Best Gel Memory Foam Mattress
By Sarah Anderson, Certified Sleep Science Coach 
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If you wake up sweaty or can’t fall asleep because you feel too warm, a gel memory foam mattress might be the perfect answer. Gel foam mattresses feature all the benefits of a traditional memory foam mattress, while also contouring to your body to wick away heat. The best gel memory foam mattresses combine coolness with pressure relief and full-body support. They may also feature some of the most notable features of top memory foam mattresses, such as targeted support and a durable structure. After thoroughly testing the Zoma Boost, we found that this gel memory foam mattress stands out for its advanced cooling technology and supportive structure. Our team of reviewers noted how the mattress adapts to different sleep positions, making it versatile for side, back, and combination sleepers. With its unique Reactiv™ foam layer, the Zoma Boost provides a balance between cushioning and firmness that promotes spine alignment and pressure relief. Additionally, the gel-infused memory foam does an excellent job of keeping body heat in check, which was a major plus during our testing sessions. We also appreciated the support base, which enhances durability and prevents sagging over time. Unmatched Cooling Features: Responsive Support for All Sleepers: The Zoma Boost is constructed with three main layers, each serving a specific function for enhanced comfort and support. The top layer is made of cooling gel memory foam, designed to dissipate heat and provide that initial soft feel when you lie down. Beneath that is the Reactiv™ foam, which adds a responsive layer that adjusts to your movements while promoting proper spinal alignment. The final layer consists of a durable support core that not only reinforces the entire mattress but also ensures long-lasting performance. The cover is crafted from a breathable, stretch-knit fabric that allows air to circulate freely. Lying on the Zoma Boost feels like sinking into a cloud while still receiving the support you need. The mattress contours beautifully to your body, providing targeted pressure relief, particularly around the hips and shoulders. Despite its plush top layer, our testers found that the Reactiv™ foam prevents you from feeling “stuck” in the bed. Instead, it provides just enough bounce to move easily throughout the night. As one of our testers, Sarah M., put it: “The Zoma Boost offers that perfect balance between softness and support—no matter how I move, it feels comfortable.” With its Bio-Pur® foam, the AS3 offers a perfect combination of cooling, pressure relief, and support. Our testers noted that the mattress maintains a consistently cool surface throughout the night, even for those who tend to sleep hot. The AS3’s medium firmness makes it versatile for various sleep positions, particularly for side and back sleepers. We were impressed by its ability to contour to the body while promoting proper spinal alignment, allowing for restful and uninterrupted sleep. Outstanding Cooling Properties: Balanced Comfort and Support: The Amerisleep AS3 is constructed with three main layers designed for cooling, support, and durability. The top layer is Amerisleep’s proprietary Bio-Pur® foam, which is not only more breathable than traditional memory foam but also responsive and eco-friendly. Beneath that, a transition layer of Affinity foam with HIVE® technology offers zoned support, providing more cushioning where you need it and firmer support where it’s necessary, such as around the lower back. The bottom layer consists of a durable Bio-Core® support base, which ensures the mattress remains stable and durable over time. Sleeping on the Amerisleep AS3 feels both comfortable and refreshing. The Bio-Pur® foam provides a soft, contouring sensation that adapts to your body while maintaining a cooler surface. Our testers noted that the mattress offers great pressure relief, especially for side sleepers, with the perfect amount of sink while preventing you from feeling stuck. The medium firmness makes it versatile enough for back sleepers as well, delivering just the right amount of support. As one of our reviewers, James L., described it: “The AS3 stays cool all night, and I woke up without any aches – it really feels like a perfect balance between soft and firm.” After testing the Zoma Start, our team concluded that this mattress offers impressive value without compromising on quality. Designed with athletes and active individuals in mind, the Zoma Start incorporates cooling and responsive support at an accessible price point. Our testers found that its two-layer construction provides a balance between comfort and support, making it suitable for various sleeping positions. The top layer’s Triangulex™ technology delivers targeted pressure relief, while the base layer ensures long-lasting support and durability. Affordability