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What Is The Best Budget Mattress To Buy In 2020?

Posted on the 31 March 2020 by Ryan

If you’re looking for the best budget mattress then look no more. 

Nothing frustrates like a long night with unending back aches because you slept on the wrong mattress, or simply because it’s worn out. 

So, when is it right to replace your mattress?

A mattress that’s stood 8 to 9 years of regular use or 12 years of irregular use (as is the case of guest mattresses), needs replacement. Sagging mattresses and chronic pain and stiffness when sleeping also indicate that your mattress needs replacement.

Mattresses with tears, lumps, dust mite and mold, persistent stains and bed bugs also need prompt replacement. If you’re older than 40, replace your mattress pad every 5 or 6 years due to increased sensitivity to pressure points.

Various factors such as stress level, comfort and room temperature determine whether you’ll get a good night’s sleep. However, the best mattress for your unique needs is key to a restful night of sound sleep.

You spend a third of your lifetime in the bedroom, explaining why a mattress is an important investment. However, a good mattress isn’t cheap with even the most basic ones costing hundreds of dollars.

But, if you want to get good sleep each night, you can’t just opt for the cheapest mattress you can find on the market. But, how do you know which mattress is perfect for you?

According to an associate professor at Santa Monica UCLA Medical Center, in orthopedic surgery and neurosurgery, Arya Nick Shamie, MD, the best mattress supports your body in a neutral sleeping position. This is when your spine is proper alignment with your heels, buttocks, head and shoulders, creating a nice curvature. 

If the mattress is too soft, it won’t give your pressure points enough support, causing your entire body to flop back. On the converse, one that’s too firm exerts more pressure on your pressure points, taking you out of alignment. Either scenario leads to aches when you wake up in the morning. 

Although it’s good to buy form a good brand, a firmer mattress is best for lower back pain. Studies have found that sleeping on a bed with medium to firm mattress results in less back pain than using one with softer firmness.

A good mattress leads to a peaceful night’s sleep, which in turn, promotes weight loss, and leaves you looking younger and feeling greater. Other benefits of sleep include reduced stress levels and blood pressure, better memory and mood, and a healthy heart, among others.

With the myriad physical and emotional health benefits of getting a good night’s sleep, the need to get yourself a good mattress goes without saying. The best budget mattress is durable, comfortable and supports your sleeping position. It also comes with the best mattress cover for protection. 

With thousands of mattresses varied in type, materials, sizes, firmness, etc., there’s need to choose one that’s bound to give you high quality sleep. Read on to find out what counts when it comes to choosing the best mattress for kids or yourself. 

Top 5 Best Budget Mattress On The Market

Preview Product Rating Price

Purple Queen Mattress | Hyper-Elastic Polymer Bed Supports Your Back Like A Firm Mattress and Cradles Your Hips and Shoulders Like A Soft Mattress - Cooler and More Supportive Than Memory Foam
Purple Queen Mattress | Hyper-Elastic Polymer Bed Supports Your Back Like A Firm Mattress and... No ratings yet $1,099.00 Buy on Amazon

SERTA iCOMFORT BLUE 500 QUEEN MATTRESS
SERTA iCOMFORT BLUE 500 QUEEN MATTRESS No ratings yet $1,599.00 Buy on Amazon

Sleep Innovations Shiloh 14-inch Memory Foam Mattress Bed in a Box, Made in The USA, 10-Year Warranty, King, White
Sleep Innovations Shiloh 14-inch Memory Foam Mattress Bed in a Box, Made in The USA, 10-Year... No ratings yet $548.90 Buy on Amazon

Eco Terra 11 Inch Cal King Natural Latex Hybrid Mattress | Medium Mattress w/Encased Coil Springs
Eco Terra 11 Inch Cal King Natural Latex Hybrid Mattress | Medium Mattress w/Encased Coil Springs $1,099.00 Buy on Amazon

