Best Mattress for the Money 2024

Trust Zoma for expert insights on sleep wellness. Our dedicated team, including sleep science coaches, engineers, and product evaluators, meticulously investigates mattresses using our athlete-informed product methodology. We provide precise and trustworthy articles, continually updating content with the latest scientific breakthroughs. Count on us for top-rated, personally reviewed mattresses that prioritize comfort and performance, elevating your rest to its highest potential.

1. Overall Best Mattress for Money – Zoma Hybrid

2. Best Memory Foam Mattress – AmeriSleep AS3

3. Best Cooling Mattress For Money – Vaya Mattress

4. Best Pressure Relief Mattress for Money – Nolah Original

5. Best Mattress for Couples – Tuft and Needle Original

6. Best Queen Mattress For Money – Brooklyn Bedding Essential

7. Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment – Bear Original

8. Best Motion Isolation Mattress – Nest Bedding Quail

Buying Guide for Best Mattress for Money

  • Value Over Price Tag: When purchasing a mattress on a budget, prioritize value over the price tag alone. Consider factors such as durability, comfort, and features offered relative to the cost. A slightly higher initial investment in a mattress of higher quality may ultimately save money in the long run by providing better comfort and longevity.
  • Explore Budget-Friendly Options: Take advantage of budget-friendly mattress options that offer a balance of quality and affordability. Look for mattresses that utilize cost-effective materials without compromising on comfort or support. Additionally, consider purchasing directly from manufacturers or utilizing online retailers for potential cost savings.
  • Utilize Trial Periods and Warranties: Maximize the value of your mattress purchase by opting for mattresses with generous trial periods and warranties. This allows you to test the mattress in the comfort of your own home and ensures you’re covered in case of any defects or issues that may arise. By leveraging trial periods and warranties, you can make a more confident decision and ensure your investment is protected.

Getting the best bang for your buck isn’t just about the initial price tag when it comes to mattresses. You’ll need to keep in mind many other considerations as you go mattress shopping.

You’ll need to think about the product’s quality since your health depends on your mattress doing its job. You’ll also need to think about durability and what that means for your spending down the road. Remember, the best deal isn’t always the cheapest thing.

Best Mattresses for Money 2024:

We’ve covered a list of the best mattresses for money to help you in your decision-making:

Overall Best Mattress for Money

1. Zoma Hybrid

What is a Hybrid Coil Mattress?
  • Price Range: $749 - $1698
  • Made in USA: Yes
  • Motion Isolation: Yes
  • Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Warranty
10 Years
Sleep Trial
100 Nights
Shipping
Free
Recommended For
  • Individuals seeking a premium hybrid mattress designed to relieve pain, respond to movements, and maintain coolness throughout the night.
  • Athletes and individuals with demanding lifestyles looking for enhanced rest and rejuvenation.
Highlights
  • Cooling gel memory foam for soft, contouring comfort.
  • Responsive layer for a bouncier feel and enhanced movement response.
  • Sturdy base layer for durability and healthy alignment.
  • Breathable AirCloth cover for optimal airflow and moisture-wicking.

When testing Zoma Hybrid Mattress, our reviewers found it to be a premium choice for exceptional comfort and support for individuals seeking relief from pain and a cool sleep environment. Thus, offering the best value for money.

Constructed with cooling gel memory foam, a responsive layer, and a sturdy base, this mattress offers a perfect balance of contouring comfort, responsiveness, and durability.

The breathable AirCloth cover wicks away heat and moisture, ensuring a consistently cool sleep experience. All these features are available in one mattress justify the cost, making it the best value mattress available in the market.

We selected the Zoma Hybrid Mattress for its innovative design, premium materials, and exceptional performance.

Also, we found that its combination of cooling gel memory foam, responsive layer, and sturdy base provides optimal comfort, support, and durability.

Additionally, the breathable AirCloth cover enhances airflow and moisture-wicking for a consistently cool sleep environment.

 

The Zoma Hybrid Mattress is constructed with:

  • Cooling gel memory foam for contouring comfort.
  • Responsive layer for enhanced movement response.
  • Sturdy base layer for durability and healthy alignment.
  • Breathable AirCloth cover for optimal airflow and moisture-wicking.

