What an orthopedic mattress is made of

An orthopedic mattress is one that helps the spine settle into its correct anatomical shape while you sleep. A proper physiological position lets the body relax, improves the blood supply to the spine and the internal organs, and delivers genuine rest. Anyone buying one wants to know what an orthopedic mattress actually contains.

How mattresses are built and what goes into them

Structurally, orthopedic mattresses are layered: a base, an insulating layer, a comfort layer and a cover. Different combinations of layers produce different firmness levels, and medium-firm orthopedic mattresses are generally considered the sweet spot. Let us start with the base. There are two types: with springs and without. Spring systems come in interconnected and independent versions.

The most common options are:

• a Bonnell spring unit — inexpensive, which is its main advantage; the drawback is the rigid link between the springs, which limits orthopedic performance;
• an independent pocket spring unit — barrel-shaped springs in individual fabric pockets that absorb pressure point by point without dragging their neighbours along;
• a springless construction, which combines materials such as latex, spunbond and coconut coir, alternating them in layers to deliver the firmness required.

A medium-firm springless orthopedic mattress combines latex and coconut coir in equal measure. The additional fillings play an important part too. They come in natural and synthetic forms. The natural ones are steamed coconut fibres, latex (the sap of the hevea tree), linen and jute felt, cotton fabric and sheep's wool. The synthetic ones include polyurethane foam (PU foam), hollow fiber and struttofiber.

Mattress characteristics by firmness level

Manufacturers divide all orthopedic mattresses into three types:

1. Firm models: springless, with layers of latex, coir and high-density foam; suited to heavier sleepers. If the mattress does not deform under load, it counts as firm (single-block or combined designs).
2. Medium firm: the most widespread and the most universal type. A medium-firm orthopedic mattress can be built in many ways: spring bases (interconnected or independent), springless cores, fillings such as sea grass, horsehair, wool or cotton, and memory foam.
3. Soft versions: elastic, offering less resistance to the body; the materials are springy, adapt to body weight and recover their shape quickly.

The cover matters when choosing a mattress as well. It is made from natural or synthetic fibres, with jacquard, knit and other textile finishes among the popular choices.