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A strict budget can feel restrictive, but that’s not always the case with mattress shopping. Although a mattress is often a big investment, many manufacturers sell high-quality models at reasonable prices.
Even on a budget, mattress shoppers have no shortage of options, so you will need to narrow your search to find the best model for you. The main details to consider are your weight range, sleep position, and personal preferences, as these attributes affect support and comfort.
In addition to covering some of the best mattress models available in this price range, we will include tips and information to assist you in making a wise purchasing decision. Note that while some queen mattresses we’ll discuss list for over $1,000, smaller sizes and/or promotional discount pricing fall below this price-point.
Best Mattresses Under $1,000
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Best Overall – Nectar Classic
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Best for Back Pain – Nolah Original 10
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Best for Side Sleepers – Bear Original
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Best Pressure Relief – Silk & Snow Hybrid
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Best for Couples – Layla Memory Foam Mattress
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Best Cooling – Cocoon Chill
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Best for Kids – Helix Kids
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Best Overall
Nectar Classic
8.3 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to 50% off mattresses + save $100 when you spend $1,000 or more
Up to 50% off mattresses + save $100 when you spend $1,000 or more
The Nectar Mattress takes home the award for the best overall mattress under $1,000. Its memory foam adapts to your body’s hot spots, relieving pressure so that you can maintain a better spinal alignment and more restorative sleep.
Price
$649
Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
365 nights
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
Our testing found that the Nectar is best for side sleepers who weigh less than 230 pounds. For these sleepers, the Nectar comfortably softens impact around the hips and shoulders. Back sleepers under 230 pounds on our testing team also gave this mattress high marks.
Feel
The feel of the Nectar is immediately inviting, with noticeable but gentle contouring around pressure points. But the mattress retains enough pushback to keep you from feeling like you’re sinking into it.
What It’s Made Of
The Nectar is an all-foam mattress with a top layer of gel-infused memory foam built to relieve pressure without excessive heat buildup. A second foam layer is made with responsive polyfoam, and the bse is composed of thick, high-density polyfoam.
What We Don’t Like
The mattress may feel too soft for sleepers over 230 pounds, especially those who sleep on their back or stomach.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 10000 validated customer reviews of the Nectar Mattress. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Pain Relief: Many users have reported significant relief from back, neck, and joint pain. The mattress seems particularly beneficial for those with chronic pain, contributing to better overall sleep quality.
- Free Accessories: Nectar often includes free pillows, mattress protectors, and sheets with the mattress, adding value and convenience for new customers.
- Suitable for All Weights: The mattress supports a wide range of body weights and sizes without losing comfort or stability, making it versatile for different users.
- Temperature Regulation: Several reviews indicate that the mattress does a good job of staying cool throughout the night, which is a significant benefit for those who tend to sleep hot.
- Customer Service: Positive remarks about Nectar’s customer service are common, with many customers feeling supported during the purchasing and setup process.
- Durability Concerns: While many users find the mattress supportive and comfortable, there are occasional mentions of durability concerns, such as sagging or indentations developing over time, particularly from heavier users.
Best Under $500
Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
8.6 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off storewide/sitewide. Code: cyber25
25% off storewide/sitewide. Code: cyber25
Priced well below average for a memory foam mattress of this caliber, the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex represents exceptional long-term value for shoppers with limited budgets. Plush comfort layers, zoned transitional foam, and a sturdy base help ensure a balanced sleep experience for most side and back sleepers.
Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$466
Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
Our hands-on tests indicate the CopperFlex Memory Foam is best suited to side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds and back sleepers up to 230 pounds, but we found most people who use these positions will be satisfied with the mattress. Superior motion isolation means the CopperFlex is a solid choice for couples, and cooling materials should make the mattress comfortable for hot sleepers.
Feel
The CopperFlex is medium firm (6). While the top comfort layers feel fairly plush and adaptive, the transitional foam is divided into three firmness zones to deliver extra pushback around your torso and hips. Dense base foam layers add to the stable feel of this mattress.
What It’s Made Of
The CopperFlex begins with a thin layer of adaptive polyfoam sewn to the cover, followed by two memory foam layers. Copper fibers infused into the top memory foam layer are intended to draw heat away from the sleep surface and keep you cool. Three-zone transitional foam and two layers of high-density polyfoam make up the support system. The cover is made of GlacioTex, a fabric engineered to dissipate body heat when it comes into contact with your skin and feel cool at all times.
