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Last Updated March 13, 2024
For couples who don't need a lot of space while they sleep, queen mattresses are the best affordable option. There is enough room for two people of average size to fit inside without crowding. A typical queen mattress with top-notch design and materials will cost you more than $500. However, this won't work for people who have a very limited budget.
We've already created an article for queen mattresses under $1,000. Now we present this article to our budget-conscious readers.
Frequently, the first thought that enters your mind is, "Can you even find a queen mattress for under $500?" If you can, how can you get it, and where can you find it? Furthermore, what types of queen mattresses are available for a budget of $500 or less? Do not worry—this article will address all of these questions and give you an in-depth understanding of getting the best queen mattress for under $500!
Yes, of course! If it weren't, we wouldn't have written this article, and you wouldn't be reading it. Now, we are aware of your concern that a queen bed is larger than a twin or a full bed and that a larger mattress costs more money. However, as we stated in our introduction, the queen size is also a good budget choice.
However, you'll need to keep your expectations a bit low regarding the mattress's quality. Additionally, it will take some time to look for a good queen mattress for less than $500. Making a list of reasonably priced queen mattresses that are of good quality may initially prove to be a challenge. But you'll also come across some excellent bargains, and you'll have to decide whether it's worthwhile to spend your money on them.
One way to determine if you are getting a decent-quality mattress is to check the materials it is made of. Extremely low-cost queen mattresses will be made of flimsy, synthetic materials that have not been thoroughly tested and are, therefore, neither long-lasting nor secure for use. Increased layers of low-density foam are also typically found in inexpensive mattresses, which means the support they offer will be insufficient.
This may seem daunting at first, but by the end of this article, you'll realize that not only is it possible to find a queen mattress for under $500, but you'll also be able to find one of sufficient quality to justify the investment.
Following a general set of steps can help you identify and distinguish the mattresses you're searching for. Here is how we suggest you do it:
Research is the cornerstone of finding a $500 mattress that's worth your dollar. To begin with, it is important to establish your preference in mattress type. Fortunately, nearly all five popular mattress types—innerspring, memory foam, latex, hybrid, and airbeds—are available within this price range. Go online and look up the characteristics of each of these mattress varieties. Choose the one that best complements your sleeping arrangement and preferences.
The mattress and department stores in your area will be your next stop. Find out if they have a personal website. This ought to include a list of every mattress they're selling, along with the asking price. Try to visit the stores in person if they don't have websites. In this way, you can also examine the mattress you're interested in. Additionally, the staff at the mattress store will be able to advise you on the newest models and mattresses that fall within your price range.
When you're done there, checkout the online shops. On the online mattress market, a plethora of mattress manufacturers can be found. You must only seek out those who are trustworthy and reputable. You can find websites and forums that provide reviews of mattress companies online. Check out their product reviews, warranty information, and return policy.
Start looking for mattresses under or just above $500 once you've established the reliability of a mattress manufacturer. Keep your mattress selections that are more expensive than $500 to a minimum in order to avoid being dissatisfied later on. You can go up to mattresses that cost $800, but the drawback is that you'll have to wait for a price drop, and it may not necessarily drop below $500.
As you do your research, keep a running list of the features of the mattresses you like. Make a preliminary list of 15–20 different mattresses. The price, material, and construction quality are the most crucial factors to consider. Make a note of how each mattress feels to you and whether or not it fits your criteria. You can easily compare options by creating a list or table.
Naturally, the initial list will include more items than you can manage. The final draft must be made with just five to ten mattresses. Comparisons are useful in this situation.
Try to compare the brands from which you intend to buy. Make sure to compare their product reviews, service reviews, warranty, trial period, and policies to determine their dependability and reputation. Examine the differences between each mattress's features, quality, reviews, and price. The final list should only include mattresses that are of comparable quality to the price tag.
Not every queen mattress you choose needs to be under $500. It's possible that some mattresses are of a higher quality and have the customization and features you prefer. This raises the cost above your budget, and you will need a bit of patience to overcome this.
Mattress sale period is one of the best ways to bring a queen mattress over $500 into your budget. During these days/weeks, which usually occur every month, many mattress models are discounted by up to 50% or more. If you've included a mattress that costs close to $800 in your list, a $300–$350 price cut will allow you to purchase this more expensive, high-quality mattress for less than $500.
Mattress sale take place during holidays and shopping weekends. This mainly include days like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Veterans Day, and Presidents' Day. While you're waiting, you should also subscribe to email lists. This can notify you and draw your attention to in-store-only sales as well.
