How to choose a memory foam pillow: TOP-7 rating of the best anatomical and orthopedic models, washing and care, sizes, reviews and prices

Memory foam manufacturing companies promise clients a healthy, sound and comfortable sleep. However, different models differ from each other in fillers, moreover, the quality of some of them leaves much to be desired. You can learn about its advantages and how to choose the right products with a memorable effect from this article.

Mattresses with memory effect have high anatomical and healing properties

Sleeping products with body shape memory can be either spring or springless. Most companies produce spring products with several fillings.

Memory Spring Mattress

Today there are two types of memory foam.

Thermoelastic. This type of material needs warmth. A good effect can be obtained only after heating. It's cheap. Approximately 800 dollars.

Thermoelastic foam takes on body shape after exposure to heat, does not work in cold rooms
Viscoelastic. Products with this type of foam are of higher quality and are adaptable to any temperature. But it also costs more – up to 3 thousand dollars.

Viscoelastic foam works equally well at any room temperature

What is a memory foam pillow?

The material is made from polyurethane foam with the addition of carbon using a special technology. The plastic filler has a porous structure with small cells. The soft and enveloping material perfectly adapts to the contours of the body, weight and temperature of the person. After use, the pillow soon returns to its original appearance.

Memory Foam in action using the example of the Tempur Cloud Breeze model.

One of the best, but rarely seen models, Casper Foam perfectly follows the anatomy of the body.

If you press your hand on the pillow and release, the print does not disappear instantly, but gradually. This property is called the memory effect. If the action is repeated with a traditional pillow, it will immediately return to its original position. The filler distributes the load pointwise. In a zone where pressure and temperature are higher, the pillow becomes significantly softer. In other places the material feels solid.

When a person is resting, the product provides additional support for the head and neck. Memory foam pillows allow you to maintain a deep sleep phase for a long time. A person turns over less, blood circulates better, which means he will feel good. Orthopedic pillows with memory foam have therapeutic and preventive functions; they prevent such a serious disease as osteochondrosis.

Types and principle of operation

Memory Foam can be thermoplastic or viscoplastic. The first option is a budget option and copes with its functions only at a certain temperature. The second one is of much better quality and always works.

Under the influence of a person’s temperature and weight, the memory begins to follow the contours of his body. It’s as if you find yourself in a pleasant viscous “swamp” or weightlessness. The spine, joints and muscles are unloaded, blood flow is normalized. As soon as you rise, the material will return to its original shape. This usually takes no more than 10 seconds.

How does Memory Foam feel?

A memory foam pillow does not bounce too much under your head and neck. It neatly and carefully flows around all the curves of the body. A person does not feel the pressure of the pillow, but at the same time feels reliable support at the points of contact. The sleeping accessory does not push away the body, but smoothly envelops and immerses itself, repeating its shape. If the sleeper turns, the pillow adjusts to other parameters.

The effect of weightlessness is felt, the head seems to float above the surface of the pillow. A person practically does not feel it and does not experience pressure on himself. This effect has a beneficial effect on the health of the spine. The muscles relax, the body straightens, the blood flow stabilizes, and the brain begins to receive enough oxygen. It takes less time to sleep, as strength is restored faster.

In the first days, consumers often experience discomfort while sleeping on a new pillow. After just 1-2 nights, sleeping becomes more comfortable and negative feelings disappear.

Short story

Polymer foam made of polyurethane was created for astronauts in the mid-60s of the last century; it helped reduce the load on the body during flights.

Thanks to its ability to “remember,” it easily adjusted to the shape of the body and did not put pressure on soft tissues. But this development also had obvious disadvantages: strong heating, due to which a person began to actively sweat, and an unpleasant odor.

In the 80s, the production technology was improved and began to be used in sports, medicine, and after another improvement (at the end of the century) - in everyday life. Foam was used to fill mattresses and pillows, which were used in hospital departments and at home to care for bedridden patients, people with burns, diseases of the joints, and the spine.

Memoryforms began to be actively used only in our century. It finally stopped smelling bad, costing a lot, causing excessive sweating, and most importantly, it acquired a lot of benefits.