Eco Terra 11 Inch King Natural Latex Hybrid Mattress | Medium Mattress w/Encased Coil Springs
Eco Terra 11 Inch King Natural Latex Hybrid Mattress | Medium Mattress w/Encased Coil Springs No ratings yet $1,099.00 Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2020-04-01 PST - Details

1. Purple Mattress

Purple Queen Mattress | Hyper-Elastic Polymer Bed Supports Your Back Like A Firm Mattress and Cradles Your Hips and Shoulders Like A Soft Mattress - Cooler and More Supportive Than Memory Foam
Purple Queen Mattress | Hyper-Elastic Polymer Bed... $1,099.00 Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2020-04-01 PST - Details

Purple is a brand with a focus on making people feel better. It manufactures mattresses, pillows, sheets, seat cushions, powerbases, pet beds and the best mattress protectors. The company engineers its products to isolate motion, cradle pressure points and keep you cool all night long.

The Purple Mattress equally distributes pressure and supports correct alignment of the spine. The two work together to ensure you get total relaxation and recovery each night. Based on a leading sleep science technology, the mattress creates motion transfer on isolated areas to prevent disturbances to other sleepers.

The best mattress for side and back sleepers is constructed to support free airflow. The technology used to make the bed breathable improves air circulation. This helps with temperature control for cool nights. Its breathability makes it the best mattress for hot sleepers.

The mattress also has antimicrobial properties, making it free from dust mites and allergens. Its CertiPUR-US certified as a safe product made from materials that aren’t harmful. It’s also safe for people sensitive to dust and other allergens.

Pros
  • Large size mattress for spine alignment and pain relief 
  • Prevents disturbances when sharing a bed
  • High breathability for improved air circulation
  • Anti-microbial properties and allergen-free use
  • Safe for human use and available in a range of size options 
  • Comfortable, durable and available in 5 size options
  • 100 night trial
Cons
  • The 10-year warranty becomes void if used by a medical patient
  • Expensive, but worth the $$$$

Buy on Amazon

2. Serta iComfort Mattress

SERTA iCOMFORT BLUE 500 QUEEN MATTRESS
SERTA iCOMFORT BLUE 500 QUEEN MATTRESS $1,599.00 Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2020-04-01 PST - Details

Serta is a leading American manufacturer of different types of mattresses, adjustable bases and related accessories. It has been in the industry long enough to know what different kinds of sleepers want in their mattresses. It ensures every product is comfortable enough for all types of sleepers with varied needs.
The Serta iComfort Mattress is available in various standard sizes and styles. The 9.75” thickness makes it the best mattress for heavy people. It’s made from high quality memory foam constructed with four layers for extra support and cushioning of your whole body.
Infused with active beads in millions, the gel memory foam controls temperature for cool nights of sleep. The mattress has been made to work with any kind of bed frame, making it versatile. Whether you own slatted frames, box springs or adjustable platforms, you’ll be able to use it with the iComfort mattress.
It also distributes body weight and controls motion to offer enough support and less disturbance.

Pros
  • Built for durable use and relieves pressure points 
  • Comes in a sleek design of top quality 
  • Comfortable enough to support all body curves
  • Cool to touch for better temperature control 
  • Versatile to allow for use with all types of bed frames
  • USA-made and recommended by most existing users
Cons
  • The mattress may be too thick for people with low body weights

Buy on Amazon

3. Sleep Innovations Alden Memory Foam Mattress

Sleep Innovations Shiloh 14-inch Memory Foam Mattress Bed in a Box, Made in The USA, 10-Year Warranty, King, White
Sleep Innovations Shiloh 14-inch Memory Foam... $548.90 Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2020-04-01 PST - Details

