When done right, sleeping on memory foam can offer unrivalled comfort and pressure point support.
From breaking in your new mattress to sleeping positions and accessories, read our advice on how to sleep on a memory foam mattress to make the most out of bedtime.
Breaking in a Memory Foam Mattress
Memory foam can take a little time to soften fully as it reacts to your weight and body heat. This softening process can take a few days, so don’t give up on your new mattress prematurely. The good news is - the more you sleep, the faster this process becomes!
If you want to speed things up, turning up the temperature in your bedroom can help things along nicely. As will rolling around or gently kneading the surface.
Top tip: Avoid adding a mattress topper until your mattress is fully broken in as it could delay the process.
We offer a 100-night sleep trial on many of our mattresses to allow you time to get used to your purchase and decide if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Sleeping on a Bed In a Box Mattress
To facilitate easy delivery, some memory foam mattresses are carefully stored and delivered boxed, straight to your door.
Before you can rest your head, you need to unbox. Follow these simple steps;
- Open the box
- Remove the rolled mattress with the protective packaging still intact
- Place it on the bed it’s intended for
- Open the packaging (ideally without the use of scissors just in case you damage the product)
- Unroll the mattress
- Give it time to expand and regain its original shape (at least 24 hours)
It’s important to give your new mattress time to fully expand after it has been compressed and rolled. If not, you may not be able to take advantage of the full benefits memory foam has to offer.
Explore our bed in a box mattresses.
Can You Sleep on Memory Foam Too Early?
Good quality memory foam mattresses shouldn’t become damaged if you sleep on them before the full 24-48 hour expanding time.
When you first lay out your mattress you may notice a slight smell during the harmless off-gassing process. The only downside of sleeping on your mattress early is that it may not be fully expanded and you may not experience the full support and comfort memory foam can provide.
If you can’t wait the full 24 hours, give it at least 4-6 hours before tucking yourself in for a better night’s sleep.
Is It Good to Sleep on Memory Foam?
Memory foam is the ultimate mattress material when it comes to providing pressure point relief and cushioning around joints.
Here are just some of the many benefits memory foam can offer;
- Relief from neck, back and shoulder pain
- Allergy relief thanks to its hypoallergenic properties
- Cushioning around joints and pressure points
- Reduces movement disturbance - essential if you or your partner toss and turn at night!
- Resistant to dust mites
- Softens around the contours of your body for targeted support
- Ideal for those with arthritis or joint problems - explore orthopaedic memory foam mattresses for optimum support
Best Sleeping Positions for Memory Foam
Did you know your sleeping position could have an impact on the quality of your sleep?
Take a look at some of the most common positions and how you can make adjustments to sleep soundly on your memory foam mattress.
Side Sleepers
Sleeping on your side is the most common sleep position and is good for your long term health. Memory foam mattresses are perfect for side sleepers as they provide an extra layer of cushioning to protect shoulders, hips and ankles from discomfort.
If you suffer from lower back pain, try sleeping with a slim pillow in between your knees to maintain natural spinal alignment.
For neck and shoulder issues, a contour memory foam pillow can provide relief from aches and pains by mirroring the shape of your upper body and realigning the spine.
Front Sleepers
If you sleep on your stomach, you may need firmer support from your mattress to minimise the overarching of your spine. Choose a firm mattress and a slim pillow to ease tension around your neck and lower back.
Back Sleepers
Sleeping on your back is great for your health as your body weight is spread evenly across your mattress. Back sleepers have the luxury of choosing from all types of quality mattresses depending on their personal comfort preferences.
Find more tips in our guide to good sleeping posture.
Tips for Sleeping Better on Memory Foam
Struggling to get a good night’s sleep on your current mattress? Try these tips for better sleep.
Add a Memory Foam Mattress Topper
A memory foam mattress topper can do wonders for tired older mattresses. Providing an extra layer of luxurious comfort, a topper can give your mattress a boost without breaking the bank.
Top tip: Toppers aren’t a magical solution for old mattresses with lumps, sagging or damage. If your mattress is well past it’s best, you can’t fix it with a topper. Learn whether it’s time to replace your mattress here.
How to Revive a Memory Foam Mattress
If you’re not ready to replace your mattress, there are some ways to make it more comfortable.
Sleeping in the same position night after night can start to create a dip. While many people enjoy the comfort and support this provides, rotating your mattress from head to foot helps to reset the mattress and provide a fresh sleeping surface.
Memory foam mattresses need a solid base to provide maximum support. If your mattress is dipping, check under the bed to make sure your bed frame isn’t missing any slats.
How to Cool Down a Memory Foam Mattress
Many of us get too hot during the night. To combat this common problem, try a cooling memory foam mattress or topper with open-cell foam technology and a breathable cover.
You could also try swapping your divan for a slatted bed base to increase airflow and change your pre-bed-time habits to keep things fresh.
Find more tips on how to make your memory foam mattress cooler here.
Find Your Perfect Memory Foam Bed
As a long-standing mattress company, we’re here to give you excellent memory foam products at direct-to-consumer prices. Got more questions? Our sleep specialists are on hand to help you find the right mattress for your needs.
Start browsing our full range of memory foam mattresses to improve your sleep.
