In the midst of the UK summer, it can be tricky trying to sleep through the heat. Luckily, there are several solutions out there to help keep you cool and comfortable all night long. But which is best?
We compare memory foam vs gel foam mattresses to find out, once and for all, which is best for a breathable night’s sleep.
What is Memory Foam?
Originally developed by NASA to provide cushioning for astronauts, memory foam has since been used in mattresses thanks to its ability to mould to the shape of your body.
Memory foam softens on contact with body heat and weight, moulding to your contours for perfect spinal alignment. Memory foam is made up of polymer polyurethane which gives it viscosity, resulting in that soft, sinking feeling.
The Benefits of Memory Foam for Mattresses
So, why is memory foam used in mattresses? Here are some of the benefits:
- Provides full-body comfort and support through even weight distribution
- Provides pressure relief for pressure points such as ankles, hips and shoulders
- Minimises motion transfer
- It’s long-lasting and durable
- It’s hypoallergenic
- It’s perfect for side sleepers and all body types
- It can help to relieve back pain
Memory Foam Cons
- Traditional memory foam mattresses can cause heat retention
- Some memory foam beds come with a hefty price tag
What Is Gel Foam?
Gel foam is similar to memory foam in the way it moulds to your shape. Viscoelastic foam is combined with gel beads that are designed to help you get a cooler sleep.
The Benefits of a Gel Foam Mattress
Benefits are similar to memory foam:
- Full body support and pressure relief
- Temperature regulation
- Hypoallergenic
- Movement absorption
Gel Foam Cons
However, gel foam can be:
- Less long-lasting than memory foam
- More expensive than memory foam
Memory Foam vs Gel Foam: What’s the Difference?
While a memory foam mattress is made up of layers of foam alone, a gel-infused mattress contains a layer of gel beads or a gel mattress pad.
The main difference between the two types of mattresses is that foam and memory foam mattresses of the past have been known to cause overheating. However, memory foam technology of today is much more sophisticated and this problem has been solved through the creation of a more breathable type of open-cell foam.
Another difference is that due to their complex construction, gel mattresses are often more expensive than their memory foam equivalents.
Finally, gel foam tends to spring back a little faster than memory foam.
How Good are Gel Memory Foam Mattresses?
So, is buying a gel foam mattress worth it? We answer some common questions...
How Long do Gel Memory Foam Mattresses Last?
Gel mattresses typically need replacing after 7 or 8 years. However, this is dependent on the level of care and the quality of the design.
Gel foam has a slightly shorter lifespan than memory foam which typically lasts between 8-10 years but can last much longer with the right care!
Is Gel Memory Foam Toxic?
As long as you buy your mattress from a reputable company, it should be safe to sleep on.
All of our memory foam mattresses are made according to strict UK regulations and are safe to use.
Is Gel Memory Foam Good for Back Pain?
Gel mattresses offer similar benefits to memory foam in terms of support and pressure relief, making them a good option for those with back pain.
If you suffer from severe back or joint pain or a condition such as arthritis, it may be worth investing in an orthopaedic memory foam mattress. These mattresses feature high-density memory foam to cushion joints, combined with castellated foam bases for optimal lumbar support.
Is Gel Memory Foam Cooler?
A gel-infused mattress may be cooler than some, traditional memory foam designs that have a closed-cell structure.
However, new advances in sleep technology have meant that it’s now easy to find quality, open-cell memory foam that promotes increased airflow for a cooler sleep.
In fact, some gel used in mattresses actually conducts heat! So, while they may feel cooler at first, this feeling may not last for long if your body temperature increases.
Is Memory Foam or Gel Memory Foam Better?
If you are concerned about overheating at night, a gel mattress may be a better option than a traditional, closed-cell memory foam mattress.
However, both types offer very similar benefits in terms of comfort and support.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, a cooling memory foam mattress with open-cell foam and breathable fibres could be right up your street.
Ultimately, the right mattress for you comes down to personal preference. Having a look at mattress reviews from others with similar sleeping issues can help you make an informed decision.
What is the Best Cooling Memory Foam Mattress?
Looking for a sleep solution to keep you cool and dry throughout the night? Here’s our pick of the best cooling memory foam mattresses…
Best Budget Cooling Mattress
For a refreshing night’s sleep on a budget, the Coolmax Classic Memory Foam Mattress is just the ticket. The innovative Coolmax cover wicks away excess body heat and moisture and the breathable fibres help to regulate temperature.
On top of that, the mattress is hypoallergenic and comes with a machine washable cover for extra freshness.
Best Hybrid Cooling Mattress
If you enjoy the breathability and bounce of spring, but don’t want to compromise on comfort, the Coolmax Deluxe 1000 Pocket Sprung Memory Foam Mattress features a layer of individually encased springs topped with a luxuriously cushioning memory foam topper.
By mixing springs and foam, the mattress offers increased airflow for comfort without overheating.
Best Cooling Mattress for Back Pain
An orthopaedic memory foam mattress doesn’t have to spell a hot and stuffy night’s sleep. The 4G Aircool Pedic Deluxe Mattress features a deep base layer of medical-grade foam with strategically placed channels for targeted spinal support. This is combined with 4G Aircool memory foam, an open-cell structured foam infused with cooling particles.
To finish off, the mattress is topped with a breathable, Eucalyptus infused cover which absorbs moisture and prevents bacteria from growing.
Best Cooling Mattress for Larger Body Types
Heavier sleepers need extra support for optimal sleep. The 4G Aircool Titan XL Memory Foam Mattress is one of our deepest mattresses and features three layers of high-density foam for high-level support.
The 4G foam encourages air circulation for a fresh and hygienic sleeping environment.
Enjoy a Cool Night’s Sleep
From breathable memory foam to cooling mattress toppers, we’re committed to solving your sleep dilemmas through affordable, quality memory foam products.
Sleep easy this summer and explore our range of cooling memory foam mattresses.