Viscoelastic polyurethane foam – better known as memory foam – was first developed by NASA engineers. Memory foam becomes softer and more adaptive when exposed to body heat, allowing it to mold around the unique contours of your body. As it cools, the foam returns to its original shape.
Today, memory foam is one of the most popular mattress materials. For each mattress below, we evaluated the qualities people love most about memory foam, such as even contouring and weight distribution, pressure relief along the spine, and superior motion isolation. Our testing team also singled out particular models based on their performance for certain types of people, such as side sleepers and those who run hot in bed.
Cut to the Chase – What’s the Best Memory Foam Mattress
Our top pick offers the even contouring, pressure relief, and excellent motion isolation of many competing memory foam mattresses. But its firmer feel provides more support for people who weigh more than 130 pounds, and cooling components help offset the foam’s heat-trapping tendencies. If you want to take our word for it and bypass the full list of best memory foam mattress picks, check out the Nectar Mattress.
Product Details
Best Overall
Nectar Mattress
Price Range: $399 - $1,138
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium Firm (6)
Trial length: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Who it's best for:
- Side sleepers
- Budget-conscious shoppers
- Couples
Highlights:
- All-foam construction balances contouring and support
- Memory foam surface provides excellent motion isolation
- 365-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
$699 SPECIAL OFFER! $200 Off + $499 in Accessories Included!
Bottom Line
The Nectar is firmer than some other memory foam models we’ve tested. It has enough give to prevent soreness while staying firm enough to keep your body from sinking too much.
If you’re a fan of memory foam mattresses, you have plenty of options to choose from when shopping for a new bed. Based on our in-house testing, we found that the Nectar Mattress stands apart from the competition for its balance of support and contouring, quality construction, and approachable price-point.
How It Performed
According to our test team, one of the Nectar’s most noteworthy performance features was the excellent pressure relief. Side sleepers on our team found this mattress to be a good fit since the contouring surface provided ample cushioning for the shoulders and hips, where pressure typically builds up for side sleepers during the night. The foam surface also absorbed motion with great efficiency, making this bed a strong choice for sleep partners who don’t want to disrupt each other’s sleep with nighttime movement.
What It’s Made of
The 12-inch mattress begins with a memory foam comfort layer that contoured closely to the body during testing. With a medium firm (6) feel, the mattress is still firm enough to offer support if you don’t want to sink too deep. Beneath is a transitional layer of firmer polyfoam that further prevents excessive sinkage, followed by a support core of firm high-density polyfoam. The mattress is encased in a cover made from a polyester, nylon, and polyethylene blend.
Nectar offers a generous 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty with this mattress. The bed also comes with free shipping and returns throughout the contiguous U.S.
Best Value
Silk & Snow Mattress
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium (5)
Trial length: 100 nights (30-night requirement)
Warranty: 15 Year, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for:
- Hot sleepers
- Side sleepers
- Couples who value motion isolation
Highlights:
- All-foam construction deeply contours to the body to relieve pressure
- Gel infusions designed to regulate temperature
- Dense polyfoam layers prevent excessive sinkage
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Silk & Snow mattresses
Bottom Line
The Silk & Snow Mattress is an all-foam model with cooling gel infusions in the comfort system meant to regulate temperature throughout the night. Hot sleepers on our team really enjoyed the mattress and gave it above-average marks in temperature neutrality.
All-foam mattresses have an adaptive feel that we’ve found great at relieving pressure, but they can also retain too much heat for some people. The Silk & Snow Mattress uses cooling infusions meant to absorb and dissipate excess body heat, earning it higher-than-average marks in our temperature neutrality tests.
How It Performed
The Silk & Snow falls at a 5 on our 10-point firmness scale. The medium feel and foam construction best suited side sleepers on our team, who noted that the foam layers helped reduce pressure buildup in the shoulders and hips. Back and stomach sleepers on our team who weigh under 130 pounds also enjoyed the mattress, but most sleepers who use these positions will likely find a firmer option more comfortable.
Although cooling was one of the mattress’ standout features, it also performed well in other key categories. We recommend the Silk & Snow for couples who value motion isolation. The mattress absorbed most movement transfer and all noise during our tests. You should notice little to no disturbances when your partner changes positions or gets up at night. The mattress also earned high marks in our pressure relief tests, so we recommend it if you experience pressure buildup in your joints.
