09/20/2018 Category: Assortment
- 1 Bonnell spring block - main characteristics
- 2 Properties of a spring mattress 2.1 Advantages
- 2.2 Disadvantages
Bonnell type mattresses are classics of the mattress genre. The invention goes back to the distant 19th century. It is noteworthy that the idea was based on the springs of the seats of carts that were traveling along the cobblestone streets of Western Europe at that time. At that time, this type of mattress gained great popularity. So what then, this invention is still in stable demand - mostly due to its low cost. If you are faced with the question of purchasing a mattress, should you consider the Bonnell mattress, the design of which has remained virtually unchanged for over 100 years? What should you know about it? It is not recommended for anyone to sleep on it, and for those it is even contraindicated.
Bonnell spring block - what is it?
Bonnell is a dependent spring unit, widely used in the manufacture of mattresses. On the one hand, this is a conventional design that has existed for decades and is well known to customers; on the other, there is an unusual connection of spirals that eliminates the characteristic creaking. Simple production technology has made Bonnell one of the most popular spring blocks for mattresses.
The Bonnell spring block has nothing in common with conventional spring designs. Its production technology completely eliminates the rapid deterioration typical of older mattress models.
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.
Production technology
Despite the similarities, the Bonnell block is very different from traditional designs, well known for their terrible squeaking and the unique ability of the springs to sag or, conversely, bulge, creating uncomfortable sleeping conditions.
For Bonnell blocks, four- or five-turn bicone steel springs are used, which are connected to each other with wire. The latter is secured through special locking devices located at the ends of the spirals. The simple technology does not allow the springs to bulge or sag. At the same time, they do not creak when squeezed.
Customer Reviews
There was an old sofa in the rented apartment. After 8 hours in the office, my lower back made itself felt in the evening; by morning the discomfort did not always disappear. I moved into my own apartment and bought a normal bed with a Bonnell mattress. Now my lower back doesn't bother me.
Maxim F.
Before pregnancy I could sleep anywhere! A tourist mat with a sleeping bag on hikes, benches in the waiting rooms of train stations, on the bare floor. But when I became pregnant, I couldn’t even sleep on the sofa - my back hurt so much. I had to buy a bed with a mattress. To save money, we took the bonnel. We made no mistake.
Julia K.
Several years ago, when choosing a mattress, we tossed between dependent and independent springs.
Chosen by addicts because of the price. A month ago we bought a new mattress with independent springs. I only feel the difference when my husband tosses and turns before going to bed. Olesya I.
Main characteristics of the Bonnel spring block
The Bonnel spring block is distinguished from conventional spring structures by the special, bicone shape of the spirals. They taper towards the center and widen towards the edges, that is, they have a narrowed waist. Thanks to its unusual shape, the spring system evenly distributes the load, which makes it partly similar to independent units, but an order of magnitude cheaper.
Another difference between Bonnell blocks and conventional models is the non-contact connection of the spirals, which completely eliminates the metallic rattle that accompanies sleeping on a regular mattress.
Properties of a spring mattress
Before you go on a budget purchase, you should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of this type of mattress. First, we list the main advantages.
Advantages
Reasonable price . Due to the low cost of production, Bonnell mattresses are the most affordable for consumers. The low cost made these products widespread. They can often be purchased in furniture stores even in small towns.
Durability . The mattress can be used for up to 15 years (if you do not exceed the maximum permissible load on the product, do not stand or jump on it).
Excellent ventilation . Thanks to the almost hollow base, the mattress is perfectly ventilated, does not accumulate moisture and dries quickly.
Models on a frame have a built-in base, and therefore can be installed on any base (homemade, not entirely level, even on the floor).
Flaws
At the same time, mattresses of this type have a number of disadvantages. Some of them are quite significant and may influence the buyer's final decision.
Failure of springs . The design technology is such that all the springs in the block are in a compressed position. If the fastening, which is also called a “lock,” breaks, the spring “shoots”—it is released and becomes noticeable. If the solution to the problem is delayed, the spring breaks through the insulating layer and upholstery of the mattress. Broken springs and cracked metal frames are also common problems with Bonnell mattresses.
Lack of orthopedic support . Due to the fact that all the springs are interconnected, the impact on any area of the mattress sets the entire product in motion. The spring block is not able to adapt to the anatomical features of a person. The only thing he is capable of is turning into a “hammock” under the sleeping body. Not recommended for regular use, especially for people with spinal problems. An additional problem with double mattresses is that any body movement of one sleeper is transmitted by a “wave” effect to the other. This factor should be taken into account especially for those who have sleep problems.
Sound effects . The block, under the influence of it, produces a characteristic crunch created by the “working” metal elements. Regular use for 3-4 years leads to increased rustling (due to loosening of the springs). Over time, the set of sounds produced can expand - a creaking is added to the crunch, rustling or rustling.
Inability to withstand heavy loads . For people who weigh heavily (more than 95 kg), a Bonnell-type mattress will be especially uncomfortable (the hammock effect is especially pronounced). The wear of springs in a mattress that regularly works “at the limit” of its capabilities occurs faster. Lumps, dips appear, and spring elements burst.
