So you’re on a hunt for the best mattress-in-a-box. Welcome to our world. We’ve spent countless hours researching, talking about, and sleeping on leading online mattresses far and wide, from soft beds that mold to your body to mattresses made for specific positions like side sleeping. Not sure where to find your perfect mattress match? Allow us to be your guide. We’ve hosted Sleep Week—our spotlight on editor-approved bedroom essentials for a good night’s rest—for five years now, and continually testing mattresses-in-a-box is what we do best.
Our Top Picks for the Best Mattresses-in-a-Box
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Options span Amazon’s best-selling mattress to luxury bed brands that will help you elevate your dream sleep setup. And while it might come as a surprise, finding the best mattress-in-a-box for your bedroom can also do wonders to elevate its design. If you have a maximalist bedroom, look for a grand mattress-in-a-box (around 15 inches or more) that’ll turn your bed into the centerpiece of the room. And if you lean more on the minimalist or modern side, opt for a mattress with a lower profile to literally ground your bedroom design.
Even with all this in mind, we know that there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all mattress. And given that a high-quality mattress should last you over a decade (with a price tag that can reach well over $1,000), this is an investment you definitely want to get right. We’ve done the legwork of sleep-testing leading mattresses so we can provide clarity and insight into which bed-in-a-box might be right for your needs. Below, read each mattress review to find your next new bed. (PS: We keep this page updated with all the best mattress sales that pop up.)
Please note that all prices in this story reflect queen sizes. Check retailers for additional price and size information.
Best Overall Mattress-in-a-Box
Upsides
- It’s one of the most affordable price points you’ll find for a mattress with a high-end hybrid construction
- The breathable design allows for relief, no matter the season
- Its minimal motion transfer makes it perfect for co-sleepers who wake up easily from movement
- There are several body-contouring foam layers for a subtle cradling experience
Downsides
Not made with as many earth-friendly materials as other options in our list
Who It’s Best For
- Couples who are seeking motion isolation as they sleep
- All types of sleepers looking for a balanced, plush yet supportive mattress
Specs
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Layers: Six layers: four various types of memory foam for contouring cushion, one of foam-encased pocketed micro coils for support, and a hand-tufted cashmere blend cover
- Firmness: Semifirm
- Height: 13 inches
- Weight: N/A
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Mattress tester: Michael Shome, global visuals director
How did the delivery go? The delivery was incredibly fast and efficient. Customer service was easy and pleasant. To get the mattress in place, one needs some support. If you live alone, you’ll definitely need to recruit a friend to help move the mattress in place.
What was the setup like? The mattress arrived neatly compressed in a compact box but, as expected, it is quite heavy. Two people are required to maneuver the mattress.
How firm is the mattress? The mattress is moderately firm, but the plush Euro Top adds an extra layer of coziness and comfort. The DreamCloud Premier King has a super-cozy cashmere top and seven decadent layers of adaptive support. There is also a one-year trial period for mattress buyers looking for longer-term flexibility and assessment. Too often mattresses lose their support after consecutive nights of sleep, which makes the trial period quite valuable.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 8
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? I would certainly recommend this to a friend and have already suggested it to my parents. They often complain about the annoyance of disturbed sleep from transfer movement. The DreamCloud truly minimizes sleep disturbance from your neighbor.
Does the DreamCloud offer any specific luxury details? This mattress stands out for its six high-end layers of supportive coils, plush memory foam, and cooling materials to check all the boxes for a good night’s sleep. Not to mention, it also has a patented CloudQuilt cover that’s designed for an extra touch of comfort and airiness.
What bed frames does this mattress pair best with? The mattress can fit on virtually any type of bed frame, but if you want to go big, we suggest shopping for a grand design, like a platform bed in a bold color.