Without Sacrificing Quality: Targeted Pressure Relief: The Zoma Start is crafted from two main layers designed to offer cooling, comfort, and support. The top layer is made of a breathable, gel-infused foam that helps regulate temperature, ensuring a cooler sleep surface. Embedded within this layer is Zoma’s Triangulex™ technology, which offers zoned support to relieve pressure in key areas such as the shoulders and hips. The base layer is composed of a durable, high-density foam that provides essential support and stability, ensuring the mattress retains its shape over time. Sleeping on the Zoma Start feels both comfortable and supportive. The mattress offers a medium firmness that works well for various sleep positions, with just the right amount of cushioning. Our testers appreciated the cooling properties of the gel-infused foam, which helped prevent heat buildup throughout the night. The zoned support system provides noticeable relief for pressure points, especially for side sleepers. One of our reviewers, Mark R., mentioned, “The Zoma Start feels like a great blend of comfort and support. It’s hard to believe it’s such an affordable option given how well it performs.” With its combination of memory foam and pocketed coils, this mattress excels at isolating motion, which is crucial for those who share a bed. During our testing, the mattress delivered a medium-firm feel that suited a variety of sleeping styles, offering both comfort and support. The Sparrow Hybrid’s edge support also stood out, providing extra stability, which is a significant advantage for couples who need the full surface of the bed. Our testers noted that its combination of responsive foam and sturdy coils creates a perfect balance between bounce and pressure relief, making it ideal for shared sleep. Superior Motion Isolation: Customizable Firmness Options: The Sparrow Hybrid is crafted with a multi-layered design that combines comfort and support. The top layer is a quilted foam cover that adds a soft, luxurious feel while promoting breathability. Beneath this is a layer of Energex™ temperature-responsive foam, which contours to the body while providing bounce and cooling. The core of the mattress is made up of individually pocketed coils, which work to isolate motion and provide durable support across the entire mattress. A base layer of high-density foam enhances durability, ensuring long-lasting performance. Additionally, the Sparrow Hybrid features reinforced edges, which improve edge support and maximize usable sleep space. The Nest Bedding Sparrow Hybrid offers a well-balanced sleep experience that combines comfort and support. Our testers found that the mattress adapts well to different body shapes, with the Energex™ foam providing contouring without excessive sink. The coil system delivers excellent support, particularly for back and stomach sleepers, while the foam layers keep side sleepers comfortable by reducing pressure on the hips and shoulders. As one reviewer, Lisa M., shared, “The Sparrow Hybrid has that perfect mix of soft comfort and firm support, and I barely noticed my partner moving all night.” After extensively testing the Saatva Loom and Leaf, our team found it to be the epitome of luxury with a premium feel and craftsmanship. This memory foam mattress delivers exceptional comfort and support with its high-density foam layers, perfect for sleepers looking for both pressure relief and durability. Our testers were particularly impressed by the cooling features, which include a gel-infused foam that helps regulate temperature, ensuring a cooler sleep surface throughout the night. The Loom and Leaf offer two firmness options, giving sleepers the flexibility to choose their preferred feel. Superior Pressure Relief and Comfort: High-Quality Materials and Craftsmanship: The Saatva Loom and Leaf mattress is constructed with high-density memory foam that provides both pressure relief and support. The top layer consists of a gel-infused foam that works to dissipate heat, keeping the mattress cool even during warmer nights. Beneath this is a layer of premium memory foam that contours to the body, offering targeted support and promoting proper spinal alignment. The supportive base layer of high-density foam ensures the mattress maintains its shape and provides long-term durability. The Loom and Leaf provide a plush yet supportive feel that adapts beautifully to the body’s curves. Our testers appreciated the mattress’s ability to relieve pressure points without sinking too deeply. The mattress has a slightly firmer feel with just enough give to cradle areas like the shoulders and hips. Whether you prefer sleeping on your back, side, or stomach, the Loom and Leaf feel balanced and luxurious. As one of our reviewers, Emily S., mentioned, “It feels like I’m sleeping on a cloud, but with just the right support for my back—it’s a perfect blend of comfort and firmness.” This hybrid mattress combines the