Alison Barretta

Writer | Editor | Product Reviewer

As seen in 
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About Me

When I was around 12 years old, I approached Bandai USA about a toy idea. While they couldn't make my dream of a Sailor Moon Tamagotchi a reality, they did offer me a role as their very first e-Correspondent. I reviewed new Bandai products and reported what was popular among kids my age. (Take a trip through the Wayback Machine, if you dare.)

A quarter of a century later, I'm still sharing buying advice and reviewing products for several of the world's top online publications. I'm no longer writing about Tamagotchi—sleep is my niche these days. You'll usually find me testing mattresses, tinkering with wearables, or picking experts' brains to better understand how we can hack our sleep.

However, one of the things I love about freelancing is the flexibility to explore other interests. I also specialize in reviews and roundups for consumer tech, home goods, and skincare. No matter what I'm testing or researching, you can count on me to share nothing less than my honest assessments. (Yes, I know how to E-E-A-T.)

When I'm not working, I like to keep myself fit by walking, jogging, and training martial arts. (I'm a third-degree black belt in Tang Soo Do.) I also like to try new recipes, dive into graphic novels, pretend I'm the next American Idol while singing karaoke, and dote on my adorable niece.

Sava Sound Pod review featuring a curious freelance writer trying out said sound pod

From virtual pets to virtual reality? (No, this is a futuristic sound pod.)

Writing

Looking for someone to craft thorough, honest mattress reviews? I've tested beds from Saatva, Tempur-Pedic, Nectar, and other renowned brands.Reviewing the world's best mattresses has given me a keen understanding of what consumers should look for when buying a new bed. I showcase that knowledge through curated buying guides, helping readers shop for firm mattresses, fiberglass-free mattresses, and even mattresses for sex.I also like to go beyond the reviews and explore other aspects of the mattress industry. So far, I've visited the chic and relaxing Saatva Viewing Room in my hometown and stopped by Casper Sleep Labs in Brooklyn to learn more about one of the best mattress-in-a-box brands in the biz.Mattresses aren't all I indulge in. Learn why my orthodontist approves of this Sleep Number pillow, or find out how the Oura Ring opened my eyes to some of my worst sleep habits. If you want to see something really cool, read my review of the $10,000 sound pod that can help you sleep.

My cat Alex features in most of my mattress reviews.

Of course, I don't know everything. I have a vast network of experts to help me explain who should buy blackout curtains, why hard mattresses aren't always best for back pain, and how to adjust to daylight saving time.To keep things fresh, I also write about CRM software—I can tell you everything I know about Salesforce Starterhome goods, tech, and beauty. What makes me so versatile? An open mind, a love of learning, and a willingness to find the right people to answer the questions I can't.

Testimonials

My work speaks volumes; my clients' kind words amplify it...

"Alison can always be relied upon to produce well-informed, clearly written and accurate copy. She also communicates well, follows instructions and is just a pleasure to work with overall."- Ruth Hamilton, Sleep Editor, Future Plc (TechRadar)

"Alison is a freelancer who truly makes her clients' lives easier. She wrote dozens of articles for us and always applied my feedback to future pieces, which helped us maintain momentum. She also brought new ideas to the table that improved how we reviewed software for our readers. Beyond her quality research and writing, she's a joy to work with."- Meghan Lafferty, Associate Director of Content, TechnologyAdvice (Selling Signals)