What It’s Made of
Adaptive memory foam makes up the top layer of the mattress, offering great contouring for pressure points. This layer is also infused with cooling gel intended to regulate temperature on the surface. Next is a layer of dense polyfoam that ensures your weight is evenly distributed across the surface. The support core features high-density polyfoam that prevents you from sinking too deeply into the mattress and keeps your body on an even plane. A polyester and spandex cover encases the mattress.
Silk & Snow ships free to customers living in the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada. Mattress purchases come with a 100-night sleep trial, during which you can test the mattress and return it for a refund anytime after the 30-night break-in period. The mattress is backed by a 15-year warranty against structural defects.
Most Comfortable
WinkBeds GravityLux
Price Range: $1,199 - $1,999
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium Soft (4), Medium (5), Firm (7)
Trial length: 120 nights (30 night requirement)
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for:
- Couples or sleepers who are easily disturbed
- People with back, hip, and/or shoulder pain
- Hot sleepers
Highlights:
- Foam comfort system provides exceptional pressure relief and motion isolation
- Breathable Tencel cover and open-cell foam keeps the mattress cool
- Choice of three firmness levels
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
Get $300 off all mattresses
Bottom Line
The GravityLux has enough firmness options to give most sleepers something to love. The zoned support system keeps your back comfortably positioned, even with the softest model.
The GravityLux by WinkBeds is a memory foam mattress that comes in three firmness levels: medium soft (4), medium (5), and firm (8). Our testers found that the bed optimizes comfort for many different body types and sleep positions regardless of firmness level.
How It Performed
After performing numerous tests on the GravityLux, our testers gave it high marks in the pressure relief and motion isolation categories. This makes it great for people who experience back, shoulder, or hip pain, as well as couples and light sleepers. Since the bed is available in three different firmness options, we think sleepers of all weights and sleeping positions should be able to find a GravityLux model that works for them. While all-foam mattresses inevitably will sleep somewhat hot at night, the open-celled foam makes the GravityLux more temperature neutral than other memory foam beds we’ve tested.
What It’s Made of
The mattress has a Tencel cover, a eucalyptus-derived fabric known for its breathability and durability. The comfort system consists of polyfoam layers and a proprietary AirCell memory foam, which has an open-cell composition to prevent the foam from trapping excessive body heat throughout the night. Under this is a zoned transition layer. We found that the zoned design supports the midsection while conforming to the shoulder and hips. It all sits on top of a high-density polyfoam support core.
As a luxury option, the GravityLux comes at a slightly higher price-point than the average all-foam mattress, but it also stands out due to its quality construction and materials. WinkBeds offers a 120-night sleep trial, a lifetime warranty, and free shipping within the contiguous U.S.
Best for Side Sleepers
Layla Mattress
Price Range: $749 - $1,249
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)
Trial length: 120 nights
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for:
- People whose firmness needs change over time
- Customers who prefer foam with cooling properties
- Value-minded shoppers
Highlights:
- Flippable design offers 2-in-1 firmness
- Copper-infused foams conform closely and should stay cooler than conventional foam
- 120-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
Get $160 off a Layla Memory Foam Mattress + 2 free memory foam pillows with code: SLEEPFOUNDATION
Bottom Line
The side sleepers on our team found a lot to like about the Layla Mattress. The bed was also easier to flip than other reversible models since it weighs slightly less than average.
The Layla Mattress has an innovative flippable design, quality construction, and competitive price-point compared to other foam beds we’ve tested. The two-sided construction offers a medium (4 out of 10) firmness on one side and a firm (7) feel on the other. We recommend the bed, especially the softer side, for side sleeper and people who need ample pressure relief for sensitive joints.
How It Performed
During our in-house testing, we found that the Layla’s two-sided design had something to offer sleepers of different body types and sleeping positions. The soft side appealed to testers who sleep on their side and some back sleepers who weigh less than 230 pounds. The firm side appealed most to back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds. This mattress performed very well when tested for pressure relief, motion isolation, and durability, making it a good long-lasting option for couples and those with pain issues.
