We know how challenging the search for a new mattress can be. This piece of furniture affects how comfortable you sleep and how comfortable you feel when awake. We know it is crucial to find the right one.
In your search process, you probably have come across the possibility of a memory foam mattress. A memory foam mattress is a unique bed that forms to your body to distribute body weight, providing pressure relief for a comfortable night’s sleep. Many people who use memory foam beds say that this type of mattress helped prevent back pain and uncomfortable tossing and turning.
Although this is a basic explanation of memory foam mattresses, we understand that there is more to know about them while searching for your next bed. Plus, it would help if you investigated the various brands that offer memory foam.
We find that mattress companies like Purple and Nectar have received numerous positive customer reviews. Casper and Loom & Leaf also provide comfortable options for memory foam.
Follow this guide to see if a memory foam mattress is the right fit for you and your body.
Structure of a Memory Foam Mattress
The entire construction of a memory foam mattress contains the polymer called polyurethane. A polymer is a substance made of large molecules bonded together by the smaller molecules within to form a stable mattress structure.
Memory foam is more formally identified as viscoelastic polyurethane foam, which is also called low-resistance polyurethane foam (LRPu). The “Visco” part of the name refers to memory foam’s viscosity. Essentially, this means that it takes time for the polyurethane to conform to a new shape when under pressure. The “elastic” means that the mattress can return to its original state after removing pressure.
The consolidation of chemicals allows for the memory foam to conform to your body and then return to its original flat state when you get up. The memory foam acts as a comfort layer that reacts to the pressure from your body. The faster you apply pressure, the slower the memory foam responds and molds. Light pressure instigates a quicker response from the mattress.
Each mattress brand has its own way of constructing its memory foam. However, all of them have a similar setup. At the bottom is the core, which contains high-density foam. It provides a firm base for the two components that rest on top.
In the middle is the transition layer, which possesses multiple layers of foam that wick away the heat from the top layer. Finally, the comfort layer sits on top and gives you optimal comfort and support.
There are three main types of memory foam mattresses: the traditional, open-cell, and gel. The traditional memory foam is what you would initially think of about memory foam. It has molding technology that supports your body. Open-cell memory foam is almost identical to the traditional; however, it has open pockets within the interior of the mattress that allows ventilation- prompting a cooler night’s sleep. Gel memory foam contains gel beads within the memory foam. The beads can absorb and release heat, depending on your body’s temperature.
The Pros of a Memory Foam Mattress
As with any mattress, there are pros and cons. These can affect your mattress decision, so it is important to weigh both the good and the bad aspects before buying.
The first pro of a memory foam mattress is that it molds to your body and prevents uncomfortable or painful mornings. The conforming technology identifies your body’s pressure points and composes itself to distribute weight evenly. That way, you do not wake up in the morning with aches and pains in areas like your back, hips, neck, and shoulders.
Memory foam mattresses are hypoallergenic. Due to their high density, they rarely attract allergens like dust mites and mold.
If you sleep with someone else, the molding technology works where pressure is applied. This means that if your partner moves, you do not feel it on your side. Additionally, since there are no springs or other noisy materials inside, memory foam mattresses tend to be quiet.
The Cons of a Memory Foam Mattress
One of the most significant troubles of memory foam is its heat retention. Since these mattresses are high in density, they absorb your body’s heat and keep it. However, gel and open cell memory foam attempt to wick away this uncomfortable heat, but many users still say they can feel the retention to some degree.
Memory foam’s high density also means that it is hard to move. On average, they are one of the heaviest mattresses on the market.
Finally, water also affects the memory foam’s quality. These types of mattresses are not waterproof, so contact with moisture can shorten their lifespans.
Who Would Enjoy a Memory Foam Mattress?
Memory foam mattresses are excellent for those who tend to wake up with uncomfortable aches and back pains. Memory foam can give you an evenly distributed pressure throughout your body. However, if you are a hot sleeper, you should probably stay away from this mattress.
How to Find the Right Memory Foam Mattress for You
There are many things to acknowledge when searching for the right mattress. You need to know about the density, firmness level, and maybe you want to see some comparisons of mattress brands. Our website has all you need to help you with your mattress search. We provide reviews of all main mattress brands and specific reviews for different types of mattresses for different needs – from spring mattresses to hybrid mattresses, to best mattresses for side sleepers or back sleepers.
Other Mattress Options
If memory foam is not right for you, do not stress. The perfect mattress that relieves painful aches is out there.
Consider an innerspring mattress! This bed contains various springs inside and has a padded or foam top.
You can also try a hybrid mattress. This usually combines elements of innerspring, memory foam, and gel mattresses.
Latex mattresses are also an option. Made of natural latex, these mattresses have a similar shaping element to memory foam.
Buying a mattress has never been easier. You can go to the store or buy a mattress online. No matter what you do, find what makes you sleep comfortably.
