Bamboo Infused vs. Visco Elastic Foam

Bamboo Infused

A bamboo infused mattress has one of two of the following properties: its cover is made of bamboo or it has a layer of foam that is infused with bamboo (generally bamboo charcoal) which provides added cooling similar to gel.

As there is a lot of hype around bamboo as a natural ingredient, there have been multiple brands that have included this ingredient for added product awareness.

However, it is important to know that bamboo infused memory foam and bamboo covered foam mattresses are still made of polyurethane, a synthetic blend of organic compounds that 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: Bamboo covers provide a cooler sleeping surface and bamboo infused memory foam similarly breathes better.

Cons: Off-gassing and durability problems with lower quality foams still exist despite being infused with bamboo.

Visco Elastic Foam

Visco elastic foam is another term for memory foam. It is a blend of polyurethane foam that was developed for airplane cushions by a NASA contract in the 1970s.

The difference between visco elastic foam and other types of polyurethane foam is its slow response and low resistance. Its soft surface allows for contouring and its slow response lowers bounce.

Visco elastic foam, like all polyurethane foam, is made from a blend of substances and has a tendency to off-gas. Those with lung sensitivities should do additional research about the quality of foam to ensure that it won't aggravate them.

Pros: Contouring comfort, competitive pricepoints, and widespread options.

Cons: Sagging and off-gassing problems with lower quality foams.

Learn More About Bamboo Infused

Learn More About Visco Elastic Foam

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Material Scores

Overall Score:
Bamboo Infused: 8.9/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.3/10

Comfort:
Bamboo Infused: 9/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.4/10

Softness:
Bamboo Infused: 9/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.5/10

Cooling:
Bamboo Infused: 9.1/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8/10

Hypoallergenic:
Bamboo Infused: 8.8/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.1/10

No Odor:
Bamboo Infused: 8.7/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.4/10

General Support:
Bamboo Infused: 8.7/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.7/10

Eco-Conscious:
Bamboo Infused: 8.9/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.5/10

Price Value:
Bamboo Infused: 9.2/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.4/10