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Memory foam mattresses are popular among sleepers looking for beds that are soft, cushiony, and contouring. Theyโre also great picks for folks dealing with pain or discomfort, light sleepers dealing with a rowdy partner, or shoppers seeking affordable yet quality beds. If any of that sounds like it could be the best mattress for you, keep reading.
Over the past decade-plus, our team of mattress experts and certified sleep science coaches has helped over 145,000 people find their favorite mattress โ including nearly 12,000 satisfied customers in 2025. To find the best memory foam mattresses, we painstakingly combed through the 132 memory foam mattresses weโve tested over this time period. We also worked with Dr. Raj Dasgupta, board-certified in sleep medicine, and our medical product tester and physical therapist, Dr. Joe Tedesco, to ensure youโre getting the most informed opinion.
Sleepopolisโ Best In Rest โ Memory Foam
The Nectar is my pick for best memory foam mattress due to its contouring yet supportive foam. Sleepers should experience some moderate pressure relief while also receiving enough support to keep their spine neutrally aligned. I think this is an especially comfortable bed for back sleepers and stomach sleepers, which isnโt always the case with memory foam mattresses.
Best Memory Foam Mattresses of 2026
- Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress โ Best Overall Memory Foam Mattress
- Helix Midnight Mattress โ Best Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress for Couples
- Leesa Original Mattress โ Best Memory Foam Mattress for Side Sleepers
- DreamCloud Memory Foam โ Best Luxury Memory Foam Mattress
- WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress โ Best Cooling Memory Foam Mattress
- Contour5 โ Best Memory Foam Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Bear Original Mattress โ Best Memory Foam Mattress for Back Pain
- Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress โ Best Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress for Pressure Relief
- Nolah Signature 12โณ Mattress โ Best Memory Foam Mattress for Combination Sleepers
- Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress โ Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress
Top Deals
- Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress โ Save Up to 50% on Mattresses & 66% on Bundles
- Helix Midnight Mattress โ 20% Off Sitewide with Code SPRING20
- Leesa Original Mattress โ 25% Off Mattresses, Bedding, and Furniture with Code TAX25
- DreamCloud Memory Foam โ Up to 60% Off Mattresses + 66% Off Bundles
- WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress โ 30% Off All Mattresses
How We Selected the Best Memory Foam Mattresses
โFoam beds are some of the best mattresses for pressure relief,โ says Dr. Raj Dasgupta. โThese beds offer cushioning and contouring to sensitive joints that would otherwise dig into the mattress, which is essential for staving off pain.โ
Since pressure relief is essential to many sleepersโ comfort, we prioritized it when searching for the best foam mattresses. Our pressure relief tests tackle how a mattress feels for back and side sleepers of all sizes, with the final score coming from our testersโ ratings for each position. Anything above 4/5 is considered better than average.
We also have foam mattresses that may work for certain sleepers who donโt need as much pressure relief, such as stomach sleepers. Many mattresses that feel too firm for our lightweight and average-weight testers are often a hit with our heavyweight testers. Weโll be sure to explain in-depth who will glean the most pressure relief on each mattress we recommend.
Sleeping on a mattress that doesnโt isolate motion means youโll feel every twitch and shift your partner makes in the night. Light sleepers who share the bed will likely want to prioritize it. Likewise, Dr. Dasgupta asserts that โexcellent motion isolation in a mattress usually signals the inclusion of high-quality, dense foams.โ
Slow-moving memory foam is usually the optimal material for absorbing motion, so weโve found that all-foam beds tend to excel in this area. We test every mattress alongside a partner to get firsthand experience of how soundly youโll sleep on it.
For reference, our average motion isolation score is about 4 out of 5, so anything higher is considered an excellent option for couples.
Ever sit on the edge of your bed and feel like youโre sinking? Or do you sleep near the edge and hate slowly slipping off throughout the night? Chances are, youโre dealing with a mattress with poor edge support.
Most foam mattresses tend to lag behind in this category, so we aimed to include beds that we thought performed decently in this area. We rated a mattress highly if it had a reinforced edge or was a hybrid design, both of which tend to provide the best edge support on a memory foam mattress. Iโd say that anything above 3.5 out of 5 is pretty admirable for an all-foam bed.
Weโve developed a rigorous 13-point testing methodology that tells us how each mattress performs and who it might be a good fit for. All of the beds on this list have been evaluated for pressure relief, cooling capabilities, responsiveness, edge support, and much more.
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has tested more than 500 mattresses over the last decade, allowing us to guide more than 145,000 people to the best mattress for them. Not only do we use and evaluate these products ourselves, but we also consult with Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, whoโs quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine, to ensure we keep up to date with the latest in sleep science and medicine.
Additionally, Dr. Joe Tedesco, DPT, OCS, ATC, CSCS, comes into our studio to personally test mattresses and give a medical perspective on each product, and sleep and nutrition experts such as Lauren Panoff, MPH, RD, regularly verify our articles.
Disclaimer: Please note that the content in this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or serve as a substitute for seeing a medical professional regarding any sleep problems you may have. Please see your doctor regarding any urgent medical issues.
What I Looked For in the Best Memory Foam Mattresses
I and my team โ full of mattress experts and certified sleep science coaches โ have specifically tested 132 memory foam beds over the years with a focus on cooling, pressure relief, edge support, and responsiveness. However, there are other important factors that lend to a bedโs relative comfort level.
- Motion isolation: If you sleep with a partner, or a pet, itโs important that your mattress absorbs movement well so youโre not woken up by tossing and turning. We score this category using a few tests, and the mattresses that we rate highly here allow minimal movement.
- Price: Memory foam mattresses in a queen size can range in price from $700 to $2,000, and weโve made sure to provide options at all budgets.
- Firmness: We rate firmness on a 1 to 10 scale, and most memory foam mattresses should fall between 6 and 7.
Some of the mattresses on our best list are hybrids, which combine memory foam with pocketed coils. While hybrid beds are not technically all-foam, my recommendations use memory foam as a primary material in their construction and offer a similar feel to traditional memory foam beds.
Need help finding the right mattress?
