The 7 Best Cheap Mattresses of 2024 for Any Budget
GQ RecommendsThese cheap mattresses will save you a night of tossing and turning from bad sleep and an empty wallet.By Rachel MacPhersonOctober 31, 2024Photograph courtesy of Everett Collection / Photo Illustration by Gabe ConteSave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.So, you’ve decided to upgrade your sleep, but you don’t want to drop heaps of cash on a block of foam and some coils. We hear you. We see you. And luckily for you, the difference between the best cheap mattress and a luxury, expensive one ain't what it used to be. Thanks to the leaps and bounds of mattress-in-a-box technology, we’re seeing brands bring quality mattresses that won’t creak or sag to the masses for under $1,000.This is great news because most people spend about a third of their lives in bed, and research shows that the quality of a person’s mattress—probably their pillow, too—makes a big difference in the quality of their sleep. After hours of researching and testing (aka snoozing) on a bunch of mattresses (including ones you can buy on Amazon), we’ve found some top-notch, budget-friendly options that won’t leave you tossing and turning.Our Favorite Cheap Mattress OverallWhen it comes to the best affordable mattress, the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress takes the crown. This medium-firm gem feels like a warm hug, offering stellar support and motion isolation that's perfect for a peaceful night’s sleep. Plus, with a 100-night trial and a 15-year warranty, it’s a risk-free investment in your comfort.Best Cheap Mattresses: At a GlanceIf you’re looking to save some cash or just need a practical solution for your sleeping needs, we’ve got you covered with the best cheap mattresses.Best Cheap Mattress Overall : Nectar Classic Memory Foam MattressBest Cheap Hybrid Mattress: DreamCloud Hybrid MattressBest Affordable Mattress in a Box: Brooklyn Bedding Essential Hybrid MattressBest Budget Cooling Mattress: Bear Original Memory Foam MattressBest Affordable Mattress for Couples: Emma Hybrid Comfort MattressBest Cheap Firm Mattress: Silk & Snow Memory Foam MattressBest Affordable Mattress for Back Pain: Siena Original Memory Foam MattressHow We Chose The Best Cheap MattressAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronOur testing team tried tons of mattresses, and we constantly talk to certified sleep experts who have tested over 500 (!) mattresses using a mix of napping and advanced tools like pressure maps and thermal guns. We evaluate each mattress on comfort, support, pressure relief, and temperature control to ensure our findings are backed by peer-reviewed research and verified by medical professionals. This thorough process helps us recommend the best affordable mattresses for different sleep styles and body types.JUMP TO: Best Overall | Best Hybrid | Best in a Box | Best Cooling | Best for Couples | Best Firm | Best for Back Pain | Compare Costs | Testing Process | What to Look For | FAQBest Cheap Mattress Overall: Nectar Classic Memory Foam MattressChevronChevronNectarNectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress$649 NectarPros & ConsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronProsExcellent motion isolationGreat pressure reliefClassic cushioned memory foam feelCertiPUR-US certified foamConsNot as cooling as some competitorsMay not be supportive enough for stomach sleepersEdge support could be betterOur Rating: 4.3 out of 5Body support: 4Durability: 4Motion transfer: 4.5Cooling: 4Edge support: 4Value: 4.5Warranty and trial: 5Warranty/Guarantee: 100-night trial, 15 yearsFirmness Level: Medium-Firm, 6.5/10Type: Memory foamThe Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress is our top pick for the best cheap mattress because of its all-around features that provide optimal cool and comfortable sleep. This medium-firm option contours and cushions pressure points for a doughy, hugging feel that doesn’t sink in too much.The Tester’s TakeThe problem with memory foam is that it often sacrifices support for cushy comfort. It’s almost like brands took “sleeping on a cloud” a little too seriously. Luckily, Nectar’s memory foam mattress bucks the trend all without adding any coils (and keeping that price tag low). In our testing, we found the memory foam material contours to your body for superb pressure relief and motion isolation. This means you can toss and turn without disturbing your partner, which is a huge plus for light sleepers. The foam is CertiPUR-US certified, which means it's free from chemicals and low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that the Environmental Working Group has deemed not so great for human health.We think Nectar's 100-night trial and 15-year warranty make it a fairly risk-free investment—at least, way less risky than going all-in on crypto. In our testing, we noticed the mattress excels in cooling, thanks to its gel-infused memory foam layer and crisp cover, which help regulate temperature all night—a great feature for sweaty sleepers. With
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
So, you’ve decided to upgrade your sleep, but you don’t want to drop heaps of cash on a block of foam and some coils. We hear you. We see you. And luckily for you, the difference between the best cheap mattress and a luxury, expensive one ain't what it used to be. Thanks to the leaps and bounds of mattress-in-a-box technology, we’re seeing brands bring quality mattresses that won’t creak or sag to the masses for under $1,000.
