Best Foam Mattresses
A proper mattress is important for the quality of our sleep and can bring many benefits to our life. Mood and health are both influenced by sleep, and it’s important to get well rested and maintain proper posture. One of the best choices out there that combine comfort and proper support into a single design are foam mattresses. Made from special foam materials and based on a layered design, foam mattresses are quite different from the standard coiled springs design.
Perfect for back support and lightweight sleepers, these mattresses will conform to your natural form, and that way you are guaranteed a night of sound sleep. But before you review the offers available on the market, you need to know a few crucial things that can define the quality of a foam mattress.
| Rank | Product | Highlights |
| #1 | 
Tuft & Needle Original Mattress |
|
| #2 | 
AC Pacific 6” Foam Mattress |
|
| #3 | 
LUCID Gel Memory Foam Mattress |
|
| #4 | 
Zinus 8” Ultima Memory Foam Mattress |
|
| #5 | 
Classic Brands Ventilated Gel Foam Mattress |
|
How to Choose a Foam Mattress For You?
While foam mattresses all share the fact that they are constructed with the same type of material, there is still a fair amount of flexibility you have in your choice. Brands offer ample variation in design in order to cater to your personal needs. That way you can really fine-tune your purchase and ensure the best quality of sleep you had in years. Once you pick out a great bed frame, you can focus on the right mattress for you. Here are the basic aspects you need to look out for.
Dimensions
The first checkbox to mark on your list is the correct size. Foam mattresses come in a variety of standard sizes that correspond to the basic bed frame measures – from twin to queen and king-sized. But even so, you want to check the dimensions of the mattress slot in your bed frame and the actual dimensions of the mattress – sometimes even an inch or two of free space at the sides can cause wobbling, sliding, and wear and tear. A snug fit is always the best outcome, so keep those sizes in mind.
Thickness
Most foam mattresses have a layered design and can come in a variety of thicknesses as a result of it. Thickness can directly influence the comfort and durability factor so it is essential to pick the one that will meet your needs. Combined with the firmness and the density, the thickness is what gives your body the support it needs- too thin and it will sag and feel uncomfortable, and too thick and you’ll feel like you’re sleeping on a rock. If you had some back issues or aches in the past, memory foam will work the best, but in combination with high-density foam to ensure you still get good support.
Firmness
Firmness and density are equally as important as the thickness of the foam mattress. The usual choice of density varies between 2 and 5 lbs per cubic feet- on average. Plus size sleepers can benefit from firmer, dense foam mattresses that can provide stability and will equally distribute their weight, unlike soft memory foam that would sink and sag. On the other hand, lighter persons and those who sleep on their side should consider a softer mattress that can better conform to the curvature of their spine, relieving the pressure on the hips and the shoulders.
Memory Foam
Memory foam is prized for its body-contouring effect and ergonomic properties- not to mention the comfort it offers. Of course, foam mattresses will incorporate only a layer of memory foam since a mattress made only from pure memory foam wouldn’t actually be comfortable or good for your spine. Even so, these layers can significantly vary in size: they can be several inches thick and provide fantastic support for the spine and the lumbar region, or just a thin top layer memory foam, which really doesn’t make a huge difference. If your health and the quality of sleep are a priority, don’t hesitate to invest a little more to get a higher quality mattress.
What are the Differences Between Foam and Spring Mattresses?
Spring mattresses have long been around as the staple offer on the market, but this traditional design didn’t see much change over the many long years it has been around. On the other hand, memory foam mattresses became all the rage ever since NASA-designed material became available in the late 1980s and there have been various designs to choose from. The two designs might be very different but they both have their own pros and cons.
- Air Circulation and temperature
One of the biggest differences between these two types of mattresses is temperature regulation. The design of the spring mattress and the empty space between the coils all allow for ample air circulation. This helps with keeping the temperature down and also to mitigate smells that can accumulate over time. On the other hand, foam mattresses can trap heat due to its dense layered design. In the summer, rising temperatures can thus become an issue. Note that several brands offer improved foam mattress design that tries to combat the temperature issue with gel-infused cooling foam or perforated breathable foam.