What We Don’t Like
Initial off-gassing is fairly strong – these odors eventually clear out, but expect them to linger up to 72 hours after the CopperFlex is unboxed. Our testing team also found the mattress feels too soft for most stomach sleepers who weigh 130 pounds or more.
Scoring Breakdown
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
Best for Back Pain
Nolah Original 10
8.1 /10
Test Lab Score
Black Friday early access: 35% off mattresses + 2 free pillows
Black Friday early access: 35% off mattresses + 2 free pillows
Our selection for the best mattress for back pain under $1,000 is the Nolah Original 10. The proprietary foams in the top of this mattress give dynamic support to the heavier parts of the body, alleviating pressure and enabling a healthier spinal alignment that can help minimize back pain.
Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$942
Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium (5)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
This mattress is best suited to side sleepers who weigh under 230 pounds with special appeal to those under 130 pounds. It’s also a solid match for couples who want to prevent being woken up when there’s movement on the other side of the bed.
Feel
The firmness level of the Nolah Original is medium (5). When you lie down on the mattress, you quickly feel cradling around areas like the low back, hips, and shoulders. However, the cradling is not exaggerated and won’t cause you to feel like you’re being enveloped in the mattress.
What It’s Made Of
The top two layers of the Nolah Original 10 are made of the company’s proprietary AirFoam, which is copper-infused to fight heat buildup and arranged in zones to enhance support in key areas. The base is a thick layer of sturdy polyfoam.
What We Don’t Like
Most sleepers over 230 pounds find this mattress to feel too plush for their liking. There is a $99 return shipping fee deducted from all refunds.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
Best for Side Sleepers
Bear Original
7.6 /10
Test Lab Score
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
For side sleepers who need a mattress that can cushion their hips and shoulders, there’s no better option under $1,000 than the Bear Original Mattress. Using gel-infused memory foam, this mattress softens impact around key pressure points, letting you settle into a side sleeping posture while maintaining proper spinal alignment.
Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$649
Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Firm (7)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
Our testing showed that the Bear Original gives the highest degree of support to side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, back sleepers who weigh less than 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers weighing under 130 pounds. These sleepers most appreciated the blend of cushioning and support that the mattress offers.
Feel
The firmness feel of the Bear Original is firm (7), but you notice gentle cradling from its top layers that keeps the mattress from feeling too hard. Couples feel only minimal motion when their bed partner gets in or out of bed.
What It’s Made Of
The top layer of the Bear Original is made with a gel-infused memory foam that resists heat retention. The second layer is a responsive polyfoam, and the bottom layer is dense polyfoam. There is an option to add Celliant performance fabric to the cover, which is designed to sleep cool and facilitate muscle recovery.
What We Don’t Like
You can expect to encounter an odor when you first unbox the mattress, and this smell may hang around for up to a few days.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 10000 validated customer reviews of the Bear Original. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Firmness and Comfort: Many reviewers find the Bear Original mattress to be on the firm side but still comfortable, providing a good balance of support and cushioning.
- Pain Relief and Support: Users frequently report relief from back and neck pain. The mattress offers good support, which contributes to a more restful sleep and helps with physical recovery, especially noted by athletes and those with physically demanding lifestyles.
- Adjustment Period: Some customers noted a need for an adjustment period where initially the mattress felt too firm, but became more comfortable after continuous use. This is typical, and we recommend using a mattress for at least two weeks before considering a return.
- Temperature Regulation: There are some mixed reviews regarding temperature control; some users mention that the mattress does a good job at staying cool, while a few others still experience heat retention. This is most likley due to the memory foam featured in the mattress. If you’re a particularly hot sleeper, you may want to look elsewhere.
- Ease of Setup: The mattress is easy to unbox and set up, and it quickly expands to its full size. Customers appreciate the ease of installation.
- Customer Service: Bear’s customer service is frequently praised for being responsive and helpful, enhancing the overall buying and service experience.
Best Pressure Relief
Silk & Snow Hybrid
8.1 /10
Test Lab Score
$150 off at Silk & Snow
$150 off at Silk & Snow
For a great pressure-relieving mattress available for under $1,000, there’s no better option than the Silk & Snow Hybrid. It delivers a stellar combination of contouring and bounce that cushions the lower back and other pressure zones to enhance your comfort and support.
Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$700
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
365 nights (30-day requirement)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
Almost all side and back sleepers like the feel of the Silk & Snow Hybrid, and it offers especially compelling support for those with back pain who weigh under 230 pounds.
Feel
The firmness of the mattress rates as medium firm (6). When you first get settled on this mattress, you experience its balanced performance, which includes gentle contouring, light bounce, and solid edge support.
What It’s Made Of
The top of the Silk & Snow Hybrid includes polyfoam and a breathable fiber quilted into the mattress cover. A 2-inch layer of gel-infused memory foam boosts pressure relief. The support core uses pocketed steel coils that are reinforced around the edge and under the midsection.
What We Don’t Like
Most stomach sleepers find that there’s too much softness and contouring to get optimal back support. Adding a pillow-top feature makes the mattress less friendly to your budget.
Scoring Breakdown
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
Best for Couples
Layla Memory Foam Mattress
8.4 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to $200 off mattresses + 2 free pillows
Up to $200 off mattresses + 2 free pillows
Our pick for the best mattress for couples that you can buy for under $1,000 is the Layla Memory Foam Mattress. It has a unique reversible design, offering two-for-one firmness. On both sides, copper-infused memory foam cushions the body and contains vibrations so that bed partners aren’t disrupted by movement on the other side of the mattress.
Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$949
Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)
Trial Period
120 nights (4 week minimum)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
This mattress is a great fit for couples since it offers firmness options and prevents motion transfer across the mattress surface. It’s also a strong fit for side sleepers and most back and stomach sleepers under 230 pounds.
Feel
One side of the mattress has a medium soft (4) firmness, and the other side is firm (7). Both sides cradle pressure points, but there’s a deeper degree of hug on the softer side.
What It’s Made Of
Each side of the Layla Memory Foam Mattress has copper-infused memory foam designed to keep heat buildup to a minimum. The soft side also features a layer of resilient and adaptable polyfoam. In the middle is a core made of sturdy, high-density polyfoam.
What We Don’t Like
The softer side may lack firmness for most sleepers over 130 pounds. Most people report a light odor or “new mattress smell” after taking the mattress out of the packaging.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 7558 validated customer reviews of the Layla Memory Foam Mattress. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Dual Firmness Options: The Layla Memory Foam Mattress offers both soft and firm sides, allowing users to choose according to their comfort preferences, which is highly appreciated for accommodating different sleeping styles.
- Comfort and Support: Many reviewers have noted the mattress provides exceptional comfort, helping alleviate back pain and improving overall sleep quality. The soft side is often described as cloud-like, while the firm side offers adequate support without being too hard.
- Quality and Durability: Users report that the mattress maintains its shape and comfort over time, with no significant sagging or indentations, even after several years of use, indicating good durability.
- Temperature Regulation: The mattress is generally reviewed as doing a good job of regulating temperature, preventing overheating during sleep, which is a common issue with many memory foam mattresses.
- Ease of Setup: Customers appreciate the ease with which the mattress can be set up. It is delivered in a box and expands quickly once unpacked, making it convenient for immediate use.
- Customer Service: Layla’s customer service receives high praise for being responsive and helpful, aiding customers with issues ranging from delivery to product inquiries and returns.
Best Cooling
Cocoon Chill
7.8 /10
Test Lab Score
35% off at Cocoon
35% off at Cocoon
For hot sleepers with a limited mattress budget, the Cocoon Chill is a leading option for more comfortable and cooler sleep. Specialty materials help dissipate heat, but even with its cooling features, the Cocoon Chill is available for under $1,000.
Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$699
Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
Based on our in-house testing, the Cocoon Chill best meets the needs of side and back sleepers who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds. It was especially popular among people who run hot and often find themselves overheating during the night.
Feel
The feel of the Cocoon Chill is medium firm (6) with moderate contouring that helps cushion high-pressure areas like the hips, lower back, and shoulders. But the mattress doesn’t have excess sinkage and doesn’t build up heat while you sleep.
What It’s Made Of
A cover with a temperature-regulating phase change material works in combination with breathable memory foam to minimize heat retention at the top of the mattress. The middle layer is made with dynamic polyfoam, and the base is 6 inches of dense and durable polyfoam.
What We Don’t Like
The Cocoon Chill is noticeably weaker around the edge of the mattress. Stomach sleepers over 130 pounds typically find that it lacks sufficient firmness to support their midsection.