Best Memory Foam Mattress
Upsides
- It’s soft to the touch and also has a medium-firm design so you don’t feel like you’re sinking in the mattress
- Good motion control to help prevent couples from feeling each other’s every move
- Cooling cover for sleepers who crave a balance of plush comfort and cooling relief
Downsides
Not made of organic materials like other mattresses in our list
Who It’s Best For
- Side sleepers who like plusher sleep surfaces
- With contouring foam, this bed is made to give relief to those with back and hip pain
Specs
- Mattress type: Memory foam
- Layers: Four layers: CertiPur-US certified quilted gel memory foam, gel memory foam, and “adaptive hi core” memory foam, with a foam base and a cooling Tencel cover to prevent overheating
- Firmness: Medium-firm
- Height: 12 inches
- Weight: 83 pounds
- Warranty: 365-night sleep trial, lifetime warranty, and free shipping and full refunds
Mattress tester: Nick Mafi, contributor
How did the delivery go? The delivery process was very easy. The Nectar mattress appeared in my apartment lobby in a box that seemed far too small to hold a queen-size mattress.
What was the setup like? After bringing it up to my apartment and opening the package, I moved the deflated mattress to my bed frame. From there, the mattress (which was packaged in plastic wrapping) quickly expanded to fit my queen-size bed frame. I allowed the mattress 72 hours to fully inflate, per the directions, before sleeping on it.
How firm is the mattress? My body sinks into the all-foam mattress a bit more than I had anticipated, but that’s likely due to the fact that it’s been over a decade since I’ve had any sort of memory foam mattress.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I would say an 8. The mattress is comfortable, but I wasn’t used to the give of a memory foam bed at first.
How well did you sleep? To my surprise, I am actually sleeping better on this mattress than I was on my old one.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes, absolutely. My biggest concern was that I would take the time and energy to get a new mattress and regret my decision, which would mean I would have to go through the whole process again. Luckily, that didn’t happen, and I’ve been very happy with the mattress.
Does the Nectar offer any specific luxury details? There are five memory foam layers that all serve a unique purpose, from the pressure-relief layer for anyone experiencing chronic pain to motion isolation layer catered to co-sleepers.
What bed frames does this mattress pair best with? The nectar is an all-around favorite when it comes to mattresses. And since it has a pretty standard 12-inch height, we think it would work well with nearly any contemporary frame. We’re impartial to Thuma frames since they have a modern feel and can blend in well with most interior design styles.
Best Luxury Hybrid Mattress
Upsides
- 13 inches of expertly crafted pocketed coils, microcoils, and comfort foams give this bed its robust feel
- Design details like the signature blue-and-white ticking pattern and hand stitching make this mattress a sight for sore eyes
- Boasts a supportive and breathable build for nightly comfort
Downsides
Pricey
Who It’s Best For
- Those seeking an elegant, heritage hybrid mattress designed to last
Specs
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Layers: 5,500 pocketed coils in the foundation layer, three layers of microcoils, and three layers of comfort foam
- Firmness: Medium plush
- Height: 13 inches
- Weight: N/A
- Warranty: 10-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial
Mattress tester: Zoë Sessums, contributor
How did the delivery go? All Ostermoor mattresses arrive air sealed and roll packed in a box, no white glove service is available. Once removed from the packaging, the mattress quickly came to life and seemed to be fully expanded by the end of the day. Packages are shipped using UPS’s Standard Shipping service, which usually arrive three to eight days after the order is placed.
What was the setup like? Because it’s a traditional, full-weight mattress (and I was bringing it from my front step up multiple flights of stairs), the setup required two people. I did have help, and I’d definitely recommend that for most people—it’s not difficult, but it is heavy. Luckily the mattress is packed in two parts (the base and the topper) to make it slightly easier. (One very strong person can do it!)
