What are the common Tempurpedic Mattress Complaints?

1. The Mattress is too heavy

One of the first and most common complaints about Tempurpedic mattresses is that they are way heavier than traditional mattresses. This is because of the dense memory foam used in their construction. The foam density in a Tempurpedic mattress is higher than many other brands and while that contributes to a longer lifespan, it also makes the mattress cumbersome and hard to move.

Why it’s a problem: The weight of the mattress can be a big issue for users to rotate or flip (though most memory foam mattresses, including Tempurpedic, are one-sided and don’t need to be flipped). Moving the mattress can be a challenge, especially if you need to move it from one room to another or during a move. For some users, this can be a big inconvenience, especially for those who live alone or don’t have the strength or ability to handle such a big item.

Conclusion: The weight of Tempurpedic mattresses may deter buyers who prioritize ease of use and maintenance, but it also means the durability and quality of the materials used. This is a trade-off for those who value longevity over convenience.

2. Firmness Fluctuation

Tempurpedic mattresses are made of viscoelastic foam, which is temperature-sensitive. This means the mattress adjusts to the surrounding temperature. When exposed to cooler temperatures, the foam becomes firmer. When exposed to warmer temperatures, it becomes softer. This can cause an inconsistent feel especially for those who sleep in rooms where the temperature fluctuates a lot.

Why it’s a problem: Many users have reported that the mattress feels too firm when they get into bed, especially if the room is cool. Over time as the foam adjusts to their body heat, it softens, but this change can be jarring for some, especially if they prefer a consistent sleeping surface. While the foam does conform to the body and provide customized support, the initial firmness can be uncomfortable for some.

Conclusion: Fluctuating firmness can be a nuisance for some users who want immediate comfort and consistency in their mattress. This is especially true for those who live in cooler climates where the mattress may take longer to adjust to body temperature.

3. Sleeps Hot

One of the most common complaints about memory foam mattresses, including Tempurpedic, is that they retain heat and make you sleep hot. Many users have reported waking up sweating or feeling too warm during the night despite the Tempurpedic Airflow System™ designed to solve this problem.

Why it’s a problem: While Tempurpedic has put an airflow system in its mattresses to help dissipate heat, some users find that the surface still retains too much warmth. This is especially problematic for hot sleepers or those who live in warm climates. Critics say the airflow system is buried too deep in the mattress layers, and the top layer, which is temperature-sensitive, still holds onto body heat.

Conclusion: For some users, the heat retention of a Tempurpedic mattress can be a deal breaker. Those who sleep hot may want to look into additional cooling solutions like moisture-wicking sheets mattress toppers, or a mattress with cooling technology.

4. Off-Gassing

Off-gassing refers to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause a chemical smell when you first unbox a memory foam mattress. Tempurpedic mattresses, like many other synthetic foam products, can have a strong odor when first set up. This is because the materials used to construct the mattress are often petroleum-based.

Why it’s a problem: Some buyers report the smell is overwhelming and takes several days or even weeks to go away. Off-gassing can be a big issue for those with sensitivities to chemical smells or those who are concerned about the health effects of VOCs. Tempurpedic doesn’t address off-gassing on its website, so some buyers are left wondering if this is a real health concern.

Conclusion: While the smell fades away over time, it can be a big drawback for some. If you are sensitive to smells or concerned about the health effects of VOCs, you may want to consider this before buying.

5. Tempurpedic’s Price

Tempurpedic mattresses are among the most expensive on the market, and buyers often complain about the price. While the brand has built a reputation for quality, many feel the price is too high compared to other memory foam mattresses available today.

Why it’s a problem: For budget conscious buyers or those shopping on a budget Tempurpedic mattresses may be out of reach. The brand’s marketing, research and development costs contribute to the premium price tag. The higher density of foam used in Tempurpedic mattresses adds to the cost but may not be necessary for everyone.

Conclusion: While Tempurpedic mattresses are comfortable and durable the price is a barrier for many buyers. But the premium price may be justified for those who value luxury and longevity in their mattress.

6. Hard to Get Out of Bed

Another common complaint is that Tempurpedic mattresses create a “sinkhole” effect when you lie on them for too long. The memory foam conforms to your body shape and provides great support, but when you try to get out of bed the surrounding foam is often firmer and makes it hard to move.

Why it’s a problem: This can be a big issue for those with limited mobility or strength. The foam holds its shape where your body has been, so it creates a temporary dip or impression that makes it harder to push yourself up or roll out of bed. Some users describe it as “climbing out” of the mattress, which can be frustrating and uncomfortable.

Conclusion: For those who struggle with mobility or just want an easier time getting in and out of bed this could be a big deal. The temporary “sinkhole” created by the memory foam can make it hard for some users to adjust or get up especially after a long night’s sleep.

7. Hard to Turn Over

The same issue that makes it hard to get out of bed also makes it hard to turn over during the night. The body-hugging nature of memory foam creates resistance when you try to shift positions which makes it harder to move around while sleeping.