Who exactly suits and who doesn’t suit

Manufacturers of pillows with Memory Foam cooperate with orthopedic and medical centers. Sleep accessories with memory foam are used in complex therapy if a person is bothered by the following conditions:

Pain in the head, neck, shoulders . Memory foam pillows relieve muscle tension and help eliminate ailments.
Insomnia, feeling tired in the morning . A person falls asleep much faster, sleep is not interrupted due to an uncomfortable position.
Snoring stops disturbing the sleeper and the people around him . The Memory Foam pillow keeps your head at the optimal height, allowing air to flow freely.
Apnea, or stopping breathing for 15-30 seconds, does not threaten consumers who like to sleep on their back . Memory pillows allow you to quickly get used to a more beneficial sleep position.
Heartburn is less of a concern or disappears altogether . It is recommended to sleep on your left side, with your upper body resting on a raised pillow.

Pillows with Memory Foam are not included in the official list of medical and orthopedic products. The doctor recommends a useful sleep accessory; he does not write out a prescription, but only advises on the best parameters to choose the model. Absolutely healthy people can also use memory foam pillows for preventive purposes. It is especially useful to use products with memory foam for people who spend a lot of time at the computer.

Principle of operation

The heat of the human body affects the foam, so it becomes more elastic. It evenly distributes the weight of the load and gently envelops the body. During rest, the spine relaxes, and in the morning a person feels invigorated.

The foam also has a slight warming effect. It accelerates blood circulation, which also relieves fatigue and improves the condition of blood vessels and joints. Because of their ability to remember body position, such fillers are popularly called “smart” foam.

There are two types of memory foam mattresses:

viscoelastic;
thermoelastic.

The former are of high quality, and their foam quickly adapts to the ambient temperature. Thermoelastic - cheaper mattress models. They need to be kept in a warm room, since the foam exhibits its functions only after heating.

In a cold bedroom, the filler loses its elasticity.

Memory orthopedic mattresses have open cells that allow air to pass through. They are used in hospitals. They are used as anti-bedsores for patients with skin diseases and paralyzed patients.

A springless, thin memory foam mattress or topper can adapt to the movements and contours of the human body. And when the sleeper gets up from it, the product takes on its original appearance. But it can only be used as a mattress pad to smooth out the hardness of the bed, since the mattress is quite thin - up to 10 cm.

Customer reviews: advantages and disadvantages

The product allows air to pass through well.
Moisture quickly evaporates from the filler due to its porous structure.
Maintains optimal temperature. If the room is cold, the pillow does not cool down.
A good therapeutic effect is observed. The head and neck are well supported.
The products are hypoallergenic and antibacterial. No microorganisms appear. Dust does not accumulate.
Long service life. The product does not deform for a long time, since wear-resistant material is used in production.

They cannot be washed, otherwise the porous structure of the filler will be damaged. The memory effect disappears.
Characteristic chemical smell. If the model is made of high-quality materials, pungent aromas will disappear within a week.
High cost of some models.

Features of memory mattresses

Nowadays you can buy memory foam mattresses

, filled with smart foam, as well as products with combined fillers. All products differ in the degree of rigidity, it depends on the density of the foam. The higher the density of the foam, the more rigid the product, the longer the service life and the higher the cost.

Types of mattresses with smart foam:

Mattresses with spring blocks in the middle part of the product and foam on both sides.

Springless with foam filler.

A double-sided product, with foam on one side and a spring block on the other.

Double-sided product with different types of fillers.

Regardless of the layers in the product, you can feel the effect of smart foam only if the thickness of the product is from 6 to 16 centimeters.

How to choose a memory foam pillow

To purchase a truly useful model for health, you need to consider a number of parameters.

Material of manufacture

Memory Foam pillows are produced with the following types of filler:

Memory foam. Made from viscoelastic polyurethane foam.

Tempur . Improved foam with a more pliable and soft texture.

Latex . The material is made from rubber. It is characterized by high density.

Soy foam .
Polyurethane foam with the addition of natural soybean oil. Polyester made from many beads . Lightweight and practical material. Machine washable.

Size

You should not purchase models that are too large. Only the person's head and neck should be placed on the pillow. You need to focus on these indicators:

40 × 60 cm – for people of average build;
50 × 70 cm – for broad-shouldered and large people;
20 × 30 and up to 40 × 50 cm – for children and teenagers.

It is necessary to select a pillow so that your head rests comfortably on it and does not roll off.

Height

It is important to choose a model so that you do not want to put your hand under the pillow. The head and spine should be on the same line. The neck muscles in this position completely relax and recover well during rest.

