Updated at: 28-01-2023 - By: Jane

The common belief that a good mattress will set you back thousands of dollars is widely held. While this may be the case with some models, there is no shortage of beds that don’t break the bank. These mattresses are reasonably priced considering the high quality of the materials used and the excellent performance they provide.

Because online retailers typically have more competitive pricing than traditional stores, we’ve limited our best cheap mattress guide to only those that are sold through the internet. The products listed below were hand-picked by our testing team based on a variety of criteria, including but not limited to, expected durability, material quality, unique construction details, and price.

Best Cheap Mattresses

Nectar Mattress

Prices vary between $399 and $1,138

Foam is the most common material for mattresses.
Medium-Firm (6 out of 10)

The duration of the test is one year.
Guarantee Limited to the Lifetime of the Original Purchaser
Included sizes are Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, and Split King.

How to Choose a Mattress - Guide to Your Best Night's Sleep

For those who:

  • Everyone, whether they sleep on their back, side, stomach, or a combination of these positions, or none of them at all.
  • Those who shape their bodies closely while they sleep
  • Those who suffer from hip, back, and/or shoulder tension
  • Couples

Highlights:

  • Excellent pressure relief thanks to the snug fit.
  • Edge stability and vibration dampening are both above average.
  • Sleep on it for a full year and it’s guaranteed to work.

The Bottom Line:

The medium-firm (6) feel of the Nectar Mattress strikes a good balance between softness and support for an affordable all-foam option. The phase change material used in its construction helps keep the mattress at a more comfortable temperature than many other foam mattresses we’ve tried.

As far as memory foam mattresses go, the Nectar offers exceptional value for the money. In spite of this, our evaluations show that the mattress is just as good as, if not better than, many more expensive all-foam beds.

How Well It Worked

If you and your partner share a bed, consider upgrading to the Nectar because of how well it isolates movement and is so quiet. Our edge support tests showed that the Nectar performed better than other memory foam models thanks to its dense and long-lasting support core.

We conducted research and found that those who sleep on their side or back fared best on the Nectar. Our heaviest test subjects, those who weighed at least 130 pounds, tended to favor these positions.

The Components Used

The Nectar Mattress is made up of a thick polyfoam base layered with memory foam. Although it has a medium firm (6) feel, we found that the mattress molded to our bodies in a way that reduced pressure points along the spine. In order to keep you from overheating while you sleep, phase change material has been infused into the top layer of the foam mattress.

The 48 contiguous states are included in the free shipping offer. Additionally, Nectar provides a longer-than-average 365-night sleep trial for customers to try out the mattress, as well as a lifetime warranty against structural defects.

DreamCloud Mattress

Between $799 and $1,499

Hybrid Mattress
The Medium-Firmness Scale (6-point scale)

Duration of the Trial Period is One Full Year (30 Night Minimum).
Lifetime Limited Warranty.
All standard US and International sizes including Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King

Target Audience:

  • Smokers in bed
  • Individuals who typically find hybrids too rigid or firm
  • Customers who prefer to try out a bed before buying it

Highlights:

  • Style and comfort in one, hybrid form, at a reasonable cost
  • The cashmere-blend cover and the coil layer, which maintains a constant airflow, do an excellent job of maintaining a comfortable internal temperature
  • Every purchase is backed by a full year of sleep testing, or 365 nights.

So, in conclusion:

In comparison to other mattresses we’ve tried, the DreamCloud ranks near the middle. It’s a genuine medium firm, with coils that provide plenty of support and foam layers that provide plenty of cushioning.

The DreamCloud Mattress stands out because of its relatively low price compared to other hybrid mattresses we have tested. All of our weight and position groups found the mattress to be comfortable thanks to its thick foam layers, supportive coil system, and incredibly plush cover. Although it is less expensive than many other hybrids we have researched.

How Well It Worked

The thick comfort system that gives the DreamCloud its plush surface despite its medium firm feel makes it a great choice if you’re looking for a mattress that offers a good compromise between contouring and support. When our testers got on and off the mattress, they didn’t feel like they were sinking in because the coils had reinforced the edges. When sleeping with a partner, both of you can enjoy the full comfort of the bed.

During our temperature-neutral testing, the DreamCloud performed exceptionally well. The cashmere-blend cover breathes well, and the coils create sufficient air flow to keep things cool inside. Our side-sleepers who ranged in weight from 130 to 230 pounds gave us the highest marks in our performance tests.

Consistency of the Materials

Quilted into the cover of the mattress is a layer of adaptive polyfoam, followed by a layer of memory foam. Despite the DreamCloud’s medium firmness rating (6), we found its surface to be pleasantly plush thanks to the numerous layers that make up its construction. Between the outermost layers and the structural foam core is a transitional layer. Our heaviest tester weighed 230 lbs, and they still didn’t sink too far thanks to this layer.

The support core is made up of a pocketed coil system and a high-density polyfoam base layer, giving you plenty of pushback and keeping you from sinking too far. A cashmere-blend cover wraps around the entire mattress.

If you reside within the 48 contiguous states, the DreamCloud Mattress can be shipped to you for free via our ground service. The company offers a 365-night sleep trial, making it one of the longest in the online mattress industry. If you decide to keep your DreamCloud, you’ll be protected against manufacturing flaws for as long as you own the mattress.

Layla Mattress

Prices vary between $749 and $1,249

Foam is a common material for mattresses.
Medium-Softness (4), Firmness (7)

The duration of the trial is 120 hours.
This Limited Lifetime Warranty Is Backed For The Rest Of Your Life
Available in Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and Cal King

To whom it will be of greatest benefit:

  • People of all shapes, sizes, and sleeping arrangements
  • Individuals who have fluctuating preferences regarding firmness
  • Those who are chronically warm in bed

Highlights:

  • The firmness can be adjusted by simply flipping the device’s design.
  • The mattress is cooled by copper-infused memory foam.
  • Mattress that can be used for multiple purposes and costs less than the competition.

In conclusion:

The Layla Mattress is an excellent option if you’re looking for a versatile mattress due to its high-quality materials and two different feels. The ability to effortlessly switch between surfaces is made possible by the compact and light design.

