Gel Memory Foam
Memory foam became super popular in the 90s when notable commercials showed actors jumping on the mattress while the glass of wine positioned on the other side of the mattress stayed unspilled.
Besides excellent motion isolation, memory foam became the favorite of sleepers everywhere because of its soft touch, ability to conform to any body type, pressure point relief, excellent spinal support, and exceptional comfort.
So, what is memory foam exactly, and why is it so comfortable?
What Is Memory Foam?
Memory foam was designed by NASA in the 1960s, as they needed a material for airplane seats that’s soft and energy absorbent. Memory foam would evenly distribute the weight and protect the pilots from the impact. In addition, it was very comfortable.
Designers and engineers quickly realized the potential of memory foam, and they began using it as cushioning in helmets, shoes, and seating pads. Then the popularity took off in the 90s, and memory foam is now commonly used in mattresses, pillows, and other bedding accessories.
What Is Memory Foam Made of and How Does It Work?
Memory foam is made from an incredibly versatile polymer called polyurethane, with the addition of different chemicals that provide its contouring properties. The main property of memory foam is viscoelasticity. That means that it is viscous, so it can change shape under pressure. It’s also elastic, meaning that it can stretch considerably and then return to its original form.
Each manufacturer has a secret recipe of chemicals added to their memory foam to provide the ultimate comfort. Still, almost everybody uses a certain amount of polyether polyol that’s vital for viscoelastic properties.
When you lay down on the memory foam mattress, your body applies pressure and heat on the surface, which softens the memory foam and it slowly sinks, contouring to your body. When you get up, you can see it slowly going back to its original shape.
Our Dozy Mattress is a memory foam mattress that can be customized to any size.
What Are the Different Types of Memory Foam?
There are three types of memory foam: traditional, open-celled, and gel memory foam. Each one has unique features that can improve your nightly rest.
Traditional Memory Foam
Traditional memory foam mattresses became popular in the 90s, and they are what people think of when they hear memory foam. It’s made from polyurethane, with a closed-cell structure, which traps heat during the night. That’s why it is not the best option for hot sleepers or people living in warm climates.
Traditional memory foam compresses around your body curves during the night, creating a soft and comfortable experience for sleepers.
Open-Cell Memory Foam
These types of mattresses are made of memory foam that is injected with air during the manufacturing process. That creates millions of tiny air bubbles that allow air to circulate without trapping the heat like the traditional ones.
Open-cell memory foam mattresses are generally softer and less dense, which can affect their durability.
Gel Memory Foam
The gel is usually injected into the mattress during the manufacturing process in the form of microbeads. They create pockets similar to those in open-celled memory foam, but the goal of these microbeads is to absorb the heat. While some mattresses have gel microbeads throughout, most models have gel-infused top comfort layers.
The great thing about these gels is that they are made of phase-changing materials, which means that they can absorb heat and release it, allowing your sleeping surface to remain cool. Gel memory foam mattresses still have all the properties of traditional memory foam, but they are more durable than the open-celled ones.
What Is Arctic-PUR™ Foam?
Arctic-PUR™ is a unique foam designed by CustomMattress.com. It has all the properties of traditional memory foam, including pressure relief, contouring, and overall comfort. However, it sleeps much cooler than the coolest memory foam out there. It also bounces back almost instantly, so you won’t ever feel like you are sunk inside your mattress, as this is why some people don’t like the overall experience of memory foam.
In addition, Arctic-PUR™ is made with no ozone depleters, heavy metals, formaldehyde, flame retardants, and phthalates.
Do you know that strange smell when you unpack a new memory foam mattress? It comes from volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and can last for days. VOC emissions are very low in Arctic-PUR™ foam, so there is almost no off-gassing.
Where Can I Buy a Top-Quality Foam Mattress?
At CustomMattress.com, we have several high-quality foam mattresses that can transform your sleep. The best thing is they are entirely customizable, so you can order any size you want. That is perfect if you have an odd-sized bed and can’t find the right mattress anywhere.
Take a look at our foam mattress selection, pick your favorite, and take advantage of our free delivery.