The Complete Guide to Memory Foam vs. Regular Foam

08/30/2024

Ben Trapskin

I have carefully studied and evaluated many mattresses, sheets, pillows, duvet inserts, comforters, sleep gadgets, and adjustable beds for over a deca... Full Bio

The #1 Guide to Memory Foam vs. Regular Foam: Pros, Cons and Your Best Options in 2024

Why Memory Foam vs. Regular Foam Matters

When it comes to finding the perfect mattress, understanding the differences between memory foam vs. regular foam is crucial. Here’s a quick comparison to get you started:

Memory Foam:
Pros: Superior pressure relief, excellent motion isolation, durable.
Cons: Retains heat, more expensive, minimal bounce.
Regular Foam:
Pros: Balanced feel, cooler, budget-friendly.
Cons: Less contouring, variable performance, higher motion transfer.

Choosing the right mattress can significantly impact your sleep quality and overall health. At Yawnder, we specialize in helping you steer these choices, ensuring you find a mattress that meets your specific needs and preferences.

My name is Ben Trapskin, and I founded Yawnder to guide people like you through the complexities of mattress shopping. From experience, I know how vital it is to understand the differences between memory foam and regular foam. Let’s dive deeper into this topic and find the best mattress for you.

What is Memory Foam?

Memory foam is a special type of polyurethane foam known for its unique properties. Originally developed by NASA in the 1960s, it was designed to improve seat cushioning and crash protection for astronauts. This foam has since found its way into our homes, particularly in mattresses, thanks to its ability to provide exceptional comfort and support.

Viscoelastic Properties

Memory foam is often called “viscoelastic foam,” which means it has both viscous and elastic properties.

Viscous: The foam is slow to change shape, allowing it to mold to your body contours.
Elastic: It can return to its original form once the pressure is removed.

This dual nature is what gives memory foam its signature “hugging” feel.

Pressure Relief

One of the most significant advantages of memory foam is its ability to relieve pressure points. It conforms to the shape of your body, distributing your weight evenly and reducing stress on areas like your shoulders, hips, and back.

Imagine lying on a cloud that supports every curve of your body—this is what makes memory foam a favorite among people with joint or back pain, including conditions like arthritis and sciatica.

Motion Isolation

If you share your bed, you’ll appreciate memory foam’s excellent motion isolation. The dense structure of the foam absorbs movement, meaning you’re less likely to be disturbed if your partner tosses and turns.

“Memory foam’s unique property is its ability to slowly conform to a person’s body shape and weight. When someone moves, the foam compresses directly under them, absorbing the energy of that movement rather than transferring it across the mattress surface.” – Yawnder

Heat Retention

One downside of traditional memory foam is that it tends to retain heat. The dense structure that provides such great support also traps heat, which can make sleeping uncomfortable, especially for hot sleepers. However, manufacturers have developed various solutions to address this issue.

Gel-infused Memory Foam

Gel-infused memory foam incorporates gel particles or beads into the foam. These gels help to dissipate heat more effectively, providing a cooler sleep surface. This type of foam can be particularly beneficial for those who find traditional memory foam too warm.

Graphite Foam

Graphite foam is another innovation aimed at improving cooling. Infused with graphite, this foam offers lower density and higher thermal diffusivity, which means it can distribute heat more evenly and keep you cooler throughout the night.

Copper Foam

Copper-infused memory foam is known for its antimicrobial properties and excellent heat conductivity. Copper particles help to wick away heat and keep the sleeping surface cool, while also providing a cleaner sleeping environment.

“To offset the heat, memory foam does have a few tricks it can use. There are special additives that when mixed with memory foam during manufacturing allow for the foam to perform better than it usually would.” – Yawnder

In summary, memory foam offers a unique combination of comfort, support, and motion isolation, making it a popular choice for many sleepers. However, its tendency to retain heat has led to various innovations like gel, graphite, and copper infusions to improve its cooling properties.

Next, let’s explore what regular foam is and how it compares to memory foam.

What is Regular Foam?

Regular foam, often called polyurethane foam or polyfoam, is a versatile material used in a variety of mattresses. Unlike memory foam, which is known for its contouring and slow response, regular foam offers a range of properties depending on its type and density.

Types of Polyfoam

Polyfoam comes in various forms, each suited for different needs. Here are the main types:

High-Resilience Polyfoam: This type is more elastic and responsive, offering a balance between softness and support. It’s durable and often used in high-quality mattresses.
Low-Density Foam: Typically softer and less durable, low-density foam is often used in budget mattresses or as a comfort layer.
High-Density Foam: Known for its durability and support, high-density foam is often used as a base layer in mattresses. It provides long-lasting support but can be firmer.