The Layla Mattress is a flippable all-foam model that combines copper-infused memory foam comfort layers with polyfoam. We put it through its paces and discovered that each side has a distinctly different feel in terms of firmness, so there’s a good chance you’ll find one that suits your preferences.

Performance Analysis

The copper infusion in the memory foam not only provides deep cradling and pressure relief, but also helps draw some excess heat away from the body, as noted by our testers. The cover is breathable thanks to the combination of polyester, viscose, and spandex, and it also features a heat-responsive Thermo-Gel cooling agent that is sewn right into the fabric. Because of these cooling features, the mattress performed better in our temperature neutrality tests.

The Layla Mattress was well-liked by our reviewers of varying sizes and shapes due to its adaptability. People weighing less than 130 pounds tended to feel most comfortable on the medium soft side, while those weighing more than 130 pounds favored the firmer side.

The Stuff That It’s Made Of

Based on our firmness scale of 1-10, our team rated one side of the mattress as medium soft (4), while the other side is firm (7). The medium soft side features three inches of copper-infused memory foam on top of two inches of zoned polyfoam to provide localized, individualized support. A thick layer of memory foam infused with copper gives the firm side a firmer feel. Located in the middle of both padding systems is a central support core made of high-density foam.

The Layla Mattress is reasonably priced for an all-foam model. You have 120 nights to try out the mattress risk-free and get your money back if you’re not satisfied. There is a lifetime guarantee attached to the mattress if you choose to keep it.

Leesa Studio

Prices vary between $549 and $999.

Foam is a common material for mattresses.
Medium-Firm (6 out of 10)

100-Night Minimum Trial with 30-Night Minimum Requirement
Limited 10-Year Warranty
Includes Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King

For those who:

  • Both side and back sleepers
  • Those who have prominent pressure points
  • Slumbering Partners

Highlights:

  • The top layer of memory foam molds to your body to relieve stress.
  • The foam construction is very resilient, dampening both vibration and sound.
  • Increased firmness provides more structural stability than is typical.

Final Thoughts:

In spite of being made entirely of foam, Leesa’s Studio model manages to feel very sturdy and firm. Those of our testers weighing more than 130 pounds typically have trouble sleeping on foam beds, but this one was a big hit with side and back sleepers.

When it comes to memory foam mattresses, the Leesa Studio is a great option because it’s both reasonably priced and functional. The mattress’s all-foam construction and genuine medium firm (6) feel should be comfortable for a wide variety of sleepers, so it’s a good choice for visitors and those who switch sleeping positions.

Just How Well It Worked

The Studio is a great option for side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds due to its relatively firm all-foam construction. From our experiments, we know that these sleepers will receive sufficient contouring without sinking too deeply.

If you wake up with aches and pains, this mattress is a good option because the adaptive foam layers relieved pressure well during our tests. It’s also a great place for couples. You and your partner shouldn’t be disturbed by each other’s repositioning thanks to the three foam layers’ ability to absorb most movement transfer and noise.

Description of the Materials Used

A layer of memory foam provides moderate cushioning and pressure point relief at the base of the Studio mattress. The next layer is a transitional polyfoam layer that assists in dispersing your body weight across the bed. High-density polyfoam is used in the support core to reinforce the sleeping surface and limit sinkage. The foam filling is protected by a twill cover made from a polyester blend. This material is both comfortable and long-lasting, and it features Leesa’s signature stripes for a stylish touch. The Studio is a medium-height bed, coming in at 10 inches in height.

The Leesa Studio is already reasonably priced, but now all customers in the United States can take advantage of free shipping thanks to a new partnership with Amazon. After the initial break-in period of 30 nights, customers have the option of returning their mattress for a full refund at any time during the included 100-night sleep trial. The mattress comes with a 10-year warranty against structural defects if you decide to keep it.

Bear Original

Between $748 and $1,248

Type of Mattress: Foam
Consistency: Very Consistently Firm (7)

Duration of the Trial: 120 Nights (including a 30-Night “break-in”)
Guarantee: Permanent guarantee
Sizes available include: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King

Who should use it most effectively:

  • People who sleep on their sides or backs
  • Consumers looking for a cooler foam mattress
  • Athletes and people whose jobs require them to be physically active

Highlights:

  • Superior firmness for a foam mattress.
  • The Celliant cover is designed to aid in muscle recuperation.
  • Built with a combination of foams for both comfort and durability.

Final Thoughts:

The Bear Original’s firmer surface is noticeably more supportive than that of the other foam beds we tested. Back and stomach sleepers alike will appreciate the additional support and spinal cradling provided by this firmness level.

In comparison to other foam models we’ve tested, the Bear Original’s firmness level is higher. If you need extra reinforcement to relieve back pain, this is a good option because of the traditional foam contouring in addition to the added support.

Efficiency Rating

The Bear Original, like many other foam mattresses, scored high marks from our side-sleeping reviewers. We found that the bed has good contouring to relieve pressure on the hips and shoulders, two areas that tend to hurt after extended backward and forward bending. Our back-sleeping testers, who need a firm surface to support their lumbar area and padding to cradle their spine, also gave this mattress high marks for its above-average firmness.

Thanks to the foam layers’ high performance in our motion isolation tests, you can share a bed with your partner without being disturbed by their snoring or yours. If you’re a warm sleeper who gets too hot on foam mattresses, you might like this bed because the Celliant fabric is made to keep you cool while you snooze.

Substances Used in Its Construction

This 10-inch thick, firm (a 7) mattress has a low profile. The contouring support typical of foam mattresses is provided by a comfort layer of memory foam. A high-density foam support core provides the bed with a steady foundation, and a firmer polyfoam transition layer provides some responsiveness.

The mattress is protected by a cover made from Celliant fabric. The infrared energy from your body is harnessed by this specially designed material and returned to you. The goal of the procedure is to speed up the healing process by increasing blood flow and oxygen levels to the muscle tissue.

If you live within the 48 contiguous states, shipping is on the company Bear. You can try out the mattress risk-free for an entire year by taking advantage of the included 120-night sleep trial. It comes with a lifetime guarantee if you decide to keep the bed.

Emma Original Mattress

Pricing starts at $795 and goes up to $1,595

Foam Mattress
Medium Tightness (a 5)

Duration of the Test: One Year and One Night
Limited 10-Year Warranty
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King sizes available.

