When it comes to online options, the best value mattress comes in many different forms. Lower pricing, impeccable construction and design, and higher durability are some examples. Using these factors, we tested and analyzed numerous mattress models in order to find the best mattress for the money.
We found 10 models to be particularly high-quality, lower-cost options. The result is our roundup of the ten best mattresses for the money! Below, our buying guide provides everything you should know about getting a great value out of your mattress!
Best Mattresses for the Money: Our Top 10 Picks
The best mattresses for the money are:
- Nectar – Best Overall
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid – Best Queen-Size Mattress for the Money
- Bear Original – Best King-Size Mattress for the Money
- Nolah – Best Mattress for Back Pain
- Layla – Best Memory Foam Mattress for the Money
- WinkBeds – Best Cooling Mattress
- Titan Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy People
- Puffy Original – Best Mattress for Couples
- Dreamfoam Essential – Best Mattress Under $500
Video Review: Best Mattresses for the Money 2023
How We Chose the Best Mattresses for the Money
Our team of sleep specialists have reviewed more than 150 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period, and warranty.
For this roundup, we focused on price as an additional parameter, which is why all 10 mattresses are less than $1,500 for a Queen-size after discounts. Value goes beyond just money, though; it’s about what you’re getting for what you’re paying. When looking at our overall scores for these 10 mattresses, all of them scored at least a 3.5 out of 5, with half of them scoring a 4 or higher.
Before we dive into each of these beds, you can check out our list of best affordable mattresses if you’re simply looking to save as much money as possible. If you haven’t decided after reading this article, take our mattress quiz for more tailored recommendations!
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The Nectar is a memory foam mattress with a classic quicksand feel. When you lie on the bed, you should slowly sink into the mattress and feel it envelop you. Back sleepers should notice their hips sink in while the top layer presses into the lumbar area. Side sleepers should feel great pressure relief around their shoulders and hips.
What Makes the Nectar Stand Out?
- This soft memory foam mattress contours to the shape of your body.
- The cover and top foam layers are designed to help you sleep cool.
- Nectar makes their mattresses overseas and sells their high-quality product for less than many memory foam mattresses.
Read our full Nectar mattress review. If you aren’t interested in the Nectar mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses of 2023 for more great options!
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a hybrid mattress with coils and two latex like layers. This construction provides a balance of comfort and support for back sleepers. Stomach sleepers should feel properly supported, and side sleepers should get great pressure relief around their shoulders and hips.
What Makes the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Stand Out?
- Brooklyn Bedding sells their mattresses at a lower price because they own their own factory. They skip the middleman and pass the savings directly onto the customer.
- The coils and other layers are high-quality and durable, making the Signature Hybrid a great investment.
- The company also offers other value mattresses like the Brooklyn Bedding Bowery, Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe, and Brooklyn Bedding Spartan.
Read our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review. If you aren’t interested in the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for back sleepers for more great options!
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
With a quilted pillow top and plush comfort layer, the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid mattress works well for most back and side sleepers. And, like all Saatva mattresses, this one doesn't arrive compressed inside a cardboard box!
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 Nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
With a quilted pillow top and plush comfort layer, the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid mattress works well for most back and side sleepers. And, like all Saatva mattresses, this one doesn't arrive compressed inside a cardboard box!
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid
With a quilted pillow top and plush comfort layer, the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid mattress works well for most back and side sleepers. And, like all Saatva mattresses, this one doesn't arrive compressed inside a cardboard box!
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
365 Nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
Unlike many online mattresses, the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid isn’t compressed in a box. This results in a highly durable mattress that customers can enjoy right away. Another unique feature is the organic cotton cover and luxurious quilted pillow-top. Below sits a layer of pocked coils that add to the durability and help support the lumbar region. Sleepers can currently enjoy this luxury bed for under $1,500 (Queen-size) after discounts!
What Makes the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Stand Out?
- With a medium firmness level, this mattress works well for most back and side sleepers.
