Open Coil vs. Polyurethane Foam

Open Coil

Open coil mattresses are also called traditional innerspring mattresses. They have interconnected coils in a metal mesh that provide even support across the mattress surface.

Many open coil systems use hour glass shaped springs in their interconnected systems so that the evenness is distributed from the top to bottom.

Though this system is good at providing even support, there are complaints of aggravated pressure points and discomfort with open coil systems.

Pros: Durable materials and traditional even feel.

Cons: Pressure point discomfort and motion transfer issues.

Polyurethane Foam

Polyurethane foam is a blanket term that includes any foam that is synthesized using polyol and diisocyanate. These include but are not limited to: memory foam, high resilience foam, and high density foam. Since polyurethane foam can contain additives, a manufacturer that comes up with a new formula can name the new foam whatever they like.

Many memory foam mattresses are a combination of polyurethane foams, layered from dense on the bottom to less dense on the surface layers.

Polyurethane is a synthetic blend of organic compounds and has a tendency to off-gas. If you are susceptible to lung issues, please do additional research on the quality of foams before purchasing.

Pros: Many different types of foams exist under the polyurethane umbrella -- some are excellent for bedding and offer different firmness varieties!

Cons: Off-gassing and durability problems with lower quality foams.

Learn More About Open Coil

Learn More About Polyurethane Foam

See Our Top Mattress Choices

Material Scores

Overall Score:
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.4/10

Comfort:
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.4/10

Softness:
Open Coil: 8.4/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10

Cooling:
Open Coil: 9.5/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8/10

Hypoallergenic:
Open Coil: 9.4/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.1/10

No Odor:
Open Coil: 9.4/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.4/10

General Support:
Open Coil: 8.9/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10

Eco-Conscious:
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.5/10

Price Value:
Open Coil: 8.4/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10