Editorial Standards
Our editorial process is built on one principle: we write for readers, not brands. Every review, guide, and recommendation is governed by strict standards that protect our independence and your trust.
Editorial independence since 2020 · FTC compliant · Updated June 2026
Our Core Editorial Principles
Independence First
No brand, advertiser, or affiliate partner has any influence over our scores, recommendations, or editorial conclusions. Our ratings are determined solely by testing outcomes.
Accuracy & Verification
All factual claims are verified before publication. Pricing, specifications, and product details are checked against manufacturer sources and updated when changes occur.
Full Transparency
We disclose all affiliate relationships, how products were obtained (purchased vs. gifted), and any material connection to the brands we cover.
Science-Backed
Our testing methodology was developed with sleep medicine professionals. We cite peer-reviewed research to support our recommendations and avoid anecdotal conclusions.
What We Will Never Do
Accept payment in exchange for a positive review or higher rating
Publish a review without hands-on testing by a qualified team member
Allow affiliate commissions to influence which products we recommend
Remove or alter a negative review at a brand's request
Present sponsored content as organic editorial without clear disclosure
Make performance claims we cannot verify through our own testing data
How Products Are Selected for Review
We select products for review based on market relevance, reader demand, price-point coverage, and the ability to fill gaps in our category coverage. We do not review products simply because a brand has reached out to us.
Most products we review are purchased at retail price. In some cases, brands send review units at no charge. When this occurs, we disclose it prominently within the review. A free sample never influences our score — we have published negative reviews of gifted products on multiple occasions.
We prioritise products that are widely available to US consumers, offered with a meaningful sleep trial period, and priced within ranges our readers regularly purchase.
Content Review & Update Process
Annual Re-Review
Every published review is revisited annually to verify pricing, check for product changes, and update scores if the product has been reformulated or discontinued.
Expert Sign-Off
All reviews and guides are read and approved by at least one domain expert before publication — either our Sleep Science Lead or Senior Mattress Reviewer.
Reader Corrections
If a reader identifies a factual error, we investigate within 48 hours and issue a correction with a date stamp if the error is confirmed. We never silently edit published content.
Questions About Our Standards
If you have a question about how a specific review was conducted, why a particular product was or was not recommended, or any other editorial matter, please contact us at editorial@mattressguidepro.com. We read every message and respond to substantive editorial questions within 3 business days.