This is great news because most people spend about a third of their lives in bed, and research shows that the quality of a person’s mattress—probably their pillow, too—makes a big difference in the quality of their sleep. After hours of researching and testing (aka snoozing) on a bunch of mattresses (including ones you can buy on Amazon), we’ve found some top-notch, budget-friendly options that won’t leave you tossing and turning.
Our Favorite Cheap Mattress Overall
When it comes to the best affordable mattress, the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress takes the crown. This medium-firm gem feels like a warm hug, offering stellar support and motion isolation that's perfect for a peaceful night’s sleep. Plus, with a 100-night trial and a 15-year warranty, it’s a risk-free investment in your comfort.
Best Cheap Mattresses: At a Glance
If you’re looking to save some cash or just need a practical solution for your sleeping needs, we’ve got you covered with the best cheap mattresses.
- Best Cheap Mattress Overall : Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress
- Best Cheap Hybrid Mattress: DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress
- Best Affordable Mattress in a Box: Brooklyn Bedding Essential Hybrid Mattress
- Best Budget Cooling Mattress: Bear Original Memory Foam Mattress
- Best Affordable Mattress for Couples: Emma Hybrid Comfort Mattress
- Best Cheap Firm Mattress: Silk & Snow Memory Foam Mattress
- Best Affordable Mattress for Back Pain: Siena Original Memory Foam Mattress
How We Chose The Best Cheap Mattress
Our testing team tried tons of mattresses, and we constantly talk to certified sleep experts who have tested over 500 (!) mattresses using a mix of napping and advanced tools like pressure maps and thermal guns. We evaluate each mattress on comfort, support, pressure relief, and temperature control to ensure our findings are backed by peer-reviewed research and verified by medical professionals. This thorough process helps us recommend the best affordable mattresses for different sleep styles and body types.
Best Cheap Mattress Overall: Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress
The Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress is our top pick for the best cheap mattress because of its all-around features that provide optimal cool and comfortable sleep. This medium-firm option contours and cushions pressure points for a doughy, hugging feel that doesn’t sink in too much.
The problem with memory foam is that it often sacrifices support for cushy comfort. It’s almost like brands took “sleeping on a cloud” a little too seriously. Luckily, Nectar’s memory foam mattress bucks the trend all without adding any coils (and keeping that price tag low). In our testing, we found the memory foam material contours to your body for superb pressure relief and motion isolation. This means you can toss and turn without disturbing your partner, which is a huge plus for light sleepers. The foam is CertiPUR-US certified, which means it's free from chemicals and low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that the Environmental Working Group has deemed not so great for human health.
We think Nectar's 100-night trial and 15-year warranty make it a fairly risk-free investment—at least, way less risky than going all-in on crypto. In our testing, we noticed the mattress excels in cooling, thanks to its gel-infused memory foam layer and crisp cover, which help regulate temperature all night—a great feature for sweaty sleepers. With free shipping and returns, Nectar’s memory foam mattress is a great option to try without having to deal with pushy salespeople who prioritize making a quick buck rather than getting a good night’s sleep.