How firm is the mattress? I typically prefer a firmer mattress, and The Bedford really delivers on that front. It’s firm but not rigid—supportive in all the right places while still feeling comfortable and plush enough to relax into. From the moment I plopped down, I was amazed by how comfortable it was. It strikes a perfect balance between spring and cushion—just the right amount of give without ever feeling too soft. I consistently wake up feeling rested and supported.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? A solid 10. It’s incredibly comfortable while still being supportive, which is exactly what I want in a mattress. While I love this mattress for how comfortable it is and how well I sleep on it, I also really love how it looks. I’ve never realized how beautiful a bare mattress could be, but this one is very attractive. The tufted top, the blue and white ticking pattern, the hand-stitched details—it feels like a piece of luxury furniture, not just a place to sleep.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes, I would—especially to someone who values design and craftsmanship as much as comfort. It’s definitely a splurge, but if you’re ready to invest in something that feels bespoke and luxurious, it’s worth every penny.
Does the Ostermoor offer any specific luxury details? It's an elevated experience from start to finish. As a heritage brand with deep roots—founded in 1853 in what is now Manhattan’s Nolita neighborhood—the brand has innovated from horsehair and straw beds to even more premium natural materials like cotton batting. It also offers rare attention to visual design.
What bed frames does this mattress pair best with? Ostermoor’s mattresses are compatible with slatted foundations, solid bases, and box springs, so the world is your oyster when selecting a frame. Thanks to its striped pattern—which can beautifully peer through a sheer set of sheets—we think this mattress would pair especially well with a coastal-inspired bed frame. Think a rattan-accented frame or wooden frame in a white hue with scalloped details.
Best Budget-Friendly Pick
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Upsides
- Customizable to fit a variety of mattress foundations
- The easy setup is perfect for one or two people to get in place
- Great cooling technology to give hot sleepers relief
Downsides
Not plush to the touch and shorter mattress return window than competitors
Who It’s Best For
- Those who like a contouring feel
- Sleepers who tend to overheat easily and need some sort of mattress cooling technology
Specs
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Layers: Six layers including cooper-infused memory foam, high density support foam, and pocketed spring coils for cooling comfort
- Firmness: Medium
- Height: 14 inches
- Weight: 95 pounds
- Warranty: 90-day returns
Mattress tester: Rebecca Grambone, contributor
How did the delivery go? The delivery process was not as smooth as I would have liked it to go. I received a delivery confirmation even though the mattress had not been delivered, and then after going back and forth with customer service a mattress appeared downstairs in my apartment about a week later, unannounced. Aside from the delivery process, the mattress was compressed, which made moving it up to my apartment easier.
What was the setup like? The setup was pretty simple. Once we removed the boxed outer layer, the mattress popped right out and expanded on its own. I did have help but feel that I could have done it alone if I really needed to.
How well did you sleep? At first, the mattress was harder than what I am used to, but soon over time, it formed to my body. I feel supported yet super comfortable, and, as promised, it keeps me very cool. Their cooling technology actively draws and releases excess heat away from your body through the cooling top cover and copper foam. I look forward to going to bed every night because I’m so comfortable and find that I’m not waking up in the middle of the night to adjust my body or find a cozier position.
Even though Allswell is a newer name, one thing that really stood out to me about this brand is how customizable their mattresses are. They have several options based on your ideal sleep situation. Whether you have a box spring, a flat platform bed frame, an adjustable bed frame, or a slatted frame, all their mattresses are designed to be compatible with a variety of sleeping setups.
How firm is the mattress? I would say that this mattress is a middle ground mattress. It’s not too plush but not too hard—it’s just right!
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I’d rate this mattress at an 8.5. It did take a bit of time to break in but was worth the wait.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? I would definitely recommend this mattress to a friend because I can tell that my sleep has improved ever since I switched to it. I wouldn’t change anything about this mattress; however, I will note that this mattress wouldn’t be a good option for someone who likes something more plush.
Does the AllsWell offer any specific luxury details? While this might appear to be a no-frills, affordable option at first glance, it boasts a quilted cover for extra comfort, including the option of a cooling quilted cover for hot sleepers.
What bed frames does this mattress pair best with? Since it’s modest in design, we think this mattress would pair nicely with a classic wooden frame like an editor-approved option from the Zinus collection.