Who can benefit the most:

  • Sleeping partners who have contrasting needs for rest
  • Patients suffering from painful pressure points
  • Persons whose sleep is easily disrupted by their bedmates’ motions

Highlights:

  • An abundance of pressure relief is produced by the all-foam construction.
  • The zoned memory foam design provides uniform cushioning and shape retention.
  • Reduced heat retention is achieved with the aid of cooling features.

The Bottom Line

We found the Emma Original to be one of the best memory foam beds for the money. Strong support counteracts the excellent padding.

Although it’s made entirely of foam, the Emma Original has a more sophisticated design than many other foam mattresses on the market. We think this bed is a good option for couples who share a bed but have different sleeping preferences because of its moderate level of contouring and sufficient support.

Analysis of Results

The thick foam layers earned this mattress high marks from our pressure relief experts. Test subjects reported minimal motion transfer between beds thanks to the foam’s excellent motion isolation properties. The Emma’s medium (5) firmness level is ideal for side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds. The soft foam layers will provide excellent cradling for those who suffer from painful pressure points in the lower back, shoulders, and hips. There was a lack of support in the lab for people weighing more than 230 pounds, suggesting that these sleepers would benefit from a firmer mattress.

Materials Used

The Emma starts with a layer of memory foam, which conforms to the shape of the sleeper’s body. You’ll find another memory foam layer below, and this one is sectioned off into three zones to provide different levels of support and pressure relief to various parts of your body. Because of the potential for overheating in all-foam mattresses, the support core is made of convoluted high-density foam. Edge sagging is prevented by reinforcing the perimeter.

You have an entire year to decide if the Emma Original is the right bed for you with its 365-night sleep trial. If you choose to keep the mattress, the company will give you a 10-year warranty on it. We offer free shipping within the 48 contiguous states.

The 4 Best Cheap Mattresses (Under $500) 2022 | Reviews by Wirecutter

Silk & Snow Hybrid

Approximately $600 – $900

Crossbreed Mattresses
Medium-Firm (6 out of 10)

Duration of the Trial: 100 Nights (30 Night Minimum)
Limited Warranty of Fifteen Years
All standard US and International sizes including Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King

To whom it will be of greatest benefit:

  • Persons weighing more than 130 pounds who sleep
  • The Side Sleepers
  • Those who get too hot while sleeping

Highlights:

  • Good combination of softness and firmness
  • Edges that are reinforced for strength
  • A foam cushion on top of a zoned coil support system.

In conclusion:

The Silk & Snow Hybrid was a huge hit with the hot sleepers on our testing team. The gel infusions and breathable coil support core of the mattress worked together to maintain a cool sleeping environment.

The Silk & Snow Hybrid, which we rated as a medium-firm (6), is offered for a price that is competitive with other hybrid models we’ve tested that are of a similar quality and construction. Although all of our test subjects benefited from the bed’s moderate firmness, those who weighed more than 130 pounds found the support to be especially welcome.

the Results

Based on our research, the coil support core and foam comfort system work together to provide an ideal level of softness and support for side sleepers. Our regular users of this position need support in the shoulders and hips to prevent pain, but not so much that they sink too far. The coil system provided good airflow throughout the mattress, and the cooling gel infusions in the foam should make this a good choice if you tend to sleep hot.

How It’s Constructed

The first layer of the mattress is made up of quilted polyfoam, and then a deeper layer of memory foam. This support system molds to your body and cushions any pressure points. A pocketed coil system underneath offers zoned support for your body’s weight distribution while you sleep. If you have trouble getting in and out of bed or like to sleep near the edge of your mattress, you will appreciate the firm foam encasement we discovered to be an excellent edge support feature of this mattress.

In the 48 contiguous states and 10 Canadian provinces, shipping is on the house at Silk & Snow. There is a 15-year guarantee on the mattress and a 100-night test period during which you can try it out. After sleeping in the bed for 30 nights, you can send it back and get a full refund.

Siena Memory Foam Mattress

Prices vary between $499 and $799

Foam Mattresses.
Medium-Firm (6 out of 10)

Duration of the Trial: 180 Nights
Ten Year Guarantee.
Available in Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King sizes.

For those who:

  • Individuals up to 230 pounds in weight
  • For those who prefer to sleep on their sides or backs
  • Consumers who need more time to try out their new bed

Highlights:

  • Medium firmness all-foam construction provides uniform contouring and more than adequate support.
  • Co-sleepers won’t be woken up by their bedmates’ movements thanks to the layers of foam between them.
  • Price points that are easily affordable, and a free, six-month trial period

Simply put:

The Siena stands out from other memory foam mattresses in this price range due to its firmer texture and above-average support. Normally, our heaviest testers (130 pounds and up) sink too much into cheap foam beds, but this wasn’t the case here.

It’s not easy to find a suitable mattress for a guest bedroom, as people have varying preferences when it comes to the level of firmness and support they require. Our research suggests that the Siena Memory Foam Mattress is a safe bet for most of your overnight guests, though you may not be able to please everyone. You shouldn’t sink too much into this medium firm (6) foam mattress if you weigh up to 230 pounds. In addition, our tests revealed that the mattress successfully isolated motion, relieved pressure, and provided a decent sense of stability all around the bed’s borders.

Just How Well It Worked

For the most part, memory foam mattresses don’t fare as well as the Siena did in our tests. Mattress testers weighing up to 230 pounds found that they did not sink as much as they would have on a softer, thicker all-foam model, thanks to the mattress’s medium firmness and mid-range profile, which provide above-average support. We also found that the Siena performed very well on our motion isolation tests, and that only a small percentage of our sleep testers felt any sort of painful pressure while testing.

The Siena performed best for side sleepers weighing between 130 and 230 pounds, as well as back and stomach sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds, in our tests. However, sleepers of varying heights, ages, and body types all thought the mattress was good or excellent.

How It’s Constructed

The Siena has a polyfoam transition layer and an adaptable memory foam comfort layer. These materials support your body in a flat, comfortable position. The top surface has cooling gel infused into it to help reduce body heat while you sleep. The firmer texture of this mattress also made it easy to move around on during our evaluations.

