Oh, memory foam. It really is the best. From top-of-the-line TEMPUR-Pedic mattresses to more budget-conscious options, I have slept on so many of these beds. That’s why I was compelled to put together a list of the absolute best memory foam mattresses. I took a lot of factors into consideration when choosing, including luxury, value, and comfort. Keep scrolling for our top ten picks, a video summary, reviews of each of our favorite foam mattresses, and a best memory foam mattress buyer’s guide!
There should be something here for everyone. And if you don’t see what you’re looking for, try taking our mattress quiz for further-tailored recommendations!
Best Memory Foam Mattresses of 2022: Our Top 10 Picks
The best memory foam mattresses are:
- Nectar – Best Overall
- Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid – Best Cooling Mattress
- Helix Midnight – Best Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress for Couples
- DreamCloud – Best Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress
- Layla – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Side Sleepers
- WinkBeds GravityLux – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Combo Sleepers
- Puffy – Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress
- Leesa Original – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Dreamfoam Essential – Best Value Memory Foam Mattress
- TEMPUR-Cloud – Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress
How We Chose Our Best Memory Foam Mattresses
Our team of sleep specialists have reviewed more than 150 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period, and warranty.
One of the strengths of memory foam is its ability to isolate motion and prevent partners from disturbing each other at night. So we wanted to pick products that scored high in this category.
Also, because memory foam tends to trap heat, we also tried to include beds that had additional cooling capabilities in their features and construction.
Video Review: Best Memory Foam Mattresses of 2022
Nectar Mattress
Offering sleepers the classic slow-sinking feeling of memory foam, the Nectar should be a good match for back sleepers, side sleepers, and couples.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Offering sleepers the classic slow-sinking feeling of memory foam, the Nectar should be a good match for back sleepers, side sleepers, and couples.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Offering sleepers the classic slow-sinking feeling of memory foam, the Nectar should be a good match for back sleepers, side sleepers, and couples.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Lying on the Nectar, you get that classic memory foam feeling of slowly sinking into the bed. The comfort layer has an infusion of gel for cooling and pain relief, while the thicker support layer is made up of high-density foam. Back sleepers should experience exceptional contouring and side sleepers should feel little to no pressure on their shoulders and hips. In fact, we’ve chosen the Nectar as one of the best mattresses for hip pain.
What Makes the Nectar Stand Out?
- Considering its design and comfort, I would expect the Nectar to cost much more than it does. But a Queen-size fluctuates between about $800.00 and $999.00, which is a real steal.
- On average, only 3% of customers end up returning their mattress during the 365-night sleep trial!
- The Nectar mattress performed well in our motion transfer tests, making it a great option for couples.
Also, if you’re prone to sleeping hot, Nectar offers two more memory foam mattresses with advanced cooling features: the Nectar Premier mattress and the Nectar Premier Copper mattress.
Read our full Nectar mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses 2022 for more great options.
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
With triple-cooling technology and airflow-promoting coils, the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid helps hot sleepers keep a low temperature at night.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 Nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
With triple-cooling technology and airflow-promoting coils, the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid helps hot sleepers keep a low temperature at night.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
With triple-cooling technology and airflow-promoting coils, the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid helps hot sleepers keep a low temperature at night.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
365 Nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
One of the main drawbacks of memory foam is that it can trap body heat. If you want a memory foam mattress that won’t make you sleep hot, the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid could be right for you. The mattress contains triple cooling technology that helps promote airflow and dissipates body heat. There’s also a layer of durable pocketed coils, which help promote airflow. At the same time, the bed contains some of the most comfortable gel-infused memory foam out there. This means you can get the soft comfort of memory foam without overheating during the night.
What Makes the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Stand Out?
- Since the mattress isn’t compressed during delivery you won’t need to worry about off-gassing and expansion once you get your mattress.
- It’s one of Saatva’s more affordable options.
- Back sleepers should get a nice balance of comfort and support.