Best Organic Mattress
Upsides
- Made of natural materials like natural latex rubber for eco-minded shoppers
- Includes sturdy pocketed coils for added support as you sleep
- Soft and warm wool cover is ideal for those who sleep cold
Downsides
Might be too firm for side sleepers without a mattress topper
Who It’s Best For
- Back sleepers since it leans firmer to keep the body and spine in alignment
- Eco-conscious shoppers who look for organic mattress materials and overall production ethos
Specs
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Layers: Five layers: Made of 100% natural latex rubber from sustainable farms, GOTS-certified organic cotton and wool, plus pocketed support coils
- Firmness: Medium-firm
- Height: 10 inches
- Weight: 94 pounds
- Warranty: 100-night trial period, 10-year warranty, free shipping and returns
Mattress tester: Kat Kovac, contributor
How did the delivery go? Delivery was seamless. The bed showed up at my door in a box that I thought was entirely too tiny to fit a king-size mattress; the fact that it was compressed to that small of a size blew my mind. I opened up the box with no issues and laid the mattress out in my living room to let it breathe before putting it on my bed frame (which I didn’t even need to do, as there was no chemical off-gassing). I couldn’t believe that there was no smell—something that only made me more aware of how other products I’ve tried in the past have reeked of chemical smells. The quality of the actual materials was visible just from handling it out of the box.
I did have to call some friends over to help—I live alone and there was no way I could lift a king-size mattress up a flight of stairs by myself.. It was totally easy with the help of one other person—two being a plus, but not at all necessary. For $249, Avocado offers white glove delivery, which includes in-home mattress delivery and assembly, removal of packaging materials, and complimentary removal of an old mattress and foundation if it’s dry, clean, and in good condition.
How firm is the mattress? I prefer a more firm sleeping experience, this mattress was perfect as it wasn’t too soft to where I sank in, but wasn’t too firm to where it felt like a rock.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 9. This latex mattress is on the firmer side and is best for back or stomach sleepers, but if you add a topper, it should be perfect for side sleepers as well. The back support was there, and as someone who’s five eleven, that was sincerely appreciated. The American Chiropractic Association has endorsed Avocado mattresses since 2020, which gets five stars of approval from me.
How well did you sleep? I slept like a baby with this mattress. I could not be happier knowing that I now sleep on 100% organic materials that were ethically produced into a high-quality bed. Additionally, knowing that I’m not breathing in toxic chemicals when I lay my head at night is huge. The wool fabric was super warm and soft to the touch, and my sheets fit perfectly.
If you could change anything about the mattress what would it be? I wouldn’t change anything about this mattress for me personally, but it might not be the best choice for someone who’s a side sleeper, as it’s more on the firm side. If you are a side sleeper, and still want a nontoxic mattress option, the Avocado Green Mattress has an added pillow top option. Another great topper option is the Alpaca Wool Mattress Topper, made of 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton and alpaca fiber, which is even softer than the one previously mentioned. (I personally like the Alpaca Wool Topper.)
How does this mattress compare to other mattresses you’ve slept on? This is my mattress brand from here on out. You can’t get anything better than their commitment to nontoxic, organic materials, as well as their mission to create more sustainable manufacturing overall. I might venture into their pillows next. I find it so awesome that they’ve created kids products too.
Does the Avocado mattress offer any specific luxury details? The latex construction is its most notable luxury detail. The sustainable material helps prevent off-gassing in a standard bed in a box.
What bed frames does this mattress pair best with? Because of the sustainable makeup, Avocado recommends a solid wood bed frame to pair with this bed.
Best for Hot Sleepers
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Upsides
- It’s on the affordable side and often on sale for additional savings
- The cooling cover allows for a more refreshing feel to a sleep setup
- The memory foam layers adjust to virtually any sleep position
Downsides
Leans more firm than medium, according to our tester
Who It’s Best For
- Those who tend to experience night sweats
- Stomach sleepers for like a soft yet supportive bed
Specs
- Mattress type: Hybrid or memory foam
- Layers: Four layers of body-hugging memory foam and a cooling cover
- Firmness: Medium
- Height: 10 inches
- Weight: Between 40–83 pounds
- Warranty: Free shipping and returns, 10-year warranty, and a 100-night sleep trial
Mattress tester: Cade Hiser, contributor
How did the delivery and setup go? The delivery was supersimple and fast. The overall setup was even faster! From right out of the box, it rolled out nicely onto the box spring on top of my bed frame. There were no complicated instructions or anything like that. The mattress was ready for sleep that evening.
