In today’s post, I’ll share 5 of the best queen size mattresses under $500. These are cheap mattresses that are still comfortable and supportive, so you can get a good night’s sleep (without breaking the bank).
Two quick notes:
- This list does not include foundations or mattress accessories. Foundations are bed frames, boxsprings, and adjustable bed frames. Mattress accessories are bed sheets, mattress protectors, bed pillows, and blankets. Foundations and mattress accessories are both really important to complete your bed, and we cover them in other posts (see our guide on foundations here and our guide on pillows, sheets, and blankets).
- In this post, I don’t go into deep detail. These are high quality beds at a low price point. If you want to learn more about what goes into making a budget mattress (technology and specifications), you can skip ahead to the sections at the end of the post on memory foam mattresses, hybrid mattresses, innerspring mattresses, and latex mattresses.
Now, let’s get started on finding you your new bed.
1. Linenspa 8 Inch Hybrid Medium-Firm Queen Mattress
Why we like it: The Linenspa 8 inch hybrid is an affordable firm mattress. This makes it a good choice for back sleepers and stomach sleepers. The top layer is a plush layer of memory foam, but it’s very thin. So it’ll be enough for back sleepers and stomach sleepers but if you’re mainly a side sleeper, we recommend going to the next item on our list.
2. Zinus 12 inch Memory Foam Mattress (CertiPUR-US Certified)
Why we like it: The Zinus 12 inch memory foam mattress is a great deal for its price. It’s 12 inches thick, so it’s going to be more plush or softer than the Linenspa 8 inch. That’s why the Zinus 12 inch mattress is great for side sleepers, but it’s not too soft for back sleepers. (If you’re mainly a stomach sleeper you will probably want a firmer bed).
3. Lucid 10 inch Memory Foam Mattress
Why we like it: The Lucid 10 inch model isn’t as thick as the 12 inch mattresses on our list, so it’s a little firmer. But it isn’t as firm as the 8 inch mattress on our list. Think of this bed as a medium firm and a great mattress for back sleepers. It offers just a little give, which means that your hips won’t sink too deep into the mattress, which is perfect for back sleepers. And because it uses memory foam, you’re going to get a lot of pressure relief from the Lucid 10 inch.
4. JINGXUN Queen Mattress (Firm)
Why we like it:
5. IYEE 12 inch Coil Mattress
Why we like it:
The IYEE 12 inch innerspring mattress gives you that familiar bounce of a coil mattress. It has a 9 inch pocketed ccoil, which gives this bed a lot of durability (it’ll last and is protected by a 10 year mattress warranty), and 3 inches of a comfort layer. Plus, the pocketed coils help cut down on motion transfer, which means you won’t feel them move as much if you’re sharing the bed.
The IYEE 12 inch is a good choice for all types of sleepers, including side, back, and stomach. For $325 (and that includes free delivery for Prime members) it’s well worth it.
Budget Mattress Shopping Guide (Under $500)
When shopping for a mattress under $500, here are some key features to consider:
- Mattress Type: There are different types of mattresses available, such as memory foam, innerspring, hybrid, and latex. Each type has its own unique feel and benefits, so it’s important to choose the type that suits your sleeping preferences.
- Firmness: Mattresses come in various firmness levels, ranging from soft to firm. Your preferred firmness level will depend on your sleeping position and personal preference.
- Thickness: The thickness of the mattress can affect its comfort level and durability. Typically, a thickness of 8-12 inches is recommended for a comfortable sleep.
- Materials: Consider the materials used in the mattress, including the quality of the foam, coils, and cover. Look for mattresses made with high-quality, durable materials to ensure longevity and comfort.
- Support: A good mattress should provide adequate support for your body, especially in the areas of the back, neck, and hips.
- Motion Isolation: If you share your bed with a partner, look for a mattress that offers good motion isolation to prevent disruptions during sleep.
- Warranty: Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer to ensure that you are protected in case of defects or issues with the mattress.
Mattress types
- Memory Foam Mattresses: Memory foam mattresses are made of high-density polyurethane foam that conforms to the shape of your body. They provide excellent pressure relief and support, especially for side sleepers. Memory foam mattresses can have different firmness levels, ranging from soft to firm, and can be a good choice for people with back pain or joint issues.
- Innerspring Mattresses: Innerspring mattresses are the most traditional type of mattress, and they use coils or springs to provide support. They can have different coil systems, including Bonnell, offset, and pocketed coils. Innerspring mattresses tend to be firmer than other types of mattresses and are a good choice for people who prefer a firmer feel or sleep on their stomach.
- Hybrid Mattresses: Hybrid mattresses combine memory foam or latex with innerspring coils to provide the benefits of both mattresses. They can offer good support, pressure relief, and motion isolation. Hybrid mattresses can have different firmness levels and are a good choice for people who want the benefits of memory foam and the bounce of innerspring coils.
- Latex Mattresses: They are made of natural or synthetic latex foam and are known for their durability and support. They can provide good pressure relief and are a good choice for people with allergies or who prefer an eco-friendly mattress. Latex mattresses can have different firmness levels, ranging from soft to firm.
- Air Mattresses: Air mattresses use air chambers to provide support and can be adjusted to different firmness levels using a remote or a smartphone app. They are a good choice for people who want a customizable sleep experience or have specific medical needs.
Firmness levels
Here’s a brief overview of the different firmness levels you may encounter when shopping for a mattress under $500:
- Soft: A soft mattress typically has more give and sink than a firmer mattress. It can be a good choice for side sleepers who need more pressure relief on their hips and shoulders.
