Written by Logan Block, Mattress Reviewer
Brooklyn Bedding offers a few of its models in RV-friendly mattress sizes. The Dreamfoam Essential is the first RV mattress Brooklyn Bedding offered, and in my opinion it’s one of the best RV mattresses out there.
As the name suggests, this mattress is designed with travelers in mind, so it comes in several heights and a wide range of sizes tailored to RVs. I ran it through the whole gamut of tests, and I’m excited to share what I learned with you here!
Ready to learn more about this RV mattress? Then read on for my comprehensive review. Or jump down to my review summary if you just want the nuts and bolts.
Editor’s Note: This mattress was formerly called the Brooklyn Bedding Wanderlust RV mattress. It is now called the Dreamfoam Essential and is available in RV and non-RV sizes. This review has been updated to reflect the name change.
The Dreamfoam Essential is a very affordable memory foam mattress that is available in multiple heights.
The Dreamfoam Essential is a very affordable memory foam mattress that is available in multiple heights.
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Is the Dreamfoam Essential a Good Mattress for You?
Brooklyn Bedding is making a splash in the RV mattress market with its RVMattress.com brand. In addition to the Dreamfoam Essential, the company also sells other RV mattress models and accessories such as sheets, pillows, blankets, and mattress protectors. I’ll compare the Dreamfoam Essential to two of Brooklyn Bedding’s other RV models a little later on. But first, let’s learn who the Dreamfoam Essential might work for.
Who I recommend the Dreamfoam Essential mattress for
- This is a great option for folks who need an RV or camper mattress. The Dreamfoam Essential comes in a variety of RV-specific sizes, which isn’t the case for all bed-in-a-box mattresses. I wouldn’t recommend this mattress for at-home use, but it’s well suited to RVs.
- This could be a nice choice for back sleepers. The mattress’s firm support does a nice job of keeping the hips elevated and aligned with the spine.
- Memory foam lovers might appreciate the feel of this bed. While firm, it offers some of the sinkage and body contouring that’s characteristic of memory foam.
Who I don’t recommend the Dreamfoam Essential mattress for
- This mattress sleeps a little hot. The thick cover makes the bed less breathable, and the memory foam comfort layer might trap some body heat.
- This bed lacks bounce, and it will probably have a slow response as you try to move around and change positions. If you like a mattress with a springy feel, consider an innerspring mattress or latex mattress option.
What Does the Dreamfoam Essential Mattress Feel Like?
To help you decide if the Dreamfoam Essential might be a comfortable mattress for you, I evaluated its feel and firmness level. Keep in mind that firmness is a bit subjective. Your body weight, shape, size and personal preferences will affect how firm a mattress feels to you – and the same is true for me! For reference, I’m a strict stomach sleeper who weighs about 190 pounds.
After spending time on the Dreamfoam Essential, I ranked it around a 7.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale. The industry standard for medium firmness is 6.5, so this is a firm mattress. This feel could appeal to back and stomach sleepers, because it helps support spinal alignment.
That said, it’s worth noting that heavier folks might feel like this thin, all-foam mattress is firmer and less supportive, because they might press through the memory foam comfort layer onto the firmer poly foam layer. If you’re looking for a thicker layer of comfort foam I’d recommend checking our best memory foam mattress list for some other great options.
The Dreamfoam Essential is a very affordable memory foam mattress that is available in multiple heights.
The Dreamfoam Essential is a very affordable memory foam mattress that is available in multiple heights.
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Testing the Dreamfoam Essential Mattress
Firmness provides valuable insights into a mattress, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. To really determine whether a mattress is a good fit for you, it’s also important to consider pressure relief and motion transfer. So let’s do that now!
Pressure Relief
Need a quick primer on pressure relief? Here you go! It’s all about whether a bed will help alleviate tension at sensitive areas such as the hips, lower back, and shoulders. This term tells you whether a mattress will cushion sensitive pressure points so you can enjoy comfortable sleep in your preferred position.
To test the pressure relief on the Dreamfoam Essential, I used a helpful tool called a pressure map. I position this device on top of the mattress, climb aboard, and let the map track my body’s force as I try different positions. Low-pressure areas are highlighted in blue and green, and high pressure areas show up in yellow and red.
Back — When I was on my back my weight felt evenly distributed. I sunk into the memory foam comfort layer just a touch and enjoyed some body-contouring, while the firmer support layer ensured my hips stayed elevated and aligned with my spine. Back sleepers should appreciate the support on this bed.
