Advantages & Disadvantages of Memory Foam Use

Possible Health Advantages

• Memory foam is used in hospitals to prevent bed sores in patients. It is good for people who have certain physical conditions like arthritis and bursitis.

  Memory foam cradles the sleeper's body and most sleepers toss and turn less during the night on memory foam mattresses. It is said to be especially good for side sleepers, who tend to have back problems. It is also claimed to be better for overweight persons. Many couples find memory foam helpful because each side of the mattress adapts individually.

  Memory foam is hygienic because it is hypoallergenic and antimicrobial and offers nowhere for bed bugs to breed.

Possible Health Disadvantages

• Some people say it is harder to change position because they sink into the foam. A small percentage of people find it can cause "pins and needles" because the nighttime immobility reduces circulation. Stomach and back sleepers may be better with a firmer mattress.

  There are a number of complaints about the chemical offgassing from new memory foam, which is said to be worse than other kinds of mattresses. Most complaints about health issues with memory foam seem to be due to toxic chemicals. Latex foam varieties may be better for those sensitive to chemicals.

  It does allow dust mites in the cell holes (they can be prevented with a cover).

Practical Advantages and Disadvantages

• Memory foam is said to warmer in winter than sprung mattresses. Good quality memory foam is said to last longer than sprung mattresses (although cheaper foam may not). Like a futon it can be rolled up and stored in smaller spaces than traditional mattresses and can also be moved through more constricted spaces such as tight stairs. However it is heavier per square foot. Memory foam is more expensive than sprung mattresses.

  It is sometimes claimed that memory foam needs no maintenance -- it is unnecessary to turn the mattress because it airs naturally. This may be true if it is placed on slats or box springs but on a solid wooden platform moisture can collect under the memory foam and cause mold, so it is recommended to turn and air the mattress every three months.

Does It Work for You?

• The best way to figure out if memory foam works for you is to try it out in stores. Memory foam comes in a variety of different formulas and densities and actually lying down on a sample is the best way to tell if it will be comfortable for you.