Which Sofa Is Better: With Spring or Without Spring?

Written by: Zoona Sikander, Interior Design Writer & Social Media Content Creator
Edited by: Emma Cyrus, Senior Copy, Content & Editorial Writer
Reviewed by: Rey Amini, Senior Interior Designer & Architect
Fact-checked by: Benjamin Ibanez, Development & FF&E Manager

You may not have given it much thought, but when it comes to investing in luxury furnishings, there are a few technical aspects that should be considered. And, if you’re exploring different types of seating solutions, you’ll probably be debating whether it’s better to get a sofa with or without springs.

A luxury sofa should last you for decades and will be part of many great conversations, dinner parties and cosy evenings after a long day at work. But shopping for exactly the right one can certainly be overwhelming. 

Choosing an excellent internal support system will have an enormous impact on how much you enjoy your final purchase. But how do you decide what’s right for you? It all starts with knowing your needs and then matching them with the available options in terms of personal taste, lifestyle and budget. 

In this guide we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of each choice, focusing on comfort, durability and upkeep. So sit back and relax as our design experts give you their insights, leaving you to make the final decision.

What are sofa springs?

The optimal support, it's likely that some of the comfiest sofas you’ve sat on had springs in their frame. Carefully positioned beneath the cushions to create a strong base and improve overall enjoyment, they absorb and disperse the weight of anyone who sits on them. 

Springs also allow for regulated flexibility, respond to body movement and reduce pain and fatigue during continuous use. They are grouped into two broad categories: 

Coil or pocket springs:

Used in the production of classic, luxury sofas, these are cylindrical springs that are individually wrapped in a fabric pocket, acting independently to provide focused support. They are well known for their long-lasting resilience and ability to adjust to different body shapes, providing improved comfort and lowering the danger of sagging over time. 

Sinuous Springs: 

These are pre-assembled to form a continuous S-shaped pattern and are also known as zigzag or serpentine springs. They give continuous support down the length of the sofa and are widely employed in modern furniture design because they are cheap and easy to produce. 

The best sofas are those that have been designed with a zoning system, where the firmness of the springs is varied to match the support needed at different parts of the sofa.

How sofa springs promote comfort and support

The presence of springs allows sofa cushions to retain their shape and height, optimises comfort and prevents them from sagging. Here are some other advantages:

• Pressure relief: Sofa springs relieve pressure points in the body, improving blood circulation and lowering discomfort. This makes them a perfect choice for people with back or joint problems.
• Enhanced resilience: The inherent elasticity of springs allows the sofa to bounce back to its original form after use, keeping it looking new and extending its lifespan.
• Personalised comfort: Depending on the type and arrangement of the springs, each sofa will offer various amounts of support ranging from firm to soft. This allows you to choose one that caters to your specific needs. 

The drawbacks of sofas with springs

Like with all good things, there are likely to be a few negatives. Here they are:

• Noise: Sofa springs can creak or squeak over time, especially if they are of poor quality or are not properly maintained. These sounds can be annoying, destroying the tranquility of your space and affecting your overall comfort and experience.
• Maintenance: Springs do require maintenance to keep them in good shape which may entail adjusting loose elements or dealing with faults in the support system.
• Cost: Sofas with high-quality springs are typically more expensive than their foam counterparts due to their complex manufacturing process. However, this is offset by the overall satisfaction and longevity that the end product offers. 
• Firmness: With a spring sofa, the areas of support are predetermined, which may not cater to your specific needs. So if you lean towards a more rigid seating experience, they could be a bit soft for you. 
• Weight restrictions: Springs are designed to support a specific amount of weight and are prone to sagging if exceeded. In addition, if you have small children who are allowed to bounce on your sofa regularly, the chances that this will happen prematurely are pretty high. 

 

Sofas without springs

Originally foam sofas were manufactured with a single piece of foam that was wrapped in a cushion cover. But today foam-based support systems and webbing solutions are gaining popularity as innovative new solutions are explored.

The latest options provide a new take on comfort and durability, making high-quality foam sofas easier to maintain and less likely to lose their form over time.  

It’s important to note that foam comes in different levels of firmness. We recommend that, for a premium experience, you should aim for a density level of 2.0 or higher.

Here’s why you should consider these alternatives:

Foam-based support: 

The days of springs being synonymous with sofa support are long gone. High-quality foam has evolved as a formidable alternative, engineered for continuous support and shaping. 

These materials, ranging from memory- to high-resilience foam, adapt to your body's structure, boosting ergonomic comfort, minimising pressure areas and making them personalised and cosy. 

Webbing support: 

Traditional spring systems have now been officially challenged by strategically interwoven webbing or straps that offer an optimal support structure. This technique provides a more even weight distribution and lowers the probability of sagging over time. 

Webbing solutions harmonise comfort and support by embracing tension and flexibility, resulting in a balanced seated experience.

Both of the above systems have challenged the status quo in modern sofa design in different ways:

• The resilience of foam guarantees that your sofa retains its shape even after numerous lounging sessions. 
• The taut nature of webbing effectively resists the wear and tear that plagues spring-based sofas. 

