Tips for Buying Foam Mattresses

Congratulations on considering a foam mattress to meet your sleep needs. This is no small move and it should be treated with the same care reserved for any significant investment. After all, a high quality foam mattress can provide exceptional comfort and support for two decades or more under normal conditions.

But many people are unfamiliar with memory foam and latex foam mattresses which are wholly different from the traditional innerspring mattresses that people are still most familiar. Foam mattresses are attractive because the solid, no-spring design eliminates the soreness and discomfort that result from pressure points that develop where the body contacts internal mattress springs. Instead, a body contouring effect cradles and evenly distributes weight harmlessly across the sleep surface.

The therapeutic benefits of foam mattresses have won many fans the world over. But make sure you know what to look for when buying a new bed. To help, here are 5 tips for buying foam mattresses:

• Firmness is one of the most important foam mattress considerations. Firmness is how hard or soft the mattress is and the ideal foam firmness should range between three and five pounds. Anything less than three pounds and the user risks bottoming out. Anything harder than five pounds is likely to be uncomfortable for most people.

• Density is the other major consideration when buying a foam mattress. Density is rated in a mattress by ILD (the Indentation Load Deflection) which shows how much support the mattress provides. In this context, an ILD of 10 or less is going to provide a plush sleep while anything 15 or more is going to consist of a very rigid composition.

• Look for an in-home trial. Reputable foam mattress dealers want to ensure you buy the right mattress. They also know it is virtually impossible to get a clear picture of a mattress’ capabilities with only a showroom test. High quality foam mattresses should carry a 90-day in-home trial to ensure the right purchase is made.

• A long-term warranty is essential. Foam mattresses that are constructed with high quality materials under strict production guidelines should last for many years and the buyer’s warranty should reflect that fact. Insist on products that carry a 20-year warranty.

• Be wary of the origins of a foam mattress’ manufacture. Some countries like China have lax production standards and have been known to use dubious, and even hazardous, materials. Whenever possible it is a good idea to buy foam mattresses that are made in the U.S.A.