Compare the Best Memory Foam Mattresses
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| Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress | Helix Midnight Mattress | Leesa Original Mattress | DreamCloud Memory Foam | WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress | Contour5 | Bear Original Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress | Nolah Signature 12โณ Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-Firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-Firm: 6.5/10 | Soft: 5.5/10 | Firm: 7.5/10 | Firm: 7.5/10 | Medium-Firm: 6.5/10 | Firm: 7/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Soft: 5.5/10 | Multiple Firmness Options |
| Material | Foam | Hybrid | Foam | Foam | Foam | Foam | Foam | Hybrid | Foam | Foam |
| Cooling | โ | โ | โ | โ | โ | โ | โ | โ | ||
| Best For |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Couples
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Side Sleepers,
Back Sleepers, Couples |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Seniors
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Couples
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Back Sleepers,
Hot Sleepers |
Back Sleepers,
Back Pain, Couples |
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Couples
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Side Sleepers,
Back Pain |
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors
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Best Memory Foam Mattress Video Review
Nectar โ Best Overall Memory Foam Mattress
The Nectar delivers a balance of comfort and support: itโs definitely contouring, but still provides a firm enough foundation for most light to average weight sleepers, especially if they sleep on their back or stomach. Plus, a lengthy trial period, lifetime warranty, and affordable price make the Nectar a reassuring choice for many. Watch our video review to learn more.
What our tester says:
โI think back sleepers would be especially happy on this bed. Theyโll get plenty of support from the firm memory foam in the Nectar Classic, which should translate to great pressure relief and a good nightโs sleep. Hot sleepers who have to have a memory foam mattress should also have no trouble at all falling asleep on this bed.โ โ Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Youโd be hard-pressed to find a better memory foam mattress than the Nectar Classic. The brandโs flagship model is my top pick and has earned 4s or higher for its cooling, motion isolation, and edge support. This bed-in-a-box delivers high quality at an affordable price, too; a queen-size mattress usually costs around $1,500, and the brand often offers discounts of up to 50 percent during sales.
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
The memory foam version of the Nectar does a great job of dampening motion.
Cooling: 4.5/5
After lying on it for 5 minutes, the temperature of the Nectar only increased by 5.4 degrees.
Response: 4/5
Despite being an all-foam bed, the Nectar is surprisingly easy to change positions on.
Edge Support: 4/5
There was more sinkage along the edge while sitting on it, but one could lie on it without falling off.
Pressure Relief: 3.8/5
The Nectar Classic felt great on our testersโ backs, but they noticed some pressure buildup on their sides.
Firmness: 6.5/10
The Nectar Classic is a medium-firm memory foam mattress.
Testing out the Nectar Classic was a dream. When I lay down in the back-sleeping position, I sank into the top layer just enough to feel cradled while the supportive base kept my spine aligned. It came in at a 7 out of 10 on our firmness scale, which is on the firmer side for a foam mattress. The feel up top was still cushioning and slow-moving. The Nectar Classic was just as comfortable on my side. The memory foam struck a nice balance of softness and support, contouring my body and cradling my joints. I was also able to move around easily, which tells me that the Nectar is one of the best mattresses for combination sleepers who shift positions throughout the night.
My colleague said she liked the balance of lumbar support and pressure relief, which helped alleviate her back pain. โThis mattress offers the perfect combination of support and comfort, making it a great choice for anyone with back issues,โ our tester explains. Dr. Joe Tedesco, chief medical product tester, agreed, saying, โThis mattress brings firmer support that will keep the spine aligned, which is crucial for sleepers with back pain.
Good news for couples: The Nectar Classic hit high marks in our testing in edge support โ scoring 4 out of 5 โ and excellent temperature regulation โ 4.5 out of 5. This means you and your partner can get comfortable across the entire surface without feeling like youโre going to fall off. You also wonโt overheat if you snuggle up together.
For a closer look at my experience with the Nectar Classic and a deeper dive into its features, check out our full Nectar mattress review. If youโre looking for an alternative that has a softer feel, check out the Nectar Premier.
Helix Midnight โ Best Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress for Couples
The Helix Midnight is amongst Helixโs line of six standard mattresses. Itโs known for its more balanced feel, allowing it to accommodate a wide range of sleepers. We also recommend it for couples, as it scored well on our motion isolation, responsiveness, edge support, and cooling tests. For a plusher and more cooling version of this mattress, see the Helix Midnight Luxe. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
โI would recommend this mattress for side or back sleepers because itโs supportive, without putting pressure on your joints.โ โ Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
After trying the Helix Midnight, I can confidently say it delivers where it matters most for folks who share their bed with a partner and want a memory foam mattress โ namely, in edge support and motion isolation. It earned a 4.4 and 4 out of 5 in these categories, respectively, making it my pick for the best mattress for couples in this roundup.
Motion Isolation: 4/5
Aside from gentle movements, our testers could not detect much motion transfer.
Cooling: 3/5
During testing, we found that the Midnight feels neutral rather than cool to the touch.
Response: 4/5
While the Helix has layers of soft foam, its bouncy innerspring coils make it easy to maneuver.
Edge Support: 4.4/5
Our testers felt super secure when lying near the edge of the Midnight in every sleeping position.
Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
The Helix Midnight effectively relieves pressure overall, despite our average-weight tester detecting slight back tension.
Firmness: 6.5/10
The plush foam layers and reinforced innerspring coils give the Helix Midnight a true medium-firm feel.
When youโre sharing a bed with someone, you want to make sure both partners have ample space to move around without sacrificing support, and the Helix Midnight provides just that. โI felt super secure when lying near the edge of the bed in all three sleeping positions,โ said expert tester Riley Otis. โThe edges felt just as secure as the center of the bed, and I never felt at risk of falling off.โ โI felt stable and confident, even at the edge,โ explains one of our expert mattress testers who tested the Helix Midnight with me.
Taking a look at the bedโs motion isolation, Riley witnessed admirable results in both our water and partner tests. โThe ripples were very gentle,โ she said after moving around next to our clear tub. She did notice a bit more movement in the partner test. โI think very light sleepers prone to waking up will be disturbed, but sound sleepers should be able to sleep through it,โ she explained.
However, the Helix Midnight faltered in our cooling test. When testing was complete, Riley gave it a 3 out of 5 rating in this area. After lying on the bed for five minutes, she used her thermal gun to measure the surface temperature and found it had heated up more than 10 degrees. โA typical sleeper should be able to stay cool all night, but couples should remember that two bodies heat up quicker than just one,โ she warned. For a cooler bed, I recommend the Helix Midnight Luxe, the upgraded version of this model.
If youโre interested in hearing more about my experience with the Helix Midnight and exploring its features in greater detail, check out our full Helix Midnight mattress review.
Leesa โ Best Memory Foam Mattress for Side Sleepers
While itโs an all-foam mattress on the softer end of the firmness scale, the Leesa should still offer enough support for a neutral spinal alignment, which is good news for back sleepers. Some side sleepers will also get the contouring they need at the shoulders and hips. Learn more in our Leesa video review.
