

How It Performed

Helix’s hybrid mattress line includes nearly 20 different models. Of those we’ve tested, the medium firm (6) Midnight is one of the most balanced. The mattress earned solid ratings from side and back sleepers on our team weighing up to 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. Anyone who weighs more should consider one of Helix’s firmer models, such as the Twilight (7) or Dawn (8).

The foam layers absorb a fair amount of movement and reduce motion transfer well, so the Midnight is a good option for couples — especially those who have found other hybrids and innersprings too disruptive. Edge support was another testing highlight. Although our testers over 230 pounds noticed some sinkage, most of us felt decent pushback when getting on and off the mattress. Hot sleepers should consider the cooling cover upgrade, as some of our testers found the mattress warm during our temperature control tests.

What It’s Made of

Three foam layers — beginning with a top layer of memory foam — make the Midnight’s surface adaptive, with an invitingly plush feel when you get into bed and deeper cradling as your body settles. The third layer is fairly dense and acts as a buffer between you and the support core. Individually pocketed coils with a reinforced perimeter stabilize the mattress and minimize sinkage from edge to edge. High-density base foam completes the hybrid design.

Helix offers two upgrades for the Midnight. You can swap out the standard-issue polyester cover for one composed of GlacioTex, a fabric with heat-dissipating phase change material. An additional foam layer encased in GlacioTex is also available, giving the mattress a Euro-top surface and slightly softer feel.

The Midnight’s sticker price falls below average for a hybrid and shipping is free to all 50 states. You’ll also receive two pillows with your order at no extra charge. Helix’s sleep trial runs for 100 nights. If you decide to keep your mattress, you’ll also receive a 10-year warranty against structural defects.

“The Saatva Classic comes closer to imitating the responsiveness of a traditional innerspring than just about any other hybrid we’ve tested. We found the mattress excelled at support and overall stability, and appreciated the versatility of its firmness and thickness options.” – Logan Foley, Managing Editor

  • Pros

    1. Unique coil-on-coil design delivers robust support

    2. Pocketed microcoil layer offers exceptional responsiveness

    3. Free in-home setup and old mattress removal

  • Cons

    1. Two layers of coils results in below-average motion isolation

    2. Returns are subject to a $99 processing fee

Mattress Type

Innerspring

Firmness Options

Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Price Range

$995 – $2,710

Trial Period

365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)

The Saatva Classic is a luxury hybrid constructed with comfort in mind. The plush pillow-top and pressure-relieving foam greatly alleviate pressure-induced pain in your joints. The Classic also doubles down on the benefits of coils, employing a supportive coil-on-coil construction that you won’t find in many other mattresses.

How It Performed

The mattress is available in a 11.5-inch and 14.5-inch option. For both models, you can select between a soft (3), medium firm (6), and firm (8) feel, which broadens the Saatva Classic’s ability to serve all types of sleepers regardless of their weight. During performance tests, the bed appealed especially to side and back sleepers on our team. The cushioning from the pillow-top coupled with the pushback from the coils was ideally suited to these sleep positions, which require contouring as well as support for healthy sleep posture. While helping with spinal alignment, the microcoils also generated bounce to make moving around a cinch on top of the surface.

What It’s Made of

The two coil layers in the Saatva Classic have distinct build styles. The bottom layer, which is either 4 or 7 inches thick depending on the model you choose, utilizes bonnell coils. With 13-gauge steel, these coils are strong and offer a reliable support core and meaningful edge support. Above those coils is a 4-inch layer of microcoils. These are individually wrapped, letting each coil compress in a way that is more tailored to the weight applied to the bed. The pillow-top contains polyfoam as well as a memory foam lumbar pad. A breathable organic cotton cover rounds out the overall construction.

As an additional perk, the Saatva comes with free installation and removal of an old mattress as well as a 365-night sleep trial. However, if you choose to return the bed, Saatva does charge $99 to cover the cost of return shipping. The mattress has a lifetime warranty against defects.

