Memory foam is one of the most popular mattress materials right now, and it’s easy to understand why. The best memory foam mattresses contour to your body, yet still provide ample support for your spine, helping to reduce morning aches and pains. Memory foam is also quite affordable, so gone are the days when you’d have to spend several thousand dollars on a new mattress.
When shopping for a memory foam mattress, you’ll want to consider things like your go-to sleep position and firmness preferences as you shop—stomach sleepers typically need a firm mattress, while side sleepers may prefer something more plush. Other factors to take into account include whether you want a cooling mattress (essential for anyone who wakes up too hot regularly) or if you need a mattress that can support heavier individuals.
If you’re hesitant to buy a mattress without trying it, good news: Most brands offer a sleep trial, so you won’t be stuck with something you don’t like. No matter your sleep preferences, the best memory foam mattresses are sure to deliver a more comfortable and restful night’s sleep.
- Best Memory Foam Mattress Overall: Tempur-Adapt Memory Foam Mattress
- Best Memory Foam Mattress For Active Lifestyles: Zoma Mattress
- Best Memory Foam Mattress For Side Sleepers: Helix Midnight
- Best Memory Foam Mattress For Pressure Relief: Nectar Premier Memory Foam Mattress
- Best Memory Foam Mattress For Hot Sleepers: Cocoon by Sealy Chill Memory Foam Mattress
- Best Memory Foam Mattress For Back Pain: Casper Original Memory Foam Mattress
- Best Memory Foam Mattress For Couples: Tuft & Needle Original Mattress
- Best Memory Foam Mattress On Amazon: Classic Brands Cool Gel Memory Foam Mattress
- Best Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress: Leesa Hybrid
- Best Budget Memory Foam Mattress: Dreamfoam by Brooklyn Bedding Chill Memory Foam Mattress
- Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress: WinkBeds The GravityLux
Best Memory Foam Mattress Overall
A Comfortable, Supportive Bed From One Of The Top Names In Memory Foam
- Thickness: 11 inches
- Firmness: Medium
- Trial Period: 90 nights
- Warranty: 10 years
Tempur-Pedic has been in the memory foam business for a long time, far longer than today’s bed-in-a-box companies. As such, it’s had years to perfect its comfort layer technology, and this expertise is reflected in both its mattress construction, reviews and pricing. The Tempur-Adapt is built with a premium knit, cool-to-the-touch cover and two advanced memory foam layers. The first comfort layer works with the other materials to relax and support sleepers, while the second adapts to your pressure points for personalized comfort.
What the Reviews Say: With a 4.5-star rating, reviewers agree that the Temper-Adapt was a purchase worth making. “Absolutely love this mattress. I would highly recommend,” writes one five-star reviewer. “If there are any drawbacks it’s the mattress is so comfortable that it is hard to get up in the morning.” Others call it the “best mattress” and say they’re getting their best sleep ever.
Pros:
- Multiple firmness options
- Balances comfort and support
- No motion transfer
- White glove delivery
- CertiPUR-US certified
Cons:
- Not compatible with box springs
- Shorter-than-average sleep trial
Best Memory Foam Mattress For Side Sleepers
A Medium Density Mattress That Lets Your Shoulders Sink In
- Thickness: 12 inches
- Firmness: Medium
- Trial Period: 100 nights
- Warranty: 10 years
Helix makes some of the best mattresses on the market, and the sleep retailer has plenty of options to choose from. The Helix Midnight hybrid memory foam mattress is designed with side sleepers in mind. Those who sleep on their sides at night often benefit from a medium density mattress that will support pressure points while cradling their hips and shoulders—and that’s exactly what this mattress does. It’s made of wrapped coils topped with two layers of memory foam, and it contours to your body while providing pressure relief and minimizing motion transfer. It also has a reinforced perimeter that offers edge support on the outside of the mattress.
If you need additional lumbar support, you can opt for the Helix Midnight LUXE—an upgraded version of the original Midnight—instead. It has an added layer of gel visco, a gel-infused memory foam that’s designed to increase response time and add extra cushion and support for your body. It’s also two inches taller than the original and comes with a quilted pillow top cover for added plushness and breathability.
