We’ve all seen the television commercial where the couple rest a glass of red white on a stark white memory foam mattress and leave it alone as a woman jumps up and down on the bed. Amazingly, the glass remains stable and un-spilled.
Too good to be true, right? Well, I won’t be rushing out to try it on my mattress, but it is true that memory foam bedding has the uncanny ability to reduce motion transfer.
What that means is memory foam can reduce the impact of a restless sleeper on a partner lying on the other side of the bed. The unique design and composition of memory foam allows it to absorb movement so it does not spread in a ripple effect that in turn bounces or at least disturbs the second user.
The open cell structure of memory foam allows this to happen and is one of the key elements behind the product’s immense and growing popularity. Memory foam is a visco-elastic substance that is derived from a polyurethane or plant-based mix depending whether the mattress is of a standard or eco-friendly variety. The visco-elastic material is capable of supporting body weight without the use of metal frames or springs that are common to traditional mattresses. Memory foam supports body weight with millions of tiny open cells that are suspended in the memory foam and collapse under pressure. As a result, body weight is distributed evenly across the bedding surface and does not allow for motion transfer.
This memory foam quality is especially beneficial for couples where one partner gets up frequently during the night or that has one of several medical conditions that result in tossing and turning. This type of activity can cause significant lifestyle detriments has the affected partner losses sleep.
So, all this means that in addition to its much heralded ability to reduce pain and soreness caused by pressure points, and improve circulation, memory foam mattresses are also something of a marriage saver. Because we all know how vital it is to get a good night’s sleep.
Memory Foam Mattresses Reduce Motion Transfer
Solutions For Cooling A Memory Foam Mattress
Fortunately, as memory foam technology has advanced the bedding industry has been able to address some of the heat build-up issues that were cited as downsides when the product was first introduced in the 1990s. New memory foam formulas have greatly reduced the build of heat and reduced the issue to a minor inconvenience for some and non-existent for most.
But if you do have a memory foam mattress and feel the need to further cool the sleep system in order to get a comfortable sleep, then there are several easy ways to go about it.
First, it is important to understand why memory foam mattresses sometimes “sleep warm.” Memory foam is a visco-elastic mass of millions of tiny open cells. Memory foam is generally quite dense which adds to the retention of heat. Additionally, the same quality that everyone raves about – the “melting” feeling that is triggered by body warmth – is the same one that causes memory foam mattresses to seem warm. When the body sinks into memory foam and weight is distributed evenly, air spaces are eliminated causing some body warmth to be trapped.
So, what can be done about it?
One of the easiest ways to reduce the warmth associated with sleeping on a memory foam mattress is to reduce the overall temperature in the room where the bed is placed. This will cause the natural build-up of body heat to occur more slowly. Be careful; however, not to over cool the room as it may interfere with the mattresses ability to absorb the body properly and bounce back after use.
Another way to address the warmth issue is to purchase a mattress topper that will add a layer of material between the body and the memory foam mattress. This may allow the mattress to remain slightly cooler but it could also interfere with the proper function of the mattress preventing the user from having the full memory foam experience.
Yet another way to keep a memory foam mattress cool is to use a bed frame so that air can circulate under and around the bed to keep it from becoming too warm. If using this method, ensure the mattress is properly supported so the memory foam is not damaged.
For most users, memory foam’s benefits far outweigh any negative effects of the warming issue. For those people who find the warmth uncomfortable, the above suggestions should go a long way in improving the situation.
A Helpful Memory Foam Mattress Buying Guide
Memory foam mattresses revolutionized the bedding industry and consumers have flocked in droves to own – literally – anything made from the NASA-inspired material. That is good and bad. Good in the sense that people have been exposed to a product that is proven to be superior to previously available sleep system options. And bad in the sense that the popularity of memory foam has given rise to a wide range in degrees of quality, with many products being subpar at best.
So how does a potential buyer cut through the claims and advertising language to get at the meat of what’s important when buying a memory foam mattress? Research and understanding of the key components of memory foam. To help with that, here is an easy to understand primer detailing what every consumer needs to know about memory foam mattresses before making a purchase.
First of all, know what you are buying and why. The main attraction of memory foam is the fact that these mattresses do not rely on metal springs for support. Memory foam is a visco-elastic product derived from polyurethane or plant-based mixture that hardens into a solid with millions of tiny open cells that provide the body-contouring effect that has won memory foam so many loyal users due to the unrivaled improvements to circulation and elimination of uncomfortable pressure points that are common with traditional mattresses.
Memory foam mattresses are produced by companies in several different countries. Be wary of the origins of the memory foam being used in a particular mattress especially when it originates in China where dubious production standards allow the use of substandard and even hazardous materials. The best memory foam mattresses are made in the United States – without exception.