What our tester says:
โI think the Leesa is a great choice for back sleepers and should give them the comfort and support they desire. It could also work for some combination sleepers, as itโs bouncy enough to easily move around on.โ โ Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
A memory foam mattress can often be one of the best mattresses for side sleepers, with soft layers that cradle the shoulders and hips (the parts of the body where side sleepers feel the most pressure). At the same time, you want to make sure that the foams are strong enough to give you the right amount of spinal support. This perfectly describes the Leesa Original mattress. It earned a 4.2 rating for side-sleeping pressure relief, helping bolster the bedโs 4.4 overall pressure-relief rating.
Motion Isolation: 4/5
Thanks to its excellent motion-dampening, couples shouldnโt be able to detect each other moving on the Leesa Original.
Cooling: 5/5
The temperature of the Leesa increased by 3.8 degrees after lying on it for 5 minutes, indicating excellent cooling.
Response: 5/5
The Leesa provides the stability and firmness combination sleepers need to switch positions easily.
Edge Support: 4.4/5
The dense foam prevented us from falling while lying on the perimeter, but we noticed some sinkage while sitting.
Pressure Relief: 4.4/5
The Leesa Originalโs supportive yet contouring memory foam relieves pressure in all positions.
Firmness: 7/10
The Leesaโs supportive foam construction gives it a slightly firmer-than-average feel.
The Leesa Original came in at a 7 out of 10 on our firmness scale, which is a touch firmer than we would typically recommend for side sleepers, but it was a hit with our testers across the board. It was particularly beloved by our heavyweight tester Caine Wilkes: โFor a foam mattress, I feel really supported, and Iโm not sinking in too much. There arenโt any points of pressure.โ
Our chief medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco, also thought the mattress could work for side sleepers dealing with hip or shoulder pain, particularly the former. โI think that side sleepers will appreciate the cradling and balanced support,โ he said. โMy hips felt great on this mattress when I was on my side.โ
Our pressure maps were almost entirely blue for all of our back sleepers. This means if you switch between your side and back, you should feel comfortable in both positions. Our lightweight tester for this bed, Riley Otis, also found the mattress was firm enough for stomach sleeping, saying, โI feel very comfortable in this position because there is hardly any sinkage.โ
As a bonus, the Leesa Mattress is also quite responsive, scoring perfectly in this category. This means sexually active couples and combination sleepers might also find their mattress match in this bed. It also earned another perfect rating for temperature regulation, so hot sleepers should also sleep cool on this mattress. Learn more in our full Leesa mattress review. The lifted feel might not be for everyone. If you like to sink further into your mattress, I recommend the Nectar, which has a more traditional memory foam feel.
DreamCloud Memory Foam โ Best Luxury Memory Foam Mattress
Even though itโs an all-foam mattress, we found the DreamCloud Memory Foam mattress to be firm, supportive, and responsive. This makes it the rare foam bed thatโs sturdy and bouncy enough for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combo sleepers alike. Learn more in our DreamCloud Memory Foam video review.
What our tester says:
โI think back sleepers should find a lot to love in the DreamCloud Memory Foam mattress. Itโs supportive and sturdy, but still offers some comfort from the quilted cover. Many stomach sleepers should also enjoy how the firm foams in this bed keep their hips propped up for spinal alignment.โ โ Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
DreamCloud is best known for the Classic, its flagship high-end hybrid mattress, but the brand also offers a memory foam version that delivers a similar feel without the coils. With its premium materials and thoughtful design, including great responsiveness and pressure relief, I gave it the title of best luxury mattress in this roundup.
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Even when someone got in and out of bed, our tester couldnโt really feel it.
Cooling: 4/5
Our tester never noticed the mattress heating up during our cooling test.
Response: 4.5/5
For an all-foam bed, the DreamCloud is pretty responsive, making it easier to move around on.
Edge Support: 4.2/5
The edges of the DreamCloud Memory Foam only slightly dipped when we sat on them.
Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
Both side and back sleepers should glean plenty of pressure relief from this bed, though the latter group will likely feel more comfortable overall.
Firmness: 7/10
The DreamCloud Memory Foam feels a little firmer than true medium-firm.
It earned an impressive 4.3 rating for overall pressure relief, alongside high marks for motion isolation (4.7) and responsiveness (4.5). And the best news? Though it feels luxurious, it wonโt break the bank. You can typically get a queen-size DreamCloud memory foam mattress for around $650, thanks to frequent sales and discounts.
We rated the DreamCloud a 7 out of 10 on our firmness scale, thanks to the supportive base we felt beneath the cushier top foam layers. This made it the perfect mattress for back sleeping. โIโm not feeling any pressure building anywhere, and thereโs some great cushioning along my entire body, especially in my lower lumbar region,โ said lightweight tester Riley Otis. โMy spine feels super straight and aligned, so I think Iโd be able to stay here for prolonged periods of time.โ
Dr. Joe Tedesco, physical therapist and chief medical product tester, also thought this would be a good mattress for back pain, especially if you sleep in this position. โMy spine is in a beautiful straight line with no pressure building,โ he said. โThereโs no excessive sinkage anywhere on the body.โ
Another feature that impressed me is DreamCloudโs edge support, which earned an impressive 4.2 out of 5 during testing. Typically, foam mattresses can lack stability near the edges, but the DreamCloud Memory Foam performed exceptionally well in this area, offering solid support across the entire surface of the bed. We were able to lie close to the edge without feeling like we might fall off.
The DreamCloud Memory Foam also performed pretty well in our cooling tests. Riley noted that while the mattress didnโt feel particularly cool to the touch, it never overheated. โIt had more of a temperature-neutral feel, which is all fine and dandy, but very hot sleepers may want a blast of initial cooling from their mattress cover,โ she said. If that sounds like you, check out the Leesa Original instead.
For a closer look at how the DreamCloud Memory Foam performed and a detailed exploration of its features, check out our full DreamCloud Memory Foam mattress review.
WinkBeds GravityLux โ Best Cooling Memory Foam Mattress
The WinkBeds Gravity Lux stands out for being made entirely of foam, yet still very firm and supportive (note: it comes in three different firmness levels and we tested the Firm). Back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and heavy sleepers, should all get the support they need. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
โThe Saatva Youth is a high-quality mattress for growing children. If youโre looking for a new mattress for your child, Iโd really recommend checking it out.โ โ Madison Schaper, former staff writer
If you often go to bed feeling toasty and wake up sweaty, youโre not alone. In fact, our bodies are hardwired for overheating at night. And if you want the cozy comfort of memory foam without worrying about staying cool, allow me to introduce the WinkBed GravityLux, one of the best cooling mattresses in the memory foam category; our sleep experts rated it a 4 out of 5 for cooling.