What the Reviews Say: The Helix Midnight is a hit among reviewers, many of whom say it helps to minimize joint and back pain: “I love this mattress!! [It’s] soft and perfectly balanced,” writes one five-star reviewer. “It doesn’t matter which way I lay in bed; I feel the bed is very comforting. My back doesn’t hurt as much as it did. My husband used to toss and turn every night and had problems sleeping comfortable but with the Helix Midnight he hardly moves in bed and said he is sleeping much better.”
Pros:
- Hybrid design
- Reinforced edges
- Cushions pressure points
- CertiPUR-US certified
Cons:
- Some reviewers note it sleeps warm
Best Memory Foam Mattress For Active Lifestyles
- Thickness: 12 inches
- Firmness: Medium
- Trial period: 100 nights
- Warranty: 10 years
The Zoma mattress was created for people with active lifestyles. The all-foam mattress combines cooling layers that wick away heat—perfect for warm sleepers—and highly responsive foam that quickly reacts to your movements so you won’t feel stuck when you change sleeping positions or try to get out of bed. The mattress comes recommended by athletes and also has a 10-year warranty.
What the Reviews Say: Many reviewers have said goodbye to chronic aches and pains since switching out their mattress. “Since buying Zoma, my sleep has been much better. I was waking up in the night with hip and leg pain, but not anymore. The support is great and the mattress is holding up great. Recently purchased the pillows and found them to be a great product as well,” writes one five-star reviewer.
Pros:
- Ultra responsive
- Ventilated and cooling materials
- Made in the USA
- CertiPUR-US certified
Cons:
- Not as thick as some competitors
Best Memory Foam Mattress For Pressure Relief
A Five-Layer Mattress With An Extra-Long Trial Period
- Thickness: 13 inches
- Firmness: Medium
- Trial Period: 365 nights (one year)
- Warranty: Lifetime
With a quilted cooling cover, a smart layer, a dynamic layer, a stable-base layer and a shift-resistant cover, this five-layer mattress keeps sleepers cool and comfortable during the night. The quilted cover and smart layer wick moisture and regulate temperature, while the lower levels provide 3 inches of foam that contours lightly to the body to gently support pressure points and joints.
What the Reviews Say: There’s a reason the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress has a 4.8-star rating from almost 36,000 reviewers. It earns high marks for just the right amount of softness and contouring for supportive sleep. “It’s not so soft that my back has no support, but also not too hard that I’m essentially sleeping on the floor. The quality is incredible and it’s money well spent,” one five-star reviewer shares.
Pros:
- Gel-infused foam regulates temperature
- Minimal motion transfer
- Carbon neutral product
- One-year trial period
- CertiPUR-US certified
Cons:
- Some note it is firmer than expected
Best Memory Foam Mattress For Hot Sleepers
A Cooling Mattress That Comes With Free Accessories
- Thickness: 10 inches
- Firmness: Medium-firm
- Trial Period: 100 nights
- Warranty: 10 years
Tired of waking up each morning drenched in sweat? Say goodbye to damp pajamas and linens with the Cocoon Chill Memory Foam Mattress. This premium memory foam mattress consists of four layers that work together to help you get the sleep of your dreams: cooling cover, perfect fit memory foam, responsive comfort foam and an the essential support layer. The first layer of this memory foam consists of a cooling cover infused with the brand’s Phase Change Material that’s designed to absorb heat and wick moisture for a dry, cool sleeping surface. Not only is this mattress ideal for hot sleepers, but it also provides support throughout the night by catering to your individual body shape and position.
What the Reviews Say: A satisfied sleeper praises this mattress’ cooling abilities, ideal for a quality night’s sleep: “This mattress is so comfortable and works wonders with keeping me cooler while I sleep.”