best of memory foam and pocketed coils, delivering a balance of pressure relief and bounce. Our testers were impressed by the zoned support, which offers targeted relief for areas like the shoulders and hips while promoting healthy spinal alignment. The breathable cover and gel-infused foam layer keep the surface cool, making it ideal for hot sleepers. We also appreciated how well the coils minimized motion transfer, a key feature for couples. With its medium firmness, the Zoma Hybrid works well for various sleep positions, providing a versatile sleep experience that caters to different preferences. Optimal Balance of Support and Comfort: Cooling and Breathability: The Zoma Hybrid is built with a combination of layers designed to offer comfort, cooling, and support. The top layer features gel-infused memory foam that contours to your body and helps regulate temperature. Below that is a layer of Reactiv™ foam, which adds responsiveness and prevents you from feeling stuck in the mattress. The core is made of individually pocketed coils that provide excellent support while reducing motion transfer, making it great for couples. A high-density foam base rounds out the construction, offering durability and stability to the mattress. The Zoma Hybrid offers a comfortable mix of contouring and support. The memory foam layers provide a plush surface that cradles your body, while the coil system delivers a gentle bounce, preventing you from sinking too deeply. Our testers found that the zoned support system helped to relieve pressure points, especially for side sleepers. The medium firmness level also works well for back sleepers, offering enough support for spinal alignment. As one of our reviewers, John T., shared, “The Zoma Hybrid strikes the perfect balance for me—supportive yet soft enough to make sleeping on my side and back feel comfortable.” Our team thoroughly tested the Leesa Original, and we were impressed by its combination of comfort, support, and convenience. As a mattress that comes compressed and delivered in a box, it offers a hassle-free setup without sacrificing quality. During testing, our reviewers found that the Leesa Original provides a balanced feel, with a medium firmness that caters to a wide range of sleepers. Its three-layer foam construction promotes excellent pressure relief and motion isolation, making it a great choice for couples. The top layer is designed to stay cool, providing airflow that helps maintain a comfortable sleep temperature. Perfect Balance of Comfort and Support: Easy Setup and Convenience: The Leesa Original is constructed with three layers of foam, each designed to enhance comfort and support. The top layer is made from breathable, responsive foam, which promotes airflow and helps regulate temperature throughout the night. Beneath that, a memory foam layer provides pressure relief, contouring to the body to alleviate stress on key areas like the shoulders and hips. The foundation of the mattress consists of a dense core support foam that offers stability and durability, ensuring the mattress retains its shape and provides long-term support. The Leesa Original delivers a balanced feel that caters to different sleep styles. Its medium firmness allows it to be soft enough for side sleepers while still offering adequate support for back and stomach sleepers. Our testers noted how well the mattress distributed weight evenly, preventing pressure buildup. The top layer’s responsive foam adds a slight bounce, making movement easy without feeling stuck. According to one reviewer, Sarah M., “The Leesa Original feels just right—not too firm, not too soft. It contours to my body, but I never feel like I’m sinking in too deeply.” With its adaptive foam, this mattress offers a combination of comfort and support, helping to cushion pressure points like the shoulders and hips. Our testers noted the balanced firmness that contours to the body without feeling too soft or too firm. The Tuft and Needle Original also features open-cell foam that promotes breathability, ensuring a cooler sleep experience throughout the night. What stood out to us was the simplicity of the design which manages to deliver high-end comfort without unnecessary complexity, making it a go-to for those who prefer a straightforward and effective solution for their sleep needs. Optimal Pressure Relief for Side Sleepers: Breathable and Cooling: The Tuft and Needle Original is constructed with two layers of adaptive foam. The top layer is made from T&N Adaptive® foam, designed to contour to your body while providing a slight bounce, ensuring that you won’t feel stuck. This layer also features graphite and cooling gel, which work together to draw heat away from the body and keep the mattress cool. The base layer consists of high-density support foam that provides stability and ensures the mattress maintains its shape over time. The Tuft and Needle Original has a medium-firm feel that works well for