What It’s Made of
The Layla has a copper-infused memory foam comfort layer on each side. These layers conform closely to your body to relieve pressure — this is especially true of the softer side, which has a thicker memory foam layer than the firmer side. The softer surface also has an additional foam layer that we found enhances cushioning. Both sides share a support core of high-density polyfoam. The cover is composed of a polyester and viscose blend fabric infused with a cooling gel, and the copper infusion in the memory foam is designed to prevent excessive heat retention.
Layla guarantees their mattress with a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty. The bed ships free to the contiguous U.S.
Best for Couples
Nectar Premier Copper
Price Range: $1,199 - $2,498
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium Firm (6)
Trial length: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Who it's best for:
- Side sleepers
- People who experience uncomfortable pressure buildup during sleep
- Couples
Highlights:
- Thick memory foam layer provides exceptional pressure relief
- Mixed-foam design offers above-average motion isolation
- 365-night sleep trial
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
$699 SPECIAL OFFER! $200 Off + $499 in Accessories Included!
Bottom Line
While most foam beds are known for their cushioned surfaces, the Nectar Premier Copper stands apart from the crowd with an exceptionally plush surface. We highly recommend this bed for pressure relief.
The Nectar Premier Copper is an all-foam bed with an exceptionally thick memory foam top layer. Compared to other foam beds we’ve tested in the lab, the well-cushioned surface excels at absorbing motion, which might appeal to couples trying to minimize sleep disruptions at night.
How It Performed
Our team performed several tests on the Nectar Premier Copper, and one of the biggest strengths by far was its pressure relief. The plush comfort layer cradled our testers’ bodies closely, so the surface reduced pressure buildup in heavier parts of the body. This was especially helpful for side sleepers on our team, who put a lot of pressure on their shoulders and hips during sleep. Back sleepers also found some benefit from the cushioning, though those who weigh above 230 pounds found the medium firm (6) feel a bit too soft to support the lumbar area properly.
The Nectar Premier Copper tends to retain heat, like most all-foam beds. That said, our temperature tests showed that it stays cooler than the average foam bed thanks to the phase change material and cooling gel infused into the comfort layer. The copper fibers are also intended to reduce heat retention on the surface.
What It’s Made of
The mattress has a polyester blend cover infused with copper fibers. The 4-inch comfort layer is composed of plush memory foam, which provides the deep-body hug for which memory foam is known. Below is a thinner layer of polyfoam with a firmer feel. We found the polyfoam prevents the body from sinking too deep into the support core, which is composed of high-density polyfoam. At 9 inches tall, we found this layer was thicker than support cores in other beds we’ve tested, making the bed firmer and more durable than competing foam beds.
Nectar offers a 365-night sleep trial for customers to try out the mattress at home, and a lifetime warranty for those who keep the bed. Shipping to addresses in the contiguous U.S. is free.
Best Pressure Relief
Leesa Original
Price Range: $849 - $1,599
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium (5)
Trial length: 100 nights (30 night requirement)
Warranty: 10 Year, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for:
- Side and back sleepers
- Sleepers who frequently experience back pain
- Couples who value motion isolation
Highlights:
- Thick foam comfort system closely contours to the body to relieve pressure buildup
- All-foam construction absorbs most motion transfer
- 100-night sleep trial
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
Save up to $700 + 2 free pillows ($120 value) + 10% off all bedding
Bottom Line
The Leesa Original has a medium (5) feel and thick comfort layers that balance cushioning and support for sleepers with back pain. Our testing team found this combination best suited for side and back sleepers.
The Leesa Original features a thick comfort system with deep contouring that may appeal to people with sharp pressure points. Our tests showed that the combination of adaptive and responsive foams evenly balanced pressure relief and support to help prevent aches and pains.
How It Performed
Our testers found the Leesa’s mid-range feel and all-foam construction made it an excellent choice for side sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. Back-sleeping testers who weigh under 130 pounds also found the mattress comfortable. Thanks to the thick memory foam comfort layer, the Leesa scored high marks in pressure relief. This layer has an adaptive feel that helped reduce pain in pressure-prone areas among our testers. The comfort layers also absorbed most motion transfer and noise, so couples and co-sleepers should notice very few sleep disturbances when their partner changes positions at night.
What It’s Made of
Underneath the soft and stretchy polyester-blend cover is a layer of responsive polyfoam that gently cradled the body when we laid on the mattress. Next is a layer of memory foam that closely contours to the body to alleviate pressure buildup in the joints. These layers helped evenly distribute weight across the mattress during our tests, promoting spinal alignment. The support core is composed of high-density polyfoam that provides enough pushback to support the midsection and limit sagging.
