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Memory foam is known for its ability to mold in response to heat and pressure. It then slowly regains its shape when the pressure lifts. Because of this, memory foam is ideally suited for use in mattresses, where it helps provide pressure relief and absorb motion transfer.
There are many memory foam mattresses on the market, and depending on your needs, one of them could be a good option for you. We’ll share our recommendations for the best memory foam models based on our extensive testing process. We’ll also examine the qualities of memory foam and discuss what types of sleepers may benefit from a memory foam mattress.
The Sleep Doctor's Picks
Best Overall
Nectar Mattress
Details
Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium Firm (6)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Price Range: $399 – $1,138
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Highlights
- Gel-infused memory foam designed for temperature regulation
- Little to no motion transfer
- 365-night sleep trial and limited lifetime warranty
Ideal For
- Individuals easily disturbed by their partner's movements
- Sleepers under 230 pounds
- Hot sleepers looking for a memory foam option
The Nectar Mattress has a 12-inch profile and a medium firm (6) feel. Our testers found that it provides a good balance of conforming, motion isolation, and temperature regulation despite its relatively low price-point. This makes it a good fit for sleepers who need an affordable, supportive mattress that sleeps cool.
A breathable cover uses a blend of polyester, nylon, and polyethylene designed to wick away heat. Our testers noted that the cover stayed cool to the touch.
The mattress’ comfort layer contains 2 inches of gel-infused memory foam engineered to redistribute your weight while pulling away warmth. We found that the mattress contoured closely to the body without causing our testers to overheat.
Below the memory foam, a 3-inch layer of transitional polyfoam limits sinkage, and a 7-inch high-density polyfoam support core helps stabilize the surface.
Thanks to its conforming memory foam layer and supportive polyfoam core, the Nectar provided notable support and pressure relief for our testers under 230 pounds, regardless of their sleep positions. Some of our side sleepers over 230 pounds also enjoyed a comfortable balance of cradling and support.
Our evaluations determined that the Nectar Mattress offers excellent motion isolation and exceptional pressure relief. In addition, our temperature readings showed only minimal heat retention, and most of our testers could lie comfortably near the edge without sinking.
Nectar offers free shipping in the contiguous U.S. The company also grants customers a 365-night sleep trial and a limited lifetime warranty.
The Nectar Mattress is an affordable model that stood out to our testers by providing the benefits of memory foam while minimizing common drawbacks.
“The Nectar Mattress has a medium firm (6) feel that appealed to many of our testers across sleeping positions. A lower price-point, generous year-long sleep trial, and lifetime warranty also make it a great option if you're on a budget.”
Best Value
Novilla Bliss – 12″
Details
Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium (5)
Price(Queen): $519
Highlights
- Thick, foam comfort system reduces pressure buildup
- Breathable bamboo-derived rayon cover
- Convoluted polyfoam offers targeted support
Ideal For
- Side and back sleepers
- Couples
- Value seekers
Memory foam mattresses tend to be lower in price than other mattress types, and the Novilla Bliss 12” is even more affordable than many of its competitors. Along with the lower sticker price, the Bliss’ mid-range feel appealed to many of our testers.
A layer of memory foam gives the surface a plush feel that relieves pressure points. This layer is also infused with cooling gel to combat heat buildup. Next is a layer of polyfoam that ensures your weight is evenly distributed across the mattress surface, promoting healthy spinal alignment.
A convoluted polyfoam transitional layer offers targeted support to wider areas of your body while preventing you from sinking too deeply into the mattress. High-density polyfoam in the support core reinforces the sleep surface. A breathable cover made from bamboo-derived rayon encases the mattress.
The Bliss has a medium (5) feel that our side- and back-sleeping testers enjoyed, especially those weighing up to 230 pounds. These testers appreciated the foam comfort system’s cushioning for sore spots. However, stomach sleepers and people weighing more than 230 pounds may need a firmer mattress. Thanks to the all-foam construction, we also recommend the mattress for couples who value motion isolation. We detected minimal motion transfer and noise when we moved across the bed, so you shouldn’t notice your partner’s nightly movement.
Novilla ships free to customers in the contiguous U.S. and offers a 30-night sleep trial to test the mattress. The Bliss 12” is backed by a 10-year warranty against structural defects.
“The Novilla Bliss 12” offers excellent performance at an affordable price. Our back and side sleepers appreciated the generous cushioning for the spine, shoulders, and hips.”
