How Thick Of A Memory Foam Mattress Is Best

To answer your question about the optimal thickness for a memory foam mattress, the range is 5–8 inches. However, simply being aware of the figure is insufficient. You should also be aware of the factors that make this thickness of mattress perfect, particularly for a memory foam bed.

Furthermore, the optimal thickness of memory foam ranges from three to five inches. To learn how thick a mattress should be, we suggest you read this. You’ll have a much easier time grasping the concepts discussed here if you refer to that mattress thickness guide.

8 Benefits of a Memory Foam Mattress

#1 Body hugging comfort

Memory foam, which is a temperature-sensitive material that responds to your body’s heat and weight, is extremely resilient. When you lay down on visco elastic, the foam conforms immediately to your body. Memory foam’s unique ability to conform to your body’s shape makes it the superior material for a mattress.

#2 Ideal for all sleeping positions

Since memory foam conforms to the shape of the sleeper’s body and distributes weight effectively, it is suitable for use with a wide range of sleeping styles. Sleeping on your stomach will keep your spine in a neutral position, while sleeping on your back or side will provide you with the same level of support.

#3 Superior motion absorption

One of the major benefits of modern memory foam mattresses is that they isolate movement very well. Memory foam is great for couples because of its ability to absorb energy and reduce the effects of movement. The other person in the bed won’t even notice if one of you rolls over or flops around.

#4 Less back and neck pain

By encouraging a neutral spinal alignment, viscoelastic foam makes it possible to find a relaxed and supported sleeping posture. In the long run, this alleviates issues associated with persistent musculoskeletal pain in the shoulders, neck, and back.

#5 Hypo-allergenic

If you have allergies, you should look into getting a memory foam mattress. Mold and mildew are useless against polyurethane foam, and neither are dust mites or pet dander.

#6 Good pressure relief

Painful pressure points can develop in the knees, hips, back, and shoulders on mattresses that are too firm. Memory foam eliminates the issue because weight is distributed evenly across the mattress.

#7 Customized support

At one time, memory foam had a bad rap for making you feel like you were sleeping on quicksand and getting too hot during the night. The newest models offer a more comfortable night’s sleep in a cooler environment and a tunable degree of support. Previously, only high-density memory foam mattresses were available, but now consumers can also pick from low-density, medium-density, and soft-density options.

#8 Sag free and no sinkage

These days, memory foam mattresses are made from high-quality adaptive materials that provide the ideal balance of “not too soft and not too firm.” Having an open cell design ensures that the mattress will retain its shape over time.

What Is The Best Thickness For A Memory Foam Mattress?

Memory foam mattresses are most comfortable when they are between 4 and 5 inches thick, but their total height can reach 8 inches. Nonetheless, it’s best to think about your sleeping position and body type because the optimal mattress thickness for you will vary depending on you. Memory foam mattresses typically have labels detailing the individual layer heights used in the bed’s construction.

The standard thickness for a memory foam mattress is 8 inches. Not to worry, this measurement takes into account a 3-inch thick comfort layer and a 5-inch thick base layer.

Memory foam mattress comfort layer

The pressure relieving and contouring qualities of memory foam mattresses are the work of the bed’s comfort layer. A two- to three-inch layer of memory foam in the mattress’ comfort layer can offer adequate padding without compromising the structure’s ability to support your weight. On the other hand, the optimal memory foam thickness for the mattress’ comfort layer can vary widely depending on factors like your body type, sleeping position, and any relevant medical conditions you may have.

Memory foam mattress base layer

The base or foundation layer is the thickest part of a memory foam mattress. As the layer most directly responsible for the bed’s longevity and support, the base foam should be at least half as thick as the rest of the mattress. Poly-foam base layers are used by some manufacturers of memory foam mattresses.

What Is The Average Thickness Of A Memory Foam Mattress?

The thickness of a memory foam mattress can vary from 2 inches to 14 inches. The recommended minimum thickness for a supportive and comfortable bed is 8 inches of memory foam, but you can go as high as 14 inches if that’s what you need. You should know what kind of memory foam is best for your needs and preferences, but remember that mattress thickness is not a one-size-fits-all factor.

Is 2 Inches Of Memory Foam Enough?

