Although most memory foam mattresses are similar in the sense that their uppermost layer is made of memory foam, there are plenty of other differences that you’ll need to consider in choosing the best memory foam mattress. I know it can be downright annoying to come across the many different complex jargons and labels especially when it comes to mattresses, so I’ll try to keep things simple here. There are 4 main things to consider in your mattress purchase: thickness, layers, warranty and average rating. All types of mattresses, including memory foam, will have thicknesses that vary anywhere from 6 inches to over 13 inches. Thickness matters for 2 reasons: weight of the user and mattress price. The rule of thumb here is that a heavier person should use a thicker mattress. Otherwise, if he were to use a mattress that’s too thin for his weight, that’s when the mattress will feel too firm, and thus uncomfortable. Generally, if you weight above 90 kg (or 200 pounds), you should get a mattress that has at least 10 inches of thickness.
If you weigh below 90 kg, you don’t have much to worry about here, though I’d still stay away from anything below 8 inches because that’s where manufacturers start to really skimp on the materials and the mattress will feel really firm regardless of your weight. A thicker mattress will be more expensive because of the additional materials put into it, so it makes no sense for someone who weighs say, 80 kg (or 175 pounds) to purchase a 14-inch mattress, when there’s a cheaper 10-inch mattress of the exact brand and model. It is very rare to find a mattress that’s completely made out of memory foam. Almost all of these mattresses will have multiple layers in them (usually 2-4). The top layer of a memory foam mattress will be made out of, well, memory foam. Despite being very well-received since its inception, some users have claimed that the traditional memory foam tends to feel warmer than other types of mattresses. This has led to the creation of something called gel-infused memory foam.
These newer gel-infused versions supposedly help with air circulation within this top layer itself in order to keep the body cooler. Some memory foam mattresses actually come with 1-2 additional layers in between the top and bottommost layers. These middle layers offer additional comfort or support. For instance, some mattresses have extra layers of airflow foam to allow even better air circulation for a cooler mattress. The base layer is usually the thickest of the bunch and consists of higher-density foam solely for the purposes of support. Nothing much to look at here. A long warranty period is great for 2 reasons. Firstly, it offers peace of mind since you’ll be protected from any potential defects that may arise in the future. Defects such as a sinking mattress or loss in firmness are some of the most common problems that people have faced, even in the most popular brands. Secondly, it shows confidence on the part of the manufacturer on the quality of its products.
With that said, after combing through some 50+ memory foam mattresses from the most popular brands, I’ve come up with a list of the 5 best memory foam mattresses that are available today: What mattress am I using? Just in case you’re wondering, I’m currently using a Tuft & Needle foam mattress. The reason why I didn’t include it in the table above is that it’s technically not a memory foam mattress, but rather polyurethane foam. From a practical viewpoint though, it could easily pass off as one. Does this mean it’s inferior? No, it certainly isn’t. In fact, it’s even better than a lot of other memory foam mattresses that I’ve tried in the past because it simply doesn’t retain as much heat as many denser memory foam mattresses that do not have sufficient cooling attributes. I’ve woken up all sweaty during the night from a couple of memory foam mattresses that I’ve tried and returned over the years, but not this one. Firmness-wise, it did take me a while before I got used to it (about a whole week).
I have switched to the Tuft & Needle mattress from my previous innerspring mattress, which was incidentally way too soft for me and which had partly sunk in at certain areas, so the difference in firmness was definitely noticeable. I’ve also had shoulder and neck problems for as long as I could remember, but they’ve slowly disappeared over time ever since I made the change. I couldn’t think of any other lifestyle changes besides my mattress and pillow (also memory foam), so this must be it. But I want a true memory foam mattress, nothing else! Okay, okay, if you’re picky about things, any of the top 5 mattresses in the table above would be excellent choices. Personally, my body gets really hot at night while I’m sleeping and I sweat really easily, so a warm bed without sufficient ventilation or cooling is a no-no for me. Thus, if you have a similar problem, I’d go with DynastyMattress since it has some of the best cooling attributes for a memory foam mattress, thanks to its dual 2-inch airflow foam layers in the middle in addition to its already gel-infused memory foam layer at the top.
