Pillow Top Memory Foam Mattresses Reach New Heights

Over the past year pillowtop memory foam mattresses have reached new heights as mattresses are made to include thicker layers of base foam and super comfort layers up to 6” thick. Today memory foam beds are up to 16” in height. Better foam and better combinations of foam have lead to beds that offer both a super plush feel as well as outstanding support.

Understanding how these beds are put together will help you chose from the array of beds on the market and find one that caters to your personal comfort level.

First, understand that memory foam beds are not made of all memory foam. In fact only the top 2” to 6” are memory foam. The bottom layers are made of base foam, standard polyurethane foam. Base foam is a lower density (1.8 – 2.5lb) closed cell foam; its purpose is to provide deep support for the top comfort layers. Unlike lower density memory foam, lower density base foam is very durable, often having a longer usable life than the memory foam it is layered with.

Second, know that thicker pillow top mattresses are not necessarily more luxurious, soft, or comfortable. Right now in the market, retailers are touting their super thick pillow top beds as having the plushest feel. In most cases this is true, but it is smart to look at the actual composition of the bed. How thick are the memory foam layers? What firmness foam is used in the different layers?

Whatever bed you are looking at, whether it’s a firm 8” low profile mattress or a plush 16” pillow top, the important thing is how it feels. Regardless of name brand or marketing promotions, trust your senses to find the right memory foam mattress for you.