Read our full Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Cooling Mattresses for more great options.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Because of its support and ability to isolate motion, the Helix Midnight should be a good fit for anyone who shares a bed with a partner.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Because of its support and ability to isolate motion, the Helix Midnight should be a good fit for anyone who shares a bed with a partner.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Because of its support and ability to isolate motion, the Helix Midnight should be a good fit for anyone who shares a bed with a partner.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
If you sleep with a partner, you want to find a mattress that works for both of you. A hybrid memory foam mattress like the Helix Midnight is a great option! The Helix Midnight is a medium-firm mattress that should be a good fit for multiple sleeping positions. Even if you and your partner sleep in different positions, the Helix Midnight will offer the comfort and support you both require. The top layer of memory foam will also help to cut down on motion transfer so you and your partner don’t disturb each other when you move around at night!
What Makes the Helix Midnight Stand Out?
- The Helix Midnight boasts cooling foam and airflow-promoting coils to keep you from overheating at night.
- While the Helix Midnight features memory foam, it is a responsive mattress that makes it easy to move around and change positions without too much motion transfer.
- It is a great orthopedic mattress that can also alleviate joint and back pain.
Read our full Helix Midnight mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Couples for more great options.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
The DreamCloud is a luxury hybrid, made from a combination of gel-infused memory foam and high-grade support coils. The balance of comfort and support makes it an excellent choice for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
The DreamCloud is a luxury hybrid, made from a combination of gel-infused memory foam and high-grade support coils. The balance of comfort and support makes it an excellent choice for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
The DreamCloud is a luxury hybrid, made from a combination of gel-infused memory foam and high-grade support coils. The balance of comfort and support makes it an excellent choice for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
If you like memory foam, but are worried about getting stuck or sleeping hot, a hybrid mattress could be the way to go. The DreamCloud is a great hybrid mattress that provides a bit of memory foam comfort along with the support of high-grade coils. You’ll experience nice comfort, but you should have no trouble moving around. In addition, the coils promote airflow through the DreamCloud, keeping the mattress nice and breathable. The DreamCloud’s memory foam is gel-infused, which also helps with cooling. If you want a memory foam mattress without the drawbacks, the DreamCloud should work for you!
What Makes the DreamCloud Stand Out?
- The DreamCloud is a luxury mattress sold for a value price.
- Back sleepers should love the DreamCloud’s excellent balance of comfort and support.
- The mattress boasts a bit of a pillow top, giving you that hotel room experience.
Read the full DreamCloud mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Hybrid Mattresses for more great options.
Layla Mattress
The Layla has a flippable design, allowing side sleepers to turn over the mattress to the softer aside for some contouring and pressure relief.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Mattress
The Layla has a flippable design, allowing side sleepers to turn over the mattress to the softer aside for some contouring and pressure relief.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Mattress
The Layla has a flippable design, allowing side sleepers to turn over the mattress to the softer aside for some contouring and pressure relief.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The most unique thing about the Layla is that it’s flippable and provides two firmness options in one bed-in-a-box mattress. One side features soft, pressure-relieving memory foam that’s a fantastic option for side sleepers. In addition, the Layla’s memory foam is infused with copper, which has two benefits. First, it’s cooling and will assist with heat dissipation. It’s also anti-microbial and should keep the mattress free of mildew and mold.
What Makes the Layla Stand Out?
- While the softer side of the Layla is great for side sleepers, the firm side can be a great match for back sleepers.
- There’s no getting around it — the Layla is one of the most comfortable mattresses I’ve ever slept on!
- The Layla also has a Thermogel cover to keep sleepers cool at night.
Read our full Layla mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers for more great options.
WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress
The WinkBeds GravityLux is a very comfortable all-foam mattress. It should be a good match for back, side, and combo sleepers.Â
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress
The WinkBeds GravityLux is a very comfortable all-foam mattress. It should be a good match for back, side, and combo sleepers.Â
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress
The WinkBeds GravityLux is a very comfortable all-foam mattress. It should be a good match for back, side, and combo sleepers.Â
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
The WinkBeds GravityLux features a zoned construction where the center is firmer than the rest of the mattress. This makes it feel softer when side-sleeping, and firmer when back-sleeping and stomach-sleeping. It also contains a proprietary AirCell memory foam that’s more responsive than standard memory foam, so it should be easy for combination sleepers to move around at night.