a wide range of sleepers but shines particularly for side sleepers. Our testers appreciated how the adaptive foam gently cradled pressure points without making them feel like they were sinking too deeply. The mattress has a slight bounce, which makes movement easy, but it also offers a supportive surface that promotes proper spinal alignment. As one of our reviewers, David L., commented, “The Tuft and Needle Original feels perfectly supportive for my side sleeping. It keeps my shoulders comfortable while still feeling firm enough to support my back.” Our team tested the Layla Mattress and found it to be a truly unique option with its flippable design, offering two firmness levels in one. This flexibility allows sleepers to choose between a soft side and a firm side, catering to various comfort preferences. Our testers appreciated the copper-infused memory foam, which not only provides excellent pressure relief but also offers cooling properties by drawing heat away from the body. The Layla Mattress adapts well to different sleeping positions, and its versatile design made it a standout in our testing process. We particularly liked how both sides deliver a distinct sleep experience, making it a great investment for those looking to experiment with firmness levels without having to buy multiple mattresses. Dual Firmness for Customizable Comfort: Cooling and Pressure Relief Features: The Layla Mattress is constructed with four layers of foam that can be flipped for two different firmness options. On the soft side, there’s a thick layer of copper-infused memory foam that offers a plush, contouring feel and helps dissipate heat. Below this is a support layer made of convoluted foam, which enhances airflow. The firm side features a thinner layer of copper-infused foam, providing a more supportive and firmer sleep surface. The mattress is wrapped in a soft, breathable cover that helps with cooling and adds to the overall comfort, no matter which side you choose to sleep on. The Layla Mattress delivers two distinct experiences depending on which side you choose. The soft side is plush and perfect for sleepers who enjoy sinking into their mattress, providing excellent pressure relief for areas like the shoulders and hips. On the other hand, the firm side offers more support while still maintaining comfort. Our testers found that the mattress adapts well to all sleeping positions. As reviewer Jessica R. commented, “I love that I can flip the Layla depending on how I feel. The soft side is perfect for when I want something cushier, but the firm side gives me great support when I need it.” To explain gel memory foam, we must first understand traditional memory foam. Memory foam is a viscoelastic material that responds to heat and body weight. The material owes much of its popularity to the bed in a box mattress trend, since memory foam is a pliable material that compresses well. Owners also love memory foam for its pressure point relief and motion isolation abilities. Traditional memory foam’s main drawback is that it retains body heat. The foam’s density prevents air circulation from wicking away heat, causing heat build-up that disturbs sleep. Gel memory foam solves the problem by adding cooling gels that absorb and remove body heat. Almost anyone can sleep comfortably on a gel memory foam mattress. However, it’s an excellent choice for: Athletes, who tend to sleep hot because of their increased muscle mass. They also need more sleep than the average person, so a mattress for an athlete needs to prevent sleep disturbances, such as waking in a sweat. Chronic pain sufferers, since the cool feeling and memory foam’s pressure relief let you sleep pain-free. Overweight people, because they may sweat more than the average sleeper and sink deep enough into the mattress to restrict airflow. A mattress for a heavy person needs a firm, cool feel. Couples, because not only does the memory foam prevent a partner’s movement from disturbing the other, but the cooling gels help offset the shared body heat. First, consider how the gel is incorporated in the mattress. Some mattresses have a gel pad layer on top of the mattress, some have gel beads spread throughout the mattress, and others have cooling gels infused into the foam mixture before it sets. Cooling gels are infused in the mattress one of two ways—a solid infusion disperses the gel evenly throughout the mattress, while a swirled infusion is scattered throughout part of the mattress. We recommend a gel-infused memory foam mattress with a solid infusion, because it’s the most effective option for drawing away heat. You also need to consider the gel foam’s thickness. According to data from Sleep Like the Dead, mattresses with gel memory foam layers that were 2 or more inches thick kept cool longer than mattresses with less than 2 inches of gel memory foam. Like traditional memory foam, gel memory foam tends to have a chemical smell for a few days after