A good night’s sleep is reliant on the right mattress—but that doesn’t mean the right mattress has to be expensive. Mattress prices vary drastically with several elements influencing price, including size, materials and construction. All-foam and innerspring mattresses (or a hybrid of the two) tend to be the least expensive, with prices starting at about $250.
If you’re on a strict budget while looking for a new mattress, we’ve rounded up the best cheap mattresses. Our list includes items costing $400 or less, and most are shipped directly to you in a box.
To curate the best cheap mattresses of 2022, the Dream Advisor editorial team analyzed data across over 650 mattresses marketwide. Rankings were based on cost, material make up, sleep-trial lengths, shipping options, warranty details and more. Note: Prices are accurate as of publication. Mattress price and availability are subject to change. This ranking focuses specifically on queen-sized mattresses.
Linenspa 10-Inch Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress
Price: Price: $299 | Type: Hybrid | Firmness: Medium
Linenspa 10-Inch Latex Hybrid Mattress
Price: Price: $299 | Type: Hybrid | Firmness: Medium
Wayfair Sleep 8-Inch Medium Memory Foam Mattress
Price: Price: $274.99 | Type: Memory foam | Firmness: Medium-firm
Wayfair Sleep Arviso 10-Inch Medium Gel Memory Foam Mattress
Price: Price: $359.99 | Type: Memory foam | Firmness: Medium
Inofia 6- And 8-Inch Memory Foam Mattress
Price: Price: $349 | Type: Memory foam | Firmness: Medium
Signature Design By Ashley Chime 10-Inch Medium Firm Hybrid Mattress
Price: Price: $299.99 | Type: Hybrid | Firmness: Medium
Inofia 6- And 8-Inch Memory Foam Mattress Made In USA
Price: Price: $379.99 | Type: Memory foam | Firmness: Medium
Methodology
To determine the best cheap mattresses of 2022, Dream Advisor analyzed and ranked data from over 650 mattresses. Rankings were based on:
- Price
- Free shipping availability
- Free returns availability
- Sleep trail availability and length
- Warranty length and details
- Mattress thickness
- Mattress firmness
- Pillow top option availability
- The brand’s reputation in the industry
Mattresses in this list are based on queen-sized models. All star rankings are determined solely by the editorial team.
Is It Worth Buying a Cheap Mattress?
Buying a cheap mattress doesn’t always mean buying one of lower quality. Factors that influence a mattress’s price include size, mattress type, materials and added features such as cooling or pressure relief. Depending on your needs, it’s possible to find a mattress to fit any budget. When searching for a mattress at lower cost, it’s important to also consider longevity, as some materials last longer than others. Mattresses typically last seven to 10 years.
As some inexpensive mattresses are made from memory foam or a foam-spring hybrid, it’s worth considering the quality of the foam. Low-density memory foam is soft, molds to your body and absorbs motion, but it can vary in quality and contain chemicals if it’s not CertiPUR-US certified. A mattress made of low-density foam will likely not last as long as those made with higher quality foam or latex.
Who Should Buy a Cheap Mattress?
For anyone on a budget, a cheap mattress offers a good option. They’re also well-suited for first apartments, children’s bedrooms or guest rooms. Customers looking for high-density foam support or who want a mattress made with natural, organic or eco-friendly materials might find those mattresses come at a higher cost. However, many cheap mattresses are CertiPUR-US certified.
What to Consider When Buying a Cheap Mattress
Before buying a cheap mattress, consider the following factors:
- Mattress size. Think about how many co-sleepers will use the bed, how much sleeping room you prefer and the size of your bedroom so you’re buying the right size mattress. Smaller mattresses will tend to be less expensive than queen- and king-sized models.
- Firmness. The firmness level of your mattress will determine how much support you receive. Choose a mattress that will serve your sleeping needs and provide the right amount of support to ensure a comfortable night’s rest.
- Sleep position. Being a back, stomach or side sleeper often requires different kinds of support. Make sure to select a mattress that will offer the right amount of support for your preferred sleeping position.
- Mattress materials. Some cheaper mattresses are made from lower-quality materials. Look for mattresses that are CertiPUR-US certified to avoid harmful chemicals—and for those made with high-density foams to ensure the mattress will last.
- Sleep trials and return policies. Check a company’s return policy and sleep trial period before you buy. This will ensure you’re able to sleep on the mattress before making the purchase.