The Leesa Original comes at an affordable price, and the company ships free to customers in all 50 states. Purchases come with a 100-night sleep trial, where you can return the mattress after the 30-night break-in period. Leesa backs the mattress with a 10-year warranty.
Best for Back Pain
Nolah Signature 12
Price Range: $849 - $1,499
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium (5)
Trial length: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for:
- Side sleepers
- Co-sleepers
- People who feel pain or pressure points along the spine
Highlights:
- Proprietary AirFoam intended to cushion the body without trapping heat
- Foam layers provide very good motion isolation and pressure relief
- Buyers can save money by opting out of the sleep trial
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
Get an additional $20 off the Nolah Signature Mattress for total savings of $320 with code: SF320
Bottom Line
The Signature 12 has a plush surface, but the secondary layers do a good job of keeping your body on an even plane. Compared to a traditional memory foam bed, sinkage and heat absorption were minimal.
The Nolah Signature 12 is slightly different from the other entries we included on this list. The mattress contains layers of adaptive foam rather than traditional memory foam. This ensures comparable levels of pressure relief without the deep sinkage many people dislike about memory foam, which caters it to sleepers with back pain.
How It Performed
Since the Signature 12 has a medium (5) feel and thick comfort system, we found it best suited to side sleepers – particularly those who weigh up to 230 pounds. Back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds may also feel adequately supported. The foam layers contoured closely enough to cradle the spine and alleviate pressure caused by uneven alignment. These layers also absorbed motion well to help reduce sleep disruptions for people who share their bed with a partner.
We noticed minimal heat buildup on the surface. The AirFoam’s open-cell design, coupled with a breathable cover, should make the Signature 12 a good option for people who typically sleep hot on traditional memory foam mattresses.
What It’s Made of
The Signature 12’s top layer consists of AirFoam, a proprietary open-cell material designed to contour evenly without trapping too much heat. A second comfort layer of high-resilience polyfoam cushioned the body and prevented our testers from sinking too deeply. This is followed by a denser AirFoam layer, which we found boosted support. The support core is composed of high-density polyfoam, and an organic cotton cover encases the entire mattress.
All customers in the contiguous U.S. qualify for free ground shipping with their Signature 12 order. Nolah offers a 120-night sleep trial, but you may opt out of the return period and save some money on your purchase. The mattress is also backed by a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Cooling
Bear Original
Price Range: $748 - $1,248
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Firm (7)
Trial length: 120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for:
- Value seekers
- Back sleepers
- Sleepers with sharp pressure points
Highlights:
- Graphite and gel-infused foams designed to keep you cool
- All-foam design with a firm (7) feel provides light contouring
- 120-night trial period and lifetime warranty
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
30% off sitewide, plus 2 free Cloud Pillows with mattress purchase
Bottom Line
The Bear Original is a balanced mattress at an affordable price. The back sleepers on our testing team found the firm feel extremely supportive, while the foam layers evenly contoured to the body.
The Bear Original offers proprietary cooling technology and high-quality performance at an affordable price-point. We’ve tested many foam beds, and this model had a distinctly firm feel that is somewhat rare for an all-foam mattress. If you’re a back or stomach sleeper, or simply prefer a more supportive mattress, you may want to consider this pick.
How It Performed
We found the Bear’s firmer feel and foam design made it a strong choice for back-sleeping testers who weigh at least 130 pounds. Side sleepers over 230 pounds and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also appreciated this combination.
Thanks to the thick memory foam comfort layer, this bed excelled in pressure relief. If you frequently experience pressure-induced pain in your joints, you’ll appreciate the close contouring. These foam layers were also excellent at isolating motion. When two testers shared the bed surface, they barely felt each other’s movements. This may appeal to co-sleepers who are frequently disturbed by a partner’s movement.
What It’s Made of
A breathable cover made from a Celliant and polyester blend encases the mattress. During testing, the top memory foam layer evenly contoured to our testers’ bodies to relieve pressure-prone areas. The graphite and gel infusions in this layer are meant to conduct heat away from the body and dissipate it to keep you cool. Underneath is a layer of responsive polyfoam that evenly distributed weight and kept the spine aligned during our tests. The support core features high-density polyfoam, providing stability and limiting excessive sinkage.
