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Headshot of author Logan Foley
By Logan Foley
Why Trust Sleep Foundation

Viscoelastic polyurethane foam – better known as memory foam – was first developed by NASA engineers. It molds closely to your body when exposed to body heat and returns to its original shape as it cools. Memory foam has become a popular choice for mattresses because it provides cushioning comfort, takes pressure off of sensitive areas and pain points, and stays quiet at night while absorbing movements. 

Our testing team evaluated several memory foam mattresses and selected models based on their performance for specific types of sleepers, such as side sleepers and those who tend to run hot in bed. To learn more about our testing process, check out our guide to the best mattresses of 2024. If you’re shopping for memory foam beds on a budget, you can also check out our guide to the best cheap memory foam mattresses.

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Best Memory Foam Mattress of 2024

Nectar Premier

The Nectar Premier’s firmer-than-average feel makes it more supportive than many competing mattresses while offering generous contouring and pressure relief.

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In-Depth Reviews

“I like the Nectar Premier because the firmness level is just right. It’s plush but not too soft, and firm enough to provide the right amount of pressure relief. We also noticed better-than-average cooling, which is definitely a plus for hot sleepers.” – Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing

  • Pros

    1. Thick comfort layer provides deep contouring to relieve pressure

    2. Cooling gel infusions meant to dissipate excess body heat

    3. 365-night sleep trial

  • Cons

    1. Limited edge support can lead to perimeter sinkage

    2. People over 230 pounds may encounter resistance when moving across the surface

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$699 – $1,598

Trial Period

365 nights

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 Premier stands apart from the competition for its balance of support and contouring, quality construction, and approachable price-point.

How It Performed

Our testing team found the Premier most comfortable for side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds and back sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. Side sleepers receive plenty of cushioning for their shoulders and hips, improving their spinal alignment and alleviating discomfort throughout the body. Back sleepers should also rest comfortably without sinking too much around the midsection.

Hot sleepers on our testing team found the Premier much cooler than competing foam beds. We attributed this to the cooling cover and phase change material. Like other memory foam beds, the Premier excels at motion isolation. The foam layers absorb movement on each side of the bed and prevent it from transferring across the surface, which can curb nighttime disruptions for couples and co-sleepers. The mattress is completely silent, as well.

What It’s Made of

A comfort layer of gel-infused memory foam contours closely for a signature “body hug” feel. This layer also features phase change material engineered to react to your body heat and adjust the bed temperature throughout the night. Next is a transitional layer of high-density polyfoam, which helps evenly distribute weight. The high-density polyfoam support core improves spinal alignment by limiting sinkage. A quilted poly-blend cover encases the 13-inch mattress.

Nectar provides free ground delivery anywhere in the contiguous U.S. and backs the mattress with a 365-night sleep trial. You’ll also receive a lifetime warranty with your purchase.

“DreamCloud’s Memory Foam Mattress is remarkably balanced with plush layers beneath the surface and a sturdy support system to prevent you from sinking too much. Superior motion isolation, noise-free construction, and a subtle bounce make this mattress particularly well suited to couples and co-sleepers.” – Colin Simpson, Product Research Manager

  • Pros

    1. All-foam design ensures deep, cloud-like cradling

    2. Excellent motion isolation for couples

    3. All orders include a yearlong sleep trial

  • Cons

    1. Hot sleepers may find heat retention bothersome

    2. Strong off-gassing odor may linger for several days after unboxing

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$549 – $1,498

Trial Period

365 nights (30-night requirement)

If you’re shopping for a well-rounded mattress, the Memory Foam Mattress from DreamCloud is a good starting point thanks to its medium firm (6) feel, which strikes a nice balance between cushioning, support, and responsiveness. DreamCloud’s generous sleep trial and return policy also ensures ample time for testing out the bed in your own home and a full refund if you decide to go another route.

How It Performed

Most members of our testing team awarded favorable ratings to the mattress, with the highest marks coming from side sleepers over 130 pounds and back and stomach sleepers up to 130 pounds. We noted a gentle contour as the foam layers adapted to our figures and decent pushback from the underlying support layers. You may find the mattress too firm — this was the case for some of our side sleepers under 130 pounds — or too soft if you weigh more than 230 pounds and sleep on your back or stomach. That said, we’re confident most people will appreciate the “Goldilocks” construction.