Side — Changing positions is a little laborious due to the lack of bounce on this mattress. When I arrive on my side, I do experience a bit of sinkage and pressure relief from the memory foam layer. But, overall, the bed feels a little too firm in this position, and I’m feeling some pressure around my shoulder. If you’re a strict side sleeper I’d check out one of our best mattresses for side sleepers instead.
Stomach — When I’m on my stomach, my weight feels evenly distributed, and I’m not experiencing any notable pressure. The firm support of the high-density foam base layer keeps my hips in line with my spine. This could be a good choice for stomach sleepers.
Motion Transfer
Like pressure relief, motion transfer can affect whether a mattress suits your sleep needs. This term refers to whether you’ll feel a sleeping partner’s movements if they shift around during the night. Knowing whether a mattress will help with motion isolation is extra important for folks who share a bed with a partner, child, or pet.
To test out motion transfer on the Dreamfoam Essential, I dropped a 10-pound steel ball from 4 inches, 8 inches, and 12 inches. These heights mimic various movements, from tossing and turning to getting out of bed or jumping on top of it. Next, I measured the disturbance caused by each of these drops. The bigger the lines, the bigger the disturbance!
The Dreamfoam Essential combines motion-absorbing gel memory foam with firmer poly foam, which has a quicker response to pressure. So I was curious to see which material would have the biggest impact! During the 4-inch drop, the layer of gel memory foam did a great job of absorbing motion. With the 8-inch and 12-inch drops, the steel ball went through the memory foam and hit the firmer poly foam beneath it, which didn’t absorb motion as well. Bottom line? This mattress could isolate smaller movements, but it’s likely that you’ll feel a partner getting in and out of bed.
The Dreamfoam Essential is a very affordable memory foam mattress that is available in multiple heights.
The Dreamfoam Essential is a very affordable memory foam mattress that is available in multiple heights.
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
What is the Dreamfoam Essential Mattress Made Of?
The Dreamfoam Essential is an all-foam mattress that layers body-contouring memory foam over firmer poly foam. This no-frills foam bed comes in several different sizes, which is great news for folks who are looking for a comfy RV bed. It also comes in three heights — 6 inches, 8 inches, and 10 inches. I’ll focus on the 10-inch version here.
Cover – First up is a thick, polyester cover. The thickness enhances durability, but it also makes the cover less breathable and could trap some heat. A nice perk of this cover is that its made with a nano stain finish to protect against stains and spills.
Comfort Layer – Next, is a top layer of cooling gel memory foam. Like other memory foams, this gel-infused layer offers some body-contouring, pressure relief, and sinkage. This layer of foam uses an open-cell design, which helps promote airflow throughout the bed.
Support Layer – Next is a base layer made from high-density poly foam. It has a firm feel and a quicker response to pressure than the memory foam above.
My Final Thoughts about the Dreamfoam Essential Mattress
Hooray, you’ve nearly made it through this full review! Now just one question remains: Is the Dreamfoam Essential the right mattress for you? I can’t answer that for you, but I can share an overview of my favorite and least favorite things about this bed.
The Dreamfoam Essential is a very affordable memory foam mattress that is available in multiple heights.
The Dreamfoam Essential is a very affordable memory foam mattress that is available in multiple heights.
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
My favorite things about the Dreamfoam Essential mattress
The main draw of this bed is how versatile it is. The Dreamfoam Essential comes in an extensive range of sizes and heights (including short queen, a popular RV mattress size) that make it a great fit for anyone looking for an RV, camper, or motorhome mattress that can meet more unique sizing needs. Brooklyn Bedding also offers the Dreamfoam Essential in bunk bed compatible sizes.
I also appreciate the price point of this mattress. No matter which size and height combo you choose, you should be able to get this mattress for under $1,000. If you’re looking for a high-quality mattress that won’t break the bank, this bed could do the trick for you.
My Dreamfoam Essential mattress complaints
My main complaint about this mattress is that despite the sinkage offered by the memory foam top layer, this mattress is not soft enough for side sleepers. I’d recommend these sleepers invest in a mattress topper if they decide to purchase the Dreamfoam Essential.
I also think this mattress sleeps a little bit hot, which might be an issue if you plan to use it to travel during the summer months. I’d recommend pairing it with cooling sheets if you sleep hot.
How Much Does the Dreamfoam Essential Cost?
Size and price are perhaps the two most important factors when choosing an RV mattress! Take a look at pricing for a few of the Dreamfoam Essential sizes below. Please keep in mind that the Dreamfoam Essential comes in a wide range of sizes not listed here. For full size and pricing options head click the button above to head to their site.