High-density polyfoam is used for the Siena’s core support. This section serves to maintain the bed’s overall stability. When compared to other memory foam beds, we experienced significantly less sinkage along the bed’s perimeter on this one. The entire bed is wrapped in a knit polyester cover. The Siena is a medium-profile vehicle, coming in at a thickness of 10 inches.

The Siena Memory Foam Mattress is already competitively priced, but now you can get it shipped to your door for free if you live within the 48 contiguous states! You’ll have 180 nights to try out the mattress and determine if it’s the right choice for you at no extra cost. A 10-year structural warranty from the manufacturer is included in the purchase price in case you decide to keep it.

Dynasty CoolBreeze

From $360 to $815

All-foam mattresses are the best option.
The levels of firmness are: Medium (5), Medium-Firm (6), and Firm (8).

120-Night Trial (Upon Request of 30 Nights)
Limited 30-Year Warranty
Sizes:

Which users will benefit the most:

  • People who sleep on their sides and backs
  • Those who sleep best on a mattress that offers both comfort and support
  • Those who suffer from pressure point problems
  • Couples

Highlights:

  • the right amount of shaping and holding together
  • Superior inertial isolation
  • Term of Limited Warranty: 30 Years

In conclusion:

The Dynasty CoolBreeze is an elegantly crafted mattress that uses only the finest components. While all three options offer respectable support for an all-foam mattress, our stomach-sleeping testers unanimously agreed that only the firmest setting provided the most satisfying experience.

The CoolBreeze from Dynasty Mattress is much cheaper than many other memory foam mattresses we’ve tested despite its high-end construction and materials. If you sleep on your back and value both contouring and responsiveness, the hybrid construction we put through our paces proves to be the best option.

Results Obtained

The side sleepers on our testing team enjoyed the supportive feel and the way the memory foam layer cradled their shoulders and hips. According to our research, side sleepers between the weights of 130 and 230 pounds, as well as back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds, will find the mattress to be the most comfortable.

The CoolBreeze also passed with flying colors in terms of its performance in our motion isolation tests and its complete lack of noise production under load. Because of these features, the mattress is an excellent choice for couples whose sleep is frequently interrupted by their partner’s tossing and turning. In addition, the cover is removable and washable in a washing machine.

Materials Used in Construction

The CoolBreeze has a pressure-relieving memory foam comfort layer. The second layer of memory foam offers even more support and comfort for your back. The responsive feel of the latex layers keeps you from sinking too far into the mattress.

The high-density polyfoam foundation is designed to specifically alleviate pressure on the hips and shoulders. Our bodies stayed comfortably cool thanks to the cover’s cotton-polyester blend. Mattresses can be found in medium (level 5), medium-firm (level 6), and firm (level 8) firmness options.

The Dynasty CoolBreeze comes with a 120-night sleep trial and includes two free pillows with every purchase. There is a 10-year guarantee on the mattress that covers manufacturing flaws.

Allswell Mattress

From $279 to $539

Hybrid Bed Mattresses
Stability: Stable (7)

Duration of the Test: 100 Nights
Limited 10-Year Warranty
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King

Who can benefit from it the most:

  • Both back and stomach sleepers
  • Individuals weighing at least 130 lbs
  • Smokers in bed

Highlights:

  • Superior coil system and hybrid structure for support.
  • Copper and graphite added to memory foam make for a cool night’s sleep.
  • Superbly reasonable cost

Briefly Summarizing

The Allswell is your best bet if you want a foam/hybrid with a firmer feel. This hybrid bed’s top is soft and supportive enough to last for a long time.

The Allswell Mattress, or just The Allswell, is an affordable hybrid option that provides excellent comfort and spinal alignment. Most sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds, particularly those who sleep on their backs or stomachs, should find a mattress with a firm (7) feel to be comfortable.

How Effective It Was

In theory, this surface should be cooler than other foam hybrids because of the cooling materials used in the comfort layer. The memory foam in the comfort layer and the quilted cover worked together to make the surface feel soft and supple to our testers. Tests showed that the mattress’s coil support core offered great overall stability, and that extra-thick coils around the sides made us feel safe even when sleeping close to the edge or getting in and out of bed. The coils also aid in consistent air flow, which keeps the mattress’s core at a comfortable temperature. Testers across the board appreciated the pleasant combination of softness and firmness, though back sleepers saw the most improvement.

Materials Used

Polyfoam is quilted into the cover of the Allswell. It starts with a thick coil base made of pocketed coils, then a comfort layer of memory foam infused with copper and graphite to reduce heat retention. Our testers appreciated the reinforced edges, which allowed them to lie closer to the sides without experiencing sagging. The Allswell is a standout among hybrids because of its low price.

All customers within the 48 contiguous states receive free ground shipping. The manufacturer stands by this mattress with both a 100-night trial period and a 10-year guarantee.

Brooklyn Bedding Dreamfoam Essential

Price: $349

Foam mattresses are the most common.
Hardness scale: 4 (very soft), 5 (moderately soft), 6 (medium firm), 7 (firm), 8 (very firm).

Duration of the Trial: 120 Nights (30 Night Minimum)
Term of Limited Warranty: 10 Years
Include RV, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King.

For those who:

  • Those on a tighter spending cap
  • sufferers of pressure points while sleeping
  • Those who find that memory foam “hug[s]” them the most

Highlights:

  • The use of only foam in the construction increases comfort.
  • There are a variety of profiles to choose from, each with its own level of firmness.

In conclusion

The Dreamfoam Essential provides the perfect amount of traditional foam contouring. There are many different models available, so you can find one with the perfect amount of padding.

Dreamfoam Essential, made by Brooklyn Bedding, is a classic memory foam mattress at a low, low price. The bed comes in a variety of different profiles, with the thicker models costing more. However, even the tallest profile comes in at a reasonable price, making this a great choice for those on a tight budget who are interested in purchasing a foam mattress.

Evaluate Its Efficiency

The height of the mattress can be adjusted between 6 and 14 inches. Thinner models were found to be noticeably firmer than thicker models in our tests. However, all models conform closely to your body so you will receive some pressure relief regardless of which thickness you choose. Mattresses come in a wide variety of firmness settings, from medium soft (4) on the 14-inch to firm (8) on the 6-inch.

