What is a Memory Foam Mattress?

A memory foam mattress consists of a base layer of springs or foam with a top layer of temperature-sensitive memory foam. This unique material reacts to your body heat and pressure, evenly distributing weight and contouring to your shape for a deeply personalised sleep experience.

Viscoelastic (memory foam) is slow to respond, when you press into it, it takes a few seconds to return to shape. That’s where the “memory” comes in: it remembers and gently adapts before bouncing back.

Because of its adaptive nature, memory foam relieves pressure points and supports spinal alignment. That “hug” sensation is especially appreciated by people with joint or back pain. As soon as your body heat and pressure are removed, the foam slowly returns to its original form.

If you're weighing up different mattress options, our Mattress Buying Guide breaks it all down clearly.

Types of Memory Foam

Memory foam has come a long way since the 1990s. New types are designed to improve airflow and address heat retention, which was a common complaint with traditional models.

Traditional

This is the original viscoelastic foam, known for its deep contouring and support. However, it can trap heat and feel warm to sleep on, especially in warmer months.

Open Cell

Designed with balloon-like air pockets, open cell foam improves airflow and makes the mattress feel cooler and less dense.

Gel-Infused

Gel-infused memory foam includes phase-change gel beads that draw heat away from the body. It’s a great option for warm sleepers who still want that classic foam feel.

Plant-Based

Made partly from natural oils instead of full petrochemicals, plant-based foams are a more eco-conscious alternative. They also tend to sleep cooler and respond faster than traditional memory foam.

Memory Foam Density

Density refers to how compact the foam is and has a big impact on firmness, support and durability. It’s measured in kilograms per cubic metre (kg/m³). In general, higher density = firmer feel and longer lifespan.

Here’s a quick guide:

Choosing the Right Density

• Lower-density foam (40–50kg) feels softer and lighter, but may not last as long.
• Higher-density foam (60kg+) offers more support and better pressure relief over time.
• Heavier sleepers or those with back pain often prefer higher-density options for firmer, more stable support.

Benefits of a Memory Foam Mattress

• Body Contouring: Foam moulds to your unique shape for targeted support and less pressure on hips, shoulders, and spine.
• Temperature Sensitivity: Reacts to your body heat for a more customised sleep feel.
• Pain Relief: Especially helpful for relieving back, joint and arthritis-related discomfort.
• Hypoallergenic: Dense foam naturally resists dust mites and allergens, great for sensitive sleepers.
• Motion Isolation: Perfect for couples, it limits motion transfer, so you won’t be disturbed by a restless partner.

Conclusion

If you’re after personalised comfort, pressure relief, and quieter sleep, a memory foam mattress is a solid investment. And with newer cooling technologies like gel and open-cell foam, even hot sleepers can now enjoy the benefits without overheating.