Spring Mattresses
Coil Spring
The most widely used option, also known as Bonnell spring. Springs are arranged in rows and connected to one another, top and bottom, by a spiral helical wire with an outer rod strengthening the perimeter. They come in a choice of tensions, starting with a very firm 12.5 gauge wire. Priced from budget to mid range.
Pocket Spring
The spring in pocket spring mattresses are all enclosed in a fabric pocket that slightly compresses the spring so that, when the rows of springs are joined together, the resulting mattress allows for a more individual response to support different parts of the body. The number and different thickness of the spring determines the level of support in the mattress. Pocket sprung mattresses tend to be at the mid to upper price end of the market.
Fillings
Both coil spring & pocket spring mattresses use a wide range of fillings to create different properties and comfort options, as well as affecting the price. Fillings are chosen for their resilience, durability, flexibility and ability to absorb body moisture. In cheaper mattresses, fillings usually come in compact pads, in better quality mattresses layers of loose fillings in greater volumes are often preferred.
Cotton – often used near the surface for its soft feel and its ability to breathe and absorb moisture.
Wool – natural resilient fibre, creating a luxurious feel with good fibre retardancy properties, it is also breathable.
Foam – different types of foam are used for their cushioning effect. They include latex, polyurethane and visco-elastic (memory foam).
Polyester – a synthetic material with good recovery properties.
Hair – highly resilient fibre, often described as ‘natures spring’. Available in pads or loose for high luxury.
Coir Fibre – pads made from coconut fibre, generally used next to the spring to insulate and prevent the spring from being felt or penetrating. Alternatives include compressed wool or synthetic pads.
Silk, Cashmere, Mohair – these and other fine, natural fibres are also used for additional luxury.

Foam Mattresses
Latex
A premium quality material derived from the sap of the rubber tree. It has a distinctive, resilient feel, is very durable and has anti-microbial properties that offer benefits to many allergy sufferers. Latex has natural elasticity and recovers its shape immediately when pressure is removed. It also has very good point elasticity resulting in even distribution of pressure for independent support.
Memory Foam
This is a relatively new type of polyurethane foam (also known as visco elastic foam). With a unique feel, it slowly responds to the body temperature and weight, taking the shape of the user – and then recovers its original shape when the heat and pressure is removed. It has good pressure relieving properties and is available in a variety of qualities and densities.
Polyurethane
A synthetic, petroleum based foam with performances and price varying according to density and quality. It is widely used and versatile.