How Much Is A Mattress: The Ultimate Guide to Mattress Pricing and Purchasing

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Last Updated: August 20, 2023

Foundations of Mattress Pricing

While a mattress may seem like a straightforward product at the surface, the intricacies that determine its price are numerous. Delving deeper into these will provide a clearer understanding of what exactly you're investing in.

Importance of Mattress Selection

The significance of a mattress transcends beyond just a sleeping surface. It's a determinant of quality of life.

Impact on Sleep Quality

A mattress can either enhance or impede your sleep. A high-quality mattress molds to your body, relieving pressure points such as the hips and shoulders, especially for side sleepers. It also provides adequate lumbar support, essential for back sleepers. For stomach sleepers, a balanced surface is crucial to prevent back strain.



Sleep is the body's recovery phase. Deep REM sleep, vital for cognitive functions, emotional balance, and metabolic health, can only be achieved if the body is entirely at ease, and the mattress plays a pivotal role in this. Conversely, a subpar mattress leads to fragmented sleep, impacting energy levels, cognitive abilities, and mood.

Long-term Health Implications

Beyond immediate comfort, the mattress's long-term effects on health are profound. Continuous sleep on an unsupportive surface can result in misalignment of the spine, leading to chronic back and neck pain. Mattresses retaining heat can disrupt the sleep cycle, leading to insomnia. Some materials also attract dust mites or contain allergens, leading to respiratory issues or skin irritations. Investing wisely means preventing a myriad of health problems.

Primary Factors Influencing Cost

The price tag on a mattress doesn't just account for the material inside; it encompasses a wide range of factors:

Material Quality and Source: Whether it's memory foam, innerspring, latex, or hybrid, materials' source and refinement level play a big part. Organic, ethically sourced materials or specialized fabrics like bamboo or cooling gel-infused foams cost more due to their premium quality and sustainable sourcing.

Construction and Craftsmanship: Hand-tufted mattresses or those with intricate layering and zoning for targeted support are labor-intensive, justifying a higher price. The number of coils in innerspring mattresses or the density of foams also alters the cost.

Brand Reputation and Warranty: Established brands with a history of customer satisfaction might be pricier. Additionally, warranties, often reflecting the company's trust in its product's durability, can affect the price. A longer, comprehensive warranty typically indicates a quality product but adds to the cost.

Marketing and Distribution: How a mattress brand promotes itself – through celebrity endorsements, extensive advertising campaigns, or exclusive partnerships – can add overhead costs, reflected in the product's final price. Moreover, mattresses available exclusively in showrooms or those that provide at-home trial periods might be priced differently than those available online or in multi-brand outlets.

Size and Dimensions: The size of a mattress plays a direct role in its pricing. From the compact twin size to the expansive California king, each increment corresponds with a jump in the amount of material used, the manufacturing time, and the shipping and handling logistics.



• Twin and Twin XL: These are ideal for single sleepers, children, and teenagers. They are the most affordable due to their smaller size, use less material, and are easier to ship.

• Full: A bit more spacious than the twin sizes, it's suitable for single adults wanting more sleeping space. The price climbs a bit due to the added width and length.

• Queen: This is the most popular size for couples or individuals who enjoy ample space. The price is mid-range, given its universal appeal and moderate dimensions.

• King and California King: The epitome of luxury, these sizes provide abundant space, especially for couples. They are typically the most expensive due to the vast amount of material and the complexity of shipping.

Categorizing Mattresses by Price Ranges

While size plays its part, the categorization of mattresses by their price bracket further demystifies their value proposition. Let's delve into what each range offers:

Budget Mattresses (Below $600)

Mattresses in this category aim to provide basic comfort and functionality without breaking the bank.

Common Materials and Lifespan

Budget mattresses primarily use polyurethane foam, basic innerspring coils, and sometimes a combination of both (known as hybrid). While these materials are cost-effective, they might offer different durability or specialized benefits than pricier alternatives. On average, a budget mattress lasts 5-7 years, depending on usage and maintenance.

Suitable Uses and Considerations

Like college students, budget mattresses are excellent for temporary setups, guest rooms, or transitional life phases. However, they might not be ideal for those with specific health concerns or sleep preferences. Before settling for a budget mattress, consider factors like firmness, potential for sagging, and heat retention. It's crucial to ensure it aligns with your comfort requirements, even if it's budget-friendly.

Mid-Range Mattresses ($600 - $1500)

This category bridges the gap between budget and luxury, providing enhanced features at a reasonable price point.

Characteristics and Durability

Mid-range mattresses often integrate superior materials such as higher-density memory foams, pocketed coil systems, and natural latex. Many also feature cooling technologies, edge support, and zoned support for pressure relief. With proper care, these mattresses can last between 7 to 10 years, offering excellent value for their cost.

