Looking to buy a new mattress? You may have heard of gel memory foam mattresses – they're becoming increasingly popular. But what are they, exactly? And is one right for you? The Sleep Judge has put together the ultimate guide to buying a gel memory foam mattress. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about these popular mattresses, including what they are, how they work, and the different types that are available.
We'll also discuss some of the pros and cons of choosing a gel memory foam mattress and provide you with some tips on how to find the perfect one for your needs. So, whether you're just starting your search or already narrowing down your options, read on.
The Basics: What Is Memory Foam?
Memory foam is a type of polyurethane foam that's made to contour to your body. It was originally developed by NASA in the 1960s for aircraft seats and later adapted for use in mattresses and other products. Memory foam gets its name from its ability to "remember" or return to its original shape after being compressed.
Gel memory foam is a type of memory foam infused with gel particles. These gel particles help to regulate body temperature, providing a cooler sleeping surface. Additionally, gel memory foam often has a more responsive feel than traditional memory foam, making it a good option for those who want the contouring properties of memory foam without the "sinking" feeling.
Now that you know the basics let's take a closer look at some of the benefits and drawbacks of choosing a gel memory foam mattress.
What Are the Benefits of Gel Memory Foam?
There are a few key benefits that gel memory foam offers over other types of mattresses:
Temperature Regulation
One of the most common complaints about memory foam is that it can sleep hot. Gel memory foam helps to address this issue by providing a cooler sleeping surface. The gel particles absorb and dissipate body heat, helping you stay comfortable throughout the night.
Pressure Relief
Memory foam is known for its ability to contour to your body and relieve pressure points. Gel memory foam takes this one step further by providing an even more responsive feel. This can be especially beneficial for those who suffer from pain or discomfort in their hips, shoulders, or back.
Motion Isolation
Gel memory foam does an excellent job of isolating motion, meaning you won't feel your partner tossing and turning during the night. This can be a godsend for light sleepers or those who share a bed with a restless partner.
Long Lasting
Memory foam mattresses are known for their durability, and gel memory foam is no exception. These mattresses often have a longer lifespan than other types of mattresses, making them a good investment for your long-term comfort.
Easy To Care For
Gel memory foam mattresses are generally low maintenance and easy to care for. Most of them don't need to be flipped or rotated; they can be spot cleaned.
What Are the Drawbacks of Gel Memory Foam?
There are a few potential drawbacks to consider before purchasing a gel memory foam mattress:
Cost
Gel memory foam mattresses often come with a higher price tag than other types of mattresses. However, they tend to be durable and long-lasting, so you may find the extra cost is worth it in the long run.
Off-gassing
All memory foam mattresses have an inherent risk of off-gassing – that is, they may emit a chemical smell when first unpacked. However, gel memory foam mattresses typically have less of an odor than other types of memory foam.
Initial Firmness
Gel memory foam mattresses are often quite firm when first unpackaged and may take some time to break in. However, once they're broken in, they contour well to your body and provide ample support.
How to Choose the Right Gel Memory Foam Mattress
Now that you know the pros and cons of gel memory foam mattresses, you may wonder how to choose the right one for your needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Size
When it comes to memory foam mattresses, size matters. Because they conform to the contours of your body, gel memory foam mattresses provide an incredibly supportive and comfortable sleeping surface. But not all memory foam mattresses are created equal, and it's important to choose the right size for your needs. Fortunately, gel memory foam mattresses are available in all standard sizes, from twin to king.
For couples, a queen or king-size mattress is best, as it provides plenty of room to move around during the night. For single sleepers, a full- or twin-size mattress may be more comfortable, as it takes up less space in the bedroom. However, it's ultimately up to the individual sleeper to decide which size mattress is right for them. Gel memory foam mattresses provide ample support and comfort for all types of sleepers, so any size can be a good choice.
Adjustment Period
Most companies that sell gel memory foam mattresses recommend giving them a few days to adjust to your body before making a final decision. This adjustment period is important, as it allows the mattress to break in and reach its full potential. Once the mattress has been broken in, it will be more comfortable and provide better support.
During the adjustment period, it's normal for the mattress to feel firmer than expected. This is because gel memory foam mattresses are designed to contour to your body over time. If you find the mattress too firm, try sleeping on it for a few more nights. In most cases, the mattress will soften up and become more comfortable after a few days of use.
It's also important to note that gel memory foam mattresses often take longer to break in than other types of mattresses. This is because they're denser and need more time to conform to your body. However, once they're broken in, gel memory foam mattresses provide excellent support and comfort for all types of sleepers.
Density of Layers
Gel memory foam mattresses typically have three layers: a base layer, a transition layer, and a top layer. The base layer is made of high-density foam that supports the mattress. The transition layer is made of medium-density foam that helps to transition between the firm base and the softer top layer. The top layer is made of soft gel memory foam that contours to your body and provides pressure relief.
When choosing a gel memory foam mattress, it's important to pay attention to the density of each layer. Look for a mattress with a high-density base layer for the most support. For more comfort, look for a mattress with a soft, gel-infused top layer. Ultimately, it's up to the individual sleeper to decide which density is best for them.
In terms of number, the density varies from 3lbs to 7lbs, with higher numbers indicative of a premium material. It's also important to keep in mind that the layers' density can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. For this reason, it's always best to read the product descriptions carefully before making a purchase. This will ensure that you're getting the right mattress for your needs.
Firmness Level
When it comes to firmness, gel memory foam mattresses can be classified as soft, medium, or firm. However, it's important to note that the firmness level is not always accurate. For example, a mattress classified as firm may be closer to medium in terms of firmness.
The best way to determine the firmness level of a mattress is to read the product descriptions carefully. This will give you a good idea of how the mattress feels and whether it's right for you. It's also a good idea to read customer reviews, as they can provide helpful insights into the feel of the mattress.
Allergy Considerations
If you suffer from allergies, it's important to choose a hypoallergenic gel memory foam mattress. This will help reduce the risk of allergic reactions and ensure that you can sleep comfortably. There are many different types of hypoallergenic mattresses on the market, so it's important to do your research before making a purchase.
Our Recommendation: MLILY Dreamer Gel Memory Foam Mattress
The MLILY Dreamer is our top pick for the best gel memory foam mattress. This mattress is made of high-quality materials and provides excellent support for all types of sleepers. The gel-infused top layer contours to your body and provides pressure relief, while the high-density base layer offers superior support. The MLILY Dreamer is also hypoallergenic and comes with a 10-year warranty. This makes it an excellent choice for those who suffer from allergies or want a mattress that will last for years to come.
The Bottom Line
Gel memory foam mattresses are a great choice for those who want the contouring support of memory foam without the heat retention. These mattresses are made of high-quality materials and offer superior support for all types of sleepers. When choosing a gel memory foam mattress, it's important to pay attention to the density of the layers and the firmness level. Additionally, if you suffer from allergies, be sure to choose a hypoallergenic mattress.