- This mattress feels firmer around the hips, helping sleepers maintain proper spinal alignment.
- The coils help give this bed extra edge support.
Read our full Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid mattress review. If you aren’t interested in the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid mattress, check out our list of the best queen size mattresses for more great options!
Bear Mattress
The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Mattress
The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Mattress
The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
If you’re a single sleeper or a couple looking for a big bed that won’t break the bank, you’ll want to check out the Bear Original. This mattress was designed for athletes, as it has a Celliant cover, which some studies show can help improve circulation and performance. It’s also a great choice for couples, as it absorbs motion very well. It is also a cooling mattress, thanks to its cooling gel memory foam and breathable cover.
What Makes the Bear Original Stand Out?
- It has an optimal support level for back sleepers.
- Its Celliant cover may improve circulation and athletic performance.
- A breathable cover and gel-infused memory foam means that it sleeps quite cool.
Read our full Bear mattress review. If you aren’t interested in the Bear Original mattress, check out our list of the best king size mattresses for more great options!
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
The Nolah Original 10" mattress works especially well for side sleepers, and it's sold at a value price.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
The Nolah Original 10" mattress works especially well for side sleepers, and it's sold at a value price.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
The Nolah Original 10" mattress works especially well for side sleepers, and it's sold at a value price.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
The last thing those with back pain need is a mattress that worsens the discomfort. Luckily, the Nolah is an all-foam mattress with a mix of comfort and support; this is ideal for sleepers with back pain need. Its high-density foam base layer is durable and helps the spine stay in proper alignment. The Nolah’s signature AirFoam comfort layer is more responsive than traditional memory foam. This should be great for back pain, since the AirFoam provides pressure relief and allows sleepers to sink comfortably into the mattress without getting stuck.
What Makes the Nolah Stand Out?
- The Nolah is a good choice for couples. With great motion isolation and solid edge support, you shouldn’t be disturbed by your partner’s movements and should make full use of the mattress surface.
- The cover is breathable, and the AirFoam is designed so that it shouldn’t trap heat like traditional memory foam.
- Because this mattress is softer than average and has excellent contouring capabilities, it’s highly recommended for side sleepers.
Read our full Nolah mattress review. If you aren’t interested in the Nolah mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for back pain for more great options!
Layla Mattress
An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Mattress
An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Mattress
An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Not only does the all-foam Layla mattress create excellent pressure relief, but it’s also flippable! You can choose between the firm or soft side to achieve your ideal comfort level. It has impressive cooling elements that keep sleepers comfortable all night long. First, there’s Thermogel inside the cover. This cooling agent helps pull heat away from the body. Below that are copper gel beads inside the memory foam. This promotes breathability and airflow.
What Makes the Layla Stand Out?
- The Layla gives you the luxurious feeling of memory foam without draining your bank account.
- We’ve ranked the Layla as one of the best memory foam mattresses.
- Because it’s an all-foam mattress, the Layla isolates motion well. This is ideal for couples.
Read our full Layla mattress review. If you aren’t interested in the Layla mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for the money for more great options!
WinkBed Mattress
Winkbeds has a mattress that is an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
Winkbeds has a mattress that is an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
Winkbeds has a mattress that is an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Innerspring mattresses tend to sleep cool because the coils have so much space between them. This leaves plenty of room for air to flow through the bed. So if you’re an especially hot sleeper who enjoys a traditional innerspring feel, we recommend you check out the WinkBed, which has a support layer of tall coils at the bottom of the mattress. Further up on the bed, there’s a Euro-style pillow-top with gel infused into its layers. This helps the material keep a lower temperature, ensuring that sleepers stay cool.
What Makes the WinkBed Stand Out?
- Sleepers should experience support from the coils, while also getting pressure relief from the foam and pillow-top above.
- Because of its support and firmness, we find the WinkBed to be a good match for back sleepers and stomach sleepers.
- It’s available in four different firmness levels: Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and the WinkBed Plus, which was designed specifically for heavy sleepers.