“The Nolah Evolution 15 works because it combines the plushness of a pillow-top with the robust feel of thick, zoned coils. The medium firm feel earned high marks from many on our team, but all three firmness levels earned solid ratings from our group.” – Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing

  • Pros

    1. Tri-zoned coils relieve pressure in the hips and shoulders

    2. Pocketed coil layer includes perimeter reinforcement

    3. Plush option is excellent for side sleepers under 230 pounds

  • Cons

    1. Thick 15-inch profile will likely necessitate deep pocket sheets

    2. Multiple foam layers result in moderate off-gassing odors after unboxing

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Price Range

$1,004 – $2,143

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

The Nolah Evolution 15 is a luxury Euro-top hybrid with a balanced feel we found extremely effective at reducing back pain. The thick foam comfort system has an adaptive feel that closely contours to the body to alleviate pressure-prone areas, while the robust coil system helps you maintain healthy sleep posture.

How It Performed

The mattress is available in three firmness levels, each one suited to different types of sleepers. The medium (5) feel conformed closely to the body during our tests and appealed to side sleepers. The other two options, medium firm (6) and firm (8), felt more supportive and were most comfortable for back and stomach sleepers – especially those who weigh at least 130 pounds.

With pocketed coils and foam layers that are engineered to minimize heat retention, the bed should feel comfortable for hot sleepers compared to other foam hybrids we’ve tested. The coil system is also zoned to create added stability along the perimeter, so our testers felt relatively secure when they lay near the edges or got on and off the mattress.

What It’s Made of

The foam layers that make up the comfort system have an open-cell composition that helps reduce heatention, while the support core contains pocketed coils that circulate air throughout the interior. The entire mattress is also wrapped in a cover of proprietary ArcticTex fabric designed to offer instant cooling. Thanks to these features, the Evolution 15 should be suitable if you sleep hot or sweat during sleep.

Six standard sizes are available, as well as a split king size. Nolah offers free ground delivery throughout the contiguous U.S. The company’s sleep trial spans 120 nights in length and includes complimentary return shipping. However, you may opt out of the trial period to decrease upfront costs. All purchases are backed by a lifetime warranty that covers structural defects for as long as you retain ownership of the Evolution 15.

“The Leesa Sapira Hybrid is the quintessential hybrid mattress, offering plenty of support to please many types of sleepers without sacrificing cushioning. It’s a strong contender for co-sleepers seeking a well-balanced mattress.” — Logan Foley, Managing Editor

  • Pros

    1. Mix of foam and coils successfully balances pressure relief and support

    2. Medium firm feel suits couples with different body types

    3. Aerated foam and ventilated coils help prevent overheating

  • Cons

    1. Comfort system may be too soft for back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds

    2. Coils produce some motion transfer

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$1,349 – $2,299

Trial Period

100 nights (30 night requirement)

The Leesa Sapira Hybrid is a mixed-foam hybrid mattress that hits a sweet spot between cushioning and support. The medium firm (6) feel is an ideal middle ground for co-sleepers with different firmness preferences, and the design helps keep the surface cool for those prone to overheating.

How It Performed

One of the bed’s strongest features is pressure relief, due to generous cradling in the foam layers. That said, the coils offer plenty of support to keep you from sinking too deeply. This helps ensure your lower back and spine are properly aligned. The aerated design of the surface foam and the airflow through the coil system help keep heat retention at bay, so most of our testers awarded the bed high marks for temperature regulation.

The bed earned excellent ratings from side sleepers over 130 pounds, offering ample cushioning for the shoulders and hips while keeping the torso supported. Back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also found the bed comfortable.

What It’s Made of

The Sapira Hybrid begins with a polyfoam layer designed with perforations that promote airflow, which helps offset some of the heat retention that foam is known for. Beneath is a memory foam layer that offers deep cushioning, followed by a denser polyfoam layer that prevents uncomfortable sinkage. The support core contains pocketed coils with extra support around the perimeter to minimize sagging.

Leesa offers a 100-night sleep trial with your mattress purchase, and shipping is free to all 50 states. Your bed is further backed by a 10-year warranty.

