Coil Spring vs. Polyurethane Foam

Coil Spring

Coil spring (also called innerspring) mattresses use metal coils to provide resistance and support. Contemporary bedding use pocket coil systems that are entirely independent from each other so there are less pressure points. The rule of these new pocket coil systems is the more coils that are used, the more independent movement and response is in mattress.

Older coil spring mattresses, however, have one frame with coils interconnected to one another. Although this provides good support across the entire surface, and a longer durability life, there are comfort concerns about these mattresses.

Additionally, most coil spring mattresses have memory foam, latex, or some other type of bedding to provide a soft surface to sleep on.

Pros: Durable materials, and newer pocket coil systems provide comfortable support.

Cons: Older coil spring mattresses can cause more back pain and irritate pressure points.

Polyurethane Foam

Polyurethane foam is a blanket term that includes any foam that is synthesized using polyol and diisocyanate. These include but are not limited to: memory foam, high resilience foam, and high density foam. Since polyurethane foam can contain additives, a manufacturer that comes up with a new formula can name the new foam whatever they like.

Many memory foam mattresses are a combination of polyurethane foams, layered from dense on the bottom to less dense on the surface layers.

Polyurethane is a synthetic blend of organic compounds and has a tendency to off-gas. If you are susceptible to lung issues, please do additional research on the quality of foams before purchasing.

Pros: Many different types of foams exist under the polyurethane umbrella -- some are excellent for bedding and offer different firmness varieties!

Cons: Off-gassing and durability problems with lower quality foams.

Learn More About Coil Spring

Learn More About Polyurethane Foam

See Our Top Mattress Choices

Material Scores

Overall Score:
Coil Spring: 9.3/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.4/10

Comfort:
Coil Spring: 9.2/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.4/10

Softness:
Coil Spring: 8.7/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10

Cooling:
Coil Spring: 9.6/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8/10

Hypoallergenic:
Coil Spring: 9.5/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.1/10

No Odor:
Coil Spring: 9.5/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.4/10

General Support:
Coil Spring: 9.3/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10

Eco-Conscious:
Coil Spring: 8.7/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.5/10

Price Value:
Coil Spring: 8.4/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10