Read our full WinkBeds mattress review. Or you can see our roundup of the best cooling mattresses for other choices!
Titan Plus
The Titan Plus is Brooklyn Bedding's mattress for heavy people. It is a firm, supportive mattress that can support heavier weights.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 9/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Titan Plus
The Titan Plus is Brooklyn Bedding's mattress for heavy people. It is a firm, supportive mattress that can support heavier weights.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 9/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Titan Plus
The Titan Plus is Brooklyn Bedding's mattress for heavy people. It is a firm, supportive mattress that can support heavier weights.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 9/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Because they tend to need an extra-supportive mattress, it can often be tough for heavy people over 230 lb to find the right bed. But they’re in luck — Brooklyn Bedding has designed a mattress just for them! Dubbed the Titan Plus, it’s made with highly durable materials that can easily hold up heavy people while also providing them with comfort. Its comfort layer is made with a more supportive and responsive version of memory foam called TitanFlex foam, and the base of the bed has a super-thick layer of 6″ TitanCaliber coils.
What Makes the Titan Plus Stand Out?
- Heavyweight back sleepers and stomach sleepers should be especially comfortable on the Titan Plus.
- The Titan Plus has excellent edge support, so heavy sleepers should be able to spread out to the edge of the mattress without a problem.
- The space between the coils leaves plenty of room for air to flow through the mattress. You can also add a cooling panel for an additional cost if you’re an especially hot sleeper.
Learn more in our full Titan Plus review. We also have other options on our roundup of the best mattresses for heavy people, just in case you want to explore other options!
Puffy Mattress
Puffy is a comfortable memory foam mattress that is especially great for back and side sleepers.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
101 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Puffy Mattress
Puffy is a comfortable memory foam mattress that is especially great for back and side sleepers.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
101 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Puffy Mattress
Puffy is a comfortable memory foam mattress that is especially great for back and side sleepers.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
101 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Couples who are shopping for an affordable mattress will like the Puffy Original. This bed comes at a low price point, and has lots of features that make it great for couples. First off, it has some impressive motion transfer, so you won’t feel your partner’s movements on your side of the bed. It also has a cooling gel infusion in its memory foam comfort layer, which prevents it from trapping heat (great when you have two bodies producing heat). Lastly, this bed has a responsive feel that makes it a good mattress for sex.
What Makes the Puffy Original Stand Out?
- It’s designed to be cooling and breathable, so it won’t trap body heat.
- It isolates motion well so you shouldn’t be disturbed by a partner’s tossing and turning.
- It offers great bang for your buck.
Check out our full Puffy Original mattress review. If you aren’t interested in the Puffy Original mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for couples for more great options!
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress
The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
When people think about the best mattress for the money, it’s natural for price to be a high consideration. The Dreamfoam Essential is the most affordable mattress on this list, as it’s currently priced under $500 for a 6″ queen size after discounts. If you want to save a lot of money and still get a comfortable memory foam mattress, this bed should be a good option for you. Consumers can also choose from 8”, 10”, 12”, or 14” models. Each has a different firmness that’s ideal for different types of sleepers.
What Makes the Dreamfoam Essential Stand Out?
- Its price tag can’t be beat.
- It has five thickness options to choose from.
- It’s a nice choice for lightweight side and back sleepers.
Read our full Dreamfoam Essential mattress review. If you aren’t interested in the Dreamfoam Essential mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses under $500 for more great options!
Getting the Most for Your Money – Watch Out for Deals and Sales
Mattress retailers are known for having sales at fairly predictable times of the year. A good portion of the sales also fall around holiday times such as Presidents’ Day, the Fourth of July, and Black Friday. If someone is looking to purchase a mattress in a store or online, they should take a look at when the standard mattress sales are happening and consider purchasing then.
Keep an eye out for bundles because many retailers offer pillows, sheet sets, and even foundations with the purchase of your mattress. If you’re in need of a full bedroom set, then factor this kind of deal into your decision-making process.
What Type of Mattress Is the Best Value?