Our performance tests show this mattress isolates motion exceptionally well. The foam layers collectively absorb movement to prevent ripples of motion transfer across the surface and reduce the potential for nighttime disruptions. Pressure relief proved to be another highlight, as most of our testers enjoyed the bed’s close cradling and felt little to no discomfort along their spines. A word of warning: off-gassing smells are fairly strong for the first few nights. Airing out the mattress in a well-ventilated room might be the right move before sleeping on it for the first time.

What It’s Made of

The mattress begins with memory foam and polyfoam quilted into a breathable cashmere blend cover. This is followed by another memory foam layer that softens when it comes into contact with heat, forming a close mold against your body. Cooling gel infused into the foam is intended to keep the surface cool. A polyfoam layer underneath provides additional cushioning, but is denser and provides some pushback. The support core consists of a dense polyfoam layer that stabilizes the entire mattress and helps maintain an even plane.

Below-average pricing and free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. make the mattress a solid option for shoppers with limited budgets. Your order includes a sleep trial that runs for 365 nights. If you decide to keep the mattress, DreamCloud further backs your purchase with a lifetime warranty.

“The Silk & Snow Mattress is an all-foam model with cooling gel infusions in the comfort system designed to regulate temperature throughout the night. As a hot sleeper on our product testing team, I enjoyed the mattress and gave it above-average marks for temperature neutrality.” – Lauren Fountain, Senior Product Editor

  • Pros

    1. All-foam construction deeply contours to the body to relieve pressure

    2. Gel infusions designed to regulate temperature

    3. Dense polyfoam layers prevent excessive sinkage

  • Cons

    1. Back and stomach sleepers may not receive enough support

    2. High potential for strong off-gassing odor

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium (5)

Price Range

$600 – $900

Trial Period

100 nights (30-night requirement)

All-foam mattresses have an adaptive feel that’s often 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.

“As a lightweight side sleeper, I like the Signature 12 because it has a plush surface that’s still supportive. Unlike traditional memory foam beds, it cradles you without sinking too much or trapping excess body heat. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for anyone who wants a comfortable and cool night’s sleep.” – Mark Horiuchi, Lead Product Tester

  • Pros

    1. Proprietary AirFoam intended to cushion the body without trapping heat

    2. Foam layers provide very good motion isolation and pressure relief

    3. Buyers can save money by opting out of the sleep trial

  • Cons

    1. Most back and stomach sleepers experience uncomfortable sinkage

    2. Limited perimeter support can make the edges feel unstable

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium (5)

Price Range

$870 – $1,875

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

The Nolah Signature 12 is slightly different from the other entries we included on this list. The mattress contains layers of adaptive polyfoam rather than traditional memory foam. This ensures comparable levels of pressure relief without the deep sinkage or excessive heat retention many people dislike about memory foam. Thanks to the polyfoam design, we recommend the Signature 12 for side sleepers and those who tend to sleep hot.

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.

The mattress comes in six standard sizes, as well as a split king for adjustable beds. 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.

“I like the GravityLux because it offers a range of firmness options that cater to most sleepers, and our product testing team as a whole found this mattress enjoyable. Even if you choose the softest model, the zoned support system ensures your back is positioned comfortably, encouraging proper spinal alignment.” – Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Testing Manager

  • Pros

    1. Foam comfort system provides exceptional pressure relief and motion isolation

    2. Breathable Tencel cover and open-cell foam keeps the mattress cool

    3. Choice of three firmness levels

  • Cons

    1. Limited edge support for most models

    2. Off-gassing odor may be overpowering at first

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Medium (5), Firm (7)

Price Range

$1,199 – $1,999

Trial Period

120 nights (30 night requirement)

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 body types and sleep positions regardless of firmness level, which should suit couples with different preferences.

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.

