Best Memory Foam Mattresses
A guide to finding the best memory foam mattress and understanding the benefits of sleeping on this popular material.
Memory foam mattresses have gained a ton of popularity in recent years, and with good reason. Memory foam provides sleepers with a close-to-the-body contour that improves overall support and pressure relief.
As with all materials, memory foam varies from mattress to mattress. Some memory foams are extra-firm, some have cooling technologies, and some are pretty basic. This guide will help you decide if a memory foam mattress is right for you, and which mattress will suit your needs best.
Best Memory Foam Mattresses
- Nerd’s Pick – Nectar Original
- Best Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress – Helix Midnight
- Best Medium-Firm Memory Foam Mattress – Saatva Modern Foam
- Best Memory Foam Mattress for Heavyweight Sleepers – WinkBeds GravityLux
- Best Memory Foam Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nolah Original
- Best Affordable Memory Foam Mattress – Leesa Original
- Best Luxury Memory Foam Mattress – TEMPUR-breeze
- Best Memory Foam Mattress for Combination Sleepers – Bear Original
- Best Memory Foam Bed in a Box – Casper
- Best Memory Foam Mattress for Couples – Puffy
Chosen by Experts and Advocates
Here at Mattress Nerd, our team of certified sleep science coaches has tested dozens of memory foam mattresses. As such, we know exactly what to look for when grading a new product. Performance factors such as cooling, motion isolation, and pressure relief are all taken into account. The memory foam mattresses on this list were chosen because they excelled in one or more of these fields. To learn more, check out our review process.
Disclosure: By clicking on the product links in this article, Mattress Nerd may receive a commission fee at no cost to you, the reader. Read full disclosure statement.
Best Memory Foam Mattresses Video Review
Nerd’s Pick: Nectar Original Mattress
Nectar Mattress
The Nectar is a value memory foam mattress that excels at providing pressure relief and minimizing motion transfer. The medium-firm feel is ideal for cradling pressure points. Plus, it comes with a yearlong trial period and Lifetime warranty.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
The Nectar is a value memory foam mattress that excels at providing pressure relief and minimizing motion transfer. The medium-firm feel is ideal for cradling pressure points. Plus, it comes with a yearlong trial period and Lifetime warranty.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
The Nectar is a value memory foam mattress that excels at providing pressure relief and minimizing motion transfer. The medium-firm feel is ideal for cradling pressure points. Plus, it comes with a yearlong trial period and Lifetime warranty.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar is a popular brand that provides excellent value for those who are looking for a memory foam mattress. The Nectar mattress features five layers of foam that provide sleepers with the utmost comfort, cooling, durability, and support.
The gel memory foam is sure to keep all sleepers cool, but this mattress performs particularly well for side sleepers and back sleepers. It is a great mattress for kids, couples, seniors, and lightweight combination sleepers, as it’s pretty easy to move around on.
Read our full Nectar Mattress Review to learn more.
Best Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress: Helix Midnight
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight provides tailored support and a medium-firm feel geared toward back sleepers. The hybrid construction promotes airflow to keep you cool, while the foam layers provide cradling and support where you need it.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight provides tailored support and a medium-firm feel geared toward back sleepers. The hybrid construction promotes airflow to keep you cool, while the foam layers provide cradling and support where you need it.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight provides tailored support and a medium-firm feel geared toward back sleepers. The hybrid construction promotes airflow to keep you cool, while the foam layers provide cradling and support where you need it.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
While the Helix Midnight isn’t made entirely of memory foam, the layer of Memory Plus Foam on top of the mattress combines with the bed’s breathable coils to offer a supportive sleep experience with the comfortable, cradling feel of foam.
The Midnight, which comes in at a 6/10 on our 1–10 firmness scale, is the best-selling bed in the Helix line. Sleepers who love the feel of foam but want extra edge support and breathability should appreciate the hybrid design of the Helix Midnight.
Read our full Helix Midnight Mattress Review to learn more.
Best Medium-Firm Memory Foam Mattress: Saatva Modern Foam
The Saatva Modern Foam memory foam mattress combines responsive latex with contouring memory foam. It has a medium-firm feel that's best for back and stomach sleepers under 230 lbs. It's also lower cost than the Loom & Leaf memory foam bed by Saatva.
