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The first thing most people seek in a mattress is comfort. And there’s nothing more comfortable than a cozy memory foam that hugs you in all the right places and makes you drift away in the Land of Nod.
But how can you find a memory foam bed that will suit your demand?
Easy!
Our team has already selected the best memory foam mattresses in Australia for different occasions and added some valuable tips to help you make your choice.
A Quick Preview
 | Best Overall - Editor’s Choice Emma Comfort Mattress | Check Current Price Read more about this mattress |
 | Best for Couples Koala Mattress | Check Current Price Read more about this mattress |
 | Best Hybrid Option Newentor Hybrid Mattress | Check Current Price Read more about this mattress |
 | BEST FOR BAD BACKS Ergoflex | Check Current Price Read more about this mattress |
Our List of the Best Memory Foam Mattresses in Australia (November 2023)
Best Overall — Editor’s Choice — Emma Comfort Mattress
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Highlights
- It uses a cover that drains the surface moisture, making the mattress surface dry and cool, always even during use;
- Employs a mattress zoning system for customized support for the different types of sleepers;
- Offers premium motion isolation, thanks to the pressure point foam design. This also enables it to offer a cradle-like feel for the joints.
The Emma Comfort mattress is first on our list, made up of 2 foam layers encased in two covers. This mattress's design aims to provide optimal comfort for the consumer. Read along.
To start with, the foam segmented has two layers, with the layers having different densities. The less-dense upper layer uses a pressure point design which makes the foam react to pressure only from the point at which it was applied. Although common in memory foam mattresses, this feature offers premium motion isolation and a hug-like feel for a good rest.
From my tests, the Emma Comfort isolated motion up to 3.5 inches from my glass of water. This was enough that my partner didn't notice when I tossed and turned in bed, helping them sleep with fewer disturbances. The Emma Comfort isolated 1.5 inches more than the Ergoflex 5G, making the Emma Comfort a better option for light sleepers with restless partners.
“After having tested the Emma Comfort, I recommend it to couples. This is an excellent option for couples, even if they don’t share the same weight, as it is responsive and supportive with excellent motion isolation,” explained Amelia Jerden, a Senior Staff Writer at Sleepopolis.
This model’s hug-like feel also stood out to me, mainly due to the Airgocell open-cell foam. I measured a sinkage of 2.2 inches while reviewing this mattress and enjoyed deep cradling, which relieved my pressure. It has 0.19 inches more sinkage than the Peacelily on its medium side, which means the Emma Comfort is better suited to sleepers who want more sinkage and a deeper, enveloping hug. The Emma Comfort’s hugging feel is balanced by the firmer layer underneath, so I also enjoyed excellent spinal support.
The other foam layer is denser, and it is the support system of this mattress. The dense layer is designed to provide individual support for the body’s pressure points through the adoption of the mattress zoning system. The two layers of foam also work together to get moisture away from the surface, thereby keeping the mattress surface cool.
This mattress’s medium firmness feel makes it a good option for different kinds of sleepers while its density is also an indication of durability, even when used by individuals heavier than average.
Based on Our Review
The Emma Comfort mattress carried my body well during tests and I liked how it conformed around my body. I think most sleeping types will like the balanced feel of this bed.
Pros:
- This bed provides excellent motion isolation, which partnered sleepers will enjoy;
- The cover of the mattress is removable, making it easy to clean and maintain;
- The mattress features a sturdy and durable construction.
Cons:
- The edge support on this mattress could be better;
- This bed didn’t feel springy like competing mattresses.
Best for Couples — Koala Mattress
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Highlights
- The Kloudcell foam layer is cushioning, helping redistribute your weight for good pressure relief;
- This model uses 3-Zone support technology in the base, giving targeted, ergonomic comfort that promotes a healthy spine;
- The cradling comfort layers isolate motion, helping couples sleep with fewer disturbances.