“We highly recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid for couples who don’t wish to compromise on either motion isolation or responsiveness for sex. Motion-isolating foam layers and a bouncy coil support core earned the mattress high rankings in both of these performance categories.” – Colin Simpson, Research Manager

  • Pros

    1. Choice of three firmnesses lets sleepers with back pain choose their optimal support level

    2. Excellent support options for side and back sleepers in all weight groups

    3. Includes cooling features that may appeal to hot sleepers

  • Cons

    1. Noise from coils may disturb very light sleepers

    2. Luxury Plush option restricts movement

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Price Range

$1,231 – $2,548

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night break-in period)

Couples who value both motion isolation and responsiveness for sex can have difficulty finding a mattress that meets both of these criteria. The Bear Elite Hybrid is a quintessential foam hybrid that absorbs most movement and noise, while coils create a bouncy feel that’s easy to move across.

How It Performed

The mattress comes in three firmnesses – medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8) – ensuring a comfortable model for most of our testers. Our team’s side and back sleepers under 130 pounds enjoyed the softest feel’s extra cushioning. We found the medium firm model to be the most versatile. Side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds and back sleepers up to 230 pounds awarded this model the highest ratings. Our side sleepers over 230 pounds, back sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds, and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds enjoyed the firmest model’s supportive surface.

Motion isolation, responsiveness, and ease of movement were the Elite Hybrid’s standout features, but it also earned high marks in other key categories. All three firmness levels performed well in our temperature regulation tests, thanks to the cooling cover, aerated foams, and breathable support core. However, the hot sleepers on our team noted that the two firmer models ran slightly cooler than the softer one.

What It’s Made of

The Elite Hybrid’s comfort system begins with a top layer of copper-infused memory foam that adapts to the body to relieve pressure points. The copper infusion in this layer is engineered to conduct heat away from the body and dissipate it. Next is a polyfoam transitional layer with five zones meant to reduce sagging in the shoulders and midsection, while cradling the legs. This layer is aerated with small perforations to increase airflow.

Pocketed coils make up the support core, which created pushback for the hips and shoulders to prevent excessive sinkage during our tests. The coils rest on a polyfoam base layer to prevent shifting. A Celliant and polyester cover encases the mattress, and it’s infused with phase change material for enhanced cooling.

Bear ships free to the contiguous U.S. and offers a 365-night sleep trial, which is one of the longest in the industry. You can return a mattress for a full refund anytime after the 30-night break-in period. If you decide to keep the Bear Elite Hybrid, it is backed by a generous lifetime warranty.

“The Birch Luxe has a comfort system made with premium materials that cushion your body without compromising pushback from the coil base. This model stands apart from other hybrids we’ve tested by offering outstanding support without feeling too firm.” – Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Expert

  • Pros

    1. Coils promote strong ventilation

    2. Medium firm feel is versatile for all sleep positions

    3. Pocketed coils include zoned lumbar support

  • Cons

    1. Suboptimal motion isolation

    2. Premium price tag

Mattress Type

Latex Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$1,599 – $2,999

Trial Period

100 nights (30-night requirement)

The Birch Luxe is a hybrid model that pairs luxurious layers of wool and latex with a sturdy coil base. The result is a bed that gently cushions your body while maintaining ample support to ensure proper spinal alignment.

How It Performed

The mattress has a medium firm (6) feel that suited an impressive range of body types and personal preferences during testing. The moderate cushioning and responsive feel made it especially compatible for back and side sleepers over 130 pounds. Stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds also gave the bed high marks.

The plush surface helps relieve areas prone to pressure buildup, such as the shoulders and hips. Meanwhile, the responsive feel ensures against too much sinkage, making the surface easy to roll around on. The mattress is made with naturally cool materials that retain little heat and coils that enable strong ventilation, so the bed performed exceptionally well during our temperature neutrality tests.

