What is Memory Foam all about?

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you have probably heard of Memory Foam Mattresses, also referred to by the brand name Tempurpedic mattresses and their purported benefits. Many of are naturally skeptical of the ‘next big thing’ that is supposed to improve our quality of life and naturally beg the question “Is it really worth it?” or “What can memory foam do for me?”

With the vast and expansive amount of information available on the internet, one can gain a better understanding of the product and make an informed decision based on personal needs. First off, what is memory foam made of? Memory foam is actually polyurethane foam with a special additive that adds heat sensitive and elastic like capabilities. What this means to you is that the memory foam mattress will respond to the heat of your body and contour to your shape.
The heat and weight sensitive foams mean your heavier areas will sink further into the bed to keep your spine in a straighter, more aligned position. In a coil/spring mattress, the hips and shoulders are forced up at an unnatural angle that places most pressure on the lower back which is where most people report discomfort. In the foam beds, the design allows the hips and shoulders to sink in, while supporting the lower back.

Perhaps the most proven and lauded benefit is the pressure reducing capabilities of memory foam. This is the only benefit that has been medically proven and is very significant. Memory foam was first utilized in the health care industry for this very reason. Side by side studies comparing visco-foam, basic foam, coil, and air mattresses and their relative ability to reduce pressure sores on the bedridden put visco foam (memory foam) in first place. The unique cell structure distributes pressure evenly across the surface of the bed, not placing all the strain on hips and lower back.

Another common concern seems to be heat retention in the mattress. This was a problem with earlier memory foam as they were designed in a closed cell, flat slab design that allowed no air flow. Now mid-layers are usually convoluted which allows air to circulate. Using a platform style slatted foundation can also improve air flow if that is a concern for you.

While no one mattress is going to satisfy everyone, the quick popularity and high satisfaction ratio combined with today’s lower prices certainly make it an option worth considering. Remember, 4 lb-6 lb densities are considered the best value and just make sure you have a return period if you are new to memory foam. Then, rest easy and enjoy the newest mattress technology!

Mattresses for Allergy Sufferers

Anyone that is allergic to dust mites, or caring for someone that is, knows that at times it can feel like there is no way to avoid them. They are everywhere! Dust mites live in mattresses, bedding, pillows, carpet, curtains, clothes, you name it.

For many allergy sufferers and those with respiratory problems, this poses not only an annoyance but significant danger to health. Mites can live of almost anything organic, which means cotton, wool, bamboo, food particles, and (their favorite) shed skin cells. The basics of allergy control consist of removing cloth drapes o blinds, wall tapestries, replacing carpet with wood or linoleum, and using synthetic sheets.

There are also mattress encasements that try to prevent the dust mites from migrating through you mattress up to you. Most people however, don't give the actual mattress much thought.Inside a traditional mattress, you have fluffy layers of cottony fabric and a wide open space in the middle that fosters a warm, moist environment perfect for mites.

Fortunately, there are alternatives. Latex mattress and memory foam are very effective because they are not a hospitable home for mites. The cell structure doesn't promote nesting and is not a source of food for the mites. Air mattresses also provide a system not supportive of mites, just opt for a limited pillowtop, or a memory foam/latex topped model.

Latex mattresses are perhaps the best for sensitive people and those with allergies as it is all natural. It doesn't contain harsh chemicals or give off an offensive smell like memory foam

What are the different mattress sizes?

First off, all mattresses in the US are made to standard sizes. The main mattress sizes that can be found in today's market are Twin, Twin Long, Full, Full Long, Queen, King, and California King. Mattress manufacturers make them to standard specifications, so the same size of mattress should not very more than an inch or so from place to place. Make sure to know what kind of bed you have or are looking for before shopping.

A regular or Eastern king measures 76" x 80" and is essentially two twin long mattresses. This is how you get "Split King" adjustable beds. A California king is 4" longer but 4" narrower (72 x 84"). So basically, if you want width, go with a regular king, if you are tall and need length, go with a California King.

Queen size is 60" x 80" and is usually sufficient for couples. Queen is the most popular size in America right now.

Full size beds are also recommended for single people. They measure about 53-54" wide and 75" long. There is also a full XL size that is 54" x 80".

For a single person, a twin or twin long will often provide enough space. A twin measures about 75 inches long and about 39 inches wide, which will work for an average size person under 5'7" or so. Taller individuals will feel more comfortable with the Twin XL length, which is 80 inches. A twin XL is half of a regular king size bed.

Also, you can order specialty sizes (like RV queens, or any other sizes)from many companies as well. Foam mattresses, like latex or memory foam mattresses, are great with custom sizes. Even Sleep Number beds and other air mattresses are available in special sizes, like RV queens.