And remember that you can check out our Brooklyn Bedding mattress coupon page to snag a deal on this bed.
The Dreamfoam Essential is a very affordable memory foam mattress that is available in multiple heights.
The Dreamfoam Essential is a very affordable memory foam mattress that is available in multiple heights.
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
| Size | Dimensions | Price of 6″ Version | Price of 8″ Version | Price of 10″ Version |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | 39″ x 75″ | $249 | $324 | $374 |
| Twin XL | 39″ x 80″ | $324 | $374 | $424 |
| Full | 54″ x 75″ | $399 | $449 | $499 |
| Queen | 60″ x 80″ | $474 | $524 | $599 |
| King | 76″ x 80″ | $574 | $674 | $799 |
| California King | 72″ x 84″ | $574 | $674 | $799 |
*Prices listed are before discount or offer on each size.
Dreamfoam Essential Mattress Policies and FAQs
How does the Wanderlust mattress ship?
Shipping is free and your new mattress will arrive compressed in a box.
Does Brooklyn Bedding offer a trial period?
Yes, the Wanderlust comes with a 120-night sleep trial. Brooklyn Bedding asks that you test your new mattress for at least 30 days before starting the return process.
Does the Wanderlust come with a mattress warranty?
Yes, the Wanderlust comes with a 10-year warranty.
Are Brooklyn Bedding mattresses non-toxic?
Yes. Brooklyn Bedding mattresses are made with CertiPUR-US certified foams, which means they’re free of a variety of harmful chemicals and are low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
Where are Brooklyn Bedding mattresses made?
Brooklyn Bedding mattresses are made in the USA. The company is one of the few mattress companies to own their own factory, so it controls the entire production process of its products.
The Dreamfoam Essential is a very affordable memory foam mattress that is available in multiple heights.
The Dreamfoam Essential is a very affordable memory foam mattress that is available in multiple heights.
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential RV Mattress Vs
Below, I’ll compare the Dreamfoam Essential to some other popular RV mattresses.
Dreamfoam Essential RV Mattress vs Zinus Green Tea Mattress
- Like the Dreamfoam Essential, the Zinus is an all-foam mattress offered in a range of different sizes. The Dreamfoam Essential is offered in more sizes than the Zinus.
- The Zinus feels softer than the Dreamfoam Essential, and could be a better choice for side sleepers.
- Memory foam lovers should like the Zinus, which offers plenty of sinkage.
- Learn more in the full Zinus memory foam mattress review.
Dreamfoam Essential RV Mattress vs DynastyMattress CoolBreeze Mattress
- The CoolBreeze has a medium-firm feel, which some sleepers might prefer.
- Side sleepers might like the pressure-relieving feel of the CoolBreeze.
- Like the name says, this mattress sleeps pretty cool.
- Learn more about the CoolBreeze mattress, and a few other popular RV beds, in the best RV mattress roundup.
Other Models from Brooklyn Bedding
If you’re considering the Dreamfoam Essential, then you’re probably curious about other RV mattresses. So let’s take a look at how the Dreamfoam Essential compares to other mattresses from the brand RVMattress.com line!
Dreamfoam Essential RV Mattress vs Brooklyn Signature Hybrid Mattress
- In addition to regular mattress sizes, the Signature Hybrid is also offered in several RV sizes. This hybrid feels more like an innerspring mattress, so is much bouncier than the Dreamfoam Essential.
- Combination sleepers should prefer the Signature Hybrid.
- The Signature Hybrid is more expensive than the Dreamfoam Essential mattress.
- Learn more in the full Brooklyn Signature mattress review.
Dreamfoam Essential RV Mattress vs Brooklyn Aurora Hybrid Mattress
- The Brooklyn Aurora Hybrid is Brooklyn Bedding’s most popular mattress. It’s a 13.5-inch hybrid, mattress-in-a-box. But
- Brooklyn Bedding has recently started offering it in a wide range of RV sizes as well.
- The Aurora Hybrid is specifically built to sleep cool. It has a temperature neutral cover made from phase change material, and it uses the brand’s proprietary Titanflex foam to help dissipate body heat.
- The Aurora Hybrid comes in three firmness levels. The medium version is soft enough to provide adequate pressure relief for side sleepers.
- Curious about the Brooklyn Aurora? Learn more in the full Brooklyn Bedding Aurora mattress review!
Still not sold on the Dreamfoam Essential RV mattress? Take a look at how we rated it to learn more.
Logan Block
Brooklyn Wanderlust RV Mattress
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Materials
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Comfort
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Support
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Cooling
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Trial
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Warranty