Most Comfortable
WinkBeds GravityLux
Details
Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium Soft (4), Medium (5), Firm (7)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Price Range: $1,199 – $1,999
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Highlights
- Tufted gel-infused polyfoam cover
- Enhanced lumbar support
- Available in three firmness options
Ideal For
- Most sleeping positions and body types
- People with lower back pain
- Sleepers who tend to overheat with memory foam mattresses
The all-foam GravityLux comes in medium soft (4), medium (5), and firm (7). With three distinct feels to choose from, our testers had no trouble finding an option that was comfortable for their body type and preferred sleep position. Our team also conducted extensive evaluations on all three firmness levels to determine how their performance varies.
Featuring a breathable Tencel cover quilted with gel polyfoam, the GravityLux is designed to limit heat retention. Our testers reported that this cover helped the surface stay cool and dry while cushioning their bodies. Beneath the cover, a layer of open-cell memory foam cradles the body, relieving pressure points.
The transition layer consists of zoned polyfoam with targeted lumbar support. Our team members noted that their midsections felt well supported by this design feature. The GravityLux also has a durable high-density polyfoam support core.
Most of our testers liked the medium (5) or firm (7) versions, so these may be good options for sleep partners with different body types or position preferences. Team members who weigh over 230 pounds and those who sleep on their backs or stomachs generally preferred the firm, while most under 130 pounds liked the medium. However, some side sleepers under 130 pounds favored the medium soft (4) version.
In our partner tests, we observed slightly less motion transfer on the medium soft and medium options. Their extra contouring also relieved our testers’ pressure points to a greater extent. However, we detected lower temperature readings on the surface of the firm option, which may make it better for hot sleepers. Our testers also felt more comfortable moving around on the firm surface and lying along its edge due to the more stable feel.
Shipping is free to the contiguous U.S. WinkBeds offers a limited lifetime warranty for the GravityLux, as well as a 120-night sleep trial with a 30-night required break-in period.
With multiple firmness options, targeted lumbar support, and patented memory foam, the GravityLux Mattress can offer balanced comfort and support for nearly any sleeper.
“The GravityLux's three firmness options ensured a comfortable model for most of our testers. Zoned support in the lumbar area prevented us from sinking too deeply, even those of us who carry extra weight in the midsection.”
Best for Couples
Emma Original Mattress
Details
Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium (5)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Price Range: $795 – $1,595
Warranty: 10 Year, Limited
Highlights
- Airgocell foam engineered for cooling
- Zoned polyfoam offers targeted cushioning and support
- All-foam construction enhances motion isolation
Ideal For
- Side sleepers
- Couples
- Hot sleepers who enjoy memory foam mattresses
Many memory foam mattresses excel at absorbing movement transfer, and the Emma Original Mattress is no exception. The bed’s foam layers isolated most motion and noise in our tests, making it great if you share the bed with a restless partner.
The comfort system begins with a layer of gel-infused memory foam that adapts to the body to relieve pressure. The gel in this layer is meant to absorb and dissipate excess body heat. Next is a layer of zoned polyfoam that provides extra support for wider areas of the body while cushioning sore spots.
High-density polyfoam makes up the support core, offering targeted pushback to prevent uncomfortable sagging. This layer also features cut-outs, which facilitate more airflow. A removable and machine-washable polyester cover encases the mattress.
A medium (5) feel and adaptive foam construction made the mattress great for almost all of our side sleepers. People who frequently use this position often experience pressure buildup in the hips or shoulders, and the mattress’ foam layers help combat this pressure. Some back and stomach sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds may find the mid-range feel adequately supportive, but people weighing more than 230 pounds may need a firmer mattress. Compared to many other foam mattresses, the Emma performed quite well in our temperature control tests. We attributed this to the extra airflow from the cut outs in the support core.
Emma ships free to customers in the contiguous U.S. A generous 365-night sleep trial allows you to test the mattress and return it for a full refund. If you decide to keep the Original Mattress, it is backed by a 10-year warranty.
“The Emma Original Hybrid’s all-foam construction earned high ratings in our motion isolation and noise absorption tests. Partners shouldn’t feel or hear any disturbances from the other person throughout the night.”
Best Luxury
Loom & Leaf
Details
Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King, Split California King
Price Range: $1,195 – $3,150
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Highlights
- Two firmness choices: medium firm (6) or firm (8)
- Extra gel layer under the lumbar area for enhanced spinal support
- Complimentary White Glove delivery in the contiguous U.S.