Scoring Breakdown
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
Best for Kids
Helix Kids
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
20% off sitewide + 2 free Dream Pillows with a mattress purchase. Code: cybersale20
20% off sitewide + 2 free Dream Pillows with a mattress purchase. Code: cybersale20
The best mattress with a price tag under $1,000 to give children the comfort and support they need is the Helix Kids Mattress. With its reversible design, the firmness level can be easily adjusted when kids start to grow and have different support needs.
Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Price
$749
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
It should come as no surprise that the Helix Kids Mattress is best for children between the ages of 3 and 13. Kids under 7 usually prefer the medium firm (6) side, while those over 8 tend to get better support from the medium soft (4) side.
Feel
The Helix Kids Mattress was built to provide both light cushioning and considerable bounce. This balance lets kids feel comfortable and supported while also allowing them to move around easily on the mattress. The firmness feel varies based on which side of the mattress is facing up.
What It’s Made Of
The core of the mattress is made with springy pocketed coils that have a reinforced edge. The softer side has a layer of gel-infused memory foam, and the firmer side features a responsive and resilient polyfoam. The cover uses Tencel material that is breathable and water-repellant.
What We Don’t Like
The mattress may lack support for kids who are over 13 years old. If only one side of the mattress is used, it may affect overall durability.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 514 validated customer reviews of the Helix Kids. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Versatility: The mattress is flippable with different firmness levels, making it suitable for children as they grow. This feature is highly valued by parents looking to make a long-term investment in a mattress.
- Material Quality: Users generally report that the mattress is made from high-quality materials, contributing to its durability and comfort.
- Smell and Off-gassing: Some users report a noticeable smell upon unpackaging, which can take a few days to dissipate. This is a common issue with new mattresses but can be a concern for sensitive individuals.
- Size Issues: There are occasional complaints about the mattress not fitting perfectly in standard frames, sometimes being slightly shorter or narrower than expected.
- Customer Service: Helix generally receives positive reviews for customer service, with prompt and helpful responses. However, there are isolated reports of delivery issues or difficulty arranging returns.
The Best Cyber Monday Mattress Deals We Found
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Save $450
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Nectar Classic
$649 (List Price $1,099) -
Save $275
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Helix Midnight
$1,099 (List Price $1,374) -
Save $333
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Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
$999 (List Price $1,332) -
Save $665
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DreamCloud Mattress
$665 (List Price $1,330) -
Save $300
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WinkBed
$1,499 (List Price $1,799)
Best Overall
Nectar Classic
8.3 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to 50% off mattresses + save $100 when you spend $1,000 or more
Shop NowAn all-foam mattress for under $1,000 that offers excellent comfort and pressure relief.
See More Details
Best Under $500
Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
8.6 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off storewide/sitewide. Code: cyber25
Shop NowImpressive cooling and motion isolation from an affordable memory foam mattress.
See More Details
Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Best for Back Pain
Nolah Original 10
8.1 /10
Test Lab Score
Black Friday early access: 35% off mattresses + 2 free pillows
Shop NowA mattress with a competitive price-point that offers first-rate back support and pain relief.
See More Details
Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Best for Side Sleepers
Bear Original
7.6 /10
Test Lab Score
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
Shop NowAn ideal combination of affordability and comfort in a dependable all-foam mattress.
See More Details
Best Pressure Relief
Silk & Snow Hybrid
8.1 /10
Test Lab Score
$150 off at Silk & Snow
Shop NowA supportive hybrid that relieves pressure with a zoned design that amps up spinal support.
See More Details
Best for Couples
Layla Memory Foam Mattress
8.4 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to $200 off mattresses + 2 free pillows
Shop NowA mattress with a reversible design, wallet-friendly price, and above-average motion isolation.
See More Details
Best Cooling
Cocoon Chill
7.8 /10
Test Lab Score
35% off at Cocoon
Shop NowAn affordably priced memory foam mattress with innovative cooling features.
See More Details
Best for Kids
Helix Kids
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
20% off sitewide + 2 free Dream Pillows with a mattress purchase. Code: cybersale20
Shop NowA budget-friendly and reversible mattress that gives your child two firmness levels to choose from.