The Saatva Modern Foam memory foam mattress combines responsive latex with contouring memory foam. It has a medium-firm feel that's best for back and stomach sleepers under 230 lbs. It's also lower cost than the Loom & Leaf memory foam bed by Saatva.
The Saatva Modern Foam memory foam mattress combines responsive latex with contouring memory foam. It has a medium-firm feel that's best for back and stomach sleepers under 230 lbs. It's also lower cost than the Loom & Leaf memory foam bed by Saatva.
Saatva Modern Foam
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 Nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Saatva Modern Foam
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Saatva Modern Foam
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 Nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
Overall, the Saatva Modern Foam feels like a classic foam mattress except that you stay elevated on top the mattress without it swallowing you, and it still cuddles the contours of your body. The mattress won’t retain heat like older models of memory foam mattresses because there are latex and gel layers and an egg crate layer that allows air to flow through and take away hot spots.
Read our full Saatva Modern Foam Mattress Review to learn more.
Best Memory Foam Mattress for Heavyweight Sleepers: WinkBeds GravityLux
The GravityLux is a pressure-relieving, memory foam mattress that comes in three firmness options. It has a zoned transitional layer to provide enhanced support to the lower back and hips. The gel-infused quilted foam also sleeps cool.
The GravityLux is a pressure-relieving, memory foam mattress that comes in three firmness options. It has a zoned transitional layer to provide enhanced support to the lower back and hips. The gel-infused quilted foam also sleeps cool.
The GravityLux is a pressure-relieving, memory foam mattress that comes in three firmness options. It has a zoned transitional layer to provide enhanced support to the lower back and hips. The gel-infused quilted foam also sleeps cool.
WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Heavyweight sleepers are likely familiar with the struggle of finding a supportive, stable mattress that keeps their spine properly positioned. While the structure of memory foam sometimes lets down heavyweight sleepers looking for extra support, the WinkBeds GravityLux mattress is an all-foam pick that’s specifically designed for heavier bodies.
The mattress uses Zoned Progression foam to help keep heavier parts of the body elevated and aligned on the mattress, while the bed’s TENCEL cover and AirCell memory foam help keep hot sleepers cool.
Read our full WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress Review to learn more. Not sure the WinkBeds Mattress is for you? Check out our list of the best mattresses for heavyweight sleepers for more great options.
Nolah Original – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Side Sleeper
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
The Nolah Original 10” mattress is made of three layers of AirFoam and wrapped in a soft, breathable viscose fabric cover that helps moisture evaporate to keep you dry and cool.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
The Nolah Original 10” mattress is made of three layers of AirFoam and wrapped in a soft, breathable viscose fabric cover that helps moisture evaporate to keep you dry and cool.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
The Nolah Original 10” mattress is made of three layers of AirFoam and wrapped in a soft, breathable viscose fabric cover that helps moisture evaporate to keep you dry and cool.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
As a medium-firm mattress, the Nolah earned a score of 6/10 on our Mattress Nerd firmness scale, so it should keep most side and back sleepers satisfied. The responsive Airfoam used in the Nolah also helps combination sleepers move around easily.
The Nolah is a great high-value option for hot sleepers who still love the balanced feel of an all-foam bed. Made with a TENCEL cover and aerated AirFoam, the Nolah anticipates and mitigates the classic “memory foam sleeps hot” complaint. Memory foam normally traps heat, but the air channels in Nolah’s foam allow that heat to escape.
Check out our Nolah Original Mattress Review to learn more! Not sure the Nolah Mattress is for you? Check out our list of the best mattresses for side sleepers for more great options.
Leesa Original – Best Affordable Memory Foam Mattress
Leesa Original Mattress
The Leesa mattress adapts to all sleep positions and most body types. With its cooling foam and additional layers that both hug and support you, it's no wonder customers love sleeping on their Leesa.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-soft: 5.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Leesa Original Mattress
The Leesa mattress adapts to all sleep positions and most body types. With its cooling foam and additional layers that both hug and support you, it's no wonder customers love sleeping on their Leesa.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-soft: 5.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Leesa Original Mattress
The Leesa mattress adapts to all sleep positions and most body types. With its cooling foam and additional layers that both hug and support you, it's no wonder customers love sleeping on their Leesa.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-soft: 5.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Leesa is an all-foam mattress with bouncy and responsive layers. It’s a great affordable option because of its medium firmness; it works for many different types of sleepers.
