Latex Mattress vs. Spring Mattress

If you are thinking about purchasing a new mattress, you might be asking yourself what options do I have. With all the types available these days, finding the perfect one that suits your needs might actually be a daunting task.

Two of the most popular options are the latex and the spring models (also known as innerspring models). Keep in mind that these two have very different properties.

Most people are used to traditional coil models, but it might actually be a good opportunity to take advantage of latex mattresses. Either way, it is important to know the basic differences between these two options and their benefits before making your decision and purchasing one.

So, which one is actually better? Read our guide and find out everything you need to know. Last updated Jan 12, 2022 @ 6:35 pm

Latex Mattress

A latex mattress, as its name implies, is made of a specific kind of material: latex. You cannot find any coils or springs in it.

So what is it? Basically, it is a natural and eco-friendly product obtained from the sap of rubber trees. The sap is then processed to create mattress blocks.

These blocks have natural springiness and provide good spinal support. They give you that soft yet very supportive feel. A latex model provides natural bounciness, without the springs or coils.

(Note that there is also synthetic latex and artificial latex that is made with SBR – Styrene Butadiene Rubber. However, in this comparison, we will be focusing on natural latex models only.)

Because latex is highly breathable due to its natural open cell structure, these types of mattresses are ideal for places with warm and humid climates. Plus, they contain pinholes in them that further enhance natural airflow.

Latex models are also dust-mite and mold resistant without the aid of chemicals. In contrast, spring models often include specific chemicals for these sole purposes.

They are relatively more expensive than spring models. However, that doesn’t seem to be an issue considering they are very durable and will last a long time. They have been proven to retain their comfort and softness over a long period of time without sagging.

Coil/ Innerspring Mattress

A spring coil model, also called an innerspring mattress, or a hybrid coil, is made up of metal coils that are surrounded by soft and supportive foams. The main purpose of these coils is to provide that bouncy feel while maintaining the softness and comfort that a foam model provides.

These models differ from one another in terms of the number of coils used which affects the comfort. Some use micro coils, some use individual coils encased in a “pocket” of fabric – also known as a pocketed coil mattress – which helps evenly distribute weight and also enable the creation of different support zones.

There are also other factors that determine how cozy a spring coil model is. These factors include the coil sizes, the metal gauge from which these coils are made, the foam padding thickness, and a lot more.

Latex vs. Innerspring Mattress Feel

Latex Mattress Feel

When lying down on a latex model, the first thing you will notice is a feeling of being supported yet not sinking down into the mattress like you would a memory foam option. Some call this sensation “sleeping on” vs. “sleeping in” your mattress, and is often a personal preference.

You will also notice how firm, yet comfortable, the support of a latex model is. This is one of the reasons why these mattresses are so popular.

Latex options are also good for those suffering from chronic back pain. The combination of cushion, yet firmness, can greatly help relieve pain.

Moreover, medical professionals often recommend these mattresses for ability to keep the spine naturally aligned regardless of your preferred sleeping position.

Innerspring Mattress Feel

As for the innerspring mattresses, as soon as you lay down in a bed, you will feel how the top comfort layers combined with the coil system below work together to lift your body weight and provide you with all the comfort and support you need for a comfortable and pain-free night’s sleep.

If this type of a mattress works well for you, just make sure that you choose one that is well-made and built of the highest-quality materials. That way, you won’t end up feeling the springs that are inside the mattress when you lie down.

Be aware that as these mattresses age, their foam layers will start to show signs of wear and tear. The foam layer on top of this type of mattress tend to break down.

As a result, with some traditional coil mattresses, you may end up feeling the spring coils poking you as you.

The Advantages of Latex vs. Innerspring Mattresses

Latex Mattress

Exceptional comfort – They perform over and above any other types of mattresses in the industry. Both the support and the soft comfort of the latex material are proven to relieve chronic back pain.

Movement Isolation – They do not easily transmit movement between the partners, so you won’t feel any disruption in your sleep.

Natural – Because latex is generally a natural product, models made from this material do not contain any form of harsh chemicals.

Naturally mold and dust mite resistant – No chemicals are required to keep the mattresses away from these common problems.

Sleeps cool – Latex is breathable, thanks to its open cell structure. It allows greater airflow through the mattress and the special pinholes strategically inserted around the mattress aid in this.

Longevity – They are highly durable and can last longer.

Orthopedic Benefits – These mattresses provide great pressure relief and will keep your spine properly aligned regardless of the position you choose to sleep in.

Spring Mattress

Low-priced – They start at relatively low prices. However, the high-end hybrid coil mattresses can be just as costly as other types of mattresses.

Easy-to-find – Because spring mattresses are considered the most popular type, you won’t have a hard time finding a suitable one to try.

Lightweight – In general, the weight of a spring mattress can vary, depending on the materials and construction. But the basic ones are moderately light-weight and allow you to easily turn them when necessary.

Wide Range of Options – Because of their popularity, you can find a huge array of spring models with different firmness levels.

The Disadvantages

Latex Mattress

Expensive – These mattresses, and especially 100% natural latex models are generally going to be a lot more expensive as compared to other types of mattresses.

Heavy – Because they are made from 100% latex, these mattresses are much heavier than conventional innerspring models.

Spring Mattress

Short lifetime – In most cases, the layer that tears down rather quickly in a spring model is the top comfort layer. When this happens, you may feel the springs poking you through the foam and mattress cover. Also, one reason why a spring model has a shorter lifespan is because it slowly sags over time.

Noisy Springs – It is common to hear noises from innerspring mattresses in response to movements. That’s why you may hear clunking sounds and annoying squeaking.

Summary

When it comes to choosing and buying a new mattress, latex is generally regarded to be a better choice than a traditional spring option.

While the basic spring models are reasonably priced and a lot of people have them, this type of mattress just does not perform so well as the latex one does.

The newer, hybrid coil mattresses that combine springs with foam and latex, however, can be good choice for those who want the advantages of both. A latex model may be pricey, but it will last much longer than a spring model.

If you go for the high-end all spring model, you are basically buying it for its luxurious cover and materials, but these often do not offer better comfort than your traditional low-end spring beds.

Nevertheless, spring mattresses are still very good, but not as good as the latex mattresses when you compare them. In terms of comfort, latex mattresses are often the best choice.

Additionally, they deliver other benefits that you cannot find in spring mattresses. In humid areas where mold and dust are prevalent, having a latex model is a great thing.

All in all, latex models have more advantages and fewer disadvantages compared to the more common and less expensive spring/innerspring models. This is the reason why latex mattresses have very high owner satisfaction ratings.

At the end of the day, everything depends on your personal choices. Choose a model that will suit not only your desires, but also your needs.

Whether you go for the pricier latex mattress, or settle for the less expensive spring-made ones, or choose a combination of the two and, all that matters is that you pick the mattress that will help you sleep get a quality night’s sleep.