Good mattresses have long ceased to be rare. The market is replete with a wide range of both springless models (latex, coconut, linen, camel, etc.) and mattresses with spring blocks.
Springless mattresses most often serve some specific purposes. For example: models with coconut coir for newborns or latex for allergy sufferers. However, most of these products can hardly be called orthopedic, that is, they allow the spine to remain in a comfortable, even state during sleep. Therefore, the choice most often has to be made among the assortment of mattresses with spring blocks.
Types of spring blocks
Spirals are placed inside the structure. They differ in shape, size, are attached to the frame in different ways and are connected to each other. Based on these characteristics, the type of model is determined.
Products come in two types:
- Bonnell spring block with dependent springs
- Devices with independent springs
Both types have pros and cons.
Tips for choosing a mattress
Pay attention to these factors:
- The main difference between spring types is that instead of having a round top, the spring usually has a hexagonal shape, which allows the coils to pack closer together.
- Manufacturers claim that this also allows the individual coils to fit more easily into the housing, but the fact that each coil is tied together makes the claim questionable.
- The individual coils in the LFK unit do not have knots at the top of each spring like Bonnell coils, which also affects performance and comfort.
LFK coil units typically contain many more springs than traditional Bonnells, making them stronger.
However, this statement remains questionable because the frame itself can also wear out.
Bonnell spring block, main characteristics
Some people consider the dependent spring unit to be an outdated model.
The designs appeared more than a hundred years ago, but interest in them remained due to their affordable price. Characteristics and comparison with other models reveal the features of dependent devices. The bicone springs are connected by weaving, which prevents contact between them. They are narrowed towards the middle, the diameter of the outer parts is larger.
Density - 100-150 pieces per square meter. This increases the elasticity of the product and helps distribute the load evenly. The number of turns is different; there are four- and five-turn weaving. A model with a higher number of turns is more expensive. High-quality steel is used in production; individual parts are connected with high-carbon steel wire with a diameter of 2-2.5 mm. The springs are attached to the frame with a “lock”.
The design of the block eliminates friction and creaking.
Important
: distinguish the model from an ordinary spring mattress, the hard components of which pierce the frame. Such products sag quickly and have a short service life.
What are spring mattresses made of?
What does the mattress look like inside?
What does a standard spring mattress look like in cross section:
- The spring block is the most important structural element. He takes on the entire load. The more advanced the block in the model, the better it adapts to it, and the more weight it can withstand.
- Insulating layer to protect fillers from contact with springs. Most often, it is spunbond or felt. Layers of material are located on both sides of the block.
- Fillers. Fillers with different properties are located on top of the insulating layer. Hard materials improve orthopedic properties, better distribute body weight onto the springs, while soft materials adapt to the curves of the body. The higher the filler layer, the more comfortable the mattress.
- Case. The mattresses are protected from dirt and abrasion by a cover that completely covers the structure. There are models with a fluffy stitch for greater comfort.
This is what a regular spring mattress looks like. In rare cases, manufacturers deviate from the standard design. There are models with two and three tiers of springs located on top of each other, or one-sided models - where the flooring layers in them are located only on one side.
Advantages and disadvantages of mattresses with Bonnell block
Advantages
"Progressive elasticity" effect. Heat-treated spirals are characterized by increased elasticity and the ability to withstand heavy loads - more than 115 kg. Under pressure they become hard and evenly distribute a person’s weight.
Availability. They belong to the category of economy class.
Strength, durability. The spirals are stable thanks to the metal frame. Mattresses with a dependent block last up to 15 years.
Take note:
the model is suitable for a single children's bed, as it will withstand children's games.
Excellent breathability and moisture exchange. Under the frame there is a filling made of wool, felt, spandex, batting or other materials. All-season copies have the same fillings on top and bottom, while two-season ones have batting filling on one side for the warm season, and wool on the other for cold weather. Two-season models are more popular due to their quality and durability. Fillers protect the metal from corrosion and prevent the appearance of insects and bacteria.