Bear ships free to the contiguous U.S. Mattress purchases come with a 120-night sleep trial where you can return the mattress after the 30-night break-in period. The company backs the mattress with a lifetime warranty, covering structural defects.
Best Luxury
Loom & Leaf
Price Range: $1,095 - $2,915
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial length: 365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King, Split California King
Who it's best for:
- People who experience painful pressure buildup
- Sleepers who enjoy the deep body hug of foam beds
- Couples
Highlights:
- Available in two firmness options
- Thick memory foam layer excels at pressure relief
- Above-average support for an all-foam bed
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
Buy more, save more. Up to $500 off.
Bottom Line
The Loom & Leaf feels very sturdy and durable, which is not always the case for an all-foam bed. The pressure relief was also exceptional.
The Loom & Leaf Mattress from Saatva is an all-foam bed with better support than other foam beds we’ve tested. With higher quality construction than many competing foam models, the durability of the Loom & Leaf justifies the higher price tag.
How It Performed
The multiple foam layers cradled the body and eased pressure off sensitive joints when we tested it in our lab. Side sleepers tend to put pressure on their shoulders and hips, so testers who sleep in this position gave this model high praise, especially the softer option. That said, the mattress is suitable for a wide range of body types and sleep positions. Stomach sleepers will likely find the firm option more comfortable, while back sleepers may choose either option, depending on their weight category. Our motion isolation tests showed that the foam surface absorbs almost all motion, making this an excellent choice if you wish to avoid disruptions from a sleep partner’s movements at night.
What It’s Made of
You can choose between two firmness levels, medium firm (6) and firm (8). Both options begin with a breathable organic cotton cover quilted with foam, followed by a plush layer of gel-infused memory foam that conforms closely to your body. A lumbar pad is sandwiched between the memory foam and cover to enhance lower back support. Next is a layer of higher density memory foam, which balances contouring with support. Beneath is a polyfoam layer with a firmness that varies according to which firmness option you choose. The support core is composed of high-density polyfoam for stability.
Saatva offers free White Glove delivery to the contiguous U.S., which means the mattress will be delivered to and set up in the room of your choice free of charge. You’ll receive a 365-night sleep trial as well as a lifetime warranty.
Best for Combination Sleepers
Puffy Mattress
Price Range: $699 - $1,249
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium (5)
Trial length: 101 Nights
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for:
- Those who value close-conforming pressure relief
- Side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds
- People who sleep with a partner
Highlights:
- Gel-infused memory foam offers deep-body hug
- Medium (5) feel results in outstanding motion isolation
- Conforming surface helps alleviate pressure points
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
$455 of free accessories with every mattress purchase
Bottom Line
Few mattresses we’ve tested offer the same level of body-cradling as the Puffy. The memory foam responds slowly as you sink into the surface. Side sleepers and anyone else who benefits from a soft mattress should give this one a try.
While all memory foam beds are known for their contouring, the Puffy’s above-average plushness sets it apart from other foam mattresses on the market. If you’re a combination sleeper who switches between back and side sleeping, the Puffy is a worthwhile option that cradles the shoulders, hips, and spine.
How It Performed
Overall the mattress has a medium feel, rating 5 out of 10 on the firmness scale. This is softer than the average foam bed you’ll find, so it’s a good fit for people who need extra cushioning. The foam layers closely cradle your joints, which helps alleviate sore spots and promote spinal alignment for side sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. The Puffy Mattress also has outstanding motion isolation, making it particularly suitable for people who are easily awoken by their partner’s movements.
What It’s Made of
The Puffy features an all-foam construction with a top layer of memory foam. This layer cradles your body closely and is infused with gel intended to reduce heat retention. A transitional layer of cooling polyfoam enhances the cushioning but also has a firmer feel for support. The base layer is composed of high-density polyfoam to stabilize the bed. The mattress is encased in a stain-resistant polyester cover, which is removable and machine washable.
Puffy gives customers 101 nights to try out the mattress, after which it’s backed by a lifetime warranty. Mattresses ship free to the contiguous U.S.
Who Should Buy a Memory Foam Mattress?