Open-Cell Foam vs. Closed-Cell Foam

The structure of the foam cells can also impact its performance:

Open-Cell Foam: This type has a more porous structure, allowing for better airflow and heat dissipation. It’s often used to make mattresses more breathable and cooler.
Closed-Cell Foam: Denser and less breathable, closed-cell foam offers excellent support but can retain more heat. It’s less commonly used in mattresses due to its reduced airflow.

High-Resilience Polyfoam

High-resilience (HR) foam is a standout in the polyfoam category. It’s known for its increased elasticity and quick response time. This makes it ideal for people who want a supportive yet bouncy feel. HR foam is durable and helps promote proper spinal alignment, making it a popular choice for premium mattresses.

Low-Density Foam

Low-density foam is usually softer and less durable. It’s often used in budget mattresses or as a top comfort layer. While it provides initial softness, it may not offer the long-term support and durability found in higher-density foams.

High-Density Foam

High-density foam is the go-to for support layers in mattresses. Its firm structure provides excellent support and durability. Although it can be less comfortable initially, it offers long-lasting support and is often used as the base layer in many mattresses.

Open-Cell Foam

Open-cell foam features a porous structure that allows for better airflow. This helps in dissipating heat, making the mattress cooler. It’s often used in memory foam mattresses to counteract heat retention but is also found in polyfoam mattresses for added breathability.

Closed-Cell Foam

Closed-cell foam is denser and less breathable. While it offers excellent support, it can retain more heat. This type of foam is less common in mattresses due to its reduced airflow but can be found in specialized applications requiring firm support.

In summary, regular foam, or polyfoam, offers a range of options from soft and budget-friendly to durable and supportive. The type and density of polyfoam can significantly impact the feel and performance of a mattress. Whether you need a breathable, cooling mattress or a supportive, durable one, there’s likely a type of polyfoam that fits your needs.

Next, we’ll dive into the key differences between memory foam and regular foam to help you decide which is best for you.

Memory Foam vs. Regular Foam: Key Differences

Choosing between memory foam and regular foam can be tricky. Let’s break down the key differences to help you make an informed decision.

Density

Memory Foam:
Memory foam is typically denser than regular foam. High-density memory foam (rated 6 or higher) offers more durability and support. However, it can also trap more heat.

Regular Foam:
Regular foam, or polyfoam, varies widely in density. High-resilience polyfoam can be just as dense and durable as memory foam. Low-density polyfoam is more budget-friendly but less durable.

Contour and Hug

Memory Foam:
Known for its deep contour, memory foam molds to your body, providing a “hugging” sensation. This is great for pressure relief, especially for side sleepers.

Regular Foam:
Polyfoam offers a more balanced feel with less contour. It supports your body without that sinking feeling, making it easier to move around.

Response Time

Memory Foam:
Memory foam has a slower response time. When you move, it takes a moment to reshape. This can make you feel “stuck” in the mattress.

Regular Foam:
Polyfoam responds quickly, bouncing back almost immediately. This makes it better for sex and for those who change positions frequently during the night.

Motion Transfer

Memory Foam:
Memory foam excels at isolating motion. If your partner tosses and turns, you’re less likely to feel it. This makes it ideal for couples.

Regular Foam:
Polyfoam generally has higher motion transfer. You might feel your partner’s movements more, which could disturb your sleep.

Edge Support

Memory Foam:
Memory foam often lacks strong edge support. Sitting or sleeping near the edge can feel unstable.

Regular Foam:
Polyfoam usually offers better edge support, especially in higher-density versions. This makes the entire surface of the mattress more usable.

Cooling Properties

Memory Foam:
Memory foam tends to retain heat, making it warmer to sleep on. However, gel-infused and open-cell memory foams offer better cooling.

Regular Foam:
Polyfoam generally sleeps cooler. Its open-cell structure allows for better airflow, which helps dissipate heat.

Price

Memory Foam:
Memory foam mattresses are usually more expensive due to their advanced manufacturing process and materials.

Regular Foam:
Polyfoam mattresses are typically cheaper. They offer a range of options that can fit different budgets.

Durability

Memory Foam:
High-density memory foam is very durable and can last a long time. However, low-density versions may wear out faster.

Regular Foam:
The durability of polyfoam varies. High-resilience polyfoam can be as durable as memory foam, while low-density versions may not last as long.

