Best memory foam mattress comparison 2015

What Is a Memory Foam Mattress?

Most people looking to buy have probably asked themselves this question before. In its simplest and most common form, memory foam mattresses are generally manufactured using viscoelastic foam and consists of a three layered design.

A typical 4 tier design

The topmost “Comfort Layer” is made of special materials which molds to the body shape when it comes into contact with body heat. By molding to the body shape, the downward pressure and stress on joints created by gravity are eliminated. When the foam cools down, or if parts of the body are not in contact, the surface will turn to its original horizontal form.
The second platform is usually referred to as the “Support Layer.” It’s designed to be more rigid so the overall shape of the mattress is retained, and offers support to the softer and thinner comfort layer.
Then you have the “Base Layer” which is the bottom platform of the design. The base supports the top two and is usually the thickest and most rigid of the three. Each layer mentioned can have sub-layers depending on manufacturer, design and innovation, but generally that’s how it is made up.

Things To Consider When Buying

– Thickness

The most common sizes or names in the U.S are Twin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, King and California King. In the UK and other countries sometimes the sizes are referred to as different names like Double Sized, Single, King Size and Super King. Aside from the various mattress sizes, the most common feature you’ll see advertised when buying memory foam mattresses are their thickness. Each can range anything between 7 inches all the way up to 16 inches thick, and sometimes possibly more. Generally the thicker ones are more expensive as they offer more than the conventional 3 layers. For example there may be an extra ventilation layer, or an extra comfort layer. There are generally 3 platforms which make up the design. Each one is generally different in thickness and serves its own purpose. One thing to note though is that just because its thicker overall doesn’t always mean its better quality. Be sure to check the thickness of each layer, and to check what combination, materials and foam type have been included in its design.

– Foam Type: Viscoelastic

Viscoelastic internals

First on the scene, since 1992 the visco elastic memory foam mattress has probably become the most established and the most popular. You may see this type referred to as Standard, Traditional Polyurethane, or Petroleum Based. As the name suggests this type uses petroleum-based polyurethane foam and was invented by NASA, and was originally commercially released for bedding purposes by a company named Tempur-Pedic. Sometimes you may see the Traditional also referred to as Tempurpedic but it’s important to remember that this is the brand, not the technology.

Pros – The viscoelastic is great for motion isolation, silent usage, joint aches and back pain relief, durability, and availability. Being one of the most popular technologies adopted by entry level and expert manufacturers makes this type of mattress widely available in almost every local showroom and online retailer. Due to the extensive ranges available there is something available for everyone; prices range from $200 for a cheap memory foam mattress all the way upto $10,000 for a top end product; so depending on your budget you can have exactly whatever suits your needs. In terms of durability you generally get what you pay for, but should expect your new mattress to last over 7 years even for a budget brand. The great motion isolation derives from temperature reactive technology; this means your partner may be 3 inches away but can be tossing and turning without disturbing your side of the bed.

Cons – Although the viscoelastic type has been a consumer favorite for decades and is far better than innerspring or pocket sprung, it has stiff competition now with alternate designs such as gel-infused or natural plant based models. The main issues of concern are complaints of toxic off-gassing, voc’s, heat retention, slow response times and sleeping hot. Viscoelastic foam reacts with temperature which means body heat will mold the shape around contours of your body, however this technology often excessively retains heat and can lead to the sleeper feeling uncomfortably hot throughout the night, which isn’t great for hotter climates but can be a bonus for colder ones. As well as sleeping hot due to heat retention, slow response times from the mattress when moving around are common due to slower reactions to the temperature. The most common complaint however is the toxic off-gassing (also known as out gassing) which is the release of odor that can last anything from a few days to a few weeks. Off-gassing is the process of a chemical release which occurs in a new mattress due to its chemical composition and packaging. Recent surveys show that 15% of people complain of off-gassing.

– Foam Type: Gel-Infused

A common gel structure

The gel memory foam mattress is the latest addition of the three types. Essentially this is the traditional viscoelastic foam version but infused with millions of gel beads. The idea behind this technology is the gel will not trap heat like its predecessor; trapped heat can lead to poor response times when someone moves around and can also increase the body temperature. Big brands such as Serta and Brentwood have established a foothold online and in showrooms with popular models of the gel mattress.

Pros – They tend to sleep cooler and dissipate heat at a faster rate, which leads to faster response times when moving around throughout the night. There is also minimal motion transfer which means you can move around freely without disturbing your partner. Also, because this is the latest hype many manufacturers have begun to utilize this technology, so buying a gel memory foam mattress is very easy in terms of availability.

Cons – Although generally the gel mattress sleeps cooler to begin with, if two people are sharing, throughout the course of the night the gel can tend to warm up. Also, like the traditional memory foam mattresses the gel models also let off VOC’s and so the “new odor” is quite common, however this shouldn’t last more than a few days.

– Foam Type: Plant-based / Natural

An aloe vera mattress

Also known as an eco or natural memory foam mattress, this is quickly becoming one of the most popular and best rated mattress choices amongst consumers. The plant-based solution replaces a portion of the gel or petroleum-based substances for plant extract as its filling. Such extracts could be soya, aloe vera, tea or bamboo; each manufacturer may use different plants but will generally make it clear in their specifications what they are using.

