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Overview
Tempur-Pedic mattresses are luxury sleep products that are known for providing exceptional comfort and improved sleep for users. The mattresses are made from a polyurethane-based memory foam material that was originally designed for NASA space shuttles. This foam is meant to reduce common physical stress and joint pressure that occurs during sleep by contouring to the user's form. While the mattresses enjoy an extremely positive worldwide reputation, they have several downsides which make them not right for all consumers.
Pro: Energy Absorption
One of the most praised aspects of Tempur-Pedic mattresses is their ability to absorb energy. The multi-layered memory foam material has the ability to relieve pressure and decrease mattress movement during the night, enabling users to enjoy longer unbroken sleep without the need to turn and readjust position during the night. The energy absorbing quality ensures that a partner on one side of the bed will not feel the movements of the partner on the other side of the bed, which also promotes deep quality sleep.
Pro: Maintenance and Warranty
Another positive feature of Tempur-Pedic mattresses is their low maintenance and stellar accompanying warranty. While Tempur-Pedic mattresses conform to the shape of the sleeper at night, they return to their standard density and height when the user gets out of bed. They do not need to be rotated or flipped like other mattresses because the memory foam material does not develop body impressions over time. If for some reason lasting body contour appear, the warranty guarantees the free repair or replacement of the item within twenty years of purchase.
Con: Cost
In spite of their good qualities, the advanced engineering for Tempur-Pedic mattresses is only available to consumers at a significant cost. The twin set for the original and most basic Tempur-Pedic mattress set costs $2,300, almost fifteen hundred more than many queen sized traditional mattress sets cost. Several of the more luxurious sets approach $10,000 for sets that include mattress, foundation, and adjustable bases. Such high prices put the Tempur-Pedic out of reach for many consumers.
Con: Long-Term Effects
Also, many consumers have been complaining that after sleeping on a Tempur-Pedic mattress for an extended period of time they actually experience more joint pain than they did on a traditional spring mattress. While the first six to eight months using a Tempur-Pedic provide improved sleep, customers have found that beyond that time they have experienced hip, lower back, knee and neck pain, leading some to the conclusion that the memory foam material is too soft for long term use. Another implication of this finding is that Tempur-Pedic mattresses are not good choices for consumers who are bedridden.
Con: Elemental Absorption
Customers have complained that the memory foam material absorbs outside elements, such as moisture and temperature, resulting in mattresses that are humid and damp in warm climates, hard and cold during winter months. The Tempur-Pedic mattresses also absorb odor. A common complaint is that Tempur-Pedic mattresses often retain a very unpleasant odor from their plastic packaging material for months after opening. Some customers have had allergic reactions to this odor, along with severe headaches, inability to sleep and aggravated sinuses.
