Memory Foam vs Innerspring Mattresses: What’s Best for Sleeper Sofas?
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- What Are Memory Foam Mattresses In Sleeper Sofas?
- What Are Innerspring Mattresses In Sleeper Sofas?
- Memory Foam Vs Innerspring Sleeper Sofa
- Final Words
- 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 |
anisms |
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.