Natural Memory Foam Mattresses - Why Are They So Healthy?


We spend a third of our lives sleeping. So it is really important to choose the right mattress. A quality mattress will ensure a good night's rest so we wake up refreshed and ready for the busy day ahead. Natural memory foam mattresses (this means memory foam mattresses made from natural latex) are a healthy choice for a number of reasons.

They provide a Comfortable Night's Rest

Did you know in today's European market, memory foam mattresses far outsell traditional spring mattresses?

Natural memory foam mattresses are a popular alternative to inner-spring mattresses because they provide such fantastic comfort and support. They distribute body weight evenly which greatly reduces pressure points and improves circulation to give you a better night's sleep.

They Help Ward Off Dust Mites

Coil mattresses with natural padding are a cheaper option, but not necessarily the healthiest. Why? The spring system acts as an incubator for dust mites, mould and mildew. This is why spring mattresses double in weight after a decade. Skin, dust and dust mite feces collect in this damp and dark area.

A natural latex mattress is perfect because there is no open area for dust mites to accumulate or reproduce. There will always be dust mites, but the aim is to reduce them to a 'normal' level.

They are Organic and Natural

Did you know a quarter of the world's pesticides are used for cotton crops? To make just one T-shirt, a quarter of a pound of pesticides are used. That's why choosing organic makes a massive difference for our health and environment.

Natural memory foam mattresses are made using organic fabrics. When selecting your mattress, make sure your mattress is organic all the way through from top, fill and back. Choose unbleached organic cotton with organic fill and organic dyes and steer clear of harsh chemically treated fabrics.

Natural memory foam mattresses are made from natural latex as opposed to either synthetic or a blend of natural and synthetic content. Natural latex foam comes from rubber tree sap that has been frothed up and baked. It is so appealing because it is healthy, has a life-span of 20 plus years and maintains its consistency, unlike synthetics which dry out and break down.

Natural memory foam mattresses contain organic fill or batting. This is what is inside a mattress over the springs or latex foam. Organic cotton or wool are batting you will find in a natural or healthy mattress. Most natural mattresses are quite firm. Natural latex is a fairly firm rubbery foam. Fibres soften the surface of a spring or natural latex mattress. By topping the mattress, it helps provide a more comfortable night's sleep.

No Toxic Fire Retardants

Did you know every mattress sold in the United States must have enough fire retardant to withstand a two foot wide blow torch open flame for 70 seconds?

Natural memory foam mattresses do not contain toxic fire retardants.



Why Choose a Memory Foam Mattress and Mattresses?


For individuals considering a new mattress or if your mattress is in good condition but a little too firm, memory foam mattress toppers are a great solution. A memory foam mattress topper can do wonders for aches and pains, tossing and turning, and providing you with the ultimate comfort while you sleep. A viscoelastic mattress pad fits completely over you existing mattress, and has the ability to turn your current bed into a new sleep system, providing you with a comfort level you never imagined. You will sleep better than you have in years.

Visco foam density one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a mattress or topper. Typically, the denser the foam, the higher quality the foam is. High density foam will provide the best support and durability. Typically 5 lbs is seen as high quality foam and is most desirable for memory foam toppers.

Also ensure your memory foam mattresses pad is thick enough to make your purchase worth your while. They are available in a variety of thicknesses ranging anywhere from one inch to 4 inches and more. Most recommended is the 3" thickness, as this provides enough foam for the body to contour into without overwhelming the sleepers. Make sure your topper is all memory foam; there should not be any support foam in a topper, just a mattress.

The memory foam mattress has seen a unique rise in recognition. Less conforming traditional foam - or latex - toppers can also be found but neither possess the viscoelastic heat sensitive property that makes memory foam so comfortable. Open celled memory foam is typically the preferred type. This means that the cells (air bubble) are not closed but are interconnected to one another. This is commonly referred to as 'open cell structure'. However, viscoelastic is more than this; the mattress is not only sensitive to weight but also to heat. The more heat that is applied the more the mattress will yield.