- Bounce
Traditional spring mattresses are known for their bounciness. The innerspring design – especially double-layered – is thus not the best when it comes to shock-absorbing and natural position, especially if you want them to conform to your posture. Compared to this, foam mattresses easily return to their natural position, conform to your body, and are much better with shock-absorbing. However, as a result, they will not respond to the motion in the same way as innerspring mattresses.
- Durability
Longevity and durability are important factors, especially when you have in mind that a good mattress can last you up to a decade- it’s an investment that shouldn’t be taken lightly. While spring mattresses can be robust, their durability is generally considered worse than what the foam mattresses boast. Heavy use tends to deteriorate the springs after a while, and the shape can lose its original condition. A foam mattress can be much more long-lasting, and keep its original shape even after years of use. And of course, there is no risk of stray coils poking you and random spots in your mattress to sag and drop – a problem that can often occur with innerspring mattresses.
Weight Displacement and Movement
If you are a solo sleeper, weight displacement doesn’t play that big of a role. But for pairs sharing a mattress, it really becomes crucial. Innerspring mattresses are good at offering support, but not with mitigating movements. If your partner is a restless sleeper, turning and tossing a lot, you are bound to feel it as well. On a foam mattress though, these movements tend to be isolated with each sleeper, and the movement is not carried throughout.
Best Foam Mattresses
Tuft & Needle Original Mattress
Editor’s choice
Is budget not an issue? If you want to make a great, long-lasting investment to boost your quality of sleep, treat yourself to this high-quality foam mattress. Tuft & Needle offers a foam mattress full of unique features, starting with its own T&F adaptive foam that feels exceptionally comfy and boasts pressure-relieving properties. Its open-cell structure perfectly adapts to your body and it is great for mitigating heat. This foam contains graphite beads that wick heat away, as well as the addition of cooling gel. And all of that is covered with the outer layer of breathable plush fabric.
This clever combination of different foam types ensures you’re getting to reap all of the benefits foam mattresses have to offer with a single purchase. And with a hassle-free 10-year warranty and a 100-night sleep trial, you can rest assured that you are getting all the value for your investment.
Who Should Buy This Product?
If you are looking for a high-quality foam mattress, this fantastic design will definitely exceed your expectations. Durable, comfortable, and great for all sleeping positions, this is an investment for years to come.
Pros
- CertiPUR and Greenguard Gold certified
- Great for wicking away heat
- 100-night sleep trial
- Great for pressure relief
Cons
- Can be too firm
- Not good for plus-sized sleepers
Specs for Comparison:
Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Material: T&N Adaptive Foam
Thickness: 10”
Firmness: Medium-Firm
AC Pacific 6” Foam Mattress
Best waterproof foam mattress
AC Pacific offers a basic, simple foam mattress design, but takes it one step further by making it waterproof. The mattress offers great comfort with its 6 inches of high-density foam which perfectly combines support and firmness. But what makes this particular mattress special is the fully waterproof quilted breathable fabric that covers the foam mattress. No more moisture absorption for those minimal spills and sweating! Although it is offered in only 3 sizes, this mattress is still one of the better choices if you are looking for a straightforward and affordable solution. Lightweight and firm, this mattress is great for back and stomach sleepers especially!
Who Should Buy This Product?
Is moisture an issue for you? You don’t have to give up on memory foam mattresses just because you sweat at night or have a kid that has “accidents” from time to time. Sleep soundly with this 6-inch foam mattress and rest assured that liquids won’t get absorbed due to the waterproof covering.
