Cooling Mattress Technologies: How do Cooling Mattresses Work?

With advancements in mattress design, cooling technology has become a popular choice for those who struggle with overheating during the night. But how exactly do these cooling mattresses work, and what are the best options available on the market?

Understanding Cooling Mattress Technology

The science behind cooling mattresses revolves around regulating temperature and promoting airflow to keep sleepers cool and comfortable throughout the night. Here's how some of the primary cooling technologies work:

Gel-Infused Memory Foam: Traditional memory foam mattresses are renowned for their exceptional comfort and support, but they do have a downside—they can trap heat. This heat retention can lead to discomfort, especially for sleepers who tend to get warm during the night. However, thanks to advancements in mattress technology, there's a solution: gel-infused memory foam.

Not only does gel-infused memory foam provide a refreshing sensation, but it also helps to regulate temperature more effectively than traditional memory foam. By preventing heat from becoming trapped within the mattress, sleepers can enjoy a more consistent and comfortable sleep environment. 

Phase Change Materials (PCMs): These materials are special substances that can change from solid to liquid and back again, all while keeping the temperature just right.

Imagine tiny capsules filled with PCM scattered throughout your mattress. When you lie down, your body heat makes these capsules soak up the extra warmth, turning them into a liquid. This helps to cool you down and keeps the mattress from getting too hot.

But here's the cool part: when you're not as warm, like when the room cools down at night, the PCM gives back the stored heat, helping to keep you cozy without overheating. PCMs are often incorporated into mattress covers or comfort layers to provide a cooling effect.

Airflow Enhancement: When it comes to staying cool and comfortable throughout the night, airflow is key. That's why some mattresses incorporate special designs to promote better airflow, ensuring that heat dissipates more efficiently and sleepers stay cool all night long. These airflow-enhancing features can include:

Open-Cell Foam Structures: Traditional foam mattresses often feature closed-cell structures, which can restrict airflow and trap heat. However, mattresses with open-cell foam structures have tiny air pockets throughout the foam material. This design allows air to flow more freely, preventing heat from becoming trapped and creating a cooler sleep surface.

Convoluted Foam Layers: Convoluted foam, also known as egg crate foam, is characterized by its unique egg crate-like shape. This shape creates channels and ridges that increase surface area and promote airflow. As a result, heat is dispersed more effectively, helping sleepers maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the night.

Breathable Mattress Covers: The outer layer of a mattress plays a crucial role in temperature regulation. Breathable mattress covers are made from materials that allow air to circulate freely, preventing heat buildup and promoting ventilation. These covers often feature moisture-wicking properties as well, keeping sleepers dry and comfortable.

Active Cooling Technologies: In the world of mattress innovation, active cooling technologies represent the pinnacle of temperature regulation. Unlike passive cooling methods that rely on airflow or phase change materials, active cooling technologies go a step further by incorporating electronic components or sophisticated systems to actively regulate temperature throughout the night.

One example of active cooling technology uses fans or thermoelectric cooling devices embedded within the mattress structure. When the mattress detects an increase in temperature, the cooling system kicks into gear, circulating air or utilizing thermoelectric properties to draw heat away from the body and maintain a cool sleep surface. 

Another approach to active cooling involves water- or air-cooling systems integrated directly into the mattress. These systems typically consist of a network of tubes or channels filled with circulating water or air, which actively dissipates heat and regulates temperature.

Active bed cooling systems offer customization and control options, but there are a few drawbacks. They require energy, water, and additional space, and typically cost more than other cooling mattresses.

Best Cooling Mattresses at Sit ’n Sleep

Investing in a cooling mattress can make a significant difference in your sleep quality, especially if you struggle with overheating during the night. At Sit ’n Sleep, we understand the importance of a comfortable and restful night's sleep. That's why we offer a selection of cooling mattresses designed to provide the ultimate sleep experience. Whether you prefer the contouring support of memory foam or the responsive feel of a hybrid, there's cooling mattress options to suit your needs at Sit ’n Sleep. Here are some of our top picks: 

Cool Essential Mattress
This mattress features a gel-infused memory foam comfort layer to provide optimal cooling and pressure relief. 

Cool Standard Mattress
With a combination of gel-infused memory foam and breathable materials, the Cool Standard Mattress offers a balance of support and cooling comfort.

Hybrid Infinity Cool Essential by Classic:
Combining the support of pocketed coils with the cooling properties of gel memory foam, this hybrid mattress provides the best of both worlds.

Cool Luxury Mattress
Experience luxurious comfort and advanced cooling technology with the Cool Luxury Mattress, featuring multiple layers of cooling foam and support.

Cool Encore Luxury Mattress Line 
This premium mattress line offers enhanced cooling features and customizable comfort options for a personalized sleep experience.

To explore our full selection of cooling mattresses and bedding accessories, stop by one of our Southern California stores or visit us online at sitnsleep.com and say goodbye to sleepless, sweaty nights and hello to cool, restful sleep!