Along with mattress sale, March, April, May, and December are also when new mattress models are released onto the market. As a result, mattress manufacturers discount their older models.
The last step is to place the order and then wait again. We know, we know! You previously endured a wait, and now you must endure one more? You won't have to wait very long this time, so don't worry.
If you purchase the mattress from a physical retailer, you can simply load it into your car and drive off into the distance. If you can't afford to bring the mattress home yourself, the retailer will usually offer you shipping services at a cost.
Online shopping follows a similar procedure. During the waiting period, the retailer will give you an estimate of how long it will take to arrive at your location. Depending on the retailer, you may be able to get free shipping, or you may have to pay a small fee for shipping.
You can also choose to pay an additional fee for services like white glove delivery, which involves having the mattress brought to and set up in the desired room. However, since the majority of online mattresses are delivered in boxes (mattress-in-a-box), you can easily set one up yourself.
When making a purchase, make sure you understand the warranty, trial period, and return policy. Keep a copy of the transaction receipt in case you need to make a return. You should also make use of vouchers and coupon codes if you have them.
There is no doubt that the size of a mattress has a direct effect on its price. The bigger the size, the bigger the price. However, since we're only focusing queen-sized beds here, let's go through all the other factors that affect mattress prices.
Hybrid, innerspring, and all-foam mattresses are the three popular construction styles that are available to you. All foam is made entirely of foam, as opposed to hybrids and innerspring mattresses, which have layers of foam and springs. Traditional innerspring mattresses are typically less expensive than most hybrids and all foams. Hybrids cost more because they use better foam and springs. The majority of all foam mattresses are latex, memory, and polyfoams, with natural latex being the most expensive of the bunch.
The price of the mattress increases with material quality.
The materials that you will frequently encounter are latex, memory foam, polyfoam, and springs. Given the difficulty in obtaining the material, natural latex is frequently the most expensive option on this list. Springs, polyfoam, and memory foam are more readily available materials. Cooling, contouring, and support are just a few of the many unique qualities that each material possesses.
In many ways, buying mattresses online has surpassed buying them in-store. Not only does it offer more convenience, but it also offers better prices by allowing you to compare and contrast mattresses and brands. Online shopping gives you more financial freedom compared to in-person shopping, where you frequently have to make significant sacrifices.
When you make a mattress purchase from a physical retailer, shipping fees are charged. They frequently charge a fee based on how far you live. If you shop online, many mattress companies will offer free shipping, especially during mattress sales. Even otherwise, most online mattress retailers offer free shipping unless you reside outside of the area that the retailer serves.
An increase in mattress height will result in more layers being added, which will increase mattress prices. Increasing a mattress' height requires adding more materials to the mattress' construction, just as the number of materials required rises as a mattress' size does. The mattress heights that are frequently offered to you are 8, 10, and 12 inches, with each being $50 or $100 more expensive than the other.
Your mattress's longevity will depend on the caliber of the materials used in its construction and manufacturing. A good-quality mattress with a 10-year or longer lifespan will typically cost more than $500. A mattress under $500, however, can outlive its intended lifespan and even last longer than ten years with proper care.
An increase in coil count also increases the price.
The coil count refers to how many individual coils are present in an innerspring or hybrid mattress. The total number of coils in a queen-size innerspring or hybrid mattress can range anywhere from 400 to 1,200. It is believed that mattresses with more coils will last longer and provide better body support.
The thickness and firmness of a mattress, for example, are factors influenced by foam density. Compared to low-density foams like Talalay latex, higher-density foams like Dunlop latex typically last longer and offer more support and motion isolation. However, they're comparatively expensive.
You can get a queen mattress for under $500 at a variety of places. Here are some options: -
Nearly every type of indoor and outdoor furniture is available in furniture stores, including mattresses. Independent furniture stores offer great mattress prices in many US cities. They typically stock high-end mattresses that they sell for around $500.
Mattresses and bedroom furniture are undoubtedly among the many departments of goods found in a department store. Queen mattresses are typically available in limited numbers at department stores, but they are frequently of cheap quality and made by unknown manufacturers.
Mattresses are the sole focus of mattress shops. There are a few reputable stores that sell queen mattresses for less money. Although they might not be of the highest quality, these are still worth taking into account if you don't want to spend a lot of money.