How firm is the mattress? The mattress was honestly a bit firmer than I expected. The Sealy website rates it about a 6/10 on their firm scale, but I’d put it closer to an 8. The two foam layers make a difference.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I would give this mattress an 8 out of 10 in terms of overall comfort. It may take some getting used to at first if you are new to firmer mattresses like myself. The memory foam layers adjust to your sleep position, which makes falling asleep easy.
How well did you sleep? I’ve never slept better. While my previous mattress was on the firmer side, it was not a memory foam or very cool mattress. With the Cocoon Chill Memory Foam mattress, I do not wake up in the middle of the night like I used to, tossing and turning. I also stay sleeping at a comfortable temperature throughout the night.
If you could change anything about the mattress what would it be? I’m not sure that I would change anything about this mattress. It is exactly what I was looking for.
How does this mattress compare to other mattresses you’ve slept on? I can really tell the difference in my sleep and I wake up feeling refreshed and energized. I used to wake up in the middle of the night and would have so much trouble falling back asleep. With this mattress I wake up significantly less in the middle of the night, and if I do I never have trouble falling back asleep. It really has made sleeping easy!
Does the Cocoon by Sealy offer any specific luxury details? This mattress is not only defined by its cooling cover, but it also has four layers of memory foam designed to mold to your body for ultimate comfort.
What bed frames does this mattress pair best with? As a more comfy, plush option, we recommend an upholstered bed frame for this mattress. Anything from boucle to linen fabrics can add a serene and inviting feel to a space.
Best for Back Pain
Upsides
- Pressure-relieving for those seeking extra support and comfort, especially for sleepers with lower back pain
- Supportive, hybrid design that’s reminiscent of a hotel bed
- Quick mattress inflation allows for easy installation upon delivery
Downsides
Light chemical smell upon unpacking
Who It’s Best For
- Couples who need motion isolation without limiting comfort
- Sleepers who crave target support for back pain
Specs
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Layers: Six layers: Luxury memory foam for pressure point relief, copper gel memory foam, wrapped coils for support throughout
- Firmness: Medium
- Height: 13.5 inches
- Weight: 115 pounds
- Warranty: Free shipping and returns, 15-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial
Mattress tester: Gaby Ulloa, contributor
How did the delivery go? As simple as it gets! The box was delivered right to my front door. That said, this particular Helix mattress is two inches thicker than their standard model. And while it’s definitely an added bonus, it made moving the box around and rolling the mattress out a bit tougher. Pro tip: Make this a two-person project.
What was the setup like? After my friend and I managed to get the mattress out of the box, I removed the plastic wrap carefully (making sure to not cut into the mattress) and then watched in awe at how quickly it expanded into its full shape. I noticed a slight chemical smell and decided to stay the night elsewhere. Full disclosure: This was more due to the fact that I still had one night left in my old apartment before I had to turn in the keys rather than the smell itself, which faded fairly quickly.
How firm is the mattress? It’s marketed as a medium firmness mattress, and I definitely agree. It provides the perfect “not too soft, not too firm” situation and allows me to sink into a deep night’s sleep while still feeling completely supported. The real test, though, was when my six-foot-nine partner spent the night. I never once felt him move around and he, too, agreed the support was ideal.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 9.5! I really do love this mattress, but I’m holding out that 0.5 for a mattress I once slept on but truly cannot afford….
How well did you sleep? Honestly so well. Normally whenever I sleep on a new mattress (or even my mattress back at my mom’s house, which I am very familiar with), I usually wake up with some sort of back pain. That never happened with the Midnight Luxe. I wake up feeling refreshed and well-rested each day.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Absolutely! No doubt about it.
