Mattress-shopping will have you come across technical or numerical terms that seem tricky. Foam density is one of them – probably one of the most important ones. The topic is complex, so let’s go through the most common misconceptions regarding density by explaining them with illustrations and examples.
What’s Foam Density?
We know from primary school science that density refers to the compactness of a material or the mass per unit volume of an object.
In mattress terms, m means the mass of a cubic metre section of a mattress measured in kilograms per cubic metre (kg/m3). For example, if a foam is 50kg/m3, that means each cubic metre of the foam weighs 50 kg.
Misconception #1: Density is not Equal to Firmness
A common misconception is that a higher density of the foam denotes a higher firmness level. This isn’t necessarily true. Imagine two cubes: one filled with feathers and the other filled with rocks. These both have a density of 30kg/m3. Having similar densities doesn’t mean the feather cube will be as firm as the rock cube is.
For reference, densities are categorised into low, medium, and high. This is an industry standard and you can ask companies for this if it’s not yet stated in their specifications.
Density Classification | Density in Units |
Low Density | 30kg/m3 and lower |
Medium Density | 30kg/m3 – 50kg/m3 |
High Density | 50kg/m3 and higher |
Misconception #2: Density is not Equal to Quality
Be careful not to assume from the classification above that a low-density foam will be a low-quality foam. Similarly, a higher density foam DOES NOT mean a higher quality foam.
If we go back to the example of feather and rock cubes that have the same density, sitting on the feather cube might cause you to sink to the bottom almost immediately – leading you to think that it is lesser intensile than the rock cube that can hold you up. But the thing about quality is it depends on the factor you’re measuring – is it its durability? Raw materials? Comfort?
The Bread Example
To better paint the picture between density and quality, here’s a new example – baking bread. In baking, you’ll need a secret recipe, good-quality dough, the right ingredients, and a top-notch cook to make great bread.
The same is true for foam – its quality will depend on the specific aspect of the foam you’re looking at. Quality cannot be defined by the characterization that it’s a high density foam. Other factors must be considered to prove its quality such as durability, the raw materials used, the method, foam mix, and even equipment/technology.
Indicators of Quality Foam
Raw Materials
Look into factors such as the kind of foam used (memory foam, polyurethane foam or pu foam, latex, synthetic/natural foam) and the adhesive used (if it’s chemical or water-based). If the mattress is multi-layered, educate yourself about each foam layer’s specs and whether it is consistent in quality with the other layers or not.
Companies are not always likely to share this information in the open, so make sure to ask!
What’s great about the Ecosa mattress is every type of foam it’s composed of:
First layer: G-7 Gel Memory Foam – Infused with gel particles for desired temperature stabilisation.
Second layer: Ergonomic Support Foam – Spine aligned and pressure points supported. No partner disturbance.
Third layer: ECO-Tex Memory Foam – Open cell foam layer bouncy like latex – only more durable and breathable.
The Mattress Construction
As in the baking example, a good mattress company needs a ‘secret recipe’ that outlines the entire make-up of their mattress. This includes details on the formula and cutting-edge technology (like Open-Cell Technology) behind the mattress that cannot be done without highly-skilled engineers and craftsmen.
Ecosa’s insider informants (aka its manufacturers and engineers) tell us that each foam layer is carefully selected to match the mattress design. Suffice to say, mattress construction is where science and art meet!
The Firmness of the Mattress
The surface feel of the foam is its firmness. As mentioned, firmness is independent of foam density. It is possible to have soft, high-density foams or lower density foams that are firm, depending on the IFD specification.
The Indentation Force Deflection (IFD) is a measurement using the force in pounds required to indent a foam sample by 25% of its original height.
Durability
You can expect more durability in a mattress that is well put together. When buying one, check out the warranty period offered. A mattress will likely be able to last (or even outlast) a warranty period when properly taken care of.
Care instruction
Ecosa has very easy care instructions. Unlike other mattresses, the Ecosa mattress is not required to be flipped upside down or rotated. Its cover may be removed, and machine washed.
Removable TencelTM Cover: 40% Tencel + 60% Premium poly cover with zipper. It’s an easy-to-zip-off premium washable cover. Keeps the air flowing freely.
Waterproof Inner Cover: German micro-filament technology keeps the mattress waterproof and dust mite-free.
Warranty
The Ecosa mattress has a 15-year limited warranty.
RELATED ARTICLE: The Pros and Cons of Memory Foam
Final Notes
Below is a recap of all things we learned today.
We hope this helps you come to a mattress decision based on facts. As a last reminder, don’t forget to check honest customer reviews. No one can vouch for the quality of a mattress better than people who use it.
When in doubt, just remember our illustrations, feather & rock cubes, and bread-baking!
And If you ever need an example of a high-quality memory foam mattress, you know where to find it!
Final Notes
Below is a recap of all things we learned today.
I hope it helps you come to mattress decisions based on facts. As a last reminder, don’t forget to check honest customer reviews. No one can vouch for the quality of a mattress better than people who actually use it.
When in doubt, just remember our illustrations, feather & rock cubes and bread-baking!
If you ever need an example of a high-quality memory foam mattress, just come our way. *wink*