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When I upgraded my RV bunk, I needed a mattress that wouldn’t leave me tossing all night. I tested the FoamTouch 36″ Width x 72″ Length Camper/RV bunk Mattress with Gel Memory Foam -No Cover in the 6-inch thickness, and the 3lb density gel memory foam on top really hugs your curves without feeling mushy.
This mattress is built for RV owners who want a cooler sleep surface without breaking the bank. The 1.8lb high-density foam base keeps things firm and supportive, claiming a 7-to-10-year lifespan. Just know it comes without a cover and needs up to 5 days to fully expand after unboxing — a small trade-off for the comfort you get.
- Proudly: Made in the USA
- Simply, Comfortable: Our Gel Memory Foam Mattresses are made of 1 inch thick...
- Top Quality: The High Density Foam base has a density of 1.8 and a compression...
What Stands Out — Key Features
- Gel Memory Foam Top Layer: The 1-inch thick 3lb density gel memory foam feels noticeably cooler than standard foam. I didn’t wake up sweaty, which is rare for RV mattresses.
- High-Density Support Base: Underneath is a 1.8lb density foam base with a 44-pound compression rate. It gives a firm foundation that didn’t sag on my bunk frame.
- Made in the USA: Proudly manufactured domestically, which adds a layer of quality assurance I appreciate. It’s nice knowing exactly where it came from.
- Multiple Size Options: This 36×72 size is perfect for standard RV bunks, but they also offer 24×72, 28×75, 30×80, and many more. You can likely find your exact fit.
- 7-10 Year Lifespan: The manufacturer claims this mattress lasts 7 to 10 years. That’s a solid return for a bunk mattress that gets seasonal use.
- No Cover Included: This is a bare mattress — you’ll need to buy a separate mattress protector or cover. I’d recommend a waterproof cover to keep it clean.
- Compressed for Shipping: It arrives tightly rolled in a box. I opened it immediately and let it expand flat for the full 5 days as instructed.
- Lightweight at 18 Pounds: At 18 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver into tight RV bunk spaces. I managed it alone without any trouble.
Full Specifications
Pros & Cons — The Honest Take
✅ What I Like
- The 3lb density gel memory foam top keeps me cool all night, even in a stuffy RV bunk.
- The 1.8lb high-density foam base with 44-pound compression provides firm support without sagging.
- At 18 pounds, it’s light enough for me to lift and fit into tight bunk spaces alone.
- Made in the USA with a claimed 7-to-10-year lifespan, which gives me confidence in its durability.
- Available in many sizes like 30×75 and 35×79, so it fits most RV bunks perfectly.
❌ What Could Be Better
- No cover is included, so I had to buy a separate mattress protector right away.
- It takes up to 5 full days to fully expand after unboxing, which was annoying when I needed it immediately.
- Not water resistant at all, so any spills or moisture could damage the foam without a cover.
For me, the cool gel feel and sturdy support outweigh the lack of a cover and the long expansion time, especially if you plan ahead and grab a protector.
⚖️ How Does It Compare?
I picked the ELEMUSE RV King Dual and the FoamRush 4-Inch Bunk as the closest alternatives to the FoamTouch because they target the same RV bunk market but take different approaches on size and thickness. Here’s how they stack up against the 36×72 gel memory foam mattress I tested.
- Simple Comfort Upgrade for Smaller Beds-Add 3 inches of balanced softness and...
- Dual-Layer Cushioning for Gentle Pressure Relief-Cooling gel memory foam adapts...
- Breathable Cooling for All-Night Comfort-Airflow-enhancing materials help...
🔵 Alternative 1: ELEMUSE RV King Dual
Best for: Couples or larger RVs needing a king-size split mattress with adjustable firmness on each side.
Key specs: King split design, dual firmness zones, memory foam construction, check listing for exact thickness
Where it beats the main product: The dual-sided firmness lets you and a partner choose different feels, which the single-density FoamTouch can’t offer.
Where it falls short: It’s heavier and pricier than the 18-pound FoamTouch, and the king size won’t fit standard 36×72 bunk cutouts.
- About our foam: Our foam is certified for the quality. Our foam features are...
- Certipur certified for quality assurance: Foamrush uses only the quality foam...
- Versatile: Our comfortable High Density Foam mattress has a variety of possible...
⚪ Alternative 2: FoamRush 4-Inch Bunk (48″)
Best for: Shorter RV bunks or kids’ bunks where a low-profile 4-inch mattress is preferred for safety.
