Alison Barretta
Based in Philadelphia, USA, freelance writer and editor Alison Barretta has been sharing buying advice and retail news for over 15 years. Since 2020 she's been helping Tom's Guide expand its robust library of sleep content by researching the latest trends, speaking with renowned experts, and going behind the scenes at Saatva, Casper, Sleep Number, Tempur-Pedic, and 3Z Brands. Alison has reviewed everything from budget memory foam mattresses and luxurious innerspring beds to immersive sound pods and $7,000 smart beds that automatically adjust to your every move. When she isn't reviewing mattresses or searching for great deals to save you money, Alison can be found practicing yoga and martial arts, experimenting with recipes, getting too invested in the Philadelphia Flyers, and snoozing with her cat / assistant mattress tester Alex.
Latest articles by Alison Barretta

5 reasons not to put a mattress on the floor — and 3 reasons why you should
By Claire Davies last updated
Can you put a mattress on the floor? From mold to bed bugs, there are plenty of reasons not to, but some big benefits too.

What mattress does the Westin use?
By Ruth Jones last updated
Westin hotels have been using the Heavenly Bed for over 25 years. Here's why guests still love it, plus how to buy your own.

Box spring vs platform bed: which one is right for your mattress?
By Alison Barretta last updated
Deciding between a box spring vs platform bed? Here's what you need to know about these popular bed types.

What is lumbar support in a mattress?
By Alison Barretta last updated
Find out why all sleepers benefit from proper lumbar support in a mattress. We also share ways to boost your current bed's lumbar support.

How thick should a mattress be?
By Alison Barretta last updated
Unsure whether to buy a tall or short mattress? Here's how to choose the right mattress thickness for your needs.

Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt mattress review
By Alison Barretta last updated
We tested the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt mattress to see if it really can deliver "legendary pressure relief" — and justify the price tag.

The best mattresses on Amazon 2025: Our 7 top-rated picks
By Nicola Appleton last updated
Find the best Amazon mattress for your budget and sleep needs, courtesy of our expertly-curated list.

Nectar Mattress review 2025: Is this still the best budget memory foam bed?
By Alison Barretta last updated
Review The Nectar Mattress claims to deliver big comfort and support for nearly half the price of its many rivals. We review it to see just how well it performs.

Do memory foam mattresses cause back pain?
By Jo Plumridge published
If you experience back pain, you’ll know how important the right mattress is. We explain how memory foam mattresses can cause back pain — and how they can also help.

Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper review 2025
By Alison Barretta last updated
The Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper offers luxurious comfort that's similar to its full-fledged mattresses, but at a much lower cost.

Lucid Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper review 2025
By Alison Barretta last updated
The Lucid Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper is one of the most cost-effective ways to make your bed extremely plush. Here's how we fared after sleeping on it for two weeks...

Awara Natural Hybrid Mattress review 2025
By Alison Barretta last updated
We review the Awara Natural Hybrid Mattress to discover whether this budget-friendly, all-natural bed is good for your sleep as well as the planet

Do mattresses need box springs?
By Alison Barretta published
What you need to know about using a box spring with a hybrid, memory foam, latex or innerspring mattress.

DreamCloud Mattress review 2025
By Alison Barretta last updated
We tested the DreamCloud Mattress for three weeks to see if this affordable hybrid can deliver the luxury sleep it promises.

The best mattress under $1,000 in 2025: Queen-size comfort for less
By Alison Barretta last updated
You may have a queen-size bed but you don't have to spend a royal fortune for a good mattress. These are the best mattresses under $1,000 according to our experts.

Coop Home Goods Original Pillow review 2024
By Alison Barretta last updated
The Coop Home Goods Original is a crowd-favorite pillow. We explore if it’s worth the praise.

Hard vs soft mattress: Which is best for general aches and pains?
By Alison Barretta published
Just like taco shells, you'll need to consider whether you want your mattress to be hard or soft. Here's when you should go for a firmer or plushier bed to alleviate your aches and pains.

Mattresses sizes: a complete guide and how to choose
By Alison Barretta published
Our essential mattress size guide outlines the main US and UK mattress sizes to help you find the right mattress size for you.

What is a hybrid mattress and are they any good?
By Alison Barretta published
What does 'hybrid mattress' mean? Is sleeping on one good for you? The answer to those questions and more revealed.

As a pro mattress tester, these are my 3 golden rules of Black Friday sales shopping
By Alison Barretta published
I'm a mattress tester and deal hunter who's been covering Black Friday sales for 15 years. Here's what you need to know about scoring a winning mattress deal this Black Friday.

Is there such a thing as a mattress for life? We explore forever warranties
By Alison Barretta published
Does a lifetime warranty mean your mattress will last forever? Not quite, so here’s what you need to know before buying.

What is sleep hygiene? Here are 6 ways to improve yours
By Jo Plumridge published
We explain the importance of sleep hygiene and offer six tips to help you achieve your best rest.

Tuft & Needle Mint Hybrid mattress review 2025
By Alison Barretta published
The Tuft & Needle Mint Hybrid is the latest addition to the Tuft & Needle lineup. After sleeping on it for three weeks, here's our review...
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