How to choose the right Memory Foam Topper – Tempurpedic memory foam cover
June 2, 2009 – 2:16 pmThough memory foam toppers can not provide all of the benefits of a full mattress, these toppers (also called mattress pads or overlays), are an affordable alternative to a full memory foam mattress. A topper is a layer of memory foam designed to fit over an existing conventional mattress. They come in a variety of thicknesses and densities, and each configuration has its own special qualities.
Density – Density is one of the most important characteristics of memory foam as well as a memory foam topper. Also, density is directly proportional to the quality as well as cost of the foam. The higher the density of the foam, the higher the quality, and the more costly it will be. It is particularly important when choosing a topper because there are so many density options from which to choose from. The density of memory foam is measured in pounds per cubic foot.
Higher density foams have a longer “memory”, meaning they conform precisely to the body, and then regain their original shape rather slowly. High density foams also tend to change temperature more slowly, and will usually feel firmer at first, before body heat softens them. Those who prefer a firm sleep surface will be most comfortable on a topper with a density above 4 lbs/cubic foot. For those who prefer a softer sleep surface, a topper with a density above 3 lbs./cubic foot will work best.
When selecting the perfect memory foam mattress pad for your bed, avoid memory foam mattress pads made of low density foam. Low density memory foam mattress pads will not offer you the support that your body needs for a good nights sleep. With low density memory foam mattress pads your body will bottom out, offering no added support. Not only do low density memory foam mattress pads lack support, but the can actually decrease the quality of your sleep by causing your hips to sag, creating a hammock effect that decreases comfort. As a general guideline 4 pound memory foam mattress toppers are the minimum one should choose. The denser the foam, the better your sleep will be.
Thickness – Choosing the proper thickness of your topper is just as important as choosing the proper density, and the two are closely related. People who prefer a firm sleep surface, as well as those who prefer to sleep on their stomach, should go with a two inch, high density topper. The high density foam, (4 lbs/cubic foot, or more) will provide proper support, and the two inch thickness will keep stomach sleepers from sinking too deeply into the surface.
For side and back sleepers, or for those who sleep in a variety of positions, a three inch topper is usually the best way to go. Three inch toppers of a lower density, (three to four lbs/cubic foot) are also the best choice for those who prefer a soft sleep surface.
As a general rule, the higher the density, the thinner the pad can be while still providing proper support. With lower density foam, the pad will need to be thicker to provide adequate body support.
IFD (Previously called ILD-Indentation Load Deflection) – The IFD rating of the foam will determine the feel of the product. Most memory foams fall within the 10-14 ILD rating. The higher the IFD measurement the firmer the foam will feel. IFD is taken by measuring the force in pounds required to compress (indent) a sample of foam a specified percentage of its thickness across a surface area of 50 square inches. This is normally done on a 4 inch thick piece of foam. US foams are typically measured at 25% indentation or at a depth of 1” with a 4” foam sample. Firmness of the memory foam measured by IFD is an indicator of the surface feel of the foam, while support (density) is an indicator of the foams ability to support the load placed upon it.
Temperature Sensitivity – Memory foam is sensitive to temperature. It becomes softer as it heats up. This is one of the reasons that memory foam makes such a great sleep surface. Pressure points transfer more heat than other body parts, and that sensitivity allows the foam to react and conform to your body.
Some types of memory foam can be too sensitive, however. There have been customers complain about the firmness of their mattresses in cold climates. Below approximately 60 degrees, some foam can become too firm.
This excessive sensitivity to temperature is due to the particular formula used by some “mall brands.” Newer manufacturers have diminished this temperature sensitivity, in order to keep a more consistent feel, without sacrificing the ability to conform to the body’s shape.