If you’re looking for a memory foam mattress topper, a two-inch thick layer is about right. In addition to being the most cost-effective, this thickness also enhances the contouring properties of your bed. Further, the thin profile of this memory foam means that it won’t keep you too toasty during the night.

Is 4 inches of memory foam enough?

If you’re on a strict budget, a memory foam mattress with a thickness of four inches may be the best option for you. This is the standard thickness for mattresses made with low-density memory foam, which is great for those who prefer a plush but still supportive sleeping surface. However, low-density memory foam is not particularly durable.

Is 8 inches of memory foam enough?

A memory foam mattress of eight inches in thickness is just right, being neither too thin nor too thick. It’s still lightweight enough to be portable, but it’s thick enough to provide pressure relief and cushioning without sacrificing support.

Is 10 inches of memory foam enough?

A memory foam mattress that is 10 inches thick will provide adequate support for the typical adult. The extra thickness serves as a great foundation that prevents the sleeper from sinking too far in.

Is 12 inches of memory foam enough?

A 12-inch memory foam mattress is ideal for heavier individuals or for those who share a bed. Thinner objects are more likely to wake their sleeping partner if they move.

Does Thickness Of Memory Foam Mattress Matter?

The level of support and comfort provided by a memory foam mattress are directly related to its thickness. For instance, those who prefer to sleep on their sides will benefit from a more generously padded mattress, while those who prefer to sleep on their stomachs will do better with a thinner memory foam mattress. A mattress’s thickness is also an indicator of how long it will last, as a flimsy foundation will lead to sagging long before its time.

Are Thicker Memory Foam Mattresses Better?

Because of individual differences, a thicker memory foam mattress is not automatically superior. A thick memory foam bed, however, is something that can be considered. If you or your partner are on the heavier side, or if you have frequent sleepovers, a thicker memory foam mattress is a better investment.

Alternatively, the thicker memory foam bed will be heavier, making it more of a hassle to move around. Our guide on how many inches a mattress should be will tell you more about these considerations.

Best Memory Foam Mattress

Editor’s Pick – WinkBeds GravityLux

This high-end mattress has ample room for extensive body contouring, thanks to its thick top layers of memory foam and adjustable firmness settings. The WinkBeds GravityLux’s adjustable firmness levels should make it suitable for a wide range of sleepers. Those who prefer to sleep on their sides will most likely feel most at ease with the Soft or Medium mattress, as they will provide the most pressure relief at the shoulders and hips. Those who prefer to sleep on their backs or bellies should look into the Firm model.

Pros

• Infusing gel into their memory foam, WinkBeds were able to mitigate the worst of the overheating that would have resulted from using so much memory foam.
• The mattress is protected by a cover made from Tencel, a breathable and eco-friendly material.
• For 120 nights, you can sleep on a WinkBeds GravityLux without any financial commitment. The mattresses sold by WinkBeds come with a lifetime guarantee as well.

Cons

• It depends on the individual, but the WinkBeds GravityLux, especially the Firm variant, is much more responsive than conventional memory foam.

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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Couples – Helix Midnight

Midnight is the most popular of Helix’s 13 (!) different models because it works well for a wide range of sleepers (including couples). It’s ideal for couples who sleep together due to the thick layer of memory foam that mitigates the effects of motion. The Helix Midnight is a hybrid mattress because it uses coils, but it uses the brand’s pressure-relieving Memory Plus foam exclusively in its comfort layer.

Pros

• The mattress’s medium firmness is incredibly flexible.
• The springiness of the bed is thanks to the coils at its foundation.
• You can try out the Helix Midnight bed for a full 100 nights before making a final decision.

Cons

• Heavier sleepers who weigh more than 250 pounds may not get enough support from the Helix Midnight, which is the only reason I wouldn’t recommend it to them.

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Best Cheap Memory Foam Mattress – Nectar

Memory foam can be pricey, but the Nectar is a memory foam option that won’t break the bank (especially if you look for discounts and coupons). Here, the top 5 inches of memory foam create an irresistibly plush atmosphere. Most people will feel completely encased by these soft layers, which will relieve stress on their hips and shoulders.

