Best Innerspring Mattress
By Sarah Anderson, Certified Sleep Science Coach 
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Innerspring mattresses are one of the oldest and most popular beds on the market. They’re often made from steel springs and a padded pillow top filled with feathers or cotton. Innerspring beds stay relevant for their support and breathability compared to newer beds. They also provide cushioning comparable to foam mattresses, so there’s a lot to love about them. Our guide goes over the best innerspring mattress and how to choose the right bed for you. We researched and analyzed the design and found that Zoma Start offers a balance of support, breathability, and responsiveness. The mattress features an innovative coil system that adapts to your body, providing both pressure relief and support where needed. Our testers noted how the coil base works to keep the spine aligned, which is crucial for reducing back pain during sleep. Additionally, the breathable top layer allows for better airflow, keeping sleepers cool throughout the night. The Zoma Start’s construction is geared toward athletes and active individuals, as it promotes muscle recovery, which is why we think it’s perfect for anyone looking to wake up refreshed and energized. Based on our testing, we believe this mattress delivers reliable performance at a budget-friendly price, making it a fantastic option for sleepers of all types. Optimal Support for Active Sleepers Its coil system ensures targeted support and pressure relief, especially for those who often wake up with muscle tension. During our tests, we found that the Zoma Start is designed to help sleepers recover faster, thanks to its ergonomic design that focuses on spinal alignment and muscle recovery. Cooling Comfort at an Affordable Price Our team chose this mattress for its excellent breathability and temperature regulation. Despite its affordability, the Zoma Start doesn’t skimp on quality. The breathable top layer ensures cool and comfortable sleep, something our testers particularly appreciated during warmer nights. The Zoma Start offers a balanced feel that blends medium-firm support with just enough softness to make sleep comfortable for a variety of sleepers. Our testers found the mattress particularly supportive in the lumbar region, making it a great choice for back and side sleepers alike. The responsive coils give a bit of bounce, allowing easy movement without sinking too deeply. One reviewer, James R., commented, “I love the support this mattress provides. It feels firm where I need it, but soft enough to keep me comfortable all night. I wake up with less back pain, and the cooling feature is a big plus!” Our testers put the Vaya Hybrid to the test, and we were impressed by its blend of comfort, support, and durability. After analyzing its performance, we believe this mattress offers excellent value for anyone seeking a balanced hybrid mattress at an affordable price point. The Vaya Hybrid combines responsive coils with soft, contouring foam, providing both pressure relief and the bounce needed for easy movement. Our team found that the mattress offers good edge support and minimal motion transfer, making it ideal for couples. Additionally, the foam layers help promote cooling, allowing for a cooler sleep environment throughout the night. With its medium firmness, the Vaya Hybrid caters to a wide range of sleepers, from side sleepers to back sleepers. Balanced Comfort for All Sleepers Our testers appreciated the combination of foam and coils, which offers the right amount of cushioning while still providing ample support. The medium firmness strikes a balance that suits a wide range of preferences. Excellent Motion Isolation for Couples Our team found that even with its springy coil base, the foam layers absorb most motion, making it a fantastic choice for couples. Our testers describe the feel of the Vaya Hybrid as a perfect balance between soft comfort and firm support. The foam layers provide gentle contouring, while the coils ensure enough bounce and responsiveness for easy movement. The mattress offers excellent pressure relief for side sleepers while also supporting back sleepers with proper spinal alignment. This versatile feel makes it suitable for a variety of sleepers. Sarah K., one of our reviewers, mentioned, “I love how the Vaya Hybrid feels both soft and supportive at the same time. I don’t feel stuck in the mattress, and I wake up without any aches or stiffness.” We analyzed Amerisleep AS3 Hybrid construction and performance and concluded that this mattress offers the perfect mix of foam and coils for a wide range of sleepers. The Bio-Pur® foam used in the top layer provides excellent pressure relief while remaining breathable and responsive, keeping sleepers cool and supported throughout the night. Our testers also highlighted the individually wrapped coils that offer targeted support and motion isolation, making it ideal for couples. Whether