What Makes a Memory Foam Mattress Different from a Regular Mattress?

One of the most alluring aspects of memory foam is that is molds itself to the sleeper’s body and creates an imprint, which makes one feel as though the mattress is literally made to fit. For some, the use of memory foam creates an incredibly uncomfortable way to sleep but for others, especially those who tend to toss and turn throughout the night and suffer from back pain caused by a stiff unyielding mattress, memory foam is the solution to sleeping issues. For me, memory foam has worked wonders and after using memory foam for the past few years, I can safely say that the back problems I suffered for so long as a result of a too-firm mattress are gone. Again though, memory foam is not for everyone and even some people I’ve known with back problems felt the problem was exaggerated after using a memory foam mattress.

Unlike a regular mattress that one buys either because it is firm or soft, a memory foam mattress does not come with these distinctions. Instead, since it molds itself to the contour of the sleeper’s body, it creates (and comes with) a blend of softness from the actual foam as well as the needed firmness that is the result of the mold. It offers a consistent feel each night, which is something that is not true with a traditional mattress that eventually gets saggy in the middle or gets softer in certain spots. A memory foam mattress is also different in the way it literally feels as you sleep since it tends to retain heat. Supposedly, the fact that it retains this heat is part of what makes it good for achy muscles, sore necks, and bad backs but one drawback that you don’t have with a traditional mattress is that you don’t feel stifled. One of the only complaints I have about memory foam, in fact, is that I get really hot and sometimes have to actually create a new imprint so I can get comfortable. This might sound worse than it is, but for those who live in especially hot climates, you’ll want to make sure you’re aware of this before you decide to invest in a memory foam mattress.

When the word “invest” is used in conjunction with memory foam, it’s well-meant. Memory foam mattresses tend to be quite a bit more expensive than a regular or traditional mattress, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, a memory foam mattress is going to last quite a bit longer than a traditional mattress and although you’re putting more money down at first, in the end it will save you money. I was going through at least one mattress per year, especially with my back problems and at this point, I can’t see myself having to buy a new memory foam mattress for many years to come. It’s very durable and although it’s incredibly heavy (thank goodness I don’t have to move it-they are far heavier than traditional mattresses) it’s one of the best investments I’ve made. I also think for those with serious back or neck problems, it might cut down on the visits to the chiropractor. When looking at prices for memory foam mattresses, don’t think with your pocketbook. It’s going to be worth the expense to go with memory foam and if you’re like me and suffer from back or neck pain, you’ll thank me for suggesting memory foam. It’s a lifesaver and worth every penny.

As an endnote, I must say that I have to laugh when I think about how I first heard about memory foam. On a commercial, they actually said memory foam was created by NASA, a fact that although it sounds like a gimmick to make memory foam seem more “futuristic” than it is, is actually true. Memory foam was originally conceived to mold to the form of astronauts as they dealt with the sudden shift in gravity. From what I have read, however, this was how memory foam got its start, but it was never actually used in space and instead has taken over the mattress market. No matter where it’s used, it’s better than a traditional spring mattress and despite the extra cost, it can save a lot of money down the road and a lot of pain.