Best Cheap Hybrid Mattress: DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress
The DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress is our top pick for the best cheap hybrid mattress, thanks to its luxury feel (including a bougie cashmere cover) at a bargain price. This swanky hybrid strikes an ideal mix of firm support and plush comfort, designed with maximum airflow, making it a literal dream come true for back sleepers and hot sleepers alike.
In our testing, we found the DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress to be a rockstar in the hybrid category with a firm, supportive feel, rated at 7/10, which makes it excellent for back sleepers. The combo of memory foam and pocketed coils creates an ideal mix of pressure relief and support, so you wake up refreshed and pain-free. Plus, the gel-infused memory foam layer helps keep you cool throughout the night, which is a big win for hot sleepers.
We think the DreamCloud's 365-night trial and lifetime warranty make it an unbeatable value. The mattress also features a cashmere-blend cover for a touch of upscale luxury and breathable comfort, so you’ll forget it's a budget pick. With free shipping and returns, it's hard to find a better deal for a mattress that promises such a high-quality sleep experience. The only downside? It’s a bit heavier than some other hybrids, but the side handles make it easier to move around (you are rotating your mattress every six months, right?).
Best Affordable Mattress in a Box: Brooklyn Bedding Essential Hybrid Mattress
Long gone are the days of having a couple of strangers lugging a mattress into your home, only to create havoc and mayhem (and a few scratches) in your fortress of sleepitude. The advent of ordering mattresses online has created the wonderful phenomenon of the mattress-in-a-box, and our top pick for the best affordable one is the Brooklyn Bedding Essential hybrid mattress. It's a no-frills hybrid that’s perfect for back and stomach sleepers, all at a price that won’t break the bank.
We’d never guess the Brooklyn Bedding Essential Hybrid Mattress came in a box if we hadn’t actually, you know, unboxed it ourselves. The setup process was breezy and the mattress felt supportive yet soft enough to help you doze off. It's made from two layers of high-density foam, followed by an 8-inch section of individually wrapped coils, and then another layer of foam for excellent pressure relief and support. We think this three-punch combo makes the mattress ideal for back and side sleepers. Plus, the quilted cotton/polyester blend cover adds a touch of softness right from the get-go.
It’s also one of the top options for staying cool, with coils and thinner foam that allows for plenty of airflow, unlike foam-only mattresses, which can often trap body heat. With free shipping and a straightforward setup (you can basically just slap it on your bed frame), the Brooklyn Bedding Essential Hybrid Mattress is a no-brainer.
Best Budget Cooling Mattress: Bear Original Memory Foam Mattress
If you or your bedmate tend to get sweaty (when you don’t want to be), go with the Bear Original Memory Foam Mattress. It’s an all-foam mattress with cooling gel memory foam and open-cell construction, so you sleep cooler than the flip side of your pillow.
When we first set out to find the best cheap mattresses, we have to admit we were a little afraid of what we’d actually find in the memory foam department. Memory foam mattresses get a bad rap for trapping heat, and we assumed most budget mattresses would skimp on the cooling features. (We were wrong.) The Bear Original Memory Foam Mattress was, in fact, a heavy hitter in the cooling department during our tests. The graphite gel-infused memory foam layer utilizes graphite particles to absorb and dissipate body heat, so you stay cool throughout the night.
The high-density supportive foam gives the mattress a firm feel that we like for back sleepers or anyone experiencing back pain. You can opt to add the Celliant cover, which is designed to promote recovery and enhance cooling through a process involving infrared energy conversion (we’ll spare you the details). With free shipping, a lifetime warranty, and a straightforward setup, it’s hard to find a better deal for a high-tech cooling mattress that’ll keep you from sweating the bed.
Best Affordable Mattress for Couples: Emma Hybrid Comfort Mattress
.jpg)
The Emma Hybrid Comfort Mattress is a firm, supportive hybrid with excellent motion isolation—i.e. you won’t be able to tell when your bedmate moves—and cooling, making it perfect for couples sharing a bed. Its combination of foam and pocket springs provides the right amount of support and bounce for sleep and sex.