you’re a side, back, or combination sleeper, the AS3 Hybrid adapts to your needs, providing medium firmness that balances softness with support. Pressure Relief and Responsive Support We chose the Amerisleep AS3 Hybrid because of its unique combination of pressure-relieving Bio-Pur® foam and responsive coils. Our testers noted how well it adapts to different body types and sleeping styles, offering both contouring and bounce. Cooling Technology for Hot Sleepers The breathable Bio-Pur® foam and the coil layer work together to promote airflow and prevent overheating, making this mattress a great pick for hot sleepers. The Amerisleep AS3 Hybrid feels like a well-balanced mattress, combining both softness and support in a medium firmness. Our testers found the Bio-Pur® foam contouring, yet responsive, providing immediate comfort while maintaining proper spinal alignment. The coil system adds a touch of bounce without compromising motion isolation, which is great for couples. Sleepers of all types—whether side, back, or stomach—will find something to appreciate in this mattress. Reviewer Mike H. said, “The AS3 Hybrid strikes the perfect balance for me. It’s supportive but not too firm, and I never wake up overheated. It’s honestly the most comfortable mattress I’ve tried.” After researching and analyzing its construction and performance, we believe this mattress is ideal for those who want a tailored sleep experience. The Sparrow Hybrid combines supportive coils with foam layers to provide both comfort and durability. What sets it apart is its flexibility—our team noted that the mattress is available in three different firmness levels, so sleepers can choose what suits them best. Additionally, its comfort layers are designed to reduce motion transfer, making it a good choice for couples. The cooling features, enhanced by breathable foam and the airflow-promoting coil system, make it suitable for those who tend to sleep hot. Customizable Firmness Levels We selected the Nest Bedding Sparrow Hybrid for its unique offering of customizable firmness levels—plush, medium, and firm—ensuring that it caters to a wide range of sleepers. Great for Couples and Motion Isolation Our team picked this mattress due to its excellent motion isolation, which is a key feature for couples. The foam layers effectively absorb motion, while the individually wrapped coils prevent movement from transferring across the bed, allowing for uninterrupted sleep. The Sparrow Hybrid has a versatile feel that can be customized based on the firmness level you choose, whether it’s plush, medium, or firm. Our testers noted that the medium option offers an ideal balance of contouring and support, making it comfortable for various sleeping positions. The memory foam cradles the body, while the coils provide enough bounce and responsiveness to prevent that “stuck” feeling. Reviewer Lisa R. commented, “I love how the Sparrow Hybrid feels—it’s soft enough to relieve pressure points, but I still feel supported throughout the night. I also don’t wake up overheated, which is a big plus for me.” Our testers spent significant time evaluating the Saatva Classic, and we were impressed by its luxurious feel, support, and thoughtful construction. After researching and analyzing this innerspring mattress, we believe it offers an exceptional balance of comfort and durability. What stood out to our team was the dual coil system, which combines a durable steel base coil layer with individually wrapped coils that provide responsive support. Additionally, the plush Euro pillow top adds a touch of luxury, offering comfort without sacrificing support. We also noted that the Saatva Classic comes in three firmness levels, allowing sleepers to choose the feel that best suits their needs. The use of eco-friendly materials and the reinforced edge support makes this mattress an excellent choice for a wide variety of sleepers, including those who need more support or tend to sleep hot. Superior Support and Spine Alignment Our testers found the combination of two coil layers provided firm, targeted support that helped alleviate pressure points and keep the spine in proper alignment, which is crucial for side and back sleepers alike. Eco-Friendly and Durable Construction From the organic cotton cover to the recycled steel coils, we believe this mattress offers both sustainability and durability, ensuring a long-lasting sleep solution that doesn’t compromise on comfort. The Saatva Classic offers a luxurious, hotel-quality feel that strikes a balance between comfort and support. Our testers found the Euro pillow top adds softness, while the dual coil system delivers robust support, making it ideal for all sleep positions. Whether you prefer the plush, luxury firm, or firm option, the Saatva Classic adapts to your needs without compromising on spine alignment. This mattress also sleeps cool, thanks to the breathable pillow top and airflow through the coil layers. One of our reviewers, Karen