Spring Mattresses: The Ultimate Guide 2026

Spring mattresses still represent the majority of bedding sales in France. Yet this century-old technology has evolved considerably: from traditional Bonnell springs to latest-generation pocket micro-springs, including foam-spring hybrids. If you think "spring mattress" means discomfort and noise, it's time to reconsider.

This guide explores the different spring technologies in depth, their concrete advantages, and how to choose the right model for your sleep profile.

What are the different types of springs in a mattress?

Quick answer: There are four main types of springs: Bonnell springs (interconnected, economical but less durable), pocket springs (independent, ideal for couples), micro-springs (targeted comfort and pressure distribution), and continuous LFK springs (uniform support and durability). Pocket springs dominate the mid-range and high-end market in 2026.

Bonnell springs (or biconical springs)

Invented in the 1900s, these are the oldest and most economical springs. Each spring has an hourglass shape (two cones joined at their base) and is connected to neighbouring springs by horizontal wire spirals.

Advantages:

• Very affordable price (200-500 €)
• Firm and uniform support
• Excellent ventilation
• Proven technology, easy to repair

Disadvantages:

• Transfers partner's movements
• Identical support across the entire surface (no adaptation to body zones)
• Risk of noise with age
• Lower durability than pocket springs

Who is it for? Guest rooms, holiday rentals, very tight budgets.

Pocket springs

Each spring is individually wrapped in a non-woven fabric pocket. The springs are not connected to each other: each one works independently.

Advantages:

• Targeted support: each body zone is supported according to its weight
• Motion isolation: your partner's movements aren't felt
• Comfort zones: possibility of creating differentiated firmness zones (7 zones, 9 zones)
• Silent: no metal-on-metal friction
• Durability: 8-12 years for a quality model

Disadvantages:

• Higher price than Bonnell springs
• Heavy weight
• Less cradling than memory foam

Who is it for? Couples, people seeking firm and airy support, hot sleepers.

Micro-springs and nano-springs

Micro-springs are miniaturised pocket springs (2-4 cm in diameter vs 5-6 cm for standard springs). You can count 1000 to 2500 per m².

Advantages:

• Ultra-precise and progressive support
• Surface suppleness with deep firmness
• Ideal combination with foam or latex layers

Disadvantages:

• Premium pricing
• Manufacturing complexity

Leading brands: Simba (2500 Aerocoil micro-springs), Technogel (dual zone with micro-springs).

Continuous springs (LFK)

A single steel wire forms a continuous series of springs across the entire mattress surface. This technology, uncommon in France, offers very uniform support.

How does a modern spring mattress work?

Quick answer: A modern spring mattress combines a spring base (Bonnell, pocket, or continuous) with multiple comfort foam layers and a protective cover. The springs provide dynamic support and ventilation, while the foam layers bring surface comfort and motion isolation. The higher the quality of springs and foams, the greater the comfort and durability.

A quality spring mattress isn't "just springs." It's a complex architecture:

1. Cover: Outer fabric (cotton, polyester, or blend) often treated anti-dust mite
2. Comfort upholstery: Foam, latex, wool, or cotton that cushions contact with the springs
3. Spring layer: The core of the mattress, 10-15 cm thick
4. Edge support: Reinforcement foam around the springs to prevent edge collapse
5. Bottom base: Protective and structural fabric

The total thickness should be at least 20-25 cm so the springs can't be felt. A mattress that's "too thin" will be uncomfortable regardless of spring quality.

What are the advantages of spring mattresses?

Quick answer: Spring mattresses offer four major advantages: superior breathability thanks to air circulating between the springs, dynamic and firm support particularly suited to heavier people, excellent durability for high-end models (10-15 years), and a wide price range from 200 € to over 3000 €. They remain the most popular technology in France.

Unmatched breathability

This is the absolute strength of springs. The air space created by the metal structure allows natural air circulation throughout the mattress. Body moisture evaporates easily, preventing heat and mould. For hot sleepers, it's the coolest technology — significantly better than memory foam and often better than latex.

Dynamic and firm support

Springs offer a "bouncy" support that makes changing positions easier. Unlike memory foam that "envelopes" you, springs "push" you upward. This dynamic feel is appreciated by active people who move a lot during sleep.

Durability of high-end models

A pocket spring mattress with a foam frame and natural upholstery can last 10 to 15 years. Tempered steel springs retain their elasticity much longer than standard foam.

