Memory Foam Mattress

Buying Tips and Considerations

A memory foam mattress may make you feel more comfortable and help you sleep better, particularly if you suffer from arthritis or joint pain. Because these mattresses adapt to body contours, their use may help ease pain and enable more restful sleep.

Mattresses made with memory foam evenly distribute your body weight and are purported to provide better support for your back, shoulders, and neck than other mattress types. The foam adjusts based on the temperature of your body. Then, the foam bounces back to its original shape when a person moves.

To maintain the best in sleep comfort and mattress benefits, a memory foam bed should be replaced about every seven years or sooner if it is showing signs of age. This timing is similar to replacement recommendations for other types of mattresses.

Foam mattresses, toppers, and pillows are made from Visco Elastic, a material created for use in the space program. NASA began using this foam about 50 years ago for seats and cushions because the specific construction of dense, open chambers gave astronauts great comfort during long flights. The material is also used in a variety of other products, such as helmets, shoes, and hospital beds.

Buying Tips

Check the foam density and look for mattresses, toppers and pillows made of 100 percent Visco Elastic. Other materials mixed in with the foam may affect mattress quality.

Foam density should be between 2.25 and 2.75 kg, or between 5 and 6 pounds. "Indention load deflection" scale is the firmness rating for foam beds. Higher numbers mean firmer mattresses. Your mattress should be firm enough to provide support, yet still offer cushioning and recoil.

Before making a purchase, try out the foam mattress by resting on it for 15 minutes or longer. Lie on your back, side, and stomach to the mattress properly. If two people sleep in a bed, both should spend time evaluating the feel of the mattress.

Buy from a store that offers a 30-day return and refund policy. That way, if you have problems, you are not stuck with a mattress that may cause you discomfort.

Other Considerations

These mattresses, because they mold to the body, allow for little movement. If you are a sleeper who rolls around, a foam mattress may not be the best choice. Movement during sleep can be good for you, so inhibiting it may not be appropriate for your lifestyle.

Additionally, some people may be sensitive to the odor these mattresses emit when they are first put in use. The odor may last a few days to a month or more and may be troublesome to people with allergies or other issues.

The best way to know if a memory foam mattress is right for you is to test it out in the store. You may also want to discuss your sleep habits and your choice of mattress with your doctor.