Types of Mattresses – Explained and Demystified

Gone are the days when only traditional spring beds were mostly in use, and there were not too many classifications of mattresses available. In medieval times, mattresses were stuffed with straw and used with wooden beds, and the poor people even slept on piles of hay, straw, or leaves. By the 12th century, embroidered mattresses started to appear. By the end of this period, mattresses were being stuffed with down. In the 19th century, beds were revolutionized as coil springs were invented in 1870. Moreover, at the start of the 20th century, it had become possible to mass-produce beds and mattresses. As more progress resulted, mattresses started to become more and more comfortable.

Mattress Classification by Materials

The easiest and most convenient way to classify the mattress in the world today is to classify them based on the material used in them. Based on this criterion, the mattresses can be divided into the following types:

Innersprings Mattresses

The innerspring mattresses were invented in 1870 by Heinrich Westphal in Berlin, Germany. He ingeniously used metal coils that were being used to cushion the under-seat area in horse-drawn carriages to invent his new mattress. The greatest comfort which was made available to the sleepers as a result of this invention was the excellent support provided by the innerspring. They were also very durable and could also easily bear compression. However, these mattresses took a long time to become popular. It was not until the 1930s when these mattresses started to reach ordinary homes. These mattresses are still around even though they face very strong competition from other types of mattresses that were invented after them. The central core of an innerspring mattress is still the same as it was before however, there are variations these days in terms of the coil type, the gauge of the stainless steel used in the coil springs, the type of coil and the way these are protected by a comfortable layer material.

These mattresses use many different types of coil innerspring. There are four main types of coils, and these are:

• Continuous coils have rows of coils that are formed out of a single wire. They produce a hinging effect. They are also known as Mira coils.
• Bonnel coils have been the most commonly used as they are the oldest. These are the ones that were originally adopted from horse carriage seats. They are round-top, knotted steel wire coils that are hour-glass shaped.  To make an innerspring unit, these are laced with cross wire helical,
• . Offset coils are similar to hourglass type coils but with the top and bottom convolutions properly flattened. Flat parts of the wire are hinged with helical wires. The configuration of these coils is such that they adjust to the shape of the body. A type of offset coils is called Left Facing Knot (LFK) coils. They have either a columnar shape or a cylindrical one.
• Marshall coils are the encased or the wrapped ones, and these are also known as pocketed springs. These are used in modern innerspring and hybrid mattresses as three enable motion isolation and prevent motion transfer. They are individually pocketed and encased, so only the part of the mattress which is under the body compresses while the rest of the mattress retains its original shape. These are like couples who do not want to bother each other during sleep and who prefer a supportive mattress.

How Does Innerspring Mattress Work?

These days, as mentioned earlier, the pocketed coil spring mattress is the most popular type of innerspring mattresses. AS they are individually pocketed, they are ideal for motion isolation. When one sleep partner gets up from the mattress, the other one is not disturbed. As such, these are good for couples who have different sleep schedules. When a body lies down on the mattress made of these coil innerspring, coils under the body get compressed. The initial part of the compression allows for softness and comfort while the latter part of the compression allows for the required support. This is how both comfort and support are provided by the innerspring coil mattress. While providing support, these coil innerspring exert a pushback on the body or even a bounce bank, which allows the body to balance the gravitational force with this force. Therefore, the body does not sink into the mattress and remains fully supported.

Key advantages

The greatest advantage of innerspring coil mattress is the high level of support that has to offer. They are very sturdy; the technology has been tried and tested for more than 100 years, and they provide a perfect bounce back or buoyant support to the body. They exert a force upwards against gravity and do not let the body sink into the mattress. They are also instrumental in keeping the spine aligned and provide a high level of support.

The coil springs are very durable as they are made out of heavy gauge steel and last for a long time. The pocketed coil springs are ideal for sleep partners with different sleep schedules as they do not let the movement of one partner disturb the other. The pocketed coil springs are not just being used in the innerspring mattresses but also in hybrid mattresses, in which case the lower part of the mattress is composed of these coils.

Additional Features

The coil innerspring has got excellent weight distribution capability due to the pocketed nature of innerspring. Manufacturers aim to increase the number of coils while at the same time try to reduce the weight of the steel per coil.  This way, a very smooth and firm mattress is obtained.  The distribution of body weight is the key to improved support. Normally, the higher the number of coils, the better is the innerspring mattress. Coil innerspring mattresses have got medical and orthopedic uses as well because they help to correct spinal alignment.

