How do waterbeds compare to memory foam mattresses?
Memory foam has increased in popularity in recent years, as the material that was initially produced to increased comfort for astronauts during shuttle launch has become more affordable for average consumers. The hype created around this new material, however, has led to a somewhat unbalanced view of its advantages. While memory foam is no doubt more ergonomic and beneficial than a regular mattress, it fails to live up to the performance of an already well established sleeping product - the waterbed.
One of the main selling points of the memory foam material is the way it reacts to heat to mould itself to the human body. The warmer the material gets, the softer it becomes, allowing pressure points on the body some relief, and evening out the users total weight. Waterbeds accomplish this exact same feat, and whereas memory foam takes a while to heat up and has a delayed reaction time when you shift positions, waterbeds mould to your shape instantly and can accommodate position changes instantly. Furthermore, waterbeds can be adjusted to the level of firmness or softness that you prefer, and this can be changed at any time by removing or adding water. Memory foam mattresses are bought at a certain firmness, and cannot be changed.
In addition to this fast response to position changes, waterbeds can also have their temperature changed as desired. Using water-temperature controls, you can adjust a waterbed with heat in colder months, or for those needing some theraputic warmth to help with joint problems and back pain.
While memory foam mattresses have been claimed to reduce the amount of
dust mites (therefore assisting those with asthma and dust
allergies), they can also sometimes have a chemical smell
when new, which can irritate those with sensitive sinus's or breathing
problems.
Waterbed's easy-cleanable surface and lack of material
ensures that dust mites have nowhere to live, and dust can be easiy wiped
off whenever required. Combined with allergy-safe bedding, a waterbed
may be the safest form of sleeping product for those with asthma.
Memory foam mattresses are no doubt an improvement on regular mattresses, but they cannot keep up with the range of benefits that a waterbed offer. For those wanting flexiblity with their sleeping surface, the option of theraputic heat and an allergy-safe, cleanable surface, a waterbed offers the best alternative within a similar affordable price range.
To see this comparison laid out in a chart, visit this page. For information dispelling some of the more common myths surrounding Waterbeds, see this page. For the benefits of converting to a waterbed, see this article.