Pocket Sprung vs Open Coil vs Memory Foam: How to Choose a Mattress in the UK
Your mattress affects your sleep more than any other part of your bed. With so many types available, it can be hard to know where to start. This guide explains the main UK mattress types in plain English and helps you choose the right one.
Open coil mattresses
Open coil (also called continuous or Bonnell spring) mattresses use a single unit of connected springs. Because the springs are linked, they move together.
- Pros: affordable, firm and supportive, often flippable.
- Cons: more movement transfer between partners, less body contouring.
- Best for: guest rooms, children's beds and people who like a firm, traditional feel.
Try our Royal Ortho Open Coil Mattress or Orthopaedic Mattress.
Pocket sprung mattresses
In a pocket sprung mattress, each spring sits in its own fabric pocket and moves independently. The number (1000, 2000 and so on) refers to how many springs are in a double-size mattress.
- Pros: responds to your body shape, reduces motion transfer, good airflow.
- Cons: usually heavier and more expensive than open coil.
- Best for: couples and anyone who wants balanced, personalised support.
Explore the 2000 Pocket Sprung Mattress or the Tufted 1000 Pocket Sprung Mattress.
Memory foam and hybrid mattresses
Memory foam softens with body heat and moulds to your shape, relieving pressure on shoulders and hips. A hybrid mattress combines pocket springs with a memory foam comfort layer – giving you the contouring of foam with the bounce and breathability of springs.
- Pros: excellent pressure relief, very low motion transfer, works with adjustable beds.
- Cons: some people find pure foam warmer or prefer a bouncier feel.
- Best for: side sleepers, light sleepers and anyone with an adjustable bed.
See our Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress.
Pillowtop mattresses
A pillowtop has an extra layer of soft padding sewn onto the top, giving a plush, hotel-style feel. It's a great choice if you love sinking into your bed. Try the Savoy Pillowtop Mattress – Soft Feel.
How to choose the right firmness
| Sleeping position | Usually suits |
|---|---|
| Side sleepers | Soft to medium – cushions shoulders and hips |
| Back sleepers | Medium to medium-firm – keeps the spine aligned |
| Front sleepers | Medium-firm to firm – stops hips sinking too far |
| Combination sleepers | Medium – a balanced all-rounder |
Body weight matters too: heavier sleepers often prefer a firmer mattress, while lighter sleepers may find a softer one more comfortable. If you have back pain or a medical condition, speak to your GP or physiotherapist about what's right for you.
When should you replace your mattress?
Most mattresses last around 7–10 years. It's time for a new one if you wake up stiff, can see dips or sagging, or sleep better in hotel beds than at home.
Try it at home for 100 nights
The best way to know if a mattress is right is to sleep on it. Every Macba Beds mattress comes in all UK sizes with free UK delivery, a 100-night trial and a 5-year warranty. Not sure what size you need? Read our UK bed sizes guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is pocket sprung better than memory foam?
Neither is better for everyone. Pocket sprung feels bouncier and cooler; memory foam gives closer contouring and pressure relief. A hybrid offers a mix of both.
What does 1000 pocket mean?
It means there are around 1000 individually pocketed springs in a double-size mattress.
Which mattress is best for an adjustable bed?
Flexible mattresses such as memory foam and hybrid designs are usually best for adjustable beds.