This bed offers great pressure relief to side and back sleepers, so they should wake up pain-free. Not only does this bed fall at under $1,000 for a queen, but you also get a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty with your mattress purchase.
Read our full Leesa Mattress Review to learn more. Not sure the Leesa Mattress is for you? Check out our list of the best affordable mattress for more great options.
Best Luxury Memory Foam Mattress: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-breeze
The TEMPUR-PRObreeze mattress is lab-engineered to manage the climate between your mattress and your bedding to provide a cooler, deeper sleep. Plus, it's offered in a both an all-foam version and a hybrid version with coils.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The TEMPUR-PRObreeze mattress is lab-engineered to manage the climate between your mattress and your bedding to provide a cooler, deeper sleep. Plus, it's offered in a both an all-foam version and a hybrid version with coils.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The TEMPUR-PRObreeze mattress is lab-engineered to manage the climate between your mattress and your bedding to provide a cooler, deeper sleep. Plus, it's offered in a both an all-foam version and a hybrid version with coils.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.TEMPUR-PRObreeze Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
90 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
TEMPUR-PRObreeze Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
90 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
TEMPUR-PRObreeze Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
90 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Tempur-Pedic mattresses are the epitome of luxury with their high-quality foam and reputation for comfort. The TEMPUR-breeze mattress comes in many versions: memory foam, innerspring, hybrid, soft, firm, and medium. There are a lot to choose from, so this bed should work for a variety of people. One thing all the TEMPUR-breeze models have in common is that they sleep exceptionally cool for all-foam beds.
Read our full TEMPUR-breeze Mattress Review to learn more. Not sure the TEMPUR-breeze Mattress is for you? Check out our list of the best luxury mattresses for more great options.
Bear Original – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Combination Sleepers
Bear Mattress
Designed for people with active lifestyles, the Original Bear mattress is Bear’s flagship model. It features foams that work well for sleepers of all positions and sizes. The bed's standout cover includes Celliant, which converts body heat into infrared energy to promote muscle recovery.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Mattress
Designed for people with active lifestyles, the Original Bear mattress is Bear’s flagship model. It features foams that work well for sleepers of all positions and sizes. The bed's standout cover includes Celliant, which converts body heat into infrared energy to promote muscle recovery.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Mattress
Designed for people with active lifestyles, the Original Bear mattress is Bear’s flagship model. It features foams that work well for sleepers of all positions and sizes. The bed's standout cover includes Celliant, which converts body heat into infrared energy to promote muscle recovery.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The Bear mattress delivers on providing a surface for athletes to rest and recover. The responsive foam makes the surface of the Bear easy to move around on, so you can seamlessly change positions.
From the Celliant cover to the graphite memory foam, this bed is also a great option for hot sleepers who love memory foam. Plus you get 100 nights to check it out for yourself.
Read our full Bear Mattress Review to learn more. Not sure the Bear Mattress is for you? Check out our list of the best mattress for combination sleepers to see other great options.
Best Memory Foam Bed in a Box: Casper
The Casper is the brand's flagship model. Newly redesigned, it features Zoned Support that gives your back, hips, and shoulders the extra boost they need to keep the spine aligned. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. "From the delivery of the box to the magical unfolding of the king size mattress to the first time laying on the bed, all smiles here! I have traveled for work for years, often sleeping on different beds at different hotels night after night."
The Casper is the brand's flagship model. Newly redesigned, it features Zoned Support that gives your back, hips, and shoulders the extra boost they need to keep the spine aligned. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. "From the delivery of the box to the magical unfolding of the king size mattress to the first time laying on the bed, all smiles here! I have traveled for work for years, often sleeping on different beds at different hotels night after night."
The Casper is the brand's flagship model. Newly redesigned, it features Zoned Support that gives your back, hips, and shoulders the extra boost they need to keep the spine aligned. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. "From the delivery of the box to the magical unfolding of the king size mattress to the first time laying on the bed, all smiles here! I have traveled for work for years, often sleeping on different beds at different hotels night after night."
