Skip to Content

The Best Memory Foam Mattresses of 2023

These top-tested foam brands offer pressure relief and cradling comfort.

By
best memory foam mattress casper original foam mattress

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Memory foam mattresses stand out for their unparalleled comfort and pressure relief. As soon as you lie down, the foam conforms to your body and takes weight off of your shoulders and hips so it feels like you're floating. But since memory foam quality can vary — with some being more prone to issues like sagging, off-gassing and overheating — it's important to pay special attention when choosing your mattress.

The bedding experts in the Good Housekeeping Textiles Lab extensively test mattresses for every preference. We review the materials and specifications, have our analysts and testers try out the beds for firsthand feedback and survey our proprietary consumer panel to get insight into the models they've purchased. In recent years, we've surveyed more than 10,000 mattress owners and reviewed responses to over 170,000 questions. When picking out the best memory foam mattresses, we consider aspects like comfort, support, durability, motion isolation, ease of set up, temperature regulation and more.

What's the best memory foam mattress? Our top pick is the Casper Original Mattress. Not only did Casper lead the way for convenient online mattress shopping, but this model was one of the most popular mattresses among our panel. It has zoned sections in the foam to provide ergonomic support and offers a good balance of quality construction with an excellent value.

Our top picks

You can learn more about how we test memory foam mattresses and what to keep in mind as you shop at the end of this article. But, first, here's everything you need to know about our top-tested memory foam mattresses, with prices listed for queen sizes. And if you're looking for more memory foam options to add to your bed, check out our best memory foam pillows and best memory foam mattress toppers.


Best Mattresses | Best Mattresses in a Box | Best Online Mattresses | Best Cheap Mattresses | Best Innerspring Mattress | Best Hybrid Mattresses | Best Organic Mattresses | Best Latex Mattresses | Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers | Best Mattresses for Back Pain | Best Cooling Mattresses

1
Best Overall Memory Foam Mattress

Casper Original Foam Mattress

On Sale
Original Foam Mattress
Now 15% Off
$1,100 at Amazon
Credit: Casper
Pros
  • Zoned sections for ergonomic support
  • Perforated top layer for breathability
  • High scores for ease of set up and comfort
Cons
  • Some users told us it felt softer than expected

Casper is one of the most popular mattress brands in the industry, and feedback from over 130 users on our consumer panel confirms it lives up to the hype. For starters, this model uses a smart construction that allows for increased airflow and ergonomic support. On top of that, it includes fast and free shipping so you won't have to wait weeks for in-home delivery. The brand has been around for nearly a decade, but this "Original" model has gone through upgrades in recent years.

And while Casper offers a wide range of models at various price points, we've found that this one gives you the best bang for your buck, thanks to its standout construction for a reasonable price. It's made up of three layers of foam: a perforated layer of cushioning foam on top for comfort and breathability, a zoned layer in the middle that's softer around your shoulders yet firmer at the hips and lower back to keep you aligned, and finally a durable base layer to prevent sinking and sagging.

Tester notes: Overall, this mattress earned high scores across the board with users specifically highlighting the comfort, motion isolation and the fact that it's not too high so it's easy to put their sheets on the bed. One told us, "It is extremely comfy — so comfy that we bought two more for other beds." Others highlighted how well "it conforms to your body" and said, "It helps with motion transfer much more than the old innerspring mattress I had." Just note that although it's rated as a "medium firm" (i.e., more firm than medium), some reviewers told us it felt softer than expected.

Firmness levelMedium firm
Height11"
Foam layers3
Available sizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Trial period100 days
Price range$895 to $1,520
2
Best Value Memory Foam Mattress

Zinus 10 Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress

10 Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress
Credit: Zinus
Pros
  • Affordable under $500
  • Bestseller on Amazon
  • Testers said it conformed well to their bodies
Cons
  • Lacks edge support
  • We couldn't validate its green tea and charcoal performance claims

Mattress prices have skyrocketed in recent years, with most now costing over $1,000 for a queen. This model is a total steal with a price that's much lower than others, plus it's a bestseller on Amazon with over 145,000 reviews and an average 4.4-star rating. On top of that, it gets great feedback from users on our panel. It contains three layers of foam, including a plush foam on top with a more supportive foam on the bottom.

While this 10-inch model has a plush feel, it's also available in firmer 6- or 8-inch options for an even lower price in addition to a 12-inch thickness that costs slightly more. Just note that although the brand makes claims, like having a green tea infusion to keep it fresh and charcoal to absorb moisture, we couldn't validate these in our evaluations.

