Are memory foam mattresses hot?

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Some memory foam mattresses retain heat because of their dense structure, while others are designed to improve ventilation and dissipate heat.

Memory foam is a popular mattress material that offers excellent support and pressure relief. The material was initially developed for NASA to help cushion astronauts during flights. It was further developed and used in healthcare settings to improve patient comfort before being adapted to mattresses and pillows for commercial use.

However, a common complaint about memory foam mattresses is that they trap heat, making them uncomfortably warm.

male hand pressing down on memory foam material

Why do memory foam mattresses sleep hot?

Memory foam mattresses are typically constructed with different layers, each varying in thickness and density. Foam is a good insulator; the higher its density (or quality), the more heat it can trap.

Mattresses don’t produce heat themselves. If someone feels hot in bed, it is usually because of their body heat, not the mattress. This can happen with any mattress, even those without foam.

Other factors, such as room temperature, bedding, age, medications, and underlying health conditions, can make you feel hot in bed.

Memory foam tends to retain heat

Memory foam is a temperature-sensitive material, whereby body heat allows the foam to soften and closely conform to the body.

However, there is a drawback to this heat sensitivity. Memory foam can have a dense cell structure that traps heat. Poor airflow within the mattress may cause the body to become hotter, resulting in sweating and discomfort during sleep.

Better circulation

Unlike sprung mattresses that push back against the body when pressure is applied, memory foam conforms to the body and evenly distributes your weight. The material can alleviate painful pressure points, aches and pains. It can improve blood circulation, which, in turn, can make you feel warmer in bed.

It takes time to adjust to a memory foam mattress

Some people can initially find memory foam warm, especially when switching from a sprung mattress. However, as their body adjusts, they often become accustomed to the material.

If your memory foam mattress is new, you might be able to return it if you struggle to adapt to it. Many online brands offer sleep trials, allowing you to return the mattress if it doesn’t meet your needs.

Are there memory foam mattresses that keep you cool?

Although manufacturers have developed ways to reduce heat retention, such as open-cell foams, cooling gels, and breathable covers, memory foam can feel warmer than other mattress types. For those who naturally radiate more heat, it may be best to avoid memory foam.

Open-cell structure

Some memory foam mattresses have an open-cell structure, which is more responsive to weight and temperature. The design allows the foam to soften and better conform to body shape. Air can also circulate more freely inside the foam, which helps disperse heat.

Gel

Manufacturers sometimes add gel into their memory foam mattresses for its cooling properties. Gel-infused memory foam is created by mixing gel particles or beads into the foam. Some mattresses also include a gel grid layer with hexagonal or square columns that adapt to the body, providing excellent support and pressure relief. The open-cell design improves airflow, creating a cooler sleeping surface.

Cooling fabrics

Memory foam mattresses often have breathable covers designed to draw moisture away from the skin, helping you stay cooler in bed. These covers are often made from materials like polyester, cotton, bamboo, or Tencel. Some covers are also removable, making keeping the sleeping surface clean and in good condition easier.

How to sleep cooler on memory foam

The ideal bedroom temperature for sleep is between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit (15.5 to 19.5 degrees Celsius). If you have concerns about feeling too warm on a memory foam mattress, there are several ways to keep cool and comfortable in bed.

Keep your bedroom cool

Lowering your bedroom temperature by a few degrees can help you feel cooler at night. Open windows and doors to let cooler air into the bedroom and improve ventilation. Close your curtains or blinds during the day to block out sunlight and keep the room cooler. You can also use an electric fan to help circulate the air.

Switch to light and breathable sleepwear and bedding

The sleepwear and bedding you use can affect your sleep quality. Fabrics that trap heat can make you feel warm and disrupt your sleep.

Switching to lightweight, loose, and breathable sleepwear made from materials like cotton and silk can help you sleep cooler. Also, consider sleeping in just your underwear.  

Remove extra blankets, use a lower tog duvet and ensure your mattress protector is thin and breathable. A thick mattress protector can trap heat and affect comfort by adding an additional layer between you and the mattress.  

You could also consider using a mattress topper, an additional layer you place on top of your mattress to make it more comfortable. Mattress toppers are typically around one to four inches deep. They are available in breathable materials like wool and latex, which help your mattress feel cooler.

Upgrade to a bigger bed

If you share a bed, your partner may be radiating more heat, making the bed feel warmer, especially when you’re intimate.  

Try keeping some space between you and your partner to improve airflow and stay cooler. Upgrading to a larger bed provides more sleeping space and reduces the likelihood of disturbing each other.

Alternatives to memory foam

If you’re uncertain whether memory foam is suitable, there are several other mattress types to consider.

Natural latex

Natural latex is a good alternative to memory foam. It moulds and adapts to the body like memory foam but has a slightly bouncier feel. Natural latex is an exceptionally durable material that provides excellent support and pressure relief. Its pin-hole structure improves airflow, creating a cooler sleeping surface.

Pocket springs

Pocket springs are a good option if you have reservations about foam. Pocket springs are smaller, softer springs encased in fabric and stitched together. Each spring works independently, allowing the mattress to better conform to body shape and respond to weight.

Higher-quality pocket spring mattresses often contain natural materials, such as cotton, silk, and wool, which are moisture-absorbent and breathable.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses combine different materials, typically foam and springs. The comfort layer, usually 2 to 4 inches deep, is made from materials like memory foam or latex for cushioning and pressure relief. The base layer usually consists of a spring system that provides the underlying support. Hybrid mattresses are generally cooler than all-foam models because they allow better airflow between the springs.

Final thoughts

Traditional memory foam mattresses were known for feeling warm because they closely conformed to the body, trapping heat within the mattress. Since then, manufacturers have improved memory foam by developing ways to disperse heat and regulate temperature.

However, a pocket spring or natural latex mattress might be a better option if you naturally feel warm in bed.

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About the author

Tony Brown is the founder and creator of The Bed Consultant. His career in the bed industry began in 2002. After graduating from university with a degree in Business Administration, Tony joined one of the largest independent furniture retailers in the UK as a bed consultant. Tony has helped thousands of customers find the perfect mattress.

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