Casper Original Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Financing Options
Casper Original Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Financing Options
Casper Original Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Financing Options
The original mattress from Casper has been rigorously tested and re-designed to create a cool memory foam mattress that works for all sleep positions—something that’s rare in any mattress!
The all-foam, polyurethane layer provides the bounce of latex but the cradling of foam that reduces pressure. Casper’s top-notch transition layer earned it a perfect score in responsiveness, meaning it bounces back quickly, making it perfect for those who move a lot at night. We recommend the Casper to anyone looking for a catch-all mattress that’s sure to suit you.
Read our full Casper Mattress Review to learn more. Not sure the Casper Mattress is for you? Check out our list of the best bed in box mattress for more great options.
Best Memory Foam Mattress for Couples: Puffy
The Original Puffy is a three-layer foam mattress made with cooling gel-infused memory foam and motion isolating base foams. It has a medium-firm feel that blends contouring support with cushioning comfort.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Original Puffy is a three-layer foam mattress made with cooling gel-infused memory foam and motion isolating base foams. It has a medium-firm feel that blends contouring support with cushioning comfort.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Original Puffy is a three-layer foam mattress made with cooling gel-infused memory foam and motion isolating base foams. It has a medium-firm feel that blends contouring support with cushioning comfort.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Puffy Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
101 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Puffy Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
101 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Puffy Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
101 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
If you sleep with a partner at night, you may know all too well the struggle of waking up from a partner’s movements. The Puffy is excellent at motion isolation, which makes it an ideal foam mattress for couples who tend to sleep light and wake up easily.
While it’s not best for heavyweight sleepers, (if you’re in that category, it’s generally best to look for an ultra-firm foam mattress or a mattress with coils) this mattress should keep couples happy while supporting side and back sleepers. The bed is also sold at a great price point for budget shoppers.
Read our full Puffy Mattress Review for more details. Not sure the Puffy Mattress is for you? Check out our list of the best mattresses for couples for more great options.
What is Memory Foam?
We get it, memory foam sounds amazing. It’s out-of-this-world comfortable, it conforms exactly to your shape, and it springs back to its original form within seconds. It was developed by NASA for goodness’ sake! While all of these things are true about memory foam, there are some other things you should know about it before making your big purchase.
In this guide we’ve compiled some quick hit considerations, as well as more comprehensive descriptions of everything that makes memory foam tick, in order to help inform your shopping process. If by the end you still want more information, check out our article on “What is Memory Foam?“
Memory Foam vs. Other Mattress Types
If you’re looking for a new mattress, the first question is often what type of mattress is best for you. There are four main types of mattresses: memory foam, latex, hybrid, and innerspring. Memory foam is one of the most popular, but is it the best option for you? Let’s decide!
Memory Foam vs. Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses are constructed with a support layer of innerspring coils and a top layer of memory foam or latex. The combination often results in the durability and breathability of a spring mattress, plus the cushioning of a foam mattress. Because their construction requires metal coils, however, hybrids tend to be more expensive than memory foam beds. Check out our video and article on memory foam vs. hybrid mattresses for more information.
Memory Foam vs. Latex Mattresses
Similar to memory foam, latex mattresses are built with a dense base at the bottom and softer layers at the top. Because of its inherent bounciness, latex usually isn’t as pressure-relieving or conforming as memory foam, but it is more responsive. Some of the best latex mattresses utilize only environmentally-friendly materials in their constructions—like organic cotton and sustainably sourced rubber. Head over to our article on memory foam vs. latex for more info.
Memory Foam vs. Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses tend to be the firmest of the four main mattress types—a quality that some might find unappealing in a mattress. More firmness, however, usually works well for stomach sleepers and heavier-than-average people, as it provides better support for them.
Innerspring mattresses are often good candidates for memory foam mattress toppers, as the combination can create a similar experience to a hybrid. Still, it’s safe to bet that memory foam will provide more of the spinal alignment necessary to combat back pain.
Related: Foam vs. Springs
Who Should Buy a Memory Foam Mattress?