Viscoelastic foam conforms to the shape of the person sleeping on top of it. This means it provides far better support than other types of mattress and is extremely good at relieving pressure points, while still supporting areas like the lower back.

The Tempur-Pedic mattress was the very first of this type and remains the market leader to this day. There are many views as to the sleep quality of the mattress. The Tempurpedic mattress has a 5.25 lb density and sleeps a little more firm than some people like. If you can, try to compare at least two or three different brands before you buy to see what feels best for you. Just because you see the commercial everyday doesn't mean it's the best mattress for you, it just means that you are paying for heavy advertising costs when you purchase their bed.

Although many have enjoyed a better sleep on a memory foam mattress there are some who found that sleeping on one felt a lot warmer than sleeping on an inner spring mattress. One solution has been to introduce a new layer of high-density convoluted foam between the base foam block and the top viscoelastic foam. Some mattresses also utilize open celled memory foam which is much more efficient at air circulation and cooling.

Buying a new mattress is no small purchase. There are people who spend thousands of dollars on them, depending on the brand type and features. This is the general price range you can expect if you are purchasing a Sealy plush mattress, or maybe something similar from one of the other big names. The various brand names and all of the diverse combinations can make it quite a challenge to someone who has not done their homework. The best advice is to determine which type of mattress you need, the features you require, and then determine a budget. You don't have to be a millionaire to sleep comfortably, but given how much time you will spend in bed and the longevity f some higher end mattresses, they certainly can make worthwhile investments.

The best way to care for your memory foam mattress is by following a few broad maintenance rules. The primary thing you should do when you buy your memory foam mattress is to get a pad or cover to go along with it. This will assist to prevent your mattress from wearing out quickly. If you are the type of person who likes to eat or drink in bed or frequently have young children or pets in the bed, you can then protect it from liquid spills with a waterproof pad.

The best way to care for a foam mattress is to clean up any spills without delay, if you are lucky enough to be there when it happens. There are some reasons for the cause of this. First of all, if the spill has time to set, it will become a stain. The other reason is that it can cause mold to be formed inside the mattress if it is allowed to soak in. The chances of this are certainly decreased with a foam product, but it is better to be safe. Typically, mattress covers will be machine washable, but the mattress itself must be spot treated with warm water and a mild soap and allowed to air dry. Never dry clean memory foam products as this will degrade their quality and likely void your warranty.

Sometimes you may also be able to find cleaning instructions on the label of your mattress. At all times avoid using harsh chemicals as much as possible. Another good idea you may try is to use a vacuum attachment on your mattress surface occasionally to remove any dust and allergens. Hopefully with a little know how, and proper care, your mattress may very well last you a lifetime.
Another great feature of memory foam is that they have the characteristics of moving and adjusting along body lines as one tosses and turns in the bed and absorbing any movements rather than transferring them. This fact proves especially good when two people of different weights sleep together, if one partner is fidgety, or if both people have different schedules. If one tosses and turns while sleeping it will not disturb the partner as it would in a typical mattress. No longer do you have to deal with the rolling sensation that can occur when there are two people of dissimilar weights.



Memory Foam Mattress vs Latex Mattress - Which Is Best?


Memory foam mattress products are everywhere these days...tv, radio, newspapers and magazines, but are they really the best choice for a mattress?

Latex has been around for as long as rubber trees...not the latex mattress, but, at least the raw material.

So...what are the differences in the two and how do you know which might be the best suited for your new mattress? The following comparison should be of interest if you're considering either one.A memory foam mattress, by nature, is softer and more pliable than a latex mattress.Memory foam is temperature reactive. In other words, it will become softer, when you lay on it, and your body temperature starts to warm it up.The reverse is also true. When the memory foam mattress gets cold, it will become quite firm.

If your memory foam mattress is made of high quality, dense foam, you will have the best of both worlds. You won't have to buy a "hard" mattress to get the proper support for your body.To check for support, you should try to slide your hand under the small of your back, when lying on your back on a memory foam mattress. Don't raise up or roll to the side when doing this, you should be lying flat.

