What are you, polyurethane foam and what do you look like?
Of course, I’m not going to go into the complex chemical composition, so that you can read about the composition on Wikipedia, I’ll only say that polyurethane foam mainly consists of products from the petrochemical industry. It comes in two types, hard and elastic. We are interested in elastic polyurethane foam (or foam rubber), which is what modern mattresses in the economy segment are made from.
Cross-section of a polyurethane foam mattress.
Today, a polyurethane foam mattress is a good budget option! Such mattresses are in great demand in the textile industry. Of course, the demand appeared for a reason: the price-quality ratio of products is at a very high level. People use them in various forms: some every day on their bed, some at the dacha, some only for guests. In principle, they cope with their task with dignity everywhere.
Advantages and disadvantages of foam mattresses
Yes, polyurethane foam mattresses have their advantages:
- Affordable price - due to this they have become widespread;
- Easy to transport - they can be twisted, crushed, bent;
- Easy to clean.
But any positive properties are easily canceled out by disadvantages:
- Foam mattresses are harmful to the spine;
- Foam rubber releases harmful substances into the air (according to some experts).
Sleeping on polyurethane foam mattresses is not recommended for either children or adults. If you happen to purchase a children's foam mattress, you can safely throw it in the trash. It does not provide sufficient support to the spine, which will lead to numerous problems in the future . Children under two years of age are recommended to sleep on firmer foundations, such as coconut mattresses, so it is highly undesirable to use a polyurethane foam mattress, even if it is reinforced with other materials to provide rigidity.
Foam mattresses are also harmful due to their chemical properties. Many experts argue that the concentration of harmful substances in the air near the surface of the mattress is too high, so it is not recommended for either children or adults to sleep on them. If you want to give your spine and body health and longevity, choose mattresses made from safer materials, such as coconut fiber.
Positive properties
Let us present the main list of positive properties of polyurethane foam mattresses:
- Low cost is undoubtedly one of the main advantages of this product, allowing people of any income to purchase a polyurethane foam mattress. This cost is justified by the ease of manufacture and low cost of raw materials. The average bill for a mattress can vary from 2 to 10 thousand rubles.
- High elasticity and resilience. From the name “elastic polyurethane foam” it is clear that the filler has high elastic properties and restores its shape during operation for quite a long time, including after vacuuming.
- Breathability. Polyurethane foam is a material that has air cavities. Thanks to this structure, it perfectly allows air to pass through and allows your body to breathe.
- Lightweight and easy to transport. The material is very light and “airy”; undoubtedly, this is a positive aspect, since the mattress can be easily transported from one place to another, taken to the country, transferred from the bed to the floor for guests, or vacuum-packed.
- Orthopedic properties. Of course, polyurethane foam does not provide complete separation of hardness zones and does not have a super orthopedic effect, however, a polyurethane foam mattress does not cause a hammock effect and helps support the spine during sleep. By placing such a mattress on a hard surface, you are guaranteed a comfortable sleep. Thin polyurethane foam mattresses are often used as sofa toppers to create additional comfort for the sleeping area.
- Elastic bands around the edges. Not all mattresses have such an addition, but there are also mattresses with elastic bands. This pleasant little detail helps to firmly fix the product, preventing it from moving out.
- The removable cover greatly facilitates the care of the product.
How to do it yourself?
Everyone needs a new mattress from time to time. And many people can do it themselves. This could be an option for the dacha. And it happens that the fabric on the mattress is still good, but the foam has already sagged.
You will need:
- Foam rubber.
- Mattress cover material.
- Felt.
- Glue for foam rubber.
If the spring blocks are in good condition, then it is enough to replace only the pieces of foam rubber with new parts.
Work algorithm:
- Lay foam rubber on the floor and cover it with felt.
- Glue pieces of foam rubber to the sides to hide the springs.
- On top, when the glue dries, put felt, and then foam rubber.
- The final step is to insert the foam into the case.
If you need a new mattress without springs, you first need to decide on its size. Purchase foam rubber with the required parameters. Then sew a mattress cover. When cutting, take seam allowances into account. All that remains is to place the polyurethane foam in the case.
Video of a DIY foam mattress:
Flaws
- Fear of sun rays. Protect the mattress filling (with a removable cover) from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Such an effect can negatively affect the structure of the filler.
- As for the harm of polyurethane foam on the human body, namely the vapors that allegedly can be released during the operation of such mattresses, this topic deserves special attention. However, I don’t want to indulge in demagoguery in vain, especially since these facts have not been officially confirmed. My personal opinion is that this information is created by competitors who want to promote their brands. Why do I think this? It's simple. Any self-respecting company that produces polyurethane foam mattresses issues certificates of conformity, and I am inclined to believe them, so that there is no other official information.
