Orthopedic vs. Polyurethane Foam

Orthopedic

Orthopedic is a term that in the context of mattresses means supporting joints, bones, and the overall body. It is commonly used for mattresses that help with spinal alignment and recovery from joint or back issues.

In this way, there is no one material that is certified orthopedic, and the term can be used my manufacturers and marketers to help sell their mattresses.

For this reason, it is important to do additional research on any bed that claims to be orthopedic to make sure that it will actually help straighten the spine and alleviate pain.

Pros: For mattresses that stand true to the name, pain alleviation and better posture are some of the benefits.

Cons: It is difficult to decipher the truth from marketing on orthopedic mattresses.

Polyurethane Foam

Polyurethane foam is a blanket term that includes any foam that is synthesized using polyol and diisocyanate. These include but are not limited to: memory foam, high resilience foam, and high density foam. Since polyurethane foam can contain additives, a manufacturer that comes up with a new formula can name the new foam whatever they like.

Many memory foam mattresses are a combination of polyurethane foams, layered from dense on the bottom to less dense on the surface layers.

Polyurethane is a synthetic blend of organic compounds and has a tendency to off-gas. If you are susceptible to lung issues, please do additional research on the quality of foams before purchasing.

Pros: Many different types of foams exist under the polyurethane umbrella -- some are excellent for bedding and offer different firmness varieties!

Cons: Off-gassing and durability problems with lower quality foams.

Learn More About Orthopedic

Learn More About Polyurethane Foam

See Our Top Mattress Choices

Material Scores

Overall Score:
Orthopedic: 9/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.4/10

Comfort:
Orthopedic: 9.1/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.4/10

Softness:
Orthopedic: 9.1/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10

Cooling:
Orthopedic: 9/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8/10

Hypoallergenic:
Orthopedic: 9/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.1/10

No Odor:
Orthopedic: 9/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.4/10

General Support:
Orthopedic: 9.3/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10

Eco-Conscious:
Orthopedic: 8.9/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.5/10

Price Value:
Orthopedic: 8.8/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10