A Hybrid Mattress – The Best of Both Worlds

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What is a hybrid mattress?

Of course, we define anything that is hybrid as a combination of two or more elements. For instance, hybrid cars utilize an electric and a gasoline engine.  A hybrid mattress is also a combination of two things – a multi-layer bed constructed with the firmness of a spring mattress and the comfort and contouring of a cushion layer of latex. As you might expect, this is what provides the best of both worlds. You get a coil-based support core and a cushioning comfort system that combine to give an excellent night of sleep. Putting these two elements together means you not only receive relief for pressure points and the softness that comes from latex but also good edge support and bounce typically associated with an innerspring mattress.

Putting these two elements together means you not only receive relief for pressure points and the softness that comes from latex but also good edge support and bounce typically associated with an innerspring mattress.

 What are the components of a hybrid bed?

What exactly makes up the inside of a hybrid mattress? In most hybrid mattresses there are typically 2 to 4 layers.

  1. Some, but not all, hybrid mattresses start with a 1-inch base layer.
  2. Next, the support layer is typically the thickest layer that provides most of the mattress’s height. It is comprised of pocket coils and provides spinal support. Our Naturepedic hybrid mattresses allow you to customize the firmness of this layer.
  3. The comfort layer is typically made of latex and can be 2 to 6 inches thick. A true hybrid will have at least two inches in the comfort layer. This layer allows for cushioning and contouring and can usually be customized in firmness as well.
  4. Pillow top: Available on a few hybrid mattresses, this layer often has its own zippered compartment and ranges from 1 to 3 inches.  It provides additional plush comfort. 

     


What are the benefits of hybrid mattresses?

They are breathable.

Because of the air circulation in and around the coils, hybrid mattresses can be quite breathable. This helps you to sleep cooler, which, in turn, helps you to sleep more deeply.

They are customizable, which may help with back pain.

Many hybrids are customizable so that you can get just the support you need, providing cushioning and the right alignment. Having a mattress that is too firm or not firm enough is detrimental to your alignment. However, when you can specify the amount of firmness, you can give your body what it needs. Then, the comfort layer will cushion pressure points, while the springs can provide responsiveness. Pocketed coils reduce motion transfer and provide a more peaceful night of sleep.

They have improved responsiveness and durability

If you move around at night, you’ll find a hybrid mattress can adjust to your different positions easily. Because of the strong spring layer, they can often last for many years without bending or sagging.

They provide a compromise

If you share a bed with someone who has different support needs, a hybrid can help. Because hybrids are often customizable, you can often adjust each side to fit the needs of each partner.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do hybrid mattresses last?

Our hybrids have a 20-year warranty.

 Do you need a box spring with a hybrid mattress?

Unlike a traditional mattress, hybrid mattresses do not need a box spring and can be set on slatted platform beds. If you desire more height, you can opt to set the mattress on a box spring. For more customization, you can use adjustable bed frames to shift the mattresses and move your head and feet to where they can get more comfortable. 

Are hybrid mattresses good for back sleepers?

Because many hybrid mattresses are customizable, they are great for back sleepers (as well as side sleepers).  The coils will offer you firm support, and you can often customize the latex layer to the firmness of your choice, which allows for firmness as well as contouring.


The Naturepedic EOS Pillowtop mattress on our site has been selected as the Best Sustainable Mattress by Good Housekeeping for 2021.

Check out hybrid mattresses

Originally published May 15, 2021

Updated April 2022