Pros:
- Good value
- Cooling features for temperature regulation
- Free pillow/sheet bundle included
- CertiPUR-US certified
Cons:
- Not ideal for heavy individuals
Best Memory Foam Mattress For Back Pain
An Extremely Popular Mattress With Zoned Ergonomic Support
- Thickness: 11 inches
- Firmness: Medium
- Trial Period: 100 nights
- Warranty: 10 years
Casper was one of the first companies to offer a bed-in-a-box, and today, its Original Memory Foam Mattress is still a popular choice among those with back or joint pain. What’s unique about this mattress is its “Zoned Support,” which has three ergonomic zones to keep your spine in proper alignment—the mattress is softer under your shoulder, but firmer around the hips, waist and lower back. Don’t believe it will make a difference? Just read some of the 20,000+ reviews from users, many of whom have experienced a notable reduction in back pain.
What the Reviews Say: Many who switched to Casper can’t believe how much better they feel. “Honestly get this if you want the best sleep of your life. I have so many back problems and this really helped me get a better quality sleep and reduce my back pain at night! A game changer, I just want to lay in it all day,” gushes one happy sleeper.
Pros:
- Zoned support for better ergonomic alignment
- Perforated foam improves breathability
- Hybrid option available
- CertiPUR-US certified
Cons:
- Long off-gassing period
Best Memory Foam Mattress For Couples
A Budget-Friendly Option That Accommodates All Sleep Positions
- Thickness: 10 inches
- Firmness: Medium-firm
- Trial Period: 100 nights
- Warranty: 10 years
The Tuft & Needle Original Mattress is a standout with almost 24,000 5-star reviews—and its affordable price is the icing on the cake. This memory foam mattress is crafted from two layers of open-cell foam with cooling gel for temperature regulation, and the company’s proprietary T&N Adaptive Foam is designed to provide the perfect balance of support and flexibility. For this reason, reviewers say the Tuft & Needle Mattress is a good compromise for couples that have different sleep styles, as its flexibility is comfortable in any position.
What the Reviews Say: “The bed is supportive and perfectly squishy,” writes one reviewer. “My husband prefers a stiffer bed while I wish I could sleep in the clouds, and it’s a beautiful compromise that allows us both to relax and sleep without any discomfort.”
Pros:
- Affordable
- Comfortable for multiple sleep positions
- Infused with gel and graphite for temperature regulation
- Antimicrobial treatment available
- GREENGUARD Gold and CertiPUR-US certified
Cons:
- Lacks edge support
Best Memory Foam Mattress On Amazon
An Inexpensive Mattress Made With Cooling Gel Foam
- Thickness: 14 inches
- Firmness: Medium
- Trial Period: 30 days
- Warranty: 10 years
The Classic Brands Cool Gel Memory Foam Mattress combines premium pressure-relieving memory foam with a high-density cool gel memory foam for the perfect balance of softness and support. This mattress is supportive, but has enough give to fully conform to your shape. This combination alleviates pressure where you need it most, so you get a good night’s sleep and wake up pain-free. The gel layer also helps regulate body temperature so, true to its name, you sleep cooler and don’t wake up sweaty. Head’s up: Unlike other mattresses on this list that come with an extended trial period, this mattress is covered only by Amazon’s 30-day return policy.
What the Reviews Say: Buying a mattress on Amazon may be different than what you’re used to, but the vast majority of reviewers are happy they rolled the dice. “I was very nervous and skeptical about buying a mattress online. My husband and I spent so many hours looking and testing different mattresses,” writes one five-star reviewer. “After a week of having the bed I can now say that I am 110% satisfied with the mattress. I haven’t slept this good in a long time. This mattress changed my views on memory foam...This one is so worth it!”
Pros:
- Affordable
- Gel-infused foam regulates temperature
- CertiPUR-US certified
Cons:
- No sleep trial
- Not the most supportive
Best Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress
A Mattress Made With Springs For Superior Support
- Thickness: 11 inches
- Firmness: Medium-firm
- Trial Period: 100 nights
- Warranty: 10 years
Like all hybrid mattresses, this Leesa model offers the benefits of memory foam, paired with the increased support of springs. The base of the mattress is made from over 1,000 active-response pocket springs that provide durability and stability all the way to the edges of the bed, and it’s topped with two layers of memory foam for pressure relief and cushioning. The mattress is described as “medium-firm” in terms of plushness, and its top “comfort layer” is hole-punched for increased breathability and temperature regulation throughout the night.