What It’s Made of

The Birch Luxe has a quilted cotton cover followed by plush layers of breathable wool. A latex layer produces a slightly bouncy feel that lightly cradles your body but also pushes back to keep you well-supported. A thick layer of pocketed coils stabilizes the entire bed. The coils are zoned to provide enhanced support to heavier areas of the body such as your lumbar area and lighter support to your head and feet. The perimeter is lined with reinforced coils to boost support along the edges.

Birch offers free shipping throughout all 50 states, and you’ll receive a 100-night sleep trial to try out the mattress at home. The bed is also backed by a 25-year warranty.

“The Joybed LX is unlike many of the other mattresses we’ve tested. You don’t get the deep cushioning that foam or latex provides, but the surface feels exceptionally bouncy and the mattress offers top-notch cooling.” – Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing

  • Pros

    1. Comfort system combines breathable cotton, wool, and plant fibers

    2. Coil system provides bouncy support

    3. Firm feel is great for back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds

  • Cons

    1. Too firm for side sleepers under 130 pounds

    2. Returns include a $139 processing fee, plus a 10% deduction in the refunded mattress cost

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Firm (7)

Price Range

$495 – $1,490

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement, $139 processing fee)

The Joybed LX is an eco-friendly mattress that combines naturally breathable materials with the robust support of strong, individually pocketed coil springs. This solid support makes the mattress a great choice for stomach sleepers, preventing common issues with sagging and spinal misalignment.

How It Performed

The coil system and natural padding give the Joybed LX a firm (7) feel that suits the needs of sleepers of a wide variety of sizes and sleep positions. Back and stomach sleepers especially should find the blend of strong support and comfort that they need with this mattress. The pocketed coils provide a bouncy feel and a stable surface. The cotton and wool are both highly breathable, moisture-wicking materials that help keep the bed cool through the night, even for those who sleep hot.

What It’s Made of

Rather than using foams, the Joybed LX’s comfort system is made of a combination of layers of both organic cotton and organic wool. The lack of foam comfort layers means the Joybed LX avoids the common pitfalls of retaining heat and off-gassing foam odors. The support core contains springs that are able to respond to changes in pressure independently of each other, rather than compressing as a unit.

The cotton cover is Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified organic. All the natural materials used in the bed undergo multiple testing and certification programs to ensure the animals are raised responsibly and the cotton and wool are free of harmful chemicals and other substances. Lastly, the mattress employs a plant-based fire barrier rather than making use of a chemical flame retardant.

The Joybed LX ships for free to the contiguous U.S., while paid shipping may be available to Alaska and Hawaii. White Glove delivery along with old mattress removal are available for an additional fee. The mattress is backed by a 120-night sleep trial along with a 10-year warranty.

“If a responsive mattress sounds up your alley, the Real Bed should do the trick nicely. The latex and coils make the surface feel very bouncy. None of our testers had a hard time moving across the surface.” – Logan Foley, Managing Editor

  • Pros

    1. Firm feel is ideal for stomach sleepers over 130 pounds

    2. Robust coil layer provides significant bounce

    3. Wool and latex comfort system adds gentle cushioning

  • Cons

    1. Coil support core transfers a significant amount of motion

    2. May not provide enough pressure relief for side sleepers

Mattress Type

Latex Hybrid

Firmness Options

Firm (7)

Price Range

$899 – $1,589

Trial Period

100 nights

The Real Bed mattress combines a strong base of Powercore pocketed innerspring coils with multiple layers of latex, wool, and other natural and organic materials. The result is a hybrid innerspring model that provides a combination of support and pressure relief that best suits back sleepers.

How It Performed

The Real Bed’s construction makes it a solid choice for sleepers of all sizes and preferred sleeping positions, especially back and stomach sleepers. The coil core’s strong support and the bed’s firm (7) feel have broad appeal and meet the needs of a wide variety of sleepers. The multiple layers of latex and natural materials provide a responsive, moderate amount of contouring. A more responsive feel and coil support core also create a strong perimeter, allowing sleepers to lie closer to the edge. That being said, side sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds will likely find the bed a bit too firm and may want a model with deeper cradling.