- Medium-Soft: A medium-soft mattress will provide more support than a soft mattress but will still have some give. It can be a good choice for combination sleepers who change positions during the night.
- Medium: A medium firmness level is the most common and can be a good choice for many sleepers. It provides a good balance of support and comfort and can help alleviate back pain.
- Medium-Firm: A medium-firm mattress will provide more support than a medium mattress and can be a good choice for back sleepers or people who need more support for their back or neck.
- Firm: A firm mattress will provide the most support and the least amount of give. It can be a good choice for stomach sleepers or people who prefer a very firm sleep surface.
Remember that firmness levels are subjective and what feels comfortable to one person may not feel comfortable to another. Choosing a firmness level that provides adequate support for your body and helps you sleep comfortably throughout the night is important.
Thickness / Height
The thickness of a mattress can vary depending on the type and brand of the mattress and the materials used. However, for a budget mattress priced at around $500, the thickness will typically be between 8 to 12 inches.
It’s worth noting that a thicker mattress doesn’t necessarily mean it’s more comfortable or of higher quality. The comfort and support of a mattress depend on the quality of materials used, the design of the mattress, and the manufacturing process, not just the thickness.
When shopping for a budget mattress, it’s important to focus on the quality of materials and construction, as well as the level of support and comfort it provides, rather than just the thickness of the mattress.
Materials
The materials used in a $500 mattress can vary depending on the brand and type of mattress, but here are some common materials you may find:
- Polyurethane Foam: Polyurethane foam is a synthetic foam material that is commonly used in mattresses. It can be used in different densities and levels of firmness, and can provide good support and pressure relief.
- Memory Foam: Memory foam is a polyurethane foam designed to conform to your body shape and relieve pressure. It can be used in different firmness levels and can be a good choice for people with back or joint pain.
- Innerspring Coils: Innerspring coils are metal coils or springs supporting traditional innerspring mattresses. They can come in different types, including Bonnell, offset, and pocketed coils, and can provide good support and durability.
- Latex Foam: Latex foam is a natural or synthetic foam material that can provide good support and pressure relief. It is known for its durability and can be a good choice for people with allergies or who prefer a more eco-friendly option.
- Gel Foam: Gel foam is a memory foam that contains gel beads or gel-infused foam. It is designed to provide better airflow and cooling than traditional memory foam.
When shopping for a budget mattress, it’s important to pay attention to the quality of the materials used and to choose a mattress that provides the right level of support and comfort for your needs, regardless of the materials used.
Support
Here are some common ways a budget mattress can provide support:
- Spinal Alignment: A good mattress should provide proper spinal alignment, which means that your spine is aligned in a neutral position as you sleep. This can help alleviate back pain and improve overall sleep quality.
- Pressure Relief: A budget mattress should also provide adequate pressure relief, which means that it can support your body weight and relieve pressure on your joints, especially on the hips, shoulders, and other pressure points.
- Motion Isolation: A budget mattress should also be able to isolate motion, which means that it can absorb movement and prevent it from transferring across the surface of the mattress. This can be especially important if you share your bed with a partner and want to minimize disruptions to their sleep.
- Durability: A budget mattress should be durable enough to provide consistent support over time. This means that it should be made with high-quality materials and constructed to withstand daily use.
When shopping for a $500 mattress, choosing a mattress that provides adequate support and comfort for your body type and sleeping style, regardless of the price is important. It’s also important to choose a mattress that has a warranty and a return policy in case it doesn’t meet your expectations.
Motion Isolation
Some budget mattresses are designed with motion isolation in mind and use materials such as memory foam or pocketed coils to help absorb and isolate movement. These mattresses can be a good option if you share your bed with a partner and want to minimize disturbances to their sleep.
However, not all budget mattresses are created equal regarding motion isolation. Some cheaper mattresses may not have as many layers or may be constructed with lower quality materials, making them less effective at isolating motion.
When shopping for a budget mattress that offers good motion isolation, it’s important to look for mattresses with a layer of memory foam or other materials that can absorb motion. Additionally, mattresses with pocketed coils or other types of individually wrapped coils can help isolate motion by limiting the transfer of movement from one area of the mattress to another.
Ultimately, the key is choosing a mattress designed to provide good motion isolation while also providing the level of support and comfort you need for a good night’s sleep.
Return Policy/ Warranty
Most budget mattresses have a return policy and a warranty, but the specifics may vary depending on the brand and retailer.
Many online mattress retailers offer a sleep trial period, allowing you to try out the mattress for a set amount of time (usually around 30-120 nights) and return it for a full refund if you are unsatisfied. This is often a key selling point for online mattress companies, and it allows you to try out the mattress in the comfort of your own home before committing to it.
In terms of warranties, most budget mattresses will come with a manufacturer’s warranty that covers defects in materials or workmanship. The length and specifics of the warranty can vary depending on the brand and model of the mattress, but most warranties will cover the mattress for at least several years.
It’s essential to read the return policy and warranty details carefully before purchasing to ensure that you understand the terms and conditions. Some return policies may have certain restrictions or requirements, such as requiring the mattress to be in like-new condition. Some warranties may only cover specific types of defects or issues.
Overall, it’s a good idea to choose a budget mattress with a solid return policy and warranty to ensure that you are protected in case the mattress doesn’t meet your expectations or has any issues.
Remember that everyone’s sleep preferences and needs are different, so choosing a mattress that suits your specific needs and provides optimal comfort and support is important.
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