Dreamline polyurethane foam mattresses
Dreamline Spread-10
- Spring block:
springless - Filler:
polyurethane foam - Memory effect:
no - Winter-summer effect:
no - Cover material:
cotton - Height:
11 cm - Orthopedic:
yes - Rating:
5.0
Advantages:
- affordable price
- qualitative
- the seams are even
- no smell
- soft
- good filler
Flaws:
- No
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Dreamline Relax Massage S2000
- Spring block:
independent springs - Filler:
polyurethane foam - Number of springs per place:
2000 - Memory effect:
no - Winter-summer effect:
no - Case material:
velor - Weight per seat:
150 kg - Height:
28 cm - Orthopedic:
yes - Rating:
5.0
Advantages:
- good quality
- optimal price
- production to any size
Flaws:
- No
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Dreamline Dream 3 S1000
- Spring block:
independent springs - Filler:
polyurethane foam - Number of springs per place:
1000 - Memory effect:
no - Winter-summer effect:
no - Cover material:
jacquard - Weight per seat:
130 kg - Height:
22 cm - Orthopedic:
yes - Rating:
5.0
Advantages:
- full compliance with the specified characteristics
- very comfortable
- no odors
- the material is pleasant to the touch
Flaws:
- No
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Hardness, density and dimensions of polyurethane foam mattresses.
It is generally accepted that there are five types of mattress firmness: hard, moderately hard, medium, moderately soft and soft. PU foam mattresses are no exception and can have any hardness. Take this feature into account when choosing a mattress and buy a product for yourself. Another key indicator of polyurethane foam mattresses is density. The higher the density, the higher quality and more expensive the product. Manufacturers, as a rule, do not write a density indicator, but instead indicate the maximum weight per bed. Pay attention to this and project it onto your data. Know that a properly selected mattress will last much longer. Below is a table of the distribution of mattress hardness depending on your height and weight parameters; you can be guided by these indicators when choosing a mattress of optimal hardness:
Dependence of mattress hardness on weight and height
Now about the sizes.
The abundance of sizes is undoubtedly a plus that can be added to the collection of these products. The main ones are considered to be the following: 60x120 (standard crib), 70x200, 80x200, 90x200, 120x200, 140x200, 160x200, 180x200 and 200x200 centimeters, where the first parameter is the width and the second is the length. Also pay attention to the thickness (otherwise called height or side). The thickness is usually from 5 to 20 cm.
All the sizes mentioned above can be divided into three main categories that should be followed:
- Single - 70x200, 80x200 and 90x200 cm;
- One-and-a-half-bed - 120x200 cm;
- Double - 140x200, 160x200, 180x200, 200x200 cm.
Before buying a mattress, be sure to try on your sleeping place to avoid unpleasant situations. Consider what comfortable space is optimal for you. It’s not for nothing that they say: “Measure 7 times, buy one.”
Polyurethane foam mattresses Konkord
Konkord Classic Kids
- Spring block:
dependent springs (bonnell) - Filler:
polyurethane foam - Number of springs per place:
256 - Memory effect:
no - Winter-summer effect:
no - Cover material:
calico - Weight per seat:
60 kg - Height:
19 cm - Rating:
5.0
Advantages:
- quality materials
- price
- guarantee
- doesn't creak
- keeps its shape
- sleep comfortably
Flaws:
- No
60×120
60×140
60×160
60×170
70×140
70×160
70×186
70×190
70×200
80×160
80×180
80×186
80×190
80×195
80×200
90×186
90×190
90×195
90×200
Concord DreamRise Duo Lux Massage
- Spring block:
independent springs - Filler:
polyurethane foam - Memory effect:
no - Winter-summer effect:
no - Cover material:
jacquard - Weight per seat:
100 kg - Height:
18 cm - Rating:
5.0
Advantages:
- good back support
- comfortable
- independent spring block
- high quality product
- affordable price
Flaws:
- new mattress has a slight chemical smell
- the sheet slips
80×190
80×195
80×200
90×190
90×195
90×200
120×190
120×195
120×200
140×190
140×195
140×200
160×190
160×195
160×200
180×190
180×195
180×200
200×200
Konkord Classic Massage
- Spring block:
dependent springs (bonnell) - Filler:
polyurethane foam - Number of springs per place:
256 - Memory effect:
no - Winter-summer effect:
no - Cover material:
jacquard - Weight per seat:
80 kg - Height:
18 cm - Rating:
5.0
Advantages:
- convenience
- the price corresponds to the quality
- micromassage
- true to size
- hypoallergenic
Flaws:
- no memory effect
80×190
80×195
80×200
90×190
90×195
90×200
120×190
120×195
120×200
140×190
140×195
140×200
160×190
160×195
160×200
180×190
180×195
180×200
200×200
Advantages
- Such mattresses can withstand heavy loads and are suitable for heavy people. The higher the density of the filler, the greater its capabilities
- Availability. Polyurethane foam is much cheaper than other fillers, so mattresses with it are available to everyone.
- Orthopedic properties. Due to the ability to adapt to the shape of the sleeper’s body, mattresses are recommended for those who have impaired spinal function.
- Breathability. Thanks to its porous structure, a polyurethane foam mattress is well ventilated.