- People with pain concerns, such as back or shoulder aches, may find that the cloud-like feel of memory foam is just what the doctor ordered. The pressure relief that soft foam layers provide can help reduce the stress placed on sensitive areas like the hips and shoulders, and the contouring ability of the foam adapts to your body’s specific shape, promoting proper spinal alignment.
- Sleepers with certain allergies, specifically latex, will want to avoid mattresses containing that material. Memory foam beds are a great alternative for people who still want the comfort and pain relief that many latex mattresses provide.
- People with restless sleep partners are probably familiar with the feeling of being woken up from a deep sleep by their partners’ movements. Fortunately, memory foam does a wonderful job of absorbing motion in its dense layers. That means you can sleep soundly while your partner shifts positions to their heart’s content.
Who May Not Love a Memory Foam Mattress?
- People who sleep very hot should be aware that memory foam often sleeps warmer than other mattress materials, like latex and coils. That’s because the thick foam layers can trap heat instead of allowing it to escape. That said, many companies have made vast improvements in memory foam cooling technology, such as gel and copper infusions, that help to regulate temperature. You can also use accessories such as cooling sheets to help keep things chill. If keeping cool is your biggest concern, take a look at the best cooling mattresses.
Related: Tips to Not Sleep Hot
- People who don’t like to feel “hugged” by their mattress. The main selling point of memory foam—it’s conforming feel—may be a drawback to some folks. If you prefer to feel “on top” of your mattress (rather than “in” it), then something with a bit more firmness may be the way to go. Check out our best firm mattresses for some good fits.
What Are The Benefits of Memory Foam?
There are a number of substantial benefits from sleeping on a memory foam mattress. Here are a few of the most important for healthy sleep.
Pressure Relief
Pressure point relief is one of the most substantial benefits of memory foam when it comes to pain relief. As a matter of fact, memory foam has long been used in healthcare for this exact reason. For example, wheelchair seats made of memory foam were made to reduce the pressure put on the bum from long-term sitting.
By reducing the pressure put on joints, people are more comfortable while sleeping. This means that they’re less likely to toss and turn throughout the night or wake up with aches and pains.
Motion Isolation
Another benefit of memory foam is decreased motion transfer. If you or the person you share a bed with moves around a lot in their sleep, motion isolation becomes very important to prevent disrupting your sleeping partner.
Due to the nature of the material, there is minimal motion transferred from one side of the bed to another. This means that even if one person is moving around in the bed, the other person is less likely to feel any type of disturbance.
Another factor to consider when sleeping with a partner is edge support. If you plan to use the whole surface of the bed, you may want to consider looking for a memory foam mattress with reinforced edges.
Related: Best Mattresses for Couples
Proper Spine Alignment
Another important benefit of memory foam is its ability to evenly distribute body weight and support natural alignment. When we sleep, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy posture (much like when we’re awake and sitting at a desk). Memory foam hugs you in all the right places, cradling your hips and shoulders to prevent stress on the joints, while simultaneously supporting the torso to keep the spine in proper alignment. For more information, check out our article on spine alignment and sleep.
Contour & Responsiveness
Arguably the most desired trait in a memory foam mattress is its ability to contour and respond to any body type and sleeping position. The nature of memory foam is to accommodate any person’s sleeping position and body type by adapting to different shapes and movements.
Compatible With Any Bed Frame
Memory foam mattresses tend to work well with just about any type of frame. This includes platform bases, new box springs, slatted foundations, and even adjustable beds. Since the foam is able to flex and adjust its shape, it turns out that it is actually a very good choice for those types of beds.
Easy to Maintain
Finally, memory foam also happens to be very easy to care for. In fact, most of the time, the only real maintenance that might need to be done is occasional vacuuming. With a foam mattress, you don’t have to worry about things like flipping and rotating the mattress. You also don’t have to worry about popped springs poking your back. For more mattress care tips, read up on how to clean your mattress.
Types of Memory Foam
In addition to knowing the benefits memory foam mattresses can offer, it is also important to make sure you have an understanding of the various types of memory foam mattresses out there. The most common and widely used is traditional, viscoelastic foam. All variations of memory foam have been developed to solve the most common issue found in traditional memory foam—it sleeps hot.
