Best Mattresses Under $1,000

A strict budget can feel restrictive, but that’s not always the case with mattress shopping. Although a mattress is often a big investment, many manufacturers sell high-quality models at reasonable prices.

Even on a budget, mattress shoppers have no shortage of options, so you will need to narrow your search to find the best model for you. The main details to consider are your weight range, sleep position, and personal preferences, as these attributes affect support and comfort.

In addition to covering some of the best mattress models available in this price range, we will include tips and information to assist you in making a wise purchasing decision. Note that while some queen mattresses we’ll discuss list for over $1,000, smaller sizes and/or promotional discount pricing fall below this price-point.

Watch Video: We Tested the Best Mattresses Under $1,000 – Here Are Our Favorites

Our sleep experts offer an in-depth look at some of our top mattress picks under $1,000. Watch the video below to see how each mattress performed when put to the test in our lab.

Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides

If you want to expand your search for a new bed beyond mattresses under $1,000, take a look at our recommendations categorized by mattress price.

How to Choose a Mattress Under $1,000

Just because you’re working with a limited budget doesn’t mean you have to settle for a low-quality mattress. While a higher spending limit can open up more options, plenty of great mattresses are available for under $1,000.

When shopping for an affordable mattress, there are several details to consider. If you want to find the best possible deal, weighing these factors can help you find the most cost-effective option for your needs and preferences.

What to Look for in a Mattress

When shopping for a mattress, you’ll probably come across an abundance of mattress terminology and marketing promotions. While it’s easy to be drawn in, you’re most likely to be happy with your purchase if you focus on the nuts-and-bolts of the mattress.

These factors are the most essential to look for, and thinking about which matter the most to you lets you shrink your options and clarify which brand and model is the best match for you.

Price
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to find something that will suit your needs. Many budget models perform well in key areas regardless of their cost. More importantly than price, however, shoppers should consider value. An inexpensive mattress may ultimately cost the consumer more if it needs to be replaced sooner due to quality issues. At the same time, a more expensive mattress could be a better value if it has a long lifespan and an enhanced performance.

Sleeping Position
Sleeping position is essential to consider when you shop for a mattress. It may be especially critical for budget shoppers, since they may not have the extra funds to modify their surface with a topper or other accessories if the mattress isn’t ideal. If you’re a side sleeper, you should generally look for a model that is highly rated for pressure relief. Back and stomach sleepers typically need a firmer model with enough support to promote proper spinal alignment.

Quality Materials
Although shopping within a budget might make it difficult to get a mattress with certain features, you should still be able to find a model with high-quality components. Selecting the best quality possible can improve the bed’s life expectancy.

Firmness Level
The firmness level can often impact how well a mattress performs for certain body types and sleep positions. Generally, most sleepers prefer a medium or medium firm mattress. However, individuals who weigh less than 130 pounds may favor a softer model, especially if they sleep on their sides. Those who weigh more than 230 pounds may need a firmer option for extra support, particularly if they sleep on their backs or stomachs.

Pressure Relief
If you need relief for pressure points, such as your shoulders or hips, consider a mattress with memory foam, polyfoam, latex, or other materials that contour to the body to redistribute its weight. While certain types of innerspring coils can also provide pressure relief, mattresses with substantial foam layers usually perform best in this area.

Motion Isolation
Light sleepers sometimes wake up at the slightest hint of movement from their partners. A mattress with strong motion isolation absorbs these vibrations to reduce sleep disruptions. Memory foam and polyfoam models tend to perform noticeably well in this area, but other materials can also limit motion transfer.

Temperature Regulation
If you tend to get uncomfortably warm in bed, you may prefer a mattress with strong temperature regulation. Breathable materials allow heat to escape, but other components, like phase change materials and special infusions, are designed specifically for cooling.

Edge Support
One of the most common problems with low-cost mattresses is sagging. A sturdy edge can enhance the structural integrity of the bed and allow you to use the full surface of the mattress. Models with coil cores usually earn the highest marks in this category, but firmer all-foam models can also perform well.

Contouring
Contouring refers to how well the materials of a mattress cradle the body. When a mattress conforms to the sleeper’s shape, it spreads out their weight to relieve pressure and support the spine. Contouring can be especially important for side sleepers since their hips and shoulders typically press harder against the sleep surface.

Mattress Type
The most common types of mattresses include innerspring, hybrid, all-foam, and latex. Innerspring and all-foam models are usually most affordable, but all mattress types have potential benefits that may make them ideal for some sleepers.

