Ever sat on a mattress that felt springy, firm, and oddly familiar?
Chances are, it was built with Bonnell springs.
This old-school spring system has stood the test of time. But just because it’s common doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone.
Key Takeaways
- A bonnell spring mattress is a firmer, affordable option that uses a connected coil system to create a traditional feel with solid airflow.
- While it’s not the best for motion isolation or pressure relief, it can suit back sleepers, guest rooms, and short-term setups.
- Compared to pocket springs, memory foam, or latex, Bonnell mattresses feel firmer and less contouring, but they’re often more budget-friendly.
In this article, we’re unpacking what Bonnell springs actually are, how they’re made, and how they differ from more modern mattress support systems.
Jump to a section:
- What Is a Bonnell Spring Mattress?
- Bonnell Spring Mattress Construction
- What Does a Bonnell Spring Mattress Feel Like?
- Bonnell Spring Mattress Advantages and Disadvantages
- Bonnell Springs vs Other Mattress Types
- How Long Do Bonnell Spring Mattresses Last?
- Who Could Benefit From a Bonnell Spring Mattress?
- Should You Get a Bonnell Spring Mattress?
- FAQs
What Is a Bonnell Spring Mattress?
A Bonnell spring mattress uses a traditional open coil system made up of hourglass-shaped springs linked together to form one connected unit. It’s one of the most widely used designs in older and entry-level mattresses, known for its firm feel and familiar bounce.
While it’s not the most advanced support spring system out there, it still does the job for some sleepers. Bonnell mattresses tend to feel sturdy and responsive, but they don’t offer much in the way of contouring or motion control.
If you’re after something basic and budget-friendly, this mattress type might catch your eye.
Bonnell Spring Mattress Construction
The build of a Bonnell spring mattress is fairly straightforward. Here’s how it typically comes together, layer by layer:
- Core support: Hourglass-shaped steel coils are linked by helical wires to form a single connected unit.
- Edge reinforcement: Thicker wires or steel borders are added around the sides to help keep the edges stable.
- Spring finishing: The ends of each coil are looped tightly to prevent them from poking through the top layers.
- Comfort layers: A layer of foam, fibre, or padding sits above the springs to soften the surface.
- Mattress cover: Everything is wrapped in fabric and stitched together to complete the final shape.
Each layer adds something, but it’s the springs underneath that give this mattress its firm, bouncy feel. If you’d like to dive deeper into how different layers work together, you can check out our blog on Ecosa’s different mattress layers.
What Does a Bonnell Spring Mattress Feel Like?
A Bonnell spring mattress usually feels firm and supportive, with a noticeable bounce. Because the coils are all connected, the surface moves as one, which means you’ll feel shifts more easily when you or your partner changes position.
These mattresses don’t mould to your body like memory foam does, so pressure relief can feel limited, especially around the hips and shoulders.
But if you prefer a traditional, lifted feel with some pushback, this style can suit. It’s more like sleeping on top of the bed rather than sinking into it.
Bonnell Spring Mattress Advantages and Disadvantages
Like most mattress types, Bonnell springs come with a mix of benefits and trade-offs.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
✅ Advantages
- Affordable: Often priced lower than other mattress types, making it an option for tighter budgets.
- Supportive feel: Offers firm support that suits back sleepers or those who prefer a sturdy surface.
- Good airflow: The open spring design allows heat to move through easily, helping with breathability.
- Easy to find: Widely available in stores and online across a range of sizes and builds.
⚠️ Disadvantages
- Motion transfer: Movement tends to ripple across the bed, which can disturb light sleepers.
- Lacks contouring: Doesn’t hug the body or relieve pressure the way memory foam or pocket springs with zoned support can.
- Can sag sooner: Springs may lose tension or dip in the middle with daily use over time.
- May become noisy: Older springs can creak or squeak with movement, especially without proper care.
Bonnell Springs vs Other Mattress Types
Mattresses can be made from a range of materials, each with its own feel and features.
Here’s how Bonnell spring mattresses stack up against other popular styles:
Bonnell Springs vs Pocket Springs
Pocket springs move independently, so they absorb movement better and contour more closely to the body.
Bonnell springs are linked together, which means more bounce but also more motion transfer.
Bonnell Springs vs Memory Foam
Memory foam mattresses mould your body and help relieve pressure, especially around the shoulders and hips.
Bonnell spring mattresses feel firmer and more responsive but don’t offer the same cushioning.
Bonnell Springs vs Latex
Latex mattresses are known for being breathable and long-lasting, with a naturally springy feel.
Bonnell springs are more affordable but can wear out sooner and offer less pressure relief.
Bonnell Springs vs Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrids combine springs with layers of foam or latex for added comfort and support.
Bonnell spring mattresses are simpler and more budget-friendly but don’t offer the same level of comfort layering.
How Long Do Bonnell Spring Mattresses Last?
A Bonnell spring mattress can last anywhere from 7 to 10 years, depending on how well it’s made and how it’s used. While they’re known for being sturdy, they tend to wear out faster than pocket spring or latex mattresses.
Here’s what can affect how long yours sticks around:
- Build quality: Thicker gauge springs and denser comfort layers tend to last longer and resist sagging better than thinner coils and low-density foam.
- Body weight: Heavier sleepers may notice sagging or soft spots sooner.
- Daily use: Mattresses in spare rooms often last longer than those used every night.
- Care and upkeep: Rotating the mattress and using a proper base can help extend its life.
If your bed starts feeling uneven, noisy, or uncomfortable, it might be time for a replacement.
Who Could Benefit From a Bonnell Spring Mattress?
Still deciding if this type of mattress is right for you? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
You might like a Bonnell spring mattress if:
- You prefer a firm mattress with a traditional feel and some bounce
- You’re shopping on a budget
- You need a mattress for a guest room or short-term use
- You tend to sleep on your back or stomach
You might want to look elsewhere if:
- You’re a light sleeper who shares a bed
- You prefer a mattress that hugs your body
- You have joint or pressure sensitivity
- You want something built for long-term daily use
Should You Get a Bonnell Spring Mattress?
A Bonnell spring mattress is worth considering if you’re after something firm, breathable, and budget-friendly. A Bonnell spring mattress offers straightforward support and can be a good fit for guest rooms, short-term setups, or anyone who prefers a more traditional feel.
If you’re leaning toward more long-term comfort, our hybrid mattress range uses more modern pocket springs, which offers superior motion control and support.
FAQs
What are Bonnell springs?
Bonnell springs are hourglass-shaped metal coils linked together to form the support core of a mattress. They create a firm, responsive surface that moves as one unit.
Are Bonnell spring mattresses good for daily use?
They can work for daily use, especially if you prefer a firmer feel, but they may wear out faster than other options like pocket spring or latex mattresses.
Do Bonnell spring mattresses make noise?
Over time, the coils can start to squeak or creak, especially if the mattress is older or not well maintained.
Does Ecosa offer Bonnell spring mattresses?
No, we don’t offer Bonnell spring mattresses. While they’re known for being affordable and firm, we’ve chosen to focus on pocket spring mattresses because they offer more targeted support, better motion isolation, and longer-lasting comfort.
If you’re looking for a mattress that still gives you bounce and breathability but with extra pressure relief and less partner disturbance, our pocket spring range is a great place to start.