Motion Isolation: 4.3/5
You should only barely feel your partnerโs movements on the GravityLux.
Cooling: 4/5
The mattress felt comfortably temperature-neutral throughout our testing.
Response: 4/5
The GravityLux is fairly easy to move around on, especially for a foam mattress.
Edge Support: 4.6/5
We only noticed slight sinkage when seated at the edge of this mattress.
Pressure Relief: 3.8/5
Back sleepers will feel the most pressure relief on this bed.
Firmness: 7/10
The GravityLux has a slightly firmer feel, but still feels close to medium-firm.
Although memory foam has a reputation for trapping heat, this mattress is packed with cooling technology that assists with temperature regulation, including a breathable Tencel cover quilted with gel-infused foam. Gel-infused foam absorbs and disperses body heat to prevent the foam from becoming too warm while you sleep. When I began testing this mattress, I could immediately feel this technology working its magic.
โAs someone who tends to sleep hot, I really appreciate how cooling this mattress is,โ said one of my fellow mattress testers. โIt sleeps much cooler than a traditional memory foam mattress, which is a huge plus for me.โ
In terms of which sleeper types will love this mattress, back sleepers reign supreme. This bed is available in three firmness options, but the Medium is the best mid-range option, providing both softness and supportโperfect for back sleepers. โIt feels a bit firm, but itโs got a lot of cushioning,โ said our average-weight tester.
Side sleepers will probably want to opt for the softest option, as our testers didnโt get the pressure relief they needed in this position. If you like a slightly firmer option that works for side sleepers, I recommend the Aurora Luxe.
Finally, I also think this mattress could be a nice choice for couples. It has solid motion isolation, earning a 4.3 in this category. Our tester only felt her partnerโs movements when she was switching positions right beside her. The mattress also earned a 4.6 out of 5 for edge support; our testers found it offered exceptional support while lying down, which gives couples more surface area toward the perimeter of the mattress. For more about this mattress, read our full WinkBeds GravityLux mattress review.
Saatva Contour5 โ Best Memory Foam Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
Saatvaโs Contour5 is the brandโs newest ultra-premium memory foam bed, which they claim is better than Tempurpedic. Compared to the brandโs previous all-foam bed, the Contour5 is made with more luxurious features including ultra-premium memory foam, cooling and support technology. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
โMost average weight back sleepers should have a great experience sleeping on the Saatva Contour5. My colleague, a back sleeper who experiences chronic back pain, noted that she felt fantastic pressure relief in her lower lumbar area while testing this mattress.โ โ Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Memory foam mattresses are plush, but the best mattresses for stomach sleepers are usually a little firmer to help keep their spines in a healthy position. Thankfully, there is one all-foam bed that succeeds where many others fail: the Saatva Contour5. We gave this bed 4.5 ratings for edge support, pressure relief, and cooling, and a perfect 5 for responsiveness.
Motion Isolation: 4/5
The was just a little bit of movement during our ripple test.
Cooling: 4.5/5
The foams on this mattress feel airy and breathable, making it a good mattress for hot sleepers.
Response: 5/5
It was easy for our tester to switch sleeping positions, due to the responsiveness of the foam.
Edge Support: 4.5/5
The mattress didnโt sink very much in our seated test.
Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
There was an admirable amount of pressure relief in all three sleeping positions, even the stomach.
Firmness: 6.5/10
The Contour5 is available in Medium and Firm iterations. The Medium has a true medium-firm feel.
The Saatva Contour5 comes in two firmness options: Medium and Firm. We tested the Medium model, which we found to have a true medium-firm feel. We gave it a 6.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale โ right in line with the industry standard for medium-firm beds. I recommend that stomach sleepers opt for at least a medium-firm mattress (firmer can also work), so this was good to see.
I also think this bed will work well for back sleepers. My colleague, a back sleeper with chronic back pain, said, โI felt amazing pressure relief in my lower back while testing this mattress. It really helped soothe my lumbar area and made me feel more supported.โ
Next, we tested the Contour5โs responsiveness, which refers to how quickly a mattress returns to its original shape after pressure is removed. This is important for combination sleepers who tend to gravitate toward their stomach, but may need extra help switching onto their side or back. After rolling around on this mattress, we found it was really easy to move between positions despite the bed not having as much bounce as a hybrid mattress.
Speaking of movement, another advantage of the Saatva Contour5 is its strong edge support. The firm base makes this bed super stable, meaning we could spread out and lie near the edges without feeling prone to rolling off the mattress. This is particularly helpful for stomach sleepers, who often need more surface area to spread out comfortably without feeling the bed sag beneath their weight.
The one downside to this bed is that itโs pretty expensive. If youโre after a solid foam mattress without the luxury price tag, might I recommend the Bear Original instead? But to get a more detailed look at my experience with this mattress and explore its features in-depth, be sure to check out our full Saatva Contour5 mattress review.
Bear Original โ Best Memory Foam Mattress for Back Pain
Even though itโs made entirely of foam, the Bear has a firm, supportive feel that should be sturdy enough for back sleepers and stomach sleepers alike. Additionally, combination sleepers should be able to easily move around on its surface. You can also pay extra for a Celliant cover that may help with cooling and muscle recovery. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
โI found the double poly foam construction produced a firm, supportive feel. Though youโre likely to sink into its top layer of memory foam, this sinkage is somewhat curbed by the taut poly foam transition layer. This means most folks are going to be positioned more โon topโ of the structure than โinโ it.โ โ Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester
Sleepers with back pain need to be careful when buying a memory foam mattress. On one hand, itโs tempting to go with something extra-soft that will contour the lumbar region. On the other hand, a mattress thatโs too plush may not give you the proper support for a neutral spinal alignment. Fortunately, the all-foam construction of the Bear Original strikes a solid balance of support and pressure relief, earning the title of best mattress for back pain on this roundup.
โI love the support of this mattress and think it would be great for people with back pain,โ said Dr. Joe Tedesco after trying out the mattress. He gave it a 4.5-out-of-5 rating for back pain, and also dubbed it โorthopedically friendly to the spine.โ
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Like many other memory foam models, the Bear Original has excellent motion isolation.
Cooling: 4.5/5
Our testers found that the surface of the Bear Original stayed cool and comfortable.