Lest we ever forget that Succession’s own Roman Roy was dressed in Walmart’s best, we’re here to remind you that price and quality are not always at odds. It’s true in this instance too. The Emma Hybrid Comfort Mattress makes it an obvious win for couples looking to stretch their pennies. The combination of airy open-cell foam layers and individually wrapped coils makes your Netflix and chill sesh so much cooler. Plus, the mattress's motion isolation capabilities mean you won't be disturbed by your partner's movements, which is a huge plus for light sleepers.
The firm mattress is ideally supportive for back and stomach sleepers, featuring zoned support for targeted firmness where you need it most without causing stress in sensitive areas. We think the Emma Hybrid Comfort's 365-night trial and 10-year warranty make it an unbeatable value.
Best Cheap Firm Mattress: Silk & Snow Memory Foam Mattress
If you are a back or stomach sleeper (or a combo of these), a firmer option, like the Silk & Snow Memory Foam Mattress, is key for supporting your pelvis and reducing back pain. Made from all foam, it delivers excellent support without sinking, so your spine stays aligned and your chiropractor stops with all the disappointed heavy sighs.
The Silk & Snow Memory Foam Mattress measured up well in our tests for firm support and responsiveness. Rated at a firm 7.5/10, we feel this mattress had a very “on top of bed feel” that makes it easy to move around without feeling stuck.
- GQ RecommendsThe Best Treadmills for Going Nowhere—Fast
Another one of Silk & Snow's unique selling points is an antibacterial cover—ideal for those with allergies—which helps prevent nasties like dust mites, mold, fungi, and bacteria that trigger symptoms like sneezing, snoring, and breathing troubles that leave you wiped the next day. Bonus: It also keeps smells, stains, and dirt away so the mattress stays fresh and lasts longer.
Best Affordable Mattress for Back Pain: Siena Original Memory Foam Mattress
Back pain comes for all of us, and our only job is to keep it at bay for as long as possible. That could mean you start stretching daily, learn to lift with your legs, or buying a mattress that’ll keep your spine aligned. We find that firmer beds are better for alleviating back pain, and one of the best is Siena Original’s memory foam mattress. We give this one props for its excellent support, as well as its minimal sinkage so your body stays as straight as a ruler while you’re snoozing.
In our testing, we found the Siena Original Memory Foam Mattress to be a solid choice for back pain sufferers, with a firmness of 7/10. Its five layers of memory foam (including two layers of gel memory foam for extra pressure relief), stack up to give you the necessary support to prevent back pain, which you may feel after being swallowed by a too-soft mattress. While our top rec for this mattress goes to back sleepers, our testers agree the Siena Original is an on-point option for stomach sleepers who need firm support to keep their pelvis lifted. We noticed minimal sinkage, which is great for sleepers under 250 pounds who need to stay propped up.
Although the Siena is on the firm side, its cover is soft and thick without compromising support. Once out of the box, we felt the mattress took a bit longer to fully form and take shape, but its straightforward design and affordable price point make it a smart choice if you’re dealing with back pain. Plus, with free shipping and returns, it's a risk-free investment in your sleep health.
Let’s Compare the Costs of These Budget Mattresses
Here’s how the best cheap mattresses stack up in terms of price (all for a queen-sized mattress, FYI).
The Mattress Testing Process
We are the collective Benoit Blanc of mattress testing, leaving no stone unturned and slipping into heavy Southern drawls when it just feels right. Our team of writers and certified sleep science coaches that we poll have tried over 500 mattresses and sleep products, all in the name of better sleep. First, we give each mattress a "rest test," which is basically a fancy way of saying we nap on it to see how it feels. But we don't stop there. We use tools like pressure maps and thermal guns to measure how well the mattress relieves pressure, controls temperature, and supports different sleep styles. This hands-on process gives us a 360-degree picture of the mattress's comfort and performance.
