A full guide to memory foam mattresses
A memory foam mattress is a type of product designed to provide comfort and support. The material that this type of bedding is made of viscoelastic polyurethane developed by NASA for use in aircraft seats. Memory foam mattresses are made of a special plastic called viscoelastic polyurethane. This material provides unique properties: it can be brought into any shape when it is warm but returns to its original shape when it has cooled down again. In addition, it absorbs heat very well so that you don't feel hot when sleeping, even if you are sensitive or have problems with nightly overheating. In our foam mattress review, we will take a look at reviews for foam mattresses and find out which memory foam mattress is the best. So, let's take a more detailed look at products of this type.
The essence
Memory foam was first developed by NASA in the 1970s to improve the safety of aircraft cushions. It was not until the 1990s that its use was offered to the general public, especially for the best foam mattresses.
Composed mainly of polyurethane, the memory foam has the particularity of adapting to the morphology of the sleeper and always returns to its original shape. It relieves pressure points and increases sleeping comfort. This is a good option against back pain or if you suffer from chronic pain due to your bedding.
Nowadays, mattresses with memory foam top are very popular on the market. There are hundreds of foam bed mattresses, with very varied compositions and sensations depending on the manufacturer. Many brands combine several layers and types of foam or even different materials.
Types of products
Unlike other types of mattresses, mattresses memory are sensitive to the room's temperature. Due to its thermo-sensitive property, viscoelastic foam can harden when it's cold or soften when it's hot (we have already mentioned it). Similarly, an average beds foam mattress is less breathable because the viscoelastic foam makes it more difficult to ventilate other layers.
For this reason, some brands of memory foam mattress have developed new types of a king size foam mattress. These products combine several innovative technologies and materials to enjoy the advantages of memory foam while minimizing its disadvantages.
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Foam combination: it is a product that uses several different layers of foam. Generally, the top or middle layer is made of memory foam. It hugs the sleeper's body for an enveloping effect, a smooth cushioning of movements, and very good sleeping independence. This type of product is designed to please a majority of sleepers, thanks to the advantages of the combination.
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Spring hybrid: it is a top rated memory foam mattress that combines a pocket spring base with several layers of foam and/or latex. Most often, the upper or intermediate layer is made of memory foam (MF). Pocket spring mattresses are known for their above-average maintenance and sleeping independence. This feature allows couple sleepers to move without disturbing their partner. Thanks to the addition of a layer of shape MF, a more enveloping sensations are obtained. The pressure points are also reduced. Individually, these two materials are very different from each other. When combined, they create a new type of product that combines their advantages: the hybrid mattress.
For whom?
Such products are suitable for several types of sleepers, including:
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Those who sleep on the side will particularly appreciate this type of mattress. In this position, the MF allows the hips and shoulders to sink smoothly, thus keeping the spine well aligned.
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Those who have back pain or suffer from chronic pain. By adjusting to the body shapes, the viscoelastic foam (VF) removes the different pressure points.
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Couples also appreciate this type of mattress for its independence in sleeping. The MF welcomes the sleeper's weight without impacting the other areas of the product, allowing you to move during the night without disturbing your partner.
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Those who like soft products. Indeed, since VF is very flexible, this type of product is ideal for sleepers looking for a model with a soft or enveloping welcome.
Memory foam: sensations
Like most foam mattresses, an average memory foam mattress best is often composed of a high resilience foam base layer. This guarantees the support of the upper layers and the durability of the mattress. The intermediate or upper layer of memory foam varies depending on the mattress. Only one thing always remains the same: its viscoelasticity.
Viscoelastic foams have a unique feel, which is immediately recognizable. The more pressure is applied to the foam, the more it envelops the body's contours. It can be noticed after a few seconds (this duration may vary depending on the type of foam). The best foam memory mattress adapts to the body weight and adjusts its density.
For most sleepers, the most notable feature of memory foam is the way it wraps the body. The properties of the viscoelastic foam allow the body to sink into it. We are wrapped by such a product, with smooth movement cushioning. It works regardless of your sleeping position. The different pressure points are removed, and the back support is adequate.
Finally, be aware that all memory foams are made of polyurethane, but not all polyurethane foams are memory foam. It is the viscoelastic property that makes a foam have shape memory. Polyurethane foam without viscoelasticity is not considered a memory foam.
What types of memory foam mattresses are there, and what makes a good product?
There are three types of MF products.
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The first is the conventional option, in which there is a layer of MF on the top and one or two more layers underneath to support and make your body comfortable. This option is usually very thick (approx. 10 inches), so you get maximum pressure relief due to the softness of the MF and good back support from the layers underneath.
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The second type is an all-in-one solution in which there is no material other than a thin cover – which makes them much thinner than their counterparts but also less durable because they do not have so many layers that support them.
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Finally, there are also hybrid products in which latex is combined with one or more layers of MF. These products are usually quite firm, as both materials are very dense, but they still offer you enough cushioning.
There are many factors that make up a good memory foam mattress. Which memory foam mattress is best? The most important factor is the volumetric weight of the foam, which determines how much support you get when sleeping on the side or on your back. A higher density means more support and less sinking into the bed when you are lying down. Another important component is the ability to adapt to your body so that you do not feel that there are pressure points that cause discomfort, as is the case with other types of products such as spring core or latex beds. Finally, you have to consider whether you want a firm mattress or a softer one if you do not want to feel "constricted" by your bedding at night but still need a certain degree of comfort from an orthopedic point of view. These three components form what we call our 3-pillar rating system for memory foam mattress evaluations.
