Mattress Coil Guide: Gauge, Types, and Count

If you’re interested in an innerspring, pocketed coil, or hybrid mattress, you may want to look into the type and number of mattress coils in the mattress you choose.

Mattress coils, or mattress springs, are integral to the mattress’ support, which in turn impacts comfort and sleep quality. For those with back pain, back issues, or other concerns for support, considering various alternatives of mattress coils may be key to finding the ideal mattress.

We’ll explain all the factors you should think about when it comes to coil mattresses including:

Understanding how coil gauge count impacts mattress firmness
Learning how the number of coils impacts mattress durability
Navigating how different coil types impact the feel of a mattress

What Is Coil Gauge Count?

The gauge number of a mattress coil indicates the mattress’ firmness. The lower the gauge number of the mattress coil, the thicker the coil. Therefore, the lower the gauge number, the firmer and stiffer the mattress will feel, offering a harder surface for the mattress.

Mattress coil gauges typically range from 12 to 15. If you’re looking for a forgiving mattress, an ideal gauge number would be 14. However, if you’re looking for a mattress that offers more firm support, an ideal gauge number would be 13 or lower.

Mattresses with lower coil gauges typically last longer because the thicker wire wears out slower over time. However, most consumers replace their mattress before the coils wear out, regardless of their gauge, and therefore gauge number should not be a heavy consideration in regards to durability.

How Many Coils Should A Mattress Have?

The number of coils can impact bodily support and mattress longevity. Consumers should generally avoid mattresses with low coil counts; however, an absolute minimum coil count is difficult to determine because of the variety in mattress sizes.

Generally, full mattresses should have at least 300 coils, queen mattresses should have at least 400 coils, and king mattresses should have at least 480 coils.

Mattress Size	Minimum Number of Coils
Full Mattress	300 coils
Queen Mattress	400 coils
King Mattress	480 coils

However, mattresses with coil counts much greater than the minimum level of coils may not actually offer a substantially higher level of comfort or support. For example, mattresses with low coil counts may promote higher coil density, which provides greater support.

Type Of Coil

The type and construction of the coil may be considered more important than the number of coils and the gauge of coils.

There are three main types of mattress coils:

Hourglass Coils: Hourglass coils are the most common type of mattress coil. Two subtypes of hourglass coils are Bonnell and offset hourglass coils. Bonnell coils are less expensive to make and are therefore more popular, whereas offset coils are constructed with a hinge-like rounded top and bottom and therefore make less noise when slept on. Offset coils also conform more to the user’s body shape. The Sealy Posturepedic coil system uses offset coils.
Pocketed Coils: Pocketed coils, also known as Marshall coils or encased coils, reduce the sensation of movement on the bed because each coil is wrapped in a textile. Pocketed coils are often used in high-end mattresses because they are expensive to manufacture and create. These coils have become more popular over the years.
Continuous Coils: Continuous coils, also known as Mira-coils, are made in an S-shaped curve rather than being coiled, and are made from one long wire. These coils provide a more stable and interlinked coil structure. Mattresses with continuous coils have been noted to be more durable. The largest company using continuous coils is Serta Mattress Company.

If you think an innerspring mattress is the best option for you, check out our top rated coil mattress below:

Best Innerspring Mattress

Saatva Mattress

The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.1/5

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CHECK PRICE

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Material

Innerspring

Trial Period

365 nights

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers

If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.

Back Pain

This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.

Back Sleeping

Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.

Stomach Sleeping

Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

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Average Customer Rating

4.9/5