Density and firmness are going to be the two main factors to consider when purchasing memory foam. Both are measured in pounds and that can be confusing to buyers who mistakenly think both density and firmness are the same.
The proper density of a memory foam mattress should range between three and five pounds. Anything less than three pounds may cause the user to bottom out and anything more than five pounds is likely to be too hard. Density is a sign of quality as some manufacturers will cut corners by using less dense, and therefore less expensive, memory foam. The highest quality memory foam mattresses will use at least two layers of memory foam with varying densities to provide the best combination of comfort and support.
The true determiner of firmness is a mattress’ ILD (Indentation Load Deflection) rating and this should not be overlooked. Within this rating system, a memory foam mattress with an ILD of 10 or less is going to be pretty plush while an ILD of 15 or more indicates a very firm composition.
When buying a memory foam mattress, also look for an in-home trial period and extended warranty. Memory foam mattresses are an expensive investment and most reputable retailers offer 90-day in-home trials to ensure the consumer gets the right mattress. Because memory foam mattresses are extremely durable, most companies also offer warranties that extend for as much as 10 years.
Ignore these simple truths about memory foam and risk purchasing a product that cannot deliver the coveted memory foam experience.
How To Take Care of a New Memory Foam Mattress
Fortunately – and despite its high-tech nature – memory foam mattresses require relatively little maintenance and care. However, there are several small things that should be done to ensure the longevity and durability of your memory foam bedding product. After all, memory foam mattresses are expensive and designed to last more than 10 years with proper care and treatment.
Proper care of a new memory foam mattress starts with its arrival. Memory foam is carefully shrink-wrapped in plastic and shipped in a very compact package. So, it will look nothing like the mattresses most people are familiar with. Carefully cut the plastic so as to not damage the underlying memory foam. Gently pull apart the compacted memory foam at the seams and place it in a flat position.
The memory foam mattress will need time to fully take shape – about one or two days. After that, the memory foam mattress is ready for use. You will need to remember that memory foam can be severely damaged by sharp objects so it is important to always take special care to keep anything away that could rip, tear or cut the memory foam.
Memory foam mattresses are designed in a way that does not necessitate flipping the mattress as in traditional innerspring varieties. The memory foam; however, can be rotated, but this is unlikely to be necessary.
Cleaning a memory foam mattress should be gentle in nature. Vacuum debris that may accumulate and spot clean with a mild, bleach-free detergent and wipe with a clean cloth or rag.
And that’s about it. Memory foam is resilient and extremely durable when proper use and care is combined. Most reputable memory foam manufacturers offer warranties that last a decade or longer and that is testament to the potential lifespan of the product. But proper care and maintenance is essential in that equation.
The Basics Of Memory Foam
Making the jump to memory foam from traditional innerspring mattresses, can be daunting without proper understanding of what is important and what is not. Since entering the retail marketing in the early 1990s, memory foam has grown rapidly in popularity.
What was initially a high-end product that was only offered by one or two manufacturers at high prices has become a mass-produced item that is much more affordable since there is now ample competition. As a result, many companies are engaged in marketing campaigns that are akin to standing on a busy street corner screaming every detail about their product at everyone who walks by. What the consumer gets is a cacophony of memory foam facts and figures that are confusing and sometimes misleading.
To cut through the din, there are a few things that are important to remember – the memory foam basics if you will.
Memory foam mattresses are completely different from innerspring mattresses, so through your conventional thinking out. Memory foam is the product of NASA research and technology and relies on millions of tiny cell-like air bubbles to provide the support traditional produced with metal springs. The result is a mattress that uses a contouring effect to cradle the body. As such, the feel of memory foam takes a bit to get adjusted to and can feel awkward at first.
Memory foam is a visco-elastic product which means it is generally manufactured using polyurethane as the main ingredient. The mixture is cured in a mold until it hardens in the shape of a mattress. Recently, some companies have begun to market eco-friendly memory foam beds that are comprised of plant-based materials.
Memory foam is temperature sensitive. This means that the room temperature will affect the performance of the memory foam. Memory foam softens when warmth is applied to the surface and this allows the body to be absorbed. If the room is too cold, the mattress may not soften sufficiently. Conversely, if the room is too hot, the mattress may become too soft for personal preference.
For most people, the level of a mattress’ firmness is the critical deciding point when considering a purchase. With memory foam mattresses, the best way to determine firmness is through its density rating. Memory foam is rated by how much it weighs per square foot. For most people, a mattress with a density of three to four pounds will be optimal. However, others may want a firmer mattress. Caution should be given to mattresses that do not use layers of varying density or that have a overall density of less than three pounds. This can be a sign of low quality.
