Viscoelastic vs Memory Foam: What's the Difference?
- By Jessica
- Last Update: Oct 12, 2023
In the realm of comfort and support, viscoelastic and memory foam stand as two giants. Both materials are prevalent in products like mattresses, pillows, and cushions, offering a unique blend of benefits to enhance sleep quality and overall comfort.
What makes them differ from each other? Let’s dive into the intricate world of viscoelastic and memory foam to uncover their differences, benefits, and drawbacks.
What Is Visco Elastic Foam?
Visco elastic, also known as memory foam, is a blend of polyurethane foam and other chemical products with low resilience. Viscoelastic foam first served as airplane cushions by a NASA contract during the 1970S. It then graduated into mattresses, pads, pillows, and furnishings.
Visco elastic foam differs from other polyurethane types because of its low resistance and slow response. This can be seen when it comes in contact with pressure. It comes with a soft surface for contouring, while its slow response minimizes bounce.
Additionally, visco elastic foam tends to off-gas. It implies people with lung sensitivities can be affected if the quality of the foam is not good.
What Is Memory Foam?
Memory foam is a form of polyurethane with lower resistance. This implies it reacts and gently reforms once you release pressure from it. It also makes up your mattress surface.
Memory foam is also called viscoelastic or low-resistance foam. This is because it gently reforms when you withdraw pressure from it.
This material usually tends to soften when it accesses your body heat. It then blends to your unique contours and distributes your weight evenly.
What Is the Difference?
The only clear difference between memory and viscoelastic foam is the name. There is no other outstanding difference between the two materials.
Visco elastic foam is another name for memory foam. It appears in some brand names for memory foam mattresses like ViscoSoft.
Below are several features you can look out for in a viscoelastic foam or memory foam.
Comfort and Support
Viscoelastic foam comes with a comfort layer, which is the top section of the mattress. The layer gives cushioning and contouring to your body. It is also designed with more breathable foams. They help to reduce heat transfer on the sleeping surface.
Additionally, the memory foam consists of a core, which is the base of the mattress. The core consists of a much firmer foam and is also the largest layer. It gives stability and support to your bed via the other foam layers.
There is also a transitional layer with one or more foam layers between the core and the comfort layers. A transitional layer helps to keep heat away from your comfort layer.
Durability and Lifespan
A typical memory foam mattress can serve you between six to eight years. However, it may only last six years if it’s a cheaper version. Afterward, you may notice body impressions, sagging, and compromised support.
Other memory foam models last 15 to 20 years. This is due to material quality and a good combination of foams.
Heat Retention and Breathability
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