Posted by Emma Carlton - Buying and Merchandising Manager on 21st Sep 2023
Hybrid Mattress Buying Guide
When it comes to shopping for a new mattress, hybrid is a popular choice. But is it the right mattress for you? In this guide we’ll explore everything you need to know when it comes to hybrid mattresses.
From the different combination of materials a hybrid mattress features to how this could benefit you while you sleep and beyond, we’re here to set the record straight. Read on to learn everything you need to know.
What is a hybrid mattress?
Hybrid mattresses (or combination mattresses as they’re sometimes called) are created from a combination of individually wrapped pocket springs that make up the support system and a foam, gel, or latex comfort layer that forms the sleep surface. This combination of materials delivers both pressure-relieving properties and superior support.
Hybrid mattresses provide a sleep surface that contours to the curves of your body to relieve pressure points. And at the same times, the pocket springs offer reliable support and responsiveness to keep motion transfer to a minimum.
Hybrid mattress materials
As explained earlier, hybrid mattresses are created using a combination of pocket springs with a layer of memory foam, gel or latex. The foam, gel or latex becomes the comfort system which is layered over the top of the pocket spring support which forms the core of the mattress.
The central support system of pocket springs is made up of metal coils that can vary in both thickness, and number. And we should point out that hybrid mattresses usually feature pocket springs given their superior ability to minimise motion transfer.
What sleep position is a hybrid mattress best for?
The beauty of a hybrid mattress is that the combination of pocket springs and the memory foam, latex or gel comfort layer are ideal for every preferred sleep position.
Your primary sleep position is determined by which position you spend the most time in each night. Your preferred sleep position determines the level of support you’ll need to maintain proper spinal alignment and which firmness level will best cushion your pressure points.
Both your body type and your personal preference will also factor in while deciding which mattress is the very best option for you too.
Side sleepers: In general, side sleepers require a dense comfort layer that offers slight contouring to cushion their hips and shoulders. Firmer sleep surfaces are not recommended as they may not provide adequate relief for pressure points. Hybrid mattresses are ideal for side sleepers given that their design incorporates a plush sleeping surface. What’s more, side sleepers will also benefit from the responsiveness of the premium support offered by the pocket springs, which help to keep the spine correctly aligned. But body weight also plays its role in determining the best sleep surface for an individual. More on that a little later one.
Back sleepers: Back sleepers require a mattress that will mould to the shape of their lower back to keep their spine aligned while they sleep. So, back sleepers generally need to avoid soft-comfort memory foam layers which may not be equipped to provide the levels of support a back sleeper needs. That said, the weight of the sleeper comes into play too. A hybrid mattress featuring zoned pocket springs can help to deliver the extra lumbar support a back sleeper relies on.
Stomach sleepers: Stomach sleepers require a firm sleep surface. It’s highly likely that memory foam comfort layers will feel too soft for the majority of stomach sleepers. Hybrid mattresses featuring a latex comfort layer are a much better choice for stomach sleepers, as they offer firmer support levels that will help promote correct spinal alignment.
How does body type influence which mattress firmness is correct?
Body type also has an impact on which mattress firmness is recommended. For anyone weighing in between 9 and 16 stone, sticking to the right firmness level for your sleep position is best. However, people weighing below 9st or above the 16st will need to take their weight into account.
If your total body weight is under 9st, you may find that the firmness level below the one that’s recommended for your primary sleep position is a much comfier option. A softer mattress helps lightweight sleepers achieve enough compression to cushion their pressure points while they sleep.
And should you weigh above 16st, the firmness level above the one recommended for your preferred sleep position could offer better support. This is because firmer mattresses keep the body on top of the sleeping surface and prevent sinkage, ultimately keeping the spine aligned as it should be.
Pros and cons of a hybrid mattress
As with everything, there are pros and cons to buying a hybrid mattress. So, let’s learn a little bit more about the negatives and positives of hybrid mattresses.