Foam contours closely to your body to ease pressure, so it can help minimize painful pressure buildup and boost the quality of your sleep. You should buy a memory foam mattress if you have experienced pain (from sleeping or otherwise), want to feel like you’re sleeping “in” rather than “on” the mattress, and/or value motion isolation to limit nighttime disruptions.
Side sleepers, who have high-impact areas at the hips and shoulders, frequently have great results with memory foam mattresses. Back and stomach sleepers, especially those under 230 pounds, appreciate these beds as well.
Our testing shows that memory foam is not the best fit for people who sleep hot. It may be a poor match for people who need to move easily on top of the mattress, including for sexual activity.
What to Look For in a Memory Foam Mattress
To find the best memory foam mattress, it helps to know the key things to look for so that you can keep your eye on the ball. In general, we’ve found that memory foam provides above-average pressure relief and motion isolation but can sleep hot and permit too much sink for some people. Manufacturers often add components to try to address the downsides, but the actual effects of those design changes are mixed.
As you review specific models, consider the following factors and how important they are for your personal decision-making.
- Price: There’s no avoiding the bottom line, and you’ll need to make sure that any mattress you’re seriously considering fits in your budget. Memory foam beds tend to cost from $800 up to $2,500, but we see frequent discounts available with promotions or coupons.
- Sleeping Position: Your body’s support needs will vary based on your typical sleeping position. Our tests show that memory foam is a solid bet for side sleepers who have sharper pressure points. It can also work well for back and stomach sleepers if they have a lighter body weight or if the mattress is on the firmer side.
- Contouring: Virtually all memory foam beds that we’ve tested have notable hug, but some models feature a softer foam with even more pronounced contouring. Consider how much you want to sleep “on” versus “in” the bed and then select a mattress that fits that preference.
- Quality Materials: Excellent materials translate to more durability and top-flight performance. All foams will wear out over time, but low-end memory foam will start to sag more quickly, reducing its support and comfort.
- Firmness Level: Every person has their own preferred mattress firmness, and it’s critical to look for a mattress that fits that preference. As a general principle, side sleepers and people with lower body weight lean toward softer mattresses.
- Motion Isolation: You should expect good motion isolation with memory foam, but not all of these mattresses are created in this regard. If you’re extremely sensitive to sleep disruptions, look for a bed with more contour and greater motion isolation.
Our testers often use beakers of blue liquid and move across a mattress to test for motion isolation.
- Pressure Relief: Our tests show that pressure relief is often a standout feature of memory foam because it can give each part of the body the cushioning that it needs. If you have major pressure points, make sure to look for a memory foam bed with a thick enough comfort system to prevent bottoming out through the foam.
We lie on mattresses and use pressure-mapping tools to measure pressure buildup on mattresses.
- Ease of Movement / Sex: Memory foam has minimal bounce because of how slowly it retakes it shape. This can make it hard to move on the bed, including during sex. Some testers report feeling “stuck” in the mattress. If this is a concern for you, look for a memory foam mattress with more mild contouring.
- Edge Support: We perform edge tests on all mattresses, and edges tend to be a trouble area for memory foam mattresses. The foam sinks more around the edge, which can be problematic for people who want to sleep or sit near the perimeter of the mattress.
- Temperature Regulation: When it contours to the body, memory foam can cut off airflow throughout the mattress. The foam itself also retains heat, making it even softer and further restricting airflow. Some mattresses have features to try to decrease heat buildup, but hot sleepers should be aware that even newer memory foams with various infusions will still tend to sleep hotter than other mattress materials.
- Noise: A loud mattress that squeaks when you move on it can be both annoying and disruptive. We’ve noticed that most all-foam mattresses are extremely quiet, making them a great choice for noise-sensitive people.
How Does it Feel to Sleep on a Memory Foam Mattress?
If you’ve never tried out a memory foam mattress, it’s natural to wonder what it feels like. While words can’t explain it perfectly, this section gives you an idea:
- Floating on Clouds: With a more plush, cushioning feel, our testers describe memory foam as what they envision it’s like to “sleep on a cloud.”
- A Big, Warm Hug: Memory foam conforms to the body, providing a hugging sensation that can be comfortable but can also cause heat retention.
- Totally Unmoved: When our testers lie on memory foam mattresses, they’re almost completely unaffected by movement that happens on the other side of the bed.