Response: 4/5
The Bear Original is surprisingly easy to move around on despite not having any springs in it.
Edge Support: 4.2/5
Sleepers should be able to lie along the perimeter of the mattress without feeling unsteady or falling off.
Pressure Relief: 3.2/5
The Bear Original excels at relieving pressure for back sleepers but might be too firm for some side sleepers.
Firmness: 7/10
The Bear Original is a touch firmer than the industry standard of medium-firm (6.5 out of 10).
The Bear Original has a more โon topโ feel that best suited back and stomach sleeping. Lightweight tester Riley Otis enjoyed the mattress in each of these positions. โI felt comfortable sleeping on my back and could feel the firm support lifting my hips in line with my shoulders,โ she explained. โI also really liked stomach sleeping on the Bear Original because of the lack of sinkage.โ
The firmer feel of this mattress also yields some robust edge support. Riley did notice a bit of sinkage when seated on the edge, but lying down felt relatively seamless. โI didnโt feel unstable or like I was about to fall off,โ she said. โI felt secure overall, and only noticed a bit more sinkage while I rested on my side, likely because of the uneven weight distribution.โ
Couples should also appreciate the Bear Originalโs top-notch motion isolation, which earned a 4.7 rating. โI was impressed by the motion isolation on this mattress,โ Riley said after the couples test. โI could detect a very slight disturbance when my colleague got in the bed and switched positions. However, I didnโt feel movement on my side of the bed โ I could just tell someone applied pressure to the other side of the bed.โ She also couldnโt feel whenever her partner got out of bed.
One other interesting thing to note about Bear is, as a brand, it caters to athletes and sleepers with active lifestyles. Thatโs why, for an extra charge, you can outfit your mattress with a cooling cover made of Celliant โ a material designed to absorb body heat and redirect it back to you as energy, which can help with blood flow and recovery. While we havenโt confirmed these properties ourselves, there are several clinical trials out there that have, though we should note theyโve been sponsored by the company, so take the results with a grain of salt.
If youโre after something better-suited to side sleepers, Iโd recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid. Note that this is a hybrid mattress, but you can also get that swanky Celliant cover add-on.
Check out our full Bear mattress review for more info about the Original.
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe โ Best Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress for Pressure Relief
The Brookyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress is one of Brooklyn Beddingโs more high-end mattresses. Itโs got a ton of cooling features in it that can help hot sleepers sleep cool all night. Itโs also available in three different firmnesses, so it can accommodate all of the sleeping positions. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
โFirst and foremost, Iโd recommend this mattress to hot sleepers. This bed sleeps nice and cool thanks to special phase change technology and gel infusions. The Aurora Luxe is also a nice pick for back sleepers. This mattress in the Medium model is medium-soft, so it should contour the hips while also lifting them into alignment.โ โ Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
When looking for the best memory foam mattress for pressure relief, I focused on finding a bed with a soft yet supportive feel. I ended up choosing the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe, a hybrid mattress that features a thick memory foam pillow top. It earned a 4.5 for pressure relief overall, with a 4-out-of-5 rating for side sleepers and a 5-out-of-5 for back sleepers, respectively.
Motion Isolation: 3.8/5
We noticed minor movements from the water during the ripple test.
Cooling: 4/5
The temperature rose by 7.1 degrees during our 5-minute cooling test.
Response: 4/5
Our tester found it very easy to move around on this bed and awarded it a strong responsiveness score.
Edge Support: 4/5
The edges were quite sturdy on the Aurora Luxe.
Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
Our pressure map readings only showed significant pressure buildup for lightweight side sleepers, but it there was little pressure for any back sleepers.
Firmness: 7/10
The construction of the Aurora Luxe resulted in a firm feel.
This bed comes in Soft, Medium, and Firm models, and we tested the Medium model. It falls at a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, making it a slightly firmer mattress. The Firm model will likely be extra-firm, while the Soft model should hew closer to true medium or medium-soft.
Among our testers, back sleeping was the preferred position. โI think this mattress is an excellent choice for back sleepers,โ said lightweight tester Riley Otis. โIt has the right level of firmness to keep the spine lifted and properly aligned, while still offering plenty of softness to cushion the upper back. I also felt some nice contouring through the lower back, which helped support that area without feeling forced.โ
Riley also gave it a 4 out of 5 for cooling because of its cool-to-the-touch cover and gel- and copper-infused foam layers. Gel absorbs and disperses heat, while copper helps with heat conductivity to keep the surface cooler throughout the night. Meanwhile, the breathable, pocketed coils in its base layer enhance airflow, creating a cooler sleep environment. After resting on the mattress for a few minutes, Riley said, โI never felt hot or uncomfortable, and the temperature regulation felt consistent.โ
For those with mobility issues, this bed offers excellent edge support; Riley noticed only a bit of sinkage while seated at the perimeter. Lying down, she felt comfortably held within the mattress. โI was able to get right up to the side without feeling any tilt or instability,โ she said. โIt stayed consistently supportive, and I never felt the need to shift inward to feel more secure.โ
The Aurora Luxe does contain coils, which we believe affected its overall performance in our motion isolation tests. Riley dubbed it โnot bad overall, but not the most isolating either.โ She noticed some more aggressive rippling in our water test, particularly when she switched positions on the mattress. With another tester in the bed, she said, โI picked up on most of my partnerโs movement when they rolled in my direction, which caused a bit of jostling.โ If youโre after better motion isolation, I suggest you check out the Nolah Signature.
Want to know a bit more about this mattress? Head on over to our full Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress review.
Nolah Signature โ Best Memory Foam Mattress for Combination Sleepers
If youโre looking for a soft yet supportive foam option, the Nolah Signature should be a good fit. Itโs supportive enough for back sleepers, while also providing enough contouring for side sleepers, especially at the shoulders and hips where the put the most pressure while sleeping. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
โI think the Nolah Signature is a great choice for a lot of back and side sleepers. The sinkage this mattress provides should be a nice match for these sleepers and offer the pressure relief they need.โ โ Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
Sleepers who switch positions throughout the night often have to contend with softer, slow-moving beds that leave them feeling โstuckโ as they try to shift around. Most foam mattresses arenโt very bouncy โ it just isnโt in the materialโs nature. Enter the Nolah Signature. This surprisingly firm mattress is also responsive, earning a perfect 5-out-of-5 rating in this category and making it the ideal memory foam mattress for combination sleepers.
โThe mattress is very flat and feels like I am rolling on a thick gym mat,โ said our in-house tester. โItโs extremely easy to switch positions on it.โ
Motion Isolation: 4.3/5
In our water test, we noticed virtually no rippling or jostling from the container, meaning light sleepers should experience little disturbance on their side of the bed.