Tester notes: We reviewed feedback from over 120 people that own a Zinus mattress, with this model being by far the most popular. Most users loved the plush feel, calling it "not too hard and not too soft." Our testers and analysts also found it to conform nicely to their bodies. On the downside, we found it to lack edge support (meaning it sinks in when you sit on the sides) and users noted the odor upon opening took a while to dissipate. Though it got mixed reviews overall, we feel this one is a great pick for anyone that's looking to spend as little as possible on a memory foam mattress.

Be aware: There’s a class-action lawsuit filed against Zinus, where users are saying they unzipped the mattress and found that fiberglass — which is sometimes used as a flame retardant inside of mattresses — is causing health issues and product damage. A Zinus spokesperson told Good Housekeeping that customers should follow label instructions, which includes not removing the outer mattress cover. The brand also encourages customers to contact customer service if they have questions about how to care for their mattresses.

Firmness levelPlush
Height10"
Foam layers3
Available sizesTwin, Full, Queen, King
Trial periodn/a
Price range$189 to $399
3
Best Memory Foam Mattress for Back Pain

Nolah Original 10”

Original 10”
Now 35% Off
Credit: Nolah
Pros
  • Users said it relieved their discomfort
  • Good balance of pressure relief and support
  • Testers say it feels cool for foam
Cons
  • Intended specifically for side sleepers

Not only does Nolah's model check off the boxes for the best mattress for back pain (i.e., memory foam with a medium firmness), but real users swear it actually worked to relieve their discomfort. It offers good pressure point relief without sacrificing support, plus it helps keep your spine in alignment, especially if you're a side sleeper, which this mattress is designed for.

Like others, it uses three layers of foam with the cushioning foam on top and denser support foam on the bottom. It also comes in a "hybrid" version that's still technically all foam, but has cut-outs to mimic the responsiveness of coils. Both versions were well-loved by testers, but the hybrid version costs more.

Tester notes: From tight shoulders to back and hip pain, our panelists found relief after using this mattress. One told us it "offers back support while still cradling pressure points. It has been significantly helpful in relieving back pain for my husband who has scoliosis." Similarly, a tester of the hybrid version said, "On the first day of testing, I went to bed with a strained back from hours of sitting at my desk. When I woke up the next day, the pain was completely gone."

Besides the back pain relief, users told us that it sleeps surprisingly cool (a big feat considering memory foam is known to trap heat). Beyond that, one that's had it for four years said it has kept its shape well.

Firmness levelMedium
Height10"
Foam layers3
Available sizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Trial period120 days
Price range$799 to $1,918
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
4
Best Memory Foam Mattress for Side Sleepers

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud

TEMPUR-Cloud
Now 30% Off
Credit: Tempur-Pedic
Pros
  • Adapts to your body shape
  • Excellent motion isolation
  • Save 30% off full price with code CLOUD30
Cons
  • Pricier than other foam models

When it comes to memory foam, Tempur-Pedic mattresses are among the most widely recognized because the brand has been around for over 30 years. And though most models typically cost several thousand dollars, this boxed version is more affordable while still using the popular proprietary memory foam, which offers superior pressure relief and motion isolation. It still costs more than most all-foam mattresses, but you can take 30% off using code CLOUD30.

It's perfect for side sleepers because it takes weight off pressure points and helps keep the spine aligned. Though it may feel a bit firm when you first lie down, the foam slowly adapts to your body to create a cradling feel.

Tester notes: "The foam is lovely if you like that feeling of sinking into a warm hug when you sleep. We can’t deny that we slept well on this mattress," said one tester, who added, "We were delighted with the comfort." Another user described it by saying, "I feel like my entire body is supported in a very gentle way." Overall, this mattress earned high ratings for comfort and support, with users saying it led to quality sleep. They also said the foam holds up well over the years, and one noted it "was definitely a major upgrade" when comparing it to other foam models.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Experts Share Why Tempur-Pedic's Tempur-Cloud is a Worthy Investment

Firmness levelMedium
Height10"
Foam layers3
Available sizesTwin, Twin Long, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Trial period90 days
Price range$1,699 to $2,399
5
Best Cooling Memory Foam Mattress

Purple Mattress

Mattress
Credit: Purple
Pros
  • Users say it feels cool all night
  • Squishy yet supportive top layer offers pressure relief and motion isolation
  • 300-pound capacity per side for heavier body weights
Cons
  • May take longer to ship than other foam models

Memory foam tends to trap heat, but Purple uses a GelFlex Grid, which is a unique elastic top layer that promotes more breathability. This grid also has a squishy yet firm feel that offers exceptional support, pressure relief and motion isolation. It doesn't have as much of a sink-in feel as other memory foam models, but it still gives you the incredible comfort.