Pros – When it comes to comfort, joint pain relief and support, these products generally offer the same benefits as its predecessors (the viscoelastic and gel mattress). However they are far superior when it comes to motion isolation, heat dissipation, good joint support, back pain relief, odors, off-gassing, eco-friendliness and health consciousness. They are cooler to sleep on and dissipate heat up to 10x faster than a polyurethane foam mattress due to the extreme open-cell technology. These are widely accepted as the best mattress for allergies and sensitive skin due to the natural substances used, offering a healthy alternative to chemicals found in the previously mentioned products. The eco-friendly innovation means they are manufactured with zero emissions and contain zero toxic VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) which have previously been cause for concern with traditional petroleum-based models. Also, unlike the visco memory foam there is no toxic off-gassing resulting in bad odor from the mattress.

Cons – Like any new and innovative technology this type is generally more expensive than a viscoelastic or gel mattress. Some people have sensitive skin and allergies so will unfortunately have to pay the premium for natural products. You may also struggle to find showrooms locally which stock or deliver these products; however if you want a plant based item you’ll find plenty online at Amazon.com.

– Density / Firmness Level

One of the most important things to consider is how soft or hard the molding experience should be. When we say molding, we mean how the mattress firmness reacts to weight and pressure, adjusting to the contours of the body, thus producing an even, comfy, firm or soft platform. The lower density type means you will experience a deeper, more plush and cozy sinking sensation; whereas the increased density type means that although the sinking sensation will still occur to an extent, it will feel more firm and padded. One isn’t better than the other, its down to personal preference.

You will commonly see density measured in pounds (lbs). A foam density of 2 – 5lbs is most common, and anything over 5lbs is considered high quality. Just remember that a lower density figure means soft and plush. A higher density figure means it will be firm and supportive, which is usually considered the best mattress for side sleepers and back pain.

IFD Ratings are another way of identifying how soft or firm the foam is. The ratings range between super soft (IFD 10) and semi-rigid (IFD 120). The most common are generally an IFD 12 to IFD 16, but this measurement isn’t very widespread in the mainstream market.

Memory Foam Mattress Reviews

LUCID – Plush 14

The Plush 14 by LUCID is probably one of the best memory foam mattresses when it comes to value for money in our opinion. It is a generous 4 layer bamboo charcoal plant-infused best seller that has been around for a while and making its name amongst comfort seekers. The bamboo charcoal is good for sensitive skin and hypoallergenic, the foam is 100% CertiPUR-US® certified, and it comes with a 25-year warranty!

DreamFoam – Ultimate Dreams 13

Yet another great value product from a leading American manufacturer. This 13″ thick gel memory foam mattress has a 3″ 4 lb comfort layer, followed by 2″ of 5 lb support layer, and a 8″ of high density base layer. A great design and a very popular choice amongst buyers.

DynastyMattress – Luxury Grand 15

This is a fairly new model but is quickly establishing itself as a popular best seller. At 15″ thick, the traditional polyurethane foam mattress is wrapped in a luxurious brown suede side fabric with a stretch knit on top. The 5 lbs density rating gives it a comfort rating of medium-soft. It also comes with a 20 year warranty and 120 day in home trial!

Sleep Innovations – SureTemp 12

This model of memory foam mattresses is great for people on a tighter budget. The extremely popular 2 layered 12″ visco mattress comprises of a traditional polyurethane 2.5″ comfort and a 9.5″ support base. The 3 lbs density rating means this one will be luxuriously soft and cozy, but still offering that all essential therapeutic and orthopedic support. It comes vacuum packed and with a 20 year manufacturers limited warranty.

Brentwood Home – Bamboo Gel 13

This is another smart, innovative, multi-layered design from the all American Brentwood Home. The medium density 13” gel mattress comprises of four levels of different materials which combine to make a cool and comfortable sleeping surface. Proudly manufactured in Los Angeles, California, it comes available in all the common sizes. The removable natural bamboo cover is washable too, and with an above average warranty period, this is a safe and recommended buy.

Amerisleep – Revere

The Amerisleep Revere is probably the most popular eco-friendly natural mattress around. It has a 12″ overall height with a 3″ premium 4.5 lb comfort layer which offers medium firm support. Manufactured using its innovative and unique Bio-Pur material means this a great value 12″ plant-based product.

Conclusion

There is no such thing as the worst or best memory foam mattress. It all depends on personal preference, requirements and budget. However, considering that a good mattress can easily last over 10 years, plus factoring the original cost involved, it’s wise to make the right choice from the outset. Consider it more an investment than anything else; after all this purchase will bring you health benefits as-well as comfort.

Our personal recommendation is to spend a little extra and purchase a plant-based natural product. These are generally more expensive than a traditional or gel mattress, but there are valid reasons for the extra cost.

Of the 6 memory foam mattress reviews our number one choice is the Lucid Plush 14. The 14″ overall thickness is relatively thick compared to others and that’s not the only good thing either. Made up of a 1″ quilted bamboo charcoal top, 3″ comfort layer, 2″ support layer and a 8″ high-density base, it offers a medium-firm support which is recommended for most people from both a health and comfort point of view. The breathable, open-cell technology means this one stays cool and offers a temperature-neutral comfort. It’s perfect for different sleeping positions which means whether you’re a side sleeper or back sleeper you’ll always have maximum support. It’s also certified made in the USA (not China like some other major brands) which means guaranteed compliance with strict manufacturing and environmental guidelines; and for added peace of mind it comes with a 25 year warranty.

Reference: Choosemattress.com, gel memory foam mattress topper