Mattress purchase: Terminology & basic vocabulary for its features

Those looking to buy a good mattress may be faced with unfamiliar terminology. That's why we've developed a comprehensive glossary below to translate common industry terminology related to mattress construction. It is especially important to understand the manufacturing terms of the mattresses and by extension, be more informed when it comes time for market research. We begin… Base : The thick bottom layer of a layer. Also known as a "support core," the base layer is usually made of metal springs, dense polyfoam, latex, or adjustable air chambers. This layer component provides support and durability while preventing excessive sinking. Comfort Layer: The top layer of the mattress. The composition of the comfort layer has the biggest impact on the overall feeling after you sleep on it directly. Most models use softer materials for cushioning and contouring. If a mattress has more than one comfort level, manufacturers may refer to the mattresses as a comfort system. Common materials include memory foam, polyfoam, latex, wool and fibers. Cover: The outer fabric layer of a ply. Most covers are integrated and not removable. In many cases, additional padding sewn in adds shock absorption. Density: A measure of mass per volume. For mattresses, thicker materials are usually sturdier and more durable. Durability: How well a mattress holds up to wear and tear. Most mattresses have an average lifespan of between 7 and 10 years. Factors that affect durability include mattress type, material quality, construction quality, body weight, and mattress care. Insulation Layer : A layer in inner lining layers that acts as a barrier between the comfort system and the support core. The insulating layer prevents the sleeping surface from sinking into the spring system and can also modify the feel. Mattress Core: Another term used to describe the base or support layer of a mattress. The mattress core creates a strong, durable base and provides support for the comfort layers. May contain springs, polyfoam, latex or air chambers. Natural fibers: Natural fibers can be used in the mattress cover or as part of a mattress. Cotton and wool are among the most common natural fibers used in mattresses. Pillow -Top: A top comfort mattress that adds an extra plush surface to your sleep. Usually made of fibers or foam, it is sewn on top of the mattress and sits on top of the rest of the comfort system. Support Zone : A design feature in which the stability of the sleeping surface is varied to provide targeted support and shock absorption. This usually promotes good posture and relieves pressure points. Breathability: How well air flows through a material. Breathable mattress components generally keep the sleeping surface cooler. Conformance: How well a mattress molds to the shape of your body. The shaping affects pressure relief and comfort. Deep Compression Support: The ability to support parts of the body that tend to sink deeper into the sleeping surface, such as the hips. Deep compression support is important to promote proper spinal alignment. Firmness: How hard or soft a mattress is. Mattress firmness is closely related to comfort. Mattress brands may use different terms to describe the firmness of their mattresses. We use a scale of 1 to 10 to help you make direct comparisons between models and manufacturers. Point elasticity: The degree to which a material is compressed in one location without affecting other areas. A material with high point elasticity, such as memory foam, allows for greater contour with compression directly under pressure. Materials with low point elasticity, such as latex, spread force over a wider area for a more buoyant feel. Responsiveness: Highly responsive materials, such as springs, return to their original shape quickly when weight is removed, making them sharper and easier to move. Bonnell Springs: Hourglass-shaped springs connected together by helical wires. Bonnel coils are cheap and less responsive. Pocket or Independent Springs: Springs that are individually wrapped in fabric pouches and can move independently, allowing for better contouring and minimal movement transfer. These springs are common in hybrid mattresses. Hybrid mattress: A mattress made with a spring support core and a significant foam or latex comfort system. A hybrid mattress aims to combine the best properties of innerspring and all-foam mattresses while minimizing their negatives. Innerspring Mattress: A style of mattress with a coil core, fabric cover, and little to no cushioning material. Most mattress companies have phased out this older mattress style due to lack of demand. However, some budget-friendly models are still available.