What Makes the WinkBeds GravityLux Stand Out?
- This all-foam mattress comes in three different firmness models: Soft, Medium, and Firm.
- The AirCell foam should dissipate heat better than other memory foams and could be a better match for hot sleepers. It also contains open-celled foams, a gel layer, and a breathable cover.
- I’m also a huge fan of the WinkBeds Luxury Firm mattress and WinkBeds Plus model, which is made specifically for larger sleepers.
Read our full WinkBeds GravityLux mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Combination Sleepers for more great options.
Puffy Mattress
The Puffy clocks in at a 7/10 on the mattress firmness scale, making it firmer than average and a good fit for back sleepers.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
101 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Puffy Mattress
The Puffy clocks in at a 7/10 on the mattress firmness scale, making it firmer than average and a good fit for back sleepers.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
101 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Puffy Mattress
The Puffy clocks in at a 7/10 on the mattress firmness scale, making it firmer than average and a good fit for back sleepers.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
101 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
On a scale of 1 to 10, we scored the Puffy a 7, just a bit firmer-than-average. The mattress features memory foam over a transition layer over a layer of base foam. Now, firmness is subjective, and light- and medium-weight sleepers might find it to be a bit softer. Conversely, heavier sleepers over 230 lb may find it to be a firmer mattress.
What Makes the Puffy Stand Out?
- No matter your weight, the Puffy will offer a balance of comfort and support.
- Back sleepers of many sizes should feel very comfortable on the Puffy.
- The Puffy should be a great option for hot sleepers. It features a gel infusion and a Climate Comfort Layer that should keep it from trapping heat.
Read our full Puffy mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Firm Mattresses for more great options.
Leesa Original Mattress
Back sleepers should feel themselves sinking into the Leesa's top foam layers, while also getting a slight lift from the firmer base foam below.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Leesa Original Mattress
Back sleepers should feel themselves sinking into the Leesa's top foam layers, while also getting a slight lift from the firmer base foam below.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Leesa Original Mattress
Back sleepers should feel themselves sinking into the Leesa's top foam layers, while also getting a slight lift from the firmer base foam below.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
If you’re a back sleeper, you want to find a mattress with a great balance of comfort and support. The Leesa Original is a memory foam mattress that offers the support of base foam and the comfort of two layers of soft foam. Combined, this gives the bed that perfect medium firmness for back-sleeping. You should feel your hips sink into the top foam layers while the base foam holds up your body. At the same time, the top layers conform to the shape of your body, adding another level of comfort.
What Makes the Leesa Original Mattress Stand Out?
- The Leesa Original offers the comfort of memory foam while still making it easy to move around.
- For a memory foam mattress, the Leesa Original mattress sleeps quite cool.
- The Leesa Original is also a great mattress for side sleepers.
Read our full Leesa Original mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Back Sleepers for more great options.
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Even if you’re looking for the most comfortable memory foam mattress, you don’t want to spend an exorbitant amount of money. The Dreamfoam Essential is extremely comfortable and is also a great deal. At full price, a Queen-size is around $474.00. The mattress comes in multiple thicknesses. You can select from 6″, 8″, 10″, 12″, and 14″.
What Makes the Dreamfoam Essential Stand Out?
- The thicker models are softer than the thinner ones. We personally reviewed the 12″ model.
- The 12″ model has a great balance of comfort and support for back sleepers.
- The Dreamfoam features a cooling cover and gel infusion that should help with heat dissipation and sleeping cool.
Read our full Dreamfoam Essential mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for the Money for more great options.
TEMPUR-Cloud Mattress
The Tempur-Cloud promises to provide the soft comfort consumers have come to expect from Tempur-Pedic mattresses, but for a more affordable price.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
90 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
TEMPUR-Cloud Mattress
The Tempur-Cloud promises to provide the soft comfort consumers have come to expect from Tempur-Pedic mattresses, but for a more affordable price.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
90 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
TEMPUR-Cloud Mattress
The Tempur-Cloud promises to provide the soft comfort consumers have come to expect from Tempur-Pedic mattresses, but for a more affordable price.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
90 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
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 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 average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
When most people think about memory foam, they imagine slow-moving tempur material. If you love to sink into a soft mattress, then the TEMPUR-Cloud could be the one for you. Because tempur material is especially dense, it feels firmer for lightweight people. However, average-weight and heavy people should find this bed to be especially plush. The mattress’ luxurious material also gently contours the body, so it should work really well for side sleepers. In this sleeping position, most people feel zero pressure around their shoulders and hips.