Pros

• If you sleep exclusively on your side or need extra padding where your body hits the floor, I usually advise looking into the Nectar.
• Since gel has been infused into the top layer of foam in the Nectar, you can expect to feel much less heat while you are sleeping on it.
• Included in the purchase price are a variety of extras worth a total of several hundred dollars, including a mattress protector, cooling pillow, and sheets. In addition to a lifetime guarantee and 365-night trial period, the bed comes with a money-back guarantee.

Cons

• Changing positions and moving around on the Nectar can be challenging for some users. Take note, people who sleep in a combination bed.

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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Side Sleepers – Loom & Leaf

Memory foam is known for having a plusher, more luxurious feel than other popular mattress materials. And so, if you sleep on your side and are looking for a high-end memory foam mattress, the Loom & Leaf is where your search should begin. Two generously sized layers of memory foam serve as the foundation of this structure, allowing for plenty of room to accommodate substantial body contouring and pressure relief, particularly in the shoulders and hips. The top layer has been infused with gel to actively cool the sleeper as well.

Pros

• Because of its moderate firmness, the Loom & Leaf provides excellent support all the way across the bed, not just in the middle.
• As a result of the sturdy edge support, this may be a great choice for couples, as they will be able to stretch out toward the bed’s ends without feeling unsafe.
• The Loom & Leaf comes with a 180-night trial period so you can try it out in the comfort of your own home. There’s no cost for white-glove service, and there’s a warranty that covers you for 15 years.

Cons

• If you prefer a bed with more bounce, you may not like the Loom & Leaf because it isn’t very responsive.

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Best Memory Foam Mattress in a Box – Casper

Casper’s three layers of foam work together to relieve pressure on your spine and support your hips and shoulders. As a firmness level between medium and firm, it should be comfortable for most people while still supporting their spines properly during the night.

Pros

• The bed’s zoned support system is responsible for giving it a well-rounded feel. Because of its unique construction, this foam is more dense in some areas and more pliable in others.
• The Casper should also be a good fit for those who sleep in a combination of positions. It’s responsive enough for an all-foam mattress, so you can switch positions and settle in quickly.
• You can put the Casper through its paces over the course of a hundred nights if you’re on the fence about buying it. Casper may also be having a sale during the holidays, so keep your eyes peeled!

Cons

• Sleeping on the Casper may cause pressure in the hips and shoulders for those who must sleep on their side, which may make them look for a softer option.

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Best Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress – DreamCloud Original

It’s possible that the DreamCloud Original is the perfect mattress for you if you sleep on your back and are in search of a plush yet supportive memory foam surface. A second type of hybrid, this one features coils at the base to help keep the hips in line with the shoulders. At the same time, the gentle foam supports and cushions the neck and lower back.

Pros

• Because it sleeps relatively cool and isolates motion well for a hybrid, the DreamCloud is an excellent choice for couples.
• The 7 on the firmness scale indicates a mattress with a moderate amount of responsiveness and bounce (the industry standard for medium-firm is 6.5), in comparison to other mattresses.
• There is a 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime guarantee on the bed.

Cons

• In general, a mattress designed for back or stomach sleepers will not be comfortable for side sleepers, who should look for a model that provides more substantial relief from pressure at the shoulders and hips.

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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Back Sleepers – Leesa

Despite memory foam’s unfavorable rep, the Leesa actually provides adequate support. For those who prefer to sleep on their backs, this mattress is a great option because of the combination of pressure-relieving soft foam, standard foam, and supportive foam that it offers. This aids in maintaining a straight spine.

Pros

• The Leesa’s soft twill cover and open-cell foam make for a comfortable night’s sleep even in warmer climates.
• Despite its firmness rating of 5.5 out of 10, the Leesa has a relatively plush feel.
• The Leesa should work well for those who sleep on their sides, too.

Cons

• If you like to sleep near the end of the bed, you may want to look elsewhere because the edge support isn’t great here.

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Best for Back Pain – Bear

The Bear’s gel-infused memory foam comfort layer allows for a firm feel while still providing some body contouring. Those who suffer from back pain will appreciate the fact that this layer provides significant pressure relief. The level of comfort and support they experience should be just right for them to maintain spinal neutrality.

Pros

• The Bear’s Celliant cover and graphite filling should work together to keep you cool at night.
• There is speculation that Celliant also aids in blood flow and muscle recovery, making the Bear an attractive option for athletes.
• Persons who prefer to sleep in a variety of positions can easily do so on the Bear.