Sleep Innovations is a leading manufacturer of mattresses, pillows and the best mattress topper for back pain, among other toppers. The company’s mattresses have been proven to provide longer and deeper sleep for total relaxation after a long day. They instantly transform beds into sleep oasis without breaking banks.
With over two decades worth of expertise in the mattress manufacturing industry, the company produces high quality products that fit every need at a budget. The Sleep Innovation Alden Memory Foam Mattress is available in twin, full, queen, king and California king sizes for the different bed sizes out there.
The memory foam mattress lets you drift into deeper, sounder slumber each night. It’s ideal for side sleeping and people with average bodies. It’s constructed to offer comfort and enough support for pain and pressure point relief. It keeps the spine in alignment with the hips and shoulders for painless sleep.
The TriComfort design and the top, middle and bottom layers cradle the body to offer personalized sleep comfort. With comfort guaranteed for your head down to the toes, you’ll wake up recharged, refreshed, and ready for the day ahead.

Pros
  • Available in 5 size options
  • Comfortable and supportive enough to align the spine correctly
  • Relieves pressure points and pain
  • USA-made and comes with a 10-year warranty
  • The handcrafted tufted cover has a soft, pillowy feel
  • Durable for long-term use
Cons
  • The mattress thickness isn’t ideal for people with low or heavy weights
  • Priced on the higher side, but worth the amount 

Buy on Amazon

4. Eco Terra Latex Spring Hybrid Mattress

Eco Terra 11 Inch Cal King Natural Latex Hybrid Mattress | Medium Mattress w/Encased Coil Springs
Eco Terra 11 Inch Cal King Natural Latex Hybrid... $1,099.00 Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2020-04-01 PST - Details

Eco Terra is a leading manufacturer of latex mattresses. The eco-friendly company was ranked in the list of “America’s Best Natural Mattress in 2018.” It uses natural non-toxic materials to manufacture organic mattresses. It also uses 100% organic wool and cotton to manufacture comfortable eco-friendly mattresses.
The company is based in California and is committed to producing high quality, synthetic-free mattresses. All the mattresses come with free 90-night trials to help consumers make an informed choice. The Eco Terra Latex Spring Hybrid Mattress is 11 inches thick and has an extra plush layer of natural latex for increased comfort.
The pocketed coils are encased in fabric, and sandwiched between a 100% organic cotton cover and a wool fire layer. The organic latex used on the mattress contours to your body shape to provide the support and body needs for sound night’s sleep.
Latex is sourced from a single point to ensure consistent quality and buoyancy. Opt for this product if you’re looking for the best mattress under 500 or thereabouts.

Pros
  • Constructed with an extra latex layer for added comfort
  • Made from 100% natural latex for eco-friendly use
  • Luxurious with firmness of 5.5 rating on the scale
  • Motion transfer minimizes sleep disturbance from your partner
Cons
  • Warranty information isn’t available
  • The organic materials mean the mattress isn’t fully allergens-proof 

Buy on Amazon

Why You Should Choose Your Mattress Carefully

As mentioned earlier, it takes the right mattress to get a good night’s sleep. Choosing your mattress carefully ensures that you don’t just buy one that’s within your budget, but meets your unique needs to get a restful night’s sleep.

Careful choice also ensures that you buy a mattress that’ll last years of use without causing you sleepless nights. Most importantly, it’ll ensure that you get value for your money in terms of restful night’s sleep and long-term use.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Budget Mattress 

Whether you’re shopping online or in a physical store, it helps to know what makes up a good mattress that meets your needs for good sleep. With a large mattress market and an overwhelming amount of choice to consider, picking the best mattress may seem like a chore. But, it can be one that’s worthy and pays for years.

So, what do you look for when buying a new mattress? Here’s what’s important:

Type of Mattress

Choose the right type of mattress based on the factors below. Consider innerspring mattresses, memory foam mattresses, gel foam mattresses, futon mattresses, air mattresses, pillow top mattresses, waterbed mattresses, hybrid mattresses, etc.

Innerspring mattresses are affordable with good bounciness, great breathability and available in various models. Bonnell coils are cheap, durable and made in hourglass shapes. Offset coils are more durable, have a hinging effect and more costly.

