Bed weight limits in South Africa explained. The weight limit or mattress weight rating recommends what weight the mattress can carry per sleeper. A few general weight limits are applied to beds and mattresses in South Africa. They start at 60-70 kg for the entry-level beds and can go up to 140-150 kg. Some manufacturers that make beds specifically for heavier individuals can have limits of up to 200 kg per person. These are based on the per person or individual sleeper weight. In other words, we only look at the weight of the heaviest individual and not a combination of the sleeper’s weights.
How do bed weight ratings work?
In brief, weight ratings are pretty simple to figure out. They are meant to be a guide for the bed buyer so that the intended maximum weight is not exceeded. This is important because certain beds and mattresses are made with a specific use, budget or quality standard in mind.
For example, our reliable foam mattress is made to be budget-friendly, for spare rooms or children. Because of its uses, the mattress only has a 70 kg weight rating. For mattresses that are designed for adults and every night use in any room, the weight ratings will go up to the regions of 120 – 140 kg per person. please also remember that if the weight ratings of the bed are exceeded the warranty of the bed will be void.
How are the mattress weight limits determined?
There are several different mattress types and each type has its way of determining the weight limits of beds. Because of their different internal structures, mattresses are rated differently.
Spring mattress weight ratings
Innerspring mattresses, or Bonnell spring mattresses carry a very wide range of weight ratings. This is determined by several factors.
- Wire gauge: Thicker gauge wire in the springs translates to higher weight capacity.
- Number of coils: More coils distribute weight more evenly, potentially increasing the limit.
- Coil count density: Higher density (coils per square inch) often indicates better support for heavier individuals.
- Comfort layers: Additional materials like foam and padding can affect weight distribution and impact the effective limit.
- Mattress construction: Frameworks, foundations, and edge support all play a role in overall strength and bed weight limits.
Foam mattress bed weight limits
Because there are no spaces to insert support structures into a foam mattress, the way the weight limit if determined is very different to the spring options. The weight rating of a foam mattress is determined by the hardness and firmness characteristics of the foam layers.
Here’s a breakdown of how mattress firmness and weight capacity are related to polyurethane foam density:
- Low-density foam: Soft and conforming, suitable for lighter sleepers or those who prefer a plush feel. May not provide enough support for heavier individuals.
- Medium-density foam: Offers a balance of comfort and support, suitable for most sleepers. Can support average-weight individuals comfortably
- High-density foam: Firmer and more supportive, ideal for heavier individuals, back sleepers, and those who need pressure relief
Ultimately, the best way to determine if a mattress is suitable for you is to try it out in person. Lie down on it in your usual sleeping position and see how it feels. Pay attention to whether your spine is properly aligned and whether there are any pressure points. You can also ask the salesperson about the mattress’s density and firmness rating to get a better idea of how it might perform and how the bed weight limits of the bed will influence your choice.