What the Reviews Say: The Leesa Hybrid Mattress gets the seal of approval from buyers, as well, sporting a 4.4-star rating from more than 2,000 reviews, many of which tout its hybrid construction: “I can’t say enough good things about this mattress,” writes one reviewer who says it’s worth every penny. “After sleeping on it for about a month, both my husband and I are in love—cool, comfortable, supportive without creating pressure points, truly the perfect mattress.”
Pros:
- Hybrid construction
- Innersprings increase durability
- Perforated foam increases breathability
- Better edge support
- CertiPUR-US certified
Cons:
- Long off-gassing period
Best Budget Memory Foam Mattress
An Inexpensive Pick That Comes In Many Sizes
- Thickness: Available in 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 inches
- Firmness: Depends on mattress height (all firmness options available)
- Trial Period: 120 nights
- Warranty: 10 years
The Chill Memory Foam Mattress from Dreamfoam is a budget option that doesn’t feel like one. Its constructed of multiple layers of foam—including a gel memory foam that provides a more responsive sleep experience—that offer enhanced contouring and pressure relief. The gel layer also adds advanced cooling technology, while the open cell technology in each layer allows for increased airflow and breathability, so this mattress doesn’t retain heat like some other memory foam options.
Everything is built on a high-density base foam that increases stability and support, so you don’t feel like you’re sinking into the mattress. And you can choose from different mattress depths, from six to 14 inches, so you can find the one that works best for you. Keep in mind that the prices vary slightly depending on which one you choose.
What the Reviews Say: Reviewers say this mattress provides some serious comfort on a budget, and they appreciate the additional sizing options: “As someone who is 6’3” and was needing a full XL mattress instead of a standard full, this was the first website I found that sold full XL mattresses and that had great reviews...I decided to buy a medium-soft mattress and I’m so happy I did! This mattress is amazing and the quality is amazing as well! Would definitely buy again in the future!”
Pros:
- Unconventional sizes available
- Several mattress thicknesses
- Stain-resistant finish
Cons:
- Firmer than expected
Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress
A Gel-Infused Mattress With Multiple Firmness Options
- Thickness: 11 inches
- Firmness: Choose from soft, medium or firm
- Trial Period: 120 nights
- Warranty: Lifetime
Memory foam works wonders for those who love the feeling of sinking into a bed after a long day. If that sounds like you, then getting your hands on a handmade-to-order soft memory foam mattress like The GravityLux might be the next right move. For those hot sleepers, this mattress stays cool with its AirCell Memory Foam and unique temperature management unique to each individual sleeper.
And yes, you can still enjoy the soft feeling of memory foam while receiving support; this 7-layer model is designed to contour shoulders, legs and the midsection for optimal comfort. Plus, you don’t need to worry about disturbing your partner during the night with its unique construction that allows for movement without transfer to other parts of the bed.
What the Reviews Say: Reviewers can’t stop raving about the unmatched support this memory foam mattress provides for alleviating aches and pains. “This mattress feels perfect in all positions, doesn’t result in any numbness, and gives me no sore spots in the morning even when I don’t move all night,” one five-star shopper said.
Pros:
- Multiple firmness options
- Cooling gel-infused foam
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Requires regular rotating
What To Look For In A Memory Foam Mattress
As you shop for a memory foam mattress, there are several factors you’ll want to consider to ensure you find the best option for your sleep preferences and needs.
Firmness
Do you like a soft, squishy bed that you can sink into? Or something that’s firmer and more supportive? The firmness of your mattress will play a big role in its overall comfort, so it’s important to select an option that caters to both your preferences and sleep position. Those who sleep on their backs often prefer a softer mattress, while stomach sleepers need something firm to keep their spines in proper alignment. Side sleepers typically need something in the middle that will cradle pressure points while supporting their back—and memory foam is an ideal choice for that.
