What Is The Difference Between Mattress Types?

July 23, 2018

Are all mattresses made alike? Far from it. Between sizes, styles, and designs, mattress types can have dramatically different effects on the way we sleep. The problem is that it can be hard to identify the best mattress for your individual needs. So what is the difference between mattress types? We’ve put together a guide to a range of mattresses to help you as you shop.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Considered to be a medium-to-firm option, memory foam has grown in popularity in recent years thanks to its comfort. Thanks to the makeup of this material, it’s easier to sleep soundly on one side of the bed, even if someone is tossing and turning on the other side.

Memory foam mattresses, however, do have some disadvantages. They tend to hold in heat, which makes it harder to get a cool night’s sleep in the warm seasons. That’s why it’s important to find a “cool-touch mattress”, as it provides all the support and distraction-free comfort of a memory foam mattress without this warming effect.

Spring & Coil Mattresses

Spring or “coil” mattresses are often what people think of when they think of mattresses. These traditional designs offer plenty of support, though cheaply-made spring mattresses rely on fewer springs and typically provide a lumpier, less consistent experience. High-quality spring mattresses, on the other hand, offer minimal motion transfer from one side of the bed to the other.

Innerspring mattresses can get very hot and uncomfortable, especially those with thick “comfort” layers that can trap heat inside of the mattress. Another downside is that the springs make it impossible for manufacturers to include gel-infused cooling systems in these mattresses. Innerspring mattresses are typically more prone to storing dust mites and allergens as well.

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses can be made using natural materials, synthetic materials or a blend of both. Generally speaking, these mattresses are attractive to health-conscious customers, especially when the latex is made from natural, organic materials. That’s because they are hypoallergenic and typically free of carcinogens and chemical off-gassing. Learn more about the benefits of latex mattresses.

Waterbeds

Though water beds have mostly gone out of style, they’re still widely available and popular among “back-sleepers.” While they offer very little support or firmness, they do provide a flowing quality that many people find comfortable. Water can also help dissipate body heat as it circulates, which in turn helps provide a cooler sleep. 

Gel Mattresses

A gel mattress—typically gel added to a foam mattress—includes an additional layer of gel to help body heat dissipate. The gel also offers a different sensation, which can be appealing to anyone who wants a soft, comfortable sleep.

The layer of gel does change the overall design of the memory foam mattress. The gel doesn’t have the same “memory” as memory foam, which means it can also provide a consistent experience night in and night out.

Choosing the Right Mattress For You

How do you get the advantages you want—even if you find it hard to identify one mattress type that can give you the experience you need?

Look for a hybrid mattress. At Swift Bed, we offer a hybrid cool-touch mattress that incorporates latex, memory foam and cooling gel. Enjoy heat dissipation with the support and comfort of a foam mattress. Order your Swift Bed today, and enjoy free shipping in a conveniently sized box that can be easily moved into any living space!

If you’re still on the fence about what type of mattress to buy, browse our other blog posts:

• WHAT IS A HYBRID MATTRESS? THE NEXT BIG SLEEP CRAZE!
• LATEX MATTRESSES AND ALLERGIES - EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
• THE ULTIMATE MEMORY FOAM MATTRESS BUYER’S GUIDE
• LATEX VS GEL MEMORY FOAM MATTRESS
• LATEX VS INNERSPRING MATTRESS—WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
• THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LATEX & MEMORY FOAM MATTRESSES

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