Another Density Question

Mattress Talk General Mattresses Questions
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I’ve been communicating with another mattress maker (on your list) and when I asked for the density of their various thicknesses of foam, he gave me the ILD. I asked about density, and he told me that ILD is what is important and it would tell me the same thing. I’m confused. From reading here I thought that they measure two different things. Can anyone help? Should I be concerned if a maker can’t give me the density? Thanks again.

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Hey Greyling,

Thanks for your question :slight_smile: .

You have a number of current posts with varying questions about foams’ ILD and density measurements. You are doing a great job with your research of components to better understand durability potential. Latex is measured in terms of ILD/ Indentation Load Deflection that reflects the latex’s push-back response to pressure across different parts of the latex’s surface through ILD machine testing. The lower the number, the softer the intended feel. When you ask for ILD numbers, this is usually to better understand about the foam’s comfort “feel”, which is a personal preference and not a durability issue. All ILDs of quality latex are considered highly durable. Density/ lbs. per cu. ft. ratings are however an indicator of quality and durability of a foam when used as a support material, and TMU recommends this rating to be a minimum of 1.5- 1.8 lbs. per cu. ft. for polyfoams. The heavier and more dense the polyfoam, the higher the number and more durable the foam will be. You may find this YouTube by Talalay Global interesting for viewing an ILD measurement process in action.

Perhaps if you can explain a bit more what type foam you are researching and what your desired outcome is, we can help further with your research;) .

Thanks,
Sensei

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Thanks for the info Sensei. That helps me understand the whole thing better. I’m looking at latex and am focusing on the ILDs. I have a memory foam mattress and have been unable to get the manufacturer to give me either the ILDs or the densities. I’t going back! I should have read all you have to offer and I wouldn’t have made the mistake I did! I’m probably going with a Plush matress and need to talk with them about a couple of options. I like all of their organic and other certifications. My husband has a chronic blood disorder and so the fewer toxins the better. If anyone has any warnings for me about Plush, please let me know. I’m waiting until Monday to order as I have several questions for them.

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If anyone has any warnings for me about Plush, please let me know.

One thing you may want to clarify with them before any purchase is regarding the details of their return process. Unless they’ve changed their policy it differs in some respects from most other mattress sellers. Similar to others they will deduct full retail values from a refund of any free bonus items that may have been provided with the sale unless you return them unused and still factory sealed. For a mattress return though unlike most other companies that arrange for pickup of the mattress from inside your home, PlushBeds arranges and pays for return shipment by a freight carrier and you’re required to purchase a full sized mattress bag and box in order to safely package it for the return shipment. Since freight carriers will not come into a residence for pickups, it is also your responsibility to get the boxed mattress to the curb when the truck is scheduled to arrive. Their latex mattresses can weigh up into the 200 lb. range and can be very difficult to move. I know you wouldn’t plan on having to make a return but thought you’d want to be aware of their process in advance in case it’s needed.

  • Bill