unboxing. The odor occurs as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are exposed to open air and break down in a process known as off-gassing. High-quality memory foam has a shorter off-gassing period than lower quality foam. If you’re sensitive to smells, look for a mattress with a CertiPUR-US® certification, since it guarantees a mattress contains low amounts of VOCs. Gel memory foam mattresses are comparable in price to a standard memory foam mattress, with quality beds costing between $500 to $1500—although many excellent memory foam mattresses cost under $1000. How much you need to budget for a gel memory foam mattress depends on your preferred size and sleeping position. A larger mattress means more production costs. Side sleepers need thicker comfort layers to relieve pressure points than back or stomach sleepers, which also drives up production costs. If you can’t afford a new gel memory foam mattress right now, you can always tide yourself over with a gel foam topper. A mattress topper adds a few extra inches of gel foam to your bed for a cooler feel. Gel foam toppers tend to cost between $100 to $300, a fraction of what a quality mattress costs. Adding cooling gels isn’t the only way to keep a memory foam mattress from overheating. Manufacturers sometimes use other materials to create a cooling memory foam mattress. A common alternative is to infuse another conductive material to wick away heat. Copper is a popular choice, as it also has antimicrobial properties. Other infusions include graphite, charcoal, ceramic beads, and green tea extract. Some manufacturers use plant-based memory foam, created by substituting petrochemicals with plant-derived materials during production. Plant-based foam is not only more eco-friendly than traditional memory foam, but also more breathable and responsive. Perhaps a gel memory foam mattress isn’t the best mattress for you. If so, you might consider a latex, innerspring, or hybrid mattress. Latex is like memory foam, as it conforms to body weight for pressure relief. However, there are a few key differences—latex is a springier material that tends to keep you feeling lifted. Latex is also naturally firmer and cooler than memory foam. If you’re an eco-friendly shopper, a natural latex mattress is an excellent option. Manufacturers produce natural latex from rubber tree sap, although Dunlop latex is the only latex that is 100 percent natural. The other natural latex option, Talalay latex, has chemical fillers to soften the material. Natural latex mattresses are one of the more expensive mattresses on the market. Synthetic latex is more budget-friendly, with the trade-off that it’s much less durable than natural latex. While a natural latex mattress may last 15 or more years, synthetic latex often breaks down within six years. Though innerspring mattresses have become somewhat overshadowed by other mattress types, they remain a familiar mainstay. Many customers still choose an innerspring mattress for its bounce. An innerspring mattress is an excellent cooling mattress because the coils allow room for airflow. However, the mattress’s interior space also gives allergens and dust mites plenty of room to collect and multiply. The coils also tend to sag within five to six years. Innerspring mattresses also have low customer satisfaction scores, with many owners complaining about insufficient pressure relief. The thin comfort layer typically isn’t enough to prevent you from feeling the coils pressing up against your body, adding to the pressure rather than alleviating it. Hybrid mattresses draw upon the best of innerspring mattresses and foam mattresses. A hybrid’s comfort layers may have 2 to 3 inches of gel memory foam, traditional memory foam, latex, or poly-foam. The coils support layer typically has pocketed coils to prevent motion transfer, with every coil wrapped so it can react independently. If grouped close, the coils can offer extra support for the head, shoulders, lumbar, hips, and feet. Hybrid mattresses have a high price tag since they blend high-quality foams with coils. The average lifespan of a hybrid is six to seven years. When looking for your perfect mattress, you want to consider your preferred sleeping position, what firmness and size suits you best, and the mattress’s attached policies. You probably fall asleep best in one position, whether it’s lying on your side or snoozing on your back or stomach. No matter what your preference is, it’s important to keep your spine in neutral alignment with the right mattress. How pressure accumulates in your body depends on the position, affecting what the best mattress firmness is for you. Side sleeping is the most popular position, but you risk waking with sore hips and shoulders if your mattress can’t soothe the pressure points that build in your side. Your hips and shoulders are where most of the pressure accumulates. The best mattress for a side sleeper has a soft to medium