M., noted, “The Saatva Classic is the most supportive mattress I’ve tried. I love the plush top, but I wake up without any of the back pain I used to have, which makes all the difference!” After analyzing its construction and performance, we believe the Big Fig excels in providing long-lasting support without sacrificing comfort. This mattress combines high-density foam with a sturdy coil system, ensuring that it maintains its shape and support over time, even for heavier individuals. Our team found that the Big Fig offers excellent edge support, preventing sagging around the edges, which can be a common issue for other mattresses. Additionally, the ThermoGel cooling technology integrated into the cover helps keep sleepers cool throughout the night. Specifically Designed for Plus-Sized Sleepers Our testers found that the mattress provides consistent support and comfort without sinking or sagging, making it an ideal choice for those who require a mattress built to last. Exceptional Durability and Edge Support The Big Fig’s combination of high-density foams and a durable coil system makes it a standout for long-term use. During our research, we found that it maintained its shape and support even after months of testing. Our testers noted that while the mattress is firm, it still offers excellent contouring around the body, providing comfort without feeling too stiff. The individually wrapped coils add responsiveness, making it easy to move without feeling stuck. Despite its firmness, the multiple layers of foam cushion the body and provide pressure relief for areas like the hips and shoulders. Reviewer John P. commented, “I’ve tried many mattresses that just weren’t built to last for me, but the Big Fig has been a game changer. It’s firm, supportive, and I don’t wake up hot anymore.” Our testers thoroughly evaluated the Zoma Hybrid mattress, and after researching its design and performance, we found it to be a standout option for athletes and active individuals. The Zoma Hybrid blends memory foam comfort with responsive coils, making it both supportive and adaptive. Our team was particularly impressed with the mattress’s zoned support, which targets different areas of the body for enhanced spinal alignment and pressure relief. We also noted the excellent breathability and cooling capabilities, thanks to the combination of gel-infused memory foam and a coil system that promotes airflow. The Zoma Hybrid is medium-firm, which our testers found to be a versatile option for a wide range of sleepers. Whether you’re recovering from a workout or simply need a mattress that provides both comfort and support, the Zoma Hybrid excels in delivering a refreshing, restorative night’s sleep. Targeted Support for Active Lifestyles We chose the Zoma Hybrid because of its unique zoned support, which our team found particularly beneficial for athletes or those with active lifestyles. The mattress’s construction helps relieve pressure on sensitive areas like the shoulders and hips while offering firmer support for the lower back, promoting better spinal alignment. Breathable and Cooling Design The combination of gel-infused memory foam and the airflow-enhancing coil system keeps sleepers cool throughout the night, making it a great choice for hot sleepers or those in warmer climates. The Zoma Hybrid has a medium-firm feel, making it suitable for a variety of sleeping positions. Our testers noted that the top layer of memory foam conforms to the body, providing pressure relief in key areas, while the Reactiv™ transition layer and coil system add bounce and support. The zoned support was particularly beneficial for spinal alignment, making the mattress ideal for those who experience back or joint pain. One of our reviewers, Sarah J., commented, “The Zoma Hybrid has been a game-changer for my sleep. It’s comfortable, supportive, and I wake up feeling refreshed and pain-free after tough workouts.” Our testers thoroughly examined the Organica mattress, and we found it to be an excellent choice for eco-conscious sleepers who also seek comfort and support. After researching and analyzing its natural materials and performance, we believe the Organica offers a perfect blend of eco-friendly construction and quality design. The mattress features a hybrid construction with natural latex and an innerspring coil system, offering both responsiveness and support. Our team was impressed with how the mattress’s organic wool and cotton cover not only enhances breathability but also provides a soft, luxurious feel. The use of natural materials, combined with zoned support from the coils, ensures that the mattress promotes proper spinal alignment while remaining environmentally responsible. In our tests, we found that the Organica performs well for a variety of sleep positions, especially for those who prioritize sustainability and comfort. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Materials We chose the Organica for its commitment to using organic, sustainable materials. Our testers appreciated that the mattress is crafted from 100% natural latex, organic wool, and cotton, making it a top choice for environmentally conscious sleepers. Zoned Support for Enhanced Comfort Our team picked the Organica due to its excellent zoned coil system, which provides targeted support and pressure relief. The mattress offers firm support in areas where you need it most, such as the lower back, while offering a softer feel for the shoulders and hips. The Organica mattress offers a medium-firm feel that strikes a perfect balance between support and comfort. Our testers noticed that the natural latex provides a responsive, bouncy surface, making it easy to move around on the mattress without feeling stuck. The zoned coil system enhances spinal alignment, particularly for side and back sleepers, while the organic wool and cotton layers promote breathability and temperature regulation. Reviewer Emily S. commented, “I love that the Organica feels supportive without being too firm. Plus, knowing it’s made with natural materials makes me feel even better about my choice.” When shopping for an innerspring bed, there are several key points to look for. Compare different coil types, coil counts, and comfort layers. The type of coils in your innerspring mattress affect how it performs and how long the bed will last. Still, coil type isn’t the end-all-be-all of finding a good innerspring mattress. The four main types of coil systems are Bonnell, offset, continuous, and pocketed: Coil count is useful to determine what innerspring mattress is most supportive. Coil count refers to how many coils are in a single mattress and will vary depending on how a mattress’s size. For a queen size mattress, you can expect to see somewhere around 1000 coils inside of it. Generally, more coils equal a better mattress, but this isn’t always the case. Some brands may inflate the number of coils in their beds by using thin, low-quality coils. So, don’t use coil count as your only factor when choosing a bed. If you’re unsure whether a mattress has high-quality coils, refer to its coil type. The top layers in traditional innerspring mattresses are usually pillow tops or Euro tops. A pillow top is a comfort layer sewn on top of an innerspring mattress. They’re easy to identify since they look like large pillows on your bed. There’s also an indent between the pillow top and the rest of the bed. Pillow tops are made from fibrous materials such as down, organic cotton, wool, or feathers. One of the issues with pillow tops is that they may shift out of place with time. So, another comfort layer option is the Euro top. Unlike pillow tops, Euro tops are sewn under the mattress’s cover and are flush with the rest of the layers. Not only does it look nicer, but the comfort layer is less likely to shift out of place this way. Euro tops are made from foam or foam blends. Nothing beats the support and breathability of an innerspring mattress. You may want an innerspring mattress for the support, springiness, low cost, or cool feel. Innerspring mattresses provide a supportive sleeping surface thanks to their sturdy coils. Proper spinal support is crucial when sleeping to prevent pain, stiffness, and discomfort. Poor spinal alignment also disrupts your sleep, leaving you fatigued when waking up. Since innerspring mattresses are made up of steel coils, there’s a lot of space for air to flow. Good airflow prevents the mattress from overheating, keeping you cool while you sleep. A cool mattress is less likely to form mold or mildew, meaning you can use it for longer. Innerspring beds are one of the most affordable mattress options across the board. While you can find luxury innerspring mattresses, there are also budget innerspring mattresses. An innerspring mattress can cost as little as $100 or up to $2000 or more. Generally, you can get a good, queen size innerspring bed for around $500. See our guide on how much a mattress costs for an in-depth comparison of the main types of mattresses. One of the great things about innerspring beds is their bounce and adaptability. They respond well under your body weight, but won’t leave you feeling unable to move in bed. Restless sleepers will enjoy how they can roll around without feeling “stuck.” While anyone can use an innerspring bed, there are several groups that do best on these beds. This includes hot sleepers, back pain sufferers, and large people. Innerspring beds are popular for how cool they stay throughout the night. Air flows through each coil, preventing you and the mattress from getting hot while you sleep. After all, a cool environment is optimal for deep, undisturbed sleep. While foam mattresses are breathable, innerspring mattresses are one of the most reliable cooling mattress for hot sleepers. If you deal with chronic back pain, the high support of an innerspring mattress may help you. The coils in innerspring beds provide excellent spinal support to reduce back pain. Innerspring