Ideal For
- Most sleep positions and body types
- Individuals over 230 pounds who have trouble finding a supportive foam mattress
- Shoppers who need extra help setting up the bed
Made by Saatva, the Loom & Leaf is an all-foam mattress featuring multiple layers of pressure-relieving memory foam.
A quilted cotton cover allows air to circulate into and out of the mattress so that heat can dissipate. Foam quilted into the cover adds support to the center third of the mattress, which is further enhanced by an extra gel layer in this area. Our testers felt that this combination provided good spinal support across sleep positions.
Next is a 2-inch comfort layer of gel-infused memory foam with small perforations, which is designed to mold to your body without trapping heat. An additional layer of memory foam deepens the contouring. Our testers reported significant pressure relief from both layers, and our temperature readings showed that the surface retained less body warmth than many other memory foam models.
A transition layer of polyfoam helps determine the overall firmness level of the mattress, and a polyfoam core supports the surface. The mattress measures 12 inches thick, a common mattress size that should make it easy to find sheets and other bedding.
You can choose between a medium firm (6) or firm (8) version of the Loom & Leaf. Compared to other foam mattresses, the firm (8) option provided above-average support for our testers over 230 pounds and our stomach sleepers over 130 pounds.
Across the board, testers under 130 pounds preferred the cradling of the medium firm version. The testing team also determined that the medium firm option has a slight edge in preventing vibrations from traveling across the surface, so it may help prevent sleep disruptions for couples sharing a mattress.
In addition to the six standard mattress sizes (twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king), the Loom & Leaf is also available in split king and split California king sizes. Saatva offers complimentary White Glove delivery for customers in the contiguous U.S. The Loom & Leaf comes with a 365-night sleep trial, subject to a nominal return fee, as well as a limited lifetime warranty.
We found the Loom & Leaf to be a good fit for those who sleep hot but prefer a memory foam mattress. Its comfortable, supportive design and reinforced center limit midsection sinkage and help you maintain good spinal alignment throughout the night.
“The Loom & Leaf by Saatva is a high-end foam model designed for enhanced spinal support. Memory foam layers added cushioning along my spine, while an extra gel layer in the lumbar area prevented sinkage.”
Best Cooling
Cocoon Chill
Details
Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium Firm (6)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Price Range: $769 – $1,539
Warranty: 10 Year, Limited
Highlights
- Cover infused with phase change material designed to dissipate body heat
- Medium firm construction cushions the body without sacrificing support
- Exceptional motion isolation for couples
Ideal For
- Couples with different body types or position preferences
- People who tend to wake up when their sleep partner moves
- Those who normally find all-foam mattresses too hot
Memory foam gets a bad rap for trapping body heat and making a mattress uncomfortably warm. The Cocoon Chill does have a memory foam comfort layer, but our temperature readings showed that its heat retention is below average, thanks to its cooling design.
The cover is infused with phase change material engineered to capture and release heat. We found that this helped the surface of the mattress stay cool to the touch. At the same time, our testers reported that the memory foam comfort layer hugged their bodies enough to redistribute their weight and relieve pressure. A polyfoam transition layer prevented them from sinking in excessively, while the polyfoam core gave the surface a supportive feel.
The Chill is a medium firm (6) model. Our testers noted moderate contouring and sturdy overall support no matter what sleep position they preferred. The all-foam design also provided excellent motion isolation, with our testers barely noticing when we dropped a kettlebell on the other side of the bed or had another tester move around.
Our evaluations showed that the Chill is best suited to back and stomach sleepers of all weights, as well as side sleepers who weigh 130 pounds or more. The foam provided adequate cushioning to alleviate pressure in the shoulders and hips for our side sleepers over 130 pounds, while the relatively firm feel ensured a flat surface for those who favor the back and stomach positions.
The Chill is competitively priced, and Cocoon ships the mattress for free anywhere in the contiguous U.S. Each order comes with a 100-night sleep trial that includes free returns after 30 nights. The Cocoon Chill is also backed by a 10-year limited warranty.
Our testers were impressed by the Cocoon Chill’s ability to regulate temperature despite the pressure-relieving hug of its memory foam comfort layer. This makes the mattress a good fit for hot sleepers with sharp pressure points.
“Hot sleepers on our team found the Cocoon Chill exceptionally cool compared to other all-foam models. The mattress' cover features phase change material meant to regulate temperature, and our tests proved it quite effective at reducing heat on the surface.”
