Memory Foam Mattresses: What To Look For

Buying a new mattress is never easy. The truth is, you won’t find out whether or not you made the right purchase until you sleep on one for 2-3 weeks. Memory foam in particular can be tricky, as not all memory foam is created the same. It’s very unique in that it conforms to a person’s body. One of the biggest memory foam mattress benefits is that it reduces pressure points, which is particularly helpful to those with physical ailments. It’s also temperature sensitive, which means that it gets firmer at lower temperatures and softer at higher temperatures. This allows for melting into the mattress so it can mold to your body.

Here are a few tips when buying a memory foam mattress:

Density

Density gets talked about a lot when it comes to memory foam. However, it simply refers to how much it weighs. While it doesn’t directly correlate with overall quality, the medium-to-higher densities typically are best. Their is no perfect density for everyone, but 4 pounds is a pretty safe bet. A 3 pound density probably won’t feel as nice nor last as long. The 5+ pound density is very common right now, and most customers are satisfied overall them. Though, they are a bit too firm for some.

Durability

Durability is key for several reasons. First, getting rid of a memory foam mattress is no fun at all. They are usually very big and a handful to move once it has been opened and full-expanded. Second, the good ones are usually expensive, so you want to hold off buying a new mattress for as long as possible.

On average, the higher the density (4+lbs), the better the durability of the mattress. They remain supportive and comfortable typically for 10+ years, which would be good value considering the quality of sleep you will be getting.

Comfort

How comfortable is it? Do you have any physical aches or pains that require more support? A lower density mattress (3 lbs or less) is typically softer, while heavier mattresses are more firm. A number of customers report that a higher density mattress has provided pain relief in areas such as the neck, back, hip and shoulder pain. For smaller, lighterweight individuals a less dense mattress might be best since you won’t sink down as much. Average to heavier weight individuals would benefit more from a higher density since they will require more firmness and support.

Ideally, it’s best lie down on a mattress before buying if possible. Another way to evaluate comfort is to read customer reviews online.

Thickness

The ideal thickness is in the range of 3-5 inches of medium to high density foam. 3 inches provides a sufficient amount of material to conform to your body. A mattress that is too thick can actually have too much cushion, and the result is getting sucked too far into it.

Density does play a big role in how comfortable a mattress will feel. Do your due diligence before making a purchase.

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