The Koala is my best memory foam mattress for couples, thanks to its excellent motion isolation capabilities, traditional memory foam feel, and reliable edge support. Sleepers who share the bed with a restless partner know the struggle of feeling every jostle when they move. That’s why the best mattresses for couples tend to isolate a lot of motion, which the Koala excels at. From my tests, the Koala absorbed up to 2 inches of motion transfer from my glass on its medium-firm side. Its firmer side absorbed up to 2.5 inches. This is a high level of motion isolation. My partner reported that they couldn’t feel it when I got in and out of bed or tossed and turned. This model’s medium-firm side absorbed 3 inches more motion transfer than the Ergoflex 5G, making the Koala a better memory foam option for restless partners.
Along with excellent motion isolation, this model boasts slow-adaptive foam for a traditional memory foam feel. From my review, the Koala’s medium-firm side recovered from compressions after 0.7 seconds, and its firm side recovered after 0.5 seconds. The firm side felt more spongy and faster at adapting. However, both sides gave a slight delay, letting me sink into the layers for better pressure relief. The foam wasn’t slow enough to restrict my movement, as I could still switch from my back to my stomach without much effort. The Koala’s firm side is 0.2 seconds slower than the Peacelily, making the Koala a better option for slow-adaptive comfort.
Another feature that caught my attention with the Koala was its excellent edge support. According to my tests, the Koala sank about 3.5 inches on its medium-firm side while I sat on the edge. Its firm side sank at around 3.2 inches. On both sides, I felt secure and stable, not at risk of falling out. The Koala’s medium-firm side had 0.1 inches better edge support than the Ergoflex 5G, making both similar in their effective edge support.
Based On Our Review
When I was reviewing this model, the dense, sponge-like quality of the Koala’s firm side was soft enough to cradle my shoulders and hips effectively. I was comfortable on both firmnesses and had sufficient sinkage to feel like I was resting on a cloud.
Pros:
- Excellent motion isolation for couples;
- Excellent support from its 3-zone system;
- Great edge support due to its solid base.
Cons:
- Too firm for lightweight side sleepers;
- Not enough cooling technology for hot sleepers.
Best Hybrid Option — Newentor Hybrid Mattress
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Highlights
- The Gel-Visco Flow foam layer conforms to the body, helping relieve pressure and encouraging restful sleep.
- The Bouncy Q FLow foam and coils encourage a straight spine, helping you feel supported and tension-free.
- The breathable charcoal fibre cover helps disperse heat, keeping your temperature neutral and night sweat-free.
The Newentor is my best hybrid option due to its excellent sinkage, cradling response, and temperature-neutral feel.
SInkage is a critical feature of the best memory foam mattresses, and the Newentor Hybrid is no exception. Sinkage allows for more of a cushioning cradle that can help relieve pressure points. From my tests, the Newentor Hybrid had a sinkage of 1.9 inches, which is an excellent balance of sinkage and support. I could feel it conform around my shoulders and hips, but it kept my hip elevated simultaneously for even pressure relief.
The Newentor Hybrid had 0.2 inches more sinkage than the Lazycat spring mattress. I would recommend the Newentor Hybrid to sleepers who prefer slightly more body hug and cushioning support while sleeping.
Tying into sinkage is how responsive a mattress feels. The slower it is, the more pressure-relieving properties it has. The Newentor Hybrid has a generously slow response time, giving the foam time to conform more closely to your body. In my tests, the Newentor Hybrid had a full recovery speed of 1.1 seconds. I could still move around without much effort, but I noticed a slight delay that made me feel more cushioned.
The Newentor Hybrid had a slower response than the Valmori spring mattress by 0.8 seconds. I would recommend the Newentor Hybrid to any sleeper who prefers a traditional memory foam feel.
How cool a mattress feels also affects its overall comfort and is an important feature to look for in memory foam mattresses. Memory foam is known to be naturally more heat-retaining, so memory foam mattresses with more heat-dispersing properties are highly sought after. In my tests, the Newentor Hybrid was recorded at 30.6 degrees Celsius. I felt cool and temperature-neutral, without heat building up while I slept.
The Newentor Hybrid had better cooling abilities than the Emma Diamond Hybrid by 0.7 degrees. I would recommend the Newentor Hybrid to hot sleepers who prefer a slightly cooler memory foam mattress.
