Spring mattress vs Memory foam / hybrid
Side-by-side comparison, when-to-use-each guide, and instant conversion. Reviewed for 2026.
Hot sleepers, heavier people (>100 kg), edge sitting, anyone who wants to move freely in sleep.
Pressure point pain (hips, shoulders), sharing with a restless partner, side sleepers.
| Aspect | Spring mattress | Memory foam / hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Heat retention | Cool | Warmer (gel foam helps) |
| Motion isolation | Moderate | Excellent |
| Edge support | Better | Weaker |
| Lifespan | 10-20 years | 8-10 years (foam degrades) |
| Price range | £200-2,000+ | £300-2,000+ |
Frequently asked
What firmness should I choose?
Side sleepers: medium-soft (allows hips and shoulders to sink in). Back sleepers: medium-firm. Stomach sleepers: firm (prevents lower back curve). Heavier people: firmer than equivalent lighter person. Couples: hybrid mattresses with individual pocket springs accommodate different preferences better.
How often should you replace a mattress?
Sleep Council recommends every 7 years, but good quality pocket sprung mattresses often last 10-15 years. Signs to replace: waking with back/neck pain that improves during the day, visible sagging or coil bumps through the surface, allergies worsened by mattress age.