If you can easily slide your hand under the small of your back, the mattress isn't supporting you. You should probably check into a denser memory foam mattress.Density is directly proportionate to quality. The denser memory foam mattress is much more expensive to make and will last indefinitely.

Cheaper memory foam mattresses are made up of a lot of air and can break down in a matter of a 3 to 5 years. (or even sooner) While it may seem like a "good deal" to find a lower priced mattress, you'll be replacing it in a few years and won't have the good support you need either.

The thickness of the memory foam is also important. If it's too thin, you can bottom out and actually be laying on the HR (high resiliency) foam base material. The base foam is not meant to be laid on and will be uncomfortable.

If it's too thick, it will be too soft.

Because of the way a memory foam mattress "melts" away from the pressure of your body, it will spread your weight out evenly over the entire surface that's touching it.This even support is what makes the memory foam mattress so comfortable. It also greatly reduces the tossing and turning that so many people have a problem with at night.

On most other mattresses, you develop pressure points. These are places, usually around the hips and shoulders, where the circulation is greatly or completely cutoff.When your body senses this restriction, it signals your brain and the brain reacts by telling you to turn over.

Ideally, the memory foam should be about 3 1/2" to 6" thick. Latex mattresses have a unique feel, also. Imagine filling a mattress cover with jello. That's about the closest analogy to the feel of a latex mattress.

It's very supportive but also pretty firm. It will transfer a little bit more motion than memory foam.Many people like latex because they view it as a natural product and, therefore, they reason that it is healthier to sleep on.There are natural latex mattresses and processed latex mattresses, so you should check carefully on the label to make sure you are really getting a natural latex.

Latex is harvested from rubber trees in about the same way maple syrup is derived from maple trees. They tap into the tree and it oozes out.The latex is then processed according to the product it will be made into, which can be anything from tires to mattresses.

Some processes use petroleum or chemicals in manufacturing. Of course, this would produce a mattress that is not natural and, therefore, environmentally unfriendly. Natural latex is biodegradable.Latex is naturally hypoallergenic and anti-microbial. Dust mites, mold and fungus will have a hard time surviving on a latex mattress, so your allergies won't be irritated when you go to bed each night.

Another unique feature of latex is that it is almost indestructible. It will literally last for a lifetime, under normal circumstances.



Memory Foam Mattress Sleep Benefits and Selection Guide


Background:

Chances are that you first rested on a "Swedish" style mattress, also known as memory foam mattress, during one of your shopping sprees at the local mall. One's first experience resting on a memory foam mattress is that it has a unique "feel" that melds to and envelops your body as compared to traditional spring mattress. For those who prefer the "feel" of a memory foam mattress here is a brief history and selection guide so you, the consumer, can make intelligent purchasing decisions. Memory foam had its origins in the NASA space Program. Memory foam was initially designed for the Space program because of its unique ability to evenly distribute and absorb the G-force pressures experienced by astronauts. The technical term for Memory Foam is "visco-elastic" foam. The initial commercial application for Memory Foam was in the medical field for patients who had severe sores or had to be bed-ridden for long extended time.

How is Memory Foam Mattress made:

Memory Foam Mattress is made from polyurethane foam and is constructed of 2 key sections: 1) Memory Foam (top layer) is located at the top layer adjacent to the body in order to sense the pressure and contours of your body. The memory foam is the essential component that gives memory foam mattress its unique "feel." 2) Beneath the Memory Foam is a layer of High Density Foam. The role of the High Density Foam is to provide structural support. The bottom of the memory foam mattress is lined with "non-slip" material to reduce any horizontal movement when installed. A ventilated bottom also provides outstanding air circulation for the optimal temperature. The hybrid combination of a top layer Memory Foam with a bottom layer High Density Foam gives memory foam mattress its unique pressure sensing, body conforming characteristics and outstanding overall support.