Who It's Best For

These mattresses cater to a broad audience. Whether you're a side sleeper requiring pressure relief, a back sleeper needing lumbar support, or someone who sleeps hot and needs cooling technologies, mid-range mattresses offer solutions without demanding a premium price. They're particularly suitable for those seeking a long-term investment that ensures quality sleep, whether couples, growing families, or individuals.



In conclusion, while the price is a determinant, understanding what lies beneath that price tag ensures you make an informed choice, aligning your budget with your sleep needs.

Luxury Mattresses ($1500 and Above)

When you venture into luxury mattresses, you're not just paying for a sleep surface but investing in a sleep experience. These mattresses are for those who don't want to compromise their resting hours.

Premium Features and Materials

Luxury mattresses often incorporate cutting-edge sleep technologies and the highest grade of materials. Expect layers of organic, hand-tufted wool or cotton, genuine horsehair, or even cashmere. Memory foam, if used, is typically of the highest density, offering optimal support and longevity. Many luxury mattresses also feature advanced cooling systems, hypoallergenic properties, and tailored zoned support. These materials enhance comfort and significantly increase the mattress's lifespan, often exceeding a decade of robust use.

Brands that Dominate this Segment

Brands like Tempur-Pedic, Hästens, Saatva's premium range, and Simmons Beautyrest Black are some of the prominent names in the luxury mattress segment. These brands have garnered reputations for delivering unparalleled sleep experiences, often tailoring each mattress model to specific sleep needs and preferences. It's common to find custom-built options or limited edition ranges within this bracket, further accentuating the exclusivity.

Diving Deep into Mattress Types and Their Cost Dynamics

Each mattress type has its unique construction, benefits, and pricing considerations. Let's explore.

All-Foam Mattresses

Though relatively new to the bedding industry, foam mattresses have rapidly become favorites due to their pressure-relieving qualities.

Cost Influencers and Range: All-foam mattresses primarily use memory foam, polyfoam, or both. The price is largely determined by foam density, quality, and any additional technologies incorporated, like cooling gel infusions. A basic all-foam mattress might start at a few hundred dollars, but premium versions, especially those using high-density memory foam with cooling properties, can easily breach the $2000 mark.

Top Brands and Their Offerings: Tempur-Pedic is arguably the most recognized name in the all-foam sector, known for its proprietary pressure-relieving foam. Nectar, Casper, and Leesa also offer competitive all-foam options, with each brand highlighting specific features, whether optimal spine alignment, advanced cooling, or eco-friendliness.

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses offer support and bounce, making them a choice for those who desire foam comfort without the sink-in feeling.

Organic vs. Synthetic Cost Implications: Latex can be either natural (derived from rubber trees) or synthetic. Organic or natural latex mattresses are eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, and durable, but they come with a heftier price tag, often starting at $2000. Synthetic latex, while more affordable, doesn't offer the same longevity or eco-friendly credentials. Combining both types, blended versions provide a middle-ground regarding cost and benefits.

Popular Choices in the Market: Brands like Avocado Green, PlushBeds, and Zenhaven lead in the latex segment. While Avocado emphasizes its organic and eco-friendly approach, Zenhaven boasts a flippable design offering two firmness options in one. Each brand in this space often has a unique proposition: sustainability, innovation, or sheer comfort.

Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring mattresses have been the traditional choice for many sleepers over the decades. Their bouncy, responsive feel, combined with the familiar comfort, has kept them in demand despite newer entrants in the mattress market.

How Coil Count and Type Impact Price: The cost of innerspring mattresses can vary significantly based on coil count and type. Generally, a higher coil count indicates better support and mattress quality. However, it's crucial to consider coil type as well -

• Bonnell Coils: The oldest and most common type. They're hourglass-shaped and linked, providing a durable but more generalized support. Mattresses with these coils are typically more affordable.

• Pocketed Coils: Each coil is wrapped individually, allowing them to move independently. This design offers superior motion isolation and contouring support. Mattresses with pocketed coils are often priced higher due to their intricate construction.

• Continuous Coils: Made from a single piece of wire, these coils provide a consistent support level but may lack motion isolation. They fall in the mid-range price category.

• Offset Coils: These are similar to Bonnell coils but have squared heads, which can hang together, offering better contouring. They're typically found in mid to high-range mattresses.

Leading Innerspring Brands: Sealy Posturepedic, Serta Perfect Sleeper, and Beautyrest are stalwarts in the innerspring category. Each offers a range of models catering to various firmness preferences, with features like edge support, cooling technology, and specialized coil systems.

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses are a fusion of innerspring coils and layers of foam or latex. They aim to provide the best of both worlds: the bounce of innerspring and the contouring comfort of foam or latex.

Components that Determine Price: Hybrids can be among the pricier mattresses due to their complex construction. Factors that influence their cost include -

• Coil System Used: As with inner springs, the coil type (pocketed, Bonnell, etc.) plays a role in pricing.

