Pocket Spring vs. Polyurethane Foam

Pocket Spring

Pocket springs are individually wrapped coil systems that are stitched into mattresses below a comfort layer of foam or other material. Unlike traditional innerspring systems that are interconnected, pocket springs are entirely independent allowing for added contour and pressure point relief than older innerspring models.

The general rule on pocket coil systems is the more coils, the more responsive and motion controlled the mattress is, while still providing support. This directly translates to more comfort.

In most pocket spring beds, there is a layer of memory foam or latex foam above the pocket spring array so that the sleeper gets both the benefits of contouring foam and the comfort of the pocket springs.

Pros: Durable materials and superior comfort to traditional innerspring systems.

Cons: Sleepers should be equally as interested in the foam that is wrapped around the coil system - if that is low quality, the bed still may be uncomfortable.

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 Pocket Spring

Learn More About Polyurethane Foam

See Our Top Mattress Choices

Material Scores

Overall Score:
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.4/10

Comfort:
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.4/10

Softness:
Pocket Spring: 9.4/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10

Cooling:
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8/10

Hypoallergenic:
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.1/10

No Odor:
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.4/10

General Support:
Pocket Spring: 9.6/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10

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

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