Last Updated On December 27th, 2021
A memory foam mattress is a great solution if you struggle to get cosy on a spring mattress. Whether it’s because of back pain, joint pain, or simple lumps and bumps – getting the best memory foam mattress can help solve these problems.
In contrast to spring mattresses, memory foam mattresses are made up of high-density foam layers which mould seamlessly to your body as you sleep. Not only is this much more convenient for most people, but it also provides your body with the correct amount of support throughout the night – thus limiting any back and joint pain.
Choosing a memory foam mattress is a big decision. After all, the best memory mattress will influence your sleep and comfort for many years to come, so it’s critical you make the correct choice.
In this article, we’re going to make choosing easy for you. We’ve compiled a list of the 9 top memory foam mattress reviews and broken down the benefits and drawbacks of each – so you can pick the perfect mattress for your needs!
Our Favourite Memory Foam Mattresses Compared
Best Memory Foam Mattress Reviews – Top 9 Picks
1. Inofia Elegant (Editor’s Choice)
The Inofia Elegant memory foam mattress is designed to support all sleeping positions, making it an excellent choice for combination sleepers.
Features
This medium-firm hybrid memory foam mattress offers a depth of 27 cm. It comes with an ultra-soft knitted cover, four layers of memory and bouncy foams, and a layer of support coils. The individually wrapped steel coils add a significant amount of support and feature a nine-zone system to provide targeted support to the areas of your body that need it most.
To improve motion isolation, the Inofia contains a layer of wave memory foam designed to absorb more pressure and shock than the other layers of transition foam. To top it off, side mesh panels increase the mattress’s overall breathability and help release body heat from the interior layers.
Each Inofia Elegant hybrid mattress comes with a 100 night trial period so you can make sure it suits your sleeping preferences. It also comes with a ten-year warranty backing craftsmanship and construction materials.
Even with advanced breathability, this mattress may retain some minimal heat. Additionally, it could be too firm for some sleepers, and you may be able to feel the springs a bit through the top layers.
- Excellent breathability
- Wave memory foam
- Individually pocketed coils
- Medium-firm for all sleep positions
- 100-night trial with a 10-year warranty
- May have thinner top foam layers
- Could be too firm for some sleepers
- May retain some minimal heat
2. Lucid 20cm Medium (Best Motion Isolation)
If you are a side sleeper looking for a softer-feeling mattress to reduce hip and shoulder pain, the Lucid gel memory foam mattress could be just what you need. This mattress also has advanced heat wicking and cooling capability, making it suitable for anyone who tends to sleep hot.
Features
The Lucid memory foam mattress has a soft yet supportive feel. It stands 20cm tall and contains three layers: bamboo and charcoal-infused base foam, a layer of transition foam, and a top layer of gel-infused memory foam. Altogether, these layers offer superior motion isolation.
The bamboo and charcoal in the base help to reduce odour buildup while also actively wicking away any heat and moisture from the mattress’s core. Thanks to the breathable cover and the gel infusion found in the top layer of this mattress, it can minimise the overall temperature on the surface and prevent heat from building up while you sleep.
This Lucid mattress is also compatible for use with an adjustable base, platform, or traditional box spring style frame. Its lower profile height also makes this a good option for those who have reduced mobility.
Regretfully, this is not the best option if you are looking for advanced edge support or are a stomach or back sleeper due to the softer overall feel.
- Bamboo and charcoal-infused base
- Gel-infused top layer
- Plush feel
- Good for side sleepers
- Ventilated design for breathability
- May have minimal edge support
- May not be ideal for back sleepers
3. Silentnight 7 Zone King (Best Hypoallergenic)
If you’re searching for the best memory foam mattress, then take a look at this medium-firm bed from Silentnight. This memory foam mattress is delivered rolled for extra convenience. And, as it’s an Allergy UK approved bed, which makes it an excellent choice if you suffer from allergies.