• Quality and Type of Foam: Memory foam, polyfoam, and latex can be used in hybrid mattresses. Premium materials, like high-density memory foam or organic latex, can drive up costs.

• Additional Features: Cooling technologies, reinforced edges, organic cover materials, and zoned support systems can add to the mattress's cost.

Best-rated Hybrid Brands: Brands like Purple, DreamCloud, and Helix Sleep have significantly influenced the hybrid market. Purple, with its unique hyper-elastic polymer grid system, offers a distinct feel, while DreamCloud and Helix provide a range of firmness and customization options.

Smart Buyer Tips: Navigating the Mattress Market

The mattress industry has evolved dramatically, especially with the digital revolution paving the way for a new purchasing paradigm.

The Digital Disruption: Online Purchasing

The way people buy mattresses has changed, thanks to the digital boom. While traditional retail stores still exist, many consumers are turning online for convenience and variety.

Bed-in-a-Box Model and Pricing

The bed-in-a-box model has become immensely popular, where mattresses are compressed, rolled, and shipped in a box. Brands like Casper, Tuft & Needle, and Nectar popularized this model. Not only is delivery and setup often more straightforward, but the costs can also be lower due to reduced overheads and direct-to-consumer sales.

Traditional Retail vs. Online Direct-to-Consumer

While traditional retail offers the advantage of trying a mattress before purchasing, they often come with higher markups and limited brand variety. Online direct-to-consumer models offer competitive pricing, extended trial periods, and a broader selection. However, the challenge is purchasing sight unseen, though generous return policies by most online brands mitigate this risk.

In the ever-evolving world of mattresses, understanding the landscape can lead to better choices and more restful nights. The key is to balance cost, personal comfort preferences, and long-term value.

Securing the Best Deal

With the myriad of mattress options and sales pitches, consumers often wonder if they're genuinely getting the best deal. Cutting through the marketing noise and understanding the retail landscape can significantly impact your wallet and sleep satisfaction.

The Reality of Mattress Sales and Discounts

It's not uncommon to see mattresses perpetually on sale. But are these deals genuine?

• Permanent Discounts: Some brands maintain a year-round "discounted" price, making it challenging to discern actual savings. While this can still provide good value, the savings might not be as significant as they appear.

• Comparing Across Retailers: A mattress model at one store might be renamed at another, making price comparisons challenging. However, the specifications remain largely similar. By understanding the mattress's core components, shoppers can compare more effectively.
  

Timing Your Purchase: Seasons and Sales Events

Just as with many other retail items, there are optimal times to buy a mattress:

• Holiday Weekends: Think Labor Day, Memorial Day, and Presidents' Day. Retailers often offer significant discounts during these periods.

• Black Friday & Cyber Monday: These post-Thanksgiving sales can yield considerable savings, especially with online brands.



• New Model Releases: As with tech gadgets, older versions might see price reductions when new mattress models are released.
  

Additional Considerations Before Checkout

While the mattress's price and quality are paramount, several other factors can impact the buying experience and satisfaction.

Payment and Financing Options:

• Credit Card Payments: Most retailers will accept all major credit cards. Some might even offer promotional interest rates if the card is from their store or affiliated bank.

• Financing: Many mattress companies partner with financing institutions to provide monthly payment plans. This can be advantageous for those who want to avoid paying the full amount upfront. However, it's essential to be aware of interest rates and ensure timely payments to avoid extra charges.

• Layaway: Some traditional retailers still offer layaway options, where customers can reserve a mattress and pay in installments before receiving the product.

Delivery, Setup, and Old Mattress Removal:

• Delivery Options: Some brands offer free delivery, while others might charge a fee. It's crucial to check if the delivery includes a doorstep drop-off or if they'll bring it inside and set it up.

• White Glove Service: This premium service includes the full setup of the new mattress and, often, removing the old one. While it might come at an additional cost, it can benefit those who are uncomfortable handling heavy mattresses.



• Old Mattress Removal: Not all companies offer this. If they do, there might be an associated fee. Before purchasing, inquire if the company provides this service, especially if you need the means to dispose of the old mattress yourself.
  

How Much Is A Mattress: Ensuring a Wise Purchase

As the saying goes, "Knowledge is power." But when it comes to mattress shopping, the adage might better be, "Personal knowledge is the key to restful nights." This section aims to guide you in making a personalized, well-informed decision, ensuring your chosen mattress aligns with your sleep needs and living space.

Prioritizing Personal Sleep Preferences and Needs

Every individual's sleep can be as unique as their fingerprint. While some people might find solace in a plush, cloud-like bed, others may require the sturdy support of a firmer mattress.