Besides being good for hot sleepers, this mattress is also ideal for couples because of how well it prevents you from feeling your sleeping partner's movements. It also has a 600-pound weight capacity (or 300 pounds on each side), making it suitable for heavier body weights.

Tester notes: Testers told us it felt significantly cooler than other beds they've owned and said it led to better sleep. They also highlighted how they couldn't feel their sleeping parters move around at night. Beyond that, users said it was the perfect balance of soft and firm. One even said it feels like "sleeping on air" and "like floating in every sleeping position." Another described it as "springy" and said it "conforms to my body while still being supported." The main downside with this one is that some told us the delivery period was longer than expected.

Firmness levelMedium firm
Height9.25"
Foam layers2, plus an elastic top layer
Available sizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Trial period100 days
Price range$799 to $1,998
6
Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress

Tuft & Needle Original Mattress

On Sale
Original Mattress
Now 20% Off
Credit: Tuft & Needle
Pros
  • Firmer than other foam beds
  • Good value under $1,000
  • Supportive with motion isolation
Cons
  • Users noted less edge support

Most memory foam mattresses are on the softer side because of their supreme cushioning, but this model is great if you prefer a firmer surface. It has a simple design with just two layers (whereas most others have three). The brand says their foam is designed to feel supportive and resilient, yet still contour to your body without feeling stiff. Our testers confirmed it felt firm.

This mattress also stands out for its under-$1,000 price tag along with the fast and free shipping available on Amazon, making it more accessible and convenient than other mattresses. In fact, it's ready to ship and can arrive at your home within days.

Tester notes: Overall, it earned high scores across the board — from the ease of ordering and set up to the comfort and support. Even better, several users specifically commented on liking the firmness and said it had excellent motion isolation so they couldn't feel their sleeping partners move. One owner of the Original model that has had it for five years told us, "My Tuft & Needle mattress is so much more comfortable than any mattress I've ever had in the past. My husband and I both experience much less back pain." The one complaint we consistently received was that it lacked edge support, so it may sag when you sit on the side of the bed.

Firmness levelFirm
Height10"
Foam layers2
Available sizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Trial period100 days
Price range$745 to $1,395
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
7
Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress

Amerisleep AS5

AS5
Credit: Amerisleep
Pros
  • Plush yet supportive
  • Taller with more layers than other models
  • Users describe it as "cloud-like"
Cons
  • Heavy, so set up may be more difficult

While a soft mattress is not for everyone, this one is perfect for those that prefer plush foam without sacrificing support. It's made up of four layers (which is more than other foam models), including two softer layers on top, a transition layer with zoned support and a durable base. This also makes the mattress taller than most memory foam options at 14 inches high. Keep in mind that this will make it heavier and more difficult to set up.

There's also a hybrid version of this model that uses coils as the base, but still has the same soft layers on top. Just note that although the brand makes a variety of eco-friendly mentions with this mattress, we couldn't validate those claims in our review.

Tester notes: In general, Amerisleep owners on our panel found their mattress to feel softer than other beds they had previously owned, and the AS5 is the brand's softest model available. A recent tester of the AS5 Hybrid said, "It is truly the softest bed I've ever slept on. If you are looking for a cloud-like, super soft mattress, this is absolutely the mattress!" Another one that's had it for over a year said, "Its softness reigns supreme compared to any other mattress I've ever slept on. Sometimes I find myself snoozing my alarm because I get such a comfortable sleep from it."

Firmness levelUltra soft
Height14"
Foam layers4
Available sizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Trial period100 days
Price range$1,649 to $3,398
8
Best Reversible Memory Foam Mattress

Layla Memory Foam Mattress

On Sale
Memory Foam Mattress
Now 14% Off
Credit: Layla
Pros
  • Two-sided with soft and firm options
  • Cover is machine washable
  • Under $1,000
Cons
  • Testers didn't notice the claimed cooling effect

If you can't decide between soft and firm, Layla's dual-sided mattress offers both. On one side is a soft layer (which Layla describes as a 4 out of 10 on the firmness scale), while the other side is firm (7 out of 10). It's ideal if your needs change or if you simply have trouble guessing the right level for your sleep position and body type.