Mattress Types

There are a few different styles of mattresses on the market today, and each has slight variations that make it distinct. While there are some commonalities between mattresses of the same type, each model is unique, so performance may vary.

Hybrid

A hybrid model combines elements from two or more other mattress types. Coils typically make up the support core, while the comfort system usually uses polyfoam, memory foam, and/or latex. This combination of materials typically results in a mattress that rates well in many different categories.

Hybrid models are often more expensive than other mattress types, but budget-friendly options are also available.

Innerspring

Innerspring mattresses have been popular for over a century, and they are often very cost-effective. While coils are usually the main component, many modern models also include additional thin layers of polyfoam or memory foam for cushioning.

While innerspring models usually excel in responsiveness, temperature regulation, and edge support, they may not provide the motion isolation and pressure relief some sleepers prefer. However, some budget shoppers may choose to buy an innerspring mattress and a topper to create a hybrid-like feel.

Foam

As the name implies, an all-foam mattress uses memory foam, polyfoam, or a combination of both. The comfort and transition layers may use memory foam or polyfoam, while the core generally consists of high-density polyfoam. Budget models often rely more heavily on polyfoam, which tends to be more breathable and responsive than memory foam. However, it also doesn’t hug as closely to the body and low-density varieties may be less durable. Some foam models also add layers of latex, but these are typically less common and more expensive.

An all-foam mattress can be particularly suitable for side sleepers who experience pain from pressure points, as the materials cradle the shape of the body to spread out its weight.

Latex

Latex mattresses may use natural, synthetic, or blended latex. Natural latex models are the most common, and they’re usually more expensive than other models due to the cost of this material. The advantage of latex is that it relieves pressure while also pushing back against the sleeper’s body, which means sleepers shouldn’t sink too far into the mattress. Some sleepers compare this to a floating sensation.

Natural latex also tends to be more environmentally friendly than most synthetic foam, making it a popular choice with eco-conscious shoppers.

While the higher price-point of a high-quality latex model may not appeal to some budget shoppers, the durability of the material may make it a good investment.

What Can Affect the Price of a Mattress?

Multiple factors can impact the cost of a mattress. When you’re working with a limited budget, it is important to consider these details to find the best option for your money.

Quality and Type of Materials: Price depends partially on the type of materials used in a mattress’ construction. For instance, memory foam and natural latex often cost more. Coils and polyfoam tend to be much more cost-effective, and high-quality options can be highly durable. However, low-quality polyfoam and coils may prematurely sag or show other signs of wear.

Durability: The less durable your mattress, the more likely it will be to develop issues like sagging that limit its usable lifespan. Durability is usually linked to the quality of the materials, so shoppers who want their mattress to last may prefer to select the highest quality model that accommodates their needs, preferences, and budget.

Mattress Layers: Mattresses with more layers are typically thicker and pricier due to their extra materials and more complicated constructions. While their additional layers may improve the performance of some models, shoppers can often save money by selecting an option with a simpler design.

Density: The density of foam affects its performance and durability. Lower-density polyfoam and memory foam typically cost less, trap less heat, and respond more quickly to changes in pressure. However, they also tend to be less durable and not as exceptional at pressure relief and motion isolation.

Proprietary Technology: Some mattresses use proprietary materials, and this almost always results in a higher price due to costs associated with development. Some special components can improve the performance of a mattress, however, so they may be worth the extra expense for some shoppers.

Shipping Rates, Returns, and Warranties

Shipping, return, and warranty policies can differ quite a bit from one mattress manufacturer to the next. When you add retail stores into the mix, these details could get even more confusing.

Shipping

While there are differences between how each mattress manufacturer or retailer will ship their products, most of them take a very similar approach. With that being said, a few variances can impact when and how you receive your new mattress.

How Long Will It Take to Arrive?

Many companies assemble the mattress upon receiving an order, and this process can take a few days, adding to the shipping time. Once sent, shipments originating from your region may take just a couple of days to arrive, but those coming from across the country can take a week or more.

How Is It Shipped?

Most manufacturers work with a shipping company to send your mattress to your front door. Mattress-in-a-box models are typically compressed, wrapped in plastic, and encased in a box. Some companies also offer White Glove delivery, which means they will send a team to deliver and set up the new mattress. Old mattress removal may also be included. This service usually costs extra, but a few companies include it at no charge.

Is Shipping Free?

Many mattress manufacturers and retail mattress chains offer free shipping. Most of these services include to-the-door-delivery. However, a few companies include White Glove delivery at no additional cost.

