Memory foam mattresses are made of multiple foam layers, like a cake; each layer a different foam material designed for various support and cooling functions.
For some, the phrase “memory foam” can evoke feelings of a soft, cozy mattress that hugs your body. Memory foam mattresses are designed to help relieve pressure and pain by using body heat to mold the mattress to your body’s shape. Pain and discomfort can lead to sleep disruption, which can exacerbate pain and negatively affect your physical and mental health. The right memory foam mattress can support your body to help relieve pain and encourage more restorative sleep.
In this review, our Handbook Team recommends memory foam mattresses that may help relieve pressure and pain. However, always consult your health care provider if you’re purchasing a new mattress to help address specific medical conditions.
Shopping for mattresses is personal—what feels best for our testers may not be best for you. We encourage you to use a mattress’s full trial period before committing to it—most brands offer a trial period of 100 or more nights.
“Although it can take some time to fully adjust to your new mattress, if you notice you’re still waking up with increased pain in the body and are tossing and turning throughout the night, those are some red flags that a new memory foam mattress may not be supportive enough,” says Jimmy Pajuheshfar, a doctor of physical therapy and clinical director at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers.
Whether you’re looking for a memory foam mattress to try something new, replace your old mattress, or help relieve pain during the night, each mattress is unique—from the foam quality to the firmness and construction. That’s why we researched and evaluated more than 100 mattresses to help you find the best memory foam mattresses available today.
Best memory foam mattress overall
We chose the Saatva Loom & Leaf mattress as the best memory foam mattress due to its high-quality, cushioning foam, which we found offers excellent pressure relief for all sleeping positions. We also love Saatva’s white glove delivery service. The company delivers your new mattress to your bedroom and removes your old mattress for free.
Our pick of the best memory foam mattresses
- Saatva Loom & Leaf: Best overall
- Nectar Original Foam: Most affordable memory foam mattress
- DreamCloud Original Foam: Best cooling and gel memory foam mattress
- Bear Original: Best firm memory foam mattress
- Helix Midnight: Best hybrid memory foam mattress
Our testing experience
Purchase mattress as mystery shoppers.
Set up mattress in testing lab.
Lie on mattress and rank firmness.
Lie on back, side, and stomach to find the best sleeping position.
Place 10-pound ball in mattress center and measure sinkage.
Find biggest pressure points using pressure map reading.
Evaluate cooling capabilities by recording temperature differences.
Drop 10-pound ball onto mattress to measure bounce score.
Test motion isolation.
Test edge support.
Calculate composite “sex” and “family” scores.
The Handbook Team hand-tests every mattress we review. We evaluate brands and models by recording our findings on a 42-question standardized testing form to identify standout features and services, document issues with each product, and describe our personal experience lying on each mattress. For example, we record:
- Firmness score and whether the mattress is best for back, side, or stomach sleepers.
- Starting temperature of the mattress and how much it heats up after two testers lie on the mattress for five minutes.
- How many times a 10-pound ball bounces on the mattress after dropping from a height of two feet in order to arrive at a mattress bounce score.
We paid close attention to specific considerations that sleepers of all ages seek, as identified by respondents in our survey of 600 mattress owners. This included price, features, and the set-up process. We also interviewed real people to better understand the motivations behind shopping for a new mattress as well as the benefits of purchasing one.
According to our survey
According to our survey, about 80 percent of all respondents said their new mattress helps them sleep better, and 65 percent reported improved mental health.
As our testers evaluated each brand and its features, we considered why many people choose a new mattress in the first place. Of our respondents, 42 percent decided to purchase a new mattress for “improved comfort and support for better sleep,” while only seven percent did so for “pain relief and targeted support.” The most common pain respondents wanted relieved was lower back pain.
Despite only 42 percent of respondents prioritizing comfort and support for better sleep when shopping for a new mattress, 68 percent reported they sleep longer on their new mattress and 49 percent and 45 percent, respectively, said their stress and anxiety had improved after switching to their new mattress. Almost all mattress owners we surveyed (95 percent) were at least somewhat satisfied with their new mattress. We consulted sleep experts, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and pain specialists to understand what mattresses offer that make an overwhelmingly positive impact.