Why it’s a problem: Some users report that the effort to turn over in a Tempurpedic mattress is enough to wake them up during the night, which defeats the mattress’s purpose of reducing tossing and turning. While the foam is designed to relieve pressure and provide targeted support, the extra effort to move around can detract from a good night’s sleep for some.

Conclusion: This could be a big issue for sleepers who move around a lot during the night. The resistance from the foam can disrupt sleep and make it less suitable for those who want ease of movement in bed.

8. Feeling Trapped

A related complaint is that some users feel “trapped” in the mattress because of how the foam contours and surrounds their bodies. This feeling combines the mattress’s deep contouring and the difficulty some experience when trying to move or get out of bed.

Why it’s a problem: Feeling trapped can be uncomfortable or even claustrophobic for some sleepers. This is especially true for those who prefer a mattress with a more responsive feel that allows for easier movement. The slow rebound of memory foam can make it worse and leave you feeling stuck in one position.

Conclusion: If you prefer a more buoyant or responsive sleeping surface, a Tempurpedic mattress may not be for you. Its sinking feeling and difficulty repositioning can make it feel less free than other mattresses.

9. Not Comfortable Fast Enough

Another complaint from some users is that Tempurpedic mattresses take time to “feel comfortable.” When you first lie down, the initial feeling can be firm or even uncomfortable until the foam adjusts to your body shape.

Why it’s a problem: For those who want to feel comfortable as soon as they get into bed, the slow response of some memory foam models can be a problem. While the foam eventually conforms to the body and provides support and pressure relief, the initial firmness can be off-putting for some.

Conclusion: Tempurpedic has addressed this issue by introducing newer models that respond faster to body heat and pressure. But for those who want to feel comfortable as soon as they lie down, this can still be a problem.

10. Unpleasant Smell

Last complaint is the chemical smell or off-gassing that many Tempurpedic mattresses emit when first unpacked. The smell is due to the synthetic materials used in memory foam and while it usually dissipates within a few days to a couple of weeks some customers are more sensitive to it.

Why it’s a problem: Off-gassing can be unpleasant and may be a concern for users who are sensitive to chemical smells or worried about VOCs. While the smell goes away with time for most users, for those who are highly sensitive, the initial smell can be a problem.

Conclusion: Most users say the smell goes away in a short period of time but if you are sensitive to odors or chemical emissions this is something to consider. Some buyers air out the mattress in a well ventilated room before using it to mitigate the issue.

Tempurpedic Complaints: Customer Service and Warranty Issues

According to reviews from various platforms such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Reddit, Consumer Affairs, and TrustPilot, Tempurpedic also has complaints about customer service and warranty claims. Many customers have reported that their complaints were not handled well, with claims of unclear or unsatisfactory responses from Tempurpedic reps.

The BBB found out that 76% of complaints were about product issues and 7% were about warranty claims. Some customers had difficulty in initiating returns or making warranty claims and several were frustrated when they were denied service despite following the company’s terms.

Conclusion: Tempurpedic has warranties on their products but buyers should be aware that some customers have encountered problems when trying to resolve issues or get compensation for defective products.

FAQs About Common Tempurpedic Mattress Complaints

1. Do Tempur-Pedic mattresses sleep hot?

Yes, many users say Tempur-Pedic mattresses retain heat and feel hot at night, even with the Tempur-Pedic Airflow System™ designed to promote cooling.

2. What causes the chemical smell in Tempur-Pedic mattresses?

The smell is often referred to as off-gassing and is due to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the foam. This smell usually goes away in a few days to two weeks.

3. Are Tempur-Pedic mattresses hard to move?

Yes, Tempur-Pedic mattresses are heavier than average due to the high density memory foam and can be difficult to move, rotate or lift.

4. Do Tempur-Pedic mattresses cause back pain?

Some users experience back pain, especially if the mattress starts to sag prematurely or feels too firm or too soft, depending on individual preference.

5. Is Tempur-Pedic worth the price?

While Tempurpedic mattresses are high-quality, the price is a big turnoff for many. Some say it’s worth the investment, but others think there are similar products at a lower price.

Conclusion

Tempurpedic mattresses are considered high-quality products with great pressure relief, but they are not without flaws. Common complaints are about mattress weight, firmness fluctuation, sleeping hot, off-gassing, and the high price. Many customers also report difficulty getting out of bed, turning over, and feeling trapped in the mattress.

The company has many complaints, especially about product quality and customer reviews on various platforms are mostly negative. However, many of these complaints are subjective, and Tempurpedic has a large customer base so not all are dissatisfied.

Before buying a Tempurpedic mattress, potential buyers should weigh the pros and cons and consider the common complaints from other customers. For some, the benefits of memory foam – pressure relief and reduced motion transfer – may outweigh the drawbacks. But for others especially those who are sensitive to heat or prefer a more responsive mattress, Tempurpedic may not be the best option. Knowing these common complaints can help consumers make a more informed decision when choosing a mattress.