Memory Foam Mattress Guide

How memory foam feels, where it performs well, and what to check before buying.

Memory foam is a viscoelastic polyurethane foam designed to soften with pressure and then recover its shape. Different formulations and densities produce very different mattresses.

Strengths

Common strengths include close contouring, strong motion isolation and quiet performance.

Tradeoffs

Potential tradeoffs include heat retention, slower movement, softer edges and quicker wear in lower-density foams.

Open-cell foam

Open-cell structures are designed to increase internal airflow, but cooling still depends on the complete mattress.

How to compare

Look at layer thickness, firmness, foam density when disclosed, cover design, trial terms and independent performance testing.