New memory foam mattresses are generally white or very pale cream, but as they get older or exposed to sunlight, reactions can occur in the foam which cause it to change colour. The colour change ranges from pale yellow to light brown and can vary in shade across the mattress.

The reason for the colour change is oxidation of the surface of the memory foam mattress as it reacts with oxygen in the air. This is like metals tarnishing, or vegetables discolouring when cut and left in the air too long. It only discolours the surface of the mattress, leaving the layers below unaffected so does not affect the memory foam performance in any way.

The oxidation occurs because of the composition of the foam and is increased by exposure to direct sunlight. If you would prefer to avoid the colour change for attractiveness’ sake, the best way to keep it white is to use a cover or memory foam mattress protector. The Coolmax covers provided with every mattress here on Memory Foam Mattress Direct do the trick nicely by keeping it tightly wrapped and out of direct natural light.

Keeping your memory foam mattress out of sunlight may seem high maintenance but most mattresses spend their time under layers of bedding and with one of the memory foam covers you won’t need to worry about light. But either way, remember that colour change is a natural part of the memory foam mattresses aging process and won’t take anything away from the fantastic sleeping experience they provide.