Drawbacks

The coil innerspring has got empty spaces within them. These empty spaces sometimes allow dust mites and allergens to reside and thrive in the innerspring mattresses. To avoid this problem, it is always good to purchase an innerspring mattress, which has got edge support with the help of very dense foam. The high-density foam blocks of the entrance for the dust mites, mildew, etc. Thus, the mattress becomes hypoallergenic. In the absence of such edge support, the innerspring mattresses are not hypoallergenic.

Who is it ideal for?

The innerspring mattresses are ideal for those people who feel comfortable only when the mattress is highly supportive. They do not like to sink into the mattress. Couples requiring perfect motion isolation and especially those who have different sleep schedules, can use these mattresses. They are also ideal for medical and therapeutic use for those people who feel good on the very supportive mattress, which corrects their spinal alignment.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Viscoelastic polyurethane (PU) foam or more commonly known as memory foam, was invented in the 1970s for use by the National Aeronautics and Space Association (NASA).  NASA was endeavoring to develop a cushioning material that could be used to provide crash protection to astronauts and even for airlines in case of accidents. As a result of its property to regain its shape gradually, it was termed as ‘slow spring back foam.’ It has the characteristic of compressing when either pressure or heat is applied to it. When a person sits on it or lies down on it, the weight of the body produces pressure, and the body heat heats it leading it to get compressed. When heat and pressure are lifted, i.e. when the body moves away, it slowly regains its original shape. It is interesting to note here that while the innerspring mattress was invented based on the under-seating arrangement for horse carriages, memory foam was invented about cushioning required for space vehicles and airlines. The common factor between these two inventions 100 years apart (1870 and 1970) is transportation. In case of the innerspring, it was horse carriages. In the case of memory foam, the targets were the space crafts and aircraft. In both cases, the need for proper cushioning during transportation was the main reason behind these inventions.

How Does it work?

The memory foam or viscoelastic foam takes the shape of the body lying or sitting on it. It compresses due to the pressure of the weight of the body and the body heat as well. When the person shifts his/her position or gets up from the bed, the memory foam regains its original shape gradually. This allows the memory foam mattresses to cradle the body and mold around it. The property prevents the body from rolling over the mattress or being jolted out of bed due to the bounce back as experienced in certain traditional spring beds.  The ability of the memory foam to adjust to the body contours is termed as body-conformance. The memory foam mattress also provides pressure point relief. When a person lies down on a traditional spring bed, certain parts of the body like the neck, shoulders, hips, etc. come under severe stress as the downward gravitational pull on the body is balanced by an equally strong upward force exerted by the spring bed. This creates pressures on these pressure points. Memory foam is known to relieve this pressure and comfort the sleeper to the maximum. Pressure point relief makes memory foam mattresses very useful for those people who suffer from back pain and joint pains, etc.

Key Advantages

Memory foam mattress enables perfect weight distribution, which is even across the surface of the entire mattress. This is very different from the traditional spring beds in which the weight is focused on certain body parts that come under severe pressure. The sleeper often wakes up with sore muscles and numb limbs on such traditional beds. Memory foam mattresses allow the sleeper to distribute the weight of the body evenly and wake up fully refreshed and reinvigorated.

Memory foam mattresses allow for motion isolation as sleep partners are prevented from being disturbed by each other’s movements on the mattress. When one sleep partner gets up, the memory foam under him/her regains its shape gradually and does not transfer the motion to the other partner. This property is great for those couples who have different sleep schedules.

A traditional spring bed would have up to a million dust mites, which, despite being harmless, cause allergies. The memory foam mattress is dense, and therefore, it does not allow the dust mites and mildew to live and thrive in the mattress. This enables a clean and sanitary sleep environment, which is very comfortable to sleep in. As such, memory foam mattresses are hypoallergenic.

Additional Features

Memory foam has a dense structure. The denser the foam, the better is its quality, and as such, memory foam mattresses last for a very long time. It is not uncommon to have memory foam mattresses lasting for eight to 10 years while maintaining their performance levels. The maintenance carried out by the sleeper is also another factor that determines the longevity of the memory foam mattresses.

High-quality memory foams carry CertiPUR-US certification for content, performance, and durability. This is an independent third-party laboratory institutional testing, and it assures that the memory foam or any other foam tested and certified does not contain any harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, fire retardants, ozone depleters, mercury, lead, other heavy metals, PBDEs, phthalates, etc. as normal chemicals are used to process memory foam and other foam materials. The certifications assure that the emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are within acceptable limits and well under control. This ensures that the room air quality of the room where the mattress is placed will remain clean and acceptable. Only in the first 2-3 days, memory foam mattresses upon arrival at the purchaser’s site need to be aired properly to allow them to off-gas. The process air is released within 72 hours, and it is replaced by clean room air. The memory foam mattresses do not give odor after three days of off-gassing.