Importance of Firmness, Support, and Temperature Regulation

• Firmness Levels: Firmness can range from very soft to very firm. Your body type, weight, and preferred sleeping position can influence your best firmness. For example, side sleepers often benefit from a medium to soft mattress to cushion the shoulders and hips. In contrast, back sleepers might need a medium-firm to firm mattress to support spinal alignment.

• Support: A mattress should provide consistent support across its surface, ensuring no sagging areas that could cause spinal misalignment or discomfort. Innerspring and hybrid mattresses often excel, but advanced foam mattresses can also provide commendable support.

• Temperature Regulation: If you often wake up sweaty, you might want to consider mattresses with cooling properties. Latex and innerspring mattresses tend to be cooler, and many foam mattresses now incorporate gel or other cooling technologies.

Considerations for Special Needs (e.g., back pain, allergies)

• Back Pain: Those with back pain should prioritize mattresses that offer excellent support and pressure relief. Memory foam and latex mattresses can contour the body, reducing pressure points and supporting the spine.

• Allergies: Hypoallergenic mattresses or those resistant to dust mites and mold can be a blessing for allergy sufferers. Natural latex mattresses, for example, are naturally resistant to these allergens.

Room and Home Evaluations

Before investing in a mattress, evaluating the space where it will reside is essential. An oversized mattress can overwhelm a room, while a too-small mattress can look out of place.

Measuring for Size: Ensuring the Mattress Fits Comfortably

• Mattress Dimensions: Always measure the room's dimensions before selecting a mattress size. Consider the floor space and the room's layout, accounting for other furniture pieces, windows, and doorways.

• Access Path: It's not just the room that matters. Think about the journey the mattress will take from your front door to the bedroom. Tight corners, narrow hallways, or spiral staircases can present challenges, especially for larger mattress sizes.

Aesthetics and Bedroom Design Considerations

• Visual Balance: An oversized mattress in a small room can make the space feel cramped and throw off the room's visual balance. Conversely, a small mattress in a large room can look dwarfed and out of place.

• Bed Frame and Base: Ensure your bed frame or base is compatible with the new mattress. Some mattresses, especially foam and latex types, require solid support, so slatted frames might only be suitable if the slats are closely spaced.

• Room Decor: Consider the mattress's height, design, and color. Some modern mattresses come with aesthetically pleasing designs that can complement or even enhance the room decor.

Additional Resources for Informed Purchasing

Acquiring the right mattress is a long-term investment that involves not only understanding one's preferences but also a deep dive into the guarantees and evaluations by experts and prior users. The following section uncovers the layers of warranties and reviews, ensuring you know to make an informed decision.

Warranty and Guarantee Overview

A mattress warranty can testify to its quality, and the manufacturer has confidence in its product. However, not all warranties are created equal, and knowing what to expect is essential.

Typical Coverage and What to Look For

• Duration: Most quality mattresses come with a warranty that spans 10 to 25 years, but it's crucial to distinguish between a prorated and non-prorated warranty. Non-prorated warranties offer full coverage for a specific duration, while prorated ones reduce the amount of coverage as years go by.

• What's Covered: Common elements under warranty include manufacturing defects, abnormal sagging or indentation (usually more than 1.5 inches), and issues with the mattress cover, such as faulty zippers or seams.

• What's Needed: Many warranties require the mattress to be properly supported. Using an unsuitable foundation can void the warranty.
  

Red Flags and Exclusions to Be Wary Of

• Stains and Damage: A stained or damaged mattress often voids the warranty, hence the frequent recommendation for a mattress protector.

• Sagging Threshold: Some warranties might not cover sagging unless it reaches a certain depth, which can be problematic if you're uncomfortable but the indentation isn't "deep" enough.

• Transferred Ownership: Many warranties are valid only for the original purchaser and not transferable to subsequent owners.
  

Expert Reviews and Consumer Feedback

While personal preference plays a significant role in mattress satisfaction, expert reviews and feedback from previous buyers can comprehensively understand what to expect from a product.

Importance of Unbiased Reviews

• Expert Analysis: Professional reviewers often test numerous mattresses, giving them a unique perspective on how a particular model compares to others on the market. Their evaluations typically consider durability, material quality, and overall value.

• Beyond Marketing: While companies naturally highlight their products' positive aspects, unbiased reviews provide a more holistic view, addressing a mattress's strengths and potential shortcomings.

Trustworthy Platforms and Review Aggregators

• Reputable Websites: Look for review sites that disclose their testing methods and criteria. Websites like Sleepopolis, Sleep Advisor, and The Sleep Judge are known for in-depth mattress reviews.

• Consumer Reports: This non-profit organization provides independent reviews and ratings based on rigorous testing, including mattresses.



• User Reviews: Sites like Amazon, as well as brand-specific websites, often have user reviews. While they can be subjective, a pattern in reviews (either positive or negative) can provide a clearer picture of the mattress's overall quality and performance.