Microcoil/ latex order?

This is largely a hypothetical question at this point, but I’m curious. Let’s say you have base springs (or a very simple mattress), a latex topper, and a microcoil topper with a bit of foam (Saatva style, the 3.75" that they and their brandmates offer).

Is there one “correct” order for them, if using both? I’d assume if so it would be latex on top of the microcoils. However, is that always the case; would you sometimes do the microcoils on top of the latex? Do they produce different feels?

And am I correct in assuming that if the microcoil layer were coils only (a la TPS) it would always go beneath the latex?

Likely the guest bed to be used in two months will be done somewhat like this, so I suppose it’s not entirely hypothetical but also not something I can just try by myself right now.

When layering different components like base springs, latex topper, and microcoil topper in a mattress, the order can affect the overall feel and performance of the bed.

When we look at each component’s function, it may help you understand what the affect might be as you construct your mattress.

Your bases springs provide foundational support. They typically go at the bottom as they form the core support structure of the mattress.

The microcoil topper will add a layer of additional support and responsiveness due to its smaller coils. It can go either above or below the latex topper, depending on the desired feel, for example.

If you are placing microcoils on top of latex, they can provide a slightly more responsive feel, as the coils respond quickly to pressure and movement.

When you place the microcoils beneath the latex it may provide a slightly softer feel with a bit more contouring, as the latex will conform to the body while still benefiting from the support of the microcoils.

The latex is known for its buoyancy, comfort, and pressure relief. It generally works well as a top layer because it contours to the body, provides comfort, and enhances the overall feel of the mattress.

A quick pause, are you asking if the micro coil layer is not a topper and simply a microcoil independent layer? Most microcoil toppers have added, wool, latex or cotton in addition to the microcoils. So we dont want to conflate the two.

An independent micro coil layer is often used to replace a foam (usually memory foam) counterpart, to increase air flow, reduce heat retention, and provide more targeted support to different parts of the body, such as hips and shoulders. They can also improve spinal alignment, for a more comfortable nights sleep. Micro coils can also improve the durability of a mattress.

Placing microcoils above or below the latex can indeed produce different feels. Above the latex, you may feel more responsiveness and bounce. Below the latex, you might experience a softer, more contouring sensation.

If the microcoil layer were coils only (without additional foam), it would typically go beneath the latex. This is because coils alone would lack the conforming comfort that latex provides and might feel too firm or uneven directly under the body.

Given your setup of base springs, a latex topper, and a microcoil topper with foam:
The most common and likely optimal configuration would be base springs at the bottom, followed by the microcoil topper with foam, and then the latex topper on top. This setup balances support, responsiveness, and comfort.

As you well know, mattress comfort is highly subjective. If you have the ability to adjust or test the layers before finalizing, you could experience the differences for yourself.

I would say, there isn’t necessarily one “correct” order, the setup of base springs at the bottom, followed by the microcoil topper with foam, and then the latex topper on top is a commonly effective configuration.

Hopefully, this clears things up and doesnt confuse things even more.

Maverick

Oh yes that helps, thank you! I will try both ways of course, but was curious what the thoughts were.

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Of course, for the cushier plushier feel, latex on top. Let your back, hip and shoulders lead the way!

The Saatva microcoil topper arrived early, on Saturday. Honestly, I was not terribly impressed with it - it felt “floppy” and not in a good cushy way, just insubstantial. First test was to just slap it on top of the latex. It was… plush, but bouncy and weak. And while I slept in decently, I woke up twice with a numb arm.

Then Sunday is when I change the sheets, so I took the time to put the microcoil under the latex. That was better! Slept in more than usual and no numbness. I’m not sure it adds a ton compared to the junk mattress plus the latex, but it’s little something different. Glad I tried it and can feel good that the coming mattress has a ton of it (though I may also try putting a TPS microcoil layer in for the first latex layer).