Memory Foam Beds Bad For You?
Whether you are on the market for a new mattress or mattress topper, memory foam is a term that has probably come up very often. While there are quality memory foam toppers and mattresses on the market today that provide for an excellent rest, there are also those that are sub par. Finding a quality memory foam that will relieve pressure and spread it evenly throughout the body while still proving to be durable will promise you the best sleep. Because this foam invention is very unique, it has unique benefits in the comparison of standard mattresses. Not all memory foam beds are created equal, because of this some toppers will lack the benefits that others promise to offer.
While memory foam was developed in 1971 for space explorers working with NASA, it did not hit the consumer market until the late 1990′s. It was first introduced as topper pads and later was designed to construct memory foam mattresses. Since the introduction of these mattresses, they have become the fastest growing segment in the mattress industry. While many manufacturing companies are braving this competitive market, several of them lack the quality and density that is necessary to be ergonomic for the human body. The thickness, material and density all contribute to the quality of a mattress or a topper. Knowing what to look for will assist consumers in making an informed purchase.
The initial release of memory foam under went several tests of quality and durability. While the pads proved to spread pressure and respond cooperatively with changes in temperature, it was unsuccessful in standing the test of time. Tempur-Pedic was the first industrial company on the market to realize the potential of memory foam, and thus developed their own foam titled Tempur. First released in the hospital setting, patients noticed that they not only slept better through the night, but also had less back pain and felt refreshed in the morning. With this, the Tempur-Pedic came to life, and became the most highly demanded mattress on the market. While these Tempur-Pedic memory foam mattresses were the best on the market, they carried a hefty price tag.
While the popularity rose for memory foam, so did those who manufactured it. As stated previously, the quality of foams are not created equally. Products differ significantly when made of 3 to 5 pounds of density, and includes not only the feel but also the durability. When you are considering buying a topper or mattress, knowing the specifications to look for will get you the best product for your needs.
Memory foam conforms to the body better than any material on the market today including latex, cotton and wool. This conforming reduces pressure points and shapes to the body like a glove. Because this foam is not manufactured or designed to be supportive, toppers are the best design on the market when layered over a firm, supportive material. These toppers can be used over your existing mattress and are far more affordable than purchasing an entirely new mattress. The memory foam cells will then deform when pressure is applied making it a perfect fit to any body type. At lower temperatures, the toppers will be firmer, and higher temperature will make it more soft and conforming.
Noticeably inexpensive pads should be avoided at all costs. These pads are generally made of lower density memory foam or layered with another, less expensive material. The topper pad is the least expensive option on the market today and can easily be replaced after four to five years. For thickness, look for mattresses or pads with at least 3-inches of medium density foam. The density should range between 4 and 5 pounds, as they will provide a comfortable sleep and adequate pressure relief.
Search the Internet for quality memory foam toppers and mattresses with a supportive core. While they will not be the least expensive investment you have made to your home, they will be one you will truly appreciate after one night’s sleep. Stop waking up sore and unrested, and purchase a quality topper or mattresses today.