Drawbacks

The memory foam mattresses have certain shortcomings, as well. Because of the gradual recovery of the original mattress shape after the weight of the body has shifted away from a point on the mattress, the mattress gives a feeling of ‘getting stuck’ to the sleeper. It is also difficult to roll fast on a memory foam mattress for the same reason.  The second major issue with memory foam mattresses is that while it is breathable, the level of breathability is not very high. Therefore, people who sleep hot feel uncomfortable on a memory foam mattress. In general, a memory foam mattress would make the sleeper hot during warm summer nights.

Who is it ideal for?

Memory foam mattresses are ideal for use by those who would like to have a comfortable sleep experience. These are good for people who do not sleep hot or those who do not move around the bed a lot. It is ideal for people who suffer from back pains and joint pains as the memory foam relieves pressure points. It can be used by people who have allergy issues on traditional spring beds. Couples can also use these to avail of the motion isolation features of the memory foam mattresses.

Cooling Gel-Infused Memory Foam Mattresses

To avoid sleeping hot on a memory foam mattress, the memory foam is infused with gel, which enables an open cell structure within the viscoelastic memory foam. All the characteristics of the memory foam, including body-conformance and pressure relief, are retained. The open cell structure imparts higher breathability to the mattress. It enables airflow through it which allows the sweat and moisture to be wicked away from the body. This causes a cool and dry effect on the body.

Moreover, the body heat is also dispersed away from the body due to the airflow. This makes the gel-infused memory foam mattress thermoregulating, and the surface of the mattress achieves the desired sleep temperature. The sleeper gets to have a very cool and comfortable night’s rest in the hot summer nights. In the winter nights, the sleep surface becomes dry and warm.

The gel is not the only substance that is infused to allow the viscoelastic memory foam to modify its properties. Bamboo (bamboo viscose rayon) infusion is used to make it more hypoallergenic, as well as very soft and cool. Copper infusion is done to make the mattress antibacterial, and this a very clean and sanitary mattress. Aloe vera oil and other natural oils are infused to make the mattress very refreshing at all times.

How does it work?

All the viscoelastic memory foam features are retained. On top of these, the sleep surface provided by a gel-infused memory foam enables a very comfortable, refreshing, cool, and dry sleep environment, which is ideal for use in both summer and winter nights. The circulating air through the open cells wicks away sweat and moisture and disperses the body heat. The sleeper gets to sleep in a very cool and relaxed sleep environment.

Key Advantages

The sleeper sleeps cool and dry and does not toss and turn in the night due to discomfort. The gel-infused memory foam mattresses are hypoallergenic, so the sleeper stays safe from dust mites, mildew, mold, and allergens, etc. On top of these advantages, the mattress relieves pressure points and distributes weight equally on the entire surface of the mattress. It enables motion isolation and prevents one sleep partner’s movements from disturbing the other.

Additional Features

The gel-infused memory foam is usually used in the form of layers along with memory foam and other types of foam or coil innerspring. Usually, the top layer of the mattress is composed of the gel-infused memory foam layer to keep the top surface of the mattress cool and dry for the sleeper. A very serene and comfortable sleep environment is created this way. Many a time, another layer of gel-infused memory foam is inserted into the mattress to emphasize on the cooling capability of the mattress.  Many manufacturers have also designed their own patented foam systems, which allow for air circulation for cooling purposes.

Drawbacks

The only drawback which is common with memory foam mattresses is that gel-infused memory foam gradual to recover, and therefore, the feeling of getting stuck can sometimes prevail, especially if someone is trying to roll over the mattress. Some people claim that the gel-infusion lowers down body conformance. However, this has not been proven yet.

Who is it ideal for?

The gel-infused memory foam mattresses are ideal for use by people who sleep hot or who live in warm and tropical areas. The mattress is also good for people who have allergy issues and those who have joint pains, back pains, etc. Couples can use this mattress with full assurance that as sleep, they would not be making each other uncomfortable during sleep when one of them moves on the bed or gets up from it.