Traditional Memory Foam
Also known as viscoelastic memory foam, traditional memory foam mattresses are the most widely available. They are made of polyurethane-based foam known for its durability, support, and comfort.
Gel Memory Foam
Gel memory foam is a relatively new development in the world of memory foam mattresses. In a gel-memory mattress, cooling gel is injected into the foam layers to prevent body heat from getting trapped. The feel and durability of gel-memory foam is comparable to traditional foam.
Open-Cell Memory Foam
Open-cell memory foam refers to a type of foam whose cell walls have been broken down to increase airflow and reduce the amount of heat retention, keeping you cooler throughout the night. Open-cell foam is less dense than traditional, closed-cell foam, so keep that in mind when considering the durability of your memory foam mattress.
Copper-Infused Memory Foam
In conjunction with gel-memory foam and open-cell memory foam, the copper-infused foam was created to help keep foam mattresses cool. This type of foam is embedded with thin copper pieces. Copper is known for its cooling properties, as well as, increasing blood circulation and reducing stiffness. Copper-infused memory foam is typically used in mattresses designed for athletes and active adults.
Hybrid Foam Mattress
While hybrid mattresses are not strictly memory foam, many have memory foam comfort layers that are added on top of an innerspring support layer for extra comfort and contouring. If you like the feel of memory foam, but need extra support, a hybrid foam mattress may be a good option for you. Check out our best hybrid mattress reviews if you’re interested.
Things to Consider When Buying a Memory Foam Mattresses
Like shopping for any product, it’s important to consider the trial period, return policy, and performance of the product. In addition to memory foam types and benefits, here are additional considerations to make when picking a new mattress.
Mattress Size
One of the most important things to consider is the size of your mattress. When choosing which size mattress suits your preferences, consider the dimensions of the room, who you sleep with, your body type, and if you are an active sleeper.
Sleeping Position
Many mattress manufacturers have worked with their memory foams to suit as wide a range of sleeping positions as possible, but each mattress is bound to work a little better (or worse) for certain positions. Here’s what to look for when shopping for your sleeping position.
Back Sleepers: Typically, back sleepers fare well on any kind of memory foam, as long as it’s not too soft. Look for a foam that fills in the space under your lower back and keeps your whole body supported. Make sure your hips don’t sink deeper into the mattress than your shoulders. Our list of the best mattresses for back sleepers includes a couple of options with memory foam.
Stomach Sleepers: Shopping for this position is all about lumbar support. Pay close attention to how well the mattress keeps your hips lifted in alignment with your shoulders, and look out for any reviews that say the sleeper woke up with lower back pain. The best mattresses for stomach sleepers are medium-firm or firm and keep sleepers more “on top” of the bed.
Side Sleepers: Some of the best mattresses for side sleepers are made with memory foam, since it does such a good job of contouring around pressure points. Look for a memory foam mattresses that evenly distributes your body weight and doesn’t jam your shoulders and hips.
Combination Sleepers: The main concern for combo sleepers is the feeling of being “stuck” in their mattress. These folks should pay close attention to how responsive a mattress says is, and how it performs for your dominant sleeping position. If you sink deep into the mattress, you may want to keep looking.
Related: Best Mattresses for Combination Sleepers
Sleep Trial Period
Most mattress companies offer a generous trial period for customers, so they can decide whether or not their new mattress is a good fit. It takes an average of 30 days to break in a new mattress, so keep that in mind during the first few days or weeks with your new bed. If you want to experience memory foam but don’t want to commit to a mattress trial period, you could always purchase a memory foam pillow to see how it feels.
Related: What is a Sleep Trial?
Off-Gassing
When you buy a memory foam mattress, especially from an online bed-in-a-box retailer, you will likely experience a “new mattress” smell when you first unbox your mattress. This is called off-gassing, and it’s completely normal.
The way that memory foam, or polyurethane foam, is made involves various chemicals, and after being rolled up and compressed in a box, the foam tends to release some of that “chemical” smell. This is safe for consumers and should not alarm you too much. If the smell doesn’t go away within a few days, you may want to contact the seller.
If you’re still concerned, check out our article, “Is Memory Foam Safe?“
Price
You can find a quality memory foam mattress that will last up to 10 years for under $1,000. Of course, the mattress size, style, and other factors will affect the final price. There are a couple of memory foam options in our roundups for best mattresses under $1,000, best affordable mattresses, and best luxury mattresses.
