A pressure control layer (1) for use in a mattress or in a cushion for a seat. The layer (1) includes a plurality of interconnected fabric pockets (11) each enclosing at least one spring member (13). The fabric pockets (11) are made from elastic material. The pressure control layer (1) also has upper and lower fabric sheath portions (5,7), and each fabric pocket (11) has at least one elongate seam (9) formed between the upper and lower fabric sheath portions (5,7), these elongate seams (9) interconnecting and defining the periphery of the fabric pockets (11).