Quick Answer
An open coil mattress, also called an innerspring mattress, feels bouncier and more responsive than foam, with a firmer, more supportive base and a distinct sense of springiness when you press down or move on it. The coils are connected in a single interlinked unit, which gives strong overall support but transfers more motion across the mattress than individually pocketed springs or foam.
What Makes Open Coil Different
Open coil, or Bonnell coil, mattresses use a network of hourglass-shaped springs connected together with wire, forming one interlinked support structure across the whole mattress. This is different from pocket sprung mattresses, where each spring sits in its own individual fabric pocket and moves independently. The connected structure of open coil springs is what gives them their particular feel.
How It Feels to Lie On
- Firmer overall support, since the connected coil structure resists sinking in as much as foam or pocket springs
- Noticeably bouncier, with a springy responsiveness that some people find comfortable and others find too firm
- More motion transfer, since the connected springs mean movement on one side of the bed is more likely to be felt on the other side
- Less body contouring, as the mattress pushes back rather than moulding closely to the body’s shape
- Often cooler to sleep on, since the open structure between coils allows air to circulate more freely than dense foam
Open Coil vs Pocket Sprung vs Memory Foam
| Open Coil | Pocket Sprung | Memory Foam | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Support feel | Firm, connected structure | Contoured, independent support | Close, moulded contouring |
| Motion isolation | Low, connected coils transfer movement | Moderate to good, springs move independently | Excellent |
| Bounce | High | Moderate | Low |
| Typical price | Usually the cheapest option | Mid to higher priced | Varies, often mid-priced |
| Best suited to | Those who prefer a firm, traditional feel and sleep alone | Those who want contouring with some bounce, and share a bed | Those who want close contouring and minimal motion transfer |
Spring Counts: A Quick Way to Spot the Difference
UK open coil mattresses typically use around 300 to 500 interconnected springs, while pocket sprung mattresses commonly range from 600 up to 5,000 or more individually pocketed springs. As a rough rule, the higher spring count in a pocket sprung mattress reflects its more advanced, independently responsive construction, which is part of why it tends to cost more.
Who Tends to Prefer an Open Coil Mattress
People who grew up with, or are used to, a traditional firmer mattress feel often find open coil mattresses familiar and comfortable. They also tend to suit people who sleep on their back or front, where a firmer, less contouring surface can help keep the spine in a neutral position. Anyone sharing a bed with a restless partner may notice more disturbance from movement compared with pocket sprung or foam alternatives.
Durability and Lifespan
Open coil mattresses are generally considered less durable over time than pocket sprung or higher quality foam mattresses, since the connected coil structure can develop a sagging or dipping feel as springs weaken with years of use. Most open coil mattresses are budget to mid-range products, which is reflected in both the price and the expected lifespan, typically somewhat shorter than premium pocket sprung or foam alternatives.
Is an Open Coil Mattress Right for You?
- Good fit if: you want a firm, traditional feel, are on a tighter budget, or sleep mostly alone
- Possibly not ideal if: you share a bed and are sensitive to motion transfer, or you prefer a softer, more contouring surface
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an open coil mattress the same as a spring mattress?
Yes, open coil is a type of spring mattress, specifically one using connected Bonnell-style coils rather than individually pocketed springs.
Are open coil mattresses good for back pain?
They can suit people who prefer firmer support, though those with more localised pressure point pain sometimes find pocket sprung or foam options more comfortable.
Do open coil mattresses sag over time?
They can develop a dipping feel over years of use as the connected coil structure weakens, generally sooner than higher quality pocket sprung or foam alternatives.
Are open coil mattresses noisy?
Some open coil mattresses can develop a slight creak or squeak over time as the metal coils and connecting wire age, more so than pocket sprung designs.
Is open coil cheaper than pocket sprung?
Generally yes, open coil mattresses tend to sit at the more affordable end of spring mattress options.