Memory foam mattresses are a great option for finding the right balance of comfort and support while you sleep. Once you've decided on a mattress with the right firmness, you'll want to make sure that you have all of the information to take care of your new bed. Here's everything you need to know:

What is Memory Foam?

Memory foam was developed by NASA's Ames Research Center in 1966 to improve the safety of aircraft cushions. Consisting mostly of polyurethane, memory foam was developed specifically to respond to body heat. This allows it to contour snugly around a body during the night and then spring back to its original shape when it's not in use.

Because of the foam's ability to use heat retention to change the shape of the foam, overheating can sometimes be a concern. However, newer memory foam mattresses include special gel formulas that keep the mattress feeling cool and wick away moisture. Be sure to ask your sleep expert at Star Furniture about gel foam with cooling abilities!

When NASA released the technology to the public, it was used in the medical sector and then for mattresses. Now memory foam can be found in bedding, pillows, shoes, and much more. The price for a memory foam mattress has significantly decreased since it was first released, making this new technology accessible to many people.

Support the Memory Foam Mattress

Because a foam mattress can contour around any surface, it is important to ensure that the mattress rests on a good, solid base. Ask your sleep expert at Star to help you find a foundation or box spring that uses a solid piece of support or a slatted platform base with slats no more than 3" apart. If the slats are too thin or placed too far apart, your mattress may be sinking through the slats. 

Adjustable bases are designed to properly support a memory foam mattress while also allowing you to sit up or recline comfortably. These bases are a great option if you like to read, work, or watch TV from bed. 

Rotate the Memory Foam Mattress

Although most memory foam mattresses do not need to be flipped (and aren't designed to flip), you can rotate the mattress by 180 degrees. This ensures that the mattress is used evenly and will prevent impressions from forming over time. This is especially important when sleeping with a partner.

Most mattresses should be rotated every six months, but if you are using an adjustable base then it would help to rotate it every three months. This simple task can greatly increase the lifespan of your bed!

Clean the Memory Foam Mattress

Because you spend 8+ hours every day on your bed, skin cells will start to build up. Then dust mites feed on the skin cells, plus pet dander and other allergens may accumulate. While these are not serious concerns or health hazards, regular cleaning will keep your new memory foam mattress spotless. 

For best results, use a dust and water-resistant mattress cover at all times. Then strip and wash all bedding and covers every 2-3 weeks. While those are washing, vacuum the surface of the mattress with the hose attachment. 

Remove Stains & Spills from Memory Foam Mattresses

Even if you accidentally spill some of your morning coffee on your new mattress, all is not lost! With quick action and proper precaution you can clean up small spills and stains. Begin by immediately removing all bedding to be washed. This will prevent the stain from spreading via sheets or comforters.

Next, try to absorb as much of the liquid as possibly using a dry towel or paper towels. Then fill a small bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Using a washcloth, gently dab the stain while transferring as little soapy water to the mattress as possible. During this step be sure to work from the outside of the stain and make your way gradually to the center. This will also prevent the stain from spreading.

Once the stain has been removed, let the mattress sit uncovered until it has completely dried. If an odor remains, sprinkle some baking soda on the spot and vacuum it up once the mattress has dried. 

DO NOT use any cleaners with solvents or have the mattress dry-cleaned. These chemicals will break down the material in your memory foam mattress.

Caring for Different Mattress Types

Although foam beds come in all shapes and sizes, caring for your memory foam mattress is very standard. In order to create a foam bed that is medium-firm or plush, the density of the mattress will change a little. However, you can still clean and care for your mattress the same way. So when choosing your foam mattress, your only consideration should be which one provides the right comfort level!

Hybrid mattresses are another great option for those who want to explore memory foam beds. By combining the support of advanced innerspring with the comfort of memory foam, hybrid mattresses provide the best of both worlds. Also, since memory foam will be on the top comfort layer, you can care for your hybrid mattress just like a memory foam mattress. 

Who Benefits from Memory Foam Mattresses?

Although many people can benefit from memory foam, side sleepers and those who toss and turn frequently during the night will see dramatic advantages. Unlike standard innerspring mattresses, memory foam relieves pressure points because it allows the body to rest in a natural position. Instead of pushing the hips and shoulders out of alignment, side sleepers will find that memory foam conforms to the shape of their body. This allows the spine to rest in a straight position, which helps relieve back pain.

Because memory foam absorbs movement, sleeping partners are pleased to find that memory foam reduces motion transfer. This means that you won't be woken up in the middle of the night if your partner tosses or has to get out of bed. 

Want to learn more?

If you are interested in purchasing a memory foam mattress or you want to learn more about them, visit Star Furniture in West Virginia and ask to speak to a sleep specialist. They will help you determine your comfort level and match you with the perfect foam mattress to meet your support needs. You can also check out our current sales page to see what special prices or financing options are going on now!