If you’re trying to decide which type of mattress is the best value, consider how much it costs and how long it will last. Here’s a breakdown of a few different types of beds and how they might meet this criteria.
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses are known for offering great support and bounce. The average innerspring mattress costs approximately $1,000. This can vary greatly depending on the company and the materials they use, but $1,000 is a realistic median price. A decent innerspring mattress featuring coils should last for an average duration of eight years. This changes based on the quality and durability of the coils used. A poor innerspring mattress’ coils may sag after a few years, causing serious discomfort for sleepers.
Memory Foam
These types of mattresses are all about offering soft comfort and pressure relief. The average memory foam mattress costs around $1,000, but shoppers can find some online mattresses for under $500. These lower-priced beds often sag quickly, and sleepers can notice body indentations. Regardless of cost, a quality memory foam mattress should last for around 10 years before it needs to be replaced.
Latex
Latex is known for its durability and eco-friendliness. While latex mattresses do cost more (around $2,000 on average), they shouldn’t sag too quickly and should last for between 12 and 15 years. These are some of the most long-lasting options out there.
Hybrid
A hybrid mattress is a mix of the mattresses mentioned above. It features coils in the support layer and then memory foam, latex, or some other type of foam in the comfort layer. The average price for a hybrid is around $2,000, but shoppers can find a decent hybrid for around $1,500. The SweetNight mattress is one example of a more affordable option. A well-built hybrid should last for around 10 years.
Increasing Value – Consider Mattress Durability
The phrase “people get what they pay for” is especially true when it comes to mattresses. The range in durability from bed to bed can be substantial depending on the materials used in the construction. If someone saves $300 on a mattress, but it wears out in five years, are they really getting a good value?
Compare that to a mattress costing $300 more but wearing out after 10 to 12 years. Most would argue the second bed is the better long-term deal. Before purchasing, you consider how long you want the mattress and then read reviews to make sure you know how long it lasts.
Different materials affect the life of your mattress. For example, some types of foam sag over time, while others are more responsive. Latex mattresses, while more expensive, will last longer than most memory foam mattresses. Some beds incorporate “sag-proof” foam to fight the long-term aging of a mattress. You may be paying more for certain materials up front, but the mattress will pay for itself in its extra years of use.
How to Make a Mattress Last – Further Tips
Once someone has purchased a mattress, there are several steps people can take to ensure they get to use it for a long time. Keep reading to learn how to make your mattress last longer.
Buy a Mattress Protector
It may seem like more money, but a mattress protector could add years to a mattress because it protects against stains and messes. Many warranties require people to use one.
Ensure the Mattress is Supported
The majority of mattresses require a box spring, foundation, or bed to ensure your mattress wears evenly. Some warranties may be voided if people don’t use the correct foundation, so there are multiple reasons why people should strongly consider their foundation.
Don’t Bounce on the Bed
If people have kids, they may enjoy jumping on the bed. This can damage the mattress, especially if it has coils.
Keep Food out of the Bed
It may be nice to eat a few cookies in bed, but those crumbs could attract bugs. If someone is going to eat on their mattress, they should change their sheets at least once a week.
Flip Your Mattress Regularly
While many online mattresses aren’t flippable, there are still some mattresses that benefit from regular flipping. This cuts down on the wear and body indentation that can affect sleeping surfaces.
Spot-Clean Messes Immediately
Accidents do happen, and if someone does make a mess, they should carefully clean it at once. Take a look at your mattress’s materials and use gentle or mild cleaners. Learn more about cleaning your mattress in this in-depth article.
Where to Purchase Your Mattress
A vast majority of people now buy their mattresses online rather than going to a brick-and-mortar physical location. That’s because online shopping offers greater convenience, and many brick-and-mortar mattress stores can be confusing when it comes to models, pricing, and firmness scales.
While people can’t try out an online mattress the way they can in a mattress store, brands often include generous sleep trials. These allow people to try out the mattress for a few months (100 days is a common trial length) and return it if they’re unhappy.
