Memory Foam vs. Gel Memory Foam Mattresses: What's the Difference?
Written by Mehran Uzair
Last Updated on Aug 08, 2022
The confusion between memory foam vs gel memory foam is quite common. The only difference is, gel beads are present in gel memory foam mattresses which makes them cooler than regular memory foam mattresses.
Both gel foam vs memory foam is made out of polyurethane further blended with chemicals to adapt to the body, relieve pressure, and respond to heat. While the memory foam mattresses have been gaining popularity since the 90s, the gel memory foam mattresses have started getting under the limelight post its manufacturing in 2006.
Differences Between Memory Foam and Gel Foam
No matter how similar gel foam vs memory foam is, there are quite a few differences between the two. Before spending quite a chunk of money, focus on the list of differences stated below.
| Parameters | Memory Foam | Gel Memory Foam |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Retention | Can trap body heat due to foam density and closed cell structure, Excess heat can disturb sleep | Cooling gels improve heat dispersion, Gel absorbs quickly and wicks it away |
| Price | Ranges between $300 to $2000 approx | Ranges between $500 to $3000 approx |
| Bounce | Open-cell memory foam retains their shape slightly longer Rotate mattress every 6 to 12 months | Bounces back faster to original shape Gel pods add a bouncy feel |
What Is a Memory Foam Mattress?
The memory foam mattress is developed by treating polyurethane with chemicals. It utilizes the sleeper’s body heat and pressure, molding to their body, eventually offering a cradling effect. Also known as viscoelastic foams, the memory foam adapts to the sleeper’s body type, offering pressure relief. Memory foam has gained popularity because of its temperature, pressure sensitivity, and overall cushioning effect.
Pros and Cons of Memory Foam Mattresses
Below are stated some of the pros and cons of memory foam mattresses:
Pros
- Pressure-relieving
- Cushioning effect
- Temperature-sensitivity
- Hypoallergenic
- Little maintenance required
Cons
- Quite heavy
- Hotter than normal mattress
- Slight smelly
What Is a Gel Foam Mattress?
Gel memory foam is developed with similar materials like traditional memory foam with one major different ingredient - gel. There are countless mini liquid gel beads amalgamated into the foam that helps make the surface cooler and more adaptable. This is a quite new introduction to the world of mattresses and is a great solution for people complaining of mattress overheating. The properties of gel memory foam are more or less the same.
Pros and Cons of Gel Memory Foam
There are certain advantages and disadvantages of gel memory foam that need to be considered before buying:
Pros
- Cooler sleep
- Helps contour the body
- It is quite firm
Cons
- There is a question about its durability
- Can be expensive
- Might give out a chemical smell
Similarities Between Memory Foam and Gel Foam
No wonder there are numerous similarities between memory foam and gel memory foam since they are produced of polyurethane and by similar manufacturers. Some of the common and primary similarities are listed below.
| Parameters | Similarities between memory foam and gel memory foam |
|---|---|
| Neck and head backing | Polyurethane foam adapts to the body shape, Conforms to diverse sleeping positions, Engineered to provide the best neck and head support |
| Stable Bed Movement | Foam mattress lends solidity, Suitable for those who share a bed with a partner or pet, Suitable for restless sleepers |
| Diverse Firmness | Varied firmness level (1-10) from softest (1) to ultra-supportive (10), Medium-firm (6-7) to firm (-8-9) for back sleepers , Soft (5 to 6) to medium-firm (6 to 7) for side sleeper |
| Pain Solution | Designed to offer moldable back and neck support Reduces achy joints and muscles |
| Hypoallergenic | Neither mattresses traps dust, bacteria, or mold, Suitable for those suffering from allergy |
Alternative Mattress Types
Apart from gel foam vs memory foam, there are certain mattress alternatives that customers can choose from. Let us throw some light on the same.
- Innerspring Mattresses: Quite traditional ones, innerspring mattresses are composed of lush top layers, coils, and a foam base. This is an affordable option for people desiring a luxurious, plush, and comfy mattress at a pocket-friendly price rather than gel foam vs memory foam.
- Latex Mattresses: Though a bit expensive, a latex mattress is a wonderful eco-friendly option. This mattress is a preferred alternative to the traditional memory foam mattress because of its organically cooling properties.
- Hybrid Mattresses: This mattress is designed by blending the supportive and adaptable memory foam with robust coils or latex for ultra comfort.
Maximum foam mattress manufacturers produce mattresses by combining all these elements to give customers the most relaxing sleep. Just, for instance, certain hybrid mattresses incorporate gel pods and memory foam along with individually wrapped innerspring coils.
Other Cooling Variations to Memory Foam Mattresses
The memory foam mattress manufacturers know abundant measures to provide a multitude of cooling experiences guaranteeing a relaxing and breezy night. Factors like the architecture, additives, plant-based replacements, and exterior material, all contribute to the coolness. Let us check some details of the same.
The Architecture of the Mattress
Certain mattresses are developed with convoluted air channels elevating the airflow and advancing the breathability feature. These channels either run vertically or design a zoned arrangement offering improved ventilation in distinct areas where airflow is mandatory.
Additives to Mattress
There are additives like graphite or copper that are helpful heat conductors. These escalate the mattress’ coolness by dispersing the warmth away, and giving you a cool headed and restful sleep throughout the night.
Plant-Based Replacements
Replacing petroleum with specific plant-based oils emits a breathable and more responsive memory foam for sleepers to experience a cooling sleep. Plant-based oils are more popular as cooling elements than synthetic petrochemicals.
Surface Material
Certain premium-quality mattresses might have unique cover materials like FDA-determined Celliant. This evolves the body heat into energy, alleviating cool sleep throughout the night.
When it comes to memory foam vs gel memory foam, certain main factors that might affect the purchase decision are heat retention, price, and bounce. A gel memory foam would be recommended for someone residing in a warm environment.