How does Memory Foam Mattress differ from a traditional mattress:

A traditional spring mattress depends on finite number of springs to support your body. Unfortunately, the limited number of springs can only approximately adjust to your body. Often there will be pockets of space between your body and the traditional mattress which is unsupported. Memory Foam is a visco-elastic foam material and for comparison purposes can be thought of as having infinite number of tiny "springs" which supports your body to much greater detail than can be offered by a spring mattress.

What are the benefits of Memory Foam Mattress:

Better fit:

Memory Foam senses pressure and molds its shape perfectly to your body. You can think of Memory Foam Mattress as a custom mattress for your body. The benefit is that every part of your body will be evenly supported by a memory foam mattress. Memory Foam will adjust its shape to the fine contours of you body to the minutest detail and its "memory" characteristics help reduce extraneous movements.

Reduced movement: Memory Foam's visco-elastic properties greatly reduce unwanted movements and "bounce" caused by your partner's movements. If you have a partner who moves during the night, memory foam will "absorb" the unwanted movement so you remain undisturbed.

What to look for when selecting a memory foam mattress:

Memory Foam Thickness: The unique feel and fit of a memory foam mattress is characterized by the top layer of the mattress. It is recommended that one select a mattress with a 3" thickness memory foam. Although some thinner memory foams are available, they are simply too thin and often "bottom out" and unable to support properly. A 3" memory foam top layer will ensure that you get the optimal support for the lifetime of the product.

Memory Foam Density: The density of the memory foam is measured in pounds/cubic feet. It is recommended that one select memory foam with a 5 lb density. Although heavier, the 5 lb density will have a longer lifetime than a low density foam and also will have the optimal "firmness". A lower density foam mattress usually will feel too "soft."

Packaging: Proper packaging and shipping of a memory foam mattress is important. Look for one that has been Vacuum packed and is "rolled" instead of folded. The rolling process is superior to folding because of its gradual bending and minimizes any sharp folds to the mattress. Vacuum packing ensures that the mattress is free from debris and reduces any chemical odors since all residual air is removed from the packaging.



Memory Foam Mattress Purchasing Tips


Memory foam was developed by NASA in the 1970's, but it was made famous in the consumer market as topper pads. Later on in the 1990's, the memory foam mattress was established. From then till today, it has occupied a very prominent space in the mattress industry.

Sleeping on a memory foam mattress is considered good for people with back problems, arthritis, bone and joint problems. Memory foam mattresses are available in a number of sizes such as single, double, queen, king, California queen, California king and super king sizes. Some double memory foam mattresses have both a softer and harder side to meet the requirements of sleeping partners. Mostly, the density of a memory foam mattress is about five inches.

There are certain points that must be kept in mind while purchasing a memory foam mattress, so that you get a suitable mattress of your choice.

Selecting the right type of memory foam mattress is really a very important decision. These following tips may really prove helpful to you when buying one.

Mattress with Temperature Sensitivity

It is not necessary that all the mattresses available in the market are sensitive towards temperature. However, this feature of the mattress must not be underestimated as it is very important. This is the feature that makes a memory foam mattress unique, and absolutely comfortable.

While looking for a mattress, if you come across one that is adjustable to the temperature, do buy it. In a warmer environment this mattress will absorb the body heat. It will also soften up. Similarly, in a cooler environment it will get firmer.

Mattress with the Correct Thickness

The thickness of the mattress is one of the important things to consider. It is the thickness of the memory foam that matters when buying the correct memory foam mattress. The thickness of the memory foam can be defined as the total weight of the mattress, calculated in a cubic foot of memory foam. For instance, if you want to cut a piece of memory foam into a 13×13×13 in a cube shape, and then you weigh it. Thus, the resulting weight will be counted as the thickness of the mattress.

You may come across various theories relating to the correct thickness of a memory foam mattress. But it is always better to select a mattress with the thickness between 5.3 to 5.9 lb. This is because a memory foam mattress with the thickness lower than 5.3 will not be able to provide proper support to your lower back, shoulders and hips.

Likewise, if the thickness of the memory foam mattress is more than 5.9, it will be too thick to provide any proper support.