 

The Zoma Hybrid Mattress offers a luxurious feel with soft, contouring comfort from the cooling gel memory foam.

The responsive layer provides a bouncier feel and ensures enhanced movement response, while the sturdy base layer maintains healthy alignment and durability.

The breathable AirCloth cover contributes to a consistently cool sleep environment, promoting restful and rejuvenating sleep.

Pros

  • Cooling gel memory foam for contouring comfort.
  • Responsive layer for enhanced movement response.
  • Sturdy base layer for durability and healthy alignment.
  • Breathable AirCloth cover for optimal airflow and moisture-wicking.

Cons

  • May not provide sufficient support for heavier individuals.

Best Memory Foam Mattress

2. AmeriSleep AS3

amerisleep as3
  • Price Range: $1499- $2648
  • Made in USA: Yes
  • Motion Isolation: Yes
  • Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King, Split King
Warranty
20 Years
Sleep Trial
100 Nights
Shipping
Free
Recommended For
  • Budget-conscious individuals seeking a high-quality mattress at an affordable price.
Highlights
  • Cooling comfort provided by plant-based Bio-Pur® memory foam.
  • Enhanced airflow and targeted support with exclusive HIVE® technology.
  • Fiberglass-free construction for an eco-friendly and non-toxic sleep environment.
  • Refresh Cover for cooler and more breathable sleep surface.

In the realm of mattresses, the Amerisleep AS3 stands as a beacon of quality and value. Our team of discerning reviewers embarked on a quest to unravel its secrets, and what they discovered left them nodding in approval.

Engineered with cooling Bio-Pur® memory foam and innovative HIVE® technology, this mattress delivers superior comfort, support, and temperature regulation.

Its eco-friendly and non-toxic construction ensures a healthier sleep environment, while the Refresh Cover promotes cooler and more breathable sleep.

Backed by years of research and testing, the Amerisleep AS3 mattress offers unbeatable value for individuals looking to invest in their sleep without breaking the bank.

We selected the Amerisleep AS3 mattress for its outstanding value for money.

Despite its affordable price point, this mattress offers premium features such as cooling Bio-Pur® memory foam and targeted support with HIVE® technology.

Its eco-friendly and non-toxic construction further enhances its appeal, providing a healthier sleep environment.

Also, our team of reviewers was impressed with its unbeatable combination of quality and affordability. The Amerisleep AS3 mattress is definitely one of the top choices for budget-conscious shoppers seeking a superior sleep experience.

The Amerisleep AS3 mattress is constructed with:

  • Cooling Bio-Pur® memory foam for temperature regulation and comfort.
  • Exclusive HIVE® technology for targeted support and enhanced airflow.
  • Refresh Cover for cooler and more breathable sleep surface.

The AS3 isn’t a mattress; it’s a harmonious symphony. The Bio-Pur® foam provides the soft notes, while HIVE® adds the bassline of support.

Together, they create a perfect balance—a sweet spot where your spine aligns, your dreams flourish, and your wallet remains pleasantly intact.

So go ahead, rest easy. The AS3 has your back (literally).

Pros

  • Exceptional value for money with premium features at an affordable price.
  • Cooling Bio-Pur® memory foam for temperature regulation.
  • Targeted support and enhanced airflow with HIVE® technology.

Cons

  • May not provide sufficient support for heavier individuals.

Best Cooling Mattress For Money

3. Vaya Mattress

vaya mattress
  • Price Range: $749 - $1199
  • Made In USA: Yes
  • Motion Isolation: Yes
  • Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
Warranty
10 Years
Sleep Trial
100 Nights
Shipping
Free
Recommended For
  • Individuals seeking affordable yet comfortable sleep solutions without compromising on quality.
  • Those looking for a mattress that offers a perfect blend of support, comfort, and temperature regulation at a budget-friendly price.
Highlights
  • Perfect blend of bounce and support to relieve pressure points.
  • Breathable Vaya Comfort Foam for cool and comfortable sleep.
  • Durable support for proper spine alignment, suitable for all sleeping positions.