Best for Pressure Relief
PlushBeds Cool Bliss
Details
Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium Firm (6)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Price Range: $1540 – $2931
Warranty: 25 Year, Limited
Highlights
- Unique combination of memory foam and organic latex
- Durable construction
- More responsive than many foam beds
Ideal For
- Combination sleepers
- Those who sleep with a partner
- Individuals who tend to sleep hot on all-foam beds
When you lie down to sleep, your body naturally creates pressure points depending on how your weight is distributed. These areas, such as your hips and shoulders, may need more targeted support. The PlushBeds Cool Bliss Mattress addresses those needs with a unique design that combines memory foam and latex for a medium firm (6) feel.
The Cool Bliss has a breathable cover made with organic cotton certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). The top layer consists of 3 inches of gel-infused memory foam designed to sleep cooler than traditional memory foam. This layer provided our testers with conforming pressure relief. We also found that it helped absorb vibrations, so our team didn’t notice when their partners changed positions.
A 2-inch layer of Dunlop latex, certified organic by the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) and aerated for better breathability, enhanced responsiveness and made it easy for our combination sleepers to switch positions.
The bottom layer in the mattress’ comfort system consists of a 2-inch layer of convoluted polyfoam. This helped prevent our testers from sinking in too deeply while also providing channels for heat to escape. A 5-inch polyfoam base serves as the support core.
Our side sleepers, back sleepers under 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds reported that they received balanced support and pressure relief from this mattress. It’s available in all of the six standard mattress sizes, as well as split king.
PlushBeds provides a 100-night sleep trial and free shipping to the contiguous U.S. Shoppers must sleep on the mattress for 30 nights before requesting a return, which may be subject to a transportation fee. The mattress is backed by a 25-year limited warranty.
Our testers found that the PlushBeds Cool Bliss Mattress provides a good pressure relief while managing to avoid the uncomfortable heat buildup common with foam mattresses. Couples and those looking for a balance of contouring and support are likely to enjoy the Cool Bliss.
“Memory foam is known for having an adaptive feel that's excellent at relieving pressure. The PlushBeds Cool Bliss uses gel-infused memory foam comfort layers, which appealed to our tester with sharp pressure points.”
Why You Should Trust Us
Our team is committed to helping you find the best sleep products for your needs. Armed with years of experience in the sleep product industry, we provide the information you need to find a new mattress.
We put each mattress through multiple tests to analyze motion isolation, pressure relief, and other performance metrics. Our experienced testers also personally try each mattress to see how it stacks up compared to similar models. The testing team includes individuals of varying body types and preferred sleep positions, giving us a more comprehensive idea of how each mattress works for a wide range of sleepers.
What Is a Memory Foam Mattress?
Memory foam is a type of polyfoam that changes shape in response to pressure and heat. Also known as viscoelastic foam, memory foam was first used in the mattress industry in the 1990s. Among the many materials used in the top layers of a mattress, memory foam is considered one of the best options for relieving pressure due to its ability to conform closely to the body and limit pressure buildup.
How They’re Constructed
A memory foam mattress includes at least one layer of memory foam, usually found in the comfort system near the top of the mattress. This position allows the memory foam to relieve pressure by conforming to your body. Memory foam mattresses may also contain additional layers made of latex, polyfoam, or other materials.
When people talk about memory foam mattresses, they are generally referring to an all-foam model with a high-density polyfoam support core. However, the term may also apply to a hybrid mattress with a memory foam comfort layer and a coil base. In our tests, we’ve found that all-foam memory foam models tend to excel at isolating motion because memory foam absorbs vibrations. However, that also means that all-foam designs often lack the responsiveness common in hybrid and innerspring models.
Our temperature control evaluations often find greater heat retention and sinkage in memory foam mattresses. Because the material hugs the sleeper closely, memory foam can restrict airflow around the body, leading to more heat buildup. Newer kinds of memory foam often use open-cell designs, lower-density foams, or technology such as gel infusions to combat heat retention and give the foam a quicker response to changes in pressure.
Why Should You Sleep on a Memory Foam Mattress?
We generally recommend memory foam models for sleepers with sharp pressure points. Memory foam typically allows sleepers to sink into the bed’s surface, taking pressure off of areas prone to aches and pains.
For side sleepers, memory foam cradles the hips and shoulders to reduce pressure buildup and promote healthy spinal alignment. Back sleepers may benefit from a slightly firmer memory foam mattress that supports the lumbar region to ease pressure in the lower back.