See More Details
Credit: Sleep Foundation Test Lab
Watch Video: We Tested the Best Mattresses Under $1,000 – Here Are Our Favorites
Our sleep experts offer an in-depth look at some of our top mattress picks under $1,000. Watch the video below to see how each mattress performed when put to the test in our lab.
Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides
If you want to expand your search for a new bed beyond mattresses under $1,000, take a look at our recommendations categorized by mattress price.
How to Choose a Mattress Under $1,000
Just because you’re working with a limited budget doesn’t mean you have to settle for a low-quality mattress. While a higher spending limit can open up more options, plenty of great mattresses are available for under $1,000.
When shopping for an affordable mattress, there are several details to consider. If you want to find the best possible deal, weighing these factors can help you find the most cost-effective option for your needs and preferences.
What to Look for in a Mattress
When shopping for a mattress, you’ll probably come across an abundance of mattress terminology and marketing promotions. While it’s easy to be drawn in, you’re most likely to be happy with your purchase if you focus on the nuts-and-bolts of the mattress.
These factors are the most essential to look for, and thinking about which matter the most to you lets you shrink your options and clarify which brand and model is the best match for you.
Price
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to find something that will suit your needs. Many budget models perform well in key areas regardless of their cost. More importantly than price, however, shoppers should consider value. An inexpensive mattress may ultimately cost the consumer more if it needs to be replaced sooner due to quality issues. At the same time, a more expensive mattress could be a better value if it has a long lifespan and an enhanced performance.
Sleeping Position
Sleeping position is essential to consider when you shop for a mattress. It may be especially critical for budget shoppers, since they may not have the extra funds to modify their surface with a topper or other accessories if the mattress isn’t ideal. If you’re a side sleeper, you should generally look for a model that is highly rated for pressure relief. Back and stomach sleepers typically need a firmer model with enough support to promote proper spinal alignment.
Quality Materials
Although shopping within a budget might make it difficult to get a mattress with certain features, you should still be able to find a model with high-quality components. Selecting the best quality possible can improve the bed’s life expectancy.
Firmness Level
The firmness level can often impact how well a mattress performs for certain body types and sleep positions. Generally, most sleepers prefer a medium or medium firm mattress. However, individuals who weigh less than 130 pounds may favor a softer model, especially if they sleep on their sides. Those who weigh more than 230 pounds may need a firmer option for extra support, particularly if they sleep on their backs or stomachs.
Pressure Relief
If you need relief for pressure points, such as your shoulders or hips, consider a mattress with memory foam, polyfoam, latex, or other materials that contour to the body to redistribute its weight. While certain types of innerspring coils can also provide pressure relief, mattresses with substantial foam layers usually perform best in this area.
Motion Isolation
Light sleepers sometimes wake up at the slightest hint of movement from their partners. A mattress with strong motion isolation absorbs these vibrations to reduce sleep disruptions. Memory foam and polyfoam models tend to perform noticeably well in this area, but other materials can also limit motion transfer.
Temperature Regulation
If you tend to get uncomfortably warm in bed, you may prefer a mattress with strong temperature regulation. Breathable materials allow heat to escape, but other components, like phase change materials and special infusions, are designed specifically for cooling.
Edge Support
One of the most common problems with low-cost mattresses is sagging. A sturdy edge can enhance the structural integrity of the bed and allow you to use the full surface of the mattress. Models with coil cores usually earn the highest marks in this category, but firmer all-foam models can also perform well.
Contouring
Contouring refers to how well the materials of a mattress cradle the body. When a mattress conforms to the sleeper’s shape, it spreads out their weight to relieve pressure and support the spine. Contouring can be especially important for side sleepers since their hips and shoulders typically press harder against the sleep surface.
Mattress Type
The most common types of mattresses include innerspring, hybrid, all-foam, and latex. Innerspring and all-foam models are usually most affordable, but all mattress types have potential benefits that may make them ideal for some sleepers.
Mattress Types
There are a few different styles of mattresses on the market today, and each has slight variations that make it distinct. While there are some commonalities between mattresses of the same type, each model is unique, so performance may vary.
Hybrid
A hybrid model combines elements from two or more other mattress types. Coils typically make up the support core, while the comfort system usually uses polyfoam, memory foam, and/or latex. This combination of materials typically results in a mattress that rates well in many different categories.
Hybrid models are often more expensive than other mattress types, but budget-friendly options are also available.
