How to Buy a Memory Foam Mattress
The days of counting sheep ended when a new generation of mattresses using memory foam technology improved beauty rest. Before you buy one, make like Goldilocks and test different models until you find one that's just right.
Up next in Beds & Mattresses (13 videos)
You, too, can become a mattress professional -- and get a good night's sleep -- with the advice in this Howcast video series.
You Will Need
- Mattress store
- Salesperson
- Time
Steps
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Step 1
Start trying mattresses
Go to your local mattress store and start trying out the mattresses. Comfort rules when you buy a memory foam mattress, so listen to the salesman's spiel, read the labels, but above all, take time to stretch out and see how it feels.
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Many people with back pain report memory foam's conforming quality allows for better sleep.
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Step 2
Consider warmth
Consider the warmth factor before buying. Memory foam mattresses retain body heat, which may affect your comfort level.
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Step 3
Look at density
Look at density levels, keeping in mind that high-quality memory foam mattresses usually have a density rating of four pounds or higher. The denser the foam the less your body will sink.
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Side-sleepers may especially benefit from memory foam mattresses which enhance spine alignment.
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Step 4
Sniff it out
Sniff the mattress for chemical odors often associated with memory foam mattresses. Odors should fade within a few weeks, if you are willing to give it the time.
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Step 5
Ask for hypoallergenic models
Ask about hypoallergenic or antibacterial models if you suffer from allergies.
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Step 6
Prepare to open the wallet wide
Prepare to open the wallet wide to purchase a memory foam mattress, expecting a high-quality queen-size mattress to run up to $2,000.
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Step 7
Add a topper
Add a less expensive memory foam topper to an existing mattress if you're not ready to shell out the big bucks. When you finally get that perfect mattress or topper home, look forward to years of sweet dreams.
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Memory foam was designed for NASA to improve airplane seat cushioning.