Understanding these key differences can help you choose the mattress that best fits your needs. Next, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of each foam type to give you a clearer picture.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Memory Foam

Pressure Relief

One of the standout features of memory foam is its exceptional pressure relief. Memory foam is designed to contour to your body’s shape, which helps distribute weight evenly. This reduces pressure points, especially in areas like your hips and shoulders. If you suffer from joint pain or arthritis, memory foam can be a game-changer.

“Memory foam is known for its ability to deliver premium pressure relief,” says Yawnder.

Motion Isolation

Memory foam excels at motion isolation. This means that if you or your partner toss and turn at night, the movements won’t disturb the other person. The foam absorbs the motion, making it ideal for couples.

“Memory foam’s dense structure isolates movement transfer,” notes Yawnder.

Heat Retention

A common drawback of memory foam is heat retention. The dense material tends to trap heat, which can be uncomfortable for hot sleepers. However, modern memory foams often include cooling technologies like gel, copper, or graphite to mitigate this issue.

“Many bedding companies have implemented special cooling properties into their memory foams,” according to Yawnder.

Poor Edge Support

Edge support can be a weak point for memory foam mattresses. When you sit or lie near the edge, you might feel like you’re going to roll off. This can be inconvenient, especially if you share your bed and need to use the full surface area.

“Memory foam is known for its compression and contours, which may cause the mattress to feel unsupportive at the edges,” explains Yawnder.

Minimal Bounce

Memory foam has minimal bounce, which means it doesn’t spring back as quickly as other materials like latex or coils. This can make it harder to move around or change sleeping positions, which might be a downside for combination sleepers or those with limited mobility.

“Memory foam returns to its original position at a slower rate than quick-response materials,” highlights Yawnder.

Higher Cost

Memory foam mattresses are often more expensive than regular foam mattresses. The high-quality materials and advanced design contribute to the higher price tag. However, the durability and benefits can make it a worthwhile investment.

“Memory foam’s better quality means it will also come at a higher price,” states Yawnder.

Understanding these advantages and disadvantages can help you decide if memory foam is the right choice for you. Next, we’ll look at the pros and cons of regular foam to give you a balanced view.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Regular Foam

When considering a mattress, it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of regular foam. Here’s a quick rundown to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.

Balanced Feel

Regular foam, also known as polyfoam, offers a balanced feel. This means it provides support without making you feel like you’re sinking too much into the mattress. Unlike memory foam, which has a deeper hug, regular foam gives you a more stable surface to sleep on.

Faster Response Time

One of the standout features of regular foam is its faster response time. When you move or change positions, the foam quickly springs back. This makes it easier to move around and reduces the chance of feeling “stuck.”

Better Cooling

Regular foam generally has better cooling properties compared to memory foam. Memory foam tends to retain heat, which can make you feel warm during the night. In contrast, regular foam, especially open-cell foam, allows for better airflow, keeping you cooler.

“Poly foams or latex foams have less contour and the properties of their composition limit heat dissipation and sleepers generally sleep cooler,” says Yawnder.

Higher Motion Transfer

A downside of regular foam is higher motion transfer. Because it doesn’t absorb movement as well as memory foam, you might feel your partner tossing and turning. This can be a drawback if you’re a light sleeper.

Variable Performance

The performance of regular foam can vary widely. Low-quality polyfoam might break down faster and lose its supportive qualities. On the other hand, high-resilience polyfoam can offer excellent durability and comfort. The key is to look for high-quality materials.

Lower Cost

One of the biggest advantages of regular foam is its cost. Generally, it is less expensive than memory foam. This makes it a good option if you’re on a budget but still want a comfortable mattress.

“The budget is the critical thing for the foam mattress types. If you want high-quality memory foam that sounds good for your health, then it is somewhat expensive,” states Reddit.

In summary, regular foam offers a balanced feel, faster response time, and better cooling at a lower cost. However, it does come with higher motion transfer and variable performance. Next, we’ll explore which type of foam is best suited for different needs and preferences.

Memory Foam vs. Regular Foam: Which is Best for You?

Choosing between memory foam vs. regular foam depends on several factors like your sleeping position, body weight, budget, cooling needs, motion isolation needs, and edge support needs. Let’s explore each of these considerations.

Sleeping Positions

Side Sleepers: Memory foam is excellent for side sleepers because it provides deep contouring and pressure relief for the shoulders and hips. For example, the BedInABox is highly rated for its contouring properties.
Back Sleepers: Both memory foam and regular foam can work well. Memory foam offers better spinal alignment, while regular foam provides balanced support.
Stomach Sleepers: Regular foam is generally better for stomach sleepers because it has a faster response time and prevents the “sinking in” feeling.

