Memory Gel Mattresses
The story behind memory foam goes back to the 1960s when researchers for NASA were looking for ways test pilots could keep it cushioned during flights. They came up with memory foam, which would cushion the pilots and find its way into the American football team’s helmets, the Dallas Cowboys, during the 1970s and 1980s. Who knew?
Memory foam is common in mattresses, couches, chairs, and cinema seats today. Still, you might have also noticed a slightly newer kid on the block in the bedding industry: memory gel. What’s this all about? What are ‘memory gel’ mattresses? We’re glad you asked because we’ve produced a short guide.
What is a memory gel mattress?
Like memory foam, memory gel mattresses offer extra comfort and support, have a sprung or foam base, and are made from viscoelastic. The difference is that their manufacturers have also incorporated memory gel.
This could be in the form of gel beads, gel particles, gel layers, thermal gel, or phase-changing gel (a type of gel that changes from solid to liquid when it detects body heat) - so that the user can stay cool at night.
Like memory foam, memory gel mattresses mould to the shape of the person’s body while they’re sleeping rather than fighting back against the pressure the way a regular mattress would. The foam in the mattress returns to its standard shape when the person gets off it. It’s because of these features that they’re so comfortable.
The problem is that memory foam tends to get warm because the air gets trapped in the foam, so manufacturers developed memory gel. These mattresses are as comfortable as their memory foam siblings. Still, the memory gel’s infusion into the mattress helps it stay more breathable, keeping the person sleeping on the mattress cooler at night. It’s like having a gel ice pack in the mattress.
Does memory gel affect the mattress’s durability?
Memory foam and memory gel haven’t been around long enough to make more general statements about their durability. That doesn’t mean it’s not possible at all to gauge it. The key to estimating memory foam durability lies in density.
This is because of the way the mattresses are manufactured. Whereas a high density of 1.5 to 1.8 lbs per cubic foot would suggest a good quality polyfoam mattress, a density of 4 to 5 per cubic foot would be a better indicator of memory foam, whether a memory gel or memory foam mattress is good quality. Choose one with this density level; expecting the mattress to last a good while would be reasonable.
Note that as time goes on, the coolant effects of the mattress may start to wear off, although this shouldn’t make a difference as it’s good to replace a mattress, in general, every 7 to 10 years.
What type of mattress is best?
Only you can decide whether to buy a memory gel mattress or not, but when you’re choosing your mattress, you may want to consider the following things:
- Are you purchasing the mattress because of the comfort factor?
If your current mattress is uncomfortable, you may prefer a hybrid mattress that combines memory gel and pocket springs to get plenty of comfort and support when you sleep. - Are you sensitive to the temperatures?
A memory gel mattress might be the solution so that the temperatures are no longer a factor in keeping you up at night. - What’s your budget?
- How much are you willing to spend on a new mattress?
- Is it within your price range, and is the spending worth it?
- What size is it?
- Will it fit the bed?
- How firm is the mattress?
- Will it provide the right level of comfort and support you need?
Careful consideration of these factors will help you make the right decision. If you’re unsure, you can talk to the retailer, who can offer advice and help you decide which type of mattress is best for you.
How much do memory gel mattresses cost?
At Bedstar, if you’re in luck and order a mattress during a sale, depending on the size, type, and brand you order, you may be able to pick up a mattress for as little as £349. Outside of the sales, you can expect to pay approximately £436.00 up to anything over £1,000. It all comes down to your requirements and budget.
Remember, we offer financing options, too, so if you fancy investing in a memory gel mattress after reading this post but don’t think your budget will allow it, chat with one of the Bedstar team first. You can discuss payment plans with the company, so you don’t have to rule out the extra comfort you desire when buying a memory gel mattress.