Cons

• Heavy people may find that the Bear doesn’t provide enough support. Instead, I would suggest they take a look at one of our best mattresses for heavy people.

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Best Cooling Memory Foam Mattress – Layla

While the deep sinkage and relief from pain that memory foam provides is wonderful, the material also has the potential to get quite hot. Some memory foam mattresses, however, do not retain heat. Some mattresses, such as the all-foam Layla, provide a surprisingly comfortable night’s rest in the cool. Copper, a material that actively dissipates body heat throughout the structure, is infused into the memory foam, allowing it to function effectively even in extremely high temperatures.

Pros

• There is a Firm and a Soft side to this mattress, so it can be flipped over. Try out both the Firm and the Soft sides to find out which one you prefer; personally, I prefer the Firm side for back sleepers and the Soft side for side sleepers.
• And if you suffer from hip pain, you might find the Layla’s Soft side to be a welcome relief.
• Check back frequently and use our Sleepopolis coupon to get a great deal, as the price of this mattress varies depending on the current sale. The Layla comes with a wealth of extras, including a 120-day money-back guarantee and a lifetime guarantee.

Cons

• The Layla’s two sides don’t provide much in the way of bounce, so shoppers interested in a more responsive mattress may want to look elsewhere.

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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Pressure Relief – Nolah Signature

The Nolah Signature, the company’s top-of-the-line mattress, is constructed with AirFoam, the company’s proprietary version of memory foam. Those who sleep on their backs or sides will appreciate the combination of sinkage and support offered by the Nolah Signature. The bed’s 5.5 out of 10 firmness rating indicates it’s a plush and comfortable option for sleep.

Pros

• The Signature is made entirely of foam, but unlike conventional memory foam, AirFoam allows air to circulate while you sleep.
• Those experiencing back pain may find it to be a helpful option.
• The Nolah Signature’s impressive ability to dampen outside noise makes it a great choice for couples. Your partner’s movements at night should be imperceptible to you.

Cons

• Stomach sleepers may find the Nolah Signature to be too soft and unsupportive.

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How Much Does a Memory Foam Mattress Cost?

Among the many factors to think about before purchasing a new mattress is, of course, the cost. You’re looking at a long-term investment that you want to last for many years, and even the cheapest bed will cost several hundred dollars.

How much, on average, do memory foam mattresses set you back?

The price of a quality memory foam mattress in a Queen size can range from about $500 to $3,000. I consider this to be a reasonable price range for a high-quality memory foam mattress, and the majority of the mattresses I considered for this roundup fall somewhere in the middle of it.

What Else to Consider When Buying A Memory Foam Mattress

• Memory foam beds, like other mattresses, can vary in firmness from soft to firm. Select one that best suits your tastes and the conditions under which you sleep. In general, I advise people who sleep on their sides to go with a softer mattress, those who sleep on their backs with a medium-firm one, and those who sleep on their stomachs with a firm one.
• Memory foam is well-known for its ability to absorb motion, making it less likely that sleepers will be disturbed by a partner’s tossing and turning. You should think about motion transfer if you’re trying to decide between different memory foam mattresses.
• All memory foam mattresses are excellent in relieving pressure points. As a rule, softer memory foam will provide slightly more pressure relief than its firmer counterpart. Joint pain sufferers and side sleepers may benefit from a mattress with more pressure relief than is typical.
• Temperature: Memory foam is notorious for being a hot mattress. Look for memory foam that has been enhanced with gel, copper, or graphite to avoid this. There is also the option of a memory foam hybrid, which combines traditional memory foam with the breathability and cooling properties of pocketed coils.
• Comfort Some sleepers may feel “stuck” in bed due to memory foam’s tendency to provide a warm, hugging sensation. If this sounds like you, it’s best to look into firmer memory foam hybrids, which don’t allow for as much sinkage as plusher all-foam mattresses.
• If you sleep on the side of your bed, how well it supports your body is a good indicator of how comfortable your mattress will be overall. Most memory foam hybrids have steel coil layers for added strength at the edges, making them ideal for heavier people. This can extend the life of your mattress and give it a more spacious appearance.
• Bed-in-a-box mattresses constructed from memory foam typically require an “off-gassing period” during which time the foam releases any gasses that were trapped during compression. This is not harmful, but it may leave your mattress with an unpleasant odor for a while. If this is a major concern, I suggest looking into plant-based memory foams, as they tend to off-gas less strongly.
• Consider the company’s warranty and sleep trial period when shopping for a new mattress. In my opinion, the featured businesses provide excellent guarantees and free testing periods. In general, it’s best to go with a company that stands behind their product with a long-term guarantee (10 years or more) and a generous sleep trial (100 nights or more). You can trust that you’re getting a high-quality mattress if the manufacturer or retailer has these qualities.