Tests showed that mattresses with a thickness between 12 and 14 inches were the most agreeable for side sleepers. Beds that deeply contour to support the shoulders and hips are ideal for this sleeping position. Those under 130 pounds who slept on their backs found the thicker models to provide the ideal combination of pressure relief and support. The plush layers may not be able to support sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds, so the higher profiles are not recommended. Because of its thick construction, the 14-inch model is best for light sleepers (those weighing less than 130 pounds) and those who require a lot of pressure relief.

The 6- and 8-inch mattresses were the most agreeable for stomach sleepers weighing between 130 and 230, as their thinner and firmer construction provided the necessary support. These beds were great for stomach sleepers, but they were too firm for side and back sleepers on our team.

Materials Used

The main material of the Dreamfoam Essential is foam. Each of the 6- and 8-inch variants features a high-density polyfoam support center and a 2-inch thick memory foam comfort layer. The 10-inch version is made up of the same materials, but the memory foam layer is thicker to increase comfort. Adding a third polyfoam layer to the 12- and 14-inch models improves their contouring and softness.

Dreamfoam offers a 120-night sleep trial so that you can try out the mattress in the comfort of your own home before making a final purchase decision. In addition, you’ll have the security of a 10-year guarantee. If you live in the 48 contiguous states, shipping is on the house.

How to Shop for a Cheap Mattress

Although “mattress in a box” or “bed in a box” mattresses sold online may be less expensive than traditional brick-and-mortar stores, they still provide the same high-quality materials, comfortable designs, and long-lasting construction as their more expensive counterparts. Hundreds of manufacturers and retailers compete for your business today.

Purchasing a low-cost mattress online is a simple task. Prior to making a purchase, it is recommended to do some preliminary research on reasonably priced mattress options by comparing different brands and models. Examine the materials and specifications of your remaining options to determine which one provides the optimal level of firmness, comfort, and support. Select the size you need from the mattress’s product page, then continue with the checkout process.

Coupons and discounts can be found on the brand’s website, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars off the retail price of the bed. President’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Veteran’s Day are just a few of the holidays where many popular online retailers host sales events. Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales are commonplace after Thanksgiving. Amazon Prime Day (July 15) is another popular shopping holiday.

Consumers looking for an affordable mattress should consider a number of factors before making a purchase. The marketing for some mattress lines is deceptive, promising benefits like “universal comfort” and “unlimited durability” that do not exist. Do your homework on the following features instead of focusing on misleading descriptions.

Important Mattress Considerations

Consumers looking for an affordable mattress should consider a number of factors before making a purchase. Some mattress manufacturers use deceptive advertising language, claiming their products offer benefits like “universal comfort” and “unlimited durability” when they do not. Read up on the following features instead of focusing on misleading ones.

  • There are a number of variables that go into determining the final cost of a mattress, such as the type, quality of materials, special features, and the brand. Bear in mind that a low price does not automatically translate to a low quality mattress. When it comes to comfort, support, and overall quality, many of the most affordable mattress-in-a-box models we’ve tested are on par with, if not better than, their more expensive counterparts.
  • How you sleep affects the requirements you have of your mattress. The majority of people who sleep on their side prefer mattresses that provide extra support for their hips and shoulders, help keep their spine in a neutral position, and alleviate pressure points all over their body. Both back and stomach sleepers benefit from extra torso support, but contouring, especially in the lower back area, is essential.
  • Different types of mattresses have various benefits. Beds made of foam or latex can mold to your body’s shape, providing spinal support and relieving pressure elsewhere in the body. Innerspring and hybrid mattresses are superior in comfort, support, and breathability. Because of the varying degrees of firmness that can be achieved with different combinations of air chambers, airbeds are versatile and can be used by people of varying sizes and shapes.
  • The degree to which a mattress conforms to the shape of the sleeper is known as its “contouring” or “conformative” quality. Our pressure relief and motion isolation tests have consistently found that beds with deep contouring provide the most relief to sleepers. Those who weigh more will find that mattresses with less conforming feel more supportive and sink less at the edges. Many people find that moderately sculpted faces provide the best combination of natural look and wearability.
  • Some beds provide more comfort and support than others because of the high quality of their materials. For example, when compared to beds we’ve tested with lower-density foams, high-density memory foam provides superior body conforming and more motion isolation. Other options include zoned coils, which reinforce the edges and give you more support, and organic/natural latex, which is both supportive and breathable.
  • Level of Firmness: 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest on our scale of 1-10. Even though softer mattresses performed better in our pressure relief tests, they sagged too much when tested with heavier people. When it comes to support and conforming properties, firmer mattresses are superior, but they may be too hard and dense for our lighter testers. Modern mattresses typically range in firmness from about a 3 (very soft) to an 8 (very firm).
  • Mattresses are designed to relieve pressure by cushioning key body areas like the shoulders and hips, all while supporting your spine in a neutral position and distributing your weight evenly. Generally speaking, the best pressure relief can be found in latex, hybrid, or foam mattresses with more substantial comfort layers.
  • Some mattresses don’t have enough perimeter support, so if you sit on the side of the bed, you might sink in. This may make it more challenging to get in and out of bed. We found that hybrids and innersprings, with their thick coil systems, provided the best edge support, while all-latex and foam beds sank the most.

Finally, consider value. Although it’s tempting to buy a cheap mattress based solely on its price tag, you should consider whether or not it’s a good idea to spend your money on a model that will stop being comfortable after only a few years. Check out our Best Mattresses for the Money guide if you’re looking for recommendations on reasonably priced mattresses that won’t let you down in the long run.

What Can Affect the Price of a Mattress?

