The Difference Between a Six Inch and an Eight Inch Memory Foam Mattress

The Difference Between a Six Inch and an Eight Inch Memory Foam Mattress

We place great emphasis on materials and comfort when buying mattresses. However, the thickness of the mattress also needs to be taken seriously for us. Especially when it comes to choosing a memory sponge mattress, the two thicknesses of six inches and eight inches often leave people struggling. We have actually tried these two different thicknesses of mattresses in our own home use, so today we will combine our experience to talk about the differences between a six inch memory foam mattress and an eight inch memory sponge mattress, which people are suitable for each, and which one is more suitable for our home use.

Ⅰ. The significance of thickness: not just numbers, but also the key to experience
We first realized the importance of mattress thickness when decorating the bedroom for children. At that time, we tried a six inch memory sponge mattress, which looked no different from other mattresses on the surface, but after sleeping for a while, we could feel that its support and wrapping were slightly weaker than thicker mattresses.

On the contrary, in the guest room, we use an eight inch memory sponge mattress, which is more stable in performance. Even if two adults sleep together, there will be no feeling of "sinking in". So, from an experiential perspective, the difference between a six inch memory foam mattress and an eight inch mattress is more reflected in the support and adaptability of the user population.

Ⅱ. Structural differences: not only in thickness, but also in the design of the supporting layer
Although it may only appear to be 2 inches thicker on the surface, in reality, there are usually differences in the internal structure between a six inch memory foam mattress and an eight inch memory sponge mattress.

Six inch memory foam mattress: usually consisting of one layer of memory foam and one layer of base foam, with a simple structure and a relatively thin and light weight.

Eight inch memory sponge mattress: may have added transition foam or support foam layers, with a more complex structure and better partition support.

We found during use that the eight inch mattress, due to its more distinct structure, can provide a clearer pressure dispersion effect. Especially for adults with slightly higher body weight, an eight inch mattress provides more stable support in key pressure bearing areas such as the hips and shoulders.

Ⅲ. Target audience: Weight and usage scenarios determine mattress selection
Based on our own usage experience, we have summarized the following recommendations for the target audience:

The six inch memory foam mattress is suitable for:
Children and teenagers: light weight, not high requirements for mattress support. 

Single occupant: ideal for small apartments, student dormitories, and rental houses with limited space.

Temporary rooms: Occasionally occupied, do not require overly thick mattresses.

People who prefer a slightly hard sleeping experience: Due to its thin thickness, the six inch memory foam mattress with a slightly medium hardness will not make people feel trapped.

The eight inch memory sponge mattress is suitable for:
Adults or those with heavier body weight: require a thicker support layer for more stable sleep.

Couples or couples sleeping scenario: Two adults falling asleep at the same time will not collapse or resonate.

For those who have high comfort requirements: they prefer a wrapped and soft experience with some elasticity.

Long term use of the master bedroom mattress: a mattress with high frequency of use and strong durability is required.

Ⅳ. Comfort experience: Six inches may not necessarily be bad, and eight inches is not omnipotent
During our experience, some six inch memory foam mattresses actually performed quite well, especially when the density was high and the craftsmanship was excellent. They were no less fitting and comfortable than eight inch products.

But we have also tried some eight inch mattresses with rough workmanship, although thick, they are hard and sound like sleeping on the floor. So, comfort is not only determined by thickness, but also closely related to material density, hardness, and layered structure.

Like us, prefer a moderate hardness or moderate softness sleeping experience, then whether it's a six inch memory sponge mattress or an eight inch version, as long as the softness and elasticity are appropriate, they are all good mattresses worth buying.

Ⅴ. The influence of mattress thickness on sleep quality
We found that for users of moderate height and weight, a six inch memory foam mattress can also provide good support and comfort. But if two people use this type of mattress together, especially larger users, it is easy for the mattress to collapse and unable to evenly distribute force, which will eventually affect spinal alignment and sleep quality.

On the contrary, an eight inch mattress has a higher thickness, larger cushioning space, and better adaptability to weight. After long-term use, the mattress is less likely to deform and has longer support.

Ⅵ. Price and cost-effectiveness: budget is also a practical factor
We also pay special attention to the price during the purchasing process.

Generally speaking, the price of a six inch memory foam mattress is generally 20% to 30% lower than the eight inch version. If we are only buying a mattress for our child or temporarily using it in the guest room, we believe that the six inch option would be more cost-effective. If the master bedroom is to be used for a long time and the budget allows, the investment of eight inches is obviously more worthwhile.

Ⅶ. Summary: How do we choose?
Our current home configuration is as follows:

Children's room: A high-density, moderately soft and hard six inch memory foam mattress is selected, which is both comfortable and space saving.

Master bedroom: Equipped with an eight inch memory sponge mattress to meet the sleeping needs of two people, ensuring comfort and support.

Guest room/spare bed: Still using the six inch version, convenient for cleaning and handling, and also sufficient for temporary use.

The six inch and eight inch memory sponge mattresses each have their own advantages and disadvantages. So how should we make a decision? We still need to judge based on our budget, target usage scenarios, and requirements.

If we are a lightweight person or planning to use it for children, a six inch memory foam mattress is already sufficient; But if two adults use it together for a long time, it is still recommended to choose an eight inch memory sponge mattress for greater stability.