Just like offset coils, the S-shaped continuous coils have a hinging effect. However, they’re resilient to damage and thus more durable. Their poor contouring ability makes them ideal for stomach sleepers.

Also known as encased coils or Marshall Coils, pocketed coils are wrapped individually in cloth pockets. They have better contour ability close that of foam, and supports motion transfer, making them ideal for couples or people sharing beds. However, their lifespan is short.

Foam mattresses are more effective and efficient at providing comfort and pain relief, atop being more durable than innersprings. They conform to body shapes and increase air circulation for body heat control. They’re ideal for people with back problems. 

Foam mattresses can be made from open cell memory foam, memory foam, gel foam, latex foam (Dunlop and Talalay latex foam), convoluted foam and polyurethane foam. Although foam mattresses were initially very expensive, their prices have dropped due to technological advancements. 

Hybrid mattresses are made from a combination of any two different materials for a benefit of the two worlds. However, they have shorter lifespans. A good example is the foam-spring hybrid mattresses.

Futon mattresses are folding mattresses popular in Japan. They’re small, portable, and double as sofas. They’re made from different materials such as foam, cotton, springs and polyester. The folding mattresses are also versatile in application. 

Pillow top mattresses are comfortable and feature an extra layer on top, making them costly. Made from latex, foam, cotton or wool, the mattresses provide better temperature control, support and extra bounce. Opt for this type of mattress if you’re a side sleeper or experience chronic pain.

Air mattresses are comfortable, portable, disposable and cheap. They offer adjustable firmness and may feature multiple layers for added comfort. The mattresses use smart pumps for inflation and can look and feel luxurious. But, they can be noisy and come with shorter warranties.

On the other hand, waterbeds offer greater comfort, easy cleaning and allergen-free use, pain relief and water heating for temperature control. However, they’re prone to leakage, offer no support, difficult to move and costly in terms of heating.

Smart mattresses are also known as automatic beds, adjustable beds, electronic beds, smart beds, high-tech beds, etc. They remote controlled, adjust in shape, including footrest and headrest. They’re made with various smart features such as massage programs, USB ports, clocks, night lights, etc. They’re expensive and ideal for persons with special needs.

Support

A supportive mattress fits you well in terms of comfort and getting pain-free sleep. It neither sags sooner nor cause hip and back pains. A mattress designed with comfort layers to support the entire body and align the spine properly is perfect for chronic back pain.

The best budget mattress for hip pain focuses on supporting the center or core of your body. Such a mattress may not feel comfortable because comfort and support aren’t the same.

After sleeping on a mattress that offers poor support for years, the right one may cause more pain at first. But, once your bones and spine realign to the correct natural position, the pain goes away and you can begin to enjoy long-term pain relief.

The type of mattress and firmness are good indicators of the type of support you can get from your purchase. For instance, firmer or encased coil mattresses are more supportive than their counterparts.

The experience of other users who’ve left reviews can also help you determine if the mattress you want to buy offers support for your pain points such as back pain.

Durability

High quality mattresses are bound to offer you good sleep for many years. However, poor quality options degrade fast.

The type of mattress is a key factor in determining durability. For instance, latex mattresses are more durable than foam mattresses while hybrid mattresses have lower durability. 

Check out the stitching or quilting for durability. Loose seams could indicate poor construction, meaning the mattress may not last before the threading comes off. 

Durable mattresses also don’t come cheap. Expect durable mattresses to cost several hundreds of dollars. However, make sure what you opt for gives value for money.

Thickness

Although mattresses commonly range in thickness from 8 to 12 inches, they typically come in 5 to 15 inches or more. The thickness of a mattress helps support varying body weights.

Thicker mattresses are ideal for persons with heavy body weights for comfort and pain relief. On the other hand, thicker mattresses aren’t ideal for people with low weight and may feel uncomfortable. 

You can’t sink into thicker mattresses if your weight is low, meaning its ability to comfort to your body is hampered. As a result, such a mattress wouldn’t help you with pain relief.

