Bonnell spring block: what is it?

What types of spring blocks are there?

Not all mattresses are created equal inside. Some have connected springs, some do not. Let's look at what a Bonnell spring block is, how springs are laid in a mattress, and what are the advantages of dependent and independent springs.

Bonnell spring block

Bonnell box springs are the most widely used option in the world for mattresses and beds. Frames undergo heat treatment processes to prevent sagging.

It is possible to produce wire with a width of 1.90 to 2.50 mm and a spiral with 4-5-6 turns for various height characteristics.

Customers often ask: What is the difference between a Bonnell spring mattress and regular mattresses? The answer is simple - reliability, durability, aesthetics and low noise level.

Independent spring block

It is believed to have been invented by James Marshall in Canada in 1899. This type of box spring only became popular in the 1970s when manufacturers found a way to mass produce the box spring style. Before this, several prototypes were made by hand.

Independent units are a great, inexpensive choice, while dependent units are a more premium option.

Individual coils of wire were hidden in pockets of fabric, which allow the coils to move independently of each other and follow the shape of the sleeper's body. Experts agree that these options provide unmatched support and comfort compared to any other type.

The softer box spring design can also be comfortable enough to sleep on long after the foam has lost its bounce, so you can sleep on this mattress for much longer before it needs to be replaced.

Most good quality independent spring designs will have at least 600 individual pockets in an XXL (king size) unit, which is more than enough to provide proper support and meet all standards.

Advantages and disadvantages

Many people believe that the dependent spring unit has long been outdated and is no good. This is a marketing myth. The truth is not so clear. The bonnel has its pros and cons, and they need to be taken into account when purchasing.

Advantages of bonnell spring modules:

Low cost compared to independent type modules. Bonnell is often used by manufacturers of budget furniture. But you need to understand that the dependent block also comes in different prices and quality.
Sustainability. Due to the fact that all springs are connected to the frame, displacement is eliminated. Accordingly, the sofa seat does not sag and holds its shape better. If we are talking about a frame mattress, it does not wobble, which is important for people with light sleepers.
High degree of reliability. On average, a Bonnell spring unit lasts about 15 years, but in practice there are cases where sofas and mattresses have not failed for more than 20 years. A long service life is ensured by the use of high-quality steel, and the fact that all elements are interconnected eliminates the displacement of individual springs.
Elasticity. Bicone spirals connected into a block do not sag completely even under increased load. Therefore, the mattress absorbs perfectly.
Hygiene. The spring block inside is almost hollow, thanks to this, normal air exchange and ventilation are maintained. And this, in turn, reduces the likelihood of mold and pathogenic bacteria appearing in mattresses and sofas.
Strength. Mattresses and sofas with a bonnel module are an excellent choice for children's rooms. Such upholstered furniture is quite capable of withstanding jumping and other children's pranks.

Despite the fact that the bonnell block has significant advantages, it is not without its disadvantages. You should find out about them in advance so as not to be disappointed after the purchase.

Cons of the bonnel module:

The main disadvantage of the design is the so-called “hammock effect”. The maximum deflection is formed in the tailbone area, and the head and legs are slightly raised. The more springs and the better the non-woven layer above them, the less this effect is felt.
The second significant disadvantage is that if two people are resting on a mattress, then the movements of one will also be felt by the second. This is the most significant and fatal drawback of the Bonnel and any other classic spring blocks.
Inexpensive varieties of mattresses with a bonnel block are not equipped with polyurethane plugs. Therefore, over time, the fastenings begin to creak. To extend the life of an inexpensive mattress, it is recommended to turn it over once every 3 months.

Production technology

Bonnell spring mattress - what is it? It is one of the earliest types of technology on the market. Bonnell designs are described as coupled coil technology. This type of mattress tends to be firmer due to its internal structure.

Because the coils are interconnected, this type of system tends to be more sensitive to movement. This means that when someone moves on one side of the bed, the person on the other end of the bed can also feel the movement.

However, Bonnell mattresses tend to be durable and affordable for many (due to their low price).

Care instructions

Budget mattresses with Bonnell spring blocks are in high demand among buyers, despite a number of their shortcomings. For example, the hammock effect they create. They are most often used as a guest or country house option.

If you decide to use the mattress as the main sleeping place, it is recommended to follow the recommendations for its use in order to extend its service life. The main condition is to turn the mattress over regularly, once every six months, so that the springs are compressed evenly and no dips or protruding springs appear.

If all care recommendations are followed, Bonnell dependent springs last on average at least 15 years.

Main characteristics of the Bonnell spring block

King size mattresses most often use Bonnell technology. Manufacturers also use them in “commercial grade” mattresses based on the belief that Bonnell springs are longer lasting than standard springs.

The Bonnell design consists of many hourglass-shaped coils, all connected together by rows of metal spirals (these are the long wire corkscrews that pass through the top of each spiral when they are inserted through the top of the block).

The entire block is then surrounded by frames at the top and bottom of the block (around the perimeter). Most XXL size Bonnell blocks contain approximately 360 threads, but of course they can be made with fewer or more depending on thread size and/or quality.

Features of fillers in mattresses with a dependent block

In such mattresses, vibration is weakly felt; the body does not fall down, but remains on the surface, although the muscles are relaxed enough for the body to rest. Even during long periods of sleep, the bed does not put much pressure on the skin and does not press marks on it.

The disadvantage of this design is that if one spiral breaks, you will have to go through all the insides to restore the elastic properties and distribute the elasticity of the mattress evenly over the entire surface.

The Bonnell spring block is becoming more popular every year.

Comparison with a block of independent springs

A more modern option for the internal filling of sofas and mattresses are blocks with independent springs. The difference is that the elements are not connected to each other, each of them is located in a separate case.