- Under No Pressure: Pressure relief from memory foam can reduce impact at parts of the body where you might be used to feeling pain or stress.
- In One Place: With little bounce, you may feel more settled or even stuck in one place on a memory foam mattress.
What is Pressure Relief? – Video
Memory foam beds are great at relieving pressure from areas like your shoulders and hips. But what exactly is pressure relief? Watch the video below for an in-depth explanation from our Sleep Foundation Lab.
What are the Different Types of Memory Foam?
All forms of memory foam have shared characteristics, but not all memory foams are the same. The feel, durability, and performance can be different depending on the composition and type of the foam as well as its quality.
Traditional Memory Foam
Traditional memory foam offers the most classic performance of this material. It has deep contouring and motion isolation along with notable heat retention and minimal bounce.
Both its benefits and drawbacks are easily detected, and as a consequence, this type of memory foam is controversial. Some people love its cloud-like hug while others complain about feeling stuck in the foam or overheating on it during the night.
With newer memory foams on the market, traditional memory foam’s use has declined slightly, but it can still often be found in the comfort system of all-foam and hybrid beds.
Plant-Based Memory Foam
The manufacturing process for memory foam involves a handful of chemicals, some of which are derived from petroleum. In a plant-based memory foam, sometimes called a “bio” foam, a certain percentage of those petrochemicals are replaced with products that come from plant matter, such as soybean oils.
Plant-based memory foam is appealing for eco-conscious customers, but it is important to note that the plant oils replace some but not all of the petrochemicals.
Because the rest of the manufacturing process is similar, the performance of plant-based memory foam is similar to other types. It may come with a slightly higher price tag than petroleum-based memory foam.
Gel-Infused Memory Foam
Gel-infused memory foam intersperses a gel material into the foam itself. The gel can be added in a swirl pattern or can be enclosed in small beads that are distributed through the foam.
The goal of infusing gel into memory foam is to try to reduce heat retention. The gels often have properties that are designed to absorb heat from the foam, keeping heat from building up near the sleeping surface and around your body.
Gel-infused foams are common and, depending on the gel used, may provide a modest decrease in heat retention. That said, our testing shows that even these memory foams will heat up more than other mattress materials.
Copper-Infused Memory Foam
In this type of memory foam, copper-filled beads are intermixed with the foam. These beads are intended to draw heat away from the surface of the mattress. Copper has antibacterial properties, which may help prevent odors and the deterioration of the mattress.
Many products that include copper are marketed as having health-promoting effects on circulation or muscle recovery. To date, there’s limited evidence that copper gel in a mattress has any direct positive or negative effects on individual health.
Memory Foam vs. Hybrid
A great deal of mattress shoppers find themselves deciding between a memory foam or hybrid mattress. Hybrids are built with a coil-based support core and various layers, including sometimes memory foam, layered above the coils.
The following table compares memory foam and hybrid mattresses. As you review it, keep in mind that the performance of hybrids has a wider range because of the multitude of ways that their comfort system can be built.
|
Memory Foam Mattresses |
Hybrids |
| Support Core |
High-Density Polyfoam |
Innerspring Coils |
| Comfort System |
Memory foam, sometimes with other supplemental layers (polyfoam, latex) |
One or more layers of memory foam, polyfoam, latex, microcoils, wool, cotton, and/or polyester |
| Motion Isolation |
High |
Low to High |
| Bounce |
Low |
Medium to Hgih |
| Temperature Regulation |
Low |
Medium to High |
| Common Firmness |
Plush to Medium-Firm |
Medium to Firm |
| Expected Durability |
6-8 years |
6-8 years |
| Price Range |
$800 – $2,500 |
$1,400 – $2,500 |
How Much Does a Memory Foam Mattress Cost?
The typical price range for memory foam mattresses goes from $800 to $2,500, but there are options with price tags above and below that range. A number of factors can influence the cost of these beds:
- Thickness of the memory foam layer: If there are more layers or thicker layers of memory foam, the mattress will likely have a higher price.
Thickness of the foam layers plays a role in the overall mattress price.
- Density of the memory foam: Mattresses that use high-density memory foams tend to be pricier, but they also normally last longer.
- Where it’s made: Mattresses made in the USA tend to be more expensive than those made in China or other countries.
- Extra features: Specialty design elements or materials can push up the price of a memory foam mattress. For example, textiles to fight heat buildup or the use of organic materials can add to the cost.
