How can I make memory foam healthy?

Sarah asked

4th May 2012

I bought an ergoflex memory foam mattress – I found it very comfortable but got really stressed about the amount of potential negative health issues being bandied around in connection with these mattresses.

I then researched and have bought an Essentia Beausomment mattress from Canada at around £2800.

This is sold as a healthier alternative to memory foam – a latex core with a ‘natural’ memory foam top.

This is sitting on a brass bed with some chip board as a base.

This new mattress feels quite soft and I am getting a degree of back discomfort.

I really like the idea of a healthy mattress, but wonder if I can do anything to make it more comfortable Do you know anything about these mattresses and would it be better on a different type of base.

I am hoping you don’t mind me asking this question, but you seem to be full of excellent knowledge and advice.

Many thanks Sarah.

1 Answer

Lee Staff

answered 12 years ago

Hi Sarah.

I had a quick look at this particular mattress and am a bit taken aback at the price you were willing to pay for what is essentially a latex mattress.

Even the top of range Dunlopillo Coronation is £1800 by comparison.

Your concerns about memory foam are indeed well founded by anecdotal evidence such as headaches, irritation etc, and it comes as no surprise that companies who have a vested interest in Memory Foam products will, of course, counterclaim.

For the price you paid for this particular mattress I would be inclined to see what the retailer suggests.

The description states this to be on the firm side which doesn’t match up to your comment, but of course, an overall firmness can only be gauged by the [body]weight applied.

For example, if you are 26st you will be finding the mattress too soft (or more precisely – unsupportive).