There has been a lot of curiosity surrounding memory foam mattresses in the last few decades. Originally developed by the expert engineers at NASA, these special mattresses hit the shore of the consumer market only in the early 90s. Memory foam mattresses were specially developed for the astronauts. Their bodies were subjected to excess stress during space flights due to the G-force. The primary function of these mattresses is to mould itself in accordance with the user’s body and make him feel excessively light; almost as light as a feather. The initial version was called the T-foam and it brought along a lot of promise with its ability to respond to the body temperature. However, it was seen that this T-foam was not very durable and cracked eventually.

Tempur-Pedic was the first company to launch memory foam mattresses in the consumer market. This company developed their own version of memory foam, known as Tempur foam. Tempur foam was used mainly for medical purposes to enable patients sleep better and get relief severe backache. This variety of mattresses was specially designed to see that they were much more durable and continued to retain the benefits of reducing decreasing } body pressure. However, what kept it afar from being put to daily use was its high price. In fact, Tempur foam has stayed away from the consumer market even to this day due to its dear price. However, it is undoubtedly the best memory foam mattress that can be found.

Other companies soon became aware of the huge benefits of memory foam mattresses and soon started manufacturing their own ones. However, beware of false advertising and cheap imitations. Make sure you read some memory foam mattress reviews first. Hailing from the consumer industry, they priced their mattresses much lower compared to Tempur-Pedic. Memory foam has garnered huge popularity with every passing year and this has led different manufacturers of mattresses to introduce their own versions of this product. However, it is pertinent to note that memory foams differ from each other in their density, hardness and softness and finally in their longevity. In spite of its benefits, a mattress made totally out of memory foam will not work because it is too soft to be supportive. It produces best results when it is used as a layer over a firm material.

Here are some important facts to consider before you make your choice:

• The mattress you choose should be made of top-quality materials. Look for at least a 5.0LB density in product descriptions. This high-density polyurethane material, developed by NASA for use by astronauts, offers a better “custom-fit” than other, low-density foam mattresses, and you can depend on it for lasting resiliency.

• Never settle for a low-grade imported foam product. While the price may be lower, the materials in these mattresses do not hold up over time, and they have likely been stacked in a warehouse somewhere for perhaps months, gathering dust, dirt and bacteria. The best manufacturers in the United States custom-make and deliver memory foam mattresses on a customer-by-customer basis.

• Look for at least a high-density base layer and a top comfort layer. Some higher-end models have multiple layers, but is not always the case. The high-density foam gives your mattress the support and longevity you need, while the comfort layer provides the “cuddle-every-curve” feeling that provides the ultimate in relaxation. Combined, you receive a combination of softness, support and durability for years to come.

• Choose a hypoallergenic mattress that is resistant to dust mites. Many people who think they have no allergies are actually very sensitive to the detritus that their mattresses accumulate over time. These sensitivities can seriously interfere with sleep even though many sleepers themselves don’t realize it and labels it as “bad Sleep”. What they do realize is that once the potential allergens are gone, they sleep much more soundly.

• Choose a mattress that is bacteria-resistant and comes with a washable zip-off cover or mattress protector to assure that your sleeping surface is refreshing and hygienic. A buildup of bacteria can result in odors that do not make for a pleasant sleeping environment.

• It may seem logical to “try out” a memory foam mattress in a retail store, but there is just no way a few minutes of lying on any mattress can give you an accurate idea of what it will feel like to sleep on it for a full night. The best way to find the right mattress for you is to “test drive” it in the comfort of your own bedroom. Many online companies offer money back guarantees, allowing you really get a feel for the mattress in the comfort of your own bedroom….and without a sales rep watching your every move while looking for a buying signal.

• It takes most people several weeks to adjust to a new mattress, and the company you choose to make your mattress should understand that and offer you a “comfort guarantee” that allows you to sleep on the mattress for up to 90 days, and to return it if you are not satisfied.

There is no doubt that memory foam mattresses are hugely popular, and with good reason. Many purchasers report sleeping well for the first time in their lives. Follow the guidelines here, and you too will choosing the correct memory foam mattress for you and begin to enjoy all of the advantages that this sleep system delivers.