Does the Helix offer any specific luxury details? The pillow top cover is a particular detail worth mentioning, as it offers an extra plush layer without compromising the hybrid support underneath.
What bed frames does this mattress pair best with? This bed must be paired with a modern or platform foundation, as old-style box springs are not recommended. With this in mind, we recommend an upholstered platform bed or storage bed with supportive slats to keep it in its best condition.
Best With Multiple Firmness Options
Upsides
- Lengthy sleep trial
- Breathable design to help sleepers rest cool
- Soft and supportive design
Downsides
The brand doesn’t ship internationally
Who It’s Best For
- Shoppers looking for a mattress with multiple firmness levels
- Those looking for a lengthy sleep trial and lifetime warranty
Specs
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Layers: 100% natural tencel cover, gel-infused Euro-pillow top, pocketed coils
- Firmness: Luxury firm
- Height: 13.5 inches
- Weight: 135 pounds
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty, 120-day sleep trial
Mattress tester: Mark Burka, contributor
How did the delivery go? The bed-in-a-box delivery was free, and the mattress arrived compressed and sealed in a box in about a week.
How firm is the mattress? Because these are only available to purchase online, I really appreciate the customer journey WinkBed takes you through, comparing Soft to Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus. The WinkBed mattress technology provides strong edge support and wicks away heat, ensuring sleepers have a calm, peaceful night.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 10. The mattress is a more affordable hybrid option compared to others on the market, plus, for those who are hesitant about purchasing an online mattress, WinkBed provides a 120-day warranty—that’s a six-month sleep trial period!—which is plenty of time to decide if the money was well spent (in my case, it was!).
How well did you sleep? When looking for the right mattress, my partner and I knew we wanted a firm, luxurious model with a firmer pillow top. After hunting down mattresses for a few months, we came across the WinkBed, the seemingly perfect balance between firm and soft due to its hybrid components, plus it offered detailed insights on which mattress is best for each type of sleeper.
If you could change anything about the mattress what would it be? I would pick the Plus mattress “for heavier people” with the firmest option, now available since I last purchased from WinkBed, knowing the pillow top was going to be as comfy as it is. My partner and I are a same-sex, male-identifying couple and probably would not like to admit that we classify as “heavier people,” but in this case, we do.
How does this mattress compare to other mattresses you’ve slept on?
The mattress’s hybrid components truly give you the best of both worlds (supportive coils and soft foam) at a more affordable price than other mattresses I’ve slept on.
Does the Winkbed mattress offer any specific luxury details? The multiple firmness options are the most notable luxury details, including plush pillow top offering.
What bed frames does this mattress pair best with? Because of the durable, hybrid construction, we think this mattress would work well with any solid frame, perhaps a metal frame to complement its sturdy build.
How We Tested Each Mattress-in-a-Box
As experts in the sleep category, Architectural Digest editors research and test the most sought-after mattresses in the market on a rolling basis to determine the best of the best.
We’ve identified some of the buzziest mattress-in-a-box options available that offer easy setup and a cozy feel by spending hours assessing the luxe bells and whistles of each product. Each tester spends at least a month on the new mattress—coming in over 2,500 hours with an eight-hour sleep schedule in mind for all of the picks in this story—taking notes and catching z’s.
These are the factors we look for when testing a mattress-in-a-box:
- Firmness: Testers noted how plush or stiff the mattress felt after consistent sleep on the mattresses, from a boxed memory foam to a hybrid bed. We explain the difference between the two further down this story.
- Comfort: Our team members rated their overall comfort, including elements like pressure relief and support, for their sleep position over the course of their time sleeping on the mattress.
- Sleep quality: Each tester gave their review on how easily they were able to nod off—and stay asleep—at night, including considerations like motion transfer from a partner and bodily aches like pre-existing back pain.
- Ease of delivery: To ensure your mattress makes it to your doorstep smoothly, we explained our detailed experiences with shipment and the process of moving the mattress inside our homes.