Many online mattresses are more affordable than their in-store counterparts. This is because they have less overhead and cut out the middlemen, passing savings directly to the consumer. Some companies own their own factories, allowing them to keep prices even lower. There are even a few hidden-gem companies out there that spend very little on marketing. They pass on the savings to the customer in the form of a lower price.
Some companies make their mattresses overseas, which allows them to cut down on costs and pass the savings directly on to the consumer.
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Trial Periods and Warranties
Most mattress companies (both online and brick-and-mortar) offer warranties, and most online mattresses come with a sleep trial. While these can be helpful and save money, make sure to have a firm understanding of the fine print. Some warranties are voided without the proper foundation or care and some trial periods don’t include free shipping. If people don’t enjoy the product, they may have to pay to return it.
Shipping and Taxes
If consumers purchase online, they should see if they need to pay extra for shipping or not. A lot of new companies offer free shipping, but not all. While people may think they’re getting a great deal, it never feels good to get hit with unexpected shipping costs during the checkout process. Depending on where people live, they may have to pay additional sales taxes.
People should keep a lookout for companies offering “White Glove Delivery.” With this option, movers will bring the mattress to a person’s door, set it up, and take away the trash. This is a convenient option, especially if you’re dealing with a heavy mattress or if your bedroom isn’t on the first floor.
These extra costs shouldn’t make or break someone’s decision, but it’s an added bonus if you don’t have to pay them.
FAQ
Which is the best value mattress for heavyweight sleepers?
If you're a heavier person over 230 lbs, ensure you get a mattress with adequate support. The Saatva really stands out as a great choice. It has coils at the bottom and a plush pillow-top, creating a great balance of comfort and support. When you're on your back, your hips should sink in, but not too far. When you're on your side, you should feel surprisingly good pressure relief.
Can you sleep on a mattress right out of the box?
The surface of a new bed-in-a-box mattress is suitable for sleeping on right away. Some people prefer to wait up to 48 hours due to off-gassing. That's the faint odor accompanying many bed-in-a-box mattresses upon opening. It's worth noting that the smell is harmless and usually goes away after two days or sooner.
How much should a value mattress cost?
That all depends on how you define value. If you're just looking at price, an inexpensive mattress is usually any bed that's $1,000 or less. However, we believe the mattresses in this roundup — all of which cost $1,500 or less after discounts — also have high value because of the quality of their materials and construction.
Who makes the best affordable mattress?
While we love all of the featured mattresses on this list, we have to shout out our editor's pick: the Nectar. It includes high-quality foams and does a great job at cooling for a memory foam mattress. Its motion isolation and edge support are also impressive. You can get a Queen-size for less than $900.
What is the best king-size mattress for the money?
We would say the Nectar wins for best King-size as well. It has impressive edge support for a memory foam mattress, so you should be able to use the full surface of the bed. Many who own a King share a bed with someone; the Nectar a great choice for couples because of its impressive cooling, motion isolation, and durability. For more king selections, check out our roundup of the best king-size mattresses.
What is the best mattress topper for the money?
The Helix Plush is one of our favorite cheap mattress toppers. It has a soft and luxurious pillow-top that adjusts the feel of a mattress. Also, its bamboo cover cools hot sleepers. For more mattress toppers, see our roundup of the best mattress toppers.
Overall
Here’s an overview of our top picks for the best mattresses for the money:
| Mattress | Best For |
| Nectar | Best Overall |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Best Mattress for Back Sleepers |
| Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid | Best Queen-Size Mattress for the Money |
| Bear Original | Best King-Size Mattress |
| Nolah | Best Mattress for Back Pain |
| Layla | Best Memory Foam Mattress for the Money |
| WinkBeds | Best Cooling Mattress |
| Titan Plus | Best Mattress for Heavy People |
| Puffy Original | Best Mattress for Couples |
| Dreamfoam Essential | Best Mattress Under $500 |
Featured image: craig hill/Shutterstock