RELATED: Best Soft Mattresses
What Makes the TEMPUR-Cloud Stand Out?
- It isolates motion well, so if you share a bed with someone, you shouldn’t notice too much of your partner’s movement on your side of the mattress.
- The slow-moving tempur material has become renowned throughout the sleep industry
- The mattress contours the body and alleviates pain along pressure points.
Read our full TEMPUR-Cloud mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Soft Mattresses for more great options.
Who Is a Memory Foam Mattress Good For?
- Side sleepers and/or people who want extra pressure relief.
- People who like the feeling of slowly sinking into their mattress.
- People who want a mattress that makes no noise.
- People with pain in their hips, shoulders, or back. Memory foam tends to conform to the curves of the body, meaning it promotes solid spinal alignment. It can also be some of the best material for addressing lower back pain and sciatica.
- People looking for a mattress for an adjustable bed frame.
Who Is a Memory Foam Mattress Not Good For?
- People who want a bouncy sleeping surface.
- People who like the feeling of sleeping on top of their mattress rather than slowly sinking into it.
- People who are overly concerned about sleeping hot. See our list of the best latex mattresses for some of the most breathable mattresses out there.
What Does Memory Foam Feel Like?
If someone pushes their hand into memory foam and then quickly removes it, the foam takes several seconds to return to its initial form.
Lying on a memory foam mattress, people will feel that they’re slowly sinking into the surface. There’s almost no bounce at all, and it’s harder to move around and switch positions in bed. Some people absolutely love this feel, while others don’t like it at all.
Memory foam is known for the pressure-relieving qualities that come with the sinking and slow-moving feel of these types of mattresses, so if you’re shopping for a mattress for joint pain, memory foam could be a great option for you!
What Makes a Memory Foam Mattress More or Less Expensive?
| More Expensive | Less Expensive |
| Thicker layers of memory foam | Thinner layers of memory foam |
| High-density foam | Lower-density foam |
| Has cooling features | Does not use cooling technology |
| Uses coils for the support layer | Uses polyfoam for the support layer |
- If the mattress contains a thick layer of memory foam on top, then the mattress will more than likely be more expensive due to the extra materials used in its construction.
- If the memory foam used in the mattress is higher-density, that typically means the mattress will be more expensive, but also more durable.
- If the memory foam has been chemically formulated to sleep cool or be more breathable, the mattress will probably be more expensive. Cooling features to keep an eye out for that may make a mattress more expensive include Phase Change Material, copper infusions, and gel infusions.
- If the mattress uses coils as the support system instead of polyfoam, it will probably be more expensive. However, foam hybrid constructions like this can be more long-lasting than an all-foam construction.
How Much Memory Foam Should Be in a Mattress?
Some mattresses will have just an inch or two of memory foam, while others will have four to six inches. Customers should take note of how much of this material is actually in the mattresses they’re considering.
| Sleep Position | How Much Memory Foam Do You Need? |
| Stomach sleepers | 1 to 2 inches |
| Back sleepers | 2 to 3 inches |
| Side sleepers | 3 to 5 inches |
- Stomach sleepers don’t need quite as much pressure relief and need to prevent their hips from sinking in too far. For this reason, they’ll only want one or two inches of memory foam in their mattress.
- Back sleepers will want their hips to sink in a little bit so that the foam can conform to the curves of the body and their lumbar area can be properly supported. Two or three inches of memory foam should do the trick.
- Side sleepers usually need more pressure relief, which means they need more “comfort” material, especially if they’re a heavier sleeper. Three to five inches of memory foam should give them the best sleeping experience.
Memory Foam vs Spring Mattresses
- Memory foam generally provides better pressure relief than spring mattresses, and it also conforms better to the curves of the body, potentially helping to promote better spinal alignment. This can make memory foam significantly better for people with pain issues.