Based on Our Review
According to my review, the Newentor Hybrid was especially cushioning for my shoulders and hips. I could sink into the layers moderately and felt the marshmallow-like quality of the top comfort layers. The coils provided just enough support to keep my body evenly supported and straight, so I was free of tension.
Pros:
- Excellent traditional memory foam feel for sleepers who enjoy extra cradling and pressure relief;
- Good cooling for hot sleepers;
- Excellent support to help sleepers who prefer a high level of healthy spinal alignment.
Cons:
- Too much motion transfer for light sleepers with restless partners;
- Too soft for heavier stomach sleepers over 230 pounds.
Best For Bad Backs — Ergoflex
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Highlights
- Delivers total-body pressure relief;
- Breathable design for sweat-free sleep;
- Removable odour-repellent Tencel cover;
- Inner encasement wards off dust mites;
- Optimal firmness level for mixed sleepers.
One of the most prominent features of memory foam is its ability to relieve sore points. Some people — such as those with physically demanding work, athletes, or people with chronic pain — may need a more potent cradling effect, and this is exactly the reason why the Ergoflex bed claims its place on the list of the best memory foam mattresses in Australia.
The thing is, the Ergoflex uses traditional viscous memory foam, which resembles the material once invented by NASA. This memory foam gently cradles your body and relaxed deep muscles that support your spine. I measured a sinkage of 2.19 inches during my tests with this model, and despite feeling the firmness of this mattress on my side, there was still enough cushioning that I was comfortable and tension-free. This has 0.14 inches more sinkage than the Koala on its medium-firm side, meaning the Ergoflex is slightly better for sleepers who prefer more of a hug to their bed and want firmness that may help a bad back. Good viscosity also results in minimal motion transfer, so your active partner won’t be able to disturb your sleep.
“We felt the Ergoflex 5G was especially good for back pain, as it helped to reduce our soreness after trying out this mattress. It was also good for motion isolation if you sleep with a fidgety partner, as we weren’t disturbed by any movements of our partner,” said Eleanor Jones, the executive editor of The Independent.
Also, the Ergoflex cares about your sweat-free sleep. It has a layer of convoluted foam in the middle to ensure good airflow and heat removal. According to my review, the Ergoflex 5G’s Cool-Sleep Airflow layer ensured I only reached a maximum temperature of 31.9 degrees Celsius. This is cool enough that my temperature remained pleasantly neutral at night. The Ergoflex 5G is 0.2 degrees hotter than the Emma Comfort, making both similar in how well they disperse heat. All this goodness is encased in a protective inner cover to repel mould and dust mites and a removable Tencel cover that you can wash and refresh your mattress.
So, if you’re working physically, lead an active lifestyle, or just want a super-cozy mattress to sleep on — the Ergoflex is the way to go!
Based on Our Review
The pressure-relieving qualities of the Ergoflex were evident during my review. The memory foam construction cradled around my bones and felt firm enough when I slept on my back.
Pros:
- This mattress feels plush and conforms around the body;
- The memory foam provides the ideal level of sinkage for most back sleepers;
- The Tencel cover feels lightweight and hypoallergenic.
Cons:
- The sleep trial period is shorter than competing mattresses;
- This bed trapped body heat during tests
Why You Should Trust Me
When understanding the mattress industry, I have spent countless hours researching technology and trends. I examine mattresses up close, conducting rigorous tests to determine their best qualities. My tests measure a mattress’s comfort, pressure relief, and how well it can support a person sitting on the edge. I also measure other factors, like how cooling the mattress is and if it has added benefits like a removable cover.
The best memory foam mattresses typically have excellent comfort, pressure relief, and reliable support. That’s why I looked at these categories more closely during my tests. The mattresses that excelled at these tests ranked higher on my list, while others that didn’t fare as well ranked slightly lower. This is how I determined which mattresses would best fit your home. You can learn more about how I test my mattresses here.