Latex Mattresses

Latex is a natural product which is obtained from the sap of the rubber tree. As the rubber tree does not have to be cut down to extract latex, it is considered a sustainable material. This is an ideal natural solution for bedding for those people who love to use sustainable products to have a modern and socially and environmentally responsible lifestyle.  Latex is also available in two different forms. One is natural latex, which is described above, and the other is in the form of a synthetic latex alternative. The latex alternative has the same properties as natural latex. However, it is a bit more durable. Nonetheless for anyone wishing to purchase sustainable products, natural latex is the ideal solution.

How does it work?

Latex has got all the properties of regular memory foam. It is body-conforming and pressure-relieving as much as the memory foam. However, it has an extra feature, which makes it highly suitable. It offers a larger bounce or buoyancy. Memory form would allow the body to sink into the mattress and at times, it might even give a feel to the sleeper as if the body is ‘stuck’ in the mattress. Latex prevents this feeling from occurring as it has a very good recovery and provides a strong bounce.

Key advantages

Memory foam also makes the sleeper feeler sleep hot, while Latex would retain less heat. For anyone who wants to move around on the mattress a lot and would not want to get a ‘stuck’ feeling, latex mattresses are the best. At the same time, the sleeper would be able to enjoy a cooler seep surface on the latex as compared to a memory foam mattress. Due to the extra bounce, it becomes possible to roll over the mattes without getting stuck.

As the latex material is natural and no chemicals are used in its processing, there are no smells. This is great for toes people who are very sensitive to smells and for those who want to keep their room air perfectly clean and free of harsh chemicals or Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). However, the synthetic latex or foam made out of a combination of natural latex and synthetic latex would be prone to off-gassing.

The latex matters also ensure motion isolation, and couples sleeping on them can be assured that the movement of one sleep partner would not disturb the other.  This is in sharp contrast to the motion transfer that occurs in traditional spring beds and waterbeds.

Additional Features

The extra features of the latex materials depend on the process used to manufacture it. There are two different types of process which are commonly used. One is the Dunlop process, and the other one is known as Talalay. Latex manufactured through the Dunlop process is softer at the top and denser at the bottom. This happens because, as a part f the process, the latex is poured into mold in just one single pour. In the case of the Talalay latex, once the mold has been filled, a vacuum is used to suck out all the air from inside the latex in the mold.  The material left in the mold is then frozen so that the overall structure of the material is stabilized.  The latex foam which is then produced is highly consistent as compared to the one produced through the Dunlop process. This type of latex provides consistency in properties as well, and it is considered a superior type of latex with equal bounce all over the material.

Drawbacks

Some latex bed owners complain about the extra firmness of the latex material. It is important to consider the Impression Load Deflection (ILD) rating of the latex material before purchasing the mattress. Higher ILD means the latex is firm and low ILD means that the latex is softer. The latex mattresses are firm initially but can be broken after a few weeks of use. Some people report body impressions created on the latex material. However, this is more common with synthetic latex.

 Who is it ideal for?

Latex material or foam is good for those who like an extra bounce in the bed and feel better on a mattress with quick recovery. People who want to avoid the ‘stuck’ feel of the memory foam, as well as those who sleep hot on memory foam mattresses, would like latex.  It is good for couples as it enables motion isolation. Lastly, it is ideal for those who prefer an environmentally conscious and responsible lifestyle. Natural latex is ideal for their use.

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses are made out of both foam material as well as coil innerspring. The foam material could include memory foam, gel-infused memory foam, latex, special patented airflow technology foams. Special patented quick recovery foams, high-density comfort foam, etc. The foam materials are placed in the shape of layers on the top and middle of the hybrid mattress while the bottom layer is that of pocketed coil innerspring to ensure perfect support.

How does it work?

Hybrid mattresses are designed and constructed to provide the best of both worlds of comfort and support. The comfort to the sleeper is provided by the use of either memory foam, gel-infused memory foam, comfort foam, latex, quick responsive foams airflow foams, etc. on the top and middle part of the mattress. Usually, the middle layer of foam also provides support and is termed as the transitionary layer of foam as well. The ultimate super is then provided by the lower part of the mattress, which is made out of coil springs.

Key advantages

The maximization of bot the comfort level as well as the support level is the hallmark of the hybrid mattress. These mattresses are very comfortable, yet at the same time, they are highly durable and last for a very long time. The mattresses exhibit a combination of both the latest foam development technologies as well as the established coil spring technology. A lot of these mattresses provide a cool and comfortable sleep surface with pressure-relief, body-conformance, thermal regulation, etc., with an ultimate level of support from the coil springs.