Body Weight

Lightweight Sleepers (<130 lbs): Memory foam can offer more comfort due to its contouring effect. However, lightweight sleepers might find it too warm.
Average Weight Sleepers (130-230 lbs): Both types work well, but memory foam offers better motion isolation and pressure relief.
Heavyweight Sleepers (>230 lbs): High-resilience polyfoam is a better option as it provides more support and durability. Memory foam may not offer enough support and could sag over time.

Budget

Low Budget: Regular foam is generally more affordable. Mattresses like the Leesa Original offer good performance at a lower cost.
High Budget: If you can spend more, memory foam provides advanced features like cooling gels and better motion isolation, making it worth the investment.

Cooling Needs

Hot Sleepers: Regular foam, especially open-cell foam, sleeps cooler. Memory foam tends to retain heat, although options like gel-infused memory foam can help mitigate this issue.
Cool Sleepers: Memory foam can provide a cozy, warmer sleep environment, which might be more comfortable for those who get cold easily.

Motion Isolation Needs

Light Sleepers: Memory foam excels in motion isolation. If your partner tosses and turns, a memory foam mattress like the GhostBed Luxe can help you sleep undisturbed.
Heavy Sleepers: Regular foam can be sufficient, but memory foam still offers better motion dampening.

Edge Support Needs

Edge Sleepers: Regular foam generally offers better edge support. Memory foam can sometimes feel less stable around the edges, which is a consideration if you like to sit or sleep near the edge of the bed.

In conclusion, your choice between memory foam vs. regular foam should be guided by your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize pressure relief, cooling, or budget, there’s a foam type that suits you best. Next, we’ll look at the top memory foam and regular foam mattresses to help you make an informed decision.

Top 5 Best Memory Foam Mattresses

When it comes to memory foam mattresses, finding the right one can make all the difference for a good night’s sleep. Here are our top picks:

1. GhostBed Luxe

Score: 9.19

The GhostBed Luxe is often hailed as the “coldest bed in the world.” Its multiple layers of cooling technology, including a proprietary Ghost Ice cover, ensure you stay cool all night. This mattress is a great fit for side, back, and combination sleepers due to its responsive feel.

Pros:
– Superior cooling technology
– Good for various sleeping styles
– Plush feel

Cons:
– Only one firmness level
– Expensive when not on sale

Read Review | Check Price

2. Amerisleep AS3

Score: 8.99

The Amerisleep AS3 is a high-quality memory foam mattress known for its balance of comfort and support. It’s engineered to facilitate healthy spinal alignment, making it a top choice for back and stomach sleepers.

Pros:
– Excellent spinal alignment
– Great for back and stomach sleepers
– High-quality memory foam

Cons:
– Medium-firm may not suit everyone

Read Review | Check Price

3. Novosbed

Score: 8.87

The Novosbed offers a luxurious feel with its ultra-premium 5-lb memory foam. It’s designed to provide the perfect balance of comfort, support, and luxury. This mattress is ideal for those who want a dense, supportive feel.

Pros:
– Luxurious feel
– Excellent support
– High-density foam

Cons:
– Higher price point

Read Review | Check Price

4. Loom & Leaf

Score: 8.81

The Loom & Leaf mattress is another ultra-premium option, featuring a 5-lb memory foam. It’s known for its balance of comfort, support, and luxury. This mattress is great for those who need extra support and prefer a denser feel.

Pros:
– Ultra-premium quality
– Excellent balance of comfort and support
– Luxurious feel

Cons:
– Higher price point

Read Review | Check Price

5. BedInABox

Score: 9.62

The BedInABox offers incredible value with its comfortable and supportive memory foam. It’s a versatile option that suits a variety of sleeping styles. With a high score, it’s a proven winner among customers.

Top 5 Best Regular Foam Mattresses

When it comes to regular foam mattresses, there are some standout options that offer balanced comfort, good cooling, and excellent support. Let’s explore the top 5 best regular foam mattresses available today.

1. Nest Bedding Quail

Score: 9.04

Nest Bedding Quail is a top choice for those seeking a balanced feel. It combines polyfoam layers to provide support and comfort, making it suitable for various sleep positions.

Pros:
– Balanced feel
– Good cooling performance
– Suitable for various sleep positions

Cons:
– Slightly higher price point

Read Review | Check Price

2. Leesa Original

Score: 9.01

The Leesa Original is a popular choice known for its excellent cooling properties and supportive structure. It has a medium-firm feel, making it versatile for different sleepers.