“The Leesa Original has a medium feel and thick comfort layers that balance cushioning and support for many sleepers. Our testing team found this combination is best suited for side and back sleepers. I liked lying on this mattress. The medium feel wasn’t too soft, but also not so firm that it felt like the mattress was pressing up against my hips and back.” – Logan Foley, Editorial Director

  • Pros

    1. Thick foam comfort system closely contours to the body to relieve pressure buildup

    2. All-foam construction absorbs motion transfer

    3. Excellent cushioning for most side sleepers

  • Cons

    1. May not provide sufficient support for stomach sleepers

    2. High off-gassing potential due to all-foam construction

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium (5)

Price Range

$849 – $1,599

Trial Period

100 nights (30 night requirement)

The Leesa Original has a medium (5) feel and a thick comfort system that may appeal to people who prioritize cushioning when it comes to comfortable mattresses. 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 knit 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 contoured 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 provided enough pushback to support the midsection and limit sagging for our testers.

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 a 30-night break-in period. Leesa backs the mattress with a 10-year warranty.

“I’m impressed with the Loom & Leaf because it feels surprisingly sturdy for an all-foam mattress. As a side sleeper myself, I appreciate the pressure relief this model offers. Dense, durable foam layers make this bed a great investment that’s sure to provide years of comfort and support.” – Lauren Fountain, Senior Product EEditor

  • Pros

    1. Available in two firmness options

    2. Thick memory foam layer excels at pressure relief

    3. Above-average support for an all-foam bed

  • Cons

    1. Expensive pricing for an all-foam model

    2. Strong initial odor can occur from off-gassing foam layers

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Price Range

$1,195 – $3,150

Trial Period

365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)

The Loom & Leaf Mattress from Saatva is an all-foam bed with above-average support. With higher quality construction than many competing foam beds, the durability of this model justifies the higher price tag.

How It Performed

The multiple foam layers cradle the body and ease pressure off sensitive joints. Side sleepers tend to put pressure on their shoulders and hips, so people who sleep in this position may find this model appealing, 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. The foam surface absorbs almost all motion, making this an excellent choice for those who wish to avoid disruptions from a sleep partner’s movements at night.

What It’s Made of

The mattress is available in 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. Customers receive a 365-night sleep trial as well as a lifetime warranty.

“The Nectar Premier Copper is an excellent option if you’re looking for a plush, adaptive mattress. While most foam models offer some cushioning, this one stands out with exceptionally deep contouring. As someone who weighs roughly 130 pounds, I highly recommend it for lighter-weight sleepers seeking relief from pressure points.” – Logan Foley, Editorial Director

  • Pros

    1. Thick memory foam layer provides exceptional pressure relief

    2. Mixed-foam design offers above-average motion isolation

    3. 365-night sleep trial

  • Cons

    1. Inadequate support for most back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds

    2. May lack responsiveness for couples

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$999 – $2,198

Trial Period

365 nights

All-foam beds are notorious for trapping heat, but the Nectar Premier Copper outperformed many competing models in our temperature control tests. 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.

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.

Many all-foam beds earn high marks in our motion isolation tests, and the Premier Copper is no exception. The thick foam layers absorbed most movement transfer and noise when we moved across the surface. This makes the mattress appealing to couples looking to minimize sleep disturbances.

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.

“The Bear Original is an affordable, well-balanced option. Back sleepers on our team — myself included — particularly loved the firm feel and sturdy overall support. I also enjoyed how the foam layers contoured evenly to my body.” – Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing

  • Pros

    1. Graphite and gel-infused foams designed to keep you cool

    2. All-foam design with a firm (7) feel provides light contouring

    3. 120-night trial period and lifetime warranty

  • Cons

    1. Limited cushioning for side sleepers

    2. Foam layers may emit strong odor after unboxing

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Firm (7)

Price Range

$511 – $1,099

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night break-in period)

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.

“As a side-sleeping member of our testing team, I enjoyed the all-foam Layla. It provides the right amount of pressure relief by cradling my hips and shoulders when lying on my side. The flippable design is surprisingly easy to manage, as it’s lighter than other reversible mattresses we’ve tested.” – Jackson Lindeke, Executive Director

  • Pros

    1. Flippable design offers 2-in-1 firmness

    2. Copper-infused foams conform closely and should stay cooler than conventional foam

    3. 120-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty

  • Cons

    1. People seeking a medium firm feel may not feel comfortable on either side

    2. Deep sinkage likely when moving across both sides

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)

Price Range

$749 – $1,249

Trial Period

120 nights

The Layla Memory Foam 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 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 breathable polyester, rayon, viscose, and poly-lycra blend fabric, 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 Memory Foam Mattress Video

Watch our video below to learn more about our lab’s top picks for memory foam mattress.

