Budget-Friendly Mattresses Priced Under $500
Affordable Mattresses: CHOICE Experts Debunk the Myth
Are you in the market for a new mattress but hesitant about the cost? You might be surprised to find out that you can save hundreds of dollars by haggling and shopping smartly, according to consumer advocacy group CHOICE.
In their latest review, CHOICE experts have found that high-quality affordable mattresses do exist, even for buyers on a shoestring budget. Two mattresses under $500 ranked equal second overall, outperforming many mattresses costing two to four times as much.
Brands like Ikea, Koala, Emma, Sleeping Duck, and Sealy have models that fit this bill, as per CHOICE's review. In fact, some mattresses under $300 scored in third and fourth place, matching or exceeding more expensive models. Over half of the mattresses recommended by CHOICE experts cost less than $1000, making good support accessible on a budget.
CHOICE mattress expert Peter Zaluzny highlights that these findings dispel the myth that cheaper mattresses are always poor in comfort or support.
Shopping Smarter
To get the best deal, consider buying a mattress-in-a-box for potentially cheaper prices and generous trial periods. Sales seasons are frequent for mattresses, so waiting for a discount can be beneficial. Some retailers offer discounts for buying more than one mattress or as part of a bedroom furniture package. Smaller mattress sizes like a double may be more budget-friendly compared to queen or king sizes.
Look Beyond the Marketing
CHOICE experts caution against being too influenced by clever marketing. Factors that influence the price of mattresses may include what the mattress is made from, where it's made, and the quality of its materials. Researching, shopping around, and comparing prices is important in the competitive mattress market.
Expert Recommendations
In addition to CHOICE’s Australian-focused recommendations, other expert sources affirm that good mattresses under $500 exist. Business Insider, Mattress Firm, Tom's Guide, and SleePare provide complementary picks and detailed reviews showing that affordable mattresses have improved significantly.
For consumers in the US, Business Insider recommends the Allswell Mattress, Zinus Green Tea Cooling Foam Mattress, and Sleepy’s Basic Innerspring Firm. SleePare mentions the Siena Memory Foam Mattress as a top value for memory foam under $500.
The Best Deals
If you want precise mattress models tested and rated by CHOICE experts within the $500 budget, the CHOICE website's detailed mattress test results (usually available to members) would be the best place to check for updated rankings and exclusive discounts. Aldi sells its popular 'mattress in a box' for about $250 for the queen-sized bed-in-a-box.
Expensive mattresses do not always perform better than cheaper models, so don't let a high price tag deter you from finding a comfortable, supportive, and affordable mattress. With a little research and smart shopping, you can find the perfect mattress without breaking the bank.
[1] Source: CHOICE's August 2025 review [2] Source: Mattress Firm [3] Source: Business Insider [4] Source: SleePare
- With a wide range of affordable options available, you can upgrade your lifestyle without investing heavily in a mattress, as evidenced by the findings of CHOICE, where two mattresses under $500 ranked second overall.
- When shopping for a mattress, it's essential to look beyond fashion-and-beauty marketing tactics and focus on factors like the quality of materials, as CHOICE experts highlight that cheaper mattresses can still provide good comfort and support.
- For those on a budget, shopping destinations like Ikea, Koala, Emma, Sleeping Duck, Sealy, and even Aldi offer affordable mattresses that match or exceed more expensive models, making it possible to transform your home-and-garden space with a comfortable, cost-effective mattress.