Flaws
Imperfect orthopedic properties. Sometimes a “hammock effect” occurs due to compression of the spirals located nearby. This is especially noticeable if the difference in the weight of the spouses is more than 20 kg.
With prolonged use, the mattress loses its shape and sag.
Important
: This can be avoided by turning it every six months.
After a few years, the fastening weakens and a squeak appears.
Sometimes, under the influence of significant loads, the spring straightens, damaging the mattress.
Advice
: purchase an improved model, the spirals of which are reinforced with dense polyurethane foam. The product lasts longer and can withstand loads of up to 180 kg.
How to choose between springs and foam rubber?
To figure out which filling for a sofa is better - polyurethane foam or a spring block, you need to compare both types, based on the main evaluation criteria: ease of use, durability, cost and design.
The main thing is convenience and comfort!
The main criterion for each buyer is comfort - how convenient it will be to use the sofa for its intended purpose. Upholstered furniture should provide complete rest, correct, comfortable positioning of the body. Particular attention should be paid to convenience if the sofa will be used as a sleeping place.
The lowest position in this regard is occupied by sofas using the Bonnell block. Since all the springs are combined with each other, as well as with the base, the surface does not provide the necessary position of the body. The structure sags in those places where the greatest pressure is exerted on it. When lying down, the spine arches, thereby occupying an unnatural position, and is under tension. It is inappropriate to talk about proper rest in this case.
Furniture with an independent spring block provides a more comfortable rest. Due to the fact that the springs are isolated from each other, the load on the surface can be distributed evenly. The design does not sag and the back is in an optimal position, the spine is relaxed.
Filler based on polyurethane foam has a completely different structure. Due to the elasticity of the material, the surface completely adapts to the contours of the human body, ensures its natural position, and then returns to its original state. There are no marks left in the form of dents, etc. The use of such models allows you to relax better, quickly restore vigor and get rid of the feeling of “being overwhelmed.”
Conclusion: In terms of ease of use, it is recommended to give preference to sofas with an independent spring block or polyurethane foam filler with a lamella frame.
Durability
If the springs are made of low-quality metal or an insufficient number of flooring layers are used, active use of the furniture will lead to rapid wear. The result is damaged upholstery fabric, creaking sounds, and dented areas.
When choosing a sofa with polyurethane foam filling, you should give preference to dense, hard varieties, which have the highest elasticity rates. Elastic foam does not lose its shape after repeated compression. The use of polyurethane foam with less elasticity or poor quality wears off much faster - defective areas appear on the surface of the sofa. Otherwise, foam rubber has good ventilation properties, and dust does not accumulate in it.
Manufacturers often prefer to combine the advantages of springs and polyurethane foam in the designs of upholstered furniture. It looks like this: the base is formed by a spring block, and layers of polyurethane foam act as a layer between the structural elements. This approach can significantly extend the durability of sofas.
Conclusion: Spring blocks and polyurethane foam fillers can last equally long, it all depends on the quality of the materials used in the production process.
The problem of price and quality
The most affordable are spring sofas made using Bonnell technology. However, they are inferior to other varieties in terms of convenience. In this case, each buyer has the right to independently decide whether it is worth saving on comfort and relaxation?
Features of a block with independent springs
The springs are placed in insulated fabric covers that are glued together. When one spring is compressed, the others remain motionless. Their diameter is small, so the number of pieces per square meter reaches 1000 units. Excessive density leads to bending of the springs on the sides and worsens the anatomical properties of the product. The spirals touch and become deformed. Therefore, the best option is up to 350 pieces per square meter.
The model supports the spine, takes the shape of the human body, and relaxes the spinal muscles.
Production technology
Despite the similarities, the Bonnell block is very different from traditional designs, well known for their terrible squeaking and the unique ability of the springs to sag or, conversely, bulge, creating uncomfortable sleeping conditions.
