The 6 Best Memory Foam Mattresses of 2024
Are you shopping for a new mattress? You’ve come to the right place. At ASL Reviews, we’ve done extensive research to compile a comprehensive list of the top-rated memory foam mattresses. We’ve considered sleeping positions, sleep preferences, price, customer reviews, warranties, brand reputation, and more to bring you the best memory foam mattresses of 2024.
It can be difficult to determine which memory foam mattress is right for you. So, we’ve created a buyer’s guide to help you find the best memory foam mattress for your needs. We’ll discuss the different types of memory foam mattresses, their benefits, and considerations to help you make an informed decision.
- Last Updated: April 26, 2024
Best Memory Foam Mattresses
- Puffy – Overall Best Memory Foam Mattress
- Nolah Original 10″ – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Hip Pain
- Serta iComfort – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Nectar – Best Value Memory Foam Mattress
- WinkBeds GravityLux – Best Cooling Memory Mattress for Hot Sleepers
- Amerisleep AS3 – Best Memory Foam Mattress for back pain
Type – Memory Foam
Firmness – Medium to Medium-Firm
Sleep Trial – 101-Nights
Warranty – Lifetime
Shipping – Free Shipping & Returns
The Puffy Mattress is known for its exceptional value, offering high-quality features at an affordable price point. With its medium to medium-firm feel, the Puffy mattress balances gentle pressure relief with solid support. Mattresses in this firmness range are designed to provide universal comfort. While Puffy could be a good choice for all sleep positions, we think it’s ideal for side and back sleepers.
The mattress features a layer of memory foam known for its ability to conform to your body’s shape and provide pressure relief. Noted for its cloud-like feel, Puffy helps alleviate pain and discomfort, particularly for those with back or joint issues. In addition to the memory foam layer, the Puffy mattress also has a supportive foam layer that helps maintain proper spinal alignment, providing enhanced support and stability. This layer responds to pressure quickly, providing good ease of movement, a bonus for combination sleepers.
To further enhance comfort, the mattress includes a cool gel layer that helps regulate body temperature and prevents overheating during sleep. With its exceptional value and affordable price point, the Puffy Mattress is a good option for those looking for a high-quality memory foam mattress without breaking the bank.
Type – AirFoam
Firmness – Medium
Sleep Trial – 120-Nights
Warranty – Lifetime
Shipping – Free Shipping
The Nolah Original 10″ is a popular memory foam alternative featuring AirFoam. This unique foam blend provides four times more pressure relief than traditional memory foam, making it one of the best mattresses for individuals with chronic pain as it helps to alleviate pressure on the shoulders, hips, spine, and lower back.
AirFoam boasts several other unique benefits, including a faster response time, making it easy to move around on the mattress without feeling stuck. Good ease of movement is especially important for combination sleepers. And unlike traditional memory foam that can trap heat, AirFoam is designed to promote airflow and regulate temperature, making it a popular choice for hot sleepers as well.
Overall, the Nolah Original 10″ offers the perfect balance of comfort and support, with a medium feel that is best suited for side, back, and combination sleepers. If you suffer from hip or shoulder pain, arthritis, or other chronic pain conditions, Nolah is definitely worth considering and should be at the top of your list.
Type – Hybrid
Firmness – Multiple
Sleep Trial – 120-Nights
Warranty – Lifetime
Shipping – Free Shipping & Returns
The Serta iComfort Max Cooling and Pressure Relief Upgrade (CF4000) is designed to provide the ultimate sleeping experience for side sleepers. This mattress is packed with cooling features and comes in three different firmness options – ultra-plush, plush, and firm – to cater to a wide range of sleeping preferences. The ultra-plush option is ideal for strict side sleepers, providing comfort and support without sacrificing the balance between the two.
The mattress’s thick comfort layers have a slow response feel, providing deep sinkage and contouring, melting away stubborn pressure points. But what really sets the CF4000 apart from the competition is a layer of Air Support Foam. This innovative foam layer includes circular cut-outs, adding targeted pressure relief while maintaining support where it’s needed most.