Types of viscoelastic foams
When we think of MF, it is often associated with a single material. However, this is far from the case. MF is a category of type of foam – polyurethane – with viscoelastic properties. There are many types of MF. Each manufacturer adds its personal touch when making it, which can change responsiveness, sensations, warmth, durability, etc.
MF can be composed of open cells, gel, or other technologies to improve performance. Do you like the feeling of a shape memory mattress but want a little more responsiveness? Open-cell foam is needed in your case. Below, you can see the most popular types of shape memory foam.
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Classic shape MF: this is what we imagine when we talk about memory foam. This one is less reactive and provides a more pronounced enveloping sensation. Traditional shape MF often has a higher density.
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Open cell foam: traditional MF uses closed cells during manufacturing. The product obtained is denser but less reactive, with the main consequence of retaining heat. Some sleepers then feel hot or feel stuck in the mattress. Open cell shape memory foam provides a feeling similar to traditional closed cell foam. During manufacture, small air pockets are injected, which makes it more responsive. Air also circulates better than in closed-cell foam.
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With cooling gel: a memory mattress with cooling gel regulates the temperature more efficiently. This is because the gel absorbs and evacuates heat from the mattress. This process also helps the body to eliminate heat while avoiding its retention better. That being said, it is not because a cooling gel is used that you will necessarily have a refreshing feeling. Similarly, the use of traditional foam does not necessarily provide warmth.
Anyone who wants to have better sleep can opt for such a product. MF products are suitable for people of all ages and body shapes, including children and the elderly. They are also ideal for people with back pain or other health problems that make it difficult for them to sleep comfortably at night.
How to use products properly
Such products have many advantages. However, there are also reciprocal duties of the owner to take care of his sleeping place:
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Once every six months (and, if possible, every three months), it is recommended to shift and turn the mattress, first change the position of the head and legs, and next time with the opposite side up (provided that the design is double-sided). This is necessary to avoid deformation.
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The substrate (base under the mattress) must be absolutely flat and sufficiently rigid. A "flexing" fiberboard bottom will not work. It is not recommended to use such a mattress on a spring, mesh bed.
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Polyurethane materials should not be cleaned at high temperatures, tumble dried, or wet washed. Only dry cleaning without the use of cleaning chemicals is allowed.
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We do not recommend letting such a product get too cold, storing it in a cold room or on a balcony in winter. It may take quite a long time to restore its properties and shape.
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Do not store in a bent, folded position for a long time; this may lead to long-term deformation.
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You should not use the material for sitting on it, for this, it is better to use a sofa or chair. Too much uniform pressure on one point can lead to the formation of a depression where you often sit, and this will lead to a deterioration in the orthopedic properties of the bed.
In general, if you use it wisely, do not deform it during storage, and do not expose it to temperature changes, it will serve as an excellent guarantee of comfortable sleep, a healthy spine, and neck, and give you extra vigor in the morning.
Selection criteria
You should buy a memory foam mattress according to your personal preferences. If you are looking for something firm, you should choose an item with a higher density, and if you want something soft, go for one with a lower density. Thickness is also important because it determines how much your body is supported during sleep. There are many things to look out for when we compare memory foam mattress. The price is one of the most important factors because, understandably, you don't want to pay more than you should. It also matters whether a reliable brand makes the mattress and whether it is durable enough for daily use. Also, make sure that the size of the product matches your bed frame so that there are no problems with sharing.
Pros and cons
Let's now take a look at the benefits and drawbacks.
Advantages
MF is a unique material that adapts to the shape of your body. It offers support and comfort for excellent sleep while reducing pressure points on the body. This makes it perfect for anyone suffering from back pain or other sleep disorders such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or sciatica. The material also helps you align your spine properly during the night so that you wake up refreshed and are ready to start the day.
Disadvantages
Such products are not suitable for everyone. Some people find them too hot to sleep, and others complain that they get stuck in the mattress when they move a lot during sleep. In addition, they are usually heavier than other types of mattresses, which makes it difficult for older or disabled people to change their sleeping position without the help of another person.
Purchase advice
We are here to help you make the right choice. So, what is the best memory foam mattress? Here are our recommendations on choosing the right option.
Which brands are good?
Products from various manufacturers and suppliers are worth your attention. The list includes, among other things, products from the following brands and manufacturers:
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Alfabed.
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Trois Couronnes.
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Harrison Spinks.
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Linen Spa.
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Nectar Sleep.
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Siena.
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RECCI.
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Sweetnight.
The cheapest Memory Foam mattress product costs around 50 euros and is ideal for customers who like to control their wallets. However, if you are willing to spend more money on better quality, there are plenty of luxurious products on the market as well.
Top best options
MF mattress products we offer stand out with a particularly large number of reviews.
Let's now take a look at some of the other best options we have selected.
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Alfabed Stella. The manufacturer offers one of the best solutions on the market for reasonable money. The product is comfortable and supportive: plenty of positive reviews show it vividly. 15-year warranty is provided.
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Trois Couronnes Duke. This option won't hug you too densely. It is a perfect option for those who prefer to sleep on the back or stomach. There are two sides of different rigidity, which is really convenient.
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Alfabed Atmosfera. This one is a premium, hotel-quality mattress from a well-known brand. If you are looking for something more traditional, it is exactly what you need. The product is hypoallergenic.
If you are looking for products of the highest quality from reliable manufacturers, you are just in the right place: browse our catalog and make your choice.