But we don't just rely on our own experiences. We back up our findings with the latest peer-reviewed research and consult a network of physical therapists, doctors, and other medical experts to verify any health claims. This means if we say a mattress can help with back pain, you can trust that we've done our homework. Once all the testing and expert reviews are in, we present our insights clearly and concisely, making it easier for you to find the perfect mattress. So, whether you're a side sleeper, back sleeper, or a toss-and-turner, we've got you covered.
What Makes a Mattress More Affordable
So, what makes a mattress easier on the wallet? It all boils down to a few key factors.
Material
Cheaper mattresses often use lower-quality polyfoam and memory foam, like polyurethane, which are budget-friendly but still offer decent support. The type of foam—whether it's high-density or low-density—can also impact the price and comfort level.
Business Model
Direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands like DreamCloud, Silk & Snow, Bear, Nectar Sleep, and the others on this list cut out the middlemen by selling online. This means you get a great mattress without the retail markup.
Lifespan
A well-maintained mattress typically lasts anywhere from 7 to 10 years, but cheaper options might need replacing sooner. While a lower upfront cost is tempting, consider how often you'll need to buy a new one. Balancing initial price with durability and comfort is key to getting the best bang for your buck.
So TL;DR: If you want the best cheap mattress without compromises, keep an eye on the materials, the brand's business model, and how long you can expect it to last.
What to Look for When Shopping for a Cheap Mattress
- GQ RecommendsThe Best Treadmills for Going Nowhere—Fast
Finding a budget-friendly mattress doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your z’s, so long as you know what to look for.
Mattress Type
Different materials offer different benefits, so it's important to pay attention to the mattress type. Memory foam provides good body contouring, while innerspring mattresses offer more bounce and support. Hybrid options combine the best of both worlds.
Sleeping Position
Your sleeping position affects the type of mattress you need. Side sleepers usually need a softer mattress to support their shoulders and hips, while back and stomach sleepers may need a firmer mattress for better spinal alignment.
Body Type
Your body type and weight can affect how much support and comfort you need from a mattress. People over 230 pounds might find a firmer mattress more comfortable to prevent sinking too much, while people under 130 pounds might prefer a softer option.
Warranty
Look for companies that offer a good warranty—ideally, a 15-year or longer warranty period. This way, you can test the mattress at home and feel assured you'll be protected in case of any manufacturing defects.
Trial Period
A solid trial period ensures you actually love your cheap mattress. The best cheap mattress companies typically allow a year-long trial period for real-life sleep testing.
Longevity
Consider how long the mattress is expected to last. While cheaper mattresses might have a lower upfront cost, they may need replacement sooner, affecting their overall value.
How to Keep an Affordable Mattress Comfortable Longer
Keeping your budget-friendly mattress comfy for the long haul doesn't have to be a hassle, just use these simple tips to help extend its lifespan:
- Using a Mattress Topper: Adding a mattress topper can make your mattress feel more comfortable and luxurious. Toppers come in different materials like memory foam, latex, and down, each with their own benefits. Memory foam toppers provide excellent pressure relief, while latex toppers are durable and resist dust mites and mold.
- Rotating the Mattress Often: Make sure to rotate your mattress every three to six months to prevent sagging and ensure even wear. This simple step can greatly extend the life of your mattress and help it remain comfortable and supportive.
- Proper Cleaning and Maintenance: Regularly cleaning your mattress will make it last longer. Vacuum it, clean any stains, and use a mattress protector to keep it fresh and free from allergens, which will create a healthier sleep environment.
- Strategic Placement: We’ll be real here: Sometimes, you just need a good enough mattress in your guest room that won’t break the bank. If that’s why you’re shopping for a cheap mattress, we see you, we hear you, and any of our suggestions will meet the standards of your visiting Boomer parents.
- Proper Support: Keep your mattress well-supported. If your bed frame or box spring is sagging, it can cause your mattress to sag, too, making it less comfortable and reducing its lifespan. Consider using a platform bed or a slatted bed frame for better support.
Who Shouldn't Buy a Cheap Mattress?
