Springless orthopedic mattresses are gradually conquering the market for sleep products; they are recommended by orthopedists as the highest quality and most comfortable from a medical point of view. Such products support the spine in the correct position, are elastic, durable, perfectly breathable, and do not accumulate dust. Springless mattresses are most often based on one of two materials, polyurethane foam or latex, which, despite similar parameters, are still significantly different from each other.
Structure
The PPU mattress consists of foamed plastic with small cells containing polyurethane inside.
New production technology allows modern mattresses to be more elastic, resilient, and at the same time not cause allergic reactions. Thanks to these properties, the orthopedic effect is achieved. The polyurethane foam mattress does not deform under the influence of human weight, it does not sag and remains stable. Such models, most often, have anatomical memory properties, which allows them to distribute the load evenly over the entire area of the mattress, due to which the sleeper’s muscles relax. This is followed by a full, healthy sleep.
If there is a need to transport a PU foam mattress, it can easily be rolled up and placed, for example, in a car.
Natural and artificial: what is the difference
Natural latex is made from the milky sap of rubber trees, mainly Hevea brasiliensis. It is on its basis that natural fillers for mattresses are produced.
To make one mattress, a lot of material is required - about 200 liters of juice.
It was due to the high demand for latex and the shortage of natural raw materials that a type of latex was developed - artificial latex, also known as polyurethane foam (PUF). Artificial material is used to make mattresses, which are also called latex without any reservations.
Comfort Line mattress made of polyurethane foam with independent springs. Double-sided mattress with latex and coconut, reinforced with an independent spring block.
Kinds
Anti-bedsore
How to choose an anti-decubitus mattress? Modern medical mattresses have different structures and degrees of hardness. The choice of this or that product is absolutely individual. The mattress can have three levels of hardness - low, medium and high. Such products are characterized by a tubular or cellular structure.
Models with a cellular structure are suitable for patients who spend most of their time in bed. An important element of such a mattress is the compressor, which regulates the air pressure in the cells, which ensures a comfortable sleep for the patient. The product performs the function of a light massage, which helps prevent the formation of bedsores. In addition, it can relieve swelling and pain that occurs in bedridden patients.
Askona springless mattresses of this type are very popular on the market.
A tubular PU foam mattress is a product that has balloon compartments into which air is alternately supplied. This allows you to improve the effectiveness of the massage. This model promotes intensive resumption of blood circulation and makes sleep more comfortable for the patient.
Polyurethane foam mattresses 10 cm
Such products have medium rigidity and ensure correct anatomical position of the body during sleep. Models with a thickness of 10 cm are made using ultrastep technology, thanks to which the product is perfectly washable; it does not have a thread stitch, as it is lined with a quilted cover. The mattress provides softness, hygiene, environmental friendliness, breathability and durability. The height of bed mattresses is described here. Also read what is the standard mattress height.
Models for children
Which mattress to choose for a child? For newborns and children under 3 years of age, a high-hardness polyurethane mattress will be an excellent alternative to a spring or old foam mattress. It ensures the correct position of the baby's spine during rest. Polyurethane mattresses are made from high-quality materials, so they do not harm the baby’s health and do not cause allergies. They are not too soft, but not too hard and have fairly good ventilation.
Product density
An important characteristic of polyurethane foam filler is density. The higher the density, the harder the mattress. Varieties of filler according to this property are traditionally divided into 3 types:
- cheap soft models are designed for lightweight people;
- the mid-price segment is represented by medium-hard products that provide a load capacity of up to 110 kg;
- more expensive models have moderate and high rigidity. This category also includes spring-based products that can withstand the weight of a sleeper up to 140 kg.
Main manufacturers
- “Yomna” produced by the Swedish company IKEA, which has been on the production market for more than 60 years. This product has medium hardness and a height of 10 cm. This is a fairly budget model, which is often used as an additional layer on old sofas or beds. judging by the reviews, buyers appreciate, first of all, its dense filling and the presence of a removable cover, which allows it to be washed;
- "Malfors" produced by IKEA. The product is made of dense polyurethane, there are two types - hard and medium hardness, with a height of 12 cm. According to reviews, buyers note the affordable price of the product, the elasticity of the mattress, as well as the presence of a cover with a zipper;
- "Moshult" produced by IKEA. This model is made of elastic polyurethane, has a height of 10 cm, and ensures the correct position of the spine during sleep. Buyers note an acceptable price for a quality product, as well as a 90-day guarantee;
- "Malvik" made by IKEA. The product is white, medium hard, has a removable cover, height 14 cm, provides optimal support for the spine. Judging by the reviews, buyers note the quality of the material, the presence of a removable cover, and easy transportation, since the mattress can be rolled up;
- Ivanovo mattresses (economy). The products are made of high-quality polyurethane and have an orthopedic effect. The height of the mattresses is 6 cm, 10 cm and 18 cm. The main advantages of the products that buyers note are the lightness of the mattress and its low cost.