In order to focus on the mattresses themselves, we structured our test designs to objectively rank each one based on a range of criteria. For example, we tested things like bounce, edge support (the sturdiness of your mattress edge), and cooling capabilities the same way on each mattress and compared the results. That way we can accurately compare each mattress’ score in an unbiased way while also sharing our subjective point of view as mattress testers and experts.
Lastly, we compared warranty lengths, trial periods, and white glove delivery (in-home delivery and setup) options. While most brands offer warranties, not all are comprehensive. And many brands on the market don’t have free white glove delivery. This could be a deal-breaker if you’re nervous to invest in a new mattress because you’re worried the bed won’t get set up properly or offer what you need.
From our tester
“During our research, we realized that the brand’s firmness scale and perceived firmness aren’t always the same. We decided to report how firm we thought the mattress felt so that you can gain a different perspective, but more importantly, feel confident about what you’re purchasing.”
A note on our testing
We acknowledge that every body is different, and what feels comfortable to one person may not feel comfortable to another. Throughout our reviews, we refer to weight categories as light (below 130 pounds), average (130 to 250 pounds), and heavy (above 250 pounds) to distinguish between body weights.
Typically, lighter-weight sleepers perceive mattresses to feel firmer than they are, and higher-weight sleepers perceive mattresses to feel softer than they are. Keep in mind that most mattresses are designed for the average-weight person.
Why HelpGuide cares about a good night’s sleep
Quality sleep is a key part of mental health, physical health, and overall well-being. Sleep helps us reset our bodies, process our emotions, and ease daily stress. Without it, we are at an increased risk of developing anxiety and depression, according to research.
But there are medical conditions that can make sleep difficult. Chronic pain, acid reflux, loud snoring or sleep apnea, and insomnia are issues that can keep you up at night, tossing and turning.
Finding solutions for better sleep can be frustrating, but we’re here to help. The HelpGuide Handbook Team wants to empower you to make the right decision by providing the most honest information about sleep-related products, like mattresses.
Good sleep is essential for physical and mental health because it’s our body’s chance to recharge after the physical and cognitive loads of our day. When we sleep well, we have better relationships and communication with our partners, we can think more clearly, and we’re in a better mood.
Julia Catlin, licensed psychotherapist at Calm Science in Las Vegas.
In order to recommend the best options to fit your needs, we sought to better understand how sleep impacts overall health. We consulted with mental health experts, researchers, and industry leaders in sleep and ergonomics to connect the dots about what really matters in a mattress.
Ultimately, all of our research is directed at taking the stress out of finding the highest-quality products that can support your sleep health—and in turn, your overall mental well-being.
HelpGuide Handbook for memory foam mattresses
Here are the five most important things to know about memory foam mattresses:
We chose the Saatva Loom & Leaf as the best overall memory foam mattress.
The best memory foam mattress for back pain should be medium-firm (firmness level: 6.5/10) because it supports your spine’s natural alignment.
Mattresses made of foam use your body heat to mold the mattress to your body shape to help relieve pressure and pain.
Foam mattresses are less expensive than hybrid mattresses made with foam and innerspring coils.
The top brands offer at least a 100-night trial period.
Compare the best memory foam mattresses in 2024
| Price | $1,595—$3,040 | $699—$1,798 | $839–$2,178 | $786–$1,690 | $936.30–$1,748.80 |
| Firmness | 6-7/10 or 8/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Material | Memory foam | Memory foam | Memory foam | Memory foam | Hybrid (innerspring and memory foam) |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | 10 years |
| Trial period | 365 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 100 nights |
| Best for | Back and side sleepers | Side sleepers | All sleepers | Stomach sleepers | Back and side sleepers |
The best memory foam mattresses reviews
Best memory foam mattress overall: Saatva Loom & Leaf
Most affordable memory foam mattress: Nectar Original Foam
The Nectar Original is an all-memory foam mattress with a top layer of gel memory foam that lightly hugs your body. Because this mattress is delivered to your door compressed, rolled, and sealed in a box, the price is lower than mattresses that are delivered ready to sleep on, such as the Saatva Loom & Leaf.
The Nectar Original has the lowest starting price here, a 365-night trial period, and free delivery—making it our top choice if you’re watching your budget. We found the material sinks deeper than other mattresses our team tested, but some sleepers may like its more cradled feel.