While we firmly believe you can find the best possible mattress at every price point, the fact remains that cheap mattresses are often cheap for a reason. That's not to dissuade you from buying one—sometimes, you just need a solid mattress for under a grand—but if you fit any of these descriptions, a more luxe mattress may be in your best interests.
- People with chronic pain: If you live with regular back or hip pain (beyond waking up sore after a tough workout), a cheap mattress may worsen those aches. Budget mattresses can skimp on support, which can misalign your spine and limit pressure relief.
- People who want a long-term investment: Hate to break it to you, but most of the time, a cheap mattress isn't meant to last for years and years. A budget mattress is perfect for short- to medium-term needs (think: a few years or so), but if you truly want to avoid mattress shopping for the next decade, it's probably best to spend more now.
- Light sleepers: Cheap mattresses often score low in our motion transfer tests. If you've been known to awaken every time your partner stirs or your dog (adorably) chases tennis balls in their dreams, a more expensive mattress is likely to have better motion isolation.
FAQ
What is the best time to purchase a new mattress?
The best time to buy a mattress is typically late winter and early spring, around March or April. Holiday weekends like Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, and Black Friday are also prime times for snagging great deals.
Are cheap mattresses comfortable?
While they might not compete with the top-tier options, many cheap mattresses offer good comfort and support for a budget-friendly price. Just keep in mind that comfort can vary based on your body type, sleep position, and personal preferences.
Do cheap mattresses contain fiberglass?
Some cheap mattresses contain fiberglass which is used as a flame retardant. It's a cost-effective material, but if the mattress cover gets damaged, the fiberglass can become exposed and cause irritation or allergies. When in doubt, check the label, as manufacturers have to list all materials used in the mattress. If you spot "fiberglass, "glass fibers," or "glass wool," then the mattress contains fiberglass.
What mattress types are the most affordable?
Foam and innerspring mattresses are usually the most affordable, typically priced between $700 and $1,200 for a queen-size model. Hybrids, latex mattresses, and airbeds tend to be more expensive, but there are still some affordable options available, especially from direct-to-consumer brands.
Resources
- Radwan, A., et al. (2015). Effect of different mattress designs on promoting sleep quality, pain reduction, and spinal alignment in adults with or without back pain; systematic review of controlled trials. https://www.sleephealthjournal.org/article/S2352-7218(15)00140-0/abstract
- Priego Quesada, J., et al. (2016). Assessment of a mattress with phase change materials using a thermal and perception test. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0894177716302941?via%3Dihub
- Okamata-Mizuna, K. and Mizuno, K. (2012). Effects of thermal environment on sleep and circadian rhythm. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22738673/
- Hager, S., et al. (2001). New Technology for Viscoelastic Foam. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1106/TQ0X-NBBV-RPD6-VWHH
- Celliant. (2003-2023). Clinial trials. https://celliant.com/clinical-trials/
- Sinn, C., et al. (2021). Heat Transport in Open-Cell Foams: CFD Analysis of Artificial Heat Sources vs Fully Resolved Exothermal Reactions. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.iecr.0c05982
- Zhang, Y., et al. (2022). The Relationship between Sleeping Position and Sleep Quality: A Flexible Sensor-Based Study. https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/22/16/6220
- Klimek, L., et al. (2023). Avoidance measures for mite allergy—an update. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40629-022-00242-5
- Rijssenbeek-Nouwe, L., et al. (2002). Clinical evaluation of the effect of anti-allergic mattress covers in patients with moderate to severe asthma and house dust mite allergy: a randomised double blind placebo controlled study. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1746424/
- Xi, Y., et al. (2022). Allergy-related outcomes and sleep-related disorders in adults: a cross-sectional study based on NHANES 2005-2006. https://aacijournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13223-022-00669-z
- Mobeen, A., et al. (2023). Effects of mattress firmness and usage duration on low back pain: a hospital-based study from Lahore. https://www.logixsjournals.com/articles/53
What's Your Reaction?