With its combination of comfort, support, and temperature regulation, the Serta iComfort Mattress is the ideal choice for anyone looking for a memory foam mattress specifically designed for side sleepers.
Type – Memory Foam
Firmness – Medium
Sleep Trial – 365-Nights
Warranty – Lifetime
Shipping – Free Shipping & Returns
For those searching for a memory foam mattress that won’t break the bank, the Nectar Mattress is the ideal choice. This mattress provides excellent value for your money, offering a host of premium features at an affordable price.
The Nectar mattress provides loads of deep contouring and pressure relief for a classic memory foam feel. The top layer of gel-infused memory foam has a slow bounce back, allowing you to really sink into the layers for a deep cradling sensation that melts away the pressure.
Overall, Nectar has a medium firmness that supports a wide range of sleeping positions. You’ll find yourself sleeping “in” this mattress rather than on top, which can make it a wonderful option for side sleepers. At the same time, the base layer provides enough support to make it a suitable choice for back and even some stomach sleepers. Additionally, the Nectar Mattress is certified by CertiPUR-US, which means it is made without harmful chemicals and is safe for your home!
When it comes to value, few mattresses pack a punch like Nectar. Nectar comes with a 365-night sleep trial—one of the longest sleep trials in the industry. This gives you plenty of time to ensure your choice is the right one, not just the most affordable one. They also offer a lifetime warranty to back their product.
Type – Memory Foam
Firmness – Soft, Medium, or Firm
Sleep Trial – 100-Nights
Warranty – 10-year limited
Shipping – Free Shipping & Returns
The WinkBeds GravityLux Memory Foam Mattress is designed with the hot sleepers in mind and is the perfect solution for a comfortable and cool night’s sleep. Made in the USA with American-sourced materials, the GravityLux is packed with innovative cooling technologies, such as gel-infused foam and a eucalyptus-derived Tencel mattress cover that help regulate body temperature and prevent moisture buildup. Furthermore, the patented AirCell memory foam reduces heat buildup, allowing heat to dissipate.
Available in three different comfort levels (soft, medium, and firm), the GravityLux offers a personalized sleeping experience. The mattress has zoned progression technology, which offers targeted pressure relief for hips and shoulders while ensuring optimal support in the lumbar region, making it suitable for all sleep positions. The 1.8lb density ATLAS Core base layer adds extra support and durability to the mattress, and the use of CertiPUR-US certified foams and dyes ensures a safe and eco-friendly product for your home and family.
With its advanced cooling features, the GravityLux is ideal for hot sleepers!
Type – Memory Foam
Firmness – Medium
Sleep Trial – 100-Nights
Warranty – 20-years
Shipping – Free Shipping & Returns
An estimated 80% of Americans will experience back pain at some point. If this is a deciding factor, you are certainly not alone. With five different firmness options to choose from, Amerisleep has a mattress to suit every sleep position, but it’s also an excellent option for anyone who suffers from back pain. From the plush, deep contouring of the Amerisleep AS5 to the firm support of the AS1, Amerisleep has your needs covered.
Amerisleep’s most popular model, the AS3, is a versatile mattress that blends support and comfort seamlessly while promoting proper alignment for a healthy spine, a key component in combatting back pain.
In addition to being a top pick for back pain sufferers, Amerisleep is a solid choice for anyone who sleeps hot. Made from eco-friendly, plant-based foam, Amerisleep features an open-cell design that enhances the breathability and cooling benefits of the mattress.
And because you’ll be sleeping more “on” the mattress than in it, it’s also an excellent choice for couples and combination sleepers. The Bio-Pur® foam quickly bounces back, reducing motion transfer and eliminating any feeling of being stuck in the mattress. This also makes it a great choice if you tend to be a restless sleeper prone to moving around a lot through the night.
Is A Memory Foam Mattress Right For You?