With this design, under load, only those springs that are affected are compressed, the rest remain in an unchanged position. In blocks of this type, springs of a smaller diameter are used, that is, there are more springs per square meter. This provides a greater degree of elasticity and density. There can be from 265 to 1000 springs per square meter. The best option is considered to be samples with 350-400 elements per square meter.

Tips for choosing a mattress

Pay attention to these factors:

The main difference between spring types is that instead of having a round top, the spring usually has a hexagonal shape, which allows the coils to pack closer together.
Manufacturers claim that this also allows the individual coils to fit more easily into the housing, but the fact that each coil is tied together makes the claim questionable.
The individual coils in the LFK unit do not have knots at the top of each spring like Bonnell coils, which also affects performance and comfort.

LFK coil units typically contain many more springs than traditional Bonnells, making them stronger.

However, this statement remains questionable because the frame itself can also wear out.

Properties of a spring mattress

Let's consider what is good about this or that spring option.

Advantages

Independent mattresses, unlike Bonnell ones, distribute each coil separately. This spring system design reduces movement when one person moves at one end, reducing interruptions during sleep.

This factor is especially relevant for consumers who are looking for a king-size bed or larger.

The spring systems also provide ample support throughout the body. However, individual pocket coils respond differently to different pressure points and body weight. Mattresses with this type of coil technology are softer than Bonnell.

Flaws

Springs can jump out of the mattress, get tangled, crack, move to one side, or lose tone. For prevention, you need to take the mattress for diagnostics and replacement once a year.

Another disadvantage is the weight. Such mattresses are much heavier than more advanced designs.

Bonnell dependent block properties

It springs over the entire surface; pressing on any of the elements causes the movement of each spring.
Not able to precisely adjust to the body; when loaded, it gets crushed by the hammock.
Requires a strong and thick pad under the mattress cover so that the metal is not felt by the body.
Inevitably it produces a squeak from the contacting metal elements of the structure.
Due to the large volume of air between the springs, it does not favor the growth of harmful organisms and resists metal corrosion for a long time.

Disadvantages of the Bonnell spring block:

does not provide orthopedic support;
transmits all movements of the partner;
creates a bias towards the heavier partner;
withstands a small load on the sleeping place.

Advantages of the Bonnell block:

cheapness;
durability;
excellent ventilation and hygiene;
does not require a special bed base.

The bonnel spring unit consists of connected springs.

What you need to know about the Bonnell block

A mattress on a Bonnell block is contraindicated for people with spinal diseases.
Extremely inconvenient for couples with a significant difference in weight.
Suitable for a single bed.
More comfortable for people of athletic build.
With a hard filling made from layers of coconut coir, it can be a good option for a child who needs a flat, elastic surface for sleeping while his spine is developing.

Bonnel mattress for a summer residence

For a double bed - a guest option, including in the country. Despite the low price, buying a mattress with a dependent spring block for constant sleep in the country is not always justified due to its lack of orthopedic properties. Working on the ground puts stress on the spine and a mattress on an independent spring block, unlike Bonnell, will help maintain its health.

Types of mattresses with spring blocks

There are quite a few different types of box springs used in mattresses. And they all have their pros and cons.

Generally considered the traditional option by most manufacturers and experts, the best type for comfort and fit. And is usually used in premium style and more expensive models.

All Sherman mattresses (the world's leading manufacturer) use this type of coil. The rest are just variations and modifications.

Spring mattress blocks: types

There are two groups of springs: tension and compression.
The latter type is used in mattress production. They are made from steel rods of various lengths and various profiles. In the production of mattresses, one of two types of spring blocks is used:

independent;
dependent.

Both one and the second have both their disadvantages and advantages. Experts advise that for quality sleep and maximum comfort, it is better to buy mattresses with an independent spring block. But unfortunately, they are not affordable for everyone.

What to choose: Bonnell block or independent springs

Each type has its pros and cons. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each helps you make informed, informed decisions about which is best.

It is important to note that the type of spring system is only one component. Other important factors such as coil thickness, number of coils, and even the type of foam used in conjunction with these spring systems can affect the overall strength.

Independent springs can be found in all old beds. Many generations have felt what it’s like to sleep on them.

Advantages of Bonnell spring mattresses

The main advantage of Bonnell is its light weight and ease of delivery/installation. These mattresses perfectly support your sleeping position and allow you to relax and unwind.

Another advantage will be the manufacturer’s warranty - more than 5 years. This means that during this time the mattress will not sag and will maintain its elastic properties.

Advantages of mattresses with independent springs

This includes time-tested reliability and low price. In order to get a sufficient level of comfort, you don’t have to invent anything. Everything has already been tested and approved many generations ago.

Features of the bonnell block

Bonnel spring block is a modification of the classic module. What are the similarities:

the springs are woven together in a certain order;
in upholstered furniture, the edges of the springs are attached to the frame (in modern mattresses the system is usually frameless).

What is the difference: bicone spirals are used in the manufacture of bonnels. The radius of their turn at the top and bottom is noticeably larger than in the center. This spring has an hourglass silhouette.

Characteristics of a high-quality bonnel block:

The diameter of the wire for springs is 2-2.5 mm.
Material: high carbon steel.
The number of turns is 4-5.
If there is a frame, the outer springs are attached to it using special locks with polyurethane plugs.
There are from 120 to 150 spiral elements per 1 square meter of block.

Tip The cost of the product depends on the number of springs per 1 square meter and the number of turns in each of them. But the quality of the sofa depends on this. Therefore, from two identical sofas in appearance and type of filling, choose the one that is more resilient and expensive.