In the online mattress market, upscale brands and mattress options are commonplace. Due to their lower overhead expenses, online mattress retailers frequently offer free shipping on queen mattresses and can afford to run year-round sales.
We advise online retailers as the best option. There is a convenience when you're shopping online, and the chances of you being able to find what you want are much better.
Buying a mattress from brick-and-mortar, furniture, or department stores is a bit risky nowadays, given the fact that they'll try to ensure that your money remains with them. The customer has to assume all the risks, and online shopping is a better alternative that offers safer shopping avenues. Online shopping also allows for convenient comparisons, and you can compare a lot of mattresses to find the cheapest, most viable option for you.
If you're planning on excluding online shopping, then make sure that the stores you visit sell good mattresses and have been in business for at least three to five years. Try to get a second opinion from someone who's shopped there before. Many mattress stores often have different prices for similar mattress models. Where a queen mattress costs $400, another store might have it for $300! Shop around and do your due diligence before finalizing your purchase.
Before making a queen mattress purchase, we advise visiting a few of the physical shops we listed in the preceding section. This applies best when you're not sure what you're looking for.
Go to a few stores and try out different mattresses. You'll notice that each store has a variety of brands and models. It would be wise to test them all out to determine which is most comfortable for you. If you enjoy the mattresses you test, you can order them online to save money on shipping (or pick them up if you live nearby). If you are dissatisfied with the options available in physical stores, you can always order one online.
When you are ordering online, you should always check the return policy and ensure that the shipping costs are reasonable. Online shopping is great in many ways, as it compacts the whole traditional shopping experience into a time-saving endeavor. Although it is the best option, buying a queen mattress for less than $500 can also be done in other ways. It is worthwhile to visit physical stores, particularly when there is a mattress sale going on.
Due to the intense competition from the online mattress market, physical store owners will be much more willing to provide mattresses at a favorable price. Additionally, you can also test out mattresses before buying them. Online shopping allows for trial periods, but if the mattress you receive isn't satisfactory right away, you'll need to return it soon after receiving it so that you can find another one. You can avoid this when you shop traditionally and limit your purchase to the mattress that you think will be worthwhile.
The quality of low-cost mattresses has improved. You can easily purchase a queen mattress of adequate quality for under $500 using online shopping, mattress sales, and coupons. However, we still advise you to have reasonable expectations. Expect a low- to mid-quality mattress that is made with adequately-fulfilling materials and has a lifespan of around 5-8 years. Most likely, you won't need to replace it for a few years.
The materials used are the main distinction between a low-cost mattress and a mid-range or high-end mattress. Low-end mattresses are made with low-quality, less expensive materials. A cheap mattress won't be as supportive or comfortable as you might hope.
If you want a good night's sleep, you need to get a quality mattress. A quality mattress may cost more upfront, but it is ultimately worth it. You should make sure you are getting a quality product, even if you only spend $500. Also, you should look out for the following characteristics when purchasing a mattress:
Make sure the mattress is comfortable. Comfort is subjective, so the only way to know if a mattress is comfortable is to try it out.
You want a mattress that is supportive. A supportive mattress will help keep your spine in alignment while you sleep. A mattress that is not supportive can cause problems such as lower back pain.
You want a mattress that will last for a while. You can tell how long a mattress will last by its material and warranty.
There are several types of mattresses available under $500, and each has its own pros and cons. The most popular ones are discussed below.
Innerspring mattresses are one of the most traditional types of mattresses. They are manufactured with coils, which are interwoven to form a supportive grid. This is then topped with a thin foam layer for cushioning and wrapped in fabric. This type of mattress provides a traditional, firm, and bouncy feel as well as excellent cooling due to its breathable construction.
Innerspring mattresses are a reasonable option for under $500, with basic materials and quality. However, make sure to keep an eye out for the coil count. A queen innerspring should have at least 400 coils.
For around $350 to $450, you can get a good enough queen innerspring that will last 5-6 years. The lower the price, the lower the quality of the innerspring coils used. Steel coils in low-end mattresses are of lower quality. As a result, they lose strength and are more likely to sag.
Memory foam is a synthetic material created by combining chemical compounds with polyurethane.When you lie down on memory foam queen mattresses, the thick layer of the material immediately begins to conform to your body. This offers great pressure relief and is a fantastic option for back pain sufferers. Its slower response time compared to its competitors, though, may be a drawback for some sleepers. Furthermore, it is more conforming and less springy.