feel to relieve pressure in the shoulders and hips. Make sure the mattress isn’t so soft that your spine bows as you sink in. Back sleeping naturally maintains neutral spine alignment, since your posture is close to what it would be if you were standing straight. The position evenly distributes your weight, which prevents pressure from building up in your body. A mattress for back sleeping should have a medium-firm to firm feel for support. If you’re a stomach sleeper, we strongly recommend switching to side or back sleeping. Stomach sleeping overextends the spine when gravity pushes down on your stomach, causing back pain that can escalate into more serious back issues, such as sciatica. If you love stomach sleeping, look for a firm mattress to prevent sinkage. We recommend keeping a pillow under your stomach as an extra precaution. Do you fall asleep in one position and wake up in another? Then you’re a combination sleeper, moving throughout different positions in the night. A mattress with a medium firmness and motion isolation best suits the various positions and prevents sleep disturbances. Mattress companies have a 1 to 10 scale to determine the firmness level of a bed. If you’re over 230 pounds, look for a firmer mattress to better take on your weight and contour to your body. If you’re under 130 pounds, look for a softer mattress to relieve pressure. The best mattress size depends on the size of your room, your budget, and whether you’re sleeping alone or sharing a bed. We strongly recommend leaving at least 30 inches of walking space around your mattress, along with any space needed for bedroom furniture. Twin and twin XL size mattresses are excellent for smaller spaces, such as a child’s room, guest bedroom, or studio apartment. Full size mattresses offer single sleepers the room to shift positions without rolling off the mattress. A queen size mattress is the most popular size, since it fits in most bedrooms and suits couples and single sleepers. If you or your partner is more than 6 feet tall, you might want to consider a California king size mattress for the additional legroom. Read our Queen vs. California King guide for a full comparison. A quality mattress should come with a policy that lets you try it out at home for a set number of days and a guarantee that the company will repair or replace a defective mattress. Sleep trials, warranties, and return policies save you from having to spend extra money on another mattress if your new one is unsuitable. Sleep trials are most commonly attached to online mattresses, although you can find in-store mattresses that have them. A person may need a month to adjust to a new mattress, and most trial periods give you much more time to decide how you like the mattress—typically between 90 to 120 days. If you don’t find your mattress comfortable, you can return it for a full refund. One way to judge a mattress’s quality is by examining its warranty. The mattress industry’s standard for a warranty is 10 years—a shorter warranty may mean the mattress is made with lower-quality parts. Check how deep the mattress needs to sag to be covered by the warranty—a good warranty covers sagging around an inch because a higher quality mattress is less likely to sag. The warranty of lower quality mattresses typically only covers sagging greater than 2 inches. Return policies detail the conditions under which you can return the mattress. Some companies won’t accept a mattress back if it’s been opened, others will accept a return if the mattress is clean and undamaged. How you return the mattress can vary—a mattress company may pick up the mattress for you, or it might ask you to donate the mattress and show proof of donation before you receive a refund. Sleeping on a gel memory foam mattress isn’t the only measure you can take for a good night’s sleep. Consider also your bedding, bed frame, bedroom setup, sleepwear, and bedtime routine. First, look at how much bedding you’re using. Get rid of the duvet or quilt if you’re sleeping hot, and try a light blanket or just the fitted sheet instead. Then consider the materials of your sheets, blankets, and pillowcase—synthetic fabrics such as polyester and rayon trap more heat than natural fabrics. Cotton, linen, and bamboo are more breathable choices than silk or flannel sheets. If you use a mattress pad, look for a thin one without a quilted design. Quilted mattress pads have thicker tops that can trap heat. Look for a breathable cotton top or a pad with cool gel fibers. The breathability of your pillow depends on its fill. The best pillows for a cool night’s sleep are down, shredded memory foam, latex, buckwheat, and cotton. If your bed frame is solid, body heat may have difficulty escaping the mattress. The best foundations for a memory foam mattress have space in the bottom and around the sides for heat to disperse. We recommend slats that are at least half an inch thick and no more than 2.75 inches