Benefits of Memory Foam Mattresses Over Other Types
Memory foam is made of polyurethane — a material that is typically used in sofas, car seats, medical equipment, etc — and some additives aimed to make the foam denser, improve its viscosity, and durability.
Making a memory foam mattress in Australia is a relatively cheap process, so you can find models for literally any budget.
But good value for money isn’t the only benefit of memory foam beds. They have a couple more great features:
- Pressure relief. The most notable feature of memory foam is its ability to alleviate pressure points by contouring your hips and shoulders instead of resisting them as coils usually do. A memory foam mattress can comfortably hug even the smallest sleeper and ensure that there will be no sore points upon awakening.
- Spinal support. Normally, if you sleep on your side, your spine should be parallel to the ground, and if you sleep on the back, it should maintain natural curves in cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions. Memory foam, thanks to its ability to cradle the protruding parts of your body, can ensure neutral spine alignment in any position and prevent back pain. Some of the best mattresses for bad backs use memory foam to cushion the spine and keep it straight.
- Motion absorption. The high viscosity and closed-cell structure of memory foam allow it to ‘lock’ the movement within the cell without spreading it across the mattress. This means that you can finally snooze without any disturbances if your partner is a restless sleeper.
- Hypoallergenic properties. Today, every mattress company has its own ‘recipe’ for manufacturing memory foam. However, the final result is a stabilized compound that doesn’t emit any harsh chemicals that can deplete your health.
Memory Foam vs. Polyfoam: Are They the Same?
Shoppers can come across two foam mattress types on the market - memory and polyurethane.
Now, readers already know that memory foam is made of polyurethane. So, does it mean all these mattresses are the same?
The answer is no. It’s true that memory foam is made using polyurethane, but a special viscoelastic type. It's a low-resistance polyfoam that is made by adding different components to polyurethane. The process allows manufacturers to change the feel of polyurethane foam and make it more elastic and cradling. Because this foam adapts to the body’s shape, it’s called memory foam (as if it could remember the sleeper’s shape).
As for regular polyurethane mattresses, they don’t have this viscoelastic nature. While polyfoam mattresses are also cradling and adaptive, they don’t offer that much of a hug. Polyurethane foam responds to applied pressure faster and, thus, doesn’t feel as enveloping as memory foam.
That’s the main difference between these two mattress types. Shoppers should also keep in mind that polyfoam is typically less durable. That being said, polyfoam mattresses are usually cheaper than memory foam models.
Also Read: How to Cut a Memory Foam Mattress
How to Choose a Right Firmness of Memory Foam?
Mattress firmness is one of the main factors that define your comfort. However, its perception depends on many factors, with the most important ones being your weight and preferred sleeping position.
So, how to choose the right firmness level based on these two parameters?
The short answer is: easier than it seems!
See for yourself!
- Back sleepers. Here’s the good news: if you belong to this category, you are lucky, as sleeping on one’s back creates optimal conditions to maintain a neutral spine (and consequently - a healthier back). The medium (or a medium-firm, if you prefer a slightly stiffer support) comfort level is typically the most suitable option for back sleepers. In this case, you will receive a moderate amount of a hug to cradle your hips and buttocks but not too much sinkage to avoid an unwanted curve of the spine.
I think back sleepers will like the firmness level of latex mattresses.
- Side sleepers. These folks need a mattress that is able to hug their hips and shoulders and maintain the neutral spine without awkward curves. The best pick here is a soft bed, however, if you mix between side and back sleeping, consider going level up and choosing a medium bed that will have enough support for these two sleeping positions.
- Stomach sleepers. If you feel the most comfortable sleeping on your tummy, be sure to choose the mattress with a firmer feel or enforced lumbar support. The lower back receives a lot of pressure if you sleep on your stomach, so be sure to prevent it from sinking too deep.
- Combination sleepers. Combo sleepers tend to change positions during the night. Often, this makes choosing an appropriate firmness level a bit challenging. Such sleepers are typically advised to pick something in between their favorite positions. In most cases, medium firmness works well for combination sleepers.