Features
Like most foam mattresses, expect some off-gassing and a chemical smell that can linger for several days, However, thanks to its seven-zone support system and 20cm depth, this model provides a good degree of support. It helps to align your spine for an improved night’s sleep.
The deep layer of memory foam makes this mattress extra comfortable. Plus, the breathable, removable cover adds an extra layer of softness and allows for easy maintenance. However, like most foam mattresses, this model does tend to sleep hot. Therefore, you may find it uncomfortable if you prefer a cooler temperature at night.
While this model is sold as a standard king, be aware that the actual dimensions can vary by several centimetres. Hence, it is less suitable for closed frame types where your mattress size needs to be spot on.
Overall, though, if you need a mattress with good support, this model makes a fine choice. Coming from a reputable manufacturer, it is complete with a three-year guarantee.
- Seven zone support system keeps the spine properly aligned
- 20cm depth
- Allergy UK approved
- Comfortable memory foam layer cushions pressure points
- Three-year guarantee for peace of mind
- Tends to sleep hot
- Off-gassing smell lingers for several days
- Dimensions can vary considerably
4. Molblly Medium Firm (Best Value)
The Molblly gel memory foam mattress is designed to accommodate all sleeping positions, making this an excellent choice for a spare bedroom or anyone who changes positions frequently throughout the night. It also provides superb pressure relief.
Features
The Molblly mattress features a 20cm loft and a medium level of firmness. It is constructed with a breathable cover, a gel memory foam layer, and a dense base foam layer. While the design of this mattress is somewhat simple, the three layers combined provide accurate pressure relief. Plus, it offers advanced motion isolation to reduce surface disturbances, which another person or a pet can often cause.
We love that the Molblly gel memory foam mattress design also includes a convenient machine washable cover. The zip-off cover helps to keep your bed clean and sanitary for years to come, with minimal effort. Just make sure to let the cover air dry to avoid accidentally shrinking the dense weave.
Unfortunately, this mattress may need to be aired out for a day or two upon arrival due to an initial odour. In addition, it has a thinner design that is not ideal for heavier individuals or couples and lacks significant edge support.
- Machine washable removable cover
- Good motion isolation and pressure relief
- 10-year warranty
- Gel-infused memory foam
- Medium firmness for all sleep positions
- May not be ideal for heavier individuals or couples
- May need to air out the initial odour
- May offer less edge support
5. Casper Original EU Double (Best Medium Soft)
The Casper Original foam mattress provides a good level of support. It has been specifically engineered to isolate you from your partner’s motion for a better night’s sleep. Thanks to its four layers of foam, it provides both support and comfort. Breathability is likewise achieved because of its open-cell top layer, allowing you to sleep cool.
Features
The high-density memory foam layer absorbs your contours to cushion your pressure points. For enhanced spine alignment and a corrective sleeping posture, the contour cut base layer adds durability, supporting your hips while allowing your shoulders to sink in.
Like most foam mattresses, breathability is not comparable to a traditional sprung mattress. However, the Casper double-size mattress does come with a breathable, machine washable cover. Even so, if you tend to sleep hot, you may be better off avoiding foam mattresses altogether.
Furthermore, Casper has made some progress in foam mattress design, providing enhanced motion isolation. Hence, you won’t have to worry about waking your partner if you need to get up at night. However, the edge support is fairly poor. So, if you often find yourself sleeping at the boundaries of the bed, you may feel a little unsteady on this mattress.
Although this mattress takes a few days to get used to and will require some time for off-gassing, it is a very popular choice, giving many users an excellent night’s sleep. As an added bonus, the Casper comes with an outstanding 10-year warranty.
- Contoured-cut base layer for zoned support
- High-density memory foam layer
- Motion isolation
- Breathable, machine washable cover
- 10-year warranty
- Takes a few days for the smell to dissipate
- No edge support
- Not very breathable
6. Studio by Silentnight (Best Soft Option)
The Studio Mattress by Silentnight comes with a choice of firmness and it is our top pick for a soft-rated comfort level. With its unique comfort gel layer, this soft memory foam mattress comes with in-built elastic Active Response technology, to help you sleep well and wake refreshed.
