Foam vs. Wool

Foam

Mattress foam comes in multiple different types: memory foam, polyurethane, and latex. Memory foam is a type of polyurethane foam that has lower resistance so it reacts and slowly reforms when pressure is released. It generally makes up the surface layers of a mattress.

Polyurethane comes in multiple different forms - making it useful in the middle and base layers of many foam and memory foam mattresses.

Latex is the natural alternative to memory foam and polyurethane foams. It is created from sap from a rubber tree and is treated to create different densities to cover both soft and firm requirements. Like rubber, it is highly responsive and has a bounce that some sleepers love and some others hate.

Pros: Depending on the foam type, it can be quite comfortable, safe, and responsive.

Cons: Lower quality foams can break down quickly, causing sagging issues within only a few months or years.

Wool

Wool is made of sheep fur. It is sheared from the sheep multiple times in their lives.

The most famous kind of wool being used in mattresses is New Zealand wool because of its attention to quality.

Wool is commonly found in the cover or as a comfort layer. As a comfort layer, it is packed tightly in the mattress so it can add softness to the top layers of the mattress. Some untreated wool may have a slight natural barnyard smell. It is also a natural fire retardent.

Pros: Wool is an all natural alternative to other types of comfort layers.

Cons: The quality of wool bedding is entirely dependent on mattress craftmanship. If the packing is too loose, there can be quick sagging and durability issues.

Learn More About Foam

Learn More About Wool

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Material Scores

Overall Score:
Foam: 9.3/10
Wool: 9/10

Comfort:
Foam: 9.4/10
Wool: 8.9/10

Softness:
Foam: 9.5/10
Wool: 9.3/10

Cooling:
Foam: 8/10
Wool: 9.2/10

Hypoallergenic:
Foam: 8.1/10
Wool: 9.3/10

No Odor:
Foam: 8.4/10
Wool: 9.1/10

General Support:
Foam: 8.7/10
Wool: 8/10

Eco-Conscious:
Foam: 8.5/10
Wool: 9.3/10

Price Value:
Foam: 9.4/10
Wool: 8/10