It depends on personal preferences and sleeping habits. Memory foam mattresses provide excellent pressure relief and support for the body. They also tend to isolate motion well, which is great for couples. However, some people may find memory foam too warm or slow to respond to movement, and others may prefer a different type of mattress, such as innerspring or latex. Consider your needs and sleep preferences before making a purchase.
RELATED: Benefits of a Memory Foam Mattress
How does memory foam compare to other mattress types?
Memory foam mattresses have several unique qualities compared to other mattress types:
- Pressure relief: Memory foam conforms to your body’s shape to reduce pressure on joints, making it great for people with pain or discomfort.
- Motion isolation: Memory foam is known to absorb motion well, which makes it a popular choice for couples.
- Heat retention: Some memory foam mattresses tend to retain heat, which can be uncomfortable for some people. However, many modern memory foam mattresses have cooling features to alleviate this issue.
- Response time: Memory foam has a slow response time, meaning it takes time for it to adjust to changes in position. Some people find this slow response time to be a drawback. Plant-based memory foam and memory foam alternatives typically have a faster response time, offering better ease of movement.
In comparison, innerspring mattresses offer good support and a bouncy feel but can have limited motion isolation and may not be as effective at relieving pressure. Latex mattresses are known for being bouncy, responsive, and cooling but may not conform to the body as closely as memory foam.
Ultimately, it is important to consider your individual preferences and needs when choosing a mattress type.
What Should I Look For When Buying A Memory Foam Mattress?
When buying a new mattress mattress, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Firmness- Mattresses come in many different levels of firmness, so it’s important to choose one that suits your personal preference.
- Density- Higher-density foams will be more durable and supportive but also more expensive.
- Comfort layer thickness- The thickness of the comfort layer will affect the overall feel and comfort of the mattress. Generally, the thicker the comfort layer, the plusher the feel of the mattress.
- Cooling features- Some memory foam mattresses have temperature-regulating features such as gel-infused foam or breathable covers to help regulate temperature.
- Motion isolation- If you share your bed with a partner, look for a memory foam mattress with good motion isolation; this will reduce nighttime disturbances.
- Brand reputation- Research the brand and read customer reviews to gauge the quality and satisfaction of their products.
- Sleep Trial- Most online mattress companies offer a sleep trial or return period, usually 100 nights, but some brands may offer longer or shorter periods. The trial length may vary based on the manufacturer, so make sure to read the fine print.
- Warranty and return policy- Check the warranty and return policy before purchasing to ensure you are protected if the mattress doesn’t meet your expectations.
Are there any negative health effects associated with memory foam?
It is generally considered safe for most people, but some concerns have been raised regarding its potential health effects:
- Off-gassing: Some memory foam mattresses emit strong odors, known as off-gassing, which may cause headaches, dizziness, or respiratory irritation in some people.
- Heat retention: Some memory foam mattresses retain heat, leading to discomfort and sweating during sleep.
- Allergic reactions: Memory foam can contain chemicals such as formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds that can cause allergic reactions or irritate some people’s skin. Check out our guide to the Best Mattresses for Allergies.
- Respiratory problems: Some people have reported breathing difficulties while sleeping on memory foam, although this is rare.
It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these negative health effects. Many modern memory foam mattresses have been designed to address these concerns, for example, by using low-emission foams or adding cooling features.
If you have any concerns or are experiencing negative health effects, it’s recommended to consult with a doctor and consider changing to a different type of mattress.
Are there any eco-friendly options available?
Yes, there are eco-friendly options available for memory foam mattresses. Some features to look for when choosing an environmentally friendly memory foam mattress include:
- CertiPUR-US Certified foam: This certification means the foam has been tested and certified to be free of harmful chemicals and emissions.
- Plant-based foams: Some memory foam mattresses, such as Amerisleep, are made with a percentage of plant-based materials, which reduces the use of petroleum-based products and can also have a lower carbon footprint.
- Recyclable materials: Some memory foam mattresses are designed with recyclable components. Other mattress brands help reduce waste in landfills by donating returned mattresses to those in need.
