3 Key Technical Considerations About the Best Memory Foam Mattress
Choosing the best memory foam mattress can be challenging because of the wide range of selections available from thinner toppers to thicker mattresses with varying prices, comfort, and support, among other considerations. But instead of being stumped by your choices, you can make a shortlist of your best choices by looking at the technical aspects of a standard memory foam product.
Foam Density
Myth busted: Density does not affect feel. Instead, density affects durability. For example, a 5-pound per cubic foot memory foam mattress will be more durable than its 3-pound counterpart – the former will outlast the latter by 10 years, on average.
You will obviously want to purchase the thicker mattress for durability purposes. But you can also choose a thinner mattress, if money is an issue, without making substantial sacrifices in comfort and support.
Buyer beware: Ask about the details of the memory foam mattress’ density before buying. This is because many manufacturers will advertise a 5-pound memory foam but it actually just comprises the first inch; the following layers are just 2-pound or 3-pound memory foams.
mmHg
This is the unit of measurement used in the mattress industry for determining the mattress’ reaction against pressure applied on it. In general, a low mmHg contributes to better blood circulation but keep in mind that there is a limit to how low it can be. Blood circulation will be adversely affected at approximately 30 mmHg or more.
According to healthcare experts, 32 mmHg or lower provides pressure relief. The rule of thumb: More pressure relief equals less pressure points equals better sleep since there is less tossing and turning.
Look for a mattress with a 12.43 mmHg at 200 pounds. Ask the salesperson for alternatives but this is considered as the optimum mmHg level for memory foam mattresses.
Foam Indentation Load Deflection
This refers to the amount of pressure necessary to make an indentation on the memory foam, whether it is a memory foam body pillow or mattress. Most, if not all, memory foam mattresses for residential and commercial uses are rated between 10 and 16 ILD.
Tip: Look for a higher ILD since it means a better mattress. Just be sure to consider the other two factors in choosing the mattress that will suit your needs.
Of course, the proof of any mattress is in the quality of sleep enjoyed on it. You should ideally test the mattress in the store – lie on it for a few minutes in various sleeping positions to determine its comfort and support – but you can also ask about the store’s return policy.
Foam Density
Myth busted: Density does not affect feel. Instead, density affects durability. For example, a 5-pound per cubic foot memory foam mattress will be more durable than its 3-pound counterpart – the former will outlast the latter by 10 years, on average.
You will obviously want to purchase the thicker mattress for durability purposes. But you can also choose a thinner mattress, if money is an issue, without making substantial sacrifices in comfort and support.
Buyer beware: Ask about the details of the memory foam mattress’ density before buying. This is because many manufacturers will advertise a 5-pound memory foam but it actually just comprises the first inch; the following layers are just 2-pound or 3-pound memory foams.
mmHg
This is the unit of measurement used in the mattress industry for determining the mattress’ reaction against pressure applied on it. In general, a low mmHg contributes to better blood circulation but keep in mind that there is a limit to how low it can be. Blood circulation will be adversely affected at approximately 30 mmHg or more.
According to healthcare experts, 32 mmHg or lower provides pressure relief. The rule of thumb: More pressure relief equals less pressure points equals better sleep since there is less tossing and turning.
Look for a mattress with a 12.43 mmHg at 200 pounds. Ask the salesperson for alternatives but this is considered as the optimum mmHg level for memory foam mattresses.
Foam Indentation Load Deflection
This refers to the amount of pressure necessary to make an indentation on the memory foam, whether it is a memory foam body pillow or mattress. Most, if not all, memory foam mattresses for residential and commercial uses are rated between 10 and 16 ILD.
Tip: Look for a higher ILD since it means a better mattress. Just be sure to consider the other two factors in choosing the mattress that will suit your needs.
Of course, the proof of any mattress is in the quality of sleep enjoyed on it. You should ideally test the mattress in the store – lie on it for a few minutes in various sleeping positions to determine its comfort and support – but you can also ask about the store’s return policy.
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