Choosing the mattress firmness according to your weight is even easier: the more your body mass index is, the firmer the mattress you might need. In this case, your bed can compensate for the large weight and maintain natural spine curves.
At the same time, petite individuals (less than 60 kg) might want to go one step softer for each sleeping style described above. The thing is, their weight might not be enough to compress the comfort layers of the mattress, leading to a firmer feel and inadequate pressure relief.
“Note that memory foam mattresses may feel firmer at the beginning, as they use your body heat to soften up and adapt to your shape (1).”
Things to Look for in a Good Memory Foam Bed
Details make everything unique, and your sleeping experience is no exception.
So, here’s a couple more things that you should consider when looking for a top-rated memory foam mattress in Australia to make the most of your purchase.
Also Read: Best Firm Mattresses
Temperature Regulation
As you probably know, memory foam is notorious for its ability to trap body heat. Plus, it can be very hugging, which is a recipe for disaster if you are a hot sleeper.
In this case, you can try going with a model that uses breathable open-cell foams or has the comfort layer that’s infused with gel for cooling. Also, you might want to pay attention to the cover fabric. Keep in mind that synthetic covers aren’t very breathable and may also contribute to your night sweats. For better thermoregulation, stick to natural fabrics or synthetic + natural blends, at least.
Also Read: Best Mattresses For Hot Sleepers
Foam Structure
Foam structure defines some of its properties, such as thermoregulation, off-gassing, and durability.
Here are the options you can get today:
- Closed-cell. Also known as ‘traditional’, this type of memory foam has — you guessed it — a lot of microscopic cells with each one being isolated from the other. Basically, this structure allows for achieving the memory effect by slowing down the rebound. However, traditional foams are also prone to hot sleeping because the heat dissipates more slowly from closed cells.
- Open-cell. Very similar to the previous one, except that all the cells are connected with each other. This makes the foam more responsive to movements and springy and allows the air to circulate between cells, thus increasing heat removal. However, open-cell foams may have a shorter lifespan.
- Infused. Some manufacturers add gel beads, charcoal dust, aloe vera extracts, copper particles, or other additives to their memory foam to make it more durable and minimize heat retention. Some infusions, such as green tea or lavender, also mask the chemical foam odor and make the mattress more suitable for sensitive sleepers.
Foam Density
Density is the parameter that describes weight per volume and is measured in pounds per cubic foot (PCF) or kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m3). The denser the foam, the heavier it is, and the better it will maintain its shape.
Typically, memory foam density varies from 24 to 128 kg/m3 or 1.5 to 8 PCF. To make sure that you’re getting a quality-made mattress, look for at least 4-6 PCF (64-96 kg/m3) (2). A lower number means low-quality memory foam that will have a shorter lifespan.
Edge Support
Even though memory foam mattresses seem almost perfect, they do have some weak points.
And one of these weak points is edge support, especially in traditional memory foam beds. Since this foam is less responsive and takes some time to spring back in shape, it may start sagging on the edges pretty quickly.
To avoid this, look for the beds with a polyfoam core layer, which is more responsive and resilient. Or, you can pair a mattress with a sturdy bed base that will reinforce the edges.
Other Considerations When Looking for the Best Memory Foam Mattress
When shoppers know what to look for, they can save a lot of time and easily filter through the available mattress options. Plus, knowing what to expect from memory foam can save shoppers from disappointment in the future. So, here are a few more aspects readers might want to account for:
- Size. In most cases, shoppers know what mattress size they need. For example, Queen is popular among couples, Full should be enough for solo sleepers who like to sprawl out, and King is ideal for families who practice co-sleeping. Here’s the deal, though: memory foam mattresses usually have weak edges. And this means less sleeping space. Therefore, shoppers may have to opt for a larger size to compensate for the mediocre edge support when choosing a good memory foam mattress.
- Price. Memory foam mattresses can drastically vary in price based on the brand name, foam peculiarities, warranty, cooling properties, etc. When planning to buy a new model, shoppers might want to compare brands that offer similar mattresses. Cooling models typically cost more, and so do the larger sizes. A good way to save on a new mattress is to shop around holidays or look for coupon codes online.