apart to maintain support for your mattress. Your bedroom should be between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit—it may take a few tries to find the exact temperature right for you. If you wake up shivering, raise the temperature a degree or two. And if you wake up sweating or are too warm to fall asleep, take the thermostat a couple of degrees down. If you sweat through your pajamas, change them out for something lighter. Lose the flannel, silk, or polyester and go for a more breathable fabric like cotton or bamboo. Look for short sleeves and shorter pant length. Try going up a size as well, since a loose fit improves airflow. You might be scratching your head at how a warm bath cools you down. When you soak in warm water, blood circulation to your hands and feet increases, causing your body to give off more heat and lower your core temperature. Try bathing an hour or two before bed in water between 104 to 109 degrees Fahrenheit. Exercise raises your body temperature, which many believe can interfere with your body’s natural cooldown. However, a 2018 review challenges this view, noting that in most reviewed studies, evening exercise can improve sleep quality. Only a strenuous workout within an hour of bedtime was found to negatively affect sleep quality. If nighttime is your best time to work out, we suggest restricting your workouts to 5 to 7 p.m. The main exception is gentle stretches before bed, which can help your mind and body relax. Memory foam and gel foam each have their pros and cons. Gel foam keeps you cool, but traditional memory foam has a lower price tag. There are also other cooling alternatives to traditional memory foam, such as plant-based memory foam and foam infused with copper, graphite, ceramic beads, or green tea extract. Like traditional memory foam, a gel memory foam mattress tends to last 7 to 10 years. Gel memory foam is safe to sleep on, as is traditional memory foam. A memory foam mattress’s raw components are harmful only during the manufacturing process. If you want security that you’re buying a safe memory foam mattress, look for a certification such as CertiPUR-US® and GREENGUARD Gold. No. Most memory foam mattresses have a bottom layer of base foam and a top memory foam layer. Flipping the mattress compresses the comfort layer and leaves you lying on the mattress’s support layer. Your mattress can’t freeze up, but the room temperature does affect a memory foam bed’s feel. Memory foam firms up in colder temperatures and softens when it’s warm. Gel memory foam improves upon traditional memory foam with its coolness while retaining memory foam’s best features—pressure relief and motion isolation. It’s a durable choice that can last up to a decade, providing you with many nights of comfortable sleep. This article is for informational purposes and should not replace advice from your doctor or other medical professional. Sarah Anderson is a sleep, health, and wellness writer and product reviewer. She has written articles on changing and improving your sleep schedule, choosing the right mattress for chronic pain conditions, and finding the best pillow for you. Sarah Anderson has her Bachelor of Arts degree from Arizona State University in Journalism and Mass Communications. Prior to working for Zoma, she wrote for a variety of news publications. Sarah's work has been featured on Bustle, PureWow, and other publications.Best Gel Memory Foam Mattress
Best Mattress Overall
1. Zoma Boost
Our team was particularly impressed with Zoma Boost’s cooling abilities. The gel-infused memory foam works hand-in-hand with the breathable cover to keep you cool throughout the night, even during hot summer months.
We chose this mattress for its unique Reactiv™ foam layer, which provides the perfect blend of contouring and bounce. Whether you sleep on your side or back, our testers noted how well the Zoma Boost adapts, ensuring minimal motion transfer.Best Cooling Mattress
2. Amerisleep AS3
The Bio-Pur® foam layer is highly breathable, ensuring that heat dissipates quickly and you remain cool throughout the night, even in warm climates.
Our testers found that the mattress’s medium firmness provided enough cushioning for pressure relief while still offering the support necessary to maintain proper alignment.Best Value Mattress
3. Zoma Start
Our team selected the Zoma Start because it offers the core benefits of a premium mattress at a more budget-friendly price. Despite its affordability, the mattress delivers top-tier performance, making it an excellent value option.
The Zoma Start’s Triangulex™ technology stood out during our testing for its ability to provide targeted pressure relief, especially around the hips and shoulders. This feature makes it especially beneficial for side sleepers.Best Mattress for Couples
4. Nest Bedding Sparrow
Our testers were pleased with how well it minimized disturbances caused by movement, making it an excellent choice for couples.