Pros
- High density for good support
- Waterproof quilted outer fabric
- Affordable
Cons
- Takes a long time to fully expand
- Only 3 sizes
Specs for Comparison:
Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full
Material: High Density Foam
Thickness: 6”
Firmness: Medium firm
LUCID Gel Memory Foam Mattress
Best foam mattress for back pain
Lucid is one of the leading brands when it comes to mattresses of all kinds, so it doesn’t surprise that their take on foam mattresses is one of the best multi-layered designs on the market. The first thing to notice is the thickness – 12 inches of several foam layers for absolute comfort and ergonomic properties. At the very base is the 6.5 inches thick bamboo charcoal infused foam that adds to the overall support and helps with temperature regulation. A 2 inches thick layer of transition foam makes up the middle, with 2 inches more of gel-infused memory foam above it. This adds to the support and gives you an ergonomic, soft layer close to your back. On top is 1.5 inches thick layer of latex foam which adds some bounce into the mattress and equally disperses your weight. As a result, this mattress is a great choice for back pain: it will relieve pressure points, ensure proper spine alignment, and give you optimal support.
To boot, this mattress also comes with a CertiPUR US certification and 10 years of warranty- a clear sign of its quality.
Who Should Buy This Product?
Good support, temperature regulation, and the addition of memory foam on top for a cradling feel will make this mattress suitable for most sleepers, but back pain sufferers will get the most out of it. The multi-layered design
Pros
- Multi-layered design for optimal support
- Memory foam relieves pressure points
- 10 years of warranty
- CertiPUR US certified
- Affordable
Cons
- Can lose support over time
- Not for plus size sleepers
Specs for Comparison:
Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Material: Multi-Layer Foam
Thickness: 12”
Firmness: Plush
Zinus 8” Ultima Memory Foam Mattress
Customer’s choice
At 8 inches of thickness, this mattress is right in the middle of the range, but it still offers ample support and manages to pull off a multi-layer design. At the very bottom is a layer of 4 inches thick high-density support foam which provides all the necessary stability. On top of it is a 2-inches thick layer of perforated airflow enhancing comfort foam, and that is topped off with 2 inches of memory foam to give you that cradling feel that makes these mattresses so well-loved. The memory foam is also green tea infused which helps mitigate smells and absorbs moisture efficiently. The whole mattress is covered with a soft poly jacquard fabric cover. With plenty of options to choose from and a mid-range price, this foam mattress is one of the better choices out there.
Who Should Buy This Product?
Zinus offers a mattress that has perfectly balanced design elements – making it a fantastic choice for most sleepers, and all that at an affordable price. The multi-layered design brings many benefits to the table, starting from comfort and support all the way to its odor-removing properties.
Pros
- Simple but efficient design
- Green tea infused memory foam layer
- CertiPUR US certified
- Most sizes support up to 500 lbs
Cons
- Loses firmness after prolonged use
- Contains fiberglass in cover
Specs for Comparison:
Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King
Material: Multi-Layer Foam
Thickness: 8”, 10”, 12”
Firmness: Medium
Classic Brands Ventilated Gel Foam Mattress
Budget buy
A foam mattress can rely on basic design elements and still offer ample support and great comfort -and all that at a budget-friendly price- is not easy to find. However, Classic Brands managed to pull it off with this particular design that comes in several variations and different thickness levels. At its base is a thick layer of high-density supportive foam that ensures all the stability your back needs. On top of that is a layer of cool gel-infused memory foam which boasts great breathability and temperature regulation. It efficiently draws away the heat from your body, making it great for summer sleeping. This is a basic, trusted design that offers everything you need in a decent mattress while still remaining affordable with the added benefit of certifications of quality.
Who Should Buy This Product?
Classic Brands gives you a budget choice with all the most important features. With the cooling gel foam, your sleep during the hot summer months will be comfortable and cool. And that can make all the difference.
Pros
- Great support
- Temperature regulating foam layer
- Plenty of options to choose from
- Affordable
Cons
- Only two layers of foam
Specs for Comparison:
Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Short Queen, Queen, King, California King
Material: T&N Adaptive Foam
Thickness: 8”, 9”
Firmness: Medium-Firm
Bottom Line
Foam mattresses are a fantastic choice for everyone looking to get a better quality of sleep and finally get rid of chronic back pain and tension in the body. The body-conforming properties of foam make it uniquely suited for all sleeping positions and able to relieve pressure points, so most sleepers find foam mattresses a dream to sleep on. Of course, there are many different types of foam out there, so it is important to carefully consider all pros and cons of foam mattresses to find the perfect match for your own needs.