What happens if kids jump on a memory foam mattress? In short, it can cause damage. Repetitive jumping can lead to impact indentations in the memory foam structure. This reduces comfort and a loss of edge support. Jumping on your memory foam mattress is not a good idea.
Does Jumping on a Memory Foam Mattress Damage the Mattress?
Let’s face it, kids love jumping on mattresses. Especially bouncy mattresses that have a trampoline effect. We know it’s not good for spring mattresses, but what about memory foam? With its unique feel, what happens if you jump up and down on a memory foam mattress? Let’s take a closer look.
It’s not a good idea. Jumping up and down on any mattress can cause damage. And, a memory foam mattress is no different. The repeated impact strain on the foam surface is the culprit. It can cause irreparable cell foam damage. And, can leave large foot-sized indentations in the mattress surface. Bad news for comfort.
Lasting Impression on Mattress Surface
Pockets of indentations are the last thing you want. This creates an uneven sleeping surface. And, makes it very difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position. Memory foam is designed to slowly change shape in response to the pressure and shape of your body. Then, it slowly morphs back to its original shape when the pressure is removed.
Kids jumping on memory foam mattresses will compromise the mattresses’s ability to perform as designed. Comfort and sleep quality are negatively impacted. If you want to keep your memory foam in proper working order, don’t allow kids to jump on it.
What Damage Does Kids Jumping on a Memory Foam Mattress Cause?
Okay, so we know jumping on a memory foam is bad news. And, that it causes damage. But, what damage does it cause? Can it be avoided? And, is it reparable? Let’s take a look.
Structural Damage
Jumping on a memory foam can cause permanent structural damage. Especially if repeated over a long period. Memory foam is made up of millions of elastic foam cells. They are designed to slowly change shape in response to pressure.
However, jumping on them repeatedly can compress them and result in them losing their elasticity. In simple terms, they compress and do not bounce back to their original shape.
Permanent Indentations
The biggest problem with kids jumping on a memory foam mattress is permanent indentations. These are surface depressions on the mattress surface that remain after the pressure is taken away. And, they are caused by the repetitive strain of a kid’s feet striking the mattress while jumping up and down. Once this happens, the mattress cannot be repaired and becomes uncomfortable to sleep on.
Reduced Edge Support
Loss of edge support is a common issue amongst memory foam mattresses. And, kids jumping on memory foam can aggravate the issue. Edge support is the ability of a mattress to provide stable firm support right along the mattress edge.
And, loss of edge support results in rounding along the edges. In effect, it reduces the effective sleeping area of the mattress surface.
Tears & Punctures
The surface of the mattress itself can suffer tears and puncture damage. Especially the outer protective layer. Most memory foam mattresses are supplied with a mattress cover. This is a soft-to-touch cotton layer that adds additional comfort and helps protect the foam surface. Mattress covers are made of delicate materials, and kids jumping on the mattress may tear and puncture the fabric.
Falls & Bumps
Then there’s the kids themselves. While it’s a lot of fun jumping up and down on a mattress there are several safety risks. Falls and trips while jumping can lead to all sorts of injuries, from minor to something more serious. Cuts and bruises are the most common mishaps. But sprains and fractures are not unknown. Keep an eye on your kids, and discourage any jumping on memory foam mattresses where possible.
Senior Editor
Josh is senior editor at Mattress Comfort Guide. He is an industry expert with over 30 years of experience in the bed and mattress industry. Josh is a native of Albuquerque and is a graduate of the University of New Mexico. He holds an M.S. in Project Management and a B.S. in Earth & Planetary Sciences.
He has worked in both the retail and manufacturing industries where he has held consultancy roles on mattress design and technologies. Josh has a particular interest in how different mattress types complement body size and sleeping position, and deliver optimal lumbar support. Josh is a keen sports fan and when he’s away from the office he likes to play basketball and catch the New Mexico Lobos games with his two sons at the Pit.