For Bonnell blocks, four- or five-turn bicone steel springs are used, which are connected to each other with wire. The latter is secured through special locking devices located at the ends of the spirals. The simple technology does not allow the springs to bulge or sag. At the same time, they do not creak when squeezed.
What to choose - Bonnell block or independent springs
Comparing the merits of products will help.
Advantages of Bonnell spring mattresses
They serve for a long time and are resistant to loads of more than 120 kg.
The affordable price makes them accessible to buyers.
The covers of the independent springs are made of artificial materials and are glued together with flammable glue. The friction of the covers causes static electricity. Dependent structures do not have such disadvantages.
They are characterized by high breathability.
Advantages of mattresses with independent springs
- Increased flexibility, elasticity due to density.
- Takes on the contours of a person.
- Stable.
Please note
: if the difference in the weight of the spouses is significant, a design made of hard and soft springs will provide a comfortable sleep.
The consumer properties of independent devices are better, the cost of products is higher.
Dependent designs represent a classic option, valued for their accessibility and reliability.
To make the right choice, you should take into account various factors: weight, age of a person, personal preferences, financial capabilities.
Comparison
| Parameters/Design | Dependent block | Independent |
| Price | Low | The higher the spring density, the higher the price. TFK is not much more expensive than Bonnel. |
| Sleeping weight | 90-120 kg. In some cases up to 150 kg. | From 110 kg (TFC) to 170 kg (S2000) |
| Rigidity | Low | The more springs, the higher the stiffness. |
| Life time | Depends on the fillers, on average about 5-7 years. | Up to 10 years with high-quality fillers and careful handling. |
| Wave and hammock effect | Present | Absent |
| Comfort | Base | Elevated |
| Noise | Available | Absent |
| Endurance | A basic level of | The higher the spring density, the higher it is. |
| Orthopedic qualities | Basic | High level. The higher the spring density, the more pronounced they are. |
| Transportation | Roll models available | Roll models available |
| Who is it suitable for? | For sleeping alone for people of standard build without problems with sleep and posture | For comfortable sleep alone and as a couple. There are a variety of block types available to suit different body types. Suitable as a preventive measure for signs of poor posture and back pain. |
| When is it recommended to buy? | When you need the cheapest option of at least 16 cm for organizing a temporary sleeping place. For example, for guests or during renovation. | Suitable for daily sleep |
Bonnell mattresses. Customer Reviews
Marina, Russia
: Finishing renovations. I'm planning to change my furniture. I threw out the old sofa and decided to buy a bed. I have been looking for a budget mattress option for a long time. I chose Comfort Bonnell. I really liked it! Sleep comfortably and softly. No squeaks or bells and whistles, very good for the price.
Boris, Ukraine
: I bought a Comfort mattress. A little disappointed. When his wife tosses and turns, he shakes. If I'm lying alone, there's no problem. But very durable. The old one had to be thrown away because the child jumped on it and the springs were damaged. And at least something jumps on this. So more suitable for children.
Tatyana, Russia
: It became impossible to sleep on the old sofa. I bought a Comfort mattress. I was pleased with the price. Soft, easy to clean. When the husband spins, all the springs move slightly. I was satisfied with the purchase. I sleep great. Decent quality for a reasonable price.
The final decision is up to the buyer
To finally decide which is better - a spring block or polyurethane foam in a sofa, you need to approach the problem from the point of view of additional criteria:
Thus, if there is a need for a hard surface, you should give preference to models with foam filling. The degree of rigidity depends on the number and properties of polyurethane foam layers.
Upholstered furniture can be placed for relaxation in the living room, but in the kitchen or dining area it is more appropriate to use hard options. Spring structures are also great for recreation areas.
If you plan to use the sofa as a sleeping place, you should pay attention to the features of the folding mechanism, its strength and reliability. It is better to avoid too soft structures in favor of correct body positioning. The optimal option is a spring sofa with an independent spring block, which provides an average degree of rigidity.