Additional Features

The coil spring technology dates back to 1870, while the memory foam was invented in 1970. The hybrid mattress brings both these technologies along with their benefits to the sleeper and combines these to make night rest perfectly comfortable and fully supportive. Thee can be no comfort without support. Hybrid mattresses allow for such features as hypoallergenic, antibacterial, comfortable, plushness, luxury, and support all in matters.

Drawbacks

The only drawback of the hybrid mattresses is their weight as they have multiple foam layers, which are supported by a heavy pocketed coil spring base. Thus, the logistics involved in transporting the mattress could be substantial however, once it is installed at the desired location, it performs perfectly well through its life span.

Who is ideal for?

The hybrid mattress is ideal for those people who would like to have both high level of comfort as well as long-lasting support in their mattress. The different foam layer combinations, as well as the breathable cover, provide a luxurious and comfortable top while the base is highly supportive and very durable. The hybrid mattresses are well-suited for couples to prevent motion transfer and can be used by all types of sleepers as well. They are also recommended for people who want to get rid of back pain, joint pain, etc.

Pillow Top Mattresses

Pillow top mattress are equipped with a ‘pillow topper,’ which is an extra layer or layers of upholstery which are added on top of regular memory foam or innerspring mattress.  The upholstery makes the pillow top very soft, and it provides a high level of cushioning. The pillow top mattress enables a cloud-like feel or a sinking type of feeling which a lot of people who like soft beds enjoy. The hip and the shoulder of the sleeper tend to sink in the mattress, and the spine is held in a correct position enabling a high degree of comfort. The purchaser can choose the level of softness for the pillow-top mattresses.

How does it work?

The pillow top works by providing a high level of cushioning on top of a memory foam mattress, an innerspring mattress e even on a hybrid mattress. This cushioning prevents the firmness of the matters from becoming a source of discomfort for anyone who prefers a very soft mattress or for those who sleep on their sides.

Key advantages

The pillow top mattress is very good to relieve back pain and any other joint pain etc. which could result from the pressure and stress not being relieved properly on a harder surface. The pillow top provides a high level of comfort and relieves these pressure points to ease the pain. The pillow-top mattresses have extra quilting. The top could be made out of memory foam, latex or carton, etc. it distributes weight of the body equally and improves sleep quality.

Additional Features

The pillow top mattress does not retain heat as much as memory foam does. For this reason, pillowtop mattresses allow the sleeper to have more comfort and cool sleep surface to allow him/her to enjoy sleep till morning without getting disturbed due to heat.  This allows people who sleep got to use this mattress as well.

Drawbacks

A standard set of shoes might not be suitable for a pillow top mattress.  Therefore, when purchasing sheets, the sleeper has to consider the extra padding on top of the bed.  The extra padding might add height to the mattress, and therefore, the standard sheets might not fit. Therefore, deep pocket sheets need to be used.

Who is ideal for?

Side sleepers love to sleep on pillow-top mattresses. These are also god for other sleep positions as well however, Side sleepers who have problems on other mattresses can choose these and stay comfortable. Even though the pillow top mattresses allow for a sinking feeling, they tend to keep the alpine of the side sleepers properly aligned.

Organic Mattresses

Organic Mattresses are made out of 100% natural latex foam with no mixing with synthetic latex. All other types of mattresses are processed with chemicals, and even after off-gassing would still emit at least some VOCs. Many of these mattresses are coated with fire-resistant chemicals as well to conform to fire safety standards. A lot of these chemicals are toxic and can lead to immunotoxicity and reproductive toxicity. Adverse chemicals could even lead to cancer. It is, therefore, important to purchase mattresses that are Oeko-Tex 100 standard-certified, Green Guard certified, or Eco-Institute certified.  Latex is, however, naturally fire-resistant and does not contain any chemicals at all.

How does it work?

100% natural latex is sustainable as no rubber trees are cut. It is obtained from a milky rubber sap. The latex is processed without the use of any chemicals and has got all the memory foam properties, but it does not retain heat or give a ‘stuck’ feel to the sleeper. It offers a better nonce back as well as quick recovery.

Key Advantages

The greatest advantage is its positive effect on human health as well as the health of the environment within the house. It does not off-gas, and it is not processed with chemicals. In terms of properties, it provides very quick recovery and has an extra bounce back which is superior to that of regular memory foam. It keeps the sleeper cooler.