How We Test: Rigor, Data, and Sleeper Feedback

Every sleeper is unique when it comes to mattress needs and preferences. Our objective rating system takes a holistic approach to each mattress, analyzing different aspects of the overall design to pinpoint each model’s strengths and weaknesses.

We understand there’s a fundamental connection between the mattress you choose and how well you sleep. Our team of product experts evaluates each mattress in our Seattle-based Test Lab using the same four-part system. Guidelines for our testing process are detailed below.

Construction analysis: We begin by examining each mattress in terms of its design, making note of manufacturer specifications such as firmness and height. From there, we perform a detailed analysis to determine how materials and individual layers impact the bed’s ability to alleviate pressure, isolation motion, regulate temperature, and support your body.

Product testing: Using a slew of tools and tech resources, our team tests each mattress for performance in six individual categories. These tests also involve us lying on the mattress to gauge how comfortable and supportive it feels for different body types and sleep positions.

Field testing: In addition to our lab-based tests, we calculate ratings for mattresses based on feedback from field testers who use mattresses in their own homes. These testers provide data based on their experience with each bed over the course of several weeks.

User testing: Feedback from verified mattress owners also plays a role in our evaluation process. We collect data from surveys and product reviews to ensure our mattress ratings reflect real-world experiences.

Expert Tested. Sleeper Approved.

Over the past eight years, our Seattle-based Test Lab has performed hands-on tests on more than 4,000 sleep products — and nearly 2,000 of them are mattresses. 

As product experts, we stay up to date on the latest news in sleep science and product trends. We use this knowledge to fuel our data-backed recommendations. Many of our testers have worked directly with mattress manufacturers and visited actual mattress factories. On occasion, a sleep health expert might stop by to tweak a firmness rating.

When we test a mattress, we collect data across six major performance categories and combine these results with real-world feedback. We use tools and tech to monitor features like heat retention, motion isolation, and pressure mapping. In order to ensure our findings are inclusive of all sleepers, our team consists of people with varying body types and sleep positions.

Mattresses aren’t one-size-fits-all. The perfect bed for you is going to depend on general points like your body weight and sleeping position, as well as unique points like if you have back pain, if you sleep hot at night, or if you just like the feel of latex over memory foam. Our goal at the Test Lab is to help take the guesswork out of your mattress-buying process.

So How Did We Pick the Best Memory Foam Mattress?

To compile this list, we focused on all-foam mattresses with layers of memory foam or comparable foam materials. Other mattress types, such as memory foam hybrids, did not make the cut. Our testing process involves each team member lying on the mattress to determine how comfortable and supportive it feels for different body types and sleep positions. We also use pressure-mapping pads, thermal “heat guns,” and other tools to measure performance in different testing categories. This list of the best memory foam mattresses represents the top of the class during our tests.

Should You Buy a Memory Foam Mattress?

Memory foam mattresses are great for people who want a cushy, close hugging feeling from their mattress. The foam’s adaptive feel and even contouring are often comforting for people with aches, pains, and pressure points in their shoulders, lower back, or hips. Side sleepers get plenty of cushioning for their shoulders and hips, two areas where pressure usually builds. Lastly, couples sleep better together thanks to memory foam’s superior motion-isolating properties.

Sleep Position and Body Weight

Side sleepers tend to feel comfortable on softer memory foam mattresses that conform closely to the body. The side position often requires plush cushioning to prevent pressure buildup in the shoulders and hips. Most back and stomach sleepers need a firmer memory foam mattress to minimize sinkage around the midsection and prevent neck and lower back strain. Weight is another important factor — you should look for a softer memory foam mattress if you weigh less than 130 pounds, and a firmer model if you weigh more.

