Top Memory Foam Myths Busted

If you have been shopping for or researching a memory foam mattress, there’s a good chance you’ve heard a few things, such as “memory foam is hot” or “memory foam is unhealthy”. Usually, these claims are made without much substantiation other than anecdotal accounts, but can be enough to cause concern for many people. In the myths below, we’ll do our best to present an accurate portrait of memory foam so readers can make an informed decision.

Myth - Memory foam makes you sweat!

Fact - On average, only 10% of people who own any brand of memory foam mattress complain about heat. This is higher than spring mattresses, which average heat complaint rates of 5%. However, there are significant differences between different types of memory foam. Traditional foam mattresses tend to sleep hot for 10-15% of people, gel memory foam 5-10%, and plant-based memory foams 2-8%.

Myth - Memory foam stinks

Fact - Memory foam can have a smell, especially when it is sealed in plastic right after it is manufactured. However, odors should dissipate within a few days to a few weeks. Denser memory foams are more likely to smell, while less dense foams or ones that use less petroleum products or VOC-producing chemicals are less likely to have strong smells.

In general, about 15% of all memory foam mattress owners complain of odor, with only 2% reporting odor severe enough to return their bed. However, these rates vary considerably by brands and types of memory foam.

Myth - Memory foam feels like quicksand

Fact - This myth is true, but only for dense foams (over 5.0 lbs) with temperature-sensitive properties. Foams that are temperature-neutral contour instantly with pressure, and respond quicker to sleepers’ movements. This eliminates the sinking sensation, and because the memory foam is temperature-stable, the firmness is consistent across the mattress surface.

Myth - Memory foam is expensive

Fact - Memory foam does cost more to produce than standard polyurethane foams, but today, many manufacturers make the material. Because memory foam is produced in greater quantities and there is now greater marketplace competition, many affordable brands have popped up.

So, now you know the truth about memory foam. Just like with other all legends, memory foam mattress myths are part fact and part fiction, so don’t be sold or scared by statements that all memory is hot or all memory foam smells. Knowing what differentiates types of memory foam and what actually impacts comfort and satisfaction are important when shopping for a new bed, and researching rather than accepting memory foam mattress myths or anecdotes at face value can help you choose the right mattress for your needs without missing out on comfort.