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses have been popular for over a century, and they are often very cost-effective. While coils are usually the main component, many modern models also include additional thin layers of polyfoam or memory foam for cushioning.
While innerspring models usually excel in responsiveness, temperature regulation, and edge support, they may not provide the motion isolation and pressure relief some sleepers prefer. However, some budget shoppers may choose to buy an innerspring mattress and a topper to create a hybrid-like feel.
Foam
As the name implies, an all-foam mattress uses memory foam, polyfoam, or a combination of both. The comfort and transition layers may use memory foam or polyfoam, while the core generally consists of high-density polyfoam. Budget models often rely more heavily on polyfoam, which tends to be more breathable and responsive than memory foam. However, it also doesn’t hug as closely to the body and low-density varieties may be less durable. Some foam models also add layers of latex, but these are typically less common and more expensive.
An all-foam mattress can be particularly suitable for side sleepers who experience pain from pressure points, as the materials cradle the shape of the body to spread out its weight.
Latex
Latex mattresses may use natural, synthetic, or blended latex. Natural latex models are the most common, and they’re usually more expensive than other models due to the cost of this material. The advantage of latex is that it relieves pressure while also pushing back against the sleeper’s body, which means sleepers shouldn’t sink too far into the mattress. Some sleepers compare this to a floating sensation.
Natural latex also tends to be more environmentally friendly than most synthetic foam, making it a popular choice with eco-conscious shoppers.
While the higher price-point of a high-quality latex model may not appeal to some budget shoppers, the durability of the material may make it a good investment.
What Can Affect the Price of a Mattress?
Multiple factors can impact the cost of a mattress. When you’re working with a limited budget, it is important to consider these details to find the best option for your money.
Quality and Type of Materials: Price depends partially on the type of materials used in a mattress’ construction. For instance, memory foam and natural latex often cost more. Coils and polyfoam tend to be much more cost-effective, and high-quality options can be highly durable. However, low-quality polyfoam and coils may prematurely sag or show other signs of wear.
Durability: The less durable your mattress, the more likely it will be to develop issues like sagging that limit its usable lifespan. Durability is usually linked to the quality of the materials, so shoppers who want their mattress to last may prefer to select the highest quality model that accommodates their needs, preferences, and budget.
Mattress Layers: Mattresses with more layers are typically thicker and pricier due to their extra materials and more complicated constructions. While their additional layers may improve the performance of some models, shoppers can often save money by selecting an option with a simpler design.
Density: The density of foam affects its performance and durability. Lower-density polyfoam and memory foam typically cost less, trap less heat, and respond more quickly to changes in pressure. However, they also tend to be less durable and not as exceptional at pressure relief and motion isolation.
Proprietary Technology: Some mattresses use proprietary materials, and this almost always results in a higher price due to costs associated with development. Some special components can improve the performance of a mattress, however, so they may be worth the extra expense for some shoppers.
Shipping Rates, Returns, and Warranties
Shipping, return, and warranty policies can differ quite a bit from one mattress manufacturer to the next. When you add retail stores into the mix, these details could get even more confusing.
Shipping
While there are differences between how each mattress manufacturer or retailer will ship their products, most of them take a very similar approach. With that being said, a few variances can impact when and how you receive your new mattress.
How Long Will It Take to Arrive?
Many companies assemble the mattress upon receiving an order, and this process can take a few days, adding to the shipping time. Once sent, shipments originating from your region may take just a couple of days to arrive, but those coming from across the country can take a week or more.
How Is It Shipped?
Most manufacturers work with a shipping company to send your mattress to your front door. Mattress-in-a-box models are typically compressed, wrapped in plastic, and encased in a box. Some companies also offer White Glove delivery, which means they will send a team to deliver and set up the new mattress. Old mattress removal may also be included. This service usually costs extra, but a few companies include it at no charge.
Is Shipping Free?
Many mattress manufacturers and retail mattress chains offer free shipping. Most of these services include to-the-door-delivery. However, a few companies include White Glove delivery at no additional cost.
Returns
If you’re shopping on a budget, a good return policy may be especially useful to ensure you have recourse if the mattress isn’t ideal for you. Most online mattress sellers include a trial period to give you a chance to adjust to the bed before you make an official decision. These policies typically last between 90 days and a year.
How Are Returns Handled?