- Spring mattresses do tend to sleep cooler because the coils can promote airflow through the mattress, while the chemical nature of memory foam makes those mattresses potentially trap heat more easily.
- Spring mattresses have more bounce overall. Depending on personal preference, this could be a positive or a negative.
RELATED: Memory Foam vs Innerspring Mattresses
Memory Foam vs Latex Mattresses
- Memory foam will have better pressure relief than latex mattresses do, and it will also be better at conforming to the curves of the body.
- In general, latex mattresses will sleep cooler than memory foam because of the more open-celled chemical makeup of latex.
- Latex mattresses will be much bouncier than memory foam mattresses.
- Memory foam is slow-reacting and akin to quicksand, while Latex is immediately responsive.
RELATED: Memory Foam vs Latex Mattresses
Memory Foam vs Hybrid Mattresses
- Because they combine a foam comfort layer (or layers) with support coils rather than polyfoam, hybrid mattresses should be more expensive on average. Coils tend to be pricier to manufacture than polyfoam.
- Hybrid mattresses should have a little more bounce than standard memory foam mattresses.
- Hybrid mattresses will be a little bit more breathable because the coils leave so much space for air to flow.
RELATED: Memory Foam vs Hybrid Mattresses
What Are the Different Types of Memory Foam?
- Standard Memory Foam: This refers to memory foam that doesn’t feature additional formulations or infusions. The density can range between 2.5 and 7 lb. Standard memory foam will have a slower response and is more likely to trap heat than specialty memory foam.
- Gel Memory Foam: One of the big innovations in the sleep industry has been to infuse gel beads into memory foam. The gel will ideally act as a conductor to draw heat away, which helps make for a cooler sleeping surface. Some studies show that this can be a fairly effective way to prevent the foam from overheating, but the effect may be limited.
- Plant-Based Memory Foam: Some memory foam has a portion of it replaced with bio-based foam (typically from soy). This makes the foam a little more “green,” even if it is only 25 to 30% plant-based.
- Copper-Infused Memory Foam: Copper is a natural heat conductor and features excellent moisture-wicking capabilities. It will help draw heat and moisture away from sleepers and allow them to sleep cooler at night. In addition, it’s anti-microbial and will help keep the mattress free of mold, mildew, and odors.
- Open-Celled Memory Foam: Some memory foam is more “open-celled,” which means its chemical nature has been altered to be more breathable.
- Fast-Response Memory Foam: Some mattress companies have recently developed memory foam that’s faster to respond than standard memory foam. This prevents the feeling of getting stuck that some sleepers often complain about.
Memory Foam Density Level and Firmness
When reading memory foam mattress reviews, customers will come across density levels quite a bit. Typically, I have found (and studies show) that the higher the density, the following is true:
- More materials go into a higher-density foam, so you should almost always expect to pay more for it. High-density foams will usually be higher than 4 lb. A medium density will be in the 3.5 to 4 lb. range, and low-density will be anything 3 lb. or less.
- Generally, the higher the density, the longer the mattress will last.
- The higher the density of the foam, the less motion transfer one will experience. Those who sleep with a partner should consider a mattress with high-density memory foam.
- More density means more support. Higher-density foam does a better job of contouring to the body so, if someone has back pain, they will want a higher-density memory foam mattress.
One last thing to consider in regards to density is Indentation Load Deflection (ILD), the a measure of how firm the memory foam is in a mattress. More specifically, it’s a measure of how much weight or force must be put on the memory foam to compress it by 25%. The higher the number, the more weight has to be applied to compress that memory foam. So in a nutshell, the higher the ILD, the firmer the memory foam. A mattress with an ILD of 10–12 is going to be softer than one that has an ILD of 18–20.
RELATED: Best Mattress for Neck and Shoulder Pain
How Do You Keep Memory Foam Mattresses from Sleeping Hot?
Using plant-based foam has been shown to be very effective, as has laminating a layer of gel onto the foam. Companies can also use “open-celled” foam, which is a type of foam that allows more air to pass freely through it.