There might be a slight chemical odor as you unpack the mattress, but just air it with the windows open for about a day, or leave the fan on for a couple of hours if you can’t wait and it should be good to go. In fact, many other mattresses have the exact same problem but it’s nothing a little airing wouldn’t fix. The DynastyMattress also has the longest warranty period (30 years) I’ve ever seen in any mattress brands and I’m a sucker for warranties, so.. Anyway, good luck with your choice, and if you want to get back to the comparison table above, click here.Learn how you can earn $30,000/year renting your RVI've been in the mattress industry over a decade and the #1 question I hear from people is, "What type of foundation or support base should I use with my memory foam or latex mattress? As most of you know, a foundation is the support base or mechanism that sits underneath a mattress. Both memory foam and latex mattresses require a solid, uniform foundation to work properly.
If you currently have an older box spring foundation, definitely read on. The Two Types of Foundations Two Basic Types of Mattress Foundations on the MarketThere are two basic types of mattress foundations in the mattress world today: box springs and foundations. Box springs are, for the most part, a combination of wood and steel springs that act like shock absorbers for a traditional innerspring mattress. Foundations are a more solid structure, for use with memory foam or latex mattresses, and are typically a solid wood top or wood slatted system with a cover. Now, older box springs, typically ones that are over 10 years old, have too much give with their spring systems, and are not a good support base for memory foam mattresses. If you have an existing box spring, it is less than 10 years old and still in good shape, test it by pushing against the springs in several spots. Make sure the entire box spring has the same consistency in feel. If it’s rigid and firm, with an inch or less of give, then it should be OK to use with a memory foam mattress or latex mattress.
If not, then you’re going to have to purchase a mattress foundation. This foundation comes in all sizes. It's perfect for memory foam and latex mattresses. I've tested it myself. Typical foundations on the market today are either steel frame and steel frame/wood slat combinations or come with a nice zippered cover, and a solid, wood top or even tacked cardboard. They are ideal for memory foam or latex mattresses, because they provide a solid, uniform bottom for the foam cores. The less give you have, the better. This wood slat foundation is super sturdy at a great price. Assembled height is about ten inches off the floor, so with mattress it sits at a nice height off of floor. I had a 10-inch mattress on mine. Not too low and not too high. Easy to get in and out. Roll on Wood Slat Foundation Wood Slat Mattress FoundationsWood slat foundations work well too, as long as the slats are close enough together. We like to see the slats no more than 3” apart or less, preferably 2” apart.
You’ll need to measure or make sure with a retailer that the slats are close enough together. Otherwise, you’ll need to put a ½” to ¾” cut plywood or pressboard over the slats to create that solid, uniform bottom (these boards will typically be in two cuts that you’ll butt together, the bigger the mattress you have). Foldable Metal FoundationsI recently tested the Pragma bed platform with both a memory foam and a latex mattress. The platform worked beautifully with both types. It unfolds easily and folds right back up in seconds to store. The metal support strands are close enough together to provide that much needed congruous support. This foundation is great for guest beds that need to be put away after use but would also work well for a main mattress with long term use. I highly recommend this platform foundation. It comes in a surprisingly small box, because it is collapsable. It is lightweight which makes it easy to move (as you'll see in the video at right) so is great for storage.
Memory Foam on the Floor?I get this question a lot: Is it ok to put a memory foam mattress directly on the floor? The simple answer is yes. Because these mattresses needs a solid, uniform bottom and a floor provides that. The floor functions like a foundation. Now, this will be a very low profile bed, because you don't have the elevation that a foundation and frame would give you. Getting out of bed will be a bit difficult. However, many people do this, particularly folks who are just starting out and trying to save some money. Make sure to check your mattress' warranty to determine whether it is affected/voided by not using a traditional foundation. This is sometimes the case. Adjustable Base ShipShape Assembly Video Which adjustable base would I recommend? By far, the ones manufactured by Leggett and Platt. They are durable, last a long time, are backed by a good warranty, and are built with quality components and craftsmanship. And, if my word isn't enough for you, the leading memory foam mattress company (which I dare not name because of their trademark restrictions, just think of the glass of wine test on the mattress) uses these adjustable bases almost exclusively with their models.