Saatva Inc.
Saatva Technical Product Specification and Foundation Guide
Manufacturer Specification
Saatva Classic 11.5" vs 14.5" Height Differences
Construction breakdown: the exact 3-inch difference between Saatva 11.5" and 14.5" models, coil turns, and adjustable base compatibility.
Identical Feel; Lower Coil Height
Direct answer summary
The 11.5-inch and 14.5-inch Saatva Classic models have identical firmness ratings and identical top comfort layers (organic cotton Euro-pillow top, Lumbar Zone Active Wire, and 884 micro-pocket coils). The entire 3-inch difference resides solely in the lower Bonnell base coil unit: the 11.5-inch model uses 4-inch, 4-turn steel coils, whereas the 14.5-inch model uses 7-inch, 7-turn steel coils. The 11.5" is mandatory for adjustable bases.
Key points
Feel, firmness, and top comfort layers are 100% identical between 11.5" and 14.5".
The 3-inch height variance is exclusively in the base Bonnell coils (4-turn vs 7-turn).
Saatva strictly warrants only the 11.5" model for use on adjustable power bed frames.
Interactive example
Explore an example related to this answer.
3D Layer-Peel Visualizer
Interactive Visual Tool
Interactive Exploded Architecture & Layer Inspection
Peel through the physical mattress assembly to audit coil gauge, foam density (PCF), indentation load deflection (ILD), and flame barrier composition.
What's insideDrawing only, layer order not confirmed
Saatva 11.5 vs 14.5 Base Coil Unit layers
Height: 11.00"
Layers: 3 Layers
1/3
All
Active Layer: Euro Pillow Top
3" (QUILT)Thickness: 3"Material: Organic Cotton Quilted Foam
Layers, top to bottom (3)
Click to expand specsIdentical on both heights
Thickness3 inches27.3% of stack
MaterialOrganic Cotton Quilted Foam
884 pocket coils (Queen)
Thickness4 inches36.4% of stack
MaterialIndividually Wrapped Coils
Coil Wire Gauge14.5 AWGFirm support spring
4" (11.5" model) or 7" (14.5" model)
Thickness4 inches36.4% of stack
MaterialTempered Steel Bonnell Coils
Coil Wire Gauge13 AWGFirm support spring
Specifications
Recorded specifications
Values and benchmarks recorded for this question.
| Specification | Measured value | Benchmark | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Coil Height Difference | 11.5" uses 4" Coils; 14.5" uses 7" Coils | 3.0" Pure Base Steel Variance | pass |
| Base Coil Turn Count | 11.5": 4-Turn Coils; 14.5": 7-Turn Coils | Shorter Coil Compresses Stiffer | pass |
| Adjustable Base Compatibility | 11.5": 100% Approved; 14.5": Void / Not Recommended | Saatva Engineering Mandate | warning |
| Mattress Weight Comparison | 11.5": ~105 lbs; 14.5": ~120 lbs (Queen) | Heavy Hybrid Construction | pass |
Standards reference: Benchmarks derived from ASTM D3574 (flexible cellular foam), CPSC 16 CFR 1633 (open flame flammability), and clinical capillary closing thresholds (32.0 mmHg).
Checklist
Comparative Spec Verification Checklist
Step-by-step inspection to detect mid-production substitutions and compare component specs.
- 01
Check Bed Base Type
Order the 11.5" model if pairing with an adjustable power foundation or platform bed.
Watch for: The 14.5" model will bind and crush coils when bent on an adjustable base.
- 02
Measure Nightstand & Headboard Height
Calculate combined bed height (frame + mattress) to ensure easy sitting entry.
Watch for: A 14.5" mattress on a 9" box spring creates an awkward 32" bed height.
- 03
Verify Fitted Sheet Pocket Depth
Ensure sheets have at least 18" pockets if purchasing the 14.5" version.
Watch for: Standard 14" sheets will pop off the corners of the 14.5" Saatva Classic.
Sources
Sources for this answer
Read the source documents behind the thresholds, measurements, and policy details used here.
View source
ASTM International
Standard Specification for Bedding Foundations and Mattress Height
ASTM F1566