What ILD is memory foam? Trying to replace memory foam layer with comparable latex

[phoenix]

Hi lwhughes,

But I strongly believe a mattress with that much low-quality cush is a body impression waiting to happen.

I couldn’t agree more … especially as you said when the quality/density of the comfort materials are low.

Following your advice, Phoenix, I sought out a local manufacturer and found Restopedic in Bethany, CT. (BTW: Thank you SO MUCH for the suggestion! I never would’ve thought of it.) I’m having Restopedic clone the Serta mattress, but using layers of latex instead of memory foam. From the bottom up the plan is: a 720 coil Leggett and Platt lura-flex base, a padding layer over the springs, 2 inches of 38 ILD latex, 2 inches of 28 ILD latex (Int’l Latex), and a 1-inch quilted cover of foam, organic wool and organic cotton fabric.

I would keep in mind that latex and memory foam are more opposites than similar and that comparing their ILD can be very misleading because of the differences in how they respond and the limitations of ILD testing. For example … memory foam that is in the range of 18 ILD would be considered to be quite firm for memory foam but this would be very soft for latex. The ILD of memory foam also changes with temperature, humidity, and the length of time it is compressed while fast response materials such as latex remain much more consistent under different conditions. There is more about how they compare (or don’t) in post #2 here.

When you are trying to “approximate” two very different designs using different materials that aren’t really comparable … then it’s much more of an “art” than a science and the differences would be subjective more than anything else (see post #9 here). There are too many different types of memory foams and memory foam designs to be able to predict how they would compare for any specific person with any certainty because there is no formula that can compare them in a specific mattress design when there are so many variables and differences between them. In other words … you would be relying on the knowledge and experience of the manufacturer and their understanding of their mattresses and how the components inside them interact together and what you were trying to “approximate” to create a “feel” and PPP that is as close to what you are looking for as possible. This is one of the reasons that dealing with an experienced manufacturer like Restopedic can be so valuable even though you are looking at two very different types of mattress that aren’t really comparable. They would be the best source of guidance because they would be much more familiar with the feel and response of their different designs and how they may compare to the Serta you were testing than anyone else.

Assuming that you go ahead with your purchase … congratulations on your new mattress

I’m looking forward to finding out about your final decision and of course your feedback once you’ve had the chance to sleep on it.

Phoenix