Additional Features

100% natural organic latex is very eco-friendly as it is obtained from rubber sap, and the trees are allowed to live. A single rubber tree can be tapped for rubber sap for as long as 30 years.  Thus, the entire process is highly sustainable. The room air stays clean and free of chemicals. Latex provides perfect pain relief, as well. This material is a blessing for those eco-friendly lifestyle seekers who want to have natural products without chemicals and who also want these products to have all the right features for their use. Latex has all the great features and even more as compared to memory foam, and at the same time, it is sustainable and eco-friendly.

Drawbacks

The only major drawback is that latex material like Talalay latex is expensive. Even as compared to Dunlop latex, it takes 4 times more time to produce and thus carries a higher price tag. Dunlop latex is the second highest in terms of pricing for bedding materials. Talalay latex material is also heavy due to its very high quality. Some sleepers might not like the idea of a very heavy mattress, but it is certainly worth the trouble. This type of mattress can last for a lifetime

Who is ideal for?

100% natural latex is ideal for anyone who wants to revel in the luxury of a chemical-free, 100% natural and organic, comfortable, pressure-relieving, body-conforming, and supportive mattress, which is both antibacterial and hypoallergenic. Every sleeper can use it, and it is especially appreciated by those who prefer to use eco-friendly and sustainable high0-quality products.

Air Mattress

Air Mattresses are used in a variety of ways. They can be used permanently as a fixed bed or can be used in the guest room to host visitors in the night. They are ideal for use while camping or backpacking. They are also very well-suited for people who have back pain, etc.

How does it work?

The Air mattresses are inflated using an electrical pump that comes along with these mattresses, or even an external pump could be used. The pump is usually operated using AC mains, and the air mattress is filled with air to the level that the sleeper feels comfortable in terms of the firmness.

Key advantages

The greatest advantage which air mattresses have to offer is that the firmness level can be adjusted. If extra air is filled, it will make the mattress very form whereas releasing the air would make the mattress softer. This way, the sleeper can fine-tune the level of firmness to the most preferred level.  Many people would like to keep different firmness levels. Many different people would like to keep different firmness levels at different times, and this becomes possible with an air mattress.

Additional Features

The adjustment in the firmness levels allows people who have back pains to try different levels to see which one suits the best for them in terms of pain relief.  Back pain, joint pain, etc. can be relieved in this manner. Some air mattresses offer two different firmness levels on each side of the mattress thereby allowing those couples to sleep comfortable who prefer different firmness levels. The PVC material used in the air mattresses does not give out any odor, and thus there are no off-gassing issues to handle.

The air mattress never sags. This is quite common with many other types of mattresses. If they are not laid on a solid bed frame or a foundation, they tend to sag. With an air mattress, there is no such issue. If such an issue appears to occur, simply filling more air would remedy it immediately.  The air mattresses are more durable as compared to either memory foam, latex, or coil spring mattresses. They can last for as long as 15 years while the others have a lifespan of 8-10 years normally. The pump might fail during the 15 years, but it can always be repaired or replaced. These mattresses can also be taken on camping trips and backpacking trips, etc. as they are very easily transported when they are not filled with air.

Drawbacks

The set-up of an air mattress might take up to 2 people and at least one hour initially. Once installed, though, it is very easy to handle. Some air mattresses might have a noisy pump. However, it is only used while inflating or deflating. High-quality brands have low noise pumps. The internal pump might stop working after a few years and might need to be replaced. The warranty period of these air mattresses is normally less as compared to the ones for latex, memory foam or innerspring mattresses.

Who is it ideal for?

The air mattress is ideal for those people who would want to adjust the firmness level to arrive at the best possible one for back pain, comfort, etc.  It is also well-suited for those who travel and lot and would like to take the air mattress along with on camping and backpacking trips. All types of sleepers can use it due to the ability to adjust the firmness levels.

Crib Mattresses

Crib mattress are made out of the same type of materials which are used to manufacture other mattresses; however, in this particular case, safety is the main criterion to judge their performance. The crib mattress is designed to support the growth of the toddler’s body and prevent him/her from getting spinal scoliosis. They also help to enhance blood circulation.

How does it work?

Crib mattresses are available in the market with different construction materials. There are foam crib mattresses, innerspring, or coil spring crib mattresses ad 100% natural organic crib mattresses. They all provide both comfort and support, however, and they have different features depending on the construction materials.

Key Advantages

The foam crib mattresses are very lightweight and easily affordable. They can be folded and removed very easily. The coil spring ones are very sturdy and robust and last for a much longer time. The organic ones are 100% natural, and they are chemical-free. They are very mild on allergies and are quite breathable.

