How to Select a Firmness Memory Foam Mattress
Memory foam mattresses were first created in the 1970's by the NASA's Ames Research Center in response to alleviating the tremendous force that astronauts endured during take off. This type of mattress conforms to people's bodies, which allowed the mattress to take on any shape as the sleeping individual moved. Foam is graded by indentation load deflection or IDL, weight, tensile and resilience. While the scientific terms to rate memory foam can confuse average mattress buyers, there are other ways to determine the right firmness for you mattress. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Check online directory listings, the Better Business Bureau website and consumer reviews to find reputable mattress retailers in your area. There are numerous memory foam companies in the United States and unfortunately, many of them put out cheap products that are carried by unreputable retailers.
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Lay on the memory foam mattress in the retailer's store. Make sure that it can accommodate your height and give you enough room. If you are shopping for yourself and a spouse or partner, bring them along because selecting the amount of firmness depends on the buyers' preferences and weight. Roll around on the bed and switch positions to mimic your normal sleeping patterns.
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Look at the IDL of the memory foam mattress. Memory foam is sensitive to temperatures and the lower the IDL the easier the memory foam can break down and become uncomfortable. Purchase a memory foam mattress with an IDL between 12 to 14.
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Measure the thickness of the mattress with a measuring tape. The thicker the foam the firmer it will be. Memory foam should be between 2.5 to 6 inches. The retailer should have a cut out sample of the memory foam. Because memory foam is within the mattress, you will need to see this sample in order to get an accurate measurement.
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Check the label for its density. Density is measured by pounds per cubic feet. The higher the density the more the mattress will conform to your body. Memory foam that is going to consistently conform to your body will be above 4 pounds of density. This high density will relieve pressure and provide more comfort.
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Tips & Warnings
Visit the link found in resources for a list of reviews of reputable memory foam companies in both the United States and Sweden.
Avoid buying a memory foam mattress online without testing out the company's product. Check their return policy to ensure that you may return any bed that you are unhappy with.