Budget queen memory foam can occasionally cost more than $500. Utilizing coupons or waiting for a sale can help with this. If you are a hot sleeper who prefers to sleep cool, choose gel memory foam over regular memory foam. Take note that it may cost you more.
Hybrid mattresses, as the name implies, are a layered combination of two or more materials, typically with coils and foam as the primary components. The coils (mostly Bonnell or pocketed coils) are the support core, providing enough support and bounce for any sleeping position. The comfort layer, which sits above the support core, are made of foam (latex, memory foam, or polyfoam) for cushioning and comfort. This allows the mattress to provide you with the best qualities of both materials.
Hybrids are typically more expensive than innerspring mattresses, owing to the higher quality of materials used. Hybrids also have a thicker foam layer.
Queen hybrids under $500 are pretty hard to find, especially in traditional brick-and-mortar stores. You might be able to find some online, but to get good quality, you'll have to dig deep or wait for discounts. You may also have to compromise on the type of foam and coil used. Latex foam, for example, will be more expensive than memory foam.
Polyurethane, a type of synthetic plastic, is used to make polyfoam mattresses. It responds faster than memory foam and is also bouncy and firmer. However, polyfoam lacks the signature characteristics of memory foam, such as deep pressure relief and body contouring.
Polyfoam is an average choice for a budget of less than $500. Although they are less expensive than memory foam mattresses, they are also less resilient. Polyfoam is often criticized for excessive off-gassing and developing body impressions over time, making it not ideal for regular use.
Air mattresses/airbeds are made of synthetic materials and contain air chambers that allow you to inflate and deflate them as needed. They are mostly used as portable and temporary mattresses for outdoor activities or guest rooms. It is not recommended for long-term use because it lacks the necessary support that other mattress types provide.
There are plenty of air mattresses under $500, but almost none of them are suitable for long-term use.
Aside from the lack of support, there is also the issue of durability. These mattresses could be rendered useless if there is a tear in them that allows air to leak through.
With your budget, you'd most likely prefer a mattress that lasts longer and is more suitable for long-term use. In this case, we propose alternative solutions.
Natural latex is a material derived from the sap of rubber trees. It is a versatile material that provides both comfort and support. Furthermore, natural latex is cooling and highly durable, often lasting up to 15 years. Synthetic and blended latex types are additional varieties of latex. Petrochemicals like styrene and butadiene, which are used to make styrene-butadiene rubber, are used to make synthetic latex. Blended latex is a mix of natural and synthetic latex. Both of these materials are similar to natural latex in some ways.
Natural latex is nearly impossible to find for less than $500, especially in queen size. Only during sales should you expect to find one, and even then, there is no guarantee. You can expect to find queen synthetic/blended latex mattresses more frequently in this price range. While they won't be as strong as natural latex, they are a good budget option if latex is all you need.
In addition to their price and type, keep an eye out for these things when you're researching mattresses: -
Your sleeping position affects how well you sleep and the quality of the mattress you're using determines how well each position works.
A medium-firm mattress is the most preferred option for side sleepers as it supports the body without putting too much pressure on the sides and shoulders. Back sleepers can choose a medium-firm mattress as well, but stomach sleepers will need something firmer to prevent spinal misalignment.
Your perception of the mattress' firmness determines how soft or firm it is. You can avoid sinking if the firmness is just right. Most people favor medium-firm mattresses. Medium firmness provides a balance between comfort and support, leading to pain relief and good sleep. If you weigh more than 230 pounds or less than 130 pounds, a firm or soft firmness is preferable.
A comfortable and contouring mattress surface gently caresses your pressure points, relieving them of any accumulated stress and pressure. The firmness, thickness (height), and material of a mattress all contribute to the amount of pressure relief you receive.
When sleeping with a partner, pet, or child, you don't want any motion transfer caused by their movements. The same is true for them, as they, too, would prefer that no movement wake them up in the middle of the night. Motion isolation prevents movement from being transmitted from one end of the mattress to the other.
The right temperature determines whether you wake up in the middle of the night or not. Some people prefer hot and cozy environments, which regular memory foam can provide by trapping body heat. Others who prefer cool environments should consider purchasing a cooling mattress, such as natural latex or gel-infused memory foam. Additional materials, such as natural wool, can also be effective temperature regulators.
The level of support provided by a mattress's edges is referred to as edge support. You want your mattress to properly support you while sitting or sleeping on the edge, preventing you from slipping and falling. The reinforced edges of a mattress with edge support will keep you from falling off the edge.
