Should you buy a cheap mattress?

When your mattress is past its best and needs replacing, you may be tempted to purchase a cheaper one, especially if you have other expenses or priorities. However, as with most things, you generally get what you pay for, and mattresses are no exception. While a cheaper mattress may save you money initially, it could cost you more in the long run if it needs to be replaced sooner than expected. This doesn’t necessarily mean you should always choose an expensive mattress, but it should be comfortable and supportive.   

Of course, ‘cheap’ is somewhat subjective; a mattress that costs £500 may seem expensive to some but affordable to others. Regardless of what you consider cheap, it’s important to compare different options carefully to ensure you’re getting your money’s worth.

When should you buy a cheap mattress?

If you’re buying a mattress for your main bed, it’s generally best to spend as much as you can reasonably afford, especially since we spend around a third of our lives sleeping. A cheaper mattress may not provide the comfort and support you need, and may wear out more quickly than a higher-quality one.

However, there are situations where buying a cheap mattress may be necessary, for example, if you’re on a tight budget or need a mattress for temporary or occasional use, such as in a guest bedroom. Just keep in mind that a cheaper mattress will have its limitations.

You’re on a tight budget

If you’re working with a limited budget, perhaps due to rising costs, other priorities, or a change in financial circumstances, purchasing a more affordable mattress may be necessary. However, if you have a lot of outgoings but expect your financial situation to improve, it may be best to wait until you have a larger budget and can invest in a better-quality mattress.

On the other hand, if your mattress is uncomfortable and affecting your sleep, it’s best to replace it straight away rather than trying to persevere with it, even if that means spending slightly less than you may have preferred.

That said, if you’re not under any financial constraints, avoid setting your budget too low. Otherwise, you could end up with a mattress that doesn’t meet your needs and regret not spending a little more. Many people underestimate the importance of quality sleep. They would rather spend their money on other things, such as a new car or a kitchen. However, good sleep is essential for our health and well-being, so investing in a good-quality mattress should be a priority. 

The mattress is for a guest bedroom

If the mattress is just for occasional use, such as for guests, a more affordable model may be perfectly adequate. However, it’s worth considering your guests’ needs; adults, particularly those with back pain, may benefit from a more comfortable and supportive mattress.

If the bed is primarily for one person, a single bed, which is usually cheaper than larger sizes, may be sufficient. On the other hand, if you need a slightly wider bed to accommodate couples, a three-quarter or standard double bed is a good option.

Short-term or temporary use

A cheaper mattress can be a good option for short-term or temporary needs, such as if you own a rental property that needs a mattress for different guests, or you’re staying somewhere for a few weeks or months and just need something temporary to sleep on.

The mattress is for a child

Children have different sleep needs from adults. While they don’t usually require the same levels of support, it’s still important to choose a mattress that accommodates their growing bodies. Children’s mattresses are typically smaller and constructed with thinner comfort and support layers, making them more affordable than mattresses designed for adults. 

What influences the price of a mattress?

Mattress prices can vary considerably, from under £100 to several thousand pounds. Several factors affect the cost of a mattress, including its construction, size, and the quality and quantity of materials used. You’ll also generally pay more for well-known or established brands.

Materials

Mattresses are constructed with comfort and support layers, which vary in thickness and quality. Cheaper mattresses often have thinner comfort layers made from synthetic materials, such as polyester, and compact foam pads. In contrast, higher-quality mattresses are typically made with thicker layers of natural materials, such as wool, cotton, cashmere, and horsehair. These materials tend to be more luxurious, breathable, and longer-lasting. 

Construction

Cheaper mattresses are typically mass-produced and made by machine. They cost less to manufacture, which is reflected in their lower price. In contrast, higher-quality mattresses are often handmade to much higher standards. Some models are hand side-stitched, a labour-intensive technique that involves stitching the mattress border to the outer rows of springs. Hand-side stitching reinforces the perimeter, helps prevent sagging, and allows the mattress to retain its shape.

Features and technology

Modern mattresses often incorporate the latest features and technologies. Foam mattresses, in particular, may include temperature-regulating features, such as cooling gels and breathable fabrics to keep the sleeping surface cool, dry, and comfortable. Some mattresses may come with built-in sleep tracking technology and smart features to improve the sleep experience, while air mattresses may come with adjustable firmness options. While these additions provide several benefits, they also tend to increase the overall cost of the mattress.