According to reviewers, the Vaya Mattress is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality or comfort.

It is engineered with simplicity in mind; it features two layers of Vaya Foam designed to provide optimal support and pressure relief.

The Vaya Comfort Foam contours to the body for a comfortable sleep experience, while the Vaya Base Foam offers stable support to relieve pressure points and maintain proper spine alignment. The Vaya Mattress doesn’t merely invite rest; it envelops you in a cocoon of luxury.

Its open-cell design ensures continuous airflow, keeping you as fresh as a dew-kissed morning.

Worried about your wallet? The Vaya Mattress is akin to a budget-friendly bistro. Quality without the financial jitters!

 

We selected the Vaya Mattress for its exceptional value and affordability.

Despite its budget-friendly price, the Vaya Mattress delivers on comfort, support, and temperature regulation, making it a top choice for individuals looking to maximize their sleep quality without overspending.

We loved how its simple yet effective design ensures a comfortable and restful sleep experience night after night, making it a smart investment for those on a budget.

The Vaya Mattress is constructed with:

  • Vaya Comfort Foam: Contours to the body for comfort and features an open-cell design for breathability.
  • Vaya Base Foam: Provides stable support to relieve pressure points and maintain proper spine alignment.

The Vaya Mattress embraces you with a gentle yet resilient touch.

Its plush surface cradles tired muscles, while the underlying support ensures proper spinal alignment. Imagine sinking into a cloud but with impeccable posture.

That’s the essence of Vaya.

Pros

  • Affordable price point without compromising on quality.
  • Comfortable and supportive design suitable for all sleeping positions.
  • Breathable materials for cool and comfortable sleep.
  • Compatible with most bed frames for added convenience.

Cons

  • Limited availability in terms of size options.
  • May lack advanced features found in higher-priced mattresses.

Best Pressure Relief Mattress for Money

4. Nolah Original

nolah original
  • Price Range: $999 - $2398
  • Made in USA: Yes
  • Motion Isolation: Yes
  • Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Short Queen, King, Short King, Cal King, Split King
Warranty
Lifetime
Sleep Trial
120 Nights
Shipping
Free
Recommended For
  • Budget-conscious individuals seeking a high-quality mattress that offers exceptional comfort and support.
  • Side sleepers looking for targeted flexibility and pressure relief without sacrificing affordability.
Highlights
  • Affordable price point without compromising on quality or comfort.
  • Cooling Tencel™ cover regulates temperature for a comfortable sleep experience.
  • Zoned AirFoam™ provides targeted flexibility and firmness, ideal for side sleepers.

The manufacturers have designed the Nolah Original 10″ Mattress to deliver unparalleled comfort and support at an unbeatable price.

As it is made with layers of resilient foam, including the innovative Zoned AirFoam™, the Nolah Original mattress offers gentle contouring, soothing pressure relief, and a medium-firmness feel.

Also, the reviewers liked the specialized cooling Tencel™ cover that ensures a comfortable sleep temperature, while the zoned design of the AirFoam™ layer provides targeted flexibility and firmness.

With its affordable price point and versatile design, the Nolah Original Mattress is a top choice for budget-conscious individuals seeking a restful night’s sleep.

When it comes to choosing a mattress, discerning buyers seek that sweet spot—where quality and affordability intertwine. Enter the Nolah Original Mattress. Here’s why it stands out:

We handpicked the Nolah Original for its remarkable value proposition. Despite its wallet-friendly price, this mattress doesn’t skimp on comfort. Imagine sinking into a cloud, but with impeccable lumbar support. It’s like a spa day for your spine without the spa price tag.

The Nolah Original isn’t your run-of-the-mill mattress. Its Tencel™ cover keeps you cool, even during heatwaves (no more sweaty nights!). And the Zoned AirFoam™ layer? It’s like having a personal sleep engineer—adjusting support where you need it most.