- Ease of movement. It’s not a secret that memory foam mattresses have a slow-moving feel. Because of that, they can often restrict movement (which isn’t ideal for sex or combination/restless sleepers). In this case, it might be a good idea to use a memory foam mattress on a foundation with sprung slats. They will offer bouncy support and may counteract the quicksand feel of the foam. It’s also worth mentioning that firmer models usually feel less restricting. However, this comfort level doesn’t work for all sleeping styles.
In my opinion, a mattress topper can make moving across the mattress easier.
- Adjustment period. Most memory foam mattresses require a break-in period. During this time, they can feel firmer than anticipated. The thing is, foam needs some time to adjust to the shape of the sleeper’s body. Just like that, shoppers may need a few days to get used to their new mattress. And keeping this adjustment period in mind can help them avoid disappointment and frustration.
- Off-gassing. To turn polyurethane into viscoelastic memory foam, manufacturers use VOCs - volatile organic compounds. They may emit off-gassing upon arrival, and readers need to be aware of that. However, the smell usually dissipates within a few hours (sometimes days, depending on the model), especially if shoppers leave their new mattress in a well-ventilated room.
I think sleepers will also benefit from airing the bed to reduce the off-gassing odors.
Also Read: Best Mattress for Side Sleepers in Australia
F.A.Q.
How long do memory foam mattresses last?
On average, memory foam mattresses last for around 7-10 years. However, their lifespan may vary depending on the foam density, manufacturer, and how they are taken care of.
Is memory foam bad for sex?
Not necessarily, but it can restrict movement, which might not work for some couples. At the same time, memory foam makes zero noise and can come in handy if you and your partner are trying to be discreet.
What memory foam mattress thickness should I get?
For a decent level of support, a good memory foam mattress should be at least 8 inches thick. Although, taller models (around 10-12 inches) should be able to provide higher comfort levels, especially if you require a deeper hug or sturdier support (depending on the firmness level that you choose).
Wrapping Up
Memory foam mattresses are popular for a reason. They offer unbeatable cradling, pain relief, and are the definition of a comfy mattress for most users. To make the most of your choice, avoid the traditional memory foam if you can and choose modern materials that sleep cool and don’t have a chemical smell. Also, consider your preferred sleeping position and weight when looking for perfect firmness, so you will avoid the return hassle later.
If you are unsure what mattress to pick, you can opt for our editor’s choice, the Emma Comfort mattress. The extra quality it offers through the zoning mattress system that helps customize support for individual body parts makes it a welcomed choice for all types of sleepers.
So, have you made your choice already? Which model will make a good fit for your bedroom? Share your answers below!
References
- Chris Woodford (2020, February 19) How Does Memory Foam Work? Retrieved from https://www.explainthatstuff.com/memoryfoammattresses.html
- Laurie Brenner (n.d.). Difference in Quality in Memory Foam. Retrieved from https://homeguides.sfgate.com/difference-quality-memory-foam-101320.html
Allana Wass is the Co-Founder and Editor-in-chief at Comfybeddy. She was trained at the Spencer Institute to become a Certified Sleep Science Coach and has been featured in VeryWellMind, U.S. News, and Bustle. She has tested over 50 sleep products, which include mattresses, mattress toppers, and pillows. She has spent countless hours researching the mattress industry and learning about its cutting-edge technology for over four years, helping you improve your sleep. With her wealth of experience, she thoroughly reviews mattresses and other sleep products to give the best recommendations for each kind of sleeper.
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Thank you! Choosing a memory foam mattress was overwhelming, but your tips made it a breeze.
I’m stoked that the tips turned the overwhelming into a breeze for your memory foam mattress pick!
I’m looking to purchase a memory foam mattress, and with the plethora of choices available, I’d appreciate it if you could offer some essential factors to consider when selecting the ideal one.
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the best one:
You can find additional insights about more factors in the paragraphs “Things to Look for in a Good Memory Foam Bed” and “Other Considerations When Looking for the Best Memory Foam Mattress.”