What Does Coil Count Mean in Mattresses?

Coil count is one way to help you determine the right mattress for your needs.

The support system inside a traditional mattress is made up of a number of wire coils or springs which compress under pressure, supporting you as you sleep.

Coil Count

The coil count is the number of coils or springs inside the mattress. This number can range from 200 in smaller mattresses to as many as 1,000 in high-end king-size models.

Quantity Versus Quality

While more coils can indicate better support by spreading your body weight over more springs, the type of wire used plays a role as well. Using a thicker wire than the standard can allow a manufacturer to provide the same level of support with fewer coils.

Coil Types

Many manufacturers use interlocked coils, which work together to distribute weight and offer firm support. Others use individual coils, which reduce the feeling of motion by flexing independently of the springs around them and provide a softer feel.

Guidelines

As a rule of thumb, a twin-size mattress should have at least 300 coils, a queen 375, and a king 450. Fewer coils can cause a feeling of uncomfortable pressure points rather than solid support.

Test It Yourself

While the numbers can give you an idea of the construction quality of the mattress, you should test them in the showroom to be sure you're getting the right mattress for your needs.

References

• Best Bed Guide: Mattress Coils - The Core of the Matter
• Strobel Technologies: How To Buy a Mattress