- Sustainable manufacturing practices: Look for brands that prioritize sustainability in their manufacturing processes, such as reducing energy consumption or using environmentally friendly materials.
Bear in mind that memory foam mattresses may be more expensive than traditional memory foam mattresses. Still, they offer the added benefit of being better for the environment and potentially better for your health.
FAQs
Q: What is a memory foam mattress made of?
Invented in the 1960s for NASA, the padding material in a memory foam mattress consists of polyurethane and other chemicals designed to increase viscosity and density. These chemicals can include polyols, diisocyanates, formaldehyde, benzene, and naphthalene, among others. A memory foam mattress is usually denser than other foam mattresses, making it more supportive and heavier.
Q: Will a memory foam mattress make me hot while sleeping?
Many memory foam mattresses have an issue retaining body heat because memory foam is dense and lacks interconnected air channels. However, memory foam mattress options are available that have gel or copper-infused memory foam or added air channels to improve ventilation.
Q: What foundation should I use under a memory foam mattress?
A bed foundation is critically important to a mattress’s performance and your comfort. Sleeping on the wrong foundation can cause your mattress to dip prematurely, and sag, so proper support is necessary. At the same time, certain foundations may cause heat to become more readily trapped inside your memory foam mattress.
While most foundations and frames should work for your new mattress, foundations that have spaces to let air flow through the bottom and clear out accumulated heat may prevent overheating best. Zoma recommends a foundation with slats no more than 3 inches apart and at least 0.5 inches thick.
Q: What is ILD?
ILD, or Impression Load Deflection, is the measure of the softness or firmness of a foam mattress. The higher the ILD, the firmer the mattress. It is measured by pressing a 12-inch round disk into a 4-inch piece of foam until it presses 25% or one inch into the mattress surface. The amount of pressure needed to compress the mattress to that extent is the ILD.
Q: What is the ILD for the memory foam?
Most memory foam mattresses on the market rate between 10 and 16 ILD.
Q: How long does a memory foam mattress last?
High-quality memory foam mattresses can last between 8 and 10 years when properly cared for. While factors such as weight and frequency of use can affect the lifespan of your mattress, choosing medium to high-density foams over low-density foams can significantly increase life expectancy. Amerisleep states that the “goldilocks” range for most sleepers is between 4.0-5.3 lbs in the comfort layer, providing the ideal balance between comfort and durability.
Q: What is the difference between an innerspring mattress and a memory foam mattress?
Memory foam mattresses are known to provide exceptional comfort. Using your body’s heat, memory foam contours and relieves pressure as it molds to your curves. Innerspring mattresses feature springs or coils which provide more responsiveness and bounce. The coils also allow for greater airflow. In general, innerspring mattresses provide a cooler, more breathable sleep experience. Hybrids are an increasingly popular pick for those who wish to combine the best qualities of memory foam and innerspring mattresses.
Q: Does Sleep Number make a memory foam mattress?
Yes, Sleep Number’s m7 SMART BED is a memory foam bed. It has cooling memory foam and has the added benefit of Sleep Number’s adjustability enhancements.
Q: Is a memory foam mattress good for allergies?
Memory foam has anti-microbial and anti-dust mite properties, creating a healthier sleeping environment. Latex and memory foam mattresses are generally considered top picks for those who suffer from allergies.
Q: How Can I Choose A Safe Memory Foam Mattress?
The following steps will allow you to minimize health risks when choosing a memory foam mattress:
- Opt for plant-based memory foam, such as that found in the Amerisleep mattress. They reduce the use of petrochemicals and increase the breathability and cooling of the mattress.
- Look for mattresses with CertiPUR-US and/or Greenguard Gold certifications. These certifications ensure your mattress will have low VOC emissions. Opt for foams made in the US or Europe, as these foams are held to stricter regulations.
- Choose a mattress with a natural fire-retardant sock, such as wool. If this is not available, look for CertiPUR-US certifications that ensure the fire sock does not contain BPDEs, TDCPP, or TCEP flame retardants.
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