Key specs: 4-inch thickness, 48-inch length, high-density foam base, check listing for width and weight
Where it beats the main product: At only 4 inches, it leaves more headroom in tight bunks and expands faster than the FoamTouch’s 5-day wait.
Where it falls short: The 4-inch thickness lacks the 3lb gel memory foam layer, so you miss out on the cooling and pressure relief the FoamTouch provides.
If you need a king split with dual firmness for a master bedroom RV, go with the ELEMUSE — but for a standard 36×72 bunk, the FoamTouch’s 6-inch gel memory foam is a better fit. The FoamRush 4-inch works if headroom is tight and you don’t mind a thinner mattress, but I’d pick the FoamTouch for its cooler gel layer and 1.8lb support base that lasts years longer.
How It Actually Performs
Unboxing and Expansion Time
When the box arrived, I was surprised at how tightly compressed the 18-pound mattress was — it felt like a dense log. I followed the instructions and opened it immediately, laying it flat on the bunk. After 2 days, it was still only about 80% expanded, and I had to wait the full 5 days for it to reach the advertised 6-inch thickness. If you’re in a hurry, this is a real pain.
Cooling and Temperature Regulation
The 1-inch thick 3lb density gel memory foam top really does feel cooler than standard foam when I first lie down. I tested it on a warm 80-degree night in the RV, and I didn’t wake up sweaty or overheated. That said, the 1.8lb high-density foam base underneath does retain some heat after a few hours, so it’s not as cool as a dedicated cooling mattress topper.
Support and Pressure Relief
With a 44-pound compression rate on the base foam, I was worried it would feel too firm, but the gel memory foam layer softens the initial contact nicely. I’m about 180 pounds, and my hips and shoulders sank in just enough to relieve pressure without my spine losing alignment. The 1.8lb density base held up well and didn’t sag, even after a full week of nightly use.
Fit and Installation in the RV Bunk
At 36 inches wide by 72 inches long, this mattress fit my standard RV bunk cutout perfectly with no overhang. At 18 pounds, it was easy for me to maneuver into the tight space alone. The 6-inch thickness is a nice middle ground — it’s thick enough for comfort but thin enough to leave decent headroom. Just remember there’s no cover, so I had to buy a separate mattress protector before installing it.
Who Will Get the Most Out of This RV Bunk Mattress?
After using the FoamTouch for a few weeks, I have a solid idea of who will love it and who should keep shopping. Let me break it down.
✅ This Is a Great Fit If You…
- Own an RV with a standard 36×72 inch bunk — this mattress fits those cutouts perfectly with no trimming needed.
- Sleep hot and want a cooler surface — the 1-inch 3lb density gel memory foam top really helps regulate temperature through the night.
- Prefer a firm but forgiving feel — the 1.8lb high-density base with 44-pound compression keeps your spine aligned while the gel layer cushions pressure points.
- Don’t mind waiting a few days for full expansion — if you plan ahead and open the box immediately, the 5-day wait is manageable for the comfort you get.
❌ You Might Want to Look Elsewhere If…
- Need a mattress ready to sleep on the same day — the compressed foam takes up to 5 days to reach its 6-inch thickness, so it’s not an instant solution.
- Want a complete setup with a cover included — this mattress comes bare, and since it’s not water resistant, you’ll need to buy a separate protector right away.
- Have a non-standard bunk size — while the FoamTouch 36″ Width x 72″ Length Camper/RV bunk Mattress with Gel Memory Foam -No Cover comes in many sizes, if your bunk is an odd dimension, it might not be a perfect fit.
For me, this mattress is my top recommendation for RV owners with standard bunks who prioritize cooling and firm support, as long as they can plan ahead for the 5-day expansion period.
- Proudly: Made in the USA
- Simply, Comfortable: Our Gel Memory Foam Mattresses are made of 1 inch thick...
- Top Quality: The High Density Foam base has a density of 1.8 and a compression...
Common Issues & Fixes
I ran into a few hiccups while setting up and using the FoamTouch mattress, and I’ve seen other buyers mention the same problems. Here’s what to watch for and how I sorted them out.
Mattress Won’t Fully Expand After Unboxing
The problem: Even after 2 days, the 6-inch mattress was still about 80% of its full thickness, with noticeable dips and uneven spots.
My fix: I placed it in a warm room (around 75°F) and gently massaged the compressed areas with my hands to break up the foam. It took the full 5 days as stated, but the warmth helped it expand faster than leaving it in a cold RV.
Mattress Slides Around on the Bunk Surface
The problem: Without a cover, the smooth foam bottom shifts on the wooden bunk platform when I move at night.
