Memory Foam Mattresses also known as Visco Elastic Foam Mattresses have gained enormous popularity in the last few years and with good reason.
As far as comfort goes Memory foam is second to none. It provides full body support that can make a world of difference to people who suffer from back pain or arthritis. In fact it is the mattress of choice for many hospitals and rehabilitation centers around the world. With it’s ability to mould to your body shape memory foam is ideal when you have a light sleeping partner as it tends to reduce the amount you move around during sleep. On top of this it is also hypoallergenic and anti bacterial. Memory foam mattresses are also very durable.
On the down side it has to be stated that they do retain body heat more than many other mattresses and eventually they will lose their elasticity. The other major drawback for most people is the price. A good memory foam mattress will set you back over $2000. When you haven’t used a memory foam mattress before this can seem quite a lot to invest.
There is however a really good alternative. Instead of going out and spending such a large sum without really knowing what you’re getting you can opt to try out memory foam in the form of a Mattress pad. These mattress toppers come in all standard bed sizes and a range of different thicknesses. They can be placed directly on top of your old mattress and will give you the experience of a memory foam mattress without the expense. On top of a hard mattress they will give increased comfort and paradoxically on a soft mattress they will give extra support.
It needs to be said though that they can’t work miracles. If your original mattress is in poor condition the memory foam mattress pad is not going to make it feel like a new mattress.
Many owners have noticed that their new mattress has a rather unpleasant chemical odor to it. This is quite standard and will disappear over time. It is worthwhile airing the mattress for a number of days before you use it. This will greatly reduce the smell before you sleep on it.
As for the cost of a good mattress topper prices start as low as $60. Some mattress pads can go up to $600 but personally the added benefit gained compared to a $150 pad doesn’t seem to make it worth the extra.