Features
Thanks to its combined Active Response gel, memory foam and high-density core foam, the Studio provides excellent support and relief of pressure points. The high-density core foam is tailored to suit your firmness choice and provides resilient support, night after night. However, the bed edges themselves aren’t supportive enough and you could find yourself on the floor if you get too close to the edge.
The cover is approved by Allergy UK for its hypoallergenic qualities, making it an excellent choice if you or your partner suffer from allergies. Its soft-to-the-touch knit finish adds an extra element of luxury and breathability. One thing that’s missing is an anti-slip treatment. As this is a lightweight mattress, it can move about on the base when you’re making your bed.
Handmade in UK factories, the company’s many decades of expertise have gone into creating this new budget range. If you are looking for a soft mattress for sink-in comfort with enhanced levels of support, then this would make a good choice. There is also a 60-night comfort guarantee, which allows you to exchange the memory mattress for a softer or harder rated one if you make the wrong choice. It also comes with a five-year guarantee.
- Resilient high-density core for durability and supports tailored body contour
- Has a supportive memory layer
- Active Response technology gives excellent support
- The anti-allergy cover is approved by Allergy UK
- Five-year guarantee
- Available in Single to Super King sizes
- Poor supportive edge
- No handles
- No anti-slip treatment
7. The Casper (Best Hybrid)
The Casper is a versatile, supportive mattress thanks to its four layers of premium foam. The open-cell top layer provides an adequate bounce. However, it’s not as cooling as suggested as it tends to sleep hot. So, if you feel the heat easily, you may wish to look at another of our recommendations.
Features
A layer of high-density memory foam supports pressure points. Although this mattress gives better support to back sleepers than side sleepers and stomach sleepers, it’s well worth trying out. The company lets you try their product for 100 nights with free returns, so it may well be perfect to use and see if it fits your needs.
The contour cut base offers zoned support for better alignment and increased durability. It has an all-important transition layer allowing for even weight distribution which is essential for couples who wake each other up with their tossing and turning. It features a luxurious cover that zips open and pulls off. It can be machine washed which helps you keep your memory mattress in prime condition.
You may want to wash it after airing out for a period of time, as like many other memory foam mattresses, the Casper has quite a strong chemical smell when first unboxed.
- Four layers of premium foam – 24cm depth
- Easy-clean zipped cover that is machine washable
- Zoned support for greater alignment
- High-density memory layer that supports pressure points
- Can be tried for 100 nights and has a 10-year warranty
- Returns to its shape
- Has a lingering chemical smell takes some time to disappear
- Less comfortable for side or front sleepers
- Sleeps rather warm
8. Ghostbed (Best for Heavy People)
If you weigh more than the average, then it’s difficult to find a memory foam mattress that will keep its shape. Unlike many other memory foam mattresses, the Ghostbed has been designed with a maximum weight capacity of up to 53 stones. This bed is also best for couples who may struggle to find a foam mattress suitable for their combined weight.
Features
With a medium to a firmer feel, it is suitable for a range of sleeping positions thanks to its GhostFlex foam, gel memory foam and supportive core. These different layers combine to ensure correct spinal alignment and level of support. The GhostFlex foam also provides softness, while the gel memory foam helps to keep you cooler than a standard foam mattress. The high-density base portion provides enhanced supportive durability. However, remember that when it comes to the construction of this memory mattress, it offers little in the way of a supportive edge.
The GhostBed is delivered boxed and regains its shape over 24 hours. It will require airing. However, this is standard with most memory foam mattresses. Be aware before you order that the mattress is heavy and if you live alone, you may wish to seek help. Also, there are no handles on the mattress to help manoeuvre it into place. When turning or rotating, it helps to have an extra pair of hands for assistance. The mattress comes with a plush, zipped cover that is machine washable for greater hygiene. You are available to try it for 100 nights, as well as a 20-year limited warranty.