To understand how high a pillow you need to purchase, you should measure the distance from the edge of your shoulder to your neck. The height of the pillow should be equal to the width of the shoulder and not exceed this figure. The following height parameters must be adhered to:

for sleeping on the back – 6-11 cm;
for sleeping on the side – 9-13 cm;
for sleeping on the stomach – 6-8 cm.

For a person of normal build, a pillow with a height of 10-14 cm is usually suitable.

A little about the history of the Skechers brand

In 1983, a certain R. Greenberg opened a shoe company in the USA called LA Gear, the products of which, even in the early days of its existence, were in unprecedented demand. At one time, its products even provided healthy competition to such giants as Reebok and Nike, but the success did not last long: already in 1991, the founder had to sell his brainchild. Fortunately, the proceeds of $100 million were more than enough to launch a new project called Skechers, which was released in 1992.

Article on the topic: How to choose nine west shoe size

At first, Greenberg and his son planned to distribute Dr. shoes. Martens, but very soon the decision was made to produce and promote products under its own brand. This time they decided to start not with sports shoes, but with fashionable casual shoes for young people, and the first model of the new company was men's Cascades boots in the then popular “grunge” style. In 1997, the brand entered the international market and very soon was again able to compete with the giants of the sports and other footwear market. Today, Skechers products are represented in more than 170 countries around the world.

Remember

An orthopedic pillow does not guarantee immediate relief from pain and snoring. But it can be used to prevent neck and back diseases.
An orthopedist does not prescribe an orthopedic pillow, but may recommend one.
Decide on the size of the pillow. To do this, measure your shoulder height and remember the position in which you sleep.
The surface and filling of the pillow depend on individual sensations.
To ensure that the pillow retains its orthopedic properties, follow the rules for caring for the pillow: air, shake and wash the covers according to the instructions on the label. When not in use, store it in a fabric case.

Rating of TOP 7 best models

TRELAX Respecta P05 M

5.0 Rating

Type: orthopedic Size: 38 × 60 cm Filling: polyurethane foam, silver ions Cover material: 100% cotton

Pillowcase fabric: 35% lyocell, 65% polyester Support level: medium Height: 10/12 cm

The pillow smoothly adapts to the human body. You can sleep on it in any position. Two bolsters, 10 and 12 cm high, comfortably support the head and neck. Silver ions are added to the filler; they protect the material from the formation of bacteria. The pillow is made from hypoallergenic materials and does not collect dust. The fabric of the pillowcase includes lyocell, a eucalyptus fiber. The head does not sweat, it is very comfortable to sleep.

Blue Sleep

4.9 Rating

Type: anatomical Size: 60 × 38 cm Filling: Memory Granular Foam Cover material: knitwear

Pillowcase fabric: 60% polyester, 40% lyocell Support level: medium Height: 11 cm

The pillow contains unique granules that neutralize electromagnetic waves during sleep. The model is impregnated with special microflora and is resistant to the appearance of harmful microorganisms. A cooling gel has been added to the filler; it maintains optimal temperature balance. The only disadvantage of the pillow is its high cost.

Askona Beauty Dream

4.9 Rating

Type: anatomical Size: 38 × 59 cm Filling: foam + shape memory

Cover material: Outlast Support level: elastic Height: 11 cm

The pillow has a unique shape, there is a head fixation area and a recess for the face and shoulders. Suitable for side and back sleepers. Provides proper support for the head and neck. The cover is made from innovative Outlast fabric, which maintains a comfortable temperature. A 3D mesh is sewn around the perimeter, which promotes intensive air exchange. The case is equipped with a zipper. The pillow not only brings a healing effect, but also fights wrinkles and swelling. Skin creases do not appear during sleep.

You should get used to the model gradually; at first it seems rigid.

Fosta F 8021

4.7 Rating

Type: orthopedic Size: 50 × 30 cm Filling: polyurethane foam 100%

Cover material: 100% polyester Support level: medium Height: 10/12 cm

The removable pillow cover is decorated with jacquard embossing and can be easily washed in warm water. The polyurethane foam filler is susceptible to changes in human temperature and has a relaxing effect on the vertebrae, ligaments and joints. The model is produced with two bolsters 10 and 12 cm. They provide comfortable support for the neck and head. The disadvantages include the fabric of the pillowcase; it is made of polyester.