Thus, you should proceed from your own needs and desires, taking into account the above recommendations.
Source
Springless mattresses: types and characteristics
A mattress without springs is another step towards progress. Such models appeared later, but firmly occupied their niche in the market. However, there is also a historical version of a springless sleeping device - a cotton feather bed. It is heavy, soft and has nothing in common with modern springless mattresses. To create the latter, three main materials are used:
- natural latex;
- artificial rubber;
- coconut fiber.
When discussing springless mattresses and the pros and cons of such designs, it is important to pay attention to several key characteristics.
Structure and type of fillers
Real latex - this is how the most expensive mattresses today are labeled. They are produced using the sap of the Hevea tree, a rubber tree that grows in the Asian jungle. The juice is collected by hand and added to the mass for the manufacture of orthopedic mattresses and pillows. An indicator of quality is the amount of juice in the material. Its share varies among bona fide manufacturers from 20 to 90 percent of the total composition of the mattress or pillow. These are the most elastic and comfortable mattresses for sleeping, but they are not affordable for everyone.
Natural latex has two relatives:
- artificial;
- pressed.
The first is an achievement of the chemical industry; it resembles rubber only in appearance, but in terms of orthopedic properties it remains closer to ordinary foam filler. The second is made from latex production waste by pressing and, inferior to materials from givea juice, takes an honorable second place among latexes in terms of elasticity and service life.
Another natural material is coir. This is the name of a special coconut fiber characterized by a high level of rigidity. This type of mattress is not popular, which is why combined latex-coconut options are available on the market. There are also transformable mattresses: on one side they have a latex surface, on the other - coir. By turning it over from time to time, you can adjust the rigidity of the sleeping device.
Fact! In European countries, a series of refusals to use springless synthetic mattresses has begun. They cause nausea, shortness of breath and allergy attacks in previously healthy people.
Polyurethane foam
Which mattress to choose for a newborn's crib
Polyurethane foam is a synthetic, highly porous foam material that is obtained by mixing several synthetic polymers.
more durable passportReceipt technology
There are two types of PPU:
- Cast polyurethane foam, which initially has a liquid state. It is poured into special molds that follow the contours and dimensions of the future sofa part. Under the influence of high pressure and significant temperature, it hardens. The resulting element is ready for use and has high dimensional accuracy. In this way, both the seat and the back or side cushions of the sofa can be made. The disadvantage of the cast type is the crust that forms on the surface as a result of sintering. Air circulation may be difficult in this case, which can lead to the formation of a “greenhouse effect.”
- Block polyurethane foam is often called a “sandwich”. This is due to the method of its production. The material comes in the form of large sheets of varying thickness and density. From these sheets, elements of the required sizes are cut and glued together. In this way, different levels of rigidity and height can be achieved. It is precisely because of the presence of several layers that the finished product resembles a sandwich.
For the manufacture of various elements of the sofa, sheets of different degrees of rigidity are used. Products made from polyurethane foam do not tolerate direct sunlight. Under their influence, they can crumble, so mattresses made of this material are additionally protected with covers made of light-proof fabric. An interesting feature of some PU foam compositions is that they have a shape memory effect. It is usually used to make pillows that remember the contours of the human body and adapt to them as much as possible. But as soon as you get up, the pillow will instantly return to its original state.
A product filled with high-quality polyurethane foam will be more affordable in cost than a “Pocket spring” block, and its properties and level of comfort will be approximately the same. This mattress can also be used for sleeping. "Bonnel" will be cheaper than both of these options and significantly worse in technical characteristics.
The advantages of PPU include:
- Long service life;
- Absolute safety and environmental friendliness of the material;
- Good balance of softness/hardness;
- Air and moisture permeability;
- The material does not provoke allergic reactions;
- Does not accumulate dust;
- Rapid restoration of shape after deformation due to high elasticity;
- Ability to withstand significant loads for long periods of time.
This material has significantly fewer disadvantages:
