| We look at the technology behind the memory foam
mattress topper. Scientific discoveries
Although memory foam was originally developed by NASA it was
never actually used in a spaceship because it wasn’t
suitable to be used in a closed environment due to the
chemicals it contained. However, the memory foam mattress
was developed by the medical industry because its design
meant it was a solution to pressure sores. The researchers
obviously overcame the problem of chemical leakage, and now
memory foam mattress toppers are considered the best product
for anyone with an allergy, including asthma, because they
are hypoallergenic.
How does it work?
Memory foam is different from ordinary foam because it
doesn’t fight to spring back into shape. Instead it spreads,
altering its shape depending on the weight and shape of load
it is bearing. In a memory foam mattress topper this means
that it moulds to the body’s shape, cushioning the torso.
It’s also temperature sensitive, and so responds to body
heat. In lower temperatures it is harder, and the warmer it
gets, the softer it becomes. This is why it’s important to
get the correct type of mattress cover – you need a cover
that allows your body heat through the fabric.
Medical benefits
Memory foam mattress toppers mould to your body shape, and
help to support your spine in the correct position while you
sleep. Because the mattress cradles the body, joints are not
subjected to undue pressure – if you are used to waking with
stiff joints, you probably need a memory foam mattress
topper. They are also recommended for people who may be
bed-bound for any length of time because they help to
prevent bed sores.
NASA
In the early 1970's, NASA's Ames Research Centre funded a
development project designed to create a substance that
could help relieve astronauts of the incredible g-forces
experienced during lift-off. They believed that one of the
key secrets to reducing g-forces on the body was to use a
foam material that could conform to each person's shape and
hold this conformity. They created a new foam that was visco-elastic
and therefore able to conform to a person's shape, but then
come back to a normal shape once pressure was removed from
the foam. This could allow an even distribution of pressure
or body weight over the entire surface of the foam, but
quickly adapt to any movements of the body. Thus the memory
foam mattress topper was born.
What’s that smell?
Memory foam mattress toppers can emit a strong smell when
they are brand new, but this is non-toxic and should
disappear within a few days. A natural way to get rid of
odours is to place a dish of vinegar in the room – it will
‘eat’ the smell.
To order your Prima Comfort memory foam mattress toppers and
pillows today
call 01664 485013 or click the button below.
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