The Nolah Original Mattress is constructed with:

  • Cooling Tencel™ Cover: Ultra-soft, breathable cover that regulates temperature for a comfortable sleep experience.
  • Zoned AirFoam™: Innovative foam layer with targeted flexibility and firmness, providing gentle contouring and pressure relief.

The Nolah Original Mattress offers a medium-firmness feel with gentle contouring and soothing pressure relief.

The cooling Tencel™ cover ensures a comfortable sleep temperature, while the Zoned AirFoam™ layer provides targeted support and flexibility, making it ideal for side sleepers.

Overall, this mattress offers a balanced combination of comfort and support, suitable for a wide range of sleepers.

Pros

  • Affordable price point without sacrificing quality or comfort.
  • Cooling Tencel™ cover regulates temperature for a comfortable sleep experience.
  • Zoned AirFoam™ provides targeted flexibility and support, ideal for side sleepers.
  • Versatile design suitable for various sleep positions and preferences.

Cons

  • Limited availability in terms of size options.
  • May lack advanced features found in higher-priced mattresses.

Best Mattress for Couples

5. Tuft and Needle Original

tuft and needle original
  • Price Range: $645 - $1295
  • Made in USA: Yes
  • Motion Isolation: Yes
  • Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
Warranty
10 Years
Sleep Trial
100 Nights
Shipping
Free
Recommended For
  • Budget-conscious individuals seeking a high-quality mattress with bounce-back support and breathability.
  • Back and stomach sleepers looking for a comfortable and supportive sleep surface.
Highlights
  • T&N Adaptive® foam technology provides bounce-back support and breathability for a comfortable sleep experience.
  • Open-cell cooling technology infused with cooling gel and heat-conducting graphite helps regulate temperature for a cooler sleep.
  • Designed to reduce motion transfer, making it ideal for couples or restless sleepers.

The next mattress on our list of the best mattresses for money is the Tuft and Needle Original. We discovered that T&N Adaptive® foam technology is behind this mattress. It helps to provide bounce-back support and breathability, ensuring a comfortable and restful sleep. Its open-cell structure offers a flexible sleep surface that responds and adjusts with the sleeper, providing targeted pressure relief where needed.

Additionally, our reviewers valued the cooling gel and heat-conducting graphite features, along with a breathable construction, to regulate temperature and promote a cooler sleep environment.

Designed for back and stomach sleepers, the Tuft and Needle Original Mattress offers the perfect balance of comfort and support at an affordable price point.

We selected the Tuft and Needle Original Mattress for its exceptional value and innovative features.

The T&N Adaptive® foam technology provides superior support and breathability, ensuring a comfortable sleep experience for all types of sleepers.

We also loved its cooling properties and motion control design that makes it a top choice for individuals seeking a budget-friendly mattress without compromising on quality or comfort.

The Tuft and Needle Original Mattress is made of:

  • T&N Adaptive® Foam: Engineered foam technology that provides bounce-back support and breathability.
  • Cooling Gel and Heat-Conducting Graphite: Infused into the foam layers to regulate temperature and promote a cooler sleep environment.

The Tuft and Needle Original Mattress offers a balanced feel with bounce-back support and breathability.

The T&N Adaptive® foam technology adapts to the sleeper’s body, providing targeted pressure relief and support.

Its cooling properties ensure a comfortable sleep temperature, while its motion control design helps reduce motion transfer for undisturbed sleep.

Pros

  • Affordable price point without compromising on quality or comfort.
  • T&N Adaptive® foam technology provides bounce-back support and breathability.
  • Cooling gel and heat-conducting graphite regulate temperature for a cooler sleep.
  • Designed to reduce motion transfer, making it ideal for couples.

Cons

  • May not offer the same level of customization or advanced features as higher-priced mattresses.
  • Limited availability in terms of size options.