Cooling: 4/5
The mattress felt a little warm to our tester, but most sleepers shouldnโt overheat.
Response: 5/5
Especially for a foam bed, the Signature is extremely responsive.
Edge Support: 4.8/5
The edges of the Nolah Signature barely buckled under our weight.
Pressure Relief: 3.3/5
The firmer feel of the Nolah Signature doesnโt offer much sinkage, leading to a lower pressure relief rating.
Firmness: 8.5/10
The Nolah Signature feels very firm.
The Nolah Signature came in at a very firm 8.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale. It ultimately provides a very supportive, lifted feel. You wonโt sink very far into this mattress, so itโs likely a better choice for heavyweight sleepers or stomach sleepers who find themselves โbottoming outโ on their bedโs uncomfortable support layers.
This firmness does come in handy when it comes to edge support. The mattress earned a near-perfect score in this category, a 4.8. The edges barely buckled in both our seated and weighted edge support tests, holding their shape. โI felt so secure, it didnโt feel like I was lying at the edge of the bed,โ our in-house tester added as she rested on her side near the perimeter.
The Signature also isolates motion well despite its more responsive feel. Usually, weโd expect motion to travel across the surface on responsive mattresses, but our tester remained largely undisturbed beside her partner. โIโm not feeling much movement, purely because I think this mattress is so firm,โ she explained.
However, I wouldnโt recommend this mattress for lightweight side sleepers or those with sensitive joints. We didnโt find much pressure relief on this mattress (as to be expected), so if thatโs what youโre after, I suggest the Nolah Evolution instead.
Read more in our full Nolah Signature mattress review.
Plank Firm โ Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress
The Plank Firm more than lives up to its name with its ultra-sturdy foams and supportive feel. While this bed certainly isnโt for everyone, it should be an ideal fit for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combination sleepers who want to feel more on top of their mattress than in it. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
โI think the Plank Firm is one of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers. Both sides of the mattress, the firm side and extra firm side, should give these sleepers the support they need to keep their hips in line with their shoulders. Back sleepers who like a firmer feel should also be happy on the firm side of the Plank.โ โ Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
The Plank Firm โ created by Brooklyn Bedding โ bucks the trend of memory foam being doughy, pillowy, and soft by being exceptionally firm. After sleeping on it, we found it hard to believe it had ever been pliable enough to be rolled into a tube-like shape and placed in a box.
Reviewing the Plank Firm was a bit different from other beds in that itโs flippable, with both a firm side and an extra-firm side. Our testers felt a tiny bit of cushioning on the Firm side, which I rated at 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale. On the extra-firm side, it came in at a whopping 9 out of 10. My colleague noted, โThe extra-firm side of this mattress is definitely one of the firmest Iโve tested โ but itโs surprisingly comfortable to sleep on.โ
(Note: the below imaging scores are for the extra-firm side of the bed.)
Motion Isolation: 4.3/5
The extra-firm side of the mattress performed well in both our motion isolation tests.
Cooling: 4.5/5
Our testers thought the Plank Firm felt temperature-neutral overall.
Response: 5/5
Our testers found it was relatively seamless to move around on the bedโs firm, springy surface.
Edge Support: 4.4/5
The edges of the Plank only sagged when we put our full weight on the edge of the mattress in our seated test.
Pressure Relief: 3/5
The firmness of this bed doesnโt offer much in the way of pressure relief, whether you choose the firm or extra-firm side.
Firmness: 7-9/10
The Plank Firm is a flippable mattress that features both a firm side and an extra-firm side.
Because the Plank Firm is harder than the average memory foam mattress, itโs also very responsive. We gave it a 5 out of 5 in this category on both sides because it was super easy to switch between different sleeping positions, which is great for combination sleepers.
For most sleepers, the ideal position for the Plank is resting on your stomach, regardless of which side you choose. โThere was no pinch in my upper back,โ said average-weight tester Sosha Lewis. โI felt completely aligned in this position, and there was just enough softness from the firmโs side top layer to remain comfortable.โBecause the Plank Firm is so, well, firm, I was curious how it would perform on our pressure map test. There was noticeable pressure on both sides, which isnโt surprising. I wouldnโt recommend this mattress to anyone who struggles with chronic joint pain.
But if youโre someone who wants one of the best firm mattresses, you canโt fare much better than the Plank. Itโs also backed by a 120-night trial period, so you have a generous amount of time to see if this truly unique mattress is a fit for you.
Want to learn more about the Plank? Check out our full Plank mattress review. If you need something flippable but with a softer touch, try the Zenhaven, a mattress with one side firm and the other medium-soft.
Other Memory Foam Beds I Considered
Weโve tested many other memory foam mattresses, and here are a few that didnโt quite make it onto our best list but are still worth considering depending on what your needs are.
Puffy Cloud Mattress
The Puffy Cloud Mattress gets an honorable mention for its exceptional back pain relief, low motion transfer, and effective cooling. Puffyโs innovative CloudFoam (the brandโs proprietary memory foam) is super breathable, while the hypoallergenic and stain-resistant cover make this a great bed for kids. However, it ultimately didnโt make the list because the pressure-map testing revealed pressure buildup around my hips and shoulders, meaning itโs not the best choice for side sleepers.
Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress
At $599 for a queen-sized bed, this Amazon mattress is cheaper than others in the same category and is notable for its pressure relief for both back and side sleepers. However, it didnโt make the cut due to its poor cooling abilities, lack of responsiveness for combination sleepers, and poor support for stomach sleepers and heavier individuals.
What Goes Into the Best Memory Foam Mattresses
We donโt rely on guesswork when choosing the best memory foam mattresses; we get hands-on with every bed to find the cream of the crop. Our team has tested more than 132 memory foam mattresses, so we know what to look for. Weโve honed our testing process through a mix of expert input and rigorous, real-world assessments, which allows us to evaluate every mattress on a range of important factors.
RELATED: Best Latex Mattress
Pressure Relief
Memory foam is famous for its doughy material that relieves pressure on the body, especially around sensitive areas like the shoulders, hips, and lower back. It does this by molding to the contours of your body, distributing your weight evenly, and reducing pressure points.
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, and quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine, says that memory foam mattresses are particularly effective and important for support and pressure relief. โThose with lower back pain and neck pain specifically could benefit from a memory foam mattress.โ
If you sleep on your side, youโre likely familiar with the discomfort in your shoulders or hips. Memory foam mattresses help by cradling those areas and easing the tension for better sleep. For back sleepers, memory foam can better align your spine and relieve lower back pain by supporting your bodyโs natural curve.
