Live and Sleep Review

Continued from above...

What do you need to know about this type of mattress? First, there's a distinction between all-foam and hybrid construction. All-foam is just like it sounds: every layer consists of some kind of foam that either contours to your body or supports the mattress as a whole. These layers can vary quite widely from one brand to another, and even within the same manufacturer - offering different mattress heights, levels of support, and firmness at the edge of the bed itself. Hybrid mattresses are a combination of foam and coils or springs. These are usually designed to give you more support and cooling, and give you a sleep experience that more closely approximates what you're used to while offering the softer, more supportive feel of foam.

One innovation we've seen recently is flippable foam mattresses. If you're not sure whether you prefer yours to be on the firm or soft side, no worries: several brands give you a two-in-one experience. But, even if you don't purchase a two-sided foam mattress, you're not stuck with whatever you buy.

Why? Every brand in our review gives you at least 30 nights to try it out and see how it feels - because it can take at least that long for your body to adjust to a new mattress. Most foam mattresses give you even longer than that, from 100 days to a full year, and you can return it if you wind up thinking something else would be a better fit. Just watch for the details on that trial period: some companies charge a return fee, while others give you a full refund.

It's incredible how many foam mattress companies have hit the market over the last few years. Which one should you pick? You might feel overwhelmed even trying to start shopping around. We've evaluated some of today's most popular brands, and while you browse, here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Mattress Size. Believe it or not, not every brand carries every size of mattress. If you're shopping for a Queen or King, you can likely choose any foam mattress company that catches your attention. But, if you need a standard Twin, some brands only carry the Twin XL length in the higher-end models. And, if you need a split King or Cal King, you may not find it everywhere you shop. Before you get too far down the track, make sure that the store has your required size in stock.
• Desired Benefits. What are you most hoping for in your foam mattress? Are you sleeping warmer than ever and would love something that cools you down? Do you need cradling support for aching joints? Are you allergy-prone and need a mattress that's organic (yes, those do exist!)? Make your "must have” list to help you narrow down the options.
• Budget. What are you willing to spend for your mattress? You could find a great model for under $1,000 or a super-luxe one for over $15,000. You don't necessarily have to overspend to get a good night's sleep, and knowing what your budget is in advance can help you resist some of the "nice but not necessary” options out there.
• Trial and Returns. How long can you sleep on the mattress before making your final decision? What's the process for making a return? Some companies take care of it for you, while others ask you to donate it to a nonprofit and provide a receipt before issuing your refund. Will you have to pay a return fee?
• Customer Reviews. This could be the key factor in making your final choice on your foam mattress. What do people who sleep like you (size, support level, injuries/conditions, sleep habits) say about the one you're considering? And what do shoppers say about the overall customer service experience with the brand?

TopConsumerReviews.com has evaluated and ranked today's most popular retailers of foam mattresses. We're sure this information will help you pick the right mattress to get your best night's sleep ever!