Budget mattresses may not last as long as you would like in their natural state. The best you can hope for is 7 to 8 years. However, there are methods you can use to address this issue and extend the life of your cheap mattress under $500. It should be noted that some of these methods may incur an additional cost, which could push the total price of your mattress above $500.
Certain retailers will give you the option of having experts set up your bed. One such service is white-glove delivery, in which the company men bring the mattress up to your home and then carefully set it up. If you are new to mattresses and/or do not know how to properly set one up, these services ensure that your mattress is properly set up for the long term. These services, however, may incur additional charges.
Airing out your mattress allows it to expand to its full size while also wicking away any moisture or impurities that may have been trapped inside. Airing out your mattress every few months can extend its life significantly. Some mattresses, such as memory foam, require you to air them out before using them to avoid VOCs and off-gassing.
Mattress toppers are foam layers that can be placed on top of your mattress to reduce wear and tear and extend its lifespan. They come in a variety of materials, including latex, memory foam, and polyfoam.
A mattress protector is an encasing that wraps around your mattress to protect it from dirt and moisture. They can be added when you order the mattress, or you can buy them separately, which may save you money.
Cleaning your mattress, whether by vacuuming crumbs and dust from the surface or spot-cleaning any liquid spillage, keeps it healthy and in good condition for a longer period of time. On a weekly or monthly basis, inspect your mattress for any impurities. Purchasing a mattress protector simplifies the cleaning process because you only need to wash it every now and then.
The retailer you buy from may provide you with instructions on how to clean your mattress. Some mattresses can be machine washed, whereas others should never be. Other such considerations may apply to your mattress. If the retailer does not provide you with any instructions, ask them or conduct your own research on the internet.
By rotating and flipping your mattress every six months, you can prevent sagging or dips in the surface. Consistently sleeping on one side of the mattress causes it to sink down, providing you with less support and increasing your risk of problems like spinal misalignment. Do not be afraid to ask for assistance with rotating and flipping your mattress if it is heavy. You could sustain a back injury if you try to do it yourself.
When pets jump on top of the bed, it is a pain to deal with. They may leave their excrement behind, requiring you to clean it up. In a similar way, their fur may become stuck to the mattress, making cleaning much more difficult for you. If your pets pee on the bed on a regular basis, the liquid may end up damaging your bed in the long run.
Adults can usually resist jumping on their beds, but children enjoy jumping up and down on their beds. This action could severely damage the foam or springs within the bed, and budget mattresses are not well known for the quality of materials used, resulting in a significant reduction in the lifespan of your mattress.
This is a habit that the majority of adults have. We enjoy having a snack while lying in our beds, watching a video or a TV show. Eating in bed is convenient and enjoyable, but the crumbs and liquids that end up on the mattress may attract ants, mold, bacteria, fungi, and other pests.
Mattress sales occurring during holidays and weekends are the best times to go shopping for a mattress. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Presidents' Day are examples of these occasions. March, April, May, and December are also good times to shop because these months see the introduction of new mattress models, resulting in older models being discounted by retailers.
Mattresses are expensive due to their materials. Premium quality mattresses provide superior comfort and support while lasting significantly longer than budget mattresses. This can be attributed to their construction, which will raise their cost as well. Traditional retailers' markups on mattresses also add to the cost. Online retailers are helpful in this situation because they have lower overhead costs and offer mattresses at lower markups.
An affordable memory foam mattress or innerspring mattress is the best mattress you can find for under $500. Innerspring mattresses can be added to the list of the best cooling mattress types and they also provide great support. On the other hand, memory foam mattresses offer great pressure relief and contour. Adding a mattress topper or mattress pad can help raise their lifespan by a few more years.
A price range of $700 and $1300 would be a reasonable cost for a queen mattress. It is affordable for most people, you can customize it to your heart's content, and it will be of high quality, making your investment worthwhile.
Queen mattresses are worth the money for couples or large individuals. They provide more space to move around than a full or twin XL bed. Queen mattresses can also be purchased for less than $500, but they will be of lower quality and may break down after a few years.
Related blog posts:
1. Mattress Sizes Chart and Bed Dimensions Guide
2. California King vs. Queen Mattress Size
3. King vs. Split King Mattress Size
4. A Detailed Guide on Full vs. Queen Size Mattresses: Which One Should You Sleep On?
5. Twin vs. Full vs. Queen Mattress Size Comparison
Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.