Additional Features

Soft crib mattresses might pose a suffocation risk to mattresses, so it is better Togo for firmer ones. Moreover, the thicker the crib mattress, the better it is for the toddler. It is recommended not to put a less than one-year-old baby on the stomach as that could cause death due to the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Drawbacks

The foam crib mattresses not very long-lasting. The coil spring ones are heavy, and the purchaser must not invest in low-quality ones as they would start to squeak. The natural ones are very eco-friendly, but the purchaser must be careful about the firmness level at the time of purchase as different natural products would have different firmness levels.

Who is ideal for?      

Crib mattress, as the name suggests, is used for babies and toddlers in their cribs or cots. The most important priority is always to concentrate on the safety aspects of the mattress and ensure that it is suitable for the toddler in terms of firmness, comfort, and support, As long as it is safe to use regardless of whether it is made out of 100% natural organic material, foam or coil springs, the crib mattress is good for use with babies and toddlers.

RV (Recreational Vehicle) Mattresses

RV Mattresses are no longer a simple chunk of foams. Now they are being constructed with multiple layers of foam as well as innerspring. Many of these are now equipped with gel-infused memory foam-based cooling technologies and also provide pressure-cooking relief as well as a high level of cushioning. They also boat of bottom layers of high-density foam to provide adequate support.

How does it work?

The RV mattresses are used in recreational vehicles and are built accordingly to fit them perfectly. They are constructed to provide comfort during travel and try to maximize comfort and support with the minimum use of the mattress materials.

Key Advantages

The RV mattresses are shorter than queen beds usually, but they incorporate the same type of luxury features like coolness, body conformance, pressure-relief, thermal regulation, hypoallergenic nature, and a high level of support just like the luxury mattresses used at homes. They even include highly breathable covers made out of Tencel or other breathable and soft materials to provide a high level of luxurious comfort to the sleepers.

Additional Features

The RV mattresses are available in different levels of firmness and support, just like the regular mattresses. Some are useful for single sleepers who are average weight while others are suitable for heavier ones or couples. Regardless of their firmness level or size, they are usually made out of high-quality Certi{PUR-US certified foam and have similar technology refinements as the regular mattresses used in homes.

Drawbacks

Thee is no directly related drawback for RV mattresses. The drawbacks are linked to the materials used in these mattresses, and as such, memory foam RV mattresses have the same shortcomings as those od regular memory foam mattresses, and the same is true for innerspring or latex mattresses as well. The fact that they are RV mattresses does not have any influence on the drawbacks.  The only difference is due to their lower weight, the level of comfort and support would be lower as compared to the mattress at home which is thicker ad heavier.

Who is ideal for?

The RV mattresses are ideal for those people who travel in recreational vehicles (RVs) and need to spend the night during travel. They could be couples or singles, and the RV mattresses available can cater to both people with average weight as well as those who are heavier.

Foldable Mattresses

Foldable or Folding Mattresses are highly versatile and portable. They can be folded either for storage or for transportation. They can be used for camping, traveling, and for occasions a surprise visitor arrives at home. These are usually made out of memory foam or polyurethane (PU) foam. Memory foam mattresses are valued higher as compared to PU foam mattresses

How does it work?

The foldable mattresses have got coves that are not only breathable, but they are very strong and durable, as well. They are designed to protect the mattress from external threats that can cause damage. In case the mattress is desired to be used for camping, the cover is usually waterproof. The covers are often removable. Although thicker mattresses are more comfortable, the thickness of the foldable mattress is optimized if they are needed to be used for traveling purposes.

Key Advantages

The foldable mattresses can bear the vagaries of weather if they are used on camping etc. They are strong, and the cover is waterproof. The protects the foam from moisture. They are used for a variety of purposes, from traveling, camping, etc. They do not suffer any damage due to the folding action, unlike the regular mattresses which are used at homes.

Additional Features

As they are made out of foam or memory foam, they have all the related features, and in case of use of memory foam, they are pressure-relieving, body-conforming, weight-distrusting, thermoregulating and quite supportive. As a result of being made out of high quality and dense foam materials, these mattresses are also hypoallergenic and tend to repel allergens and dust mites.

Drawbacks

Those foldable mattresses which are made out of low-quality or medium quality PU foam might not be very durable. If these mattresses are not properly maintained, they could start to give odor and start to sag. Some of the foldable mattresses do not have handles to carry, and thus,  portability becomes an issue.

Who is ideal for?

