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.Consider the Size of Your Bed Frame Although memory foam mattresses are considered specialty mattresses, they actually come in all standard sizes, which allows for easy pairing with your current bed frame. Whether you've got a space-saving single bed or a luxurious California King, you're sure to find the perfect sized mattress to suit your needs. If you're starting from scratch, bed frame options range from basic steel frames to modern-style platform beds in a variety of finishes to complement your space.
Memory foam mattresses can also be paired with adjustable pivot foundations that adjust the mattress to your specific comfort needs, allowing for an amazing night's rest. While a common belief is that memory foam is one type of foam, there are actually multiple types of memory foam to choose from. Traditional foam supports the body by creating a soft cradle, which also minimizes pressure points and helps to increase circulation. Gel memory foam contains the same gel formulation that is typically found in inserts that are placed in shoes to reduce pressure, which in turn helps to sooth body discomfort. Gel memory foam is a great option for individuals who suffer from chronic pain, sore muscles, and overall body stress. If you tend to heat up during sleep, consider an air-cool memory foam mattress. The cool-air technology filters out heat as the body warms up throughout the night, allowing you to stay comfortable as you sleep. Choose a Mattress Topper for Added Comfort While memory foam mattresses provide an amazing level of comfort when used alone, a topper adds extra cushioning that truly gives the "sleeping on a cloud" sensation.
For additional firmness, latex mattress toppers are an ideal option. While you still get to experience the maximum comfort of your memory foam mattress, latex toppers are available in soft, medium or extra firm, allowing for additional balance and support. Baffle-channel featherbed cover sets are generally super-soft, and the baffle design prevents feathers from popping out or moving around inside the topper. Determine the Appropriate Thickness Memory foam thickness options range from as thin as 6 inches to 14 inches thick. In general, thicker mattresses are softer than super-thin mattresses, however, choosing a thinner style won't take away the natural comfort of a memory foam mattress. The base foam is the main support structure, and each level after that adds extra softness. It's also important to keep in mind that adding a topper will help increase the overall thickness of your mattress. Memory foam mattresses offer high-density, medium-density, and low-density options.
High- density foam is considered the most durable, while medium-density allows for optimal motion isolation, making it a great option for those who sleep two in a bed. Low-density foam is easy to break in, meaning your body may adjust quicker to the memory foam of a low-density mattress compared to a higher-density version. When comparing density levels, a good rule of thumb to go by is the weight. For example, medium-density foam is typically 4 to 5 pounds per cubic foot, while high-density foam can weigh as much as 10 pounds per cubic foot. Consider a Hypoallergenic Mattress While all memory foam mattresses are antimicrobial, certain mattresses are more effective than others when it comes to keeping dust mites and other allergens at bay. Gel memory foam tends to be the most resistant to dust mites, while traditional foam with a higher density can also help minimize the prevalence of allergens. However, latex foam is the only type of memory foam considered to be truly hypoallergenic.