Mattress with a Sufficient Top Layer

While going to buy a memory foam mattress, it is important that you select one that has sufficient memory foam on the top layer. Generally, it is best to opt for a mattress with 3.5 inches of memory foam as its top layer.

If the layer is too thin, in this case, it will be like sleeping on polyurethane foam. It is quite possible that you will not have comfortable sleep on it.

By keeping these points in mind, you can easily purchase the correct memory foam mattress.



Best Memory Foam Topper For Couples


Let's face it, the best memory foam topper for couples is the one that makes them both sleep comfortably at night, isn't it?

If you're a couple who had very different ideas about what a comfortable mattress is, it's going to be difficult to compromise on a mattress and a mattress topper can be the same.

There are many different ways to come to an agreement that's a win/win for both of you and that's what you're about to discover.

Let's assume that you're a woman who likes a fluffy pillow top type of feel and your husband has a bad back and has been told that he needs to sleep on a very firm mattress. How's that going to work for both of you?

First of all, I don't agree with the notion that a hard mattress is good for your back, but that's another article.

What your husband really needs is support in the lumbar area to help him sleep without back pain and that can be achieved by selecting the proper density of mattress or mattress topper.

A memory foam topper should be at least 4 lb. density in order to give proper support. If you can consider buying a memory foam mattress, you should look for a density of 5 lbs. plus.

Anyway, this density will afford some back support for the person with the bad back while giving the other person the softer feel that they prefer.

Another way to compromise, if you have a king size bed is to buy a twin mattress topper for the 1/2 of the bed you sleep on and let your spouse have the mattress without a topper on it.

This is kind of making the best of it while giving each person exactly what they want.

A memory foam topper isn't meant to be a cure all for a totally worn out mattress. While I think that the topper will make some difference for any situation, it won't make a new mattress out of an old tired one.



Ways to Choose a Memory Foam Topper


Just because your mattress is now uncomfortable to sleep on, does not mean you need to throw it out and buy a new one. What you need is to simply top it off with a comfortable topper. One of the best solutions is memory foam topper. Using it, you can bring back life and comfort on your old mattress without breaking the bank. Here are some ways in choosing the best memory foam topper for you.

Identify Which Memory Foam Topper Suits You

Memory mattress toppers are different from one another. Before you keep right on at buying the best one for you, you must first identify the following:

  • how big is your mattress
  • how thick do you need it to be
  • what density do you prefer

Sizes vary even for foam mattress toppers and the choices range from king size down to the smallest. However, if you cannot find any of these as suitable for your mattress, go for custom-made memory mattress toppers. These are on offer at online stores or even in your favorite mattress shop.

You can also choose its thickness. It is entirely up to you if you want it thinner or thicker. The choices commonly range from 2 inches to 4 inches. Some buyers even choose memory mattress toppers as thick as eight inches. When it comes to density, again, this is your full discretion. You can choose firmer or denser memory mattress toppers depending on what you want.

Find the Best Memory Foam Topper Provider

There are not a few choices when it comes to foam mattress topper provider. You can find others online while others in physical stores. To decide which of these providers are best, research for feedbacks about them. Commonly, good responses mean the store lives up to its claim and more. Negative feedback on the other hand means a red flag. If you want to make sure that you spend your money on a worthwhile store, choose the one with the best feedbacks.

Stay within Your Budget

If you are strapped for cash, do not worry. There are memory foam mattress toppers priced reasonably. Some are so low you can buy two of them even with a meager budget. While other memory foam toppers cost hundreds of pounds, there are those that are cheaper without sacrificing quality.

Look for Added Service

Mattress foam toppers can be too big to lug around. Therefore, if you do not have the right vehicle or extra money to pay some delivery service, better let the provider to do the logistics for you. Ask them for shipping as most offer this service for a little extra cost. These providers have better equipment and ability for such huge deliveries.

Choosing a memory mattress topper is not as difficult as you perceive it to be. All you need is to follow these simple steps and you can have your memory foam toppers with little to no effort at all.