Sleep Health
Published August 1, 2022
6 minMemory Foam vs. Gel Memory Foam Mattresses: What’s the Difference?
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 mattr
Table of contents
Differences Between Memory Foam and Gel Foam What Is a Memory Foam Mattress? What Is a Gel Foam Mattress? Similarities Between Memory Foam and Gel Foam Alternative Mattress Types Other Cooling Variations to Memory Foam Mattresses Frequently Asked Questions
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.