- Latex and gel memory foam mattress
- Up to 53 stone weight capacity
- Has a high-density base for ergonomic support
- Removable, machine-washable cover
- Can be tried for 100 nights and has a 20-year limited warranty
- Returns to its shape
- No handles
- No supportive edge
- Very heavy
9. Emma Original (Luxury Choice)
The popular, award-winning Emma Original Mattress is our favourite memory foam mattress. Suitable for sleepers of any position or body size, it combines supportive layers of cold foam, visco-elastic memory foam and pressure-relieving Airgocell material for unparalleled comfort and support.
Features
Unlike many other memory foam mattresses, the 3D mesh sides, breathable top cover and Airgocell foam prevent heat buildup for a cooler, more relaxing night’s sleep. Thanks to the Airgocell’s point elasticity, combined with the supportive HRX bottom portion, you can compress individual areas of the memory mattress, without affecting the rest of your sleeping area. This makes the Emma Original great for any sleeping position and allows for independent movement of couples, no more waking when your partner moves or gets up.
It is manufactured in the UK and undergoes rigorous testing. Additionally, it can be tried at home for 100 nights, so if you’re hesitating over which mattress to buy, this would be an excellent one to try out. Although it is a cosy, supportive mattress, it can be a little too hard if you prefer a soft comfort level. If that’s the case, have a look at some of our other top memory foam mattress recommendations.
Like most memory foam mattresses, this has a slight chemical smell when new. However, it soon fades. The only real quibble with this excellent mattress is the packaging. It is not really durable enough to stand up to the rigours of the delivery service.
- Visco-elastic portion for sleeping comfortably in any position
- Supportive HRX material for counter pressure
- Climate-regulating, elastic top cover with 3D mesh sides
- Breathable, pressure-relieving Airgocell material
- Available in Single to Super King sizes
- 100-night trial
- 10-year guarantee
- Returns to its shape
- Slight chemical smell
- Too hard for some people
- Packaging not robust enough for delivery
What Are the Different Types of Memory Foam?
When people buy a memory foam mattress, many assume that they are all the same. But this isn’t the case. Memory foam is available in three main types: traditional, gel and plant-based.
1. Choose the Traditional Memory Foam
This type of memory foam is the most common and is made from a petroleum-based material called viscoelastic. Initially designed in the 1960s by NASA, It has a ‘high-temperature sensitivity’ which means that it will be firmer to the touch when it’s cool and soften when warmed. This property enables it to mould to your body contours, returning to its original shape once you get up.
2. Opt for Gel Memory Foam
This type uses the same traditional materials but includes gel beads throughout the foam to help keep you cool during the night. The addition of gel means this type of memory foam changes its shape faster than standard memory foam when exposed to pressure.
3. Pick a Plant-Based Memory Foam
Plant-based memory foam is composed of a percentage of natural plant materials. This type of memory foam is a great choice for more environmentally conscious people and is cooler than other options. The foam doesn’t respond to temperature like other types of memory foam, but it responds quickly to changes in pressure.
The Benefits Of Memory Foam Mattresses
Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of using a memory foam mattress.
1. Motion Containment Across the Surface
One of the biggest benefits of memory foam is its ability to isolate motion across the mattress. If you or your partner frequently toss and turn during the night, this motion won’t reach the other person and disturb them like it would on a spring mattress.
2. Durability
The materials which make up memory foam mattresses have greater longevity than those used in spring mattresses. In fact, many people view high durability as one of their primary benefits.
3. Reduced Pressure on Heavy Areas of the Body
As memory foam responds to pressure much better than spring mattresses, this makes it the best choice to relieve strain on your joints during the night. Spring mattresses consist of numerous points of increased pressure, but memory foam spreads your body weight evenly and moulds to your figure. This results in a soft, cosy surface for heavy areas of the body and adequate support for lighter ones.
4. Joint and Pain Relief
Due to their pressure-reducing and supportive qualities, many people view memory foam mattresses as the perfect choice for those who suffer from back or other joint pain. The responsive material works with your body to maintain proper alignment and lessen the strain on sore joints.
