When it comes to memory foam, thickness matters. Get it right and it could transform your sleep for good.
Mattresses come in all different sizes and thicknesses, which is great for catering to a range of different sleeping needs, but not so great when trying to decide which one is best for you.
To simplify your mattress buying process, we’ve created a mattress thickness guide to help you find the ideal mattress thickness for you.
How Thick is the Average Mattress?
This is a common question that is hard to answer. As the different types of mattresses expand to help meet the requirements of different sleepers, what constitutes ‘the average mattress’ is becoming harder to pinpoint.
Our memory foam mattresses come in different thickness layers of 3cm up to 10cm. However, the thickness of a mattress includes all of the layers underneath.
What’s the Difference Between Thickness and Density?
There is often some confusion around the difference between mattress thickness and density.
While thickness refers to the height of your mattress, memory foam density refers to the mattress weight and volume. Density is measured in kg/m3.
Generally speaking, the higher the memory foam density, the better the quality. Low-density memory foam feels softer and is less supportive, while high-density foam feels firmer and is more durable.
When buying a mattress, the trick is to find the right balance between your sleeping preferences and budget.
Are Thicker Mattresses More Comfortable?
Mattress thickness doesn’t necessarily equate to comfort. It’s more about the type of mattress you choose and the different layers of memory foam construction.
Comfort is subjective and largely dependent on your individual preferences and sleeping style.
For example, someone who suffers from back pain may find a thicker mattress more comfortable than other types of sleepers.
How Thick Should a Mattress Be?
The ideal mattress thickness for you depends on a number of factors;
Your Body Weight
Your weight is a big factor in identifying the right mattress thickness for you. To put it simply, the more you weigh, the thicker the mattress you’ll need for optimum support.
Here’s a rough guide on the thickness needed for different body weights;
- 225lb and below- 3 - 5cm memory foam
- 275lb and below - 7- 8cm memory foam
- 275lb and above - 10cm memory foam
However, this also depends on your sleeping preferences.
Your Sleeping Style
Your favoured sleeping position should play a large part in your decision-making process.
Back Sleepers
Back sleepers are likely to prefer a medium-firm mattress with fewer thickness layers. Choose a memory foam mattress thickness of around 3-5cm for optimum support.
A hybrid mattress that combines the support and breathability of pocket spring with a comfort layer of memory foam on top is another good option for back sleepers. However, this extra layer will add to the overall height.
Front Sleepers
Sleeping on your front can put extra strain on your lower back. A firm mattress can help to maintain your natural spine alignment. Opt for a memory foam layer of 5-7cm.
Side Sleepers
Sleeping on your side can put pressure on shoulders and hips. To remedy this, an extra thick mattress with layers of memory foam can provide cushioning around pressure points. A memory foam layer of 7cm or above should work well for side sleepers.
Your Health and Mobility
If you suffer from back pain or other mobility issues, it’s best to opt for a mattress that allows you to sit comfortably on the bed with your feet on the ground.
Back pain sufferers may need a firmer mattress with fewer layers of cushioning, while those with joint pain would sleep better with extra comfort layers.
Your Mattress Height Preference
Naturally, the thicker you go, the higher your bed is going to be from the ground. Once you’ve added a bed frame, duvet, bedspread and pillows it’s going to get even taller.
This can add an element of luxury to your sleeping space, however, in smaller bedrooms, a very high bed may look out of place and overwhelm the room.
If you struggle getting in and out of bed or have mobility issues, the extra height could pose an issue.
What's the Difference in Mattress Thickness?
While you may see memory foam mattresses coming in anything from 14 inches thick to 20 inches, this is unlikely to consist of memory foam alone. Mattresses are made up of layers of different materials. For example, a hybrid mattress might contain a pocket spring, latex foam or base foam with a memory foam top layer.
Our memory foam comes in a range of thicknesses. Let’s explain the difference.
3cm Memory Foam
Thinner mattresses with a 3cm layer of memory foam are great for back sleepers, however, side sleepers may require something deeper to provide more cushioning on pressure points.
This type of memory foam is affordable and makes a great addition to your spare bedroom or student accommodation.
5cm Memory Foam
This level of memory foam thickness provides a little extra luxury and works well for back, front and side sleepers with soft to medium support.
7cm Memory Foam
This deeper layer of memory foam is recommended for those who suffer from back or joint pain while they sleep. This supportive memory foam is perfect for those who need extra cushioning, comfort and support.
8cm Memory Foam
Thicker, high-density memory foam is ideal for those looking for maximum support and luxurious comfort. This memory foam thickness is often used for orthopaedic mattresses.
10cm Memory Foam
This is the thickest memory foam mattress we offer and is suited to heavier sleepers who need extra support throughout the night.
How Thick of a Mattress Topper Should I Get?
If you’re looking to upgrade your existing mattress with a memory foam topper or simply add another luxurious layer, you will also need to consider thickness.
Our memory foam mattress toppers come in 3 different thicknesses;
5cm Memory Foam
This topper thickness adds a layer of comfort to your existing mattress without breaking the budget.
7.5cm Memory Foam
This medium density foam is ideal if you suffer from aches and pains and need a little extra support.
10cm Memory Foam
Well suited to heavier sleepers or those who prefer luxurious support.
What Thickness Memory Foam Mattress is Best? Find Your Fit
Here at Memory Foam Warehouse, we have a wide range of quality mattresses to suit any sleeping style imaginable. From standard mattresses to hybrid memory foam, we’re confident we can help you find your perfect match.
To help you choose, our mattress buying guide is full of helpful information.
Ready to get started? Start browsing our memory foam mattress collections to find the perfect night’s sleep.