beds have comfort layers to prevent any tightness around your lower back. However, some sleepers may prefer another type of bed when seeking a mattress for back pain. For many, a memory foam mattress for back pain is an affordable and comfortable way to reduce pain. When seeking a mattress for back pain, always be sure to consider mattress firmness. The ideal firmness level to reduce pain varies based on your sleeping position. For instance, back sleepers are most comfortable on medium-firm beds. Similarly, stomach sleepers should consider firm options. Heavier people often sink into foam mattresses, leaving them feeling unsupported and uncomfortable. Innerspring mattresses keep plus-sized people lifted and prevent the bed from “bottoming out.” Beds generally offer more support than other beds, which larger people need when shopping for a mattress for heavy sleepers. People usually use box springs with their innerspring beds, but this isn’t necessary. Low profile box springs are boxes that absorb shock, prevent wear, and help your mattress last. They also lift your mattress up for people who prefer high-profile beds. If you only have a traditional bed frame, you’ll need a box spring for your innerspring mattress. However, if you have a platform bed, a solid foundation, or a slatted foundation, you can skip the box spring. You can place box springs over these foundations for added height, but it isn’t necessary. Yes, innerspring mattresses work on slatted foundations and platform beds with slats. Generally, the slats should be no more than 2 to 3 inches apart to support your innerspring mattress. Review your manufacturer’s warranty and see what foundations they approve for your innerspring bed. Using the wrong foundation is the easiest way to void your warranty. Yes, all mattresses sag with age, including innerspring mattresses. After 6 to 8 years, your innerspring bed may develop an indent towards the center, feel lumpy, soft, and yes, saggy. No mattress lasts forever when you use it nightly. If you notice your new innerspring bed sagging within a few months, it’s likely defective. Most warranties cover sags, so reach out to the manufacturer to have it repaired or replaced. There’s no definitive answer to whether innerspring or foam mattresses are better. The best mattress type is ultimately subjective. Foam mattresses last longer than innerspring mattresses (8 to 10 years versus 6 to 8 years). Still, many people prefer the bounce and cooler feel of an innerspring bed. Conversely, other people prefer the pressure relief of memory foam mattresses. Innerspring and foam mattresses have different price ranges and all types of firmnesses. While hybrids and innerspring mattresses may seem similar, they have several key differences. Hybrid beds must contain pocketed coils and foam layers thicker than 2 inches. Innerspring beds might contain pocketed coils and don’t always contain foam. Hybrid and innerspring mattresses last around 6 to 8 years. Even then, hybrid mattresses are much costlier than innerspring ones. The traditional innerspring mattress holds a special place in many people’s hearts. If you want an innerspring bed, look for one with durable coils and a sturdy comfort layer to ensure it’ll last as long as possible. Use our guide as a resource when comparing different innerspring mattresses so you find the best one for you. This article is for informational purposes and should not replace advice from your doctor or other medical professional. Sarah Anderson is a sleep, health, and wellness writer and product reviewer. She has written articles on changing and improving your sleep schedule, choosing the right mattress for chronic pain conditions, and finding the best pillow for you. Sarah Anderson has her Bachelor of Arts degree from Arizona State University in Journalism and Mass Communications. Prior to working for Zoma, she wrote for a variety of news publications. Sarah's work has been featured on Bustle, PureWow, and other publications.Buying Guide for Best Innerspring Mattress
Best Mattress Overall
1. Zoma Boost
Best Value Mattress
2. Vaya Hybrid
Best Cooling Mattress
3. Amerisleep AS3 Hybrid
Best for Couples Mattress
4. Nest Bedding Sparrow Hybrid
Best Luxury Mattress
5. Saatva Classic
Best For Heavy People
6. Big Fig
Best Mattress In A Box
7. Zoma Hybrid
Best Latex Mattress
8. Amerisleep Organica
What to Look For in an Innerspring Mattress
Coil Type
Coil Count
Comfort Layer
Benefits of an Innerspring Mattress
Supportive
Breathable
Affordable
Responsive
Who Should Use an Innerspring Mattress?
Hot Sleepers
People With Back Pain
Plus-Sized People
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an innerspring mattress need a box spring?
Can you put an innerspring mattress directly on slats?
Do innerspring mattresses sag?
Are innerspring mattresses better than foam mattresses?
What’s the difference between innerspring mattresses and hybrid mattresses?
Conclusion
Sarah Anderson, Certified Sleep Science Coach