Three return methods are most common. Many companies ask you to donate your unwanted mattress to an eligible local charity and send them proof of the donation. Some will also help arrange for the charity to pick up the mattress. Other companies send a team to remove the mattress from your home. A few manufacturers may ask you to send the mattress back to them, though this is not standard due to the difficulty of packing a mattress for shipment.
Are Returns Free?
Although many companies offer free returns, some may require you to pay transportation and/or service fees.
Warranties
Mattress manufacturers usually offer a warranty to protect against eligible defects in manufacturing and materials. The terms of mattress warranties can vary quite a bit, so reading them carefully can give you a clearer idea of the level of coverage.
What Does a Warranty Cover?
Mattress warranties typically cover specific defects in the materials or manufacturing, like splitting foam and indentations greater than a certain depth. Changes in personal preferences and damage from mishandling, abuse, and accidents are not covered.
What Should You Look for in a Warranty?
The main detail to look for is warranty length. While some companies offer a 5- to 10-year warranty, others provide warranties that last 20 to 25 years. The terms can also be important, as they will define how returns work and how they deem a mattress to be defective.
How Much Does a Warranty Cost?
Typically, mattress manufacturers offer warranties at no additional cost. However, the mattress owner may be expected to pay associated transportation and/or handling charges should they make a warranty claim. Some policies also include a prorated fee structure for repairs and replacements based on how long you’ve owned the mattress.
Additional Mattress Costs
When purchasing a new mattress, it may be necessary to consider related costs. These expenses could easily add up and become an issue for shoppers with a limited budget. Whether you choose to limit extra expenses or set aside money for them, you should be aware of additional costs you may incur and how they can impact your experience and budget.
Bed Frames and Bedding: If you purchase a different mattress size than what you previously owned, you’ll likely need a new frame and bedding to accommodate it. Similarly, high-profile mattresses require deep pocket sheets, so you may need a new set if you select a thicker model. High-quality mattress covers, protectors, and sheets can also improve the lifespan of a bed, so they may be worth the expense to protect your investment.
Shoppers should keep in mind that many mattress warranties require that a reliable foundation support the mattress. Before purchasing a new frame or using your existing foundation, read through the terms of the warranty to ensure you don’t inadvertently void the policy.
Mattress Removal: Old mattresses must be disposed of appropriately, which may be an extra expense. These services are sometimes provided by mattress companies and retail stores for an additional fee, though a few include it at no additional cost. If old mattress removal is not available, you’ll need to look into local regulations to ensure you discard it correctly. Recycling is usually the best way to dispose of a mattress that’s no longer usable.
Expert Assembly: Boxed mattresses typically come with unpacking instructions. While most new owners find it relatively simple to set up their new bed, expert help can come in handy if you’re unsure, have physical limitations that make moving large objects difficult, and/or can’t enlist a friend or family member to assist you. White Glove delivery includes unpacking, assembly, and setup. This service often carries an additional fee, though a few companies include it in the purchase price.
How to Get the Best Deal on a Mattress
A new mattress can be expensive, but useful strategies can help you save money. These methods could easily cut your costs by hundreds of dollars, which might allow you to consider a bigger mattress, new bedding, or other related accessories to complete your bedroom setup.
Shop During Mattress Sales
Both retailers and mattress manufacturers often have sales during holidays or special sale events, such as Black Friday. These sales are typically offered at least once every few months, so you might want to check prices around the next holiday to see what deals are available.
Buy Online
Customers can often save money by buying a mattress directly from the manufacturer’s website. This can eliminate some of the usual overhead costs that get passed on to consumers, like the operating expenses associated with brick-and-mortar retail locations. Additionally, while some mattress and furniture stores charge for delivery, most direct-to-consumer mattress companies ship for free.
As an added bonus, buying online allows you to comparison shop and carefully weigh your options without pressure from salespeople, which may make it easier to find the best value for your money.
Coupon Codes, Referrals, and Discounts
Mattress companies frequently offer savings through coupon codes, referrals, and other discounts. While these deals are often displayed on the product page, you might also receive offers if you sign up for emails from the company.
Comparison Shop
Comparing prices between different mattress types, brands, and models can give you a better idea of what is available within your budget. Once you think you’ve found the right bed for you, you might continue comparison shopping to determine whether you can get a better price through the company’s website or a third-party vendor. Note that shipping and delivery policies may vary between sellers, so it’s important to pay attention to the fine print.
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