The Different Types of Memory Foam Mattresses
Not all memory foam mattresses are made purely of memory foam. Usually, they are paired with synthetic or natural materials and springs to create a hybrid mattress.
They can also have unique features such as:
- Arriving rolled up
- Being double or single-sided
- Having hypoallergenic properties
This guide outlines common types of memory foam mattresses, including their particular features, variations, potential benefits, and mattress care tips.
Rolled memory foam mattresses
Some memory foam mattresses arrive rolled up and possibly in a box (also known as ‘bed in a box’ mattresses). They are one of the most popular types of mattresses.
This is because they are super convenient to have delivered straight to your home and they can easily be moved to your room of choice.
Popular rolled memory foam mattress brands include:
- Emma
- Simba
- SleepSoul
It is important to remember that once a memory foam mattress has been unrolled, it cannot be rolled back up. This is because these mattresses are compressed by specialised machinery and are only designed to expand once.
Here’s an example of a mattress being unrolled:
Here are some common questions that our customers ask before buying a rolled-up memory foam mattress:
Can you compress a memory foam mattress?
No, you cannot re-compress or re-roll a memory foam mattress once it has fully expanded.
This can severely damage the fillings in your mattress, which can affect its look and feel.
Can you fold a memory foam mattress?
No, you cannot fold your memory foam mattress or any other type of mattress.
You risk damaging the springs, fillings or comfort layers beyond repair and invalidating your guarantee or warranty if you attempt to fold your mattress.
How long does it take a memory foam mattress to expand?
This varies between different brands, but the usual recommendation is to leave your mattress for at least 8 hours before sleeping on it - longer, if possible.
Some manufacturers advise leaving the memory foam to expand for 24 or 48 hours before using it, so you should always make sure to check the care guide that comes with your mattress.
This should give the foam and fillings enough time to fully expand and settle. Sleeping on the mattress as soon as it appears to have reached its full size can potentially damage and misshape the foam or springs inside.
Double & single-sided memory foam mattresses
All mattresses are either double-sided or single-sided. Memory foam mattresses are almost always single-sided.
This is because memory foam mattresses are typically constructed with multiple layers arranged in a specific order: a denser, supportive base layer at the bottom and a softer comfort layer on top. Flipping the mattress would reverse this design, placing the firmer support layer on top, which could reduce comfort and support.
In some cases, flipping a single-sided memory foam mattress might also damage the foam or affect how well it performs over time. Instead of flipping, these mattresses should be rotated head-to-foot regularly to help maintain even wear.
Can you flip a memory foam mattress?
You can flip a memory foam mattress only if the care guide states that your mattress is double-sided and instructs you to do so.
If your memory foam mattress is single-sided, you should only rotate your mattress from top to bottom every season rather than flipping it over.
What are hybrid memory foam mattresses?
Memory foam mattresses don’t usually consist only of memory foam - the foam is generally paired with other comfort or support layers.
Most retailers will offer a range of different types of memory foam mattresses for you to choose from. Below we’ll explain the four most popular types of memory foam hybrid mattresses.
Synthetic memory foam hybrids
Synthetic memory foam hybrid mattresses are made up of a layer of memory foam and then a top layer of another synthetic material such as:
- Gel foam
- Reflex foam
- Latex
Gel foam
A gel foam layer on top of a memory foam support block can offer a cooling effect. These mattresses are specifically designed to offer better temperature regulation than pure memory foam mattresses. They typically contain gel particles, beads, or layers infused into the foam. The gel components aim to absorb and dissipate body heat, but the level of effectiveness can vary depending on the type of gel used, how it’s incorporated into the design and whether it's combined with other features like breathable covers or open-cell foam for example.
Reflex foam
Reflex foam can be used as a supportive base layer in synthetic memory foam or hybrid mattresses. It provides a durable, stable foundation, but can also be used as a transitional layer between softer upper layers and firmer base layers. In some designs, reflex foam is used to provide perimeter support. It offers value for money, a denser structure and can help reduce motion transfer.
Latex
It’s not often that latex and memory foam are combined in a hybrid mattress, but the combination can provide enhanced responsiveness, breathability and pressure-relieving comfort. The latex used can be natural, synthetic or blended, and it typically sits above or below the memory foam laye,r depending on the feel and function of the mattress.
Sprung memory foam hybrids
‘Sprung’ mattresses simply refer to any type of mattresses that include springs, whether that be:
- Pocket sprung
- Standard sprung (also known as open coil)
- Zoned spring units
- Mini spring layers
Some manufacturers also offer proprietary spring systems based on these core designs. For example, Miracoil and Mirapocket are Silentnight’s branded versions of open coil and pocket sprung systems, respectively.
Pocket sprung
Pocket sprung memory foam hybrids are made with springs that are individually wrapped in their own fabric pocket for more flexible support.
Standard sprung
Standard sprung hybrid mattresses often have higher firmness levels as the springs used are all interconnected throughout the base of the mattress.
Memory foam mattress features
‘Features’ of memory foam mattresses differ from ‘types’ of memory foam mattresses. All mattress types can have certain features added to them for extra benefits. These include:
- Arriving rolled up
- Being hypoallergenic
- Having a pillow top
These features aren't exclusive to memory foam mattresses, but they are something to bear in mind when looking for a replacement mattress.
Rolled up memory foam mattresses
As explained above, many memory foam mattresses can arrive rolled up in a box so that it’s easier to carry them to your bedroom. Their compact form takes up less space during storage and transport which can make delivery more efficient. They fit through narrow hallways and can be easily carried up staircases, which can be helpful for positioning mattresses in smaller spaces or for delivery to homes with limited access.
Hypoallergenic memory foam mattresses
Some memory foam mattresses can be described as hypoallergenic, meaning that they are made from materials less likely to trigger allergic reactions. These mattresses may feature dense foam that is less hospitable to dust mites and mould, or covers treated to resist common allergens.
However, hypoallergenic doesn’t necessarily mean completely allergen-free. Sensitivities vary from person to person, and no single mattress can eliminate every risk. Additional measures - such as using mattress protectors, washing bedding regularly and maintaining good ventilation - may also help reduce allergen exposure.
Pillow top memory foam mattresses
For an added touch of luxury and comfort, a memory foam mattress may feature a pillow top layer. This extra layer is stitched directly onto the surface of the mattress, creating a soft, cushioned feel without compromising the support beneath.
Memory foam mattresses come in a wide range of types and constructions, each offering different benefits depending on how you sleep, what support you need, and what kind of comfort you prefer. If you’re ready to explore, why not browse through our memory foam mattresses?
Want to learn more about memory foam mattresses? Check out the following advice guides for more information:
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