Read the warranty carefully when choosing a memory foam mattress. These mattresses are very long lasting and their warranties should be too if the quality of the product is up to par. A memory foam mattress that is properly cared for and used can last for well over 10 years with no noticeable change in comfort level.
Pick the right memory foam mattress or memory foam mattress topper and care for it well, and a new level of sleep satisfaction can be experienced for many years to come.
Why Memory Foam Is Healthier For You
Memory foam has long been favored in the medical community for its therapeutic value. And aside from memory foam being the most comfortable mattress available on the market, new environmentally-friendly memory foam options have added a new health-minded element to an already attractive package.
Hospitals were the first to pick up on the benefits of memory foam after it was initially developed by NASA scientists. Even though memory foam was never used in a space mission, the medical community saw potential in its unique, pressure point eliminating, composition. Companies like tempurpedic mattresses saw the benefits of memory foam mattresses. Because there are no coils, metal springs or framing of any sort, memory foam provides support in a completely different way. On a memory foam mattress, the body is supported by millions of tiny open cells that compress under pressure and distribute weight evenly along the surface.
Because there are no springs pushing back against the body, there are none of the painful pressure points that have been a detriment to sleepers for ages. This means the body does not become sore or painful to the touch and circulation is improved as a byproduct. Alleviation of pressure points is even more important for people who are bedridden due to illness or injury.
Memory foam is also hypo-allergenic and anti-bacterial which means they will be especially beneficial to people who suffer from asthma or other breathing problems. The physical nature of memory foam is also repellant to dust mites and bed bugs – both of which can cause extreme discomfort and are major contributors to asthma-related episodes.
In recent years, some companies have stepped away from the pack and introduced environmentally-friendly “green” memory foam mattresses. Instead of polyurethane, these mattresses use plant-based materials for manufacture. Many health proponents would consider this a major step forward in the bedding industry.
While some may decry the chemical nature of most memory foam products and the off-gassing that occurs in the initial days of use, the issue really isn’t confined to memory foam but is instead fairly consistent with most other products on the market. There are chemicals involved in the basic manufacture of memory foam; however, this is the case as well with traditional mattresses that are sprayed with flame retardants and other chemicals. In any regard, the chemical off-gassing that occurs with memory foam is not considered hazardous to human health and dissipates within days.
Overall, the health benefits of a memory foam mattress far outweigh the drawbacks.
How Is Memory Foam Graded?
Memory foam is borne of NASA-inspired science so, not surprisingly, the finer points of how these types of mattresses are graded can be difficult to grasp. But it doesn’t have to be. The grade of a memory foam mattress is easier to understand when broken down into four essential categories.
Memory foam is made of polyurethane, plant-based or hybrid materials. Each mattress will have distinct qualities that will determine its price and ultimately the satisfaction of the customer. Understanding these four components of the memory foam grading system will help the consumer make the right purchase at the right price.
The four components that determine the grade of memory foam bedding are:
Density – All memory foams are sold with a density value that tells how much the memory foam weighs per square foot. This is not necessarily an indicator of how much the entire mattress weighs, however. For most people the right memory foam density is going to range between three and four pounds. The higher the density rating the firmer the mattress is generally going to be. Lower density foams are softer and are generally used in a top layer with subsequent layers becoming more and denser. A mattress that has an overall low density is likely to be of questionable quality and should be highly scrutinized.
Resilience – This rating refers to the memory foam’s ability to rebound to its original position after weight is applied – it’s the “memory” in memory foam. The resiliency of memory foam is determined by a test that involves dropping a steel ball onto the mattress to see how far the material rebounds after impact. High resiliency memory foams have a better ability to dampen weight and are mostly used as top layers with lower resiliency layers below.
Indentation Load Deflection – The mattress’ degree of hardness is going to be related through its Indentation Load Deflection rating. This reading shows the amount of pounds required to compress a four-inch memory foam mattress by 25 percent. A higher ILD rating indicates denser memory foam.
10 Things You Need To Know Before Buying A Memory Foam Mattress
When spending hundreds, or thousands, of dollars on a new sleep system, the purchase should be approached with deliberateness to ensure a good investment is made. Neglecting to research options available and the pros and cons of each brand can result in a negative experience that can draw out for years until another mattress purchase is made.
This doesn’t mean that the mattress buying process should be intimidating or impossible to navigate successfully. As with most of life’s endeavors, the greater the pool of information available during the purchase of a mattress, the more likely the deal will be a good one. 
Here are five things you need to know before buying a mattress:
- Budget matters – Mattresses, whether an innerspring, memory foam mattress or latex varieties, are expensive. Just like when you shop for a car or house, it is imperative to know your available budget, and related constraints, before you wade into the sales process. Establishing a budget up front and sticking to it will prevent over spending or unrealistic expectations that have no constructive value.
