What are pocket springs? A simple guide to better support and sleep

What are pocket springs?

Pocket springs are individual metal coils, each sewn into its own fabric ‘pocket’ and stitched together to form the core of a mattress. Unlike open coil units, where springs are a single unit, each pocket spring moves independently to provide more precise support and reduced partner disturbance. Comfort layers such as foam or wool sit above and around the springs to create the finished mattress.

How do pocket springs work?

Because each spring sits in its own pocket, it compresses on its own instead of dragging its neighbours with it. The mattress can therefore support and contour to different body types. Heavier areas, such as your hips and shoulders, compress more springs and more deeply, while lighter areas, such as your waist and lower legs, compress them less. This way, your weight is spread more evenly, and your spine stays better aligned, resulting in a lower chance of backache.

Key benefits of pocket sprung mattresses

1. Contouring and pressure relief

Pocket springs relieve pressure at the shoulders and hips and support the lower back more effectively than an open coil unit. This often means fewer pressure points and more natural alignment for most sleepers.

2. Less partner disturbance

Movement is absorbed locally rather than rippling across the bed, so partners disturb each other less than on a traditional open coil mattress. Meaning that when you turn over, only the springs directly under you respond so there’s less chance you’ll disturb your partner whilst they’re sleeping

3. Breathability

Pocket springs create air channels through the core, so they usually breathe better than all foam designs. This can help dissipate heat and reduce the sinking sensation associated with solid memory foam mattresses.

How many pocket springs do you really need?

Mattresses are marketed with anything from around 600 springs to well over 9,000. It’s important to remember: a higher spring count doesn’t automatically mean a mattress is “better” for you.

What higher counts do offer, particularly once mini comfort springs are added, is more refined contouring and a more tailored, responsive feel. But comfort still depends heavily on the quality of the springs, the comfort layers and the overall construction.

Pocket springs vs open coil – Which one is for you?

Open coil uses linked springs made from a single wire. It is cheaper to make but offers more basic support, more motion transfer and can be prone to dipping and sagging over time.

Pocket sprung mattresses usually provide better contouring, lower motion transfer and a more premium feel, and are often more durable – meaning you get more sleeps for your money!

For most people, especially couples or anyone seeking long-term comfort and support, a pocket sprung mattress is usually the stronger choice. What matters most is the overall build quality, the comfort layers, and choosing a tension that suits your body weight and sleeping position. Spring count can influence how finely a mattress contours, but it doesn’t determine comfort on its own. A well-designed mattress with thoughtful materials will always outperform one that relies on numbers alone.

At Sleepeezee we offer a variety of spring counts and fillings all tailored to different sleepers, take a look at our comfort guide to find the best one suited to you: Buy Pillows, Duvets, Mattress Protectors | Shop at Sleepeezee UK