
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

What mattresses do hotels use?
By Alison Barretta last updated
Want to recreate hotel luxury in the comfort of your own home? These are the mattresses and bedding top hotels around the world use, plus their affordable alternatives

Best Eight Sleep mattress deals for May 2026
By Alison Barretta last updated
Ready to upgrade to an Eight Sleep Pod? Find out how you can save this month.

Can the right mattress relieve your back and joint pain? Here's what the experts say
By Alison Barretta published
Can relieving your aches and pains be as simple as swapping your mattress? According to experts, that might be the answer — but here's what you need to keep in mind before you go shopping.

What mattress do Marriott hotels use?
By Ruth Jones last updated
This is what makes the Marriott mattress suit so many sleepers, and you can enjoy it in the comfort of your own bedroom

Zinus mattress sales December 2025: Up to 40% off mattresses in Zinus winter sale
By Ruth Jones, Alison Barretta last updated
Explore our expert guide to this month's Zinus mattress deals and grab additional savings on these affordable beds.

Boxing Day mattress deals 2025: Last chance to grab these Boxing Day deals
By Rachael Penn last updated
These Boxing Day mattress deals are still kicking around. Shop now before sales ends

Saatva Classic vs WinkBed: Which mattress should you buy if you're a side sleeper with back pain?
By Jo Plumridge last updated
Hotel-luxury for every sleep style but should you buy the WinkBed or Saatva Classic this Black Friday? We've tested them both and this is our expert opinion.

What is the Ritz-Carlton Hotel mattress — and should you buy it?
By Ruth Jones last updated
Ritz-Carlton mattress can deliver the 'unrivaled' comfort it promises — and it could be your best Black Friday splurge. Here's all you need to know.

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.

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.

Labor Day Mattress Sales: What you need to know
By Claire Davies last updated
The Labor Day sales are an excellent time to save on a mattress — here's our complete guide to the deals and how to get better sleep for less.

What is the best DreamCloud mattress in 2025?
By Frances Daniels last updated
Our in-depth guide to DreamCloud mattresses will help you find the best luxury bed for your sleep and budget.

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.

How do mattress warranties work?
By Alison Barretta last updated
Mattress warranties can be daunting. We're here to help you make sense of them.

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 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.

What is a Japanese floor mattress?
By Frances Daniels last updated
From saving space to providing firm support on a budget, a Japanese floor mattress has lots of benefits, but it won't suit everyone – here's why.

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.

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.
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