- Temperature regulation: Reviewers noted how well they were able to stay comfortable during sleep based on cooling features and the overall breathability of the mattress materials.
- Height and weight: Mattresses-in-a-box typically range from 10 to 15 inches and average about 100 pounds. This information can help you decide on how well it’ll fit in your space and if you’ll need a hand moving it.
- Ease of setup: We detail the unboxing process, notably how easy or difficult it was to unwrap and how long it took for the mattress to fully inflate.
- Edge support: Testers share how secure they felt the sides of the bed were and if they felt like they’d slide off.
- Overall value: We also mention factors like the warranty and sleep trial to help inform all you get with the price of your mattress.
FAQs
What Are the Upsides of a Mattress-in-a-Box?
While a boxed mattress and traditional mattress virtually look the same once they’re set up on a bed, a mattress-in-a-box ships much more conveniently in a compressed format and compact packaging. Simply order one online and it can be shipped right to your front door. Many mattress brands even offer white-glove delivery so you can have it unboxed and set up in your bedroom.
Most mattresses-in-a-box are made of foam or a foam-coil combo (think: latex, memory foam, or a foam blend with encased steel coils for added support). From a twin- to king-size bed, these material types allow the mattress to compress in a small box and inflate upon unboxing to its full size.
What Are the Downsides of a Mattress-in-a-Box?
A bed-in-a-box may not be the right choice for everyone. It’s first important to determine the type of compressed mattress you’d like to explore (we’ve denoted which on our list are memory foam and which are hybrid designs).
A fully memory foam mattress may not be the best option for sleepers who trap more body heat, those who weigh more, or any one who is in search of excellent edge support (foam mattresses also tend to degrade faster than spring-coil designs). Very firm hybrid mattresses may not be the best options for those looking for a more plush surface, like side sleepers.
While a boxed mattress is convenient for ground-level living residents, they pose a more difficult setup situation for prospective buyers who live in spaces with lots of stairs (especially if white-glove delivery isn’t available). Luckily we also have lots of recommendations for more traditional mattress brands if you decide that’s the best route to take.
How Do I Unbox My Mattress-in-a-Box?
The easiest way to handle unboxing is to move the box to the room you’re going to keep the mattress and unbox it there. (That way, you’re transporting a much more manageable box, rather than the uncompressed formed mattress.) Once you’ve got the box in the room, remove the box. Inside, you’ll find a rolled-up, compressed mattress that’s been vacuum-sealed. Carefully remove the wrap and it will immediately begin to decompress and swell to it’s full size. It’s a bit magical to watch it swell, honestly. Fully decompressing can take up to 48 hours, but it will be “mattress size” within a few hours.
How Much Should I Spend on a Mattress-in-a-Box?
We want to stress something important: You can’t judge a mattress by its price tag. Typically boxed mattresses range from about $500 to $3,500, but a higher mattress price doesn’t necessarily mean it’s better quality. The best mattress-in-a-box for you has more to do with your body, sleeping position, tendency to run cool or hot, and other factors, not price. This is key to keep in mind when shopping for a mattress online, especially since online mattresses tend to be less expensive (which doesn’t mean they’re not high-quality). Online mattress stores are often able to offer their products at lower prices because they don’t have the same overhead costs as a traditional showroom.
Do I Need a Box Spring for My Mattress-in-a-Box?
In short, no. It’s best to simply set up your boxed mattress on a hard and flat bed foundation. The use of an old box spring can cause mattress sagging and shorten the lifespan of your mattress, which some manufacturers note can reach up to 10 years.
What Is a Memory Foam Mattress?
Memory foam mattresses contour to the sleeper’s body. They’re hefty, high-density, heavy mattresses. The heavier the weight of a mattress, the greater the density—and the greater the density, the longer it tends to last without starting to sink or sag. Memory foam can be ideal for side sleepers, as well as people who suffer from joint pain; memory foam offers solid pressure relief, so you might want to make sure that any mattress you purchase has at least a layer or two of it. Memory foam can also work well for couples, since it minimizes motion transfer (especially if one of you tends to toss and turn at night). If you like a bed you can literally sink into, you might love a memory foam mattress.
