Memory foam has been a popular choice of mattress material for over 3 decades. These comfortable mattresses distribute your weight evenly on the bed’s surface which ensures you get a sound sleep even if you are a restless sleeper who tosses and turns a lot.

Memory foam mattresses adjust to the sleeper’s body type and sleeping position which promotes a much better night’s sleep. But what exactly is a memory foam and how does it work?

If you have been wondering about it for a while then you are in luck because this is what this whole blog is all about. So, without any further ado, let’s jump right ahead and see what memory foams are all about.

• What is Memory Foam?

• Key Features of a Memory Foam

• What is Memory Foam Made Of?

• Construction of Memory Foam Mattresses

• How Do Memory Foams Work?

What is Memory Foam?

Memory foam is a polyurethane-based foam that has been treated with additional chemicals to increase its viscosity and density. This foam is sensitive to body heat which allows it to soften in places where it interacts with your body. The foam molds in the shape of your body which gives you enhanced comfort and pressure relief.

Origins

Interestingly, these foams were first designed for NASA for use in seats and seatbelts of spaceships to make sure the astronauts were able to do well under shocks and high pressure.

The foam was first conceived in 1960 by the Ames Research Center who proposed a new material that could help astronauts fare well under intense G-force during takeoffs and reentry.

However, NASA didn’t implement this foam due to a lack of evidence of its effectiveness. Later the rights of the memory foam were given to Fagerdala World Foams in the 1980s who were the first company to introduce this material for bedding in 1991.  

Currently, this foam finds applications in helmets, shoes, prosthetics, wheelchair seats, and more. However, the most common use of this foam is in memory foam mattresses.

Key Features of a Memory Foam

The following are the main features of memory foam sleep mattresses that set them apart:

• It is made from a viscoelastic material that has both viscous and shape-retaining features.

• It softens under the heat from your body and molds itself accordingly.

• It returns to its normal shape in 5 to 10 seconds once the weight is removed.

• Its sleep surface contours to the curves of the body of the sleeper.

• This foam provides full spinal alignment and lumbar support.

• The dense structure of these foams prevents the buildup of dust mites, mold, and other allergens.

• These foams reduce motion transfer which allows you to sleep soundly even when your partner moves around.

• These foams are quieter meaning they don’t produce squeaking or groaning noises when you move.

• These mattresses can last you from 7 to 10 years with just a little care.

What is Memory Foam Made Of?

Memory foams are made from a polymer called polyurethane. This foam is also referred to as viscoelastic polyurethane form or low-resistance polyurethane foam (LRPu). Various chemicals are also added to the mix which impact the foam’s elasticity and viscosity.

The following are the brief steps involved in the making of the memory foam.

• First, compounds called Polyols (derived from petroleum or plant oils), isocyanates (amine-derived compounds), and some reactive agents (catalysts) are mixed.

• The mixture is whipped into a thick froth and then added to a mold. This is followed by an exothermic reaction (heat releasing) which leads to the mixture bubbling up and forming the foam.

• This foamy mixture is then infused with a blowing agent that expands the cellular structure even further to cream the memory foam.

• The large chunk of the foam called “Bun” is then cooled. It is heated again and then left for curing which can take 8 hours to a few days.

• Then, the foam is washed and dried to remove residue.

• After drying, the foam is cut into pieces for use in mattresses, chairs, helmets, and more.

Construction of Memory Foam Mattresses

A simple memory foam has three basic parts:

• The Comfort Layer

This is the top part of the mattress that contains a few layers of foam to give you extra cushioning and contouring.

• The Transition Layer

This section contains one or more foam layers that are placed between the core and comfort layers of the foam. This slightly firmer part of the mattress helps wick away the heat from the upper layer.

• Core

The core or base of the mattress is the thicker and the firmest layer which gives stability to the mattress. This core also enhances the ventilation and bounce of the mattress.

The construction process involves first creating the core from polyurethane. Then, memory foam layers or other paddings are set above the core. The mattress is then covered with a flame-resistant fabric barrier sock. Finally, a finishing cover is added to protect the foam from damage and pollutants.

How Do Memory Foams Work?

The design of memory foam is so that it molds to the shape of your body in response to the heat and pressure that it generates. This evenly distributes your body weight on the foam’s surface which leads to a more relaxed sleep.

This foam softens with your body’s heat which makes room for it to contour according to your body’s curves and angles. 

When you apply sudden pressure to the memory foam, it absorbs the impact and changes its shape slowly. This cushions your body and creates a slow contouring feeling which eliminates discomfort even if you are a restless sleeper.

This foam’s viscosity decreases as the temperature increases. This means the foam becomes less stiff the longer you sleep on it. Thus, it generates a feeling of increasing softness after you have been lying on it for a while which leads to an excellent sleeping experience.

Conclusion

Memory foam has really revolutionized the mattress industry with its increased comfort, functionality, and durability. Made from polyurethane polymers, which are produced using polyols, these mattresses cater to all body types.

If you are looking for a mattress that allows you to sleep peacefully without noise or motion transfer, memory foam mattresses are your best bet. These low-maintenance, fire-resistant, and hypoallergenic mattresses ensure you get an uninterrupted good night’s sleep every single time.

You can visit us at NayamSleep to explore our wide range of top-quality memory foam mattresses and an exquisite variety of beds to enjoy a sound sleep every single day.