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Some mattress features and qualities can significantly increase the retail price. Among them are the following:

  • Memory foam with a high density is heavy. The standard unit of measurement is the PCF, or pounds per cubic foot. Memory foam with a density of at least 5.5 PCF is considered high-density. This fabric is extremely long-lasting and won’t lose its form easily. Our motion isolation tests show that it does a fantastic job of sculpting the body. High-density memory foam is commonly used in the construction of the more expensive memory foam and hybrid mattresses we evaluate. Most budget mattress-in-a-box options feature memory foam with a density of 4 PCF or less, with some also featuring a density range of 4 PCF to 5.5 PCF.
  • Latex, a natural and organic material, is made from the sap of the rubber tree. When working with organic and natural latex, very few chemicals are used in the processing. Our rigorous testing has revealed that these materials are both long-lasting and breathable, while also being surprisingly responsive. Mattresses with layers of organic or natural latex typically cost $1,600 or more. Blended or synthetic latex may be cheaper, but we’ve found that the models made with them don’t offer the same level of comfort or durability as their natural latex counterparts.
  • Materials that promote a cooler sleeping surface may be infused into the cover and/or comfort layer. Metals like copper are just one example. The copper-infused foam mattresses we tested performed well in dissipating surface heat because of the material’s inherent conductivity. Even if you sleep hot, the surface of some mattresses infused with phase-change material will stay cool all night long.
  • Many low-priced mattresses use zoned coil systems, which have a different gauge (or thickness) in different parts of the mattress. You can find softer support from thinner coils in the center of a zoned coil system, while the thicker coils reinforce the perimeter. In our experience, mattresses with zoned coils have the best balance of edge support and sleeper comfort. While many are out of reach, there are some excellent options at more reasonable costs.

This is by no means an exhaustive list. Always check the mattress’s specifications to determine why it costs what it does. Although the above-mentioned features may contribute to the price, the bed may be too expensive for some consumers.

Shipping, Returns, and Warranties

Before buying a new bed, especially online, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the company’s shipping, return, and warranty policies. These guidelines are typically consistent between manufacturers, but reading the fine print can help you avoid unexpected costs. Shipping, returns, and guarantees on your new mattress are all covered in this section.

Shipping

The majority of online retailers provide free ground shipping to addresses within the 48 contiguous states. There are even those that offer free delivery to Canada, Alaska, and/or Hawaii. The typical time for a standard ground shipment to reach its destination is two weeks. It’s possible to pay extra for faster shipping if you need your package quickly and standard shipping will take too long. Thirdly, White Glove delivery might be an option. This includes set up in your home and disposal of your old mattress, but there is typically a longer wait time of two to three weeks involved.

Pricing: Ground shipping within the 48 contiguous states is always free. It’s possible that customers in Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, and other non-contiguous locations who are eligible for delivery will pay anywhere from $100 to $600 for mattress shipping. Expedited shipping costs more than standard shipping, but usually no more than $50. Don’t be surprised if you have to shell out at least $150 for White Glove delivery, which includes set-up and disposal of your old mattress and furniture.

The mattress is machine-pressed, wrapped in plastic, and delivered in a small box for standard ground shipping. The package will be left at your door without requiring a signature from you or the courier. Express mail is subject to the same constraints. Mattresses are not compressed for shipping when delivered by White Glove couriers, who use trucks. White Glove deliveries typically require a signature upon receipt, so an adult (18 ) must be home to sign for the packages.

Returns

A lot of online mattress stores will let you try out a bed for a certain amount of time (typically 100 nights) before making a final decision about whether to keep the bed, exchange it for a different model, or return it for a refund. Studies on the effects of sleep typically last for a year or more, though the minimum number of nights required is 90. Some mattresses require a “break-in” period of at least 30 nights before they can be returned for a full refund. Give the mattress at least a week for your body to adjust before you make a final decision.

Pricing: During the sleep trial period, most online mattress brands offer free returns. Typically, the company will dispatch couriers to your home to collect the mattress before transporting it for recycling or donation. It’s also possible that you’ll have to take care of the mattress’s disposal or donation on your own. Mattresses that are returned are never used again. While some retailers may charge a fee for returns, typically it is less than $100.

It may take up to 30 days for the company to process the return of a mattress and issue a refund to the original form of payment. Companies may ask for photographic evidence of mattress recycling or donation if you are asked to do so.

During the time of the sleep trial, you may be able to exchange your mattress for a different model, a different size, or both. If you wish to exchange your item for a more expensive model, you will be responsible for the price difference, while a partial refund will be issued if you choose to exchange for a less expensive model.

Warranties

Longevity: A manufacturer’s warranty protecting against faulty workmanship or materials is included with every mattress. Mattresses typically come with a 10-year warranty, though longer options of 15, 20, and 25 years are also available. The mattress is covered by the “lifetime” warranty as long as the original owner keeps it.

Price: If the warranty is non-prorated, the owner is not responsible for the cost of repairs or replacements for defective mattresses; however, you may be responsible for the cost of shipping the mattress back to the manufacturer for inspection.

If the warranty is prorated, you’ll have to pay a fraction of the full price to get a new mattress that doesn’t have the problem. As a rule, this figure goes up each year by the same amount. As an illustration, if a mattress has a 20-year warranty, but only the first 10 years are covered without any deductions, then in the 11th year the owner will be responsible for paying 55% of the original price (or 5% per year of ownership) to get a new one. Sixty percent is due in Year 12. As the warranty nears its end, this price hike will persist.

Most mattress guarantees will specify which issues are not your responsibility and which ones are, in this case. These inspections typically involve the measurement of sagging depths or other surface indentations that may indicate a defect. Physical flaws in the mattress that lead to premature deterioration, as well as manufacturing flaws with the cover, may also be considered defects. Damage to the structure, however, that is the result of improper construction or negligent treatment by the owner, is never compensated for. Furthermore, the owner’s changing tastes in mattresses are not covered by the warranty.

Additional Mattress Costs

The price of a new bed doesn’t just include the mattress itself but also things like shipping, returns, and warranties. When making your mattress purchase, please think about the following accessories.

  • Box springs, solid wood or metal slat systems, adjustable bases, and platform beds are all examples of bed frames and foundations that can be used to properly hold a mattress. These must be sized appropriately for the mattress. A mattress’s support structure, like the maximum distance between slats or the minimum number of legs, may be specified as part of the warranty terms.
  • White Glove Delivery: If you can’t or don’t want to assemble your mattress, it may be worth it to spring for this service. Full assembly is included in this delivery service, and it can usually be done in the room of your choice. Old mattress disposal may be included in the service at no extra cost or for a small fee. Depending on the manufacturer, the cost of white glove delivery can range from $100 to $600.
  • Because third-party ground couriers (like FedEx and USPS) handle standard shipments, the option to have an old mattress removed is not available. White Glove delivery is the standard option and should be chosen in almost all cases. Delivery with White Glove service and disposal of your old mattress typically costs $150 or more, depending on the brand.

