Understanding DIY Mattress Support Layers

The support layer of a mattress is crucial for providing the structural foundation and determining the overall comfort, durability, and supportiveness of the mattress.

Among the various materials used for support layers by manufacturers and DIYers alike, pocketed coil units, firm latex foam, polyfoam, and thick wool mats are popular options, each offering unique benefits.

Pocketed Coil Units

Pocketed coils, also known as individually wrapped coils, offer targeted support by independently reacting to pressure. This design minimizes motion transfer, making it an excellent choice for couples.

Pocketed coils are also known for their durability and airflow, which helps in maintaining a cooler sleep surface. The springy bounce provided by these coils is preferred by those who like a bit of lift in their mattress, facilitating easier movement.

Latex Foam

Latex foam is celebrated for its responsive, contouring support and natural breathability.

Derived from the sap of rubber trees, it provides a buoyant feel that is firmer than memory foam but softer than innerspring coils. Latex is hypoallergenic, eco-friendly, and durable, making it a favored choice for environmentally conscious consumers. Its open-cell structure promotes excellent air circulation, reducing heat retention.

Polyfoam

Polyurethane foam, or polyfoam, is a versatile material that can be crafted to offer a range of firmness levels. It provides a supportive base that adapts to body shapes, offering a blend of support and comfort.

However, it tends to retain more heat than latex or coil options and may exhibit less durability over time. Polyfoam is often used in mattresses for its cost-effectiveness and lightweight properties.

Thick Wool Mats

Wool mats offer a unique, natural alternative for a mattress support layer. Wool is known for its durability, natural temperature regulation, and moisture-wicking properties. It provides a firm, supportive base with minimal bounce, making it less ideal for those who prefer a springy feel. However, its natural ability to limit motion transfer and regulate temperature makes it a cozy option for many.

Bounce vs. Motion Transfer

Pocketed coils provide bounce and ease of movement while effectively limiting motion transfer. In contrast, latex and polyfoam offer a balance between contouring support and minimal motion transfer, with latex being slightly bouncier. Wool mats, while supportive, offer minimal bounce and excel in motion isolation.

Comparing Benefits: Coils vs. Foams vs. Wool

Airflow

Pocketed coils and latex foam promote airflow, which is crucial for those who sleep hot. Polyfoam tends to retain more heat, and while wool is good at temperature regulation, it doesn’t offer the same level of breathability as coils or latex.

Support vs Firmness

It’s worth noting that most available pocketed coil options are generally considered firm. Side sleepers, particularly those with a BMI under 30, will certainly want to consider soft or even plush (super soft) comfort layers to balance out the relative firmness of pocketed coils if they choose them as their support layer. (And that is not to dissuade side-sleepers from using pocketed coils. Many do and love them, just keep their firmness in mind when planning your comfort layers.)

TL;DR

The choice between pocketed coils, latex foam, polyfoam, and wool mats for a mattress support layer depends on personal preferences for bounce, motion isolation, temperature regulation, and eco-friendliness. Understanding the unique benefits of each material can help mattress rebels make informed decisions for a comfortable and supportive night’s sleep.