We use a 10-point scale to evaluate a bed’s firmness, with 1 being the softest possible and 10 being the firmest. We’ve put together a quick reference of firmness recommendations based on your sleeping position and body type here:

WeightSide SleepersBack SleepersStomach Sleepers
Less than 130 lbs.Soft (3) to Medium Soft (4)Medium Soft (4) to Medium (5)Medium (5) to Medium Firm (6)
130 to 230 lbs.Medium (5) to Medium Firm (6)Medium Firm (6) to Firm (7-8)Medium Firm (6) to Firm (7-8)
More than 230 lbs.Medium Firm (6) to Firm (7-8)Firm (7-8) to Extra Firm (9)Firm (7-8) to Extra Firm (9)

Relief for Joint or Back Pain

Memory foam molds to your body for deep cushioning and a cradling effect many describe as “cloud-like.” Memory foam evenly distributes your weight, promotes proper spinal alignment, and reduces pressure in sensitive areas like the shoulders, lower back, and hips. People with medical conditions like arthritis and sciatica can benefit from memory foam’s pain-relieving capabilities, but choosing the right mattress firmness based on your sleep position and weight is the key to comfortable sleep.

Do You Share the Bed?

Memory foam absorbs movement, so if you share your bed with a partner, a memory foam mattress can reduce movement across the surface when one of you changes positions or gets up during the night. Many couples like memory foam beds because it’s harder to accidentally wake each other up at night.

What to Consider When Shopping For a Memory Foam Mattress

When choosing a memory foam mattress, there are a few considerations to make. The most important factors include the following.

Contouring and Pressure Relief

A mattress that contours closely can alleviate pressure for people who weigh less than 130 pounds, especially if they sleep on their side. Back and stomach sleepers, as well as those who weigh 130 pounds or more, should consider a memory foam mattress with light to moderate contouring. The right amount of contouring helps ensure minimal sinkage and less pressure buildup in the shoulders, lower back, and hips.

Motion Isolation and Noise

A mattress isolates motion by absorbing movement and preventing it from transferring to other areas of the sleep surface. Memory foam is considered one of the best mattress materials for motion isolation, so co-sleepers often get the rest they need on these models. Most foam mattresses are also completely silent when bearing weight and won’t produce the creaking sounds associated with innerspring and hybrid models.

Temperature Regulation

Memory foam tends to trap heat, so most foam mattresses don’t offer the same level of temperature control as more breathable mattress types such as latex, innerspring, and hybrid models. Cooling gel, copper, graphite, and other cooling materials can be infused into memory foam to reduce heat retention and maintain a comfortable surface temperature. Covers made from breathable fabrics and heat-dispersing phase change material can also improve temperature regulation for memory foam mattresses.

“There’s this cushy feel you get from memory foam that I haven’t experienced with other mattress materials. As someone who deals with back pain from time to time, I love how it hugs my body as soon as I lie down and soothes all of my sore spots.”
Headshot of author Logan Foley
Logan Foley
Editorial Director

Edge Support and Ease of Movement

Memory foam responds slowly to movement and sinks beneath your weight, making it harder to move across the bed’s surface without feeling stuck. Edge support is another performance area where many memory foam mattresses struggle, making it hard to sit on or lay close to the edge of the bed. You should consider an innerspring, hybrid, or latex mattress if ease of movement and edge support are your top priorities.

Pricing, Trials, and Warranties

The average queen size memory foam mattress costs $700 to $1,200. Mattresses from luxury brands and models with thicker layers may cost more. Most memory foam mattresses sold online come with sleep trials spanning at least 90 nights. You can test the mattress in your bedroom and — in most cases — return it for a full refund if you aren’t satisfied. After the trial ends, your mattress should be covered under a warranty for at least 10 years. Warranties guarantee a replacement or repairs if your mattress has a manufacturing defect.

Online Ordering and Delivery

The majority of today’s memory foam mattresses are sold online, making them more convenient to buy than those sold in stores. Online mattresses also tend to be more affordable than buying one in-store. 
Most online mattress brands offer free ground delivery, where the mattress is vacuum-sealed in a box and shipped directly to your doorstep. Foam beds tend to be the lightest, but in our experience it’s best to have at least one other person or moving equipment to help you move the box.

