“Hybrid” is a word generally used to describe something manufactured from a combination of different components, and which is always an enhanced version of the initial creation.
So when we talk about the hybrid car, for instance, we’re talking about a vehicle that is powered by an internal combustion engine as well as an electric motor. Such car relies more on renewable energy and therefore emits less pollution making the environment safer. You see, anything “hybrid” always offer more value than the initial creation.
What Is A Hybrid Mattress?
The above analogy is aimed at helping you better understand what a hybrid mattress is. Hybrid mattresses are a combination of other popular mattress types. More specifically, hybrid mattresses are mattresses with a fine combination of innerspring support core with a different but comfort layer of memory foam or latex.
These beds are specially designed to provide the best features of other mattress types while minimizing the downsides. Consequently, hybrid mattresses are usually less bouncy than innerspring mattresses, so you’re likely not to be disturbed whenever your partner turns in bed, but at the same time, bouncy enough for your joints. Also, hybrid mattresses have enhanced contouring support like foam mattresses which help provide a much cooler sleeping surface.
The Components Of A Hybrid Mattress
The quality of a hybrid mattress largely depends on the quality of the construction material used as underneath layers, and they vary among companies. Meanwhile, the average hybrid mattress is made up of the following components.
A base foam layer: this is usually beneath the support core, and it gives stability and extra padding to the bed. This layer is typically one inch thick and made of polyurethane foam. A coil support core: this part is responsible for the height of the bed, and is about 6 to 7 inches high. A pocketed coil design in hybrid mattresses let them have better support and motion transfer.
A comfort layer: this layer is made of foam or latex or a combination of both, and just as the name suggests, it provides the needed comfort. The foam-latex combination ratio varies from company to company, but you can get a customized ratio if you buy from one of the companies that sell the best hybrid mattress on the market.
A pillow top layer: although this layer is not common in all hybrid mattresses, most of them have it. The pillow top is a sewn thin layer above the comfort layer. It is made of memory foam, wool, cotton, latex, etc.
Meanwhile, beyond the different layers and the comfort that hybrid mattresses offer, there are other important factors to be considered while looking to buy a hybrid foam. These factors include:
Density
The density of a mattress is a measure of how much compression it’s able to handle before it loses its compatibility and support. A mattress density is measured in pounds per cubic foot. While a high-grade density foam will enhance isolation, it will also take the longest time to recover its shape. The opposite is the case if you decide to opt-in for a low-grade density foam instead. So, a medium-grade density is recommended if you want a balance between contour and regaining shape.
Indentation Load Deflection
Indentation load deflection, ILD, measures the firmness of a mattress. This means that the higher the ILD, the firmer the bed and less contour you feel when you sleep on it. Similar to density, ILD too has different types. If you’re overweight or a stomach sleeper, a hybrid mattress with a higher ILD is recommended. But if you’re lightweight or a side sleeper, go for a lower ILD instead.
Gauge
The gauge measures merely the thickness of the pocketed coils of a mattress. The thicker the coil, the thinner the pocket, and the firmer the foam. Gauge ranges between 12 and 18 on the thick and thin end respectively.
Coil Count
The coil count of a mattress has a relative effect on its lifespan. Lower coil counts mean shorter lifespans, up to 1000. Meanwhile, higher coil count means higher cost even though the durability is not guaranteed.
How Much Does A Hybrid Mattress Cost?
- On average, a quality hybrid mattress costs around £700. Meanwhile, if you want a more luxurious hybrid mattress, then you should be willing to pay as high as £2,000. The design of hybrid mattresses seems to be minimalist. At a very reasonable price, you get to enjoy the fantastic sleeping experience and a great warranty.
What’s The Lifespan Of A Hybrid Mattress
- A hybrid mattress averages 6 to 10 years lifespan, although it is less in some brands of mattresses. Basically, the lifespan of a hybrid mattress depends largely on the quality of the products used, especially the polyurethane foam.
– It’s also been established that the pocketed coils tend to decrease the durability of a mattress unlike hybrid mattresses with other forms of coils such as offset or Bonnell.
Pros Of A Hybrid Mattress
- The sleeping surface of a hybrid mattress does not accumulate heat, hence making it always cool.
You can get a customizable range of firmness and contouring as you desire.
– Due to the presence of pocketed coils, hybrid mattresses have a better bounce compared to other mattresses.
The ILD feature lets hybrid mattresses provide enhanced contour abilities.
– Hybrid mattresses minimize motion transfer due to the way the different layers are optimized.
Cons Of Hybrid Mattress
– Hybrid mattresses are more expensive than other forms of mattresses.
– When newly purchased, hybrid mattresses produce a lot of off-gassing odour.
– The multiple components of a hybrid mattress make them cumbersome and difficult to move.
Conclusion
Considering the many pros of hybrid mattresses, it’s safe to say that hybrid mattresses are the beauty of the mattress industry. With hybrid mattresses, you can now get to experience what a sound sleep truly means.