What is a Memory Foam Mattress?

Memory foam mattresses came onto the market several decades ago and have seen many advances in their technology and construction since then. Unlike traditional mattresses, memory foam mattresses are built to conform to your body's unique shape and weight distribution. Let’s explore what makes a memory foam mattress so special, from the materials used to create it to the benefits of sleeping on one.

History of Memory Foam

NASA first invented memory foam in the 1960s for use in rocket seats. The shock-absorbing, pressure-relieving memory foam then went on to be used as cushioning for other products, like helmets, shoes, and wheelchair seats.

Tempur-Pedic was the first to begin using memory foam to make mattresses, and several other manufacturers have since followed suit. Memory foam mattresses have many fans due to the material’s softness and motion absorbency.

Memory foam can be made in different ways and from different materials, such as gel, open-cell, polyfoam, and latex foam. These mattresses are well-loved for their ability to “hug” your body and provide relief for pressure points, returning to their original shape as you move around.

Types of Memory Foam Mattresses

There are three main types of memory foam used for mattresses. Some mattresses combine all three types in layers, while others use only one type.

Traditional Memory Foam - The first memory foam mattresses were made of traditional memory foam, based in polyurethane. While it contoured to your body, it also tended to retain heat. Modern versions include airflow designs or cooling gel layers.
Open-Cell Memory Foam - This type is structured for airflow, helping sleepers stay cooler. Its structure contains pockets that circulate air to avoid trapping body heat. Some manufacturers create firmer open-cell memory foam for additional support.
Gel Pod Memory Foam - Newer memory foam mattresses include gel pods inside the mattress or as a top layer. This gel pulls heat away from the sleeper for a cooler sleep experience.

Advantages of Memory Foam

Pressure Point Relief - Memory foam softens pressure on joints, conforming to your body shape and allowing you to sink comfortably into the mattress.
Hypoallergenic and Antimicrobial - Memory foam is naturally antimicrobial. Anyone with allergies will find these mattresses hypoallergenic.
Motion Transfer Resistant - Memory foam absorbs movement, so if you sleep with a partner, they won’t feel your movements.
Quiet - Memory foam absorbs noise, eliminating squeaky springs.

Disadvantages of Memory Foam

Less Support for Stomach Sleepers - Stomach sleepers need firmer mattresses for spine alignment. Memory foam may be too conforming in some cases.
Off-Gassing - Some memory foam mattresses release a slight odor for the first 24–48 hours after unpacking.
Lifespan - Memory foam mattresses generally last 7–10 years, sometimes longer with proper care.

Buying Considerations

All mattresses need foundations to prevent sagging. Memory foam performs best on solid platforms or flat foundations.

Bed Frames - Traditional metal bed frames may require a bunkie board to support a memory foam mattress. Bunkie boards can help maintain support.
Box Springs - A traditional box spring may not support heavy memory foam mattresses. Some warranties are void if using a box spring. Consider flat foundations or platform beds.
Slatted Bases - Slatted bases or platform beds provide better support for memory foam. Add a bunkie board if necessary to prevent sagging.

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