Once it’s inside, you’ll need to unbox and unwrap the mattress, then allow it to fully expand — this may take up to 24 hours. Your memory foam mattress may give off a “foamy” odor for the first few days after unboxing, but the smells eventually dissipate. If you’re sensitive to smells, adding airflow with windows and fans can usually help the smell dissipate faster. Some brands offer White Glove delivery for an extra fee, which includes full setup and removal of your old mattress.

What Does a Memory Foam Mattress Feel Like?

Memory foam softens when it comes into contact with body heat and forms a cradle around your body’s curves. Since memory foam responds slowly to movement, you may notice the comfort layers sinking beneath your weight as your body settles. The cradling sensation of memory foam is usually described as “relaxing” “cloud-like” and “cushy” by many.

Some people find memory foam mattresses uncomfortable because they tend to sleep hotter and the “hugging” feeling leaves some people feeling like they’re “stuck” in the bed compared to latex, hybrid, and innerspring mattresses.

Dive Deeper: In-Depth Mattress Guides

Our team tests mattresses to determine the best options for different types of sleepers. To see how we’ve ranked mattresses in other performance categories, check out the product guides below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the downsides of a memory foam mattress?

Common complaints about memory foam mattresses include sinking in too much, weak edge support, limited bounce, and sleeping hot. Mattresses with firmer designs, zoned layers, and cooling materials can avoid these issues. Some people don’t like the hugging feeling of memory foam, though for others, this is a major selling point.

Are memory foam mattresses too hot?

Foam mattresses tend to absorb and trap heat more than other mattress types. This can be an issue for hot sleepers, pregnant people, and anyone who lives in a hot or humid area. Cooling materials like gel, copper, and graphite can be infused into memory foam to reduce heat retention. Models with breathable cover materials may also sleep relatively cool.

How long do memory foam mattresses last?

The average memory foam mattress needs to be replaced after six to seven years of continuous use. Memory foam mattresses are less durable than most latex, hybrid, and airbed models. You should consider retiring your mattress if you notice deep indentations on the surface, or if you frequently wake up feeling sore or stiff.

Can you put a memory foam mattress on a box spring?

Box springs are not recommended for memory foam mattresses. Although box springs are suitable for mattresses with rigid structures like innersprings and hybrids, they do not provide the right support for foam models. You should use a solid foundation like a platform bed with your memory foam mattress instead.

What is the best memory foam mattress for side sleepers?

Most side sleepers prefer softer, more adaptive memory foam mattresses (around a 4 or 5 on our firmness scale) with ample cushioning for the shoulders and hips. Beds like these help improve spinal alignment and alleviate soreness and pressure in these areas.

However, side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds may need a firmer model (around a 6 or 7 on our firmness scale) that won’t sink too much beneath their midsections.

What memory foam mattresses are good for sleepers with back pain?

People with back pain should consider memory foam mattresses with thick, adaptive comfort layers that contour closely. This cradling effect can cushion sore spots in the upper and lower back. Sleepers with back pain weighing less than 130 pounds often prefer softer mattresses, while those who weigh more may feel more comfortable on a firmer model.

Still have questions?

Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.

Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

Learn more about our Editorial Team

Trouble sleeping?

Answer these 5 easy questions to discover your perfect mattress

Trouble sleeping?

Answer these 5 easy questions to discover your perfect mattress

What position do you sleep in?

Side icon

Side

Side icon
Back icon

Back

Back icon
Stomach icon

Stomach

Stomach icon

Do you experience any pain while sleeping?

Back and/or side pain icon

Back and/or side pain

Back and/or side pain icon
Neck and/or shoulder pain icon

Neck and/or shoulder pain

Neck and/or shoulder pain icon
Little to no pain icon

Little to no pain

Little to no pain icon

Do you have any material preferences?

Innerspring icon

Innerspring

Innerspring icon
Foam icon

Foam

Foam icon
No preference/ Other icon

No preference/ Other

Do you sleep hot?

Yes icon

Yes

Yes icon
No icon

No

No icon

Do you sleep with a partner?

Yes icon

Yes

Yes icon
No icon

No

No icon

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