Foam Type
Most memory foam mattresses are made up of several layers of foam, including a supportive base layer and more cushy “comfort” layers. As you shop, look at the various types of foam in each mattress—some might include gel-infused foam with cooling properties or perforated foam for better breathability.
Certifications
Certain memory foams can give off unhealthy gases when first opened, so you may want to look for a product that has safety certifications. The CertiPUR-US certification program ensures that foams are made without mercury, lead, heavy metals or formaldehyde, and that they have low emissions. Another common certification is UL GREENGUARD, which specifically evaluates chemical emissions.
Delivery Method
There are multiple ways that your memory foam mattress can be delivered. Traditional in-home delivery is still available through many retailers, and this is a good option if you’re unable to carry a mattress into the bedroom by yourself or want to have your old mattress hauled away. However, many online brands now offer mattresses in a box, which are compressed and shipped in a surprisingly small package. This option is ideal for anyone who doesn’t mind setting up the mattress themselves, but keep in mind that most compressed mattresses need several hours to reinflate.
Trial Period
Most mattress brands offer some type of sleep trial, which allows you to test out the mattress in your home. If you don’t like the mattress, the brand will allow you to return or exchange it, generally for no cost. Most sleep trials are around 100 nights, but some brands allow you to test out their mattresses for up to one year.
Other Features
There are additional features that you might want to look for in a memory foam mattress. For instance, those who sleep hot might want a mattress with cooling features. Other features you may encounter include special antimicrobial treatments, zoned support or reinforced edges.
Frequently Asked Questions About Memory Foam Mattresses
Are Spring Or Memory Foam Mattresses Better?
There are three major types of mattresses and each one has its own set of pros and cons. Deciding whether one style is “better” than another is really a matter of preference, so here is a brief breakdown of each:
- Memory foam: This material is unique because it contours to your body, offering a customized level of comfort and support. It’s also excellent for alleviating pressure points, particularly around your hips and shoulders, while also providing support for your spine. Couples appreciate how well memory foam eliminates motion transfer; this means you won’t feel your partner moving on their side of the bed. And if you have an adjustable bed frame, a flexible memory foam mattress will probably be your best bet. All that said, memory foam has a tendency to trap heat, although many top brands have developed new technology to keep their mattresses cool. Finally, while some people love sinking into their memory foam bed at the end of a long day, others don’t like the feeling of being “swallowed” by their mattress.
- Innerspring: These are the traditional types of mattresses with springs as the main support system. While some people prefer the firmer feel of these mattresses, many find that they create uncomfortable pressure points. They also have a tendency to sag in the middle over time, so if you decide to get an innerspring mattress, be sure it’s a quality one.
- Hybrid: Hybrid mattresses are really popular since they combine the best attributes of memory foam and innerspring mattresses. Usually, they’re constructed with coils for support (often they’re wrapped to reduce excess springiness) and are topped with plush foam layers for contouring comfort. Hybrids tend to sleep cooler because the coils allow for airflow, not to mention, they’re often made with other materials that help regulate temperature. While they may be slightly bouncier than memory foam mattresses, the best hybrids are constructed to reduce motion transfer, a big plus for couples. You probably won’t sink into a hybrid as much as you would a memory foam mattress, which may or may not be a good thing, depending on your preference.
How Thick Should A Memory Foam Mattress Be?
Memory foam mattresses are available in a wide range of thicknesses, from as little as 4 inches all the way up to 18 inches. However, the sweet spot for most people is around 10 to 14 inches thick. This size ensures the mattress has a suitable base layer for support, as well as softer comfort layers on top.
How Long Will A Memory Foam Mattress Last?
The lifespan of your memory foam mattress will depend on several factors, but in general, these beds typically last from eight to 10 years. Mattresses that are made from high-quality foam can easily last 10 years or longer, but there are some cheaper foam options available that may begin to sag or get lumpy after just a few years of use.
When purchasing a mattress, check out the warranty and make sure you’re adequately covered if the mattress starts to break down prematurely. Many retailers offer 10 to 15 year warranties—if your mattress starts to sag before that time, they’ll replace it for you.