Advice! If the budget is very limited, a temporary solution may be to purchase a Bonnell mattress reinforced with PPU blocks (between the rows of bonded springs).
Inability to distribute loads evenly . If one partner weighs significantly more than the other, this may create a bias towards the heavier one. Then the lighter one will not be able to stay on its half and will constantly roll onto the opposite half of the sleeping surface.
Tendency to deformation . Over time, the mattress block is pressed in one or more places (due to weakening of the springs due to unevenly applied load). To minimize deformation, the product should be turned over at least once every six months.
Repairing a block of dependent springs is a complex issue. Finding a master who would agree to do this is not easy. Life hacks for repairing broken Bonnell block springs presented on the Internet are, to say the least, questionable. None of the craftsmen (even the old-school ones) recommend “repairing” broken springs, but replacing them with new ones. But finding a new spring of this type on sale is almost impossible. This is explained by the fact that the block of dependent springs is manufactured on special equipment in an automatic way and is not intended for repair (disposable).
Advantages and disadvantages of mattresses with Bonnell block
Mattresses based on Bonnell spring blocks, like any sleep product, have their advantages and disadvantages. It remains to find out what is more important and make the right choice.
pros
- ability to ventilate - the structure, empty inside, promotes excellent air exchange, which is good for health (absence of harmful microorganisms, good thermoregulation);
- reliability - the use of thick steel wire allows you to create elastic springs that do not collapse during operation, which is also useful for the correct position of the spine during sleep;
- durability of mattresses on Bonnell blocks, since the springs are made of durable elastic steel;
- affordable price is the main advantage of Bonnel spring mattresses, which makes them attractive to buyers.
Minuses
- low orthopedic characteristics - despite the non-contact connection of the spirals, people with different weights will feel uncomfortable on such a surface (if the weight is high, it is better to refuse such a mattress);
- When connections and locks wear out, a creaking sound may appear or the springs may begin to bulge.
It should be noted that the last drawback occurs if the manufacturer skimped on high-quality wire for springs. Well-known companies that care about their reputation do not make such mistakes.
More details about the pros and cons in the video:
Summing up
So, Bonnell mattresses - what are they? An invention for the ages or a relic of the past? Today, Bonnell-type mattresses, as before, are in demand and purchased. Such popularity is a consequence of the low price combined with sufficient durability.
Quite often, mattresses with a dependent block can be found in inexpensive hotels, hostels, and recreation centers. This product can be an ideal solution for a country house or cottage.
Nevertheless, the low orthopedic characteristics of the Bonnell type block are a good reason to refuse to purchase this model for regular use, especially for people with diseases of the musculoskeletal system and those who are heavy.
A more suitable option (moderately expensive, but more “orthopedic”) is a model with an independent spring block.
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.
Features of a block with independent springs
The springs are placed in insulated fabric covers that are glued together. When one spring is compressed, the others remain motionless. Their diameter is small, so the number of pieces per square meter reaches 1000 units. Excessive density leads to bending of the springs on the sides and worsens the anatomical properties of the product. The spirals touch and become deformed. Therefore, the best option is up to 350 pieces per square meter.
The model supports the spine, takes the shape of the human body, and relaxes the spinal muscles.
Spring system MULTIPOCKET
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The basis of this system is that individual textile pockets are tied together in the middle. A spring mattress with this design is the most durable, since there is no connection between the springs, which means that if one is damaged, the neighboring ones do not sag. The minimum number of springs in this product is 435 pieces.
The supporting effect of MULTIPOCKET is ensured by the fact that the weight of the body is distributed over many points, which means that a weight reduction effect is created. All this ensures maximum relaxation of the human body, and also, due to increased comfort during sleep, has a beneficial effect on his health. The disadvantages of this product include its high price.
Expensive but worthwhile multipocket mattress
pros
What are the advantages of mattresses with Bonnell block:
- Reasonable price - production is cheap, so you can buy the accessory itself without damaging your own budget. This is another factor contributing to the proliferation of these products.
- Term of use.
- Reliability. The block is made of thick wire, so it can withstand significant loads. This property lasts for a long time. Bonnell mattresses are recommended for use by people weighing more than 100 kilograms.
- Good air conductivity. Ventilation is provided by the hollow base of the mattress. For the same reason, moisture quickly evaporates from it.
Peculiarities
Conventional spring blocks invariably sag over time. The springs lose their strength, the mattress cover breaks through. The Bonnell device is more stable, which means that the buyer will be able to use the purchased product for a very long time.
The design of the devices allows the internal elements to be connected as tightly as possible. Due to this, the product becomes stronger.
Bicone springs with special type of coils make it possible to distribute the load so as not to harm the sleeping person, maintain correct posture, and also preserve the original properties of the accessory.
How firmly the connections are formed prevents the accessory from swinging.
In today's production, the Bonnell block in mattresses is supplemented with high quality soft filler:
- Wool.
- Cotton wool.
- Felt.
- Spunbond.
- Sintepon.
- Coir.