How To Choose The Best Memory Foam Mattress
After reading all of our memory foam mattress reviews, you may be about to do away with your old spring bed or sofa bed. But before you rush and place an order on a new memory foam mattress, make sure you’ve considered the following features carefully.
1. Get the Right Density
When people decide which memory foam mattress to choose, one of the key considerations is the density. Density is usually measured in ‘pounds per square foot’, which tells you how much polymer is contained within the foam in comparison to the amount of air trapped within it. The denser the foam, the firmer the mattress will feel to the touch.
Usually, memory foam mattress density lies somewhere between 1-8 pounds per foot. Lower density foams are classified as those which have a rating of fewer than 3 pounds per foot. These feel much softer and are very relaxing, but they’re not particularly effective at supporting your joints and protecting against pressure points.
Memory foam at 5 pounds per foot and higher are firmer options, but these also retain heat and are not as breathable. Denser foams are generally more expensive, but they do have a longer lifespan.
2. Enough Warmth & Better Cooling
Most memory foam mattresses are warmer to sleep on than spring mattresses. This is caused by the thickness and density of the material used. Air circulation through the material is restricted, which results in the feeling of warmth associated with memory foam mattresses.
If you often feel hot at night or struggle to sleep during the summer months, you should choose a plant or gel-based memory foam mattress to limit discomfort. You can also opt for a mattress which includes special ‘cooling layers’ made from different materials to help increase ventilation and reduce the temperature during the night.
3. Get the Right Firmness
It is natural for people to assume that the density of the mattress will be solely responsible for the firmness, but that’s not strictly true. Many low-density mattresses will come complete with additional layers of thin memory foam, which contributes to a higher firmness. The same is true of higher density mattresses, these may have layers of thicker foam which lower the overall firmness.
Firmness describes how fast the mattress responds to changes in pressure, such as when you lie down onto it and then quickly get up. This is known as indentation force deflection or IFD. This measures the amount of force (in pounds) that is required to compress a 50 square inch area of the mattress by 25%. The lower the IFD score, the softer the memory foam.
IFD Rating of 10 – 12
The softest memory foam mattresses will have an IFD rating of 10 -12. This type of mattress will allow you to sink into them and hug your body. They’re cosy but not good for preventing or reducing back and joint pain.
IFD Rating of 12 – 14
Medium firmness rating is 12-14 IFD. This type of mattress is only slightly firmer than the softest options.
IFD Rating of 14 – 16
The best choice for most people will be an IFD rating of 14-16. This is ‘medium firm’ and sits in the ‘best of both worlds’ camp. These memory foam mattresses are still cosy but will provide enough support to keep your body correctly aligned and can reduce joint pain.
IFD Rating of 16 and Above
The hardest memory foam mattresses have a rating of 16 and above. These are rare and only recommended for very heavy people who have enough body weight to depress the mattress to a suitable level.
Conclusion
If you find it tough to get a good night’s sleep, we hope our memory foam mattress reviews have helped you choose the best memory foam mattress for your needs. All of the mattresses we’ve seen would make great options, but our overall favourite is the Inofia Elegant memory foam.
This high-quality mattress will suit you whether you like to sleep on your back, sides or belly. Its ultra-soft knitted cover and airy mesh help to keep you cool during the night. The high-density memory foam also works to isolate movement, which means you can sleep soundly alongside a restless partner.
What’s more, its unique 9-zone coil support system provides targeted pressure relief and comfort to certain parts of your body that need it most. It’s cosy yet firm enough that you can drift into a restful sleep and not be awoken by nagging back or joint pain in the early hours. The manufacturer also offers sleepers to try it out for 100 nights, so you can use it out without any obligation to buy it.
Overall, we were very impressed by the Inofia Elegant and consider it to be the best foam mattress 0n the UK market today!
Which memory foam mattresses are best for you? Let us know in the comments section.