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Characteristics
Each product is endowed with certain characteristics, assessing which we decide on the advisability of purchasing it.
So, when choosing a polyurethane foam mattress, pay attention to: . Rigidity
As we said, the level of rigidity of a foam rubber product depends on the density.
Rigidity. As we said, the level of rigidity of a foam rubber product depends on the density.
- soft polyurethane foam has a density of up to 18 kg/m3. It cannot be used in the production of mattresses;
- standard hardness (density 22-25 kg/m3), sometimes marked ST. This polyurethane foam is used in the production of children's mattresses or cheap mattresses for adults;
- increased density 28-30 kg/m3 (EL marking). Dense, well-supporting foam. On average, the service life of a mattress made from such polyurethane foam is 5-6 years;
- dense, having an indicator of 35-40 kg/m3. The maximum load on this mattress is 90 kg. And the product will last up to 10 years;
- artificial latex having the highest density (from 45 kg/m3 and above) is designated HR or VE. This type of polyurethane foam is used only in luxury and expensive furniture and mattresses, it has remarkable orthopedic properties, and will last up to 15 years.
Dimensions. The dimensions of mattresses made of polyurethane foam can be completely different; stores offer a wide range of products, among which there is a crib for newborns, and for older children, and for single, single, and double beds. When choosing a mattress, it is necessary to take into account the person’s height; optimally, if the product has a length equal to the person’s height + 25 cm.
Mattresses for non-standard beds are also often made at the request of the customer. The thickness of the mattress can also be very different (from 50mm and above), of course, sleeping on tall products is more comfortable and healthier.
Models. Every manufacturer has a range of polyurethane foam mattresses. Depending on your preferences regarding the level of rigidity, the presence or absence of a spring block, the number of layers, sizes, budget, you can easily choose the right model. But still, preference should be given to trusted manufacturers, and also read reviews on the Internet.
Different effect. A high-density polyurethane foam mattress, or otherwise called artificial latex, has an orthopedic effect. Memory foam mattresses (Memoriform, Memorix, Memory Foam) have also become popular in recent years. Under the influence of heat from the human body, this material changes its shape, adapts to the anatomical curves of its owner’s body, providing a comfortable feeling and benefits for posture. A memory foam mattress has the unique ability to relatively quickly restore its original shape.
Color solutions. Often, polyurethane foam filler has different colors; for this, during the production of polyurethane foam blocks, dyes of the required color are added. The upholstery of the mattress can also be made in different shades and from different materials, as they say, to suit every taste of the buyer.
Vacuum mattresses in rolls are very convenient from the point of view of transportation and storage in retail outlets. Such products are tightly rolled into a roll and do not take up much space. After opening the package, the mattress is laid out on a flat horizontal surface and after a couple of hours you can already use it. Re-rolling the mattress is not permitted. It should also be taken into account that some mattress models should not be rolled for more than a certain amount of time. Thus, the Flex Standard mattress from Ormatek cannot be stored rolled up for more than 180 days from the date of manufacture.
Medical indications. Most of us, those who do not have spinal health problems, are recommended to sleep on medium-hard mattresses. The vast majority of polyurethane foam products have just this level of rigidity. Those who have been diagnosed by an orthopedic doctor must follow his recommendations regarding the level of rigidity.
Mattresses made of polyurethane foam are quite popular due to their affordable price and good characteristics. However, you should not purchase the cheapest models from unknown manufacturers, so as not to be disappointed in your purchase. After all, a bad, low-quality mattress can harm your health.
Comparison with mattresses made from other materials
Spring and polyurethane foam
Regular spring mattresses are practically unsuitable for sleeping due to their design. The springs inside the mattress are interconnected in such a way that during sleep, under the weight of the body, the product resembles a hammock. Not only the springs on which a person sleeps are subject to compression, but also the neighboring ones. There is no point in talking about any orthopedic effect here. The product can only approximately replicate the outline of the human body.
The polyurethane foam mattress perfectly retains its shape, follows the contours of a person, has medium hardness, but at the same time remains soft and elastic. In terms of durability, spring models are not inferior to polyurethane ones. Both options can be used for a long time. Spring mattresses have a fairly affordable price, which corresponds to the quality; PU foam products are slightly higher in the price category, which also affects the quality.
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Latex and polyurethane foam
Latex is a natural material that has many positive properties necessary for a high-quality orthopedic mattress. The advantages of latex include breathability, hypoallergenicity, moisture resistance, and a low likelihood of the spread of fungi, mites and bacteria. They hold their shape perfectly, clearly following the contours of a sleeping person’s body.
Polyurethane mattresses are almost as good in properties as latex ones; the former, unfortunately, are not so resistant to moisture, which leads to the growth of bacteria inside the product. But this can be avoided if you use the mattress according to the instructions.
As for the price, latex models are much more expensive than their counterparts.
Springs - good or bad?