Besides its versatility, this mattress also has a removable and machine-washable outer cover so its easier to keep your bed clean. It also contains gel and copper particles that the brand says helps the mattress feel cool, but the cooling effect wasn't noticeable to users in our tests.

Tester notes: The flippable design with two firmness options was by far the best feature according to users on our panel. One told us, "It's much more comfortable than my last mattress," and commented that because of the two sides, "we were able to try and see which worked for us." While it earned overall good scores from our reviewers, take note that a few said they felt sore after sleeping on it. Others found that the soft side wasn't as plush as they expected, and a few others reported that it retained heat.

Firmness levelsSoft and firm
Height10"
Foam layers4
Available sizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Trial period120 days
Price range$599 to $1,099
9
Best Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress

Bear Elite Hybrid

Elite Hybrid
Now 40% Off
Credit: Bear
Pros
  • A tester favorite for comfort and sleep quality
  • Three firmness levels
  • Ergonomic support from zoned sections
Cons
  • Not entirely memory foam

Though it's not entirely made of memory foam, this hybrid mattress combines layers of foam over coils so you get pressure relief along with resiliency and support. The foam has five zoned sections with varying firmness levels to help keep your spine aligned. Plus, it offers good edge support, which is sometimes an issue with foam models.

It also stands out for offering three firmness levels since most foam options only offer one choice. But keep in mind: Although the brand makes some claims about having "eco-friendly materials" and using natural minerals that promote recovery, we couldn't validate these claims in our evaluations.

Tester notes: This model is a tester favorite, thanks to its incredible comfort. In fact, users gave it perfect scores across the board with one telling us, "This is undoubtedly the best mattress we have ever owned. We have traveled all over and have never had the sleep experience we now have every night." They swear it leads to more interrupted sleep and one recent tester even said she slept through her alarm after her first night using it.

Firmness levelsLuxury Plush, Luxury Firm, Extra Firm
Height14"
Foam layers2 with a quilted top and coil base
Available sizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Trial period120 days
Price range$1,721 to $3,565
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

How we test memory foam mattresses

best mattress casper original mattress testing at good housekeeping

The scientists and engineers in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab start by researching and vetting the mattress brands and their models. We review the materials, features and performance claims, then check for common complaints and any outstanding lawsuits against the brands.

Next, we review the mattresses in person to get hands-on experience with the models. We consider everything from ease of ordering and set up to comfort and support to overall sleep quality. We check in with testers after a few weeks of use, then continue to follow up with them over a year and beyond to see how the beds hold up over time. We also survey our consumer tester panel to get insights into the mattresses they already own. In the past few years, we've surveyed more than 10,000 mattress owners and reviewed answers to over 170,000 questions, which have helped us determine which mattresses are worth recommending. Here's what we consider as we evaluate the memory foam mattresses:

  • Ease of ordering and delivery: We check whether the brand's website was easy to use and whether the mattress arrived quickly or faced delays. We also review whether any problems came up during this process and how the company helped resolve these potential issues.
  • Set up: Users share whether the process went smoothly and whether the mattress took proper shape quickly. We account for both DIY mattress set up and delivery with full-service set up included.
  • Firmness: We ask our testers to give the mattress a firmness rating. Sometimes the brand claims a certain firmness level, but it doesn't always match what users feel in real life.
  • Edge support: Our testers also sit on the edge of the bed to see whether it holds up to their weight or sinks under pressure.
  • Comfort and support: Our reviewers give these qualities a rating and also weigh in on whether they liked sleeping on the mattress both initially and after extended use.
  • Temperature: Users indicate whether they stayed at a comfortable body temperature while sleeping on the mattress. We review this regardless of whether the model promotes cooling claims.
  • Overall satisfaction: We ask whether the mattress affected sleep quality (for better or for worse!) and whether testers woke up feeling any soreness. Testers also give an overall satisfaction rating, and have the opportunity to compare the mattress to other ones they've slept on in an open-ended question.
  • Final feedback: Testers share what they liked and disliked as well as any additional comments they can provide about their experience using the mattress.

How to shop for memory foam mattresses

preview for GH Buying Guide: Mattresses

Choosing your mattress is a personal decision and there isn't one model that'll work for everyone. Here's what to keep in mind as you shop:

✔️ Firmness: Most memory foam mattresses provide a medium level of firmness and good pressure relief, making them best suited for side and back sleepers. If you're a stomach sleeper, opt for a firmer mattress so that you don't sink in too much and jeopardize your spine alignment.