Returns

If you’re shopping on a budget, a good return policy may be especially useful to ensure you have recourse if the mattress isn’t ideal for you. Most online mattress sellers include a trial period to give you a chance to adjust to the bed before you make an official decision. These policies typically last between 90 days and a year.

How Are Returns Handled?

Three return methods are most common. Many companies ask you to donate your unwanted mattress to an eligible local charity and send them proof of the donation. Some will also help arrange for the charity to pick up the mattress. Other companies send a team to remove the mattress from your home. A few manufacturers may ask you to send the mattress back to them, though this is not standard due to the difficulty of packing a mattress for shipment.

Are Returns Free?

Although many companies offer free returns, some may require you to pay transportation and/or service fees.

Warranties

Mattress manufacturers usually offer a warranty to protect against eligible defects in manufacturing and materials. The terms of mattress warranties can vary quite a bit, so reading them carefully can give you a clearer idea of the level of coverage.

What Does a Warranty Cover?

Mattress warranties typically cover specific defects in the materials or manufacturing, like splitting foam and indentations greater than a certain depth. Changes in personal preferences and damage from mishandling, abuse, and accidents are not covered.

What Should You Look for in a Warranty?

The main detail to look for is warranty length. While some companies offer a 5- to 10-year warranty, others provide warranties that last 20 to 25 years. The terms can also be important, as they will define how returns work and how they deem a mattress to be defective.

How Much Does a Warranty Cost?

Typically, mattress manufacturers offer warranties at no additional cost. However, the mattress owner may be expected to pay associated transportation and/or handling charges should they make a warranty claim. Some policies also include a prorated fee structure for repairs and replacements based on how long you’ve owned the mattress.

Additional Mattress Costs

When purchasing a new mattress, it may be necessary to consider related costs. These expenses could easily add up and become an issue for shoppers with a limited budget. Whether you choose to limit extra expenses or set aside money for them, you should be aware of additional costs you may incur and how they can impact your experience and budget.

Bed Frames and Bedding: If you purchase a different mattress size than what you previously owned, you’ll likely need a new frame and bedding to accommodate it. Similarly, high-profile mattresses require deep pocket sheets, so you may need a new set if you select a thicker model. High-quality mattress covers, protectors, and sheets can also improve the lifespan of a bed, so they may be worth the expense to protect your investment.

Shoppers should keep in mind that many mattress warranties require that a reliable foundation support the mattress. Before purchasing a new frame or using your existing foundation, read through the terms of the warranty to ensure you don’t inadvertently void the policy.

Mattress Removal: Old mattresses must be disposed of appropriately, which may be an extra expense. These services are sometimes provided by mattress companies and retail stores for an additional fee, though a few include it at no additional cost. If old mattress removal is not available, you’ll need to look into local regulations to ensure you discard it correctly. Recycling is usually the best way to dispose of a mattress that’s no longer usable.

Expert Assembly: Boxed mattresses typically come with unpacking instructions. While most new owners find it relatively simple to set up their new bed, expert help can come in handy if you’re unsure, have physical limitations that make moving large objects difficult, and/or can’t enlist a friend or family member to assist you. White Glove delivery includes unpacking, assembly, and setup. This service often carries an additional fee, though a few companies include it in the purchase price.

How to Get the Best Deal on a Mattress

A new mattress can be expensive, but useful strategies can help you save money. These methods could easily cut your costs by hundreds of dollars, which might allow you to consider a bigger mattress, new bedding, or other related accessories to complete your bedroom setup.

Shop During Mattress Sales

Both retailers and mattress manufacturers often have sales during holidays or special sale events, such as Black Friday. These sales are typically offered at least once every few months, so you might want to check prices around the next holiday to see what deals are available.

Buy Online

Customers can often save money by buying a mattress directly from the manufacturer’s website. This can eliminate some of the usual overhead costs that get passed on to consumers, like the operating expenses associated with brick-and-mortar retail locations. Additionally, while some mattress and furniture stores charge for delivery, most direct-to-consumer mattress companies ship for free.

As an added bonus, buying online allows you to comparison shop and carefully weigh your options without pressure from salespeople, which may make it easier to find the best value for your money.

Coupon Codes, Referrals, and Discounts

Mattress companies frequently offer savings through coupon codes, referrals, and other discounts. While these deals are often displayed on the product page, you might also receive offers if you sign up for emails from the company.

Comparison Shop

Comparing prices between different mattress types, brands, and models can give you a better idea of what is available within your budget. Once you think you’ve found the right bed for you, you might continue comparison shopping to determine whether you can get a better price through the company’s website or a third-party vendor. Note that shipping and delivery policies may vary between sellers, so it’s important to pay attention to the fine print.