The RV Mattress is ideal for use with recreational vehicles and can be used by people who are single and lightweight or by those who are heavier. They can be used by couples as well. The level of comfort and support is high enough to provide comfortable sleep for all types of sleepers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What mattress type is most comfortable?

Comfort is subjective and differs from person to person. According to one’s preferences for the firmness level of the mattress.  Some people feel comfortable on a plush and soft mattress while others would be more comfortable on a medium-firm or even a firmer mattress. In general, people who sleep on their side prefer a softer mattress while those who sleep on their backs prefer a firmer one.

Do Memory foam mattresses make one sleep hot?

Memory foam reacts to heat and pressure. It does retain body heat and can make the sleeper hot, especially during warm summer nights. As compared to regular memory foam, Latex retains less heat and does not make the sleeper as hot as memory foam.

What process is applied to memory foam to make it cooler in summer nights?

Regular memory foam is body-conforming and pressure-relieving, but it does retain some body heat. When gel is infused into regular memory foam, its cell structure becomes more open, and it attains the ability to enable airflow through it. This enhanced airflow wicks away sweat and moisture from the body and disperses body heat as well. The sleep environment becomes dry and cool, and the sleeper gets to have a very comfortable and deep night rest without any tossing and turning due to discomfort.

Does a Gel-memory foam mattress have only one type of foam?

Gel memory foam mattresses are constructed in the form of layers. There is a gel memory foam layer on top of the mattress, and this is usually followed by a regular memory foam layer to enhance pressure relief and body-conformance. These are usually supported by a high-density support foam base at the bottom. Some gel-memory foam mattresses would also include comfort foam layer in between to act as a transitionary layer between the upper comfort part of the mattress and the lower support part of the mattress.  In the case of hybrid mattresses, the bottom support layer is that of pocketed coil springs, which provide ultimate support.

Does memory foam create a ‘stuck’ feel if one tries to move on top of it?

Memory foam retains its shape gradually as pressure is lifted away from it. It does not recover immediately. If a body moves very quickly on top of a memory foam mattress, the body might experience a feeling as if it is ‘stuck; in the mattress.  This is remedied by adding a quick response foam layer in a memory foam mattress or a latex layer. Latex is a natural product and is very quick to recover and respond. Latex mattresses regain their original shape immediately and therefore, it is possible for the body to move quickly on top of it and not feel stuck at all.

Does Latex in the market all-natural?

Only 100% natural organic latex is all-natural. Many manufacturers use synthetic latex or latex alternative. Some use a mix of both natural latex and synthetic latex. 100% natural organic latex is obtained sustainably from rubber sap and is an eco-friendly product. Its extraction does not involve cutting down the rubber tree. A single rubber tree can be tapped for as long as 30 years.

Is Latex processed without the use of chemicals?

Latex is processed without the use of chemicals. It is poured in a mold. There are two processes that produce latex, and these are the Dunlop process and the Talalay process. Dunlop latex is soft on the top and dense at the bottom. Talalay latex is more expensive, and it is consistent throughout the body of the latex material. Latex does not off-gas, so it does not give any odor.

Do Memory foam and Gel-infused memory foam mattresses off-gas?

Chemicals are used to process foam, PU foam, and gel-infused memory foam, etc. When the mattress arrives after shipment, it contains process gases trapped inside the mattress. Placing the mattress in an airy place with preferably the fan turned on releases the process gases, and this is called off-gassing. These gases are replaced by cleanroom air. The mattress gives odor for up to 72 hours and then it is ready to be used after putting the bedding on it.

Do Memory foam and Latex help in Back pain reduction?

Both these types of foam have pressure-relieving and body-conforming properties. They take the stress off pressure points, and this helps to reduce back pains, joint pains, etc. On a traditional spring bed, various body parts come under severe stress as a result of the interaction between the gravitational pull, which pulls the body down, and the upward pushback applied by the mattress. This results in stress on pressure points. Both latex and memory foam relieve this stress. They also evenly distribute body weight to ensure that the limbs would not go numb, and muscles would not be sore as they do on a traditional spring bed.

Are memory foam, gel-infused memory foam, and Latex mattresses hypoallergenic?

All of these foam materials are quite dense. The dense structure does not let dust mites and mildew to live and thrive in them. As such, they repel allergens and are hypoallergenic.

What is the prime concern in the case of crib mattresses?

The prime concern in the case of crib mattresses should always be the safety of the baby or the toddler.  Other concerns are comfort, breathability, support, etc.