The Sparrow Hybrid offers three firmness options, and we appreciated this feature, which allows couples to choose the feel that best fits their comfort preferences.Best Luxury Mattress
5. Saatva Loom and Leaf
Our team selected the Saatva Loom and Leaf for its ability to provide high levels of pressure relief, particularly in key areas like the shoulders and hips, while maintaining comfort across various sleep positions.
We were impressed by the Loom and Leaf’s premium materials, including eco-friendly, high-density foams, and the meticulous craftsmanship that delivers durability and long-lasting performance.Best Hybrid Mattress
6. Zoma Hybrid
We selected the Zoma Hybrid for its ability to blend the contouring feel of memory foam with the supportive bounce of pocketed coils.
The gel-infused foam and breathable fabric cover make the Zoma Hybrid a top pick for sleepers who tend to overheat during the night.Best Mattress in a Box
7. Leesa Original
We chose the Leesa Original because our testers found it offers just the right combination of comfort and support. Its medium firmness works well for back, side, and stomach sleepers alike.
The Leesa Original’s delivery-in-a-box design makes it a convenient option for those who want a straightforward setup without sacrificing the high-quality features of a traditional mattress.Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
7. Tuft and Needle Original
Our team found the Tuft and Needle Original to excel at relieving pressure in key areas like the shoulders and hips, making it an excellent choice for side sleepers seeking comfort without sinking too deeply.
We selected this mattress for its open-cell foam technology, which our testers found effective at maintaining airflow and preventing overheating during the night.Best Flippable Mattress
8. Layla Mattress
Our testers appreciated the ability to flip the mattress and choose the comfort level that best suited their needs.
Our team highlighted the copper-infused memory foam, which provides not only superior pressure relief but also helps in temperature regulation, making it an excellent choice for hot sleepers.What is Gel Memory Foam?
Who Should Sleep on a Gel Memory Foam Mattress?
Judging a Gel Foam Mattress’s Quality
How Much to Budget?
Cooling Alternatives to Gel Memory Foam
Other Mattress Types
Latex
Innerspring
Hybrid
More Mattress Shopping Considerations
Sleeping Position
Side Sleeper
Back Sleeper
Stomach Sleeper
Combination Sleeper
Mattress Firmness
Firmness Level Description Best For 1 Ultra Soft Side sleepers who prefer a plush feel. 2-3 Soft Lightweight sleepers or those with joint pain. 4-5 Medium Soft Combination sleepers and side sleepers. 6-7 Medium Firm Back sleepers and couples with varying preferences. 8-9 Firm Stomach sleepers or those who need more support. 10 Ultra Firm Heavier individuals or those who prefer very little give. Mattress Size
Mattress Size Dimensions (inches) Best For Recommended Room Size Considerations Twin 38″ x 75″ Children, teenagers, or solo sleepers in small rooms. At least 7′ x 10′ Budget-friendly and space-saving. Ideal for guest rooms or kids. Twin XL 38″ x 80″ Taller solo sleepers (teens or adults). At least 8′ x 10′ Extra legroom compared to a standard twin. Full 54″ x 75″ Solo sleepers who need more space. At least 9′ x 10′ More width, but not suitable for couples who need space. Queen 60″ x 80″ Couples or solo sleepers who like more room. At least 10′ x 10′ Most popular size, good for couples. Budget and room-friendly. King 76″ x 80″ Couples who want maximum sleeping space. At least 12′ x 12′ Requires a larger budget and room but offers luxurious space. California King 72″ x 84″ Taller couples or those who need extra legroom. At least 12′ x 12′ Ideal for taller individuals but slightly narrower than a King. Sleep Trial, Warranty, Return Policy
Sleep Trial
Warranty
Return Policy
Other Ways to Keep Cool at Night
Breathable Bedding
Ventilated Foundation
Lower the Thermostat
Wear Loose, Breathable Sleepwear
Cool Off With a Warm Bath
Avoid Too Much Exercise Before Bed
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, memory foam or gel memory foam?
How long do gel memory foam mattresses last?
Is gel memory foam toxic?
Can you flip a memory foam mattress?
Can a gel memory foam mattress freeze?
Did We Help?
Sarah Anderson, Certified Sleep Science Coach