Wide price range

From Bonnell springs at 200 € to high-end models at 3000 €, this technology adapts to all budgets. It's one of the few technologies where you can still find good French products at reasonable prices.

What are the disadvantages of spring mattresses?

Quick answer: The main disadvantages of spring mattresses are their heavy weight (difficult to move and flip), potential noise over time (especially with Bonnell springs), less cradling comfort than memory foam or latex, and difficulty flipping due to their weight and rigidity. Quality pocket springs, however, mitigate these drawbacks.

Heavy weight

A spring mattress is heavy. A 160x200 cm model easily weighs 30-45 kg. Transport, installation, and flipping require two people.

Potential noise

Even though modern pocket springs are silent, an old spring mattress can creak. This phenomenon is due to metal frame wear and friction between springs.

Less cradling comfort

If you're looking for a "cosy nest" sensation, springs won't suit you as well as memory foam or latex. The support is firm and structured, which some people appreciate and others dislike.

Difficulty flipping

Unlike foam mattresses, spring models are generally not reversible. The top side contains the comfort upholstery, and the bottom side is a rigid base.

How to choose a spring mattress based on your profile?

Quick answer: Choose your spring mattress based on your sleep position (side = soft pocket springs, back = medium, stomach = firm), your weight (under 70 kg = soft to medium, 70-100 kg = medium to firm, over 100 kg = firm with reinforced springs), and your budget (400-800 € for excellent value in pocket springs).

Sleep position

Back sleeping: Pocket springs with comfort zones are ideal. Lumbar support is maintained thanks to the firmer central zone. Choose a medium to firm firmness (6-7/10).

Stomach sleeping: Excellent choice. The firm support of springs prevents the pelvis from sinking too deeply, preserving spinal alignment. Prefer firm models (7-8/10).

Side sleeping: Less suited than memory foam or latex. If you sleep on your side and choose a spring mattress, opt for a model with a thick layer of plush upholstery (memory foam or latex on the surface) and a medium firmness (5-6/10).

Body weight

Weight	Recommendation
< 60 kg	Soft or medium pocket springs, thick upholstery
60-90 kg	Medium-firm pocket springs, comfort zones
> 90 kg	Firm pocket springs, thickness ≥ 25 cm, reinforced frame

Budget

• < 400 €: Bonnell springs with basic upholstery. Acceptable for temporary use.
• 400-800 €: Entry-level pocket springs (IKEA, some classic Epéda models).
• 800-1500 €: Pocket springs with comfort zones and natural upholstery. The best value for money.
• > 1500 €: Premium pocket springs, artisanal craftsmanship, noble materials (wool, cotton, silk).

The best spring mattress brands

• Epéda: French expertise since 1936. Pocket springs with wool/cotton upholstery. Tradition and quality.
• Simmons: American pioneer of pocket springs since 1925. Beautyrest technology.
• Treca: French luxury. Artisanal pocket springs with noble materials. Very high prices but exceptional quality.
• Simba: Modern approach with micro-springs combined with memory foam. Innovative hybrid technology.
• Bultex: HR foam with some hybrid spring models. Good French value for money.

Maintaining a spring mattress

Ventilation

Air out daily. The airy spring structure evacuates moisture effectively, but ventilation reinforces this benefit.

Rotation

Rotate the mattress 180° every 3-6 months. Flipping is generally not possible (bottom side is unupholstered).

Bed frame

Use a suitable slatted or upholstered base. A base that's too soft or too old can damage the springs and void warranties.

Protective cover

A waterproof mattress protector protects the surface upholstery while preserving the mattress's breathability.

Our verdict

The spring mattress remains a relevant technology in 2026, particularly for hot sleepers, firm support enthusiasts, and those seeking a durable solution at a reasonable price. Pocket springs have supplanted Bonnell springs for daily use, offering targeted comfort and motion isolation that older technologies couldn't provide.

For a quality first purchase, Epéda models in the 800-1200 € range offer the best value for money with genuine French expertise. If you're looking for modern hybrid technology, the Simba Hybrid cleverly combines micro-springs and memory foam.

Avoid Bonnell springs for your main bed: investing in pocket springs will save you from replacing your mattress 3 years later.

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See also: Best hybrid mattresses 2026 | Best mattress for sweating 2026 | Best mattresses 2026