Time to Weigh in on Memory Foam

by: M. O'Brien

The introduction of memory or visco-elastic foam in the early nineteen nineties was a revolution in sleep systems. The comfort of a material that would literally mold itself to your body shape has drawn many people to make the switch from a conventional mattress system. Since memory foam was originally developed, the foam is now being produced by many different manufacturers. The surge in production has resulted in grades of memory foam that are, in some cases, significantly different than the original product.

The term memory foam has become somewhat ubiquitous in the market place but the fact is that not all memory foam is the same. As a consumer, knowing the weight of the foam that is used in the mattress is a key indicator of quality, comfort and price. As a general rule, the heavier the foam, the more dense and supportive it is when used as the top layer of a mattress. The density or weight of the foam is calculated in terms of weight per cubic foot. Think of a box one foot square and imagine the box shape to be a piece of memory foam. The weight per cubic foot of foam can range anywhere from 2.5 to 4.0 pounds per cubic foot.

Another general rule of thumb is that the heavier the foam per cubic foot, the more expensive the mattress. On the other hand, some people prefer the feel of softer, less dense foam. Still other people like a more solid feel in the mattress which can be found in heavier foam. Denser foam has fewer air cells or pockets and does not compress at the same rate of foam with more air and less foam. The thickness of the foam can vary from mattress to mattress posing yet another choice for foam mattress buyers.

The method of choosing a mattress has not changed over the years. The principal issue for most people is how does the mattress feel and that principal holds true for memory foam mattresses. Don’t just take the salespersons word for it – get on the mattress and give it thorough test. I always recommend that you find the position that you normally sleep in rather than just lying on your back. Testing the feel of the mattress is the only sure way to know if a visco-memory mattress is right for your.

So when purchasing your next mattress system be sure to inquire about a memory foam model. Try it out and see for yourself if it is the right sleep choice for you.

About the Author

M. O'Brien