Memory Foam Mattresses

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What is a memory foam mattress?

A memory foam mattress is made from viscoelastic foam, a material that softens with body heat and moulds to your shape, then slowly returns to its original form once you get up. That responsiveness is what gives memory foam its distinctive, contouring feel, spreading your weight evenly and easing pressure points as you sleep.

What are the benefits of a memory foam mattress?

Memory foam mattresses offer four main benefits: pressure relief, spinal support, reduced motion transfer and hypoallergenic properties.

• Pressure relief comes from how closely the foam contours to your body, easing strain on the shoulders and hips.
• Spinal support improves too, since the mattress moulds evenly under your weight rather than leaving gaps.
• Motion transfer drops sharply, so if you share a bed, you're far less likely to feel your partner move.
• Memory foam is naturally hypoallergenic, resisting dust mites and other common allergens.

Are memory foam mattresses worth it?

Yes, for most sleepers. Memory foam is worth it if you want strong pressure relief, minimal motion transfer, or a quiet mattress with no springs to creak. It suits side sleepers particularly well.

It isn't the right fit for everyone, though.

• Memory foam can sleep warmer than springs, though gel-infused and open-cell foams reduce this.
• It responds more slowly than springs, so it can feel harder to move around on.
• New memory foam mattresses can have a faint smell for the first few days, which fades with airing.

What size memory foam mattress do I need?

Memory foam mattresses at Bed Kingdom come in seven sizes, from shorty to super king.

• Shorty: 75cm x 175cm, a good fit for box rooms or older bed frames
• Small single: 75cm x 190cm
• Single: 90cm x 190cm
• Small double: 120cm x 190cm
• Double: 135cm x 190cm
• King size: 150cm x 200cm
• Super king: 180cm x 200cm

Continental options add 10cm to the length across most sizes, if you need extra legroom. For full measurements, see our UK bed and mattress size guide.

How firm should a memory foam mattress be?

Most people do best on a medium memory foam mattress, since it balances contouring with enough support to stay comfortable all night. The right choice still depends on how you sleep.

• Soft memory foam suits side sleepers who want a deep, plush, cushioning feel.
• Medium memory foam suits most sleepers, especially anyone who changes position through the night.
• Firm memory foam suits back and stomach sleepers, since it distributes weight evenly with less sinkage.

Is a gel memory foam mattress good?

Yes, if you tend to sleep hot. Gel is infused into the foam to draw heat away from your body, which helps offset standard memory foam's tendency to trap warmth. Browse our gel mattresses to see the range.

Is an orthopaedic memory foam mattress a good choice?

Yes, if you need extra support for your back or joints. Orthopaedic memory foam mattresses combine the contouring of standard memory foam with a firmer base layer, giving more structured support than a standard foam mattress. Shop our orthopaedic mattresses to compare options.

How long does a memory foam mattress last?

A good quality memory foam mattress typically lasts around 10 years, depending on the foam's density, how it's used and how well it's cared for.

A sturdy, well-supported base helps it last the distance. Memory foam works on slatted frames and divan bases alike, as long as the base itself is solid and doesn't sag.

How do I clean a memory foam mattress?

Cleaning a memory foam mattress comes down to three steps: vacuum, spot clean, then air dry fully.

• Vacuum regularly to lift dust and debris before it works into the foam.
• Spot clean marks with a mild detergent. Never soak the foam, since trapped moisture is difficult to fully dry out.
• Let it air dry completely before putting bedding back on.

A mattress protector is the easiest way to guard against spills and stains in the first place.

Do memory foam mattresses smell?

Yes, new memory foam mattresses often have a distinctive smell when first unpacked, known as off-gassing. It's harmless, and usually fades within a few days.

Unpacking your mattress somewhere well-ventilated, a garage or a room with the windows open, speeds up the process.

Is a memory foam topper a good idea?

A memory foam topper is a good idea if your current mattress is basically comfortable but needs a bit more give. It won't fix a mattress that's sagging or worn out, that needs replacing rather than topping. See our memory foam mattress toppers if a top-up is all you need.

Is a memory foam mattress good for pregnancy?

Many pregnant sleepers find memory foam comfortable, since it cushions the hips and lower back as your shape and sleeping position change.

Comfort needs vary a lot during pregnancy, so it's worth speaking with your midwife or GP if you have specific concerns, and trying a mattress in person before you commit. Our showroom in West Yorkshire has our full range to try.

Can I get a memory foam mattress on finance?

Yes. Every memory foam mattress at Bed Kingdom is available on 0% APR finance, subject to approval. See our finance options for full terms.

Will you deliver my memory foam mattress?

Yes, every memory foam mattress comes with free UK delivery.

Check our delivery page for full details, or contact us if you have any questions before you order.