In our tests, memory foam mattresses also tend to perform well with sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds. These individuals don’t exert as much force on the mattress, so they often prefer a mattress that offers more contouring.
Due to its close conforming and slow response to changes in pressure, memory foam effectively absorbs motion. Therefore, memory foam mattresses may also be a good option for couples easily disturbed by their partners’ movements.
Memory Foam Mattresses vs. Hybrid Mattresses vs. Innerspring Mattresses
Whereas memory foam mattresses generally have an all-foam construction, hybrid mattresses combine a substantial comfort system with an innerspring core usually made of pocketed coils. In contrast, innerspring mattresses feature a simple design consisting of steel coils and a thin comfort layer.
While individual models may vary slightly, these mattress types also have some common attributes.
Memory Foam Mattresses | Hybrid Mattresses | Innerspring Mattresses | |
|---|---|---|---|
Support Core | Polyfoam | Pocketed Coils | Innerspring Coils |
Comfort Layers | Memory foam, polyfoam, or latex | Memory foam, polyfoam, latex, cotton, wool, or other materials | None or a thin layer of polyfoam |
Pressure Point Relief | Excellent | Good to Very Good | Poor |
Ease of Movement | Fair to Good | Good to Very Good | Excellent |
Temperature Neutrality | Fair to Good | Good to Excellent | Excellent |
Average Lifespan | 6-7 years | 6.5-7.5 years | 5.5-6.5 years |
Average Price Range | $1,000-$1,500 | $1,500-$2,500 | Less than $1,000 |
Last Facts About Memory Foam Mattresses
The makeup, construction, and materials of memory foam models can vary widely. Because of this, there are some additional considerations to keep in mind when searching for a new mattress.
How Does It Feel to Sleep on a Memory Foam Mattress?
Our testers often describe sleeping on memory foam as sleeping “in” rather than “on” the mattress. Although it depends on the specific mattress and firmness level, memory foam is usually more suitable for people who like the feeling of sinking into their bed. The close contouring can help relieve pressure, especially for side sleepers.
In our evaluations, memory foam mattresses also typically isolate a significant amount of motion, which can be convenient when sharing a bed.
However, our stomach sleepers and testers who weigh more than 230 pounds often find that memory foam mattresses are too soft to provide adequate support. These sleepers are generally more comfortable on firmer mattresses, which are relatively uncommon with memory foam models. Our hot sleepers and those who value ease of movement also frequently prefer hybrid or latex models.
How Much Does a Memory Foam Mattress Cost?
Depending on the quality and construction, memory foam mattresses can range from less than $1,000 to over $2,000.
Because traditional memory foam has a reputation for trapping heat and restricting movement, mattress manufacturers often add features that aim to improve performance in these areas. This can include technologies designed to fight heat retention, such as gel infusions or phase change material. Other conductive materials, such as copper and graphite, can also help prevent heat buildup.
Additionally, manufacturers may incorporate open-cell designs intended to improve breathability and provide a quicker response to pressure. Proprietary or complex designs usually come at higher price-points.
Mattresses made with denser foams tend to be more durable – and more expensive. Similarly, thicker models are usually higher in price because they require more materials. The price of a memory foam mattress can also vary depending on the construction of the other layers.
How Long Does a Memory Foam Mattress Last?
On average, buyers can expect their memory foam mattress to last approximately 6 to 7 years, which is slightly shorter than we’d anticipate for a hybrid or latex model.
Although memory foam is designed to regain its original shape when pressure lifts, it eventually starts to lose this capacity and may develop permanent impressions where you usually lie. This affects the mattress’ pressure-relieving abilities and may cause tension if you sink in excessively.
Higher-density foams generally outlast lower-density foams. Additionally, you may find your mattress feels softer if you sleep in a warm environment because memory foam reacts to heat.
We suggest regularly rotating your mattress from head to foot to extend its lifespan. This promotes even wear and can help delay the formation of permanent body impressions. It’s also a good idea to use a mattress protector to prevent damage from accidental tears, spills, or stains.
About The Author
Certified Sleep Science Coach, Lead Product Tester
David is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a lifelong passion for well-being and health optimization. His interest in sleep developed with the arrival of his son, when sleep suddenly became a precious commodity.
- Position: Side Sleeper
- Temperature: Hot Sleeper
- Chronotype: Lion
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