On average a person can spend about one third of their life span in bed and getting a good night sleep is crucial to good health. This is why it is essential that you buy the best bed you can. So increase your budget when buying a bed and feel the benefits.

Below are listed the different types of mattress that are available with descriptions of there structure and how they work to maximise your comfort whilst in bed

Open coil, bonnell and unilink.

These are all terms used to describe the same springing system which uses helical or hour glass springs that are set in rows and linked to the next spring both vertically an horizontally. This is probably the most universally recognised and used system there is, and is found predominantly in budget to mid range mattresses.

Myers, Sealy and Rest Assured are all manufacturers that make beds within their ranges that use the open coil system. Myers also use a variation on this type and this is to use two layers of open coil springs.

Tension variations are created by changes in the wire thickness and the fillings used, also by tufting the mattress you can create a firmer feel and by quilt stitching the top you can get a softer feel.

Continuous

This is where the spring unit is made from one continuous piece of wire that runs from the head to the foot of the bed. This type is particularly good for slatted bedsteads as the springs cannot fall through the gaps and ensures total support through the life of the bed. Another feature of this system is that the support of the mattress is right to the edge so reducing the roll off effect. Silentnight use this configuration in all their Mirocoil Range and Slumberlands Posture Springing is another example of this very responsive type of unit.

Pocket

This is when each coil spring is wrapped in its own cloth pocket and is free to move independently. This means that the mattress will mould itself your contours giving the full length of your body maximum support and comfort. The spring counts do vary from bed to bed, the more springs, the greater the dispersement of your weight and the longer the life of the bed. Pocket sprung mattresses usually have generous layers of upholstery and natural fillings to give a more luxurious feel. These do settle in the first few months of use to give body forms in the mattress, this has no detriment to the wear ability of the mattress but is exactly how it should perform. Rest Assured and Staples are the manufacturers we obtain our pocket range from and they are middle to high in price

Latex and foam

These are becoming more and more popular in today's market place as they have many benefits. Again the foam moulds to the exact shape of you body supporting it along its whole length. They have pressure relieving properties, are usually hypoallergenic and are often no turn for ease of maintenance. Some are made completely from foam and others have springs wrapped in their core, in many cases a layer of latex is now used in conjunction with all the other types of springing systems.

Memory foam (visco elastic)

First used by NASA during the shuttle space programme, technologically advanced memory foam responds to body heat and weight to support you perfectly, relieving pressure points and helping relieve symptoms of backache, painful joints and circulatory problems.

This type of mattress does not need to be turned. It resists the harbouring of dust mites, making it ideal for people with allergies and respiratory problems.

Futons

Originally from Japan, futons are usually made from layers of cotton or fibre wadding, which moulds itself to the shape of your body.

We hope this guide helps shed some light on the different types of mattress that are available as we want you as a potential customer to make an informed choice. Our trained sales team will also be able to help you make the right choice.