Alison Barretta
Freelance writer and editor Alison is an expert mattress tester for Tom's Guide, and hails from Philadelphia, USA. Alison has reviewed a wide range of mattresses, pillows and other sleep accessories for Tom's Guide, putting the latest hybrid, memory foam and cooling mattresses from Casper, Nectar, Awara, Brooklinen and other leading brands through their paces. Alison has been sharing buying advice and retail news for over a decade. When she isn't reviewing mattresses, other home products or hunting for great deals to save you money, Alison can be found teaching/training in martial arts, fawning over skincare, and indulging in her quarantine-borne hobby: cooking.
Latest articles by Alison Barretta
Should I buy a mattress in the Presidents' Day sales?
By Alison Barretta published
Presidents' Day mattress sales are here, and they're abundant. Before you browse, here's what you need to know in order to secure the best deal.
Emma mattress sales and deals for April: up to 60% off mattresses and bundles
By Claire Davies last updated
Emma mattress sales in the US and UK are showcasing discounts of up to 60% off – here's how to claim.
Box spring vs platform bed: which one is right for your mattress?
By Alison Barretta published
Deciding between a box spring vs platform bed? Here's what you need to know about these popular bed types.
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...
Sleep expert reveals the best type of mattress for back pain
By Alison Barretta last updated
We speak with a neurobiologist and sleep expert to find out what type of mattress can help alleviate back pain and why.
Nolah Evolution 15 mattress review 2024
By Alison Barretta last updated
We put Nolah's best-selling luxury cooling mattress through its paces to see how well it performs for all types of sleepers.
The 3 best after Christmas mattress sales to revamp your sleep in the new year
By Alison Barretta published
New year, new mattress? Shop the best after Christmas mattress sales and save.
How often should you replace your mattress?
By Adam Marshall last updated
If you think your mattress is for life, we have news for you. See how often you should really replace your mattress and how to tell if it's time for a change.
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.
Mattress jargon buster: key mattress terms explained
By Claire Davies last updated
From edge support to motion isolation, we explain what all of that mattress jargon really means.
What to do when you can’t sleep — 5 tips you need to try
By Claire Davies last updated
Five of the best techniques to use when you can’t sleep at night.
Best Sealy mattress sales and deals in April 2024
By Millie Fender published
The best Sealy mattress sales on Posturepedic mattresses and cooling hybrids, no promo code needed.
Saatva vs Tempur-Pedic mattress toppers: Which one should you buy?
By Grace Franks last updated
When it comes to quality, Saatva vs Tempur-Pedic mattress toppers is a close battle. Here's how to pick between them...
I test mattresses for a living and I'd buy these 3 on Cyber Monday
By Alison Barretta last updated
Cyber Monday mattress sales are live and there are plenty of deals to be found – but these three are most deserving of your attention...
How to spot a Black Friday mattress bargain: 5 tips to follow to help you save
By Paul Dimery published
Follow our expert tips for spotting a Black Friday mattress bargain from a dud.
Lucid Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper review 2024
By Alison Barretta published
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...
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.
Tuft & Needle Labor Day Sale takes up to $600 off its award-winning mattresses
By Alison Barretta published
Browse the Tuft & Needle Labor Day Sale for up to $600 off memory foam and hybrid mattresses, plus up to 20% off bedding essentials.
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...
Tuft and Needle Original mattress review 2024
By Alison Barretta published
Review Will the affordable Tuft and Needle Original mattress suit your sleep needs? Our in-depth review has all the details...
Purple Harmony Pillow review 2021
By Alison Barretta last updated
The Purple Harmony Pillow is pricey, but it's worth it for side sleepers who prefer a softer sleep pillow.