As a result, this type of furniture will now remain welcoming and supportive for many years to come.

The pros of sofas without springs

Sofas without springs have ushered in a new era of relaxation, providing a slew of compelling advantages that have reshaped the way we perceive comfort. Here's why they’re gaining popularity:

• Noiseless operation: Say goodbye to the creaks and squeaks that are common with regular spring sofas and embrace a more tranquil sitting experience devoid of any sound. 
• Low maintenance: Foam or webbed sofas need minimal care. With no worries about springs breaking, twisting, or poking through cushions, they can retain their integrity over time, eliminating the need for frequent maintenance.
• Affordability: Non-spring sofas are surprisingly affordable due to their simple, inexpensive manufacturing protocols. This makes them an economical option without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics. 

The cons of springless sofas

While sofas without springs definitely provide a new approach to comfort, it’s important to weigh up their disadvantages before making a final decision:  

• Sagging: One of the main issues with non-spring sofas is that they sag over time. While high-quality foam and webbing support systems are built to withstand this, prolonged use will eventually succumb to compression. So make sure that you invest in the best materials possible to reduce the risk of this happening too quickly. 
• Less Bounce: Non-spring choices definitely lack the distinct bounce of classic sofas because they don’t have the same resilient responsiveness. This has an effect on the overall sitting or lounging experience, especially for people who enjoy a little give.
• Reduced comfort: While they have made big strides in delivering comfort, they still cannot be compared to the perfection of their spring-based counterparts. So if you love that sink-in feeling, you may need to reconsider your options. 

Pricing considerations 

Foam or webbed sofas

When it comes to foam sofas, the cost will largely depend on the type of foam used. The least expensive ones will be made from a cheap material that will sag after a short period.

High-density foam, on the other hand, will last up to 12 years even under heavy usage. You can expect to pay twice as much for these designs as you would for sub-quality versions.

Spring-based sofas

In terms of spring sofas, those with pocket coils will cost more than the ones with serpentine springs. And, while you can find well-priced pocket spring offerings, it’s important to note that the more expensive the furniture piece, the better the spring system.

Generally, pocket coils last far longer than their sinuous alternatives, which could need replacing in as little as five years.

Weighing up the pros and cons

Both types of luxury sofas come with their pros and cons, so at the end of the day it boils down to which one is right for you. Let’s weigh up the options at a glance: 

Type of sofa	Positives	Negatives
Non-Spring Sofas	They take on your shape as you sit, personalising your space. They provide excellent support if you need to alleviate joint pain. They have a cosy, enveloping feel. They isolate motion, so if your kids are wriggling around next to you, you won’t feel it.	They will sag over time and may need replacing. Cold temperatures make them uncomfortable and rigid. High-density foam can be expensive. They become hot and claggy in the heat of summer.
Spring Sofas	They accommodate a wide range of budgets. Personalised zoning allows for exceptional support for aches and pains. They are springy and bouncy which provides optimal comfort. They are durable and resilient, keeping their shape for many years.	Cheaper versions may lack sufficient back support, leading to bad posture. They can become noisy over time, so require regular maintenance. They have a weight limit. They are more expensive than their foam counterparts.

 

4 Luxury sofas you’ll love

There’s no substitute for trying out a new sofa in person, especially if comfort is of importance to you (which it should be). But if you’re pressed for time and can’t make it in-store, here are 4 luxury options our experts think you’ll love: 

The Loop

If you’re looking for something fun and fresh, then you should consider the Loop sofa by Sancal. Focused on creating a joyful aesthetic, this contemporary foam offering can be customised in four distinct versions, each allowing for up to three colour choices. Get it and your kids will love you forever!

The Limousine 

Everybody loves a classic and, if it’s refinement that you’re after, the Limousine collection by Gamma & Dandy takes the cake. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship and traditional manufacturing methodologies, this product offers the best of everything in terms of sprung-seating comfort and beautiful aesthetics. 

The Iseo

Foam reigns supreme when it comes to the Iseo modular sofa set by Naustro Italia. Part of their Fiera Collection, it comprises a variety of units that includes a chaise longue, corner piece and ottoman, bringing exceptional versatility to the modern home. With its undulating seats and fun upholstery options, comfort and style are at a premium.

The Straight Palais Royal

For those who adore old-world charm, the Straight Palais Royal sofa by Silvano Luxury will tickle you pink. Its distinctive camelback profile, plush cushioning and opulent arms will give you that sink-in feeling synonymous with the best in spring-based support. With its contrasting trim and beautifully designed feet, your living space is guaranteed to radiate glamour. If this is your dream piece, take a look at our article on styling camelback sofas like a pro. 

Shop luxury sofas at FCI London

If you’ve weighed up your options and are set on a luxury sofa that will fill your needs, then it’s time to hit the shops. And we reckon we have the best offerings in town. 

From contemporary foam to classic springs, you’ll be able to find a style, comfort level and price range made just for you. And the best part? You can customise our sofas to the size, colour and material that best suits your home.

To find out more, get in touch today or pop into our spectacular showroom and have a chat with our expert design team.