The Best Types of Budget Mattresses

There are currently five main types of mattresses on the market: hybrids, innersprings, latex, airbeds, and foam mattresses. The general form and materials used in each of these classes are fairly uniform. However, every model presents a different design, and there are pronounced distinctions between the various categories of mattresses. Next, we’ll have a closer look at each category of mattresses.

Hybrid

Comfort layers of memory foam or latex surround a support core of pocketed coils in a hybrid mattress, which is a subset of the larger innerspring category. While both softer and firmer hybrids exist, our testing has shown that the majority of models sit somewhere in the middle.

Hybrid mattresses strike a nice balance between the softness, shapeability, and pressure relief of all-foam and latex models, and the firmness, cooling, and airflow of innersprings. This is why many people think hybrids offer the best all-around comfort. While most hybrids cost between $1,600 and $2,000, we were able to find many affordable options.

Ultimate Mattress Buying Guide | Sleep Authority

Innerspring

Innersprings are the traditional (and most affordable) design for mattresses, and they feature foam comfort layers atop support cores of open bonnell, offset, or continuous wire coils. The innersprings are described as moderately firm and highly responsive by our evaluators, making for an exceptionally springy surface.

Innerspring coil layers promote robust air circulation, resulting in consistent cooling. The airflow within the mattress will help maintain a consistent temperature, allowing you to sleep soundly no matter what the outside conditions are like. This is because most innersprings conform very little, resulting in less sinking and more surface cooling for the test subjects. The typical cost of an innerspring mattress is between $900 and $1100.

Latex

Rubber tree sap, or latex, has been used for centuries as a material due to its inherent strength and resilience. The average lifespan of a latex mattress is much longer than that of any other type of bed. Due to the nature of the material, the surface is highly interactive. The breathable nature of latex helped it achieve above-average results in our tests of temperature neutrality.

Sensitive Pressure Reduction Because of its ability to mold to the shape of the body, latex provides comfort even under intense pressure. The responsiveness of the material, however, keeps you from sinking too far. As a result, those of our sleep testers who experience pressure points but don’t like the deep body cradle foam provides often opt for latex beds. The typical cost of a latex mattress is between $1,600 and $2,000, but more affordable models can be found for between $800 and $1,200.

Airbed

To put it simply, airbeds are mattresses that have inflatable chambers at their structural cores and are inflated by a motor. The firmness of the mattress can be modified by adding or releasing air from these compartments. Some air mattresses have as many as eight separate chambers, and others have the more common two. The firmness of an air mattress can be adjusted independently on each side.

Unparalleled Personalization: Many contemporary airbeds can be set to any desired level of softness or firmness. This is helpful if you and your partner have different preferences in terms of firmness and if you enjoy varying degrees of firmness from night to night. We have been unable to locate any reasonably priced airbeds. A queen-sized bed will set you back at least $2,000, and some cost as much as $3,000.

Foam

An optional polyfoam or memory foam comfort layer is often included in a foam mattress’ construction. Those with both types of foam in the padding for maximum comfort are called “mixed-foam” versions. High-density polyfoam is always used for the support core, and dense transition layers may be added for even more stability for the sleeper.

Memory foam has been shown to provide excellent contouring, relieving pressure in all the right places while also distributing weight evenly and supporting the spine. Polyfoam conforms as well, though to a lesser degree. Mattresses made of foam tend to be inexpensive. While most models can be found for between $900 and $1,200, many foam beds can be had for $800 or less.

Classification of MattressesTime spent alive on averageStandard Cost
Innerspring5-ish to 7-ish$900-$1,100
FoamAge range: 6/7$900-$1,200
HybridBetween the ages of 6 and 7$1,600-$2,000
LatexAt least 8 years have passed$1,600-$2,000
AirbedAt least 8 years have passed$2,000-$2,400

How to Get The Best Deal on a Mattress

Mattress prices vary widely depending on when and where you shop for one. Brands sold online are typically much more reasonably priced than those sold in stores. You can cut costs even further by taking advantage of holiday sales, comparison shopping, and bundling offers.

Holiday Deals and Sales

Retailers of mattresses online frequently time seasonal sales and discounts to coincide with major holidays. Every page of the company’s website, from the homepage to the pages dedicated to individual products, will feature prominent advertisements for these sales. You may need to call ahead or pay a visit to the store in order to find out if they are holding any holiday sales.

What to anticipate from various holiday sales will be discussed in greater detail in the following section.

HolidayDateData on Sales
Holiday Honoring Our Nation’s PresidentsThird February MondayMost people get an extra day off work because President’s Day is a federal holiday and this year it falls on a Monday. In addition, this is the first big shopping day of the year, so be on the lookout for new coupons and promo codes from various retailers.
Sunday is Memorial Day.The last workday of May is a Monday.Memorial Day, like Presidents’ Day, is a Monday holiday that is usually celebrated with a three-day weekend. One of the busiest times of year for mattress sales is around Memorial Day, and in order to compete with traditional stores, many online retailers run special discounts and sales of their own. Large coupons and discounts are to be expected.
Celebration of Freedom and IndependenceJuly 4thWhen July 4th falls on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, people typically get three days off of work. In that case, it will be a makeshift holiday in the middle of the week. However, many popular online stores have discounts in honor of the Fourth of July holiday.
Day of Privé sur AmazonJuly 15thBeginning on the 15th of every year, Prime members can take advantage of a two-day sale on Amazon.com. There are discounts on best-sellers and nationwide shipping is either free or cheap during the sale. There is currently a yearly membership fee of $119, or about $12 per month, for Amazon Prime. For $59 per academic year, students can become members.
Labor DayMonday, September 1st, 2016Many mattress stores start their Labor Day weekend sales on Friday and continue them through Monday. Beds for both adults and children are typically offered at steep discounts, and coupons can be found frequently online.
Day Honoring Veterans11 NovemberRegardless of what day of the week November 11 falls on, it is always Veterans Day. It is common practice for mattress companies to kick off their holiday sales and promotions on Veterans Day. You should also research the discount policies of various brands, as some do offer discounts to active and retired military.
Thanksgiving DayAfter the Thanksgiving holidayBlack Friday, the day after Thanksgiving and traditionally the start of the Christmas shopping season, is celebrated annually by many Americans as a consumer holiday. Traditionally, Black Friday has huge in-store and online sales. On Black Friday, you can find discounts on a wide variety of products from many popular brands. Sales and discounts are possible, as is price matching with competing brands.
It’s Cyber MondayThe Monday after Thanksgiving.Similar to Black Friday, but limited to online shopping, Cyber Monday is a shopping holiday. Many mattress retailers selling their wares online will extend their Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales events into the weekend. On Cyber Monday, prices are expected to drop drastically. You can save money by purchasing a bundled set or a set that includes free bedding supplies, as these are promotions offered by many different brands.