What Is a Hybrid Mattress?
A hybrid mattress can contain multiple layers of different materials, including memory foam, polyfoam, cooling gel, and/or latex—some hybrid mattresses even have a pillow top layer for extra cushioning on top. In addition to these layers, hybrid mattresses also contain springs for added support, durability, and breathability. The superior breathability makes a hybrid mattress great for people who tend to get hot at night. Rather than the sinkage you get with a memory foam mattress, you’ll feel like you’re resting firmly on top of it. Hybrid mattresses also tend to offer more edge support.
How Do I Get Rid of My Old Mattress?
A lot of online mattress companies have their own mattress removal services—but there are still plenty of ways you can get rid of your old mattress yourself. You can drop it off at a mattress recycling center. You can also have LoadUp come and remove your mattress (along with any other bulky items you might have) for a fee. And there’s always another very easy option: Let your family and friends know that you’re getting rid of your mattress. There’s a very good chance one of them will be willing to take it off your hands and give it a second life.
How Long Does a Mattress-in-a-Box Last?
Many leading manufacturers note that mattresses-in-a-box should last around 10 years—if not longer. Since they have softer materials like foam rather than traditional innerspring coils, the wear can vary. However, one of the best ways to preserve a mattress is by using a mattress topper or mattress pad to keep it free of stains and give it an extra layer of comfort.
What to Consider When Shopping for a Bed-in-a-Box
- Sleep Position: Out of the mattresses we’ve outlined, the type you choose (foam or hybrid) is largely dependent on your sleep position:
- Side sleepers: The best mattresses for side sleepers are usually medium-soft foam or hybrid beds since they give just the right amount of support and comfort, especially in the shoulder and neck areas.
- Back sleepers: If you crave spinal support as you snooze, a medium-firm or firm mattress would be your best bet. Either of these can give you the structured setup you need to cradle your joints.
- Stomach sleepers: Stomach sleepers also likely need a firm bed because it can help keep the spine in alignment.
- Combination sleepers: Medium-firm mattresses are a solid option for combination sleepers since these sleepers can sleep in nearly any position, and this bed allows for enough support and comfort to accommodate them all.
- Warranty: Since mattresses are already a big-ticket purchase, keep an eye out for brands that offer a lengthy warranty (around the 10-year ballpark). This can help ensure that if the mattress doesn’t last, you can get a replacement. Many leading brands in our list even offer lifetime warranties to ensure you are truly getting your money’s worth.
- Certifications: Eco-friendly certifications are a great way to tell if your bed is made of less harmful materials. For example, the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Environmental Working Group’s (EWG), and UL/GREENGUARD certifications all note that the mattress is made with earth-friendly textiles (like organic wool and latex) and is free of toxic chemicals.
- Off-Gassing: Because mattresses-in-a-box are vacuum sealed and have to be inflated after unboxing, a common result is off-gassing which is a chemical smell that can fill the air as the mattress reaches its full size. Usually it lasts for a few hours or a few days. While organic mattresses typically don’t emit as many odors based on their sustainable build, there can still be a slight smell released from the natural substances.
Build the Ultimate Bedscape With AD
Pillows, bed frames, comforters, duvet covers, sheets, and more—we've put all the best bedding and furniture to the test so you don't have to:
- Best Pillows, Tested and Reviewed: Upgrade your sleep setup with our top picks from Casper, Brooklinen, Purple, Brooklyn Bedding, and more.
- Best Duvet Inserts and Comforters , Tested and Reviewed: Here to give you the lowdown (and down alternative).
- Best Duvet Covers, Tested and Reviewed: We tapped interior designers to weigh in on this versatile bed cover.
- Best Quilts and Coverlets, Tested and Reviewed by AD: From channeled and reversible cotton to easy, breezy linen, here are some of the best light layers to keep you cozy regardless