When it comes to gel, mattress companies really turn on the marketing machine. They will charge customers thousands of dollars more for certain types of gels that aren’t actually more effective (though they do sound amazing). One material to keep an eye out for that really does help with cooling is Phase Change Material. At a very basic level, Phase Change Material absorbs body heat throughout the night, pulling it away from you and storing it until you cool off. At this point, it will release the heat to help regulate your body temperature. The Nectar Premier Copper is one of my favorite memory foam mattresses that features this material.
Off-Gassing Memory Foam Mattresses
New memory foam mattresses typically give off a chemical smell when they’re unboxed. This is called “mattress off-gassing“. It’s not a concern for the long-term, but the smell can potentially last as long as a week, depending on the mattress brand. With some mattresses, the smell is very faint and completely goes away within 24 hours. Either way, just place the bed in a well-ventilated room or open a window so it has time to off-gas.
Tips for Getting the Best Value Memory Foam Mattress
- Order online unless a retail store is having an incredible sale. Since the mattress is all-foam, it can be compressed and shipped from a factory to the customer’s door, cutting out the middleman and providing savings for the consumer. The Internet is truly one of the best places to buy a mattress right now.
- If you are buying through a retail store, you should wait for a sale. Black Friday, Labor Day, and President’s Day are big days for mattress sales, where customers will see up to 70% off some of the big-name brands.
- Higher-quality mattresses will last much longer than lower-quality ones. If someone purchases a cheap low-quality mattress, they may save money in the short term, but may find themselves shopping for a replacement sooner than they had planned.
- Make sure you read up on the mattress warranty to see what options you have if the mattress starts to break down prematurely.
Summary
Here’s a summary of our top picks for the best memory foam mattresses:
| Mattress | Superlative |
| Nectar | Best Overall |
| Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid | Best Cooling Mattress |
| Helix Midnight | Best Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress for Couples |
| DreamCloud | Best Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress |
| Layla | Best Memory Foam Mattress for Side Sleepers |
| WinkBeds GravityLux | Best Memory Foam Mattress for Combination Sleepers |
| Puffy | Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress |
| Leesa Original | Best Memory Foam Mattress for Back Sleepers |
| Dreamfoam Essential | Best Value Memory Foam Mattress |
| TEMPUR-Cloud | Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress |
FAQs
What are the benefits of memory foam mattresses?
When it comes to pros, memory foam mattresses are very comfortable and can relieve pressure especially well since the foam contours the body. They can also help relieve hip and back pain. This may be especially beneficial for side sleepers. Memory foam mattresses may also be beneficial for couples or for people who toss and turn often in their sleep since there is little motion transfer in foam mattresses.
What are some of the issues with memory foam mattresses?
When it comes to cons, memory foam mattresses are sometimes known for sleeping hot since the material doesn’t always allow for a lot of airflow. The fact that memory foam contours the body also may make you feel like you’re sinking in the mattress and may make it more difficult to change positions at night.
What is the best inexpensive memory foam mattress?
Those who are seeking an inexpensive memory foam mattress should consider the Nectar and Dreamfoam Essential mattresses. The Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that costs between about $800.00 and $1300.00 for a Queen-size. Dreamfoam offers their Essential mattress for just under $500.00 for a Queen.
What is the best memory foam mattress for side sleepers?
Side sleepers are going to want to find a mattress that is softer-than-average. We recommend the Layla and, to talk about a mattress that isn't on this list, the Amerisleep AS4. Both mattresses are softer-than-average and should relieve most pressure on the shoulders and hips. The Layla and Amerisleep AS4 also performed very well on our pressure map test.
Are memory foam mattresses good for your back?
Like anything else, it depends on the sleeper and the mattress. But in general, a memory foam mattress that's close to medium-firm and conforms to the shape of the sleeper's body should be good for your back. The Leesa is an example of such a bed.
Does a memory foam mattress need a box spring?
The answer is more complex than you think. On one hand, a memory foam mattress is firm enough to lie flat on a floor or any other type of level surface. On the other hand, a box spring provides additional support, and you may also enjoy the extra height it provides. However, you only want to use one if you have a metal bed frame. If you have a platform bed, wooden slats, or adjustable bed as your sleep foundation, you shouldn't use a box spring.
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