Sleep Advice & Buying Guides

Pocket Counts: What Do They Mean?

On By Bedworld
Rows of individual springs, each sewn into its own fabric pocket

When you shop for a pocket sprung mattress, you'll see numbers like 1000, 2000 or 3000 in the name. That's the pocket count, and it's one of the biggest factors in how a mattress feels and supports you. But what does it actually mean, and does a higher number always mean a better mattress?

Here's everything you need to know. Or go straight to our pocket sprung mattresses.

What is a pocket count?

A pocket sprung mattress is made of individual springs, each sewn into its own fabric pocket. Because every spring moves on its own, the mattress contours to your body and absorbs movement, so you're less likely to feel your partner turning over.

The pocket count is the number of these springs in the mattress. More springs generally means smaller springs working more closely together, giving more precise support.

Pocket counts explained

Pocket count Support Best for
1000 to 1500 Standard Guest rooms, children's beds, lighter sleepers
1500 to 2000 Enhanced Everyday use, medium to firm support
2000 to 3000 Premium Heavier sleepers, extra support for back and joints
3000 to 19,000 Luxury The most precise support and contouring

1000 to 1500 springs: standard support

A great entry point to pocket sprung comfort. These mattresses give balanced support and good durability without a premium price, making them a popular choice for guest rooms, children's beds and lighter sleepers who don't need as much contouring.

1500 to 2000 springs: enhanced support

A step up in support and cushioning, and a great balance of value and performance for everyday sleep. These mattresses contour more closely to your body and suit most people who like a medium to firm feel.

2000 to 3000 springs: premium support

More springs means more responsive support across different areas of your body. These mattresses help keep your spine well aligned and suit heavier sleepers and anyone wanting extra support for their back and joints.

3000 to 19,000 springs: luxury comfort

High pocket counts are usually found in luxury mattresses. They give the most precise support and body contouring, and are often combined with extra comfort layers such as memory foam or natural fillings for a plush, supportive feel. Our highest counts, up to 19,000 springs, are in our handmade natural mattresses.

Is a higher pocket count always better?

Not necessarily. A higher count usually means more precise support, but it doesn't automatically make a mattress right for you. Firmness, the comfort layers on top, your body weight and how you sleep all matter just as much. A lighter sleeper may find a very high spring count feels firmer than they'd like, while a heavier sleeper may need the extra support.

Think of pocket count as one part of the picture, alongside firmness and fillings.

How to choose the right pocket sprung mattress

  • Consider your weight and sleeping position: heavier sleepers and back sleepers often benefit from higher counts and firmer support.
  • Check the comfort layers: memory foam, pillow tops and natural fillings change the feel as much as the springs do.
  • Think about who's sharing: pocket springs are excellent at reducing partner disturbance.
  • Try before you buy: if you can, visit one of our stores to feel the difference.

Find your pocket sprung mattress

We offer pocket sprung mattresses from 1000 springs to luxury models with up to 19,000, many with memory foam or natural comfort layers, all with free delivery. Shop pocket sprung mattresses, or pair one with a pocket sprung divan bed.

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