Pocket Sprung Mattress Firmness Levels Explained
Pocket sprung mattress firmness levels range from soft through medium to firm, with each level offering different support based on body weight, sleeping position and mattress size. Choosing the right firmness prevents sinking too far or floating on top, ensuring your spine stays aligned whether you sleep on your side, back or front. UK standard sizes such as single 90x190cm (3ft), double 135x190cm (4ft6), king 150x200cm (5ft) and super king 180x200cm (6ft) all come in these firmness options, so measure your bed frame first before comparing.
What Is a Pocket Sprung Mattress?
Pocket sprung mattresses contain hundreds or thousands of individual fabric-wrapped springs that move independently. This design contours to the body better than open coil mattresses, reducing partner disturbance and providing targeted support at the shoulders, hips and lower back. Most combine the springs with layers of foam or natural fillings on top. Check the full specifications on product pages because exact pocket count and top layers determine the final feel.
If you prefer a different construction, explore our Memory Foam Mattresses or Hybrid Mattresses which often layer memory foam over pocket springs for added pressure relief.
Understanding Firmness Levels
Firmness is measured on a scale where 1 is ultra soft and 10 is extra firm. Soft pocket sprung mattresses allow deeper sinkage at the shoulders and hips, ideal for side sleepers. Medium offers balanced support for most people who change positions at night. Firm resists compression more, suiting stomach sleepers or those who need to stop the hips sinking and maintain lumbar alignment. These levels are not standardised across brands, so always lie on the mattress in-store at our Birstall showroom to test. A practical checklist: lie on your usual sleeping side for at least 10 minutes; your spine should form a straight line parallel to the floor when viewed from the side.
Soft Firmness (1-3)
Soft pocket sprung mattresses cradle the body and relieve pressure on bony areas. They suit lighter side sleepers on a small single 75x190cm (2ft6) or standard single 90x190cm (3ft). The springs compress easily under the shoulders, preventing neck strain. However, heavier users may bottom out on soft models, especially in a double 135x190cm size shared with a partner. Check the maximum mattress depth allowed by your bed frame before buying.
Medium Firmness (4-6)
Medium is the most popular choice for couples and average-weight adults. It provides enough give for shoulder comfort yet supports the lower back for back and side sleepers. On a king 150x200cm mattress, medium firmness minimises roll-together while still allowing easy movement. Decision rule: if you wake with shoulder pain but no lower-back ache, medium usually works. View our full range of Medium Firm Mattresses to compare options.
Firm and Orthopaedic Firmness (7-10)
Firm pocket sprung mattresses limit sinkage to keep the spine neutral for stomach sleepers and heavier adults. Orthopaedic versions add extra zoned support or denser springs in the centre third of the mattress. On a super king 180x200cm, firm models prevent the centre from sagging under combined weight. Checklist before purchase: confirm your bed base can take the weight; measure current mattress depth; test by pressing firmly at the edge – it should rebound without collapsing. See the dedicated Firm Mattresses and Orthopaedic Mattresses categories for suitable choices.
How to Choose Firmness for Your Body Type and Sleep Position
Match firmness to three factors: weight, position and size. Side sleepers need softer shoulders (medium or soft) to stop pressure points. Back sleepers benefit from medium to firm so the lumbar curve is supported without a gap under the lower back. Stomach sleepers require firm to prevent the pelvis tilting forward; a medium-firm top layer can still cushion the chest. Couples on double, king or super king mattresses should consider dual firmness if weight differs. Practical tip: use a tape measure to check shoulder-to-hip distance; if over 45cm, choose a model with deeper comfort layers. Always test in the position you sleep in most.
Pocket Sprung Mattresses for Children and Teens
Children need firmer support to protect developing spines. A medium-firm pocket sprung mattress on a small single or single size prevents slumping. Top bunks must follow BS EN 747 with guard rails at least 16cm above the mattress surface, so select the exact depth stated by the maker and never exceed it. Cot mattresses are typically 60x120cm and toddler versions 70x140cm; both should be firm to support growing bones. Our Kids' Pocket Sprung Mattresses meet UK fire safety regulations (BS 7177) and are tested to the same standards as adult mattresses. Avoid soft options for under-6s on any bunk.
