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:
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.
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.
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.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
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.

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.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
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.
Final Thoughts
Overall, when you’re considering a coil mattress, you should look into the coil gauge, number of coils, and type of coils used in the construction of the mattress.
One final factor you may want to consider is whether or not the mattress coils have been tempered. Tempered coils are more durable because they have been heated and cooled repeatedly to ensure and solidify the shape of the coil. For customers who require firm support, such as those with a larger frame or greater mass, tempered coils may be ideal.
For specific mattress recommendations, you can take a look at our list of the best innerspring mattresses and our list of the best hybrid mattresses.