What It’s Made of

The mattress is wrapped in a cover made of organic cotton with a breathable, eucalyptus-based rayon lining. Underneath the surface of the mattress is a layer of moisture-wicking wool, followed by a thick layer of bouncy natural latex. The core of the mattress is the Powercore spring unit, which is made of sturdy, individually pocketed coils. These coils provide a healthy degree of pushback and bounce, while also isolating motion to a greater extent than a traditional coil system. This support core rests on a base of more layers of natural latex, wool, and eucalyptus-based rayon.

The Real Bed ships free to the contiguous U.S., with paid shipping available to Alaska, Hawaii, and some international locales. White Glove delivery is available in many of the contiguous states for an additional fee. The mattress comes with a 100-night sleep trial period and a 10-year prorated warranty. The coil core unit is covered under a separate 25-year warranty.

Video: We Tested the Best Innerspring Mattresses of 2024 – Here Are Our Favorites

Watch the video below to get a close-up look at some of our top picks for best innerspring mattress.

What Is an Innerspring Mattress and Who Is It Best for?

A traditional innerspring mattress consists primarily of interconnected steel coils with a thin layer of cushioning beneath the cover. This results in a supportive, breathable, and bouncy sleep surface that makes it easy to move around and change positions. At the same time, traditional innersprings lack significant pressure relief and tend to transfer a significant amount of motion since the coils are connected to one another.

Modern hybrid mattresses, by contrast, typically use pocketed coils that are individually wrapped in fabric. This design helps limit motion transfer while still maintaining a responsive feel. Hybrids also feature thicker comfort systems with foam or latex layers that add cushioning and contouring for greater pressure relief.

Confusingly, some manufacturers use the term innerspring to refer to any mattress that contains steel coils. However, we’ve found that many of the best innerspring mattresses are innerspring in name only and have designs closer to the best hybrid mattresses, with pocketed coil support cores and comfort layers made from premium materials like memory foam, polyfoam, and natural latex.

“I sleep on a bed that’s got not one but two coil layers. I really appreciate the bounce and the airflow those layers provide. I’m a hot sleeper, and anything that can help with that is welcome.”
– Lauren Fountain, Senior Product Editor

What to Look For in an Innerspring Mattress

As with any new mattress, there are a few important factors to take into account when choosing an innerspring, including the following considerations.

Quality and Durability

Traditional innersprings are less durable than other mattress types, with an average lifespan of about six years. The coils in an innerspring mattress can wear down over time and lose their ability to spring back to their full, original height. When this happens, the mattress begins to sag and falter in supporting your body. Hybrid mattresses — innersprings with thicker comfort layers and pocketed coils — tend to last longer and have an average lifespan of six to eight years.

Temperature Control

For many innersprings, cooling is a major strength, with air circulating throughout the coil system to help the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature. Since traditional innersprings have thin comfort layers or just a thin layer of padding beneath the cover, there isn’t much heat retention on the surface. As a result, hot sleepers often find innersprings to be the most comfortable mattress type.

Coil Gauge and Count

Gauge refers to the coil’s thickness. Most innerspring coils fall between a gauge of 12.5 (thickest) to 17 (thinnest). The lower the gauge, the more robust and supportive the mattress will feel.

Most traditional innersprings contain between 400 and 1,200 individual coils in a queen size. Mattress brands often advertise the coil count of their innersprings, but we’ve found that the total number of coils does not play a significant role in how supportive a mattress feels, or how well it performs during tests.

Types of Coils

Although various coil designs are available, most traditional innersprings and hybrids sold today contain one or more of the following four mattress coil types.

Bonnell CoilsBonnell coils are molded into an hourglass shape and joined together with wires. This creates a strong support system that withstands compression well, but innersprings with Bonnell coils tend to feel very bouncy and may be disruptive for couples.
Continuous CoilsContinuous coils consist of thin wires running parallel to one another that are joined together on both sides by helical wires. Innersprings with this coil type tend to be quite durable and supportive, but contouring and pressure relief is limited. They’re also typically bouncier and creakier than offset coils.
Offset CoilsLike Bonnell coils, offset coils resemble an hourglass, but the top and bottom are flattened into a square shape to create a hinged effect when the mattress bears weight, making them both quieter and more responsive when pressure is applied. Offset coils are generally more expensive than Bonnell or continuous coils but cheaper than pocketed coils.
Pocketed CoilsPocketed coils are encased in fabric and are designed to move independently from one another, resulting in strong support without much motion transfer. Most hybrids contain pocketed coils, but they are also found in some luxury innerspring models.

Cushioning and Pressure Relief

Traditional innersprings contain thin cushioning layers and tend to be fairly firm, so contouring and pressure relief are not their strong suits. Hybrids with thicker comfort layers are a better option for people with pressure points who want more cushioning and a closer hug from their mattress.

Edge Support and Motion Isolation

Many innersprings excel at edge support because their thick, sturdy coils push back against your weight when you get in and out of bed. Those with low-gauge perimeter coils feel especially robust along the edges.

Innerspring coils tend to make the mattress feel quite bouncy, and their thin comfort layers don’t absorb movement well. As a result, motion isolation for most traditional innersprings is fair at best.

Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides

Still having a hard time deciding on a mattress model? Check out some of our other mattress picks selected by our team of product testers and sleep experts.

Data-Driven Results You Can Trust

Our team tests each mattress to determine its strengths, weaknesses, and defining qualities. Our testing team represents a wide range of sleep positions and body types to ensure our findings are inclusive of all sleepers, and we use the same comprehensive testing methodology for each mattress we evaluate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an innerspring mattress cost?

The average traditional innerspring costs between $500 and $1,200 in a queen size. Hybrids cost a bit more, with the average queen model priced between $1,000 and $3,000. Buying online tends to be cheaper than purchasing a mattress at a brick-and-mortar store.

Do you need to use a box spring with an innerspring mattress?

Historically, innerspring mattresses were designed to be paired with a box spring, which consists of a fabric-wrapped wooden frame filled with springs. Today, many mattresses containing innersprings can be used with any supportive bed frame or foundation. Always check the mattress warranty, as some models stipulate that only certain types of bases are acceptable.

How long does an innerspring mattress last?

Most traditional innersprings begin to sag after five or six years of continuous use, making them the least durable mattress type on average. Hybrids tend to last longer because of the extra cushioning layers between your body and the support core. Latex hybrids are especially long-lasting and can perform for eight years or longer if properly maintained.

What sleeping position is best for an innerspring mattress?

Since traditional innersprings don’t contain much cushioning material, they may not feel soft and adaptive enough for side sleepers. If you sleep on your side and own an innerspring, a mattress topper may provide the extra cushioning you need. Back and stomach sleepers typically don’t need as much padding and may find innersprings more comfortable as a result.

Are innerspring mattresses good for back pain?

Most innersprings are supportive enough to keep your body on an even plane, so pressure along the spine due to sinking into the mattress is less likely. However, most traditional innerspring comfort layers consist of thin padding material that may not provide enough cushioning and contouring for people with aches and pains in their shoulders, lower back, or hips.

Still have questions?

Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.

Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

Learn more about our Editorial Team

Trouble sleeping?

Answer these 5 easy questions to discover your perfect mattress

Trouble sleeping?

Answer these 5 easy questions to discover your perfect mattress

What position do you sleep in?

Side icon

Side

Side icon
Back icon

Back

Back icon
Stomach icon

Stomach

Stomach icon

Do you experience any pain while sleeping?

Back and/or side pain icon

Back and/or side pain

Back and/or side pain icon
Neck and/or shoulder pain icon

Neck and/or shoulder pain

Neck and/or shoulder pain icon
Little to no pain icon

Little to no pain

Little to no pain icon

Do you have any material preferences?

Innerspring icon

Innerspring

Innerspring icon
Foam icon

Foam

Foam icon
No preference/ Other icon

No preference/ Other

Do you sleep hot?

Yes icon

Yes

Yes icon
No icon

No

No icon

Do you sleep with a partner?

Yes icon

Yes

Yes icon
No icon

No

No icon

Back