Do Your Homework

It’s important to do your homework when shopping online for anything, including beds. We suggest keeping an eye out for the following when searching for a new mattress online:

  • Many retailers and manufacturers now provide promotional discount codes that can be entered during the final checkout process to receive a price reduction on your total. These discounts could be a set dollar amount or a percentage off the regular price. Discounts and coupons can save you a significant amount of money.
  • Bedding accessories are often sold together with mattresses by online mattress retailers. Some retailers will have deals where you can get a mattress and an accessory together at a lower price than if you bought them separately. When you buy a certain brand of mattress, you might also get a free set of pillows or a mattress protector.
  • Some manufacturers of mattresses will match the price of their competitors on select bed models. Although it is more common at physical stores, many online retailers will match competitors’ prices during the holidays.

Although it’s true that online mattress purchases typically cost less overall, there is one major benefit to shopping locally: haggling over the price. Salespeople may offer discounts on new beds in order to make a sale and collect a commission.

FAQs

What is the best affordable mattress to buy?

You don’t have to skimp on comfort just because you’re on a tight budget; there are plenty of affordable options out there. The best budget mattress is the one that works best for your body type in your preferred sleeping position. Since people have varying needs when it comes to their beds, there is no perfect mattress for everyone.

Think about your specific requirements before going mattress shopping. After deciding what features are most important to you in a bed, you can narrow down your options by reading unbiased reviews that compare the quality and price of various budget mattresses. Instead of relying on marketing jargon, you should evaluate how well the product performs in each category, as a feature that is non-negotiable for one person may be absolutely essential for another.

What mattress types are less expensive than others?

Although there are low-cost options available for just about any mattress design, we do find that all-foam and innerspring models tend to be the most economical overall. Because of their simplicity, these mattresses are cheaper than hybrids with more intricate designs. Also, they use cheaper materials than latex mattresses. But these features don’t make them any less comfortable than the beds that typically cost more.

Both innerspring and all-foam mattresses, when properly cared for, can support sleepers for many years. However, if a hybrid or latex mattress is what you have your eye on, purchasing on a budget doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality. You can find some of these beds for shockingly low prices, and you can often save even more by waiting for a sale or taking advantage of special online promotions.

Are budget mattresses worth it?

A low price tag doesn’t necessarily indicate a low-quality mattress. It’s possible that a cheaper mattress will serve your purposes just as well as one that costs twice or three times as much.

An ideal mattress will offer sufficient support to prevent the sleeper’s body from sinking too far into the surface, while also feeling soft enough to cushion the spine and reduce pressure. Because of this, the level of firmness is a crucial consideration when shopping for a new mattress. An affordable mattress that is just the right firmness for your body and the way you prefer to sleep has a good shot at being the one that works best for you.

To find out if a mattress is comfortable for you, you should try sleeping on it. You can try out a new bed for at least 90 nights on the sleep trial offered by most online mattress brands. Mattresses can be returned for a full refund if they are unsatisfactory during the trial period; however, in some cases, a small return fee may be deducted from the refund amount. Use sleep trials to your advantage to find the mattress that works best for you.

How much does a nice mattress cost?

The price of a mattress can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the brand, size, warranty, and where it is manufactured and shipped from. While the lowest-priced models can be found for under $300, the most expensive mattresses can cost well over $5,000. Whether or not a mattress model works for your typical sleeping position is the single most important factor to consider when making a purchase. A mattress may be inexpensive, but it still might not be the best option for your situation.

Companies that produce low-priced mattresses online often save money by avoiding the overhead costs associated with maintaining a physical storefront and instead shipping products directly to customers. For less than $1,000, and often for as little as $500, many sleepers can find a mattress that meets their comfort and support needs. The holidays are a good time to buy a mattress because many stores have sales that bring the price down significantly.

Are cheap mattresses comfortable?

To each his or her own when it comes to ease. A comfortable mattress should alleviate pressure points and support the spine (the “aaaah” factor is a nice bonus). There are undoubtedly low cost mattresses that meet those standards. Beyond that, how one perceives the surface’s softness or the sink’s memory foam’s pleasantness depends entirely on his or her physical make-up and personal taste. However, the question of how long the comfort of a cheap mattress will last is a legitimate concern.

Should I consider a more expensive mattress?

It’s entirely dependent on what you’re looking for. As we mentioned up top, you can get a reasonably comfortable mattress for less than $400 (for a queen) if you don’t have special sleep concerns (like back problems) and are on a tight budget, if you move frequently, or if you otherwise don’t need a mattress to last more than a few years. For a guest room that is only used occasionally, a low-cost mattress may be the best option. A cheap mattress might not be the best option if you have more specific requirements or if you intend to make a long-term investment (you want your mattress to last five years or longer).

Your satisfaction with your mattress purchase is more likely to remain constant over time if you spend more money on it. This is particularly important to keep in mind when searching for an innerspring mattress. The majority of the innerspring mattresses we tried that cost less than $500 (for a queen) were so uncomfortable that sleeping on them was nearly impossible. While it’s true that you can find reasonably comfortable foam and hybrid mattresses on a budget, we’ve found that the mattresses we recommend in our best foam mattress and best hybrid mattress guides are typically more expensive because they use denser foams and have stronger construction. Companies that sell more expensive mattresses often (but not always) have clearer descriptions of their manufacturing processes, more extensive trial periods, and more accommodating return policies.

When is the best time to buy a mattress?

Although the best sales on mattresses usually occur around Presidents’ Day, you shouldn’t feel limited to that window. At the same time that mattresses go on sale for the summer and fall seasons, the Memorial Day and Labor Day holidays. Mattresses are commonly purchased by many people, and many people find that Amazon and other online retailers offer the best deals.

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