What’s more, two mattresses of the same thickness, but made from different materials don’t feel the same. For instance, a foam mattress would feel less firm than a coil mattress. However, thickness isn’t a factor when shopping for waterbeds.

Firmness or Softness

This factor can determine the level of pain relief your mattress offers. Too much softness can cause your body to sink deeper into the mattress, causing back pain due to spine misalignment. 

On the other hand, a mattress with too much firmness would feel like sleeping on a hard surface. The key is finding a mattress that keeps your spine in proper alignment. 

The firmness or softness of a mattress is rated on a scale of 1 to 10. Medium firmness is rate 5 to 7 on the scale while a rating of 3 to 5 would feel softer. You may sink up to 3 inches on the softer mattresses. However, a scale of 7 to 9 feels hard and may only sink an inch inside the mattress.

The correct firmness rating depends on your sleeping position and specific problems. For instance, back sleepers need firmer mattresses while side sleepers should opt for softer mattresses. If you’re heavy, you need a firmer mattress to support your weight.

Find a mattress with product trial to help you test and determine if it’s of the right firmness or softness level.

Comfort Level

Although a comfortable mattress doesn’t translate to pain relief, it’s certainly critical to getting good sleep. What’s more, a firm mattress can still feel comfortable. 

Apart from easing pain, sleeping on a comfortable mattress feels great. Breathability, edge support, contouring and motion isolation work together to make a mattress comfortable.

Contouring is how a mattress conforms to your body. A snugly conforming hug is key for spine alignment. The mattress contours to your body shape to ease back pain. However, there’s need for space between your body and the mattress if you sleep hot.

Motion isolation is important when sharing a bed. It ensures your movements don’t affect your spouse’s sleep and wake them up. Look out for motion transfer in a mattress that won’t wake up your partner when you get out of bed.

You need edge support either if you share your bed or keep tossing and turning while sleeping to prevent you from falling off. If you sit on the edge of a mattress with poor support, you’ll slip off it.

A breathable mattress is made from materials and technologies that promote air circulation. It’s ideal for people who sweat while sleeping for cool nights.

The feel, odor and noise level of a mattress can also affect its comfort. These factors are important because people are different and so are the things they consider comfortable. 

Pain Relief 

The wrong mattress can worsen back pain or joint pain. Mattresses are also made to relieve particular types of pain.

Mattresses for Pain Relief

The best mattress for back pain contours to your body, and is firm and soft with a rating of 5 to 7. They’re designed to keep your spine in alignment with your shoulders, hips, etc.

Memory foam is often used in such type of mattresses for back pain relief. Make sure that the mattress is also ideal for your weight and sleeping position. 

The Best Mattresses for Hip Pain

A bad mattress and poor sleeping position can also cause hip pain or worsen your condition. The best mattress for hip pain is firm and more supportive in the middle, made from latex or memory foam, and soft enough to conform to your body for proper spine alignment. 

Mattresses for Neck and Shoulder Pain

Living a sedentary lifestyle exerts pressure on your neck and pain. And, a bad mattress only makes things worse. Sleeping on the stomach and poor support during sleep cause shoulder and neck pain.

Although working on your posture while walking or sitting can ease the pain on your neck or shoulder, a good mattress can also help with pain relief.

The best mattress for neck and shoulder pain is made from latex, memory foam or a hybrid of materials. A firm mattress designed to offer back support is ideal for easing neck and shoulder pain. 

Pillow top mattresses also helpful. If you’re a side sleeper, opt for a softer mattress with firmness of about 5 to 7 on the scale.

Mattresses for Leg Pain

Your sleeping position and mattress can worsen the pain on your ankles, feet, knees and calves. The best mattress for leg pain are large and soft hybrid mattresses with a firmness rating of 4 to 5 on the scale. They offer enough cushioning and support for your legs.

Mattresses for Joint Pain

Joint pains such as arthritis and inflammation affect both the young and alike. The best mattress for joint pain are large and made with a thinner comfort layer. They range in firmness from 6 to 8 on the scale and the most support comes from hybrid mattresses. However, they aren’t as durable as other types of mattresses.