✔️ Height: A good memory foam mattress should be at least 10 inches tall. A taller mattress typically has more layers inside, making it feel more plush, whereas shorter ones with fewer layers are more firm. Note that memory foam mattresses tend to be shorter than hybrids because they lack the layer of coils inside.

✔️ Price: Our top-tested memory foam mattresses tend to fall in the $1,000 to $1,500 price range for a queen size. You can still find some good options under $500 and there are models closer to $2,000 that are worth the splurge, but this range tends to be the sweet spot.

✔️ Return policy: It's common to order your memory foam mattress online, so most retailers will let you return the bed for any reason to ensure it's a low-risk purchase. Look for a trial period of at least 100 days and make sure to read the fine print — e.g., how the return is handled and whether there are any pick-up fees — before you buy. Also note that a return policy is different than a warranty. Warranties only cover manufacturer defects, which can be difficult to prove, so it's better to focus on the return policy when you shop.

✔️ Certifications: Memory foam is made of polyurethane (a synthetic material), so there is no such thing as natural or eco-friendly memory foam, despite marketing claims from some mattress brands. Still, there are certifications to check for that ensure there are low VOCs (volatile organic compounds), making them safer from a standpoint of indoor air quality.

  • CertiPUR-US: Most memory foam mattresses have this certification, which means the foam is made without certain chemicals that are known to be harmful and have low VOC emissions.
  • GREENGUARD Gold: Unlike CertiPUR-US, this certification covers more than just foam, though it still focuses on low VOCs for indoor air quality.
  • OEKO-TEX: The Standard 100 by Oeko-TEX focuses on textiles rather than the foam. In terms of mattresses, it shows whether the fabric (like the outer cover) has been tested to ensure there are no unsafe levels of known harmful chemicals.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of memory foam mattresses?

best memory foam mattress memory foam sample at good housekeeping

Memory foam is popular for mattresses for good reason, but there are pros and cons to keep in mind when deciding if it's the right material for you.

✔️ Advantages of memory foam mattresses:

  • Pressure relief: The material slowly adapts to the shape of your body, taking weight off of your shoulders and hips. This helps create proper alignment and cradling comfort, especially for side sleepers and people with back pain.
  • Motion isolation: Ideal for couples, memory foam prevents you from feeling your sleeping partner move around at night. Unlike innerspring mattresses that easily transfer motion, memory foam absorbs the movement so you're less likely to feel disturbances.
  • Affordability: Because it's easier to produce, memory foam tends to cost less than other mattress types, like hybrids and luxury innersprings. It's great for first-time homeowners and apartment renters.
  • Quick shipping and easy set up: Memory foam can be compressed into a box, so most brands offer fast and free delivery to your doorstep. You'll likely need to set it up yourself (or hire someone to do it for you), but our testers found this process to be more convenient than waiting for a delivery service. Plus, memory foam mattresses weigh less than innersprings and hybrids.

✔️ Disadvantages of memory foam mattresses:

  • Temperature: Trapping in heat more easily than other materials, memory foam is less breathable and tends to sleep hot. In addition, many brands claim to have cooling materials (like gel or metal particles), but these don't always produce noticeable effects in our consumer tests.
  • Durability: Mattresses made of memory foam may not last as long as models with steel coils and innersprings, as they tend to sag over time. To help the foam last longer, make sure there's a flat surface or slats that are close together underneath the mattress. Avoid using a box spring with a memory foam mattress; the surface isn't flat enough and may cause the mattress to sag.
  • Synthetic material: Memory foam is petroleum-based, despite some brands claiming they use eco-friendly memory foam. (If you prefer a more sustainable foam, opt for a latex mattress instead.) Memory foam may also produce off-gassing, which is when there's an odor released after you first unbox it. Plan to air your mattress out before use, and opt for one that is certified to have low-VOC emissions.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Why you can trust Good Housekeeping

linebreak

Lexie Sachs is the executive director of the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees bedding testing, including mattresses. She has been actively researching, analyzing and reporting on mattresses since online bed-shopping hit the mainstream in 2014, and has extensively reviewed dozens of models by meeting with brands, surveying real mattress owners and conducting consumer tests. Lexie has also personally tried most of the models featured in this article.

Headshot of Lexie Sachs
Lexie Sachs
Executive Director, Strategy & Operations

Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Product Reviews

best robot vacuums, according to cleaning experts

The Best Robot Vacuums

a variety of nonstick pots and pans

The Best Nonstick Cookware

10 best vacuums on amazon, according to cleaning experts

The Best Vacuums on Amazon

waterpiks being tested

The Best Water Flossers of 2024

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below