Memory Foam Density & ILD
Foam Density
Make sure to pay attention to the density of the foam in the mattress you’re considering. Foam density corresponds to durability, with higher-density foams lasting longer. Many luxury foam mattresses have 5 lb or greater density foams. Lower density foams will provide cushion, but they won’t last as long.
Also consider the foam’s mmHg, which is a measurement that indicates how well the foam cushions pressure points. Ideally, you want a mattress with 32mmHg or lower to get good pressure relief.
Indentation Load-Deflection (ILD)
ILD is a measurement that indicates how firm or soft a foam is by measuring the weight (in pounds) it takes to compress the foam to a certain point. If the ILD number is high, the foam will be firmer, and if it’s low, the foam will be softer. Typically, an ILD under 25 is considered soft, and an ILD over 40 is firm.
FAQ
How Much Do Memory Foam Mattresses Cost?
Memory foam mattresses range in price more than any other mattress. There are a few factors that determine the price of memory foam: where it’s made, special features, thickness, and density to name a few. If a mattress is made in the USA, it will probably be a little more pricey than if it’s manufactured overseas. The same is true for mattresses made with thicker layers of memory foam or foam with a higher density.
How Long Will My Memory Foam Mattress Last?
Most memory foam mattresses should last six to eight years without sagging or developing bothersome body impressions. If you want your memory foam mattress to last upwards of a decade, look for higher density foams and use a sturdy, durable foundation.
Is High Density Memory Foam Better than Low Density?
High density in a memory foam mattress indicates good support and durability, so yes, high density is generally a good thing. That said, the increase in quality often comes with an increase in cost.
Recap of the Top Rated Memory Foam Mattresses
| Mattress | Award |
| Nectar | Nerd’s Pick |
| Helix Midnight | Best Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress |
| Saatva Modern Foam | Best Medium-Firm Memory Foam Mattress |
| WinkBeds GravityLux | Best Memory Foam for Heavyweight Sleepers |
| Nolah Original Mattress | Best Memory Foam Mattress for Side Sleepers |
| Leesa Original Mattress | Best Affordable Memory Foam Mattress |
| Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-breeze | Best Luxury Memory Foam Mattress |
| Bear Original Mattress | Best Memory Foam Mattress for Combination Sleepers |
| Casper Original Mattress | Best Memory Foam Mattress in a Box |
| Puffy | Best Memory Foam Mattress for Couples |
See All Foam Mattress Reviews
| Brand | Model | Type | Firmness | Trial | Warranty | Price | Coupons | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amerisleep | AS1 | Foam | 8.5 | 100 Nights | 20 Years | $$ | Check Price | AS1 Review |
| Amerisleep | AS2 | Foam | 7 | 100 Nights | 20 Years | $$ | Check Price | AS2 Review |
| Amerisleep | AS3 | Foam | 6.5 | 100 Nights | 20 Years | $$ | Check Price | AS3 Review |
| Amerisleep | AS4 | Foam | 6 | 100 Nights | 20 Years | $$ | Check Price | AS4 Review |
| Amerisleep | AS5 | Foam | 5.5 | 100 Nights | 20 Years | $$ | Check Price | AS5 Review |
| Bear | Original | Foam | 6 | 100 Nights | 20 Years | $$ | Check Price | Bear Mattress Review |
| Bear | Pro | Foam | 6 | 100 Nights | 20 Years | $$ | Check Price | Bear Pro Review |
| Casper | Original | Foam | 5 | 100 Nights | 10 Years | $$ | Check Price | Casper Review |