Sleeping Position

Whether you’re a side sleeper or back sleeper, there’s a mattress to support your unique needs. 

Mattresses for Side Sleepers 

Side sleeping promotes blood circulation, helps with sleep apnea and prevents snoring, making it the best sleeping position. It’s also ideal for pregnant women.

Whether you find comfort in the fetal position, the log or the yearner, find the right mattress for you. The best mattress for side sleepers range in firmness from 4 to 6 on the scale.

However, if you weigh at least 200 pounds, go for a firmness rating of 7 to 8, or 4 to 3 for anything less than 130 pounds. Make sure it contours to your body for proper spine alignment, and have a thin comfort layer.

Look out for latex, memory foam or hybrid mattresses for the right support. If working on a tight budget, a small mattress will save you some money. Find the best mattress topper for side sleepers to protect the mattress. 

Mattresses for Back Sleepers

A good mattress for back sleeping provides support for your back, spine, shoulders and neck. Back sleeping relieves joint pains, but may worsen issues such as snoring, sleep apnea and gastrointestinal problems. 

Sleeping without a pillow in this position eases pressure on the shoulders and neck. The best mattresses for back sleepers have flat surfaces for better conforming to your body, midsection support and proper spine alignment. 

The firmness should range from 7 to 8 for over 200 pounds of body weight, and a 5 to 6 rating for less than 200pounds. Anything less than 130 pounds calls for a rating of 3 to 5. The comfort layer can range from 2 to 3 inches. Make sure it’s also spacious.

Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleeping helps with sleep apnea and snoring, but is the worst. It’s bad for your face, spine, nerves and muscles. It strains the hips, back, stomach and impairs breathing. It also causes wrinkles.

If you can’t change your sleeping position, find the best mattress for stomach sleepers to minimize the downside of the sleeping position.

The best mattress for stomach sleepers has a thin comfort layer of up to 2 inches only, and doesn’t conform to your body to ensures that your stomach doesn’t sink, resulting in poor spine alignment. 

A firmness rating of 7 to 8 prevents the lumbar area from hyperextending. The firmest mattresses that can easily confirm to your body are innerspring mattresses.

Mattresses for Combination Sleepers

Some don’t have a specific sleeping position, but keep changing from one to another. It’s difficult to find the right mattress for someone who keeps turning and tossing throughout the night.

The best mattress for combination sleepers provides enough support for all sleeping positions. However, consider your preferred sleeping position when choosing a mattress to buy. A large mattress will provide enough space to keep moving around. 

Look out for good motion transfer and edge support. Latex mattresses with medium firmness ranging from 4 to 7 would be a deal for different sleeping positions. Consider mattresses with up to 100 days trial to help you find a good fit.

Mattress Size

Mattresses are made in various sizes with king, full, California king, queen and twin being the most common. Choose a size that would fit on your existing or desired new bed. Other sizes include crib, twin XL, long double, double, small double, short queen, Olympic queen, super king, emperor, large emperor and custom sizes.

Mattress Brands

Buy from a reputable brand with a large variety of mattresses to choose from. Make sure they’ve been in the industry for at least three years, provide warranties and exceptional customer support services.

Other Factors

Determine if you need accessories such as the best mattress protectors to keep your mattress clean and in good condition. Warranty, return policies, weight, material, sleep trials and returns, box springs for innersprings, terms and conditions of delivery (including fees and policies) and your budget, are other factors to consider when shopping for the best mattress under 1000.

Conclusion

Apart from choosing the best budget mattress for you, make sure you learn how to properly maintain and clean it for durable use. Fungus, dust mites and germs can buildup allergies, hampering your sleep quality and patterns. But, with a comfortable mattress that meets your unique needs, expect to get enough rest each night.

Check out our reviews of the best budget mattresses to find one suitable for your sleeping position and body weight.


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