Best Queen Mattress For Money

6. Brooklyn Bedding Essential

  • Price Range: $532- $1132
  • Made in USA: Yes
  • Motion Isolation: Yes
  • Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
Warranty
10 Years
Sleep Trial
120 Nights
Shipping
Free
Recommended For
  • Budget-conscious individuals seeking a quality mattress with essential comfort features.
  • Sleepers of all ages and sleep styles looking for pressure relief, motion isolation, and superior support.
Highlights
  • Smart design and pricing, utilizing materials from Brooklyn Bedding's luxury mattress line to offer affordability without compromising quality.
  • Hybrid design catering to every body type, providing support and pressure relief for aches and pains.
  • Essential comfort elements including pressure relief, motion isolation, and superior support without unnecessary extras.

When looking for the best mattresses for money, Brooklyn Bedding’s Essential mattress cannot be ignored.

The Brooklyn Bedding Essential mattress offers essential comfort features at a smart price point.

It combines premium materials to provide support and pressure relief for a variety of sleepers, according to our experts. The mattress features individually wrapped steel coils and high-density foam, ensuring durability and lasting comfort for years to come.

We selected the Brooklyn Bedding Essential mattress for its exceptional value and essential comfort features.

Our reviewers believe that by utilizing materials from their luxury mattress line and cutting out the middleman, Brooklyn Bedding is able to offer a high-quality mattress at an affordable price.

The hybrid design provides the perfect balance of support and pressure relief, making it suitable for sleepers of all ages and sleep styles.

The Brooklyn Bedding Essential mattress is made of:

  • AscensionX® Coils: Premium steel coils rolled in-house for perfect response and flexibility.
  • High-Density Foams: Lightweight and breathable foams designed for comfort and durabili

The Brooklyn Bedding Essential mattress offers a universal medium feel, providing the perfect balance of comfort and support.

Its hybrid construction ensures responsiveness to every movement, while the high-density foams and individually wrapped coils offer pressure relief and motion isolation.

Pros

  • Smart design and pricing for affordability without sacrificing quality.
  • Hybrid construction catering to every body type and sleep style.
  • Essential comfort features including pressure relief, motion isolation, and superior support.
  • 10-year warranty for lasting peace of mind.

Cons

  • May lack some of the advanced features found in higher-priced mattresses.
  • Limited customization options compared to luxury mattress lines.

Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment

7. Bear Original

bear original
  • Price Range: $786- $1690
  • Made In USA: Yes
  • Motion Isolation: Yes
  • Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King, Split King
Warranty
Lifetime
Sleep Trial
120 Nights
Shipping
Free
Recommended For
  • Budget-conscious shoppers seeking a high-quality mattress with great cooling and comfort features.
  • Sleepers looking for a balanced feel with excellent support and motion isolation.
  • Couples who prioritize motion isolation for undisturbed sleep.
Highlights
  • Breathable quilted cover for lasting softness and breathability.
  • Optional Celliant Infused Cover with Sleep Recovery Technology™ for temperature regulation and enhanced recovery.
  • Cooling gel memory foam for heat dissipation and improved spinal alignment.
  • Bear Dynamic Foam for balanced support and superior pressure relief.

The Bear Original mattress offers exceptional cooling and comfort at an unbeatable value based on the testers’ reviews.

Its 10″ design features a breathable quilted cover, cooling gel memory foam, Bear Dynamic Foam, and high-density support foam.

The optional Celliant Infused Cover utilizes Sleep Recovery Technology™ to regulate body temperature and promote recovery and well-being. All these features at the current price point surely makes it one of the best contenders for this list.

We selected the Bear Original mattress for its outstanding cooling and comfort features combined with its remarkable value.

With a focus on providing lasting support and pressure relief, this mattress offers an unbeatable combination of quality and affordability.

The optional Celliant Infused Cover further enhances its benefits, making it a top choice for budget-conscious shoppers seeking a high-quality bed.

The Bear Original mattress is made of:

  • Breathable quilted cover for softness and breathability.
  • Cooling gel memory foam for heat dissipation and spinal alignment.
  • Bear Dynamic Foam for balanced support and pressure relief.
  • High-density support foam for durability.

 

According to the testers, the Bear Original mattress offers a balanced feel with excellent support and motion isolation.

The combination of cooling gel memory foam and Bear Dynamic Foam ensures a comfortable sleep surface that contours to the body while providing necessary support.

