What Is the Difference Between Memory Foam & a Featherbed?

Mattress Considerations

• Memory foam mattresses are available as a complete bedroom set, but they can be expensive. Many consumers rely on toppers as a means to replenish the bed's surface, which can become lumpy or indented over the years.

Memory Foam Features

• Memory foam toppers offer an inexpensive solution to replacing an entire mattress set. When a consumer lays on the foam, it adjusts to the body's contours creating a cradle effect. Body joints receive ample support during sleep, contributing to less movement throughout the night for a quality night's rest. Allergy sufferers have the opportunity of purchasing hypoallergenic foam toppers that use a cotton cover surrounding the foam. The removable cover is washable.

Feather Bed Features

• Feather-filled mattress toppers offer soft cushioning for a cozy feeling. The feather composition allows air circulation throughout the material, contributing to a cool feeling across the sleeper's body. The inexpensive feather bed's snug feeling also minimizes movement during the night.

Memory Foam Disadvantages

• A major drawback to memory foam is its tendency to overheat the sleeper. The foam material absorbs the body's natural heat, causing the sleeper to feel hot. Additionally, the foam will form indentations rather than springing back after repeated use. Consumer Search states that some consumers have complained about a chemical smell emanating from the foam after the initial purchase. Airing out the foam topper before placing it on the bed is recommended by Consumer Search.

Feather Bed Disadvantages

• Though feathers are a durable material, they are prone to clumping. The feather bed should be shaken to distribute the feathers uniformly throughout the topper's surface. Over time, the feathers break down from a sleeper's weight, which flattens the bedding and reduces comfort. Allergy sufferers can use the feather bed with a cotton cover, but many people have severe allergies to feathers.