Sleep Health

Published January 31, 2023

6 min

Memory Foam vs. Gel Memory Foam Mattress

DreamCloud Editorial Team

Table of contents

What is Memory Foam What is Gel Memory Foam Differences Between Memory Foam and Gel Foam Benefits of Memory Foam and Gel-Infused Foam How Should You Choose? Possible Alternatives Conclusion Frequently Asked Questions

If you're in the market for a new mattress, you may have come across the terms "memory foam" and "gel memory foam" and wondered how they differ. These are often compared regarding their properties and benefits, particularly in the topic of memory foam vs gel memory foam in mattresses. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at the key differences and understand the benefits to help you select the best fit for your sleep needs.

What is Memory Foam

Memory foam is a type of polyurethane foam popular for its ability to conform to the shape of a person's body and provide pressure relief. Interestingly, it was originally developed by NASA for airplane seats and has since been widely used for mattresses, pillows, and cushions. This foam is denser and more heat-sensitive than traditional polyurethane foam, making it ideal for providing support

What is Gel Memory Foam

It is a foam made by adding gel particles to traditional memory foam. It provides the same pressure-relieving benefits as conventional memory foam but has added temperature regulation and cooling properties. These foams are designed to absorb and distribute heat away from the body, providing a cooler sleeping surface for hot sleepers. So, if you're looking for a foam that can easily conform to the body shape and provide pressure relief and support, this one can be the right choice!

Differences Between Memory Foam and Gel Foam

1. Construction:

Memory foam better adjusts to the shape of your body. In contrast, gel memory foam is made by adding gel beads to traditional memory foam, providing pressure relief and immediately returning to its shape.

2. Cooling properties:

When comparing memory foam vs gel memory foam, it must be noted that the latter is typically cooler to the touch than traditional memory foam because of its gel beads. This can be beneficial for people who tend to sleep hot.

3. Pressure relief:

Memory foam is known for providing excellent pressure relief. Gel memory foam also does the job, but it may not be as effective as the other.

4. Durability:

Memory foam and gel memory foam mattresses are both known for their durability, but when it comes to lifespan, traditional memory foam may have a slight edge. The question of how long do memory foam mattresses last is 7-8 years if taken good care of.

5. Response time:

Memory foam takes a bit longer to return to its original shape, while gel memory foam usually has a faster response time.

6. Odor:

Memory foam often has a distinct smell when it is new due to the off-gassing of chemicals used during manufacturing. This is one of the many factors that you should consider when comparing gel foam vs memory foam. On the other hand, gel memory foam may also have an odor, but it is often less robust than traditional memory foam.

7. Firmness:

When considering gel mattresses vs memory foam, the firmness level can vary depending on the specific product. While memory foam is known for its pressure-relieving properties, gel memory foam mattresses often have a firmer feel.It's important to note that each person has their preferences regarding comfort and support. Hence, it's recommended to try out different types of mattresses, especially while considering memory foam mattress vs gel infused foam mattresses, to determine the best fit for your needs and preferences.

Benefits of Memory Foam and Gel-Infused Foam

Memory foam and gel-infused foam are among the most popular mattress materials that offer a range of benefits to sleepers. One significant benefit of memory foam is that it provides excellent support for the head and neck. On the other hand, gel-infused memory foam offers the same contouring and pressure-relieving properties as regular memory foam but with the added benefit of a cooler sleep surface. The gel beads in the foam absorb and dissipate heat, which keeps you comfortable throughout the night and helps with chronic pain as they provide excellent pressure relief.

How Should You Choose?

Deciding between memory foam and gel-infused foam can be difficult, as both types offer unique benefits and drawbacks. However, when it comes to the comparison of memory foam vs gel mattress, you must consider two main factors: temperature regulation and pressure relief. If you prefer sleeping hot, go for gel-infused foam, but memory foam would be a better option if you prefer a warmer sleep surface. Moreover, memory foam conforms to your body shape, while gel-infused foam provides the same contouring and pressure relief but with a cooler sleep surface. So, choose the one that best matches your personal preference!

Possible Alternatives

If you're looking for a change from the traditional memory foam or gel-infused foam mattresses, you might want to consider alternative options:

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses are known for their durability and excellent support for the head and neck. In addition, latex is a naturally responsive material that adjusts to the body's shape, making it ideal for people with frequent pain or discomfort in their neck and shoulders.

Innerspring Mattresses

These are popular alternatives as they allow good airflow , which can help to keep sleepers cool. In addition, these also provide good body support and are great for people who like a bouncier and more traditional feel of a mattress.

Hybrid Mattresses

These are made of a combination of materials, including coils, foam, and sometimes latex. This combination of materials can be especially beneficial for people who like the feel of a traditional innerspring mattress but want the pressure relief and contouring of foam.

Conclusion

A memory foam and gel memory foam mattress are both great choices for a good night's sleep. However, it all depends on your preferences when deciding which mattress best suits your needs. So, be sure to test each type of mattress before purchasing to determine which one is optimal for you!Disclaimer: This website does not offer medical advice nor professional medical services; rather, it is provided solely for educational, informational, and/or entertainment purposes. Individuals seeking medical advice should consult a licensed physician. The information provided should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any condition, disease, or injury. When you have a medical condition, you should always talk to licensed doctor or other certified medical professional. You should never delay seeking professional medical advice or treatment based on the contents of this website. Call 911 or immediately go to the nearest emergency room if you think you may have a medical emergency. The contents of this website are provided "as-is", Dreamcloud Sleep and its parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, employees, contributors disclaim any warranty of the information contained herein. Please contact support@dreamcloud.com to report any errors, omissions, misinformation, or abuse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a gel pillow better than memory foam? It depends on personal preference, both have their benefits, so it’s best to try both types to see which one you prefer. Is gel memory foam healthy? It is generally considered safe & non-toxic , but it is recommended to research and choose a mattress made of high-quality materials to ensure safety and comfort. Is gel memory foam good for side sleepers? Yes, it can provide good pressure relief for side sleepers , but it’s important to ensure that the mattress has enough support and that the gel layer is not too thin. What are the pros and cons of a gel mattress? Pros of a gel mattress include improved temperature regulation & pressure relief, while cons include the potential for heat retention and higher cost than traditional mattresses. Can you flip a gel memory foam mattress? No, gel memory foam mattresses are not designed to be flipped and should be used only one side up.