SONNO MYST

4.6 Rating

Type: orthopedic Size: 60 × 42 cm Filling: adaptive latex Visco

Cover material: cotton 50%, microfiber 50% Support level: elastic Height: 12 cm

Prices: summary comparison table

Pillow name	Characteristics				Price	Grade
Pillow name	Size	Filler	Material	Degree of support	Price	Grade
TRELAX Respecta P05 M	38 × 60 × 10/12 cm	polyurethane foam, silver ions	cotton 100%, pillowcase 35% lyocell, 65% polyester	average	4 938	5,0
Blue Sleep	46 × 36 × 11 cm	Memory Granular Foam	Belgian knitwear, 60% polyester, 40% lyocell	average	7 439	4,9
Askona Beauty Dream	38 × 59 × 11 cm	foam + shape memory	Outlast	elastic	6 590	4,9
Fosta F 8021	50 × 30 × 10/12 cm	polyurethane foam	polyester 100%	average	2 050	4,7
SONNO MYST	60 × 42 × 12 cm	latex adaptive Visco	cotton 50%, microfiber 50%	elastic	2 841	4,6
Luomma LumF-515	31 × 52 cm rollers 9/14 cm, without blocks – 5/10 cm	polyurethane foam	polycotton, bamboo fiber pillowcase	average	2 410	4,5
Sortex Memory foam	50 × 29 × 12 cm	polyurethane foam	knitwear, three-layer air-mesh, polyester pillowcase	average	1 965	4,2

Washing, cleaning and care

Pillows may turn yellow during use. Don’t be upset, the beneficial properties and hygiene are preserved.

Polyurethane-based pillows cannot be washed. As a result, the integrity of the porous structure of the material will be compromised, the pillow will lose its shape and all its beneficial properties. If a lot of moisture gets inside the pillow, mold, mildew, bacteria form, and an unpleasant odor appears.

Memory Foam pillows can simply be wiped with a cloth moistened with soapy water. Stains should be removed immediately while they are fresh. You can sprinkle baking soda on the dirty area and then lightly rub it with a damp sponge or cloth.

The removable cover is machine washable on a delicate cycle.

The choice of a memory foam pillow depends on the personal preferences of the consumer, but do not forget that they significantly affect a person’s health and quality of life. Before purchasing a new product, you should analyze all the parameters and take into account your favorite sleeping position. It’s better to test the pillow right away in the store and lie on the models you like for a while. Now many salons provide this opportunity. A pillow that is comfortable to lie on will give you a comfortable and healthy sleep.

Solution to foot problems

Once, in a conversation with a friend, I told him about my situation, and he advised me to try Skechers shoes. They say they have magic insoles that will solve problems. A friend’s wife has problems with her paws similar to mine – she also has knuckles on her feet (and therefore flat feet). In her case, the right shoes eliminated the need for urgent surgery.

Well, I decided to try... Studying on the Internet, walking around Sportmaster and talking with local sellers gave me information that Memory Foam is a technology for manufacturing insoles, thanks to which the foot takes the most convenient and comfortable position. Foam or gel there is not the point. One thing is important - your legs are comfortable and they don’t get tired.

For a test on my last trip to Pattaya, I chose shoes with such an insole. What can I say... I remembered the times when it was no problem for me to walk 15-20 km. Finally, I calmly walked around Pattaya all day long, and that evening I no longer suffered with my legs, but walked to the clubs where I spent time until the morning. ))

So I’ve tested it the hard way – Skechers shoes with Memory Foam insoles are really cool!

Memory Foam: advantages and disadvantages of mattresses and pillows with this filler

What is a memory foam pillow?

Types and principle of operation

How does Memory Foam feel?

Short story

Who exactly suits and who doesn’t suit

Principle of operation

Recommended by topic

Customer reviews: advantages and disadvantages

Features of memory mattresses

Types of mattresses with smart foam:

How to choose a memory foam pillow

Material of manufacture

Size

Height

A little about the history of the Skechers brand

Recommended by topic

Form

Remember

Rating of TOP 7 best models

TRELAX Respecta P05 M

Blue Sleep

Askona Beauty Dream

Fosta F 8021

SONNO MYST

Recommended by topic

Luomma LumF-515

Sortex Memory foam

Prices: summary comparison table

Washing, cleaning and care

Solution to foot problems