- Ease of transportation. Springless mattresses with such filling can be rolled up.
- Suitable for partners of different weights.
- Resistant to deformation and does not sag over time.
Top 10 mattresses
"Askona Basic High"
A mattress based on orthopedic elastic foam “Orto Foam” is one of the improved varieties of polyurethane foam. The model has high rigidity and can withstand heavy loads of up to 110 kg per bed. Conveniently, the mattress can be rolled up for ease of storage and transportation; its weight is about 9 kg. The cover in this model is made of jacquard, which is resistant to friction and can withstand washing well.
Advantages: withstands heavy loads, orthopedic effect, can be twisted, light weight.
Disadvantages: high rigidity is not for everyone.
"Askona Comfort Plus"
Mattress of medium hardness based on a block of independent springs. It uses 1 layer of polyurethane foam; for greater strength, the box is made from it. The model can withstand loads of up to 110 kg.
Advantages: block of independent springs, orthopedic effect, can withstand heavy loads.
Disadvantages: heavy, relatively expensive.
"Consul Philo"
Mattress based on high density polyurethane foam. It has a medium level of hardness, making it suitable for most users. Withstands loads up to 120 kg. If necessary, it can be rolled up for storage or transportation. The standard cover does not have handles or a zipper and is not washable, dry clean only.
Advantages: withstands heavy loads, medium hardness, can be twisted.
Disadvantages: the cover is not removable.
"Consul Elysium"
Mattress with a modern block of independent springs and 2 layers of polyurethane foam. It is double-sided - has medium and low rigidity. This allows you to change the sleeping conditions by simply turning the mattress over. This model can withstand loads of up to 120 kg. You can transport or store the mattress rolled up. The cover is not removable and can only be dry cleaned.
Advantages: double-sided, different rigidity of the sides, orthopedic effect, withstands heavy loads, can be twisted.
Disadvantages: the cover is not removable and cannot be washed.
"Vegas Hit 4"
A springless mattress based on a block of highly elastic foam. It has 7 zones of rigidity and a relief surface, which provides a micro-massage effect, relaxes muscles, and helps to quickly restore strength. This model is optimal for all adults over 18 years of age. Both sides have a medium degree of hardness. The mattress is designed for a load of up to 120-130 kg per bed. It is convenient that the cover can be removed and washed.
Advantages: 7-zone filler, massage effect, medium hardness suitable for many, can withstand heavy loads, the cover can be removed and washed.
Disadvantages: both sides have the same stiffness.
"Relax Eco 1"
A springless mattress with a polyurethane foam block 14 cm high. It has low rigidity and is designed for a load of up to 90 kg per bed. The cover in this model is additionally impregnated with “Anti Fire” solution, which prevents the fabric from burning.
Advantages: inexpensive, the case does not catch fire.
Disadvantages: weight limit for the sleeper, low rigidity.
"Dreamline Classic Roll Slim"
A mattress with medium hardness on both sides, based on a block of polyurethane foam. This model is optimal for periodic use, as it is designed for a service life of up to 4 years. Its orthopedic effect is low, so for those who have back problems, this mattress is not the best solution. The maximum load it can withstand is 100 kg. The mattress can be rolled up for easy transportation and storage. The cover is made of synthetic jacquard and is not removable.
Advantages: medium hardness is suitable for many, can withstand heavy loads, can be rolled, inexpensive.
Disadvantages: not very long service life, low orthopedic effect, the cover is not removable.
"Dreamline Classic"
A model with a block of independent springs, which uses 2 layers of high-strength polyurethane foam. Both sides have below average rigidity, and the orthopedic effect is low. This mattress can withstand a load of up to 90 kg per bed. Has a cover made of synthetic jacquard. Expected service life is 4 years.
Advantages: medium firmness is suitable for many.
Disadvantages: low orthopedic effect, weight limit for the sleeper, short service life.
"Dreamline Eco Foam TFK"
Mattress with independent spring block and 2 layers of polyurethane foam. The orthopedic effect in this model is not too high, the rigidity is low. The maximum load on a sleeping place is 90 kg, the permissible difference between partners is 25 kg. Please note that the cover cannot be removed and washed.
Advantages: block of independent springs.
Disadvantages: no orthopedic effect, weight limit for the sleeper, the cover is not removable, high cost.
Raiton polyurethane foam mattresses
Raiton Baby Sweet
- Spring block:
springless - Filler:
polyurethane foam - Memory effect:
no - Winter-summer effect:
no - Cover material:
calico - Weight per seat:
90 kg - Height:
9 cm - Orthopedic:
yes - Rating:
5.0
Advantages:
- the price corresponds to the quality
- weight
- dimensions
- hard
- comfortable
- colorful drawing
Flaws:
- after a while it wrinkled and went into lumps
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Busy work, lack of time for walks and exercise lead to the accumulation of fatigue. The body rests only in sleep. You can achieve good rest by carefully equipping your sleeping area. A polyurethane foam mattress is ideal for this.
