Memory Foam vs Innerspring Mattresses: What’s Best for Sleeper Sofas?

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. What Are Memory Foam Mattresses In Sleeper Sofas?
  2. What Are Innerspring Mattresses In Sleeper Sofas?
  3. Memory Foam Vs Innerspring Sleeper Sofa
  4. Final Words
  5. FAQs

There was a time when innerspring mattresses and sleeper sofas were inseparable, or we can call them the default. But with time, sleeper sofas evolved, and different options started to be tried, and then came the memory foam mattress. 

But today, we can find both memory foam and innerspring mattresses on sofa beds, among other mattress types. You may be pondering over memory foam vs innerspring and learn which one is perfect for your sleeper sofa. 

So, we connected with our Sofa bed experts and shared it below. We have weighed the pros and cons so that you can pick the best one.

What Are Memory Foam Mattresses In Sleeper Sofas?

As the name insists, the mattress has the ability to contour to your body and gives immense comfort. So memory foam mattresses have become increasingly popular in sleeper sofas.

Originally developed by NASA, this one is made of viscoelastic material that softens with body heat and molds to the sleeper's shape. This mattress may include gel, copper, or charcoal infusions for cooling and odor control in its layers. So, basically, the top layer is memory foam and a high-density foam base for support.

Sofa beds with memory foam mattresses are a notable upgrade when compared to the traditional innerspring versions.

Some Of The Best Ways Memory Foam Mattresses For Sleeper Sofa Can Help:

1. Get superior comfort and pressure relief

This mattress molds to the body's contours and relieves pressure on key areas like the hips, shoulders, and back. This makes it more appealing for side sleepers and those who deal with joint pain.

2. Minimal motion transfer

Since the mattress absorbs the body's contours, the other person sleeping beside you is less likely to be disturbed.

3. Quiet and creak-free

The lack of metal springs or coils in memory foam makes the mattress quiet to use as if you don't hear creaks or squeaks when someone shifts during the night. 

4. Memory foam is durable

High-quality memory foam retains its shape and structure longer than basic coil systems, especially when used occasionally.

What Are Innerspring Mattresses In Sleeper Sofas?

When you think of a traditional sleeper sofa, chances are you are picturing one with an innerspring mattress. The mattress with classic coil-based mattresses that have been around for decades and, of course, for a good reason.

This mattress is made of a coil support system that is topped with comfort layers such as foam, fiber, or fabric. Plus, it also includes an insulator layer that sits between the coils and comfort layers to prevent sagging.

So, they are reliable, affordable, and offer that familiar springy feel many people grew up sleeping on. 

While they might not feel quite as modern or cushy as memory foam, innerspring mattresses still hold their own, especially when it comes to certain sleeper preferences and budget-friendly setups.

Some Of The Best Ways Memory Foam Mattresses For Sleeper Sofa Can Help:

1. Firmer, more responsive support

Innerspring is a solid alternative if you are not a fan of the "sinking in" feeling of memory foam. It gives you more bounce and firmer support, which many back and stomach sleepers look for in their mattresses.

2. Better airflow

Thanks to the open coil structure, innerspring mattresses tend to stay cooler than memory foam. This makes them a good pick for hot sleepers or warmer climates.

3. Lightweight and easy to fold

Innerspring mattresses are lighter and more flexible, which makes folding the sleeper sofa back into a sofa a little easier. This might be a simple feature, but it's something you will appreciate if you use it often.

4. Budget-friendly

If you are on a budget and need a more affordable option,  innerspring mattresses are best for your sofa bed.

Memory Foam Vs Innerspring Sleeper Sofa - Which One Is Best For What?

What is your use case?

Best Choice

Why

Back or stomach sleepers

Innerspring

Offers firmer, flatter support to keep the spine aligned

Side sleepers

Memory Foam

Cushions pressure points like hips and shoulders

Hot sleepers or warm climates

Innerspring

Better airflow thanks to open coil structure

Soft, contouring feel

Memory Foam


Conforms to body shape for a “hugging” sensation

Firm, springy feel

Innerspring

Bouncier and more responsive than foam

Occasional guest use (1–2x per month)

Memory Foam


Comfortable for short stays and occasional overnight guests

Frequent use (e.g., daily or multiple times a week)

Innerspring

Easier to fold and more durable under repeated use

Budget-conscious buyer

Innerspring

Generally more affordable than memory foam

People with joint or pressure point pain

Memory Foam


Helps relieve stress on joints and muscles

Easier to fold back into sofa

Innerspring


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Final Words

Today, you can find modern sleeper sofas boasting a memory foam mattress for the most part. So, you can stay with that option as a default. If you are upgrading the mattress, then look for other options. Ultimately, you should think about how often it will be used and who will be sleeping on it.

A memory foam mattress for a sleeper sofa is great for occasional guest use and suits you best if you are a side sleeper.

Innerspring mattresses are better for frequent use and more budget-friendly, too. Go through the table properly and decide which suits you best, and buy it. Cheers!

FAQs

1. What's better: memory foam or innerspring?

It depends on your sleep preferences. Memory foam is better for pressure relief and contours better to your body, promising comfort, while innerspring is firmer, bouncier, and offers better airflow. If you are a side sleeper or someone with joint pain, go with memory foam, while back/stomach sleepers may lean toward innerspring.

2. Can you replace an innerspring mattress with memory foam in a sleeper sofa?

Yes, many sleeper sofas or sofa beds let you replace the mattress. You can switch from innerspring to memory foam or vice versa, but make sure to match the thickness (usually 4–5 inches) and flexibility to ensure it folds properly into the sofa frame.

3. Is memory foam or innerspring better for back pain?

Memory foam is better for relieving back pain, especially if it's caused by pressure points or misalignment. It contours to the spine and provides even support. However, some people with chronic back issues may prefer the firmer, more stable support of a high-quality innerspring mattress.

4. Which is better for kids: memory foam or innerspring?

We recommend innerspring mattresses for sofa beds that are used by your younger kids because they come with firm support, breathability, and also reduce overheating. On the other hand, memory foam can be a good choice for older kids or teens who prefer a softer and more cushioned feel.