According to one expert, sleepers can expect a cool, comfortable, and supportive night’s rest with Bear Original mattress on their beds.

Pros

  • Great cooling and comfort features at an affordable price.
  • Optional Celliant Infused Cover for enhanced temperature regulation and recovery.
  • Balanced support and superior pressure relief.
  • Excellent motion isolation, ideal for couples.

Cons

  • Some users may prefer a firmer or softer feel depending on personal preferences.
  • Optional Celliant Infused Cover may come at an additional cost.

Best Motion Isolation Mattress

8. Nest Quail Memory Foam Mattress

nest quail
  • Price Range: $849 - $1499
  • Made in USA: Yes
  • Motion Isolation: Yes
  • Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Split CK, Full, Queen, King, Cal. King.
Warranty
Lifetime
Sleep Trial
365 Nights
Shipping
Free
Recommended For
  • Sleepers seeking a breathable all-foam design for cooling comfort.
  • Individuals looking for a mattress with the perfect combination of bounce and support.
  • Those who prefer supportive performance-enhanced foams with edge support.
Highlights
  • Utilizes Energex™ temperature-responsive foam for cooling and conforming to side sleepers.
  • Offers a perfect balance of bounce and support, ideal for hot and passionate nights.
  • Features Thermic Phase Change Cooling Fabrics to promote cool sleep throughout the night.

Last but not least, the Nest Quail Mattress is also amongst the top contenders for the best value-for-money mattresses.

Quail responsive foam mattress is designed to offer exceptional breathability and support at an affordable price point. When tested, Energex™ temperature-responsive foam infused with minerals and materials was found that naturally pulls heat away from the body, ensuring a cool and comfortable sleep experience.

With its unique Air Flow Layer and Thermic Phase Change Cooling Fabrics, this mattress provides superior cooling properties, making it an excellent choice for hot sleepers.

We also found that the supportive performance-enhanced foams offer edge-to-edge support, allowing sleepers to rest close to the edge without feeling unstable.

We selected the Quail responsive foam mattress for its innovative design and exceptional cooling properties.

The combination of Energex™ foam and Thermic Phase Change Cooling Fabrics ensures a comfortable and refreshing sleep environment, making it an excellent value for those seeking a budget-friendly mattress with advanced features.

The Quail responsive foam mattress is made of:

  • Energex™ temperature-responsive foam for cooling and conforming comfort.
  • Air Flow Layer for enhanced breathability.
  • Thermic Phase Change Cooling Fabrics for cool sleep throughout the night.
  • Performance-enhanced foams for even weight distribution and edge support.

 

The Quail mattress offers a balanced feel with the perfect combination of bounce and support.

Acccording to our reviewers’ team, sleepers can expect a cool and comfortable sleep surface that conforms to their body while providing adequate support and motion isolation.

The mattress’s edge support ensures stability, allowing sleepers to utilize the entire sleep surface without feeling unstable.

Pros

  • Exceptional breathability and cooling properties.
  • Perfect balance of bounce and support for a comfortable sleep experience.
  • Performance-enhanced foams offer even weight distribution and edge support.

Cons

  • May not be suitable for those who prefer a firmer or softer feel.
  • Limited information available on the mattress’s construction and materials.

Considerations for Buying a Mattress

When you’re thinking about how much a mattress will cost, you’ll need to take more into consideration than just its sticker price. Naturally, a mattress’ sticker price will have an impact on its value, but it’s just one of several considerations you’ll need to take into account.

Durability

A mattress’ durability, or how long the mattress lasts, decides how much you’ll pay for each year of use. The longer a mattress lasts, the less you pay for it per year. So even if you pay a lot for a mattress upfront, you could wind up recouping those costs and saving money in the long run.

For instance, if you pay $2,000 for a mattress that lasts 20 years, you’ve paid $100 per year for that mattress. But if you pay $1,500 for a mattress that lasts 10 years, it costs you $150 per year of use.

In terms of mattresses with good longevity, natural materials are more durable than synthetic ones. That means latex is the thing to look for if you don’t want to replace your mattress often. The tradeoff is that latex foam is pricier than the synthetic foam found inside memory foam mattresses.

