How to buy gel foam mattresses?
Supportive and cuddly sleeping comfort
For some time now, you have been having back pain when you get up in the morning. It feels as if your spine has been sagging all night. A new mattress should bring relief, and you choose a gel foam mattress. After just one night, you notice a difference, because the mattress adjusts to your lying position and supports your spine. This means you can start the day well-rested and relaxed. You can read more about the advantages of gel foam mattresses here.
What are gel foam mattresses?
As the name suggests, gel foam mattresses contain a special gel foam. Additional layers can be comfort foam, cold foam or spring core. The gel foam reacts to pressure rather than heat. It gives way particularly in the areas that press more heavily into the mattress. If you lie on your side, these are the hip and shoulder bones, for example. The foam relieves pressure on your joints and the entire spine. The foam always adapts to your lying position, even if you turn frequently in your sleep. This means that no hollows are created.
By the way: The mattresses are breathable and therefore have good temperature regulation. This also prevents dust mites.
The good at the core: What you need to know about mattress cores
Mattresses come in different designs. You can read about which type of mattress has which advantages here.
Cold foam mattress
Mattresses made of cold foam are divided into different lying zones and are therefore very point-elastic. This means that your body is ergonomically supported when lying down, as heavier areas such as the pelvis sink in comfortably, while lighter parts are supported. The gel foam padding of the mattress creates a pleasant counterpressure and the body weight is evenly distributed across the surface. This is particularly pleasant for side sleepers. If you get cold quickly at night, you will also like the high heat retention. These mattresses are also suitable for allergy sufferers and people with back pain. Back sleepers also lie well on cold foam mattresses.
Comfort foam core mattress
Mattresses with comfort foam are point-elastic and air-permeable. Their open-pored and irregular structure allows them to regulate temperature well. The pressure when lying down is evenly distributed over the entire surface and the spine is ergonomically supported and relieved in its natural and slightly curved shape. In addition, this mattress has a high resilience. This means that it quickly returns to its shape when you change your lying position. A comfort foam mattress is a good choice for restless sleepers, for side sleepers and for light people.
Pocket spring mattress
Pocket spring mattresses have individual pockets inside them, into which the springs are incorporated, which give way at certain points when they are put under pressure. The more springs are incorporated into the core, the more adaptable the mattress is. Lying zones in the shoulder, pelvis and leg area make them even more comfortable. Pocket spring mattresses are very breathable and absorb moisture, then release it directly back into the environment. This gives you a pleasant sleeping climate. This is practical if you sweat quickly. Due to the firm construction, this type of mattress is particularly popular with stomach sleepers.
Find the firmness that suits you and your sleeping position
Mattresses with gel foam are available in different degrees of firmness. The degree of firmness you should choose depends on your body weight and your sleeping preferences. Mattresses are divided into five degrees of firmness: the higher the degree of firmness, the harder the mattress.
- H1 (0 to 65 kg): soft
- H2 (60 to 80 kg): medium hard
- H3 (81 to 100 kg): hard
- H4 (101 to 120 kg): very hard
- H5 (121 to 160 kg): ultra hard
When lying down, the spine should have its natural shape, roughly an S-shape. With the right mattress, you can support your body depending on the position you are lying in and prevent poor posture. That’s why it’s important that the mattress is neither too hard nor too soft .
Tip: Our mattress advice will help you choose the degree of firmness and help you find the mattress that suits your sleeping habits.
When and for whom are gel foam mattresses suitable?
Gel foam mattresses are ideal for sleepers who want to lie comfortably but at the same time want good support for their body. It is also worth purchasing a gel foam mattress in the following cases:
- For orthopedic problems: Gel foam mattresses can provide support in addition to the appropriate treatment for back, neck and joint pain.
- In case of circulatory disorders: By minimizing pressure points, blood circulation in the tissue is supported.
- For allergies: A gel foam mattress is recommended for allergy sufferers, as moisture is easily drained from the mattress. This prevents dust mites.
- If you sweat a lot: Gel foam mattresses regulate temperature. This means you won’t get too warm on them so quickly.
The right slatted frame: Which one suits your mattress?
A mattress can only achieve its full effect when used with the right slatted frame. Find out here which slatted frame is suitable for which mattress.
- Gel foam mattresses with cold foam or comfort foam cores are flexible and adapt effortlessly to the slatted frame, so you can choose between a rigid or an adjustable slatted frame.
- If your gel foam mattress has several lying zones, we recommend a movable slatted frame so that the positive properties of the gel foam mattress can develop properly.
- If you are not sure whether you want to stick with this mattress, choose a rigid slatted frame. It is universally applicable and you can combine it with all mattresses.
Care and cleaning of gel foam mattresses
Gel foam mattresses last longer if you take good care of them. You can also improve your sleep with proper care and cleaning. Here are a few tips.
- A topper protects the mattress from sweat, skin flakes, moisture and hair. The mattress protector is also easy to clean or replace.
- Attach the mattress topper to the edges of the mattress with elastic bands. This way nothing can slip.
- You can protect the underside of the mattress with a mattress protector. Place it between the slatted frame and the mattress so that the mattress does not slip.
- You can simply wash mattress protectors and toppers in the washing machine. If the washing machine is too small, hand washing is also sufficient.
- It is best to wash the covers individually to ensure they are nice and clean.
- The topper can be washed every two months.
Conclusion: Gel foam mattresses adapt to your lying position
You can sleep and lie well on a gel foam mattress because it sinks into the heavier parts of the body and supports the natural S-shape of your spine. Depending on your lying position, you should choose the right gel foam mattress for you.
- Cold foam mattresses are a good choice for back sleepers and people with back pain. Side sleepers can also sleep well on them.
- Comfort foam core mattresses are particularly suitable for side sleepers and very light people . This variant is also recommended for restless sleepers.
- Stomach sleepers lie comfortably on pocket spring mattresses without a hollow back due to the firm construction.