Pros of a hybrid mattress
- Hybrid mattresses can help you stay cool at night. As hybrid mattresses combine pocket springs with memory foam, gel, or latex comfort layers, they promote airflow. And, this improved airflow helps to keep you cool at night.
- Tailor your comfort level to your needs. As with other types of mattress, hybrid mattresses are available in soft, medium, firm and extra firm. This allows you to tailor your comfort level to your individual requirements and preferred sleep position.
- Built-in edge support. The majority of hybrid mattresses come equipped with built-in edge support. This helps to prevent that dreaded rolling off the edge of the bed feeling by offering additional support up to the very edge of the mattress. Enjoy the perception of a larger overall sleeping space with a hybrid mattress.
- Delivers support and cushions pressure points at the same time. Hybrid mattresses are designed to delivery both support and comfort. Keep your spine correctly aligned and support your pressure points throughout the night with the combination of pocket springs and a plush comfort layer.
Cons of a hybrid mattress
- Hybrid mattresses are heavy. The combination of materials makes for a weighty mattress which can make lifting and carrying them a bit tricky. Make sure you enlist some help if needed.
- They can be expensive. A hybrid mattress is generally one of the more expensive types of mattresses you can buy. This is because hybrid mattresses combine two mattress technologies in a single mattress. But, if you are adhering to a strict budget, you may find that the hybrid range isn’t available at a suitable price point. That said, a hybrid mattress is a worthwhile investment in terms of longevity.
- Hybrid mattresses cannot be flipped. Many of us routinely flip our mattresses to refresh our sleep space and promote even wear. Switching to a hybrid mattress will put an end to this. This is because hybrids are topped with memory foam, latex or gel. So, they have been designed to with a top side and a bottom side – the two are not interchangeable. You will, however, need to rotate the mattress intermittently which will help to refresh you sleep space while promoting even wear.
What size do hybrid mattresses come in?
Just like other types of mattresses, hybrid mattress models are available in a range of sizes:
- Single hybrid mattresses (90cm x 190cm)
- Small double hybrid mattresses (120cm x 190cm)
- Double hybrid mattresses (135cm x 190cm)
- King size hybrid mattresses (150cm x 200cm)
- Super king hybrid mattresses (180cm x 200cm)
So, no matter how much or how little space you have, finding the right size mattress is super easy.
What is the difference between a hybrid mattress and other types of mattresses?
Hybrid and traditional spring mattresses are similar, but there are also some stark differences. Hybrid mattresses are defined by their combination of springs and either memory foam, latex or get. Usually more than one-third of a mattress’ height is made up of this secondary material.
A pocket spring mattress, on the other hand, is created from a core of individually wrapped supportive springs and topped with a much thinner comfort layer than you would see in a hybrid mattress.
Which is better: hybrid mattresses or memory foam?
Memory foam mattresses and hybrid mattresses both boast thick comfort layers that have been added to cushion pressure points and reduce motion transfer.
Memory foam mattresses are made up mainly of memory foam. That said, some memory foam models do utilise other materials in their manufacturing makeup to enhance its overall performance.
The comfort system offered by a hybrid mattress may vary a lot more in terms of materials. Hybrid mattresses can combine springs with latex, gel, memory foam, or a combination of several materials.
The key difference between memory foam and hybrid mattresses is found in the support system. Most memory foam mattresses contain a high-density polyfoam core. Hybrids use the more traditional pocket spring system. And the right fit for you comes down to personal preferences, sleep position and budget.
What is a hybrid mattress in a box?
A hybrid mattress in a box is just like any other mattress in a box. It will arrive rolled. And it will also need to be allowed time to breathe and regain its usual shape before you sleep on it.
Final word
When it comes to choosing the right hybrid mattress for you, let your sleep position be your driving force. It will guide you in the direction of the correct levels of both support and comfort for your personal sleep preferences.
If you’d like to learn more about the Bensons for Beds range of thick and thin pillows, you can always pop into your local Bensons store and speak with one of our sleep experts. They’re all dedicated to finding you the best solutions for your personal sleep needs and are always happy to help.