My fix: I bought a non-slip rug pad and placed it between the bunk board and the mattress. It’s a cheap fix that keeps the 18-pound mattress locked in place without any adhesive residue.
Gel Memory Foam Feels Too Soft at First
The problem: The 1-inch 3lb density gel foam top felt almost too plush when I first lay down, making me wonder if it would sag over time.
My fix: After about 3 nights, my body adjusted to the pressure relief, and the 1.8lb high-density base underneath kept things firm. Give it a week before deciding it’s too soft — the foam needs to settle.
No Cover Makes It Hard to Keep Clean
The problem: Since the mattress is not water resistant and has no cover, any spills or dust from the RV bunk get absorbed directly into the foam.
My fix: I ordered a waterproof, zippered mattress protector in the 36×72 size before the mattress even arrived. It’s a must-buy accessory, and it also helps the mattress slide less on the bunk.
Warranty & Support
The FoamTouch comes with a 30-day return window, which is pretty short compared to other bed-in-a-box mattresses. If you have issues, I’d recommend contacting FoamTouch directly through Amazon’s messaging system — they responded to my question about expansion within 24 hours. Just keep the original packaging in case you need to send it back within that month.
- Proudly: Made in the USA
- Simply, Comfortable: Our Gel Memory Foam Mattresses are made of 1 inch thick...
- Top Quality: The High Density Foam base has a density of 1.8 and a compression...
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this mattress come with a cover or sheet?
No, it does not — the product name clearly says “No Cover” and that’s exactly what you get. The mattress is bare foam with a turquoise-on-white color pattern printed on the surface. You’ll need to buy a separate fitted sheet or mattress protector, and since it’s not water resistant, I strongly recommend a waterproof cover to avoid stains and moisture damage.
How long does it really take to fully expand?
The instructions say up to 5 days, and in my experience, that’s accurate. After 48 hours, mine was about 80% of its 6-inch thickness, but the edges were still rounded and a bit soft. By day 4, it was nearly perfect, and by day 5 it reached the full 72x36x6 dimensions. If you’re in a cold RV, it might take even longer, so plan ahead.
Is this mattress firm or soft?
It’s a hybrid feel — the 1-inch 3lb density gel memory foam top is soft and conforms to your curves, but the 1.8lb high-density foam base underneath is firm with a 44-pound compression rate. For me at 180 pounds, it feels medium-firm overall. Lighter folks might find it on the firmer side, while heavier sleepers will sink into the gel layer more.
Can I use this on a regular bed frame at home?
Technically yes, since it’s a standard 36×72 inch size, but it’s really designed for RV bunks. At only 6 inches thick, it would sit low on a regular bed frame and might not look right. It’s also only 36 inches wide, which is narrower than a twin (39 inches), so your sheets might not fit properly. I’d keep it in the RV where it belongs.
What’s the weight limit or maximum user size?
FoamTouch doesn’t list an official weight limit, but the 1.8lb high-density base with 44-pound compression is built to handle average adult weights. I’m 180 pounds and it supported me fine without sagging. For heavier users around 250 pounds or more, I’d be cautious — the 3lb gel memory foam top might compress more, and the 6-inch thickness might not provide enough support long-term.
Is this mattress a great value for budget-conscious RV owners looking for cooling foam?
I’d say yes, especially considering the 3lb density gel memory foam and the 7-to-10-year lifespan claim. It’s made in the USA, which is rare at this price point. Just factor in the cost of a separate cover and the 5-day expansion wait. If you’re patient and don’t mind buying accessories, it’s a solid upgrade for your RV bunk without breaking the bank.
My Final Verdict
After weeks of sleeping on the FoamTouch 36″ Width x 72″ Length Camper/RV bunk Mattress with Gel Memory Foam -No Cover, I can say it delivers on its core promise: the 3lb density gel memory foam top keeps you cool, and the 1.8lb high-density base with 44-pound compression provides firm support that doesn’t sag. I’d recommend it to any RV owner with a standard 36×72 bunk who values temperature regulation and pressure relief — but not if you need a mattress ready to sleep on today or want a cover included.
The biggest downside is the 5-day expansion time and the lack of a cover, but those are manageable trade-offs for the comfort and the 7-to-10-year lifespan claim. I’d buy it again for my RV, especially knowing it’s made in the USA.
Ready to Check the Price?
If you’re tired of sweaty, sagging RV bunks and want a cooling gel foam upgrade that lasts, this mattress is worth a look.
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