Uncovering The Myth: #3 – The Fancier The Name, The Better The Mattress

A good rule of thumb I use is that the larger the aggrandizement and the longer the descriptor for a foam layer used within a mattress (“Super-Deluxe Polymeric and Gel Thermally Conductive 10x Unobtanium Foam), the lower the density/quality/durability of the material.

Hey, I know marketers need to eat just like the rest us, but let’s at least include densities so we can have an idea as to the durability of the foam. And, if there is indeed something unique within a new foam offering, claims shouldn’t be propped up by comparing the foam to a piece of navel lint.

It’s important as an RSA (Retail Sales Associate) to become educated about the common foam densities for better quality polyurethane foams and memory foam, and learning that density and the hardness of polyurethane foam aren’t necessarily related (as it tends to be with latex). This comes into play not only for showing a quality product to your customers, but also for managing their expectations of comfort and durability. It’s also important knowledge to have when recommending the appropriate materials to people of all sizes, especially larger individuals, as you want to make sure that your suggestions serve your clients well.

Dihydrogen monoxide sounds pretty fancy, but in the end it’s just water.

This article appears in Sleep Geek.