Memory Foam Buyer's Guide
An introduction to the world of memory foam...
Page 4
 

Beware of Low Quality Foam
As was discussed above, memory foam is a high-end product. As memory foam has gained popularity in the last few years, it is no surprise that there has been an explosion of cheap memory foam products on the market. There’s nothing wrong with looking for a bargain, but there are several risks associated with these low-quality imitators. The best choice is usually to buy American made memory foam. It’s good investment, both for you and our nation.

Risk: Lots of low quality foam is made overseas in Asian factories that have much less stringent regulations for consumer protection. Some of these manufacturers use dangerous chemicals like formaldehyde in the manufacturing process which can cause allergic reactions and/or unpleasant smells.

How To Avoid It: Buy from a reputable American manufacturer that does not use dangerous chemicals to produce their foam.

Risk: Many of these manufacturers produce foam in what are essentially large cookie sheets. Liquid foam is poured in and allowed to settle as it cures. This produces inconsistencies in density, as gravity acts on the foam, drawing more material to the bottom. The result is foam with unpredictable densities; foam that is labeled as having a “4 pound density” may really only be 3 lbs. There are even some high-priced “mall brands” that still use this outdated process.

How To Avoid It: Buy from a manufacturer using more advanced processes. A few manufacturers, like Sleep Aid, are using a more modern production technique called vacuum injection. Liquid foam is injected into a sealed vacuum chamber, counteracting the effects of gravity, and thereby ensuring a consistent density of foam. This process also greatly reduces the fumes and “off-gassing” associated with production, and that’s good for our environment.

Risk: Cheap foam breaks down rapidly, sometimes flaking and crumbling before it even leaves the shelf.  This is simply a result of low-quality materials and low-tech production techniques.

How To Avoid It: Buy from a reputable company! High quality foam will last upwards of ten or twenty years. Low quality foam can break down in a matter of weeks. It’s worth paying a little more to ensure that you receive a durable, high-quality product.
 

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