Key product features
- Rating: 9.0/10.
- Material: Memory foam.
- Cost: $699–$1,798
- Warranty: Limited lifetime.
- Trial period: 365 nights.
- Shipping: Free shipping.
- Firmness: 6.5/10.
- Height: 12 inches.
- Sizes available: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king.
Our final verdict
Our testers reported that the Nectar Original Foam mattress had more sinkage and less support than other memory foam mattresses. Despite our testers giving the Nectar Original Foam a low score for support, they still found that their hips and shoulders were supported comfortably when lying on their sides.
From our tester
“When lying on my side, my spine feels neutral, and the mattress supports my torso well. I don’t feel crunched to one side when lying on my side.”
Testers said they felt more “in” than “on” the mattress. This slight sinkage may be the right support for some side sleepers but uncomfortable for others. Someone who is a higher weight or has broader shoulders may feel too much pressure in the shoulder area when sleeping on their side and may do better with a mattress that has more sinkage.
The original Nectar Memory Foam mattress relieved pressure well, allowing pressure points to sink into the mattress. You can see this demonstrated using the 10-pound dumbbell above. Although it had some reinforcement at my midsection during side sleeping, we preferred the Premier Hybrid’s supportive coils.
We don’t recommend this mattress for stomach sleepers. When one of our testers lay on their stomach, the mattress sank too much, so that their hips were out of alignment with their spine. One tester said they felt slightly suffocated by the mattress while lying on their stomach.
This soft, cushioning mattress may not be right for stomach sleepers or higher-weight sleepers, but it’s still one of our top picks if you’re looking for a more affordable memory foam mattress with a deeper hug. The Nectar Original Foam can help relieve pressure on the shoulders and hips for light- or average-weight sleepers—especially if side sleeping is your go-to position.
Some Nectar models contain a harmful substance, fiberglass, that can irritate and harm your upper respiratory tract. Sleepers aren’t exposed to fiberglass unless the mattress is torn or ruptured, but this is something to be aware of while shopping.
Pros and cons of the Nectar Original Foam
Best cooling and gel memory foam mattress: DreamCloud Original Foam
If you’re a sleeper who runs hot, consider the DreamCloud Original Foam mattress. The mattress is thoughtfully designed for coolness and breathability, starting with its cashmere-blend mattress cover. While you might associate cashmere with heavier winter wear, it is actually a lightweight, breathable fabric that doesn’t retain moisture. The mattress cover combined with top layers of gel memory foam Memory foam that contains small gel pods designed to draw heat away from the body. is designed to help keep the mattress cool.
Key product features
- Rating: 9.2/10.
- Material: Memory foam.
- Cost: $839–$2,178
- Warranty: Limited lifetime.
- Trial period: 365 nights.
- Shipping: Free shipping.
- Firmness: 6.5/10
- Height: 12 inches.
- Sizes available: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king.
Our final verdict
There are limitations to testing cooling technology, but DreamCloud’s cooling performance stood out compared to other mattresses. Our testers found that the mattress remained cool even with multiple people occupying the bed. Out of all the mattresses tested, our thermal gun recorded the lowest temperature change after two testers laid on this mattress. Before our testers laid down, the bed registered a reading of 67.5 degrees.
The initial temperature reading of the mattress before testers laid down.
The temperature of the mattress after testers laid on it for five minutes. Note the outline of the testers’ body heat.
After two testers laid on the mattress for five minutes, the thermal gun registered a temperature of 73.4 degrees, which is an increase of 5.9 degrees. An increase of five degrees or fewer after five minutes is considered “excellent” cooling, while five to 10 degrees is considered “good.”
On top of the DreamCloud Original Foam’s cooling technology, we think this mattress is also a win for sleepers who switch positions throughout the night. Our testers noticed it was easy to change positions without feeling stuck, and the mattress gently cradled and supported them in each position—even when lying on their stomach.
We also recommend the DreamCloud Original Foam if you sleep with a partner. In addition to its cooling qualities, we think this mattress is excellent for motion isolation. Our testers measured motion isolation by conducting multiple motion tests that mimicked movements, like getting in and out of bed or adjusting positions during the night. Our tester hardly felt their tester partner on the other side of the mattress.
