Foam mattresses have increased significantly in popularity over the past several years due to a combination of extraordinary comfort and nearly perfect support qualities. Although memory foam was developed more than 40 years ago through the NASA Ames Research Center, it has only taken off recently as a mattress component due to a decrease in material and manufacturing costs. So what is the difference between a memory foam mattress and a visco elastic foam mattress? The answer is that “visco elastic foam mattress” is a technical term used to describe “memory foam.” In other words they are one in the same. Now that we know these terms can be used interchangeably, it’s important to discuss the specific qualities that give a visco elastic memory foam mattress it’s “memory.”
Foam mattresses excel at conforming to your body – a function that is referred to a mattress’s memory. The degree of density with which the mattress is constructed influences the degree of memory it will have. In general, mattresses that are denser will perform better than those that are less dense. Of course, there is a direct relationship between how dense a mattress is and its final cost. The reason a higher density foam mattress or even a visco elastic memory foam mattress topper costs more is that they tend to conform better to the body and are slower to rebound from their memory state. Perhaps the most notable reason is that a denser mattress will provide more support and will generally last longer than a less expensive version.
Most experts recommend purchasing a memory foam mattress with no less than 3 pounds of density, as mattresses with a lower density will simply not give sufficient support. After all, proper support is the number one reason why people choose a foam mattress over a traditional spring or coil mattress. Another important consideration when purchasing a foam mattress is that they tend to hold on to body heat well, keeping some sleepers too warm. This is particularly true with a higher density mattress, so be sure you have the option of trying out your mattress for at least 30 days to evaluate it for yourself. Another important consideration are comforters, blankets and other bedding, since some materials like down or wool can increase the warmth even further. Another separate concern for some sleepers is the potential for memory foam mattresses to “off-gas” or release chemical odors when new. While the odor generally decreases quickly, many sleepers remain sensitive to it. Again, be sure to try out your mattress before committing to it for the long haul.
A common companion purchase for those buying a memory foam mattress is a memory foam pillow. As with mattresses, there are several variations of memory foam pillows to suit individual preferences and sleeping habits, so be sure to choose the one that bests suits you. I have purchased to two types of memory foam pillows and prefer the denser traditional looking pillow, since I tend to sleep mostly on my back. I have had this particular pillow for about 5 years and it is just as supportive as the day I purchased it.
While foam mattresses are generally more expensive than traditional spring mattresses, the lifespan of a foam mattress is significantly greater. For example, most spring mattresses are rated between just 5-7 years while a quality visco elastic mattress can last up to 20 years before needing to be replaced. Apart from being a better investment than a traditional mattress, a foam mattress will also provide better support and superior comfort.