While it’s relatively easy to find a high-quality memory foam mattress under $1000, shoppers may struggle to find a latex mattress that’s just as inexpensive, unless they choose to go for one of the smaller mattress sizes.

There’s also comfort to consider, as some sleepers simply prefer memory foam to latex foam when it comes to feel. Latex foam can be more buoyant while memory foam tends to hug the body more closely. Which is better when it comes to sleeping well is typically just a matter of personal preference.

Another thing to watch out for if you want durability is a coil support layer. Coils break down faster than support foam. So if you want a mattress built for longevity, you’ll need to steer clear of coils, especially open coils like those found in traditional innerspring beds.

Initial Price

Of course, the sticker price of your mattress does have a huge impact on its overall cost after years of use. If two mattresses last the same amount of time, the one with the lowest initial price will be the one that costs less over time as well.

The more durable mattresses don’t always win out over the lower-cost ones in terms of value. A mattress that has an excessively high sticker price will likely never last long enough to make up for it in terms of the annual cost.

That’s why if you want the best deal, you want a balance of durability and initial cost. Look for a durable mattress that you won’t have to replace too often, but that also sports a sticker price that isn’t too outrageous.

Shipping and Delivery

One of the highest costs people often forget about is shipping. Mattresses are bulky and heavy, so they’re not cheap to ship. Many companies nowadays offer free shipping because they’ve worked out a deal for bulk pricing with the nation’s largest parcel services.

Of course, free delivery isn’t really free. It’s baked into the price of the mattress. However, you want to make sure you’re getting your shipping costs covered because otherwise, you’ll be forking over the money for delivery yourself. If you don’t see the words “free shipping” or “free delivery,” you could be on the hook for delivery fees that can rise into the triple digits.

Bed Base

If you buy a heavy mattress, you might be paying more to replace your box springs. Many new mattress models (like memory foam. latex and hybrid mattresses) are way too heavy for traditional box spring sets. That means you’ll have to buy a mattress foundation or platform bed.

These can be much more expensive than plain old box springs. On the flip side, foundations and platform beds are much sturdier than box springs and will last much longer.

Platform beds can also save you money because they don’t require an additional bed base as traditional bed frames do. You can just lay your mattress directly on top of a platform bed as you would with a box spring. See our box spring vs platform bed guide for an in-depth comparison of their pros and cons.

How to Know You’re Buying a Quality Mattress

Don’t fall into the trap of focusing on getting a good deal and forgetting about quality and comfort. A mattress that you paid an awesome price for won’t do you much good if it doesn’t provide you with proper spinal support and pressure relief.

To do its job as the most comfortable mattress for you, it has to be made of quality materials and constructed using the right techniques. But how can you, as a consumer, tell whether these criteria were met? There are several clues that can help give you some ideas.

Transparency

One of the biggest ways to tell a quality mattress from a cheap piece of junk is how transparent its seller is. Ask yourself a few questions as you’re looking at a potential new mattress:

  • Does this manufacturer illustrate and discuss the different layers of their mattress?
  • Do they talk about where they source the materials that go into this mattress?
  • Do they have a list of certifications that attest to material purity and safety?
  • Do their mattress reviews indicate they offer reliable and responsive customer service?

If a manufacturer is proud of the product they’ve made, they’ll talk about it in detail. They’ll also have lots of satisfied customers talking about it online (unless it’s a brand new product). Mattress companies that don’t say a whole lot about what they’re selling might have something to hide.

Warranty

Mattress companies that know they’ve made a quality product will offer a warranty to back it up. Generally speaking, you should look for a warranty that lasts no fewer than 10 years. You should also read the fine print to ensure the warranty doesn’t have a bunch of loopholes that allow the manufacturer to deny coverage they should be providing.

You should also look specifically at the warranty’s sagging coverage, which varies from brand to brand. Some mattress brands won’t offer a replacement until the sagging is close to 2 inches, while others offer protection on sagging once it exceeds an inch. Yes, it’s best to choose a mattress that won’t sag, but it’s also good to know what options you have if you do end up with a defective mattress.