Pros:
– Excellent cooling
– Supportive and comfortable
– Medium-firm feel

Cons:
– Limited edge support

Read Review | Check Price

3. Nolah Signature

Score: 8.82

Nolah Signature is designed with side sleepers in mind, offering great pressure relief and a softer feel. Its unique foam blend provides good cooling and responsiveness.

Pros:
– Great for side sleepers
– Excellent pressure relief
– Good cooling

Cons:
– May be too soft for stomach sleepers

Read Review | Check Price

4. GhostBed Classic

Score: 8.76

The GhostBed Classic combines latex and polyfoam for a bouncy and supportive feel. It’s great for those who move around a lot at night and need a mattress that responds quickly.

Pros:
– Bouncy and responsive
– Good for combination sleepers
– Durable construction

Cons:
– Higher levels of motion transfer

Read Review | Check Price

5. Siena

Score: 8.54

Siena offers great value with its supportive and cooling polyfoam layers. It’s a firmer mattress, making it ideal for back and stomach sleepers who need extra support.

Pros:
– Great value
– Firm support
– Good edge support

Cons:
– May be too firm for side sleepers

Read Review | Check Price

Next, we’ll dig into the frequently asked questions about memory foam vs. regular foam to help you make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions about Memory Foam vs. Regular Foam

Which is better, memory foam or regular foam?

Choosing between memory foam and regular foam depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Memory foam is excellent if you want:
– Pressure relief: It contours to your body, reducing pressure points.
– Motion isolation: It’s perfect for couples, as it minimizes movement transfer.
– Minimal noise: It doesn’t creak or make noise, unlike some other materials.

Regular foam (like polyfoam) is ideal if you prefer:
– Faster response time: It bounces back quickly when you move.
– Better cooling: It generally retains less heat than memory foam.
– Lower cost: It’s often more budget-friendly.

The best choice varies based on your sleeping habits, budget, and personal comfort preferences.

What is the disadvantage of memory foam?

While memory foam has many benefits, it also has some drawbacks:

Heat Retention: Memory foam tends to trap heat, making it uncomfortable for hot sleepers. However, options like gel-infused memory foam can help mitigate this issue.
Poor Edge Support: It can compress easily at the edges, making it less supportive if you sit or sleep near the edge.
Slow Response Time: Memory foam can feel slow to adjust when you change positions, which might create a “sinking” sensation.
Higher Cost: High-quality memory foam mattresses are generally more expensive.

Why are people no longer buying memory foam?

There are a few reasons why some people are moving away from memory foam:

Heat Issues: Despite cooling technologies, some still find memory foam too warm.
Preference for Bounce: Many prefer the bounce and faster response time of innerspring or hybrid mattresses.
Edge Support: Concerns about poor edge support can be a deal-breaker for some.
Off-Gassing: The initial chemical smell (off-gassing) can deter people, even though it usually dissipates within a few days.

That said, memory foam remains popular for its comfort and support, especially among those who value motion isolation and pressure relief.

Next, we’ll explore the top 5 best memory foam mattresses to help you find the perfect fit.

Conclusion

Summary

Choosing between memory foam vs. regular foam mattresses can be challenging. Memory foam excels in pressure relief, motion isolation, and contouring to the body. However, it often retains heat and has poor edge support. Regular foam, on the other hand, offers better cooling, faster response time, and is generally more affordable but may not provide the same level of motion isolation or contouring.

Choosing the Right Mattress

When selecting the right mattress, consider your sleeping position, body weight, budget, cooling needs, and whether you need good motion isolation or edge support.

Sleeping Position: Side sleepers may benefit more from the contouring properties of memory foam, while back and stomach sleepers might prefer the balanced support of regular foam.
Body Weight: Heavier individuals may find more support in high-density memory foam or high-resilience polyfoam.
Budget: Memory foam mattresses tend to be more expensive, but their benefits might justify the cost if you need superior pressure relief and motion isolation.
Cooling Needs: If you sleep hot, consider regular foam or memory foam with advanced cooling technologies like gel or copper infusions.
Motion Isolation: If you share your bed, memory foam can minimize disturbances from your partner’s movements.
Edge Support: If you often sit or sleep near the edge of the bed, regular foam might offer better support.

Yawnder’s Recommendations

At Yawnder, we’ve tested and reviewed hundreds of mattresses to help you make an informed decision. Our mattress reviews provide detailed insights into the best options available, custom to your specific needs and preferences.

The best mattress for you is one that aligns with your unique requirements, ensuring you get the restful sleep you deserve. Whether you choose memory foam or regular foam, investing in a high-quality mattress is a step towards better sleep and overall wellness.

Feel free to explore our detailed reviews and top picks to find the perfect mattress for your needs. Happy sleeping!