From our tester
“Their movement on the other side of the mattress was so faint—with my eyes closed I could barely detect it.”
Remember, a plushy foam mattress that’s great at absorbing movement usually doesn’t have much bounce, which may be more challenging for sex. The DreamCloud Original Foam had zero rhythmic bounce, according to our testers. If this is a deal-breaker, check out the Bear Original below for a firmer, bouncier mattress option.
Tip
Choosing the right bed sheets is a big factor for staying cool at night. We recommend bed sheets made of natural, breathable materials like bamboo, cotton, or linen to pair with your DreamCloud mattress.
Pros and cons of the DreamCloud Original Foam
Best firm memory foam mattress: Bear Original
Firmness is probably not the first thing you associate with memory foam, but a firm memory foam mattress is a great option for stomach sleepers. The Bear Original mattress offers you the best of both worlds—a cradled memory foam feeling coupled with the extra support of a firm mattress.
Key product features
- Rating: 9.4/10
- Material: Memory foam.
- Cost: $786–$1,690
- Warranty: Limited lifetime.
- Trial period: 120 nights.
- Shipping: Free shipping.
- Firmness: 8/10.
- Height: 10 inches.
- Sizes available: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king.
Our final verdict
We recommend the Bear Original for stomach sleepers who want an all-foam mattress. Our testers had nothing but good things to report in this position. Their bodies were cushioned and cradled by the three dense foam layers without their hips sinking into the mattress.
From our tester
“The Bear Original is a good choice for stomach sleepers who love foam mattresses. It’s also more responsive than other memory foam mattresses, which is helpful for switching positions or getting out of bed. ”
However, we don’t recommend this firm mattress for lighter-to-average-weight sleepers who prefer sleeping on their side or back. When lying on their back, one tester had neutral spine but felt a small gap between their lower back and the mattress. They predicted their spine would sag into the mattress over time, which would cause discomfort and pain. A mattress should meet your lower back and reinforce it—not the other way around.
Our testers tested the firmness of the Bear mattress by using a 10-pound dumbbell.
Since the Bear Original is such a firm mattress, we think higher-weight sleepers will get better contouring support than they would on softer memory foam mattresses. The denser foam allows the body to sink into the mattress with reinforced support.
Pros and cons of the Bear Original
Best hybrid memory foam mattress: Helix Midnight
Frequently asked questions
A memory foam mattress is made of layers of memory foam. Memory foam is known for its softness, providing pressure relief, absorbing movement, and hugging your body. Many modern memory foam mattresses have different firmness levels and cooling features. There are also “hybrid” memory foam mattresses, meaning the mattress consists of memory foam and innersprings.
How long a memory foam mattress lasts depends on the foam quality. Memory foam mattresses with high-density foam last about eight to 10 years, while low-density foam breaks down quicker and may last three to five years.
We recommend a memory foam mattress for lighter-to-average-weight back and side sleepers. Memory foam mattresses can help relieve pain and pressure points The parts of a sleeper’s body that have the hardest contact with the bed surface, such as the shoulder, hips, ribcage, and tailbone. by supporting and contouring your body. We don’t recommend memory foam mattresses for stomach sleepers or sleepers who run hot. Memory foam mattresses don’t have as much airflow as hybrid or innerspring mattresses, which makes them more likely to trap heat. If you live with chronic pain or mobility issues, consult your doctor on choosing the right mattress. The best mattress is different for everyone, so we always encourage readers to use a mattress’s trial period to test it out. All our best memory foam mattress picks have at least a 100-night trial period (over three months).
We can’t recommend a specific mattress as good for your health, but a memory foam mattress may help relieve pressure and pain. If you have chronic pain, an injury, or mobility issues, speak with your doctor before purchasing a mattress. Note that the foam material may irritate people with asthma or allergies.
No, memory foam mattresses don’t require a box spring. Your mattress type doesn’t determine if you need a box spring; it depends on your bed frame. Most modern bedframes don’t require a box spring. If your bedframe does require a box spring, it can add more height and an additional supportive surface for the mattress.
For general upkeep, vacuum the top of your memory foam mattress once a month. Try spot-treating stains before they dry with a damp cloth, but using too much water may damage the foam mattress. Always check your manufacturer’s guide for specific cleaning instructions.
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