Sleep Trial

The sleep trial is another good indicator of how a mattress manufacturer feels about their product. Mattress companies that know you’ll like what they offer are willing to back that assumption with a few months of risk-free sleep. During the trial period, you can sleep on the mattress in your own home and return it for a full refund for any reason.

You should look for a minimum of a 100-night sleep trial. You should also make sure you spot the words “risk-free” or “money-back guarantee” or something similar. That way, you know you won’t have to fight for your money back if you do decide to return your mattress.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the mattress type with the lowest initial price?

The most affordable mattress in terms of sticker price is the innerspring mattress. These mattresses average out to be $950 for a queen size. However, there is a catch. Innerspring beds might be the cheapest type of mattress upfront, but they’re also the least durable mattress type. That means they’re not the most affordable mattress overall.

If you want the most affordable mattress overall, go for memory foam. Memory foam beds have a slightly higher initial price than innerspring ones: $1,100 for a queen on average.

However, innerspring mattresses will only last five to 10 years, while memory foam mattresses will last between 10 and 20 years. That means you will almost always wind up paying less for memory foam.

What’s the most durable mattress material?

If you want a bed you won’t have to think about replacing for a long time, go for natural latex (especially Dunlop latex). Natural Dunlop latex whips every other mattress material in terms of life expectancy. The second most durable material, memory foam, will last up to 20 years. But latex foam will last a minimum of 20 years and maybe even longer.

Keep in mind this only holds true for an all-latex mattress. Latex hybrids still have coils, and coils lose tension. Eventually, this causes them to break down and sag. So latex hybrids will not last as long as pure latex mattresses because even if the latex foam on top is still good, the coils underneath will sag underneath it after 15 to 20 years.

Will a mattress warranty cover my mattress if it sags?

That depends. Most mattress warranties do cover premature sagging. So if your warranty lasts 10 years but your mattress sags in seven, then the manufacturer should cover it, assuming they have not written in a loophole that allows them to evade responsibility.

That’s why it’s vital for you to read all of a warranty’s fine print so you can be aware of what they’ll cover for how long and under what circumstances.

Also, if your mattress sags after your warranty’s coverage has expired, then it won’t cover that or any other issues. So be aware of when your warranty coverage started, so you can know if you’re still in your coverage window.

What's the best memory foam mattress for the money?

The Zoma Original and Zoma Start are both amazing mattresses in terms of value and quality. If you want an excellent performance mattress that delivers all the bells and whistles, including cooling and targeted pressure relief, go for the Zoma Mattress.

Those who are willing to sacrifice a little bit of luxury to get a lower sticker price can take a look at the Zoma Start. Just remember, whichever one of these memory foam beds you choose, you can still expect 10 years of amazing sleep.

What's the best hybrid mattress for the money?

The Zoma Hybrid is the best value hybrid out there. It boasts a solid coil count, multiple layers of comforting foams, and a combination of cooling technologies—all for a very reasonable price. Most hybrids on the market today cost several thousand dollars.

However, the Zoma Hybrid won’t even cost you more than $1,000 unless you go up to a king size. That means those who want a fantastic feel and competitive durability without shelling out thousands of dollars would do well to check out this hybrid mattress.

Bottom Line

Getting the best value out of your mattress isn’t just about finding the cheapest mattress out there.

It’s about getting the best quality at the most reasonable price. Measures of quality include durability, comfort, and the use of safe and sturdy materials. The best mattresses like this at a price most can afford are the gold standard of value.

This article is for informational purposes and should not replace advice from your doctor or other medical professional.

James Nguyen, Sleep Expert James Nguyen

James Nguyen is Zoma's resident sleep expert and staff writer. James enjoys learning about the newest technologies in the mattress industry and doing deep dives into the science of sleep. He's tried nearly every gadget and gizmo in an effort to determine which sleep-promoting accessories can truly enhance your shut-eye. Outside of work, James takes his dedication to get healthy sleep seriously, and has even declared himself an "expert napper." James' research has been featured on Thrive Global and other media.

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