Memory Foam Mattress Guide
Finding a comfortable and supportive mattress is incredibly important for a restful sleep - and a memory foam mattress is the perfect choice! But there are plenty of questions you might have regarding this type of mattress, such as whether memory foam is worth it, how long memory foam lasts, and what its disadvantages are. So let’s get to it!
What is a memory foam mattress?
Memory foam mattresses have a layer of memory foam designed to contour to your body as you sleep. Many mattresses that use memory foam will also combine springs or layers of other foam to help produce a more supportive mattress.
A memory foam mattress is a popular choice as it has the unique ability to mould to your body shape throughout the night. This means you get custom support for your joints before bouncing back into shape the next day. Over time, memory foam will eventually 'remember' your shape, giving you a more restful sleep.
Find out more about memory foam mattresses and other mattress types in our mattress buying guide.
Is it good to sleep on memory foam?
If you want custom support whilst you sleep, then a memory foam mattress is a great choice! Many orthopaedic memory foam mattresses offer extra features that enhance the pressure-relieving effect of memory foam on your joints, helping to give you the best sleep possible.
Given the fact that memory foam mattresses mould to your sleeping position, it also means that you get the optimal amount of spinal support. Another benefit is that a memory foam mattress helps reduce movement during the night, meaning you won't be jostled awake if your partner moves around frequently!
Is memory foam worth it?
Memory foam is definitely worth it, as it offers many benefits, including plenty of support and hypoallergenic manufacture. Because of its structure, memory foam resists dust mites which makes it great for allergy sufferers!
What are the disadvantages of memory foam?
There are only a few minor disadvantages to memory foam, and some people may not even find them a disadvantage at all! Due to its contouring nature, some people find they feel ‘stuck’ and do not enjoy this sensation. A counterpoint to this is that many memory foam mattresses also offer options with springs, giving you a little leeway to move around whilst still enjoying the benefit of custom support.
Another slight disadvantage is that memory foam works on a temperature basis, which means it moulds via body heat. Therefore some people may find it a little too hot to sleep on, though most memory foam mattresses nowadays are designed with special cooling features to help combat this. It's important to remember that despite this, how warm you feel in bed also depends on the type of duvet you pick!
How often should you flip your memory foam mattress?
Your memory foam mattress label should tell you how often it will need to be rotated, but it's usually around 1-2 times a year. You should only flip your mattress if the manufacturer specifically recommends it, so make sure to find this out before purchasing!
This is because many memory foam mattresses are specifically designed with a layer of memory foam on top, so if you flip it over, you won't be sleeping on the memory foam at all!
How many years does a memory foam mattress last?
A memory foam mattress lasts a long time if it's cared for properly - sometimes even longer than the recommended seven years! But for sanitary reasons, we'd recommend that you replace any mattress within the recommended time frame!
This will ensure you get the latest benefits from any new mattress technology whilst enjoying a comfortable sleep every night! You can also increase the lifespan of your mattress by investing in a mattress topper, which will take the brunt of any dirt or accidents and keep your mattress looking great!
Find out how to keep your mattress in tip-top condition with our mattress cleaning guide.
Do memory foam mattresses get softer with time?
Memory foam mattresses will eventually get softer than the initial firmness experienced, but - not to worry - this is just a sign that it's learning your body shape and sleeping position. It might take a few weeks to feel much softer, but it will get there!