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How To Break In A Memory Foam Mattress?

Ollie Lane

October 15, 2024

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How to Break In a Memory Foam Mattress

Breaking in a memory foam mattress involves giving the mattress time to adjust to your body and vice versa. Typically, it takes about 30 to 60 days to fully break in a new memory foam mattress. This process can be eased by daily use, applying gentle pressure, maintaining optimal room temperature, and using the right foundation.

Understanding Memory Foam Composition

Memory foam mattresses are gaining popularity due to their ability to contour to the shape of your body, offering excellent support and comfort. Made from viscoelastic foam, these mattresses are sensitive to temperature and pressure, allowing them to provide a customized sleeping experience. However, because they mold to the body, they initially may feel firmer than expected until they adjust fully to your body shape and weight.

Why Break-In Period Is Important

When you first receive a memory foam mattress, it may feel stiffer than the mattress you tested in the store or different from what you expected based on online reviews. This is because the mattress hasn’t yet acclimated to your body. The initial break-in period allows the memory foam to soften and conform to your specific shape, offering the comfort and support that makes memory foam so appealing.

Patience Is Key

The most crucial element in breaking in a memory foam mattress is patience. It typically takes between 30 to 60 days for a mattress to break in fully. During this period, the foam adjusts to your unique body contours and weight, making it more comfortable over time. It’s essential to sleep on the mattress every night during this period to expedite the break-in process.

Daily Use Accelerates the Process

Using the mattress daily helps expedite the break-in period. The more you lie on it, the faster the memory foam adjusts to your body. Try to avoid taking naps on your old mattress or couch during this period, as this could slow down the process. If possible, spend extra time on your new mattress, even when you’re not sleeping, such as reading or watching TV.

Applying Gentle Pressure

Aside from sleeping on the mattress, applying gentle pressure can help accelerate the break-in process. You can achieve this by walking or crawling on the mattress surface for a few minutes each day. Using your hands to apply pressure evenly across the mattress can also help. This helps compress the foam gradually and allows it to soften and adapt.

Temperature Considerations

Memory foam is highly temperature-sensitive, meaning its firmness can vary depending on the room temperature. Warmer environments tend to make the foam more pliable, while colder conditions can make it firmer. Maintaining an optimal room temperature of around 72°F (22°C) can help the mattress break in faster. If the room is too cold, consider using a space heater to warm up the bedroom slightly.

Using the Right Foundation

Your mattress foundation can significantly impact the break-in period and overall comfort. A solid or slatted foundation helps maintain the support and integrity of the memory foam. If using slats, ensure they are no more than 3 inches apart to prevent sagging. A box spring isn’t usually recommended for memory foam mattresses, as it doesn’t provide the even support required.

Rotating the Mattress

Rotating your mattress periodically can also help it break in more evenly. Memory foam mattresses are typically designed for one-sided use, so you can’t flip them like traditional mattresses. However, rotating the mattress 180 degrees every few weeks during the break-in period can help distribute the pressure more evenly and speed up the adjustment process.

Using a Mattress Topper

If you’re having difficulty adjusting to the firmness of the new mattress, a mattress topper can provide additional comfort during the break-in phase. A topper made from softer memory foam or other materials can offer a temporary layer of cushioning without hindering the break-in process. Once the mattress has softened, you can remove the topper if desired.

Open Air and Off-Gassing

When you first unpack your memory foam mattress, it may emit a chemical smell known as off-gassing. This is common and usually dissipates within a few days. To speed up this process, ensure the room is well-ventilated by opening windows and using fans. Allowing the mattress to breathe without bedding for a few hours can also help reduce the smell more quickly.

Understanding Your Body’s Adjustment

Just as the mattress needs time to adjust to your body, your body also needs time to adapt to the new sleeping surface. It’s normal to experience some initial discomfort or stiffness as your body gets used to the support and alignment provided by the new mattress. Give yourself time to adapt, as it can take a few weeks for your muscles and joints to fully adjust.

Manufacturer’s Break-In Guidelines

Each mattress manufacturer may have specific recommendations for breaking in their mattresses. It’s essential to read the care and maintenance guidelines provided with your mattress. Some companies even offer satisfaction guarantees that allow you to return the mattress after a certain period if you’re not satisfied, emphasizing the importance of completing the full break-in period before making a final decision.

Common Break-In Myths

There are several misconceptions about breaking in a memory foam mattress. One common myth is that a firm mattress is always better for your back. In reality, the best mattress is one that provides the right balance of support and comfort for your body type and sleeping position. Memory foam mattresses are designed to offer both, but they require time to reach their optimal state.

Another myth is that a mattress that feels uncomfortable initially will always be uncomfortable. As mentioned earlier, it often takes a few weeks for both your body and the mattress to adjust to each other. Therefore, it’s essential to be patient and follow the recommended break-in practices before deciding if the mattress is right for you.

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Long-Term Maintenance

Once your memory foam mattress has fully broken in, maintaining it properly will help retain its comfort and support for years to come. Regularly rotating the mattress, using a mattress protector, and keeping the bedroom at an optimal temperature are all crucial steps. Cleaning the mattress as per the manufacturer’s guidelines will also ensure it remains hygienic and in good condition.

Finishing Thoughts

Breaking in a memory foam mattress is a process that requires time and patience. By understanding the composition of memory foam, using the mattress daily, applying gentle pressure, maintaining the right temperature, and using appropriate foundations, you can significantly expedite the break-in period. While it may take a few weeks to adjust fully, the result is a mattress that offers customized support and comfort, enhancing your overall sleep quality. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and give yourself and the mattress time to adapt. With proper care, your memory foam mattress will be a valuable investment in your sleep health for years to come.