When trying to figure out which mattress is better: polyurethane foam or latex, you can’t help but compare them with other popular models. Spring products today are as popular as everyone else. They have their own characteristics: pros and cons, which are important to know when choosing a suitable option for a sleeping place.
To begin with, it is worth saying that these mattresses differ in structure. Springs can be of two types. Based on a single block. In the manufacture of this type of product, a double-cone spring is used. Number of turns 4 or 5. Consist of individual cylindrical springs. Each of them is in a special bag, which are then sewn together. The more there are, the higher the elasticity and rigidity indicators. If springs of different stiffness are used, the orthopedic effect increases significantly. Thanks to this, a perfectly flat surface without “waves” appears.
The advantage of this model is that it has a layer filter. It makes the mattress safe and comfortable. There is thick upholstery. The best is jacquard fabric.
When trying to determine which mattress is better, choosing one of three options, preference should be given to a latex product, for example, an option such as Promtex-Orient Biba Latex Bicocos 6.
If there are no sufficient funds, then spring specimens can become quite good. Their cost is much lower than latex mattresses. And polyurethane foam models should be chosen by those who want to save a lot and are not afraid of the hassle of caring for them.
Prices
Prices for polyurethane mattresses start from 1,700 rubles, this applies to budget models. A higher-quality mattress with a guarantee will cost, accordingly, more – from 4,000 rubles. Mattresses made of hard polyurethane can be purchased for up to 10,000 rubles, and products with memory effect will cost the buyer 23-25 thousand rubles. Prices for special anti-decubitus mattresses vary from 3,000 rubles to 38,000 rubles, depending on the characteristics of the mattress and its filling.
Mattresses made of polyurethane have a soft material that is pleasant to the touch. They are able to withstand high pressure, so they are perfect for people who are overweight to relax. It is believed that the products do not cause harm. PU foam products are characterized by orthopedic properties, which allows you to completely relax and forget about back pain or body aches. In addition, such mattresses have a fairly reasonable price, which will not break your pocket.
Here you can read about thin mattresses for a sofa. Here you will find more information about bed mattress sizes. You might also be interested in a newborn bathing mattress.
Which is better in the end?
It’s quite easy to decide which is better latex or polyurethane foam, especially if you take into account the operating conditions of the product:
- For an extra bed or irregular sleep, a polyurethane foam model is quite suitable, since it is convenient to roll up for storage and easy to transport, for example, to the country.
- For rehabilitation after injuries and illnesses, memory foam mattresses are most suitable. Ecofoam foam is an ideal material for bedridden patients, patients with joint diseases or poor circulation. It adapts to the shape of the person lying down and exerts absolutely no pressure, providing maximum comfort.
- For the main sleeping area, a latex mattress is most suitable. In addition to providing a comfortable sleep, it is distinguished by its environmental friendliness, ease of maintenance and durability, due to which the high cost of the product easily pays off.
Advantages and disadvantages
PPU, which is the basis for the mattress, gives this product many properties. Among them there are both positive qualities and some disadvantages.
Among the advantages of this material, elasticity and elasticity should be noted. Thanks to these qualities, good support for the musculoskeletal system is created.
The reasonable price of polyurethane foam is a significant advantage. Especially when you have to choose between models with similar prices. A mattress with a bonell spring block costs about the same as a mattress with polyurethane foam, but the benefits of a product with polyurethane foam are much greater. The bonell dependent spring block is not able to provide proper support to the spine, especially since this type has no orthopedic properties. And in mattresses with modern PU foam they are pronounced. Moreover, a polyurethane foam mattress, which is not prone to deformation, is recommended for use by people with various musculoskeletal disorders.
A positive quality of this mattress is its viscosity.
Thanks to it, polyurethane foam is able to withstand significant pressure. Therefore, people with a large weight can sleep on such mattresses without fear - there will be no dents or creases on it. Viscosity is precisely the property due to which the joint recreation of couples with different weight indicators will not be overshadowed. The pressure that a heavy partner exerts on the surface does not affect the lighter partner; there is no hammock effect. In addition, due to its viscosity, a mattress made from polyurethane foam does not sag for a long time.
Polyurethane foam is a polymer with a cellular structure and therefore has good air permeability. Air permeability gives products with PU foam excellent hygienic properties. And, of course, an important advantage of a polyurethane foam mattress is its good transportability. Such mattresses are rolled into a roll for convenience, because they are not afraid of deformation and twisting.
Numerous advantages do not cancel out some of the disadvantages inherent in mattresses with PU foam. An advantage such as price can turn into a significant disadvantage. This happens when the desire to reduce the price of a product reaches its limit. For very cheap models, quality noticeably suffers and service life is significantly reduced. At best, such a mattress will last 3-4 years.
The porosity of polyurethane foam promotes the absorption of odors, liquids and fumes, and cleaning such products at home is impossible. A polyurethane foam mattress can only be processed in a specialized manner. The smell emanating from the new mattress brings some inconvenience, but it disappears after a few days.