| Casper | Element | Foam | 7 | 100 Nights | 10 Years | $ | Check Price | Casper Element Review |
| Sealy | Cocoon Chill | Foam | 5 | 100 Nights | 10 Years | $$ | Check Price | Cocoon Chill Review |
| Dreamfoam | Chill | Foam | Varies | 120 Nights | 10 Years | $ | Check Price | Chill Review |
| Dreamfoam | Copper Dreams | Foam | Varies | 120 Nights | 10 Years | $ | Check Price | Copper Dreams Review |
| Ghostbed | Original | Foam | 6 | 101 Nights | 20 Years | $$ | Check Price | GhostBed Review |
| Ghostbed | Luxe | Foam | 5 | 101 Nights | 20 Years | $$ | Check Price | GhostBed Luxe Review |
| Keetsa | Cloud | Foam | 6 | 90 Nights | 12 Year | $$ | Check Price | Full Review |
| Keetsa | Tea Leaf Supreme | Foam | 5 | 90 Nights | 12 Year | $$$ | Check Price | Full Review |
| Layla | Memory Foam | Foam | 4 / 6 | 120 Nights | Lifetime | $$ | Check Price | Layla Review |
| Leesa | Original | Foam | 5 | 100 Nights | 10 Years | $$ | Check Price | Leesa Review |
| Leesa | Studio | Foam | 6.5 | 100 Nights | 10 Years | $$ | Check Price | Leesa Studio Review |
| Level Sleep | Level | Foam | 5 | 365 Nights | Lifetime | $$$ | Check Price | Level Sleep Review |
| Lull | Lull | Foam | 6 | 100 Nights | 10 Years | $ | Check Price | Lull Review |
| Marpac | Yogabed | Foam | 5 | 101 Nights | 10 Years | $$ | Check Price | Yogabed Review |
| Muse | The Muse | Foam | 7 | 120 Nights | 10 Years | $$ | Check Price | Muse Review |
| Nectar | The Nectar | Foam | 6 | 365 Nights | Lifetime | $$ | Check Price | Nectar Review |
| Nectar | Lush | Foam | 5.5 | 365 Nights | Lifetime | $$$ | Check Price | Nectar Lush Review |
| Nest | Alexander | Foam | 5 / 7 | 100 Nights | Lifetime | $$$ | Check Price | Nest Alexander Review |
| Nest | Love & Sleep | Foam | 5 / 7 | 100 Nights | Lifetime | $ | Check Price | Love & Sleep Review |
| Nolah | Original | Foam | 5 | 120 Nights | Lifetime | $$ | Check Price | Nolah Review |
| Nolah | Signature | Foam | 4 / 7 | 120 Nights | Lifetime | $$$ | Check Price | Nolah Signature Review |
| Novaform | Multiple | Foam | Varies | 30 Nights | 10 Years | $$ | Check Price | Novaform Review |
| Novosbed | The Novosbed | Foam | Varies | 120 Nights | 15 Years | $$ | Check Price | Novosbed Review |
| Puffy | Puffy | Foam | 5 | 101 Nights | Lifetime | $$ | Check Price | Puffy Review |
| Puffy | Puffy Lux | Foam | 6 | 101 Nights | Lifetime | $$$ | Check Price | Puffy Lux Review |
| Puffy | Royal | Foam | 5 | 101 Nights | Lifetime | $$$ | Check Price | Puffy Royal Review |
| Saatva | Loom & Leaf | Foam | 5 / 8 | 180 Nights | 15 Years | $$$ | Check Price | Loom & Leaf Review |
| Saatva | Soliare | Foam | Varies | 180 Nights | 15 Years | $$$$ | Check Price | Solaire Review |
| Tempurpedic | Tempur-Contour Supreme | Foam | 8 | 90 Days | 10 Years | $$$$ | Check Price | Full Review |
| Tempurpedic | TempurCloud | Foam | 3 | 90 Nights | 10 Years | $$$$ | Check Price | Full Review |
| Tuft & Needle | Original | Foam | 6 | 100 Nights | 10 Years | $$ | Check Price | T&N Review |
| Tuft & Needle | Mint | Foam | 5 | 100 Nights | 10 Years | $$ | Check Price | T&N Mint Review |
| Tuft & Needle | Nod | Foam | 5.5 | 100 Nights | 10 Years | $ | Check Price | T&N Nod Review |
| Wright | Wright | Foam | 6 | 120 Nights | 20 Years | $$$ | Check Price | Wright Review |
| Zinus | Green Tea | Foam | 6 | 100 Nights | 10 Years | $ | Check Price | Zinus Review |
| Zoma | Original | Foam | 5.5 | 100 Nights | 10 Years | $$ | Check Price | Zoma Review |