- There are many mattress varieties – The bedding marketplace has exploded in recent years as new bedding innovations and companies such as tempurpedic have joined old standards to create ample competition and prices that are more affordable than ever. Most mattresses are made of an internal network or metal coils and springs or molded materials like memory foam or latex. Memory foam is also now available in new plant-based varieties.
- In home trial – Most reputable mattress dealers provide some sort of in home trial. It is virtually impossible to properly test a mattress in the store or at all if buying online. Most in home trials last at least 90 days.
- Warranty is an indicator of quality – The warranty offered with a mattress can be a good indicator whether the product is worth considering. Low quality mattresses – that typically have a smaller price tag – will have a short-duration warranty to ensure the supplier doesn’t incur replacement expenses. Higher quality mattresses will have a warranty that reflects the value of the product. Memory foam is a highly durable material and many mattresses that contain the high-tech foam can have warranties of up to 20 years.
- Firmness and size are the characteristics that most matter – No matter your budget, you’ll want a bed that fits and provides the desired amount of support, the difference between a twin and king size memory foam mattress are huge! The amount of firmness a mattress has will determine how soft it is. Of course, the right firmness is an issue of personal preference. Mattresses usually come in several basic sizes – twin, double, queen and king. Some companies offer additional bed sizes that build off the basics available.
Memory Foam vs. Spring Mattresses
If there were such thing as a high performance sleep system, a memory foam mattress would surely be it. There are many reasons to invest in this new technology including comfort, value, durability, convenience and therapeutic value.
Memory foam mattresses have only been available on the retail market for about 20 years, but during that time an unmatched reputation for quality has grown among fans around the world. 
Here are some of the main reasons a memory foam mattress is a good investment:
• Comfort – Memory foam is comprised of a polyurethane or vegetable-based substance that supports body weight using millions of tiny open cells instead of metal springs. The bubbles soften when warmth is applied and collapse so you sink slightly into the mattress and weight is evenly distributed. The result is a contouring effect that cradles the body to eliminate the painful pressure points frequently associated with traditional mattresses.
• Durability – A memory foam mattress will retain its best qualities for 20 years or more with proper care and use. Conversely, an innerspring mattress becomes less comfortable and may need to be replaced within just a few years of purchase. Because of the limited shelf life of traditional mattresses, many people are forced to endure sore, sleepless nights because they can’t justify replacing a bed because it feels as if it was just purchased. Even after well over a decade of use, memory foam mattresses generally show no discernable change in level of comfort.
• Value – Memory foam has become more affordable in recent years as more companies have entered the marketplace offering competing products. Today, comparable memory foam and traditional mattresses are very close in price; however, the extended durability of memory foam tips the scale making it a far better investment.
• Convenience – Memory foam does not transfer of energy from movements. That means someone who gets up during the night or tosses and turns won’t disturb their partner on the other side of the bed.
• Therapeutic value – Not only is a memory foam mattress more comfortable than traditional mattresses; unique body contouring properties encourage proper circulation and restful sleep that will rejuvenate body and mind.
A Memory Foam Mattress Will Change Everything You Know About Sleeping
Everyone in the mattress industry will you tell you we spend about three-quarters of our entire lives in bed – because it’s true. And that’s ample time to develop a few well-honed impressions of what constitutes a good night’s rest.
If you’re using an innerspring mattress, chances are sleep value is measured in degrees of satisfaction that never quite reach the whole-body elation experienced on memory foam mattresses.
Innerspring mattress users have to contend with metal coils that push back and the associated pressure points that develop and lead to soreness and pain. Traditional mattresses also don’t have a very good ability to rebound over time. As the mattress ages, pockets and sags will develop where springs have lost their bounce. The uneven surface that is left can be a significant contributor to additional body stress and sleeplessness. 
Memory foam mattresses, however, are wholly immune to those problems due to their composition that uses no internal springs or coils. Inspired by NASA technology, memory foam is a polyurethane or vegetable-based mixture that is cured in a mold. Millions of open cells, that are essentially tiny air bubbles, provide memory foam’s unique support structure.
Initial praise for memory foam as a sleep system component came from the medical community where it is still preferred for hospital bedding due to its therapeutic qualities. By the time memory foam became available for general purchase in the 1990s, there was ample consumer interest and it hit the retail market with a huge splash. A memory foam mattress’ appeal isn’t hard to figure. The ground-breaking construction of memory foam mattresses allows them to consistently out perform traditional mattresses.
Memory foam is named for its ability to “remember” and rebound after use to its undisturbed position as if it had never been touched. The user’s body is cradled by the memory foam mattress’ contouring properties and afforded nothing less than total support.
Innerspring mattresses can’t do that.