subject: Sleep Better On A Memory Foam Bed [print this page] Memory foam came about in the early 1970's when NASA started an experimental project intended to invent a substance that could help relieve the discomfort astronauts experienced during lift-off. During the course of research, a new foam material, called visco elastic, was created that was able to conform to a person's shape and then return to its own natural shape when pressure was removed. The foam allowed for the even distribution of body weight over the whole surface of the foam, quickly adapting to any movements of the body. Tempurpedic introduced the earliest memory foam beds in 1992, to great success.
A visco memory foam mattress is not what you would call a "soft" mattress. It molds and contours to your body, and the contouring effect spreads that weight over more of the sleeping surface, thus eliminating pressure points. On an ordinary spring bed, pressure points can create pain and cause you to toss and turn, so memory foam's contouring characteristics will allow for a better night's sleep.
The foam also has an open cell structure making it possible for the bed to breathe. This feature leaves the surface of the mattress comfortable by repelling dampness and dissipating body heat.
Visco foam is highly resistant to mold, mildew, bacteria and other odor causing germs. Because many people suffer from allergies, visco can assist in improving your overall health and comfort by reducing the presence of these allergens in the bedroom.
Visco foam also works to lessen motion transfer between you and your partner, so if one of you moves during the night, it won't rouse and disturb the other. Less disturbance from movement means a deeper, more peaceful sleep.
Box springs are not required for memory foam beds given that they don't need the support that a spring mattress does. While you might want one to raise the height of the mattress, a quality memory foam mattress will give you all the support you need on any even surface.
Be on the lookout for inferior quality imitations that don't carry a good warranty. Be careful when ordering foam mattresses made outside the US since quality tends to vary.
