
Alison Barretta
Based in Philadelphia, 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 mattresses to immersive luxury 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

Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Mattress review: 'Legendary pressure relief' back sleepers will love
By Alison Barretta last updated
Editor's ChoiceThe Tempur-Adapt is among the most affordable Tempur-Pedic mattresses available, but who is it right for? Here's what we learned after sleeping on it for three weeks.

What is GOTS certification and why does it matter when you’re buying a mattress?
By Alison Barretta published
GOTS (the Global Organic Textiles Standard) ensures natural materials used in mattresses are sourced ethically and responsibly. Here's what that means.

How often should you rotate or flip your mattress?
By Alison Barretta last updated
We explain how often you should rotate your mattress and why certain mattresses should never be flipped.

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.

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.

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.

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 a platform bed and do I need one?
By Alison Barretta published
Your bed frame can influence the comfort of your mattress – so what is a platform bed, and do you need one? We explain...

Help your kids fall asleep easily on Christmas Eve with these 4 expert tips
By Alison Barretta published
If your child is too excited to fall asleep on Christmas Eve, follow these four expert tips to help lull them into a peaceful holiday slumber.

3 Black Friday mattress shopping hacks to save you more money
By Alison Barretta published
Don't browse this year's Black Friday mattress sales until you check out these three money-saving shopping hacks.

Should you buy a mattress on Black Friday? We reveal all
By Alison Barretta published
Is Black Friday really the best time of year to buy a mattress? In a word, yes – but there are things to know to make sure you get the best bargain.

Casper launches new Element pro mattress for more support at an affordable cost
By Alison Barretta published
Casper has launched the Element pro mattress, which promises "Casper comfort at a cozy price." We have all the details here.

Want a mattress or bed to help you stop or reduce snoring? Try these...
By Alison Barretta last updated
Achieving a quieter night's sleep may be a simple as replacing your bed or mattress. Here are the ones we recommend...

Purple launches new Purple Plus mattress and it's a big win for comfier sleep
By Alison Barretta last updated
The new Purple Plus mattress improves upon its predecessor with a premium cooling foam layer for all-night comfort.

Breville Precision Brewer review
By Alison Barretta published
The Breville Precision Brewer is a lot to handle, but it's your key to producing the perfect cup of coffee.

Braun Brew Sense KF6050WH drip coffee maker review
By Alison Barretta published
We put the Braun Brew Sense KF6050WH through its paces to see if it's the best coffee maker around.

Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select review
By Alison Barretta published
The Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select is made for brew enthusiasts — and it certainly delivers.

Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker review
By Alison Barretta published
The versatile Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker can make your morning cup of coffee plus fancy cafe-style drinks.
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