Decoding Mattress Foam: Types, Density, and Composition

Your mattress's foam isn't just about comfort; it's a science that shapes your sleep experience. Delve into the intricate world of mattress foam as we dissect the specifics – from foam density to chemical composition. Let's explore the technical nuances of memory foam, latex foam, polyurethane foam, pocket spring and foam hybrids, and the revolutionary Soy-visco foam from Valencia, Spain.

Memory Foam

Memory foam's allure lies in its ability to contour to your body, providing tailored support. Its density determines its quality and longevity. Low-density foam (50 to 64 kg/m³) offers soft comfort but might sag over time. Medium-density (64 to 80 kg/m³) foam balances comfort and durability. High-density foam (over 80 kg/m³) excels in longevity but might feel firmer. It's composed of visco-elastic polyurethane foam infused with various chemicals to create the signature body-conforming properties. Breathability is where memory foam mattresses suffer due to containing cell foam system, which can lead to overheating when wrapped up in the moulded surface.

Polyurethane Foam

Polyurethane foam comes in various densities, catering to different needs. Low-density (24 to 40 kg/m³) foam is often used in mattresses to provide soft comfort layers. Medium-density (40 to 56 kg/m³) foam balances comfort and support, while high-density (over 56 kg/m³) foam offers robust support. Its composition involves blending chemicals like polyols and diisocyanates, with varying ratios leading to different foam densities. Short life is a major disadvantage of polyurethane products. They have hydroscopic tendencies; polyurethane mattresses absorb water and gradually disintegrate and lose their quality of support. Another issue is that polyurethane emits odours and fumes, though they're not that highly noticeable.

Pocket Spring and Foam

Hybrid mattresses combine pocket springs with foam encasement, offering robust support and comfort. Foam encasement is usually high-density polyurethane foam (40 to 56 kg/m³), providing edge support and enhancing mattress durability. Pocket springs are typically made of high-carbon steel, individually encased in fabric pockets for targeted support and minimal motion transfer. Though the combination of springs and other materials makes these mattresses quite heavy, making them challenging to move or turn. Hybrid pocket spring and foam mattresses require regular rotation to prevent sagging or indentations over time. However, due to their weight, this task can be strenuous. Additionally, like a purely memory foam mattress, heat retention can be an issue since the top layers are often memory foam.

Latex

Derived from the sap of rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis), latex is a natural choice for those seeking resilience and comfort. It's available in two main types: Dunlop and Talalay. Dunlop latex is denser and heavier, making it durable and supportive. Talalay latex, thanks to its unique manufacturing process, offers a softer feel. Its density typically ranges from 64 to 80 kg/m³. The chemical composition of latex foam includes natural rubber, water, and small amounts of curing agents. Unfortunately, most latex mattresses are made using closed cell materials, leading to similar issues of breathability that memory foam faces, resulting in getting too warm in bed. Latex mattresses are also often heavy, making rotating them a chore, and due to their rubbery nature, manoeuvring them can be quite the challenge.

Visco-Elastic Soy Foam

Visco-Elastic Soy Foam, the star of innovation, stems from Soy Plant oil, revolutionising mattress comfort and longevity. Crafted to European standards, its density often surpasses 80 kg/m³, ensuring exceptional durability. Its unique chemical composition combines Soy Plant oil and other elements to create a resilient and comfortable foam system, in a more natural product. The Natural Soy range uses a multi-layered, profile cut foam system that gently contours to the body while being flexible enough for adjustable beds. Its rapid recovery promotes easy movement, while its open-cell structure enhances breathability, combating overheating issues common in traditional memory foam and latex mattresses.

Choosing the Right Formula for Your Sleep

Selecting the right foam for your mattress is akin to crafting a personalised formula for your sleep needs. Each foam type offers specific advantages and considerations. From memory foam's density nuances to the natural composition of latex, and the chemical complexities of polyurethane, your choice impacts your sleep quality. As you explore the technical intricacies, remember that Soy-visco foam introduces a new era of durability and comfort, challenging the norms and promising lasting restfulness.

In conclusion, mattress foam is more than meets the eye. It's a symphony of density, composition, and science that creates the foundation of your sleep sanctuary.  Embrace the details, empower your sleep choices, and elevate your nights. We’d welcome the opportunity to guide your journey to better sleep with one of our Life Changing Beds.