Even for higher-end models, there are often discounts or promotions that can give customers significant savings from the sticker price.
How Much Does a Mattress Cost? – Video
Check out our video below to find out how much a memory foam mattress costs compared to other mattress types.
Memory Foam Density and ILD
Many mattress manufacturers list the specifications of the foam employed in their mattress. Two of the most helpful specifications are density and indentation load-deflection (ILD).
Density
Density is measured in pounds per cubic foot (PCF), which is calculated by weighing a 1 foot by 1 foot by 1 foot cube of the foam. For memory foam used in a mattress comfort layer, 3.5 PCF is about average. Higher density memory foam is usually 4 to 5 PCF.
The density of the foam can affect the feel, but not all high-density foams are firm. Instead, the biggest impact of density is on longevity of the mattress. Higher density usually correlates with a longer lifespan. Additionally, high-density foam generally recovers its shape slower, giving it that slow-responding feel traditionally associated with memory foam.
Indentation Load-Deflection (ILD)
ILD provides an indication of how easy it is to compress the foam. It is measured with a special device that applies force to the foam until it reaches a certain level of indentation. The higher the ILD, the firmer the foam will feel. For a broad sense of what ILD numbers mean,
- 10 to 12 ILD: Soft
- 12 to 14 ILD: Medium
- 14 to 16 ILD: Medium-firm
- 16 to 18 ILD: Firm
You can look at listed foam ILD to get a sense of how a mattress may feel, but keep in mind that a mattress is made with multiple layers, each of which plays a part in the overall feel and performance. In addition, not all companies calculate ILD in the exact same way, so ILD alone is not always a reliable way to assess mattress firmness.
How Long Will a Memory Foam Mattress Last?
Most memory foam mattresses last from 6 to 8 years before having issues with sagging or diminished performance. This lifespan is longer than most innersprings and airbeds, similar to hybrids, and shorter than all-latex beds.
Some memory foam mattresses may last for more or less than the 6 to 8 year average. Issues that can affect longevity include:
- Quality of materials: Memory foam layers that are thicker, denser, and part of a mattress made with significant attention-to-detail are far more likely to hold up for the long haul.
- Stress placed on the mattress: More stress is placed on a mattress by couples than an individual person, by people with a higher body weight, and by children (or pets) who jump on the bed.
- Mattress maintenance: Failure to use the mattress as intended can make it susceptible to more rapid wear-and-tear. For example, an unsupportive frame may heighten the risk of premature damage to the mattress itself. Using a mattress pad or protector helps protect the mattress against spills that could damage the foam.
Higher-end foams tend to cost more, but that investment often pays off over time. Opting for better materials and then taking care of the mattress can contribute directly to a longer useful life for your bed.
Last Things to Consider With a Memory Foam Mattress
Now that you’ve got a strong base of information about memory foam mattresses, there are only a few other issues to cover to round out your knowledge.
Off-Gassing
When a foam mattress is made, certain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are created, and those become sealed in when the mattress is compressed and prepared for shipping. As a result, when it is first installed, the mattress can “off-gas” those VOCs. There is no health risk from this, but it can cause an unpleasant odor. This smell is temporary and should fade within a few hours to a few days, especially if your bedroom is well-ventilated. This issue doesn’t affect overall satisfaction for the majority of customers, but if you’re extremely sensitive to smells or VOCs, a foam mattress may not be the best option for you.
Sleep Trial Period
A sleep trial is a way of describing the return window for a mattress, and it lets you test out the bed in your own home to make sure that it is the right fit for you. Because you can’t feel them out before buying them, most online mattresses come with a risk-free trial of 100 nights or more, and we advise buying a product that comes with this type of return policy.
Adequate Bed Support
Your mattress is just one part of your bed; another part is your bed frame. Make sure that the frame you use is in accordance with the mattress warranty. This enhances performance and keeps your warranty valid. If you don’t already have a quality frame, include the cost of a new one in your budget.
Appropriate Bedding
Bedding is another aspect of setting up your bed that is worthy of your consideration. For example, breathable sheets or a lighter comforter may be helpful if you buy a memory foam mattress and are concerned about sleeping hot. You also want the best pillow that works in conjunction with your mattress to promote spinal alignment.
Search
