Mattress Guides
Best Mattresses of 2021
We've personally tested, rated, and reviewed over 150 mattresses. See our top picks for 2021!
At Mattress Advisor, you’ll find comprehensive, unbiased reviews on the best mattresses and bedding products and thoroughly researched tips for getting your best sleep.
Foam mattresses make up a substantial sector of the mattress market. Memory foam, high-density foam, and latex foam; there are plenty of choices when it comes to purchasing a mattress. So, how do you know what is right for you? Are high-density foam mattresses better than low or medium density? Is density the same as firmness? How do you know what is the perfect fit? There are specific criteria to consider if you want to be an educated buyer; we are here to help you through the process.
There are three basic categories of foam mattresses: polyfoam, memory foam, and latex foam. Tthere are additional subcategories and different characteristics for each as well. To generalize, all three can make great beds, they are comfortable, have great support for the right person, and lack a classic innerspring structure. They are constructed with different materials, all come in different densities, and have slightly different pros and cons. Here is an overview:
All foam mattresses, irrespective of the specific foam, have a density rating. What the rating tells you is the amount of foam per square foot of the mattress. What it does not tell you is the firmness of the mattress, but denser is not necessarily firmer. Density is generally rated on a continuum from low to high based on the amount of material.
Foam Densities | Polyfoam | Memory Foam | Latex Foam |
Low-Density | Under 1.5 lbs. per ft. | Under 4.0 lbs. per ft. | Under 4.2 lbs. per ft. |
Medium-Density | 1.5 – 1.8 lbs. per ft. | 4.0 – 5.0 lbs. per ft. | 4.3 – 5.3 lbs. per ft. |
High-Density | Over 1.8 lbs. per ft. | 5.0 – 6.0 lbs. per ft. | Over 5.3 lbs. per ft. |
In addition to density, there is an Indentation Load Deflection (ILD) rating. To determine the rating, pressure is applied to the mattress to determine firmness, based on how quickly it returns to its original shape when the pressure is lifted determines the rating. The mattress may get a score somewhere between 14 which is fairly soft, to 44 which would be very firm. The ILD score and the density rating together constitute how comfortable the mattress is.
For some people they definitely are. You need to look at a number of variables to make that determination. If you have a higher body weight, have back pain, want a long-lasting mattress, and are willing to spend the money, a high-density foam mattress may be just perfect. Everyone can find the right density based on who they are and how they like to sleep.
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