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Memory foam was developed by NASA in the late 1960s. Astronauts at the time were complaining of discomfort during lift-off, which, as you can imagine, is an incredibly forceful process considering the spacecraft needs to be hurtled beyond the Earth’s atmosphere. NASA began researching ways to improve the aircraft cushion and thus astronaut safety. The answer turned out to be memory foam.
Memory foam has a specialised open-cell solid structure and is created by feeding gas into a polymer matrix. It is supportive, matching pressure applied against it, and can slowly spring back to its original shape. In addition to being used by NASA, it has also been used in sports equipment, medical settings, shoes, and of course, mattresses.
Mattresses that are made from memory foam are denser than traditional foam mattresses. This makes them quite heavy, but they are also incredibly supportive. Memory foam is known to help relieve pressure points and even prevent bedsores. The third generation of memory foam was released in 2006 and includes gels that prevent body heat from being trapped. This allows users of the best memory foam mattresses to sleep cool by preventing overheating during the night.
Recommended memory foam mattresses
Some of our favourite memory mattress brands are:
Benefits of memory foam mattresses
Relieve pressure points
Memory foam contours to your body and provides even bodyweight distribution. The result is that pressure points are relieved of stress, so you can rest comfortably. Hospitals and nursing homes have even been known to use the best memory foam mattresses to reduce the rate of bedsores in patient populations!
Our top picks for December 2024
9.9
9.9
Hybrid
Reduce dust mites
Because memory foam is incredibly dense, it reduces the risk for dust mite infestation. Compare that to normal, innerspring mattresses, which have been found to host up to 10 million dust mites. The lack of large open spaces and fluffy construction mean that memory foam is an unfriendly environment for dust mites. The best memory foam mattress will also come with a mattress cover to offer even more protection against dust mites and other household allergens.
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Hybrid & memory foam models available
Suitable for all types of sleepers
Top-rated by reputable online publications
Zero motion transfer
Temperature control could be improved
Not the greatest edge support
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CertiPUR Certified foam
Supports all sleep positions
365-day sleep trial & forever warranty
Free named day delivery
Limited customer support availability
Not organic
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Over 100 varieties of mattresses
Versatile price range to fit every budget
Hypoallergenic and antibacterial materials
Innovative design & technology
Suitable for all types of sleepers
Fee for old mattress removal
No 24/7 customer support
Prevent motion disruption
Whether you’re sleeping with a partner or with pets, a memory foam mattress will relieve you of the common problem of motion disturbance. The memory foam absorbs motion, whether it’s from someone getting into or out of bed or simply rolling over, so you won’t be awoken by their movements.
Support different sleep positions
Certain mattresses are known to be better for back sleepers, side sleepers, or stomach sleepers. The best memory foam mattresses do a good job of accommodating every sleep position since it molds to your body.
Work with adjustable beds
Because memory foam is so flexible and is designed with contouring in mind, it is a good choice for adjustable bases. If you want to raise the head or foot of the bed, a memory foam mattress can easily make these adjustments possible thanks to their compatibility with adjustable bed frames.
Our favourite memory foam mattresses
The best memory foam mattress will use higher density memory foam, be constructed using the latest memory foam technology, and will make use of multiple layers to provide you with ultimate comfort while you sleep. It’s not always easy to say which is the best memory foam mattress when we compare our top recommendations, but that’s just because our favourites are all so dreamy! Deciding which is the best memory foam mattress for you will come down to several factors, including mattress size, your budget, personal preferences in terms of layers, and other specifics. Read our unbiased reviews for all of the details so that you can feel confident in your decision!
Nectar
Nectar memory foam mattresses are constructed with distinctive layers, each with its own special role. The top layer is an adaptive cooling layer which is designed to keep air circulating so you can sleep comfortably. Next comes a smart memory foam mattress layer which again works to circulate air while contouring to your body at the same time. The pressure-relieving memory foam layer is the middle layer and is designed to support your body while cradling pressure points. A 7-zone supported base forms the fourth layer, which is a high-density memory foam layer designed to provide a firm, supportive base. Finally, the positioning base material keeps your mattress from moving on your bed frame. Nectar mattresses are available in five sizes. You can easily purchase the mattress online and it will be delivered to you. You’ll enjoy a generous 365-night sleep trial along with a lifetime warranty.
Memory Foam Warehouse
If you love memory foam, Memory Foam Warehouse just might be your idea of heaven! This brand is the leading mattress manufacturer in the UK, featuring over 100 varieties of memory foam mattresses. Mattress lines they offer include Essentials, CoolMax, Zen, Classicpedic, 4G Aircool, and Komfi. They range in price from the super affordable Essentials mattress starting at £89, to their luxury Komfi line’s premium price point. Given the many varieties of memory foam mattresses available, you’ll be certain to find one that perfectly suits your needs. Most mattresses come with a 100-night free trial, 10-year warranty, and delivery within 7-10 days.