Memory Foam Mattresses for Different Types of Sleepers

Which of these factors do you think is most important? The best memory foam mattress for you will depend on your sleeping habits and requirements.

• Sleeping on one’s back requires adequate lumbar support to maintain spinal neutrality, so this sleeping position is best suited for memory foam mattresses with a medium-firm to firm feel. For these people, I recommend a memory foam mattress or a hybrid of memory foam and another material.
• Mattresses made entirely of memory foam, with a soft to medium soft feel, are my top recommendation for side sleepers. Some of the best mattresses for this type of sleeper are those made entirely of memory foam, as they provide the deep sinkage and hip and shoulder support that these sleepers crave.
• My recommendation for stomach sleepers is a memory foam hybrid, or a memory foam mattress that includes some other, firmer foams in its top layers in addition to memory foam. People who sleep on their stomachs should avoid memory foam mattresses because of the sinkage they provide; a firm mattress that helps lift hips in line with shoulders is ideal. If they’re dead set on a memory foam mattress, I’d advise getting the firmest model you can find.
• People who need to be able to get up and move around during the night may not like the sinkage that memory foam provides. Firm memory foam hybrids, which have less sinkage than conventional memory foam mattresses, are my recommendation for these sleepers.
• People who tend to overheat during the night should consider purchasing a gel-infused memory foam hybrid mattress. If you tend to sleep hot, you could benefit from a mattress that combines memory foam with a layer of latex or poly foam, which is known for its breathability and moisture management.
• Those who weigh a lot at night should look for a memory foam mattress with lots of compression support. As a result, they require high-density memory foam mattresses that contour to their bodies, as opposed to the low-density variety that essentially “tacos” around them. Hybrid memory foam mattresses, such as the DreamCloud, may also be an excellent choice for these individuals.

Who Should Buy a Memory Foam Mattress

• Memory foam mattresses have a sinking, contouring feel that’s ideal for side sleepers who need relief from pressure.
• Memory foam’s soft, cushioned texture may also appeal to people who have joint pain while they sleep because it takes the edge off of the pressure points.
• A memory foam mattress is ideal for those who like to sink in and contour to their body. Material like this is ideal if you want to feel like your mattress is hugging you.
• The motion isolation provided by memory foam mattresses is a major selling point for those looking to purchase a mattress as a pair. If your bedmate isn’t prone to snoring or getting out of bed in the middle of the night, you should have a peaceful night’s sleep.
• If you have an allergy to latex but still need a comfortable place to sleep, consider this foam mattress.
• Memory foam is a great option for those looking for a noiseless mattress.

Who Shouldn’t Buy a Memory Foam Mattress

• You won’t like the sinkage that memory foam mattresses provide if you like to feel more “on top” of your mattress. Consider upgrading to one of our luxurious latex mattresses instead.
• It’s possible that even the most temperature-regulating memory foam mattresses will sleep too warm for those who tend to sleep hot. If that’s the case, you should consider purchasing one of our coolest mattresses.
• Memory foam mattresses are not the best choice if you prefer a springier surface. Choose from our finest innerspring mattresses.

Conclusion

That sums up the whole thing. Again, the sweet spot for a memory foam mattress’s thickness is somewhere between 5 and 8 inches. Although the thickness of a memory foam mattress is largely a matter of personal preference, there are other factors to consider, such as the bed’s overall construction, your sleeping position, and your body type.

If you want to make sure your mattress will give you the right amount of support and comfort, it’s a good idea to look at each of its individual layers. To further your familiarity with memory foam, here is how one is manufactured.