Trade guide
Mattress types for trade buyers: open coil, pocket sprung, foam and hybrid
Short answer: Open coil mattresses use connected springs and are a practical, lower-cost choice for high-turnover rooms. Pocket sprung mattresses use individually wrapped springs for more targeted support. Memory foam mattresses mould to the body, and hybrids combine springs with foam layers. For contract use, specify the BS 7177 fire category your risk assessment requires as well as the type.
Key facts
- maxiTEX and Noomi mattresses are available to Flair trade accounts.
- Open coil examples: maxiTEX Roma and Europaedic.
- Pocket and hybrid examples: maxiTEX 1000 pocket, Orthopaedic pocket and Hybrid 3000.
- Crib 5 and Source 5 options for contract use on request.
Comparison
| Type | Construction | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Open coil | Springs linked together in one unit | HMOs, student rooms, holiday parks, guest beds |
| Pocket sprung | Springs in individual fabric pockets | Hotels, B&Bs, retail customers wanting more support |
| Memory foam | Foam layers that mould to the body | Retail, serviced apartments; often roll-packed |
| Hybrid | Pocket springs with foam comfort layers | Higher-spec rooms and retail |
Choosing by use
- High-turnover rooms: open coil with a waterproof protector. See open coil and contract.
- Hotels and B&Bs: pocket sprung or hybrid. See pocket sprung.
- Online retail: roll-packed foam and hybrids are easier to deliver. See memory foam and hybrid.
- Kids, bunks and raised beds: correct size and no thicker than the marked maximum. See kids' mattresses.
Roll-packed mattresses
Some mattresses are delivered roll-packed, which makes them easier to carry through tight spaces. Natural latex and foam need time to expand after unrolling; product pages give the time for each model (for example, up to 72 hours for the Noomi Bamboo natural latex mattress).
Fire rating
Domestic mattresses are normally tested to BS 7177 Low Hazard. Hotels, halls and similar premises usually need Medium Hazard (Crib 5). See mattress fire regulations.
Size and depth
Check the size name and depth on every product page. See UK bed and mattress sizes. Finish with protectors, toppers and pillows.
Frequently asked questions
Which mattress is best for an HMO or student room?
What is the difference between open coil and pocket sprung?
Are roll-packed mattresses as good as flat-packed ones?
Which brands of mattress can I buy from Flair Trade?
Shop the categories
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Need prices, stock or a quote?
Trade prices and delivery charges are shown only to approved accounts or confirmed in a written quote; we do not publish them in guides. apply for a trade account, request a contract quote, or call 01924 950955 (Mon to Thu 9am to 5pm, Fri 9am to 4pm).
Flair Trade is a trading name of Flair Furniture Ltd, Old Delivery Office, Oldfield Lane, Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire WF16 0JD. Registered in England and Wales, company no. 7536751. VAT no. GB121713455.