
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

Full vs queen mattresses: Which size is best for your sleep?
By Grace Franks last updated
In our full vs queen mattress comparison, we explain the key differences and pros and cons of both sizes.

Saatva Classic vs WinkBed: Which customizable hybrid mattress should you buy?
By Jo Plumridge last updated
How to choose between the Saatva Classic and the WinkBed if you're searching for a hybrid mattress you can tailor to your liking.

How thick should a mattress be?
By Sharmishta Sarkar published
Mattress thickness influences how a mattress feels and performs, but it's often overlooked when shopping for a new bed. Here's how to choose the right mattress thickness for your needs.

Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt mattress review: 'legendary pressure relief' and impressive support
By Alison Barretta last updated
We slept on the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt mattress and assessed its performance across comfort, support, motion isolation and more.

What mattress does the Westin use?
By Ruth Jones last updated
We've been hands-on with the Westin Heavenly Bed and here's everything you need to know about the much-loved hotel mattress.

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.

Mattress White Glove Delivery: What's included and how it works
By Claire Davies last updated
We explain everything you need to know about mattress White Glove Delivery, including which brands offer it.

What are mattress trials and how do they work?
By Claire Davies last updated
Many sleep brands talk about their mattress trial periods, but what are they and how do they work? We have answers.

What mattress does the Hampton Inn use?
By Jo Plumridge published
We look under the covers of the Hampton Hotel Bed used at the Hampton Inn to see if it’s worth buying one for yourself.

How to know if your mattress has fiberglass
By Frances Daniels last updated
Learn how to spot fiberglass in your mattress, plus the three best deals for fiberglass-free mattresses available right now.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

5 reasons you SHOULDN'T buy a mattress on Amazon in the Prime Day sales
By Alison Barretta published
Amazon will be flush with Prime Day deals, but if it's a new mattress you're shopping for, it's best avoided. Here's what you need to know...

How to sleep better on an uncomfortable mattress – 7 easy hacks
By Claire Davies last updated
Broken sleep isn't fun, so try these easy hacks to make your mattress instantly more comfortable.
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