A Guide to Selecting a Memory Foam Pad

Write down the size of your mattress. Outside of toddler beds such as crib mattresses, the modern mattress industry offers five mattress sizes. These include twin, full (or double), queen, king and California king. Before shopping for a mattress pad, know the size of your mattress.

Check your mattress for dips and other soft spots as a memory foam pad will not correct these malformations. Memory foam pads are designed to cushion a firm mattress. If the mattress is already soft or has dips due to excessive use, however, Healthy Foundations suggests buying a new mattress.

Select a memory foam pad with a density level of 4 lbs. Memory foam pads and mattresses are measured by their density. Basically, the higher the density, the longer it takes for the foam to conform to your body. If the pad has low density, the pad may be too soft. In its article "Memory Foam Mattress Topper Pad Buying Guide," Healthy Foundations recommends a foam pad density of 4 lbs. to respond to your body without too much give.

Select the appropriate thickness of the memory foam pad. Thickness typically ranges from 1 to 4 inches. Those with back problems may want to select a 2-inch pad, as it provides a softer feel with ample back support. Pads measuring 3 to 4 inches, while providing a significantly softer feel, eventually lose support, which may be a downside for those with back or neck problems.