Branding and reputation

Well-known and established mattress brands are typically more expensive because of their reputation. Shoppers often view these brands as trustworthy and reliable, and are therefore willing to pay higher prices. However, while lesser-known mattress companies may not have the same reputation or marketing resources as established brands, they can still offer good-quality mattresses at more competitive prices. It’s worth keeping an open mind when shopping for a new mattress, and don’t just limit yourself to household brands. 

Sizing

Mattresses are usually priced according to their size, with larger mattresses, such as king and super-king, typically costing more. This is because they contain more materials and often take longer to manufacture. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean you should choose a smaller mattress if you’re on a limited budget. Couples often sleep better in larger beds, as they provide more space to move and stretch out, so if you share a bed, it’s often worthwhile to opt for a bigger size.

What are the drawbacks of cheaper mattresses?

While purchasing a cheaper mattress may initially save you money, there are several drawbacks to consider. There is an old saying, ‘buy cheap, buy twice’, and this is often true when it comes to mattresses.

Durability

The typical lifespan of a mattress is between 7 and 10 years. However, the components inside cheaper mattresses tend to break down more quickly, which means they may need replacing much sooner than expected.

Lack of comfort and support

Cheaper mattresses are often made with lower-quality materials, such as low-density foam or polyester padding. These comfort layers tend to be thinner, and the lack of cushioning can lead to discomfort, poor support, and pressure points, particularly around the shoulders and hips.

Partner disturbances

Cheaper mattresses often transfer more movement across the sleeping surface, making them less effective at absorbing movement than higher-quality models. This means that if you share a bed, you and your partner are more likely to disturb one another when turning over or getting in and out of bed.

Limited warranty

Most new inexpensive mattresses come with a standard 12-month guarantee or warranty against manufacturing faults, such as broken springs or premature sagging. However, if there are any issues after this period, it’s unlikely that the manufacturer will repair or replace the mattress.

In contrast, higher-quality mattresses often come with longer warranties, typically 5, 10, or even 25 years, giving you peace of mind, knowing your investment will stand the test of time.

Check the condition of your bed base

Buying a cheap mattress and keeping the old bed base may seem like a cost-effective solution when you’re on a limited budget. However, since the two work together, they must be compatible. An old or worn-out base could damage your new mattress and may even void its warranty or guarantee. Therefore, it’s usually best to purchase the mattress and base together to avoid any long-term issues.

Tips on how to save money on a new mattress

There are several ways you can choose a new mattress without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to consider.

• Mattress sales and promotions take place throughout the year. However, summer and winter sales are usually a good time to buy a new mattress. There are also some good deals on new mattresses during Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
• Retailers often sell mattresses from display at reduced prices. While these mattresses may not be in perfect condition, they can provide comfort and quality at an affordable price.
• Shopping online for a new mattress can often be cheaper than buying in-store. Online retailers may offer lower prices because they typically have lower overhead costs and can pass these savings on to shoppers.
• Don’t be afraid to negotiate on the price. If you don’t ask, you don’t get!
• Read what others are saying online. If an inexpensive mattress gets positive reviews, it may be worth considering.
• Research the reputation of the seller to ensure they are genuine and trustworthy. Knowing you’re in safe hands should you require any help and support is crucial.

Final thoughts

Don’t underestimate the importance of a good night’s sleep. We spend around a third of our lives sleeping, so choosing a comfortable and supportive mattress is essential. You should generally spend as much as you can reasonably afford on a new mattress, especially if it’s for your main bed.

Think of it this way: if you spend £1,000 on a new mattress, it will cost you just 40 pence a night if it lasts seven years; that’s less than the cost of a pint of milk or a loaf of bread!

That said, not all cheap mattresses are poorly constructed. While they often contain inexpensive materials and may not last as long as luxury models, you can sometimes find a good-value basic mattress without spending a fortune.

Our Bed Buyer’s Guide is a great place to start if you need advice on choosing a new mattress. You can also try our Mattress Finder Quiz: Just answer a few simple questions to receive mattress suggestions based on your needs and preferences.