Comparing Pocket Sprung with Other Mattress Types
Pocket sprung offers better edge support and breathability than all-foam memory options but less motion isolation than latex. Hybrid designs combine both. If you like the bounce of springs but want cooling, consider natural fillings. Open coil mattresses are cheaper but transfer more movement, so pocket sprung is preferable for couples. Use this simple decision table to compare:
| Type | Firmness Range | Best For | UK Size Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pocket Sprung | Soft to Firm | Couples, back/side sleepers | King 150x200cm |
| Memory Foam | Medium to Firm | Pressure relief, single sleepers | Double 135x190cm |
| Hybrid | Medium-Firm | Combination of bounce and contouring | Super King 180x200cm |
| Open Coil | Medium | Budget, lighter users | Single 90x190cm |
Full selection is available in our main Mattresses category. For size-specific shopping, browse Single Mattresses, Double Mattresses, King Size Mattresses or Super King Mattresses.
Practical Checklist Before Buying
- Measure your bed frame inside dimensions exactly (add 2cm clearance).
- Note your weight, partner’s weight and usual sleeping position.
- Decide on overall depth needed – deeper mattresses suit taller frames but check base height.
- Test in store on the exact size you will buy; a single 90x190cm feels different from a king 150x200cm.
- Confirm the mattress meets UK fire safety rules (Furniture and Furnishings Regulations 1988 and BS 7177).
- For kids, verify BS EN 747 compliance on bunk beds and never exceed stated maximum mattress depth.
Following these steps reduces returns and improves sleep quality. If you need extra cushioning without changing firmness, a separate mattress topper can be added later.
Our picks for this guide
- Maxitex Orthopaedic Pocket Sprung Mattress – This firm pocket sprung mattress provides the higher support level needed by heavier adults and those with back pain while still offering zoned comfort layers.
- Maxitex Nirvana Pocket Sprung Mattress – A versatile medium-firm option that suits most body weights and multiple sleeping positions on standard UK double through super king sizes.
- Noomi Bamboo Natural Latex Pocket Sprung Mattress – Combines pocket springs with natural latex for a responsive medium feel that stays cooler and offers excellent pressure relief for side sleepers.
- Maxitex Kids Premier Sprung Mattress – Delivers the firmer support children need on single or toddler sizes while meeting all UK fire safety and bunk bed regulations.
Frequently asked questions
What firmness level is best for side sleepers?
Side sleepers usually need soft to medium so the shoulder and hip can sink enough to keep the spine straight. On a 135x190cm double or 150x200cm king, test by lying on your side for 15 minutes; there should be no pressure on the shoulder and no gap under the waist.
Can I use a firm pocket sprung mattress on a divan base?
Yes, firm pocket sprung mattresses work on most divan, slatted or solid bases. Ensure the slats are no more than 7cm apart to prevent springs sagging. For a super king 180x200cm, a sturdy base is essential. Always check the product page for recommended base types.
How does pocket count affect firmness?
Higher pocket counts usually allow more precise zoning so the mattress can feel supportive yet adaptive. The top comfort layers ultimately determine the final firmness rating.
Are pocket sprung mattresses suitable for children under 6?
Medium-firm pocket sprung mattresses are suitable for children over 2 when used on the floor or low beds. Top bunks are not recommended under age 6 and must have guard rails 16cm above the mattress per BS EN 747. Cot and toddler sizes (60x120cm or 70x140cm) should be firm to support growing spines and meet fire safety standards.
What is the difference between medium and medium-firm?
Medium offers balanced cushioning with moderate support; medium-firm adds extra resistance in the core springs so heavier adults or stomach sleepers do not sink at the hips. On a 150x200cm king, medium-firm reduces motion transfer between partners. Test both in the showroom.
Related guides
- Hybrid vs Pocket Sprung Mattress: Key Differences Explained
- Pocket Sprung Mattress Tog and Depth Guide
- Do You Need to Turn a Pocket Sprung Mattress?
- Best Pocket Sprung Mattress for Side Sleepers in the UK
- Pocket Sprung vs Continuous Spring Mattress Compared
- Memory Foam vs Pocket Sprung Mattress: Which Is Best?