We test pressure relief using a specialized mat, which is placed on the surface of the mattress before anyone gets on the bed. Our testers will lie down on their back and sides, and the mat uses thermal imaging to create a graphic that we call a pressure map. This map shows a color-coded outline of where pressure builds up along the body. Greens and blues are a sign of low pressure, while reds and yellows mean high pressure. More of the former means a better pressure relief rating.
A total of three testers try out the mattress, representing each weight category: lightweight, average-weight, and heavyweight. Alongside the pressure map results, we also consider their opinion of how comfortable the mattress feels. Some beds are better at relieving pressure for certain body types, or they might feel better in one position across the board.
The final pressure relief score is a tally of all our testersโ opinions, so before you write off a low score, consider that it may just work for a specific type of sleeper. Also, stomach sleepers typically donโt need much pressure relief and should prioritize support instead, so a mattress thatโs too soft and cushioning wonโt work well for them. Itโs all about whatโs best for your needs.
Motion Isolation
If you sleep with a restless partner (or even a wiggly pet), motion isolation can be a huge deal. One of the standout features of memory foam mattresses is their ability to absorb motion, meaning that when your person or fur baby shifts, youโre less likely to feel it.
There are two types of memory foam beds: all-foam beds and hybrids, which combine memory foam with coils. Full memory foam beds offer a classic memory foam experience with deep contouring and pressure relief. Theyโre great for people who need a soft, body-cradling feel.
On the other hand, hybrids combine memory foamโs pressure relief with the added support of coils. They can provide more bounce and edge support than pure memory foam, making them a good option if you need more support or a more traditional mattress feel. Just know that if you have a restless partner or pet, youโre probably going to feel them move around more on this type of mattress.
We test motion isolation using three specific tests: the seismometer test, the motion transfer test, and the ripple test. In the seismometer test, we drop a steel ball from three different heights onto one side of the bed and measure the movement on the other side via a seismometer app. In the motion transfer test, our testers roll around next to each other and note the disturbance level on their side. And during the ripple test, we put a glass of water on one side of the bed and then have the tester get into the bed, switch positions, and get out, noting how the water reacts.
Edge Support
Edge support refers to how much the perimeter of a mattress sinks when bearing weight. Itโs an important metric for folks who like to spread out on the surface of their mattress, use it as an extra chair, or rely on it for added stability when getting out of bed. We also consider it a precursor to durability. If the edges of a bed donโt sag, itโs likely that the rest of the mattress will hold its shape for a longer period of time.
Unfortunately, almost all-foam mattresses usually have poor edge support. The materialโs dense, cushy feel is often more squishy than supportive. Still, weโve found plenty of standout foam beds with excellent edge support. They tend to have a firmer feel or are reinforced with extra foam around the perimeter.
We test edge support in a few ways. First, our tester sits on the edge of the mattress, judging the sinkage and how secure they feel. They then repeat that test, this time lying down in each sleeping position. The tester gives their opinion and rates the support out of 5.
Our second, more objective test is our weighted edge support test. We use stacks of weight plates to represent each body type (lightweight, average-weight, and heavyweight). These are placed at the edge of the mattress to mimic our seated test. Then, we use a tape measure to record how much the mattress sags underneath the weight. Each weight category receives a rating out of 5, which is then averaged with our subjective test results to determine the final score.
For a foam bed, especially one on the softer side, Iโd consider anything above a 3.5/5 pretty decent edge support. If youโre someone who absolutely needs a super-sturdy perimeter, Iโd recommend a mattress with springs over foam. Many hybrids feature memory foam comfort layers for the best of both worlds.
What To Consider When Buying A Memory Foam Mattress
Buying a memory foam mattress can be a bit overwhelming with all the options from different mattress brands out there. But once you know what to look for, it becomes a lot easier to pick the right one for your needs. Hereโs what I keep in mind whenever Iโm reviewing a memory foam bed.
Support
Pressure relief might be the most crucial factor to consider when looking into a memory foam mattress, but I think support might be just as important. On top of feeling cushiony and comfortable, a good memory foam bed should also provide ample support to keep your body aligned and prevent it from sinking too deeply into the mattress.
A common issue with memory foam mattresses is that they can lack edge support, making the edges feel soft or even a bit saggy. If you tend to sit on the edge of the bed or sleep near the side, consider looking for a memory foam mattress that incorporates reinforced edges or a hybrid design for better support.
Firmness
The firmness of a mattress is one of the most personal factors in choosing the right one. How firm a mattress feels to you will depend on your body type, weight, preferred sleeping position, and other factors. Memory foam mattresses come in a range of firmness levels, from ultra-soft to firm.
Side sleepers often prefer a softer mattress (one with a firmness score lower than 6.5), while back or stomach sleepers may need something firmer (6.5 and up) to prevent their body from sinking too deeply.
Sleeping Position
Your sleep style plays a huge role in the type of memory foam mattress thatโs best for you. Whether youโre a side, back, or stomach sleeper, choosing the right mattress helps support your body and keeps your spine aligned.
For side sleepers, a softer mattress lets your body sink in a bit, relieving pressure on the hips and shoulders. Memory foam is great at cradling these areas and helping you avoid that sharp, sore feeling when you wake up.
If youโre a back sleeper like me, a medium-firm mattress works best. Itโll keep your spine aligned and support the natural curve of your back, without letting you sink in too much.
Stomach sleepers typically need a firmer mattress to prevent their hips from sinking too deeply, which can lead to back pain. A firmer memory foam mattress will provide the support you need to keep everything in line.
Body Type and Weight
Your body type and body weight also play a role in finding the right memory foam mattress. Youโll want to find a mattress that supports you well, without being too soft or too firm for your body.
If you weigh under 130 pounds, you might prefer a softer mattress. Memory foam will allow you to sink in just the right amount for pressure relief and comfort. A mattress thatโs too firm, however, may not give you enough cushioning around your hips, shoulders, and other pressure points.
For average sleepers who fall between 130 and 230 pounds, a medium-firm mattress is often ideal. I fall into this category myself and find that most medium-firm beds offer a good balance of support and comfort, contouring to my body without letting it sink too deeply. Itโll give you the right level of pressure relief, whether you sleep on your side, back, or stomach.
For folks over 230 pounds, a firmer mattress is key to preventing excessive sinkage that causes pain and discomfort. Look for beds with a thicker support layer or models that combine memory foam with strong coils to ensure you get the support you need without feeling like youโre bottoming out.
Temperature and Cooling
Memory foam is notorious for trapping heat, which can be uncomfortable if you tend to sleep hot. Luckily, manufacturers have come up with various cooling technologies, but not all of them work equally well.
Some memory foam mattresses include cooling gels, copper infusions, or graphite to help dissipate heat. These can help, but in some cases, the effect may not be as dramatic as youโd hope. In my experience, the best memory foam mattresses for cooling are those with an open-cell structure or a breathable cover that allows airflow and helps regulate temperature.
But keep in mind, no mattress is completely immune to heat retention. If youโre a hot sleeper, you might need to focus on cooling materials, combined with a breathable pillow or sheet set.
Aside from our testerโs opinion of whether a mattress feels cool, we also use a more objective cooling test to determine a bedโs ability to regulate temperature. Using a thermal gun, we measure the mattress temperature before getting onto the bed and again after lying on it for 5 minutes. If the temperature increases 5 degrees or less, that indicates excellent cooling; 5 to 10 degrees indicates good cooling; 10 to 15 degrees indicates satisfactory cooling; and over 15 degrees indicates poor cooling.
Responsiveness
Responsiveness is like a close cousin to bounce. It refers to how quickly a mattress returns to its shape when you put weight on it. Most memory foam mattresses have a slow-moving feel, meaning theyโre not very responsive. Some firmer foam beds have a better response, which makes them more appealing to combination sleepers, sexually active folks, or people who just prefer a bouncy mattress.
To test responsiveness, our testers roll around and switch positions, noting how easy it is to do so. We also place a kettlebell on the mattress surface letting it compress the layers for 7 seconds before we lift it off the bed, observing how quickly it springs back. These two results make up our final responsiveness score, which is rated out of 5.
Price
Memory foam mattresses typically range from $700 to $2,000, so itโs important to find one that fits your budget while still giving you what you need. That said, you should be cautious with really cheap options. Lower-priced mattresses often have thinner foam layers, less durable construction, and weaker cooling properties. You might sacrifice comfort and longevity with these options.
On the flip side, pricier models tend to offer organic materials, improved durability, and more advanced features like better cooling and support. If youโre willing to invest a bit more, a higher-end mattress could offer a much better overall experience and last longer.
Warranty and Sleep Trial
When purchasing a memory foam mattress, a good warranty and sleep trial are a must. These policies give you peace of mind and help you ensure youโre making a wise investment. Many companies offer a sleep trial period (usually between 90 and 120 nights). This lets you test the mattress at home to see if it works for you. Just be sure the return process is easy, in case the mattress isnโt a good fit.
Meanwhile, a 10-year warranty is average and covers issues such as manufacturing defects and sagging beyond a certain depth. If you really want to know if a company stands by their product, I suggest looking for a lifetime warranty. And donโt forget to read the fine print so you know whatโs covered and whatโs not.
Memory Foam vs Other Materials
Throughout this article, weโve gone over the pros and cons of memory foam mattresses. Whether youโre set on buying an all-foam bed or youโre still waffling on whether itโs the best choice for you, let me quickly summarize the other mattress materials and types foam is competing with.
- Innerspring mattresses are constructed primarily with interconnected coils. They donโt have much foam as their comfort layers are thin. These beds are best for folks who want extra lift and bounce. If youโre a side sleeper or someone with sensitive joints, Iโd steer clear.
- Hybrid mattresses are like innerspring bedsโ cooler younger siblings. They, too, have a coil unit, but they have thick comfort layers on top. The most common material isโyou guessed itโmemory foam! A couple beds on this list are hybrid mattresses for that reason. Theyโre both varied and versatile, but theyโre more expensive than foam beds.
- You may have heard of latex mattresses, a relatively new advent. These beds contain a special type of foam made from latex, which is derived from the sap of rubber trees. This material is bouncier, more breathable, and more pressure-relieving than foamโor so some studies say. Sometimes these beds also feature coils, for even more bounce and breathability. If that sounds more appealing to you, check out our favorite latex beds. Note that latex beds are also more expensive than foam beds, due to their natural components.
FAQs
What thickness of memory foam is best?
On average, I recommend purchasing a memory foam mattress with a thickness of 10 to 12 inches. But truly, it depends on the sleeper. Folks who are lighter in weight wonโt compress through the mattress layers as much as others, so theyโll likely be comfortable on as little as eight inches. Sleepers over 130 pounds should consider a bed thatโs somewhere around 10 to 13 inches.
Do you need a box spring with a memory foam mattress?
Totally up to you. You donโt need a box spring for any of the mattresses mentioned in this list, but if you prefer the feel of a box spring to that of a traditional bed frame, feel free to go with it. I do always recommend checking with the manufacturer to make sure youโre using the right type of mattress base so it doesnโt void the warranty.
Can you flip a memory foam mattress?
It depends on the bed. Some memory foam mattresses are flippable, so will work regardless of how you orient them. Others, however, arenโt designed to be flipped at all as they only feature memory foam on one side of the bed.
Should my memory foam mattress have a warranty and sleep trial?
Warranty length and sleep trial periods are two important things to consider when choosing a new mattress. In general, I recommend looking for a company that offers at least a 10-year warranty and 100-night (or longer) sleep trial. These are both great indications that youโre buying from a reputable mattress brand that stands behind their products and protects you, the customer.
How much should I pay for a memory foam mattress?
A queen-size memory foam mattress can cost anywhere from about $500 to $3,000. Most of the mattresses I chose for this roundup land in the middle of this range, which I think is a fairly average price for a high-quality memory foam mattress.
For better deals, check out our Sleepopolis coupons page or keep an eye out for company discounts. Most brands run sales throughout the year, with many falling in line with holidays such as Black Friday, Memorial Day, and Labor Day. And of course, weโll always keep you informed on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube about the latest deals so you can find the bed thatโs 100 percent right for you.
Is a memory foam mattress good for back pain?
It really depends on how you sleep. Though most memory foam mattresses will probably be too soft for strict back sleepers, side sleepers with aches and pains in the lower back may find that a memory foam mattress is able to alleviate tension along the spine. If you are struggling with pain at night be sure to look at the top mattresses for back pain.
What are the disadvantages of memory foam mattresses?
Memory foam mattresses often get a bad reputation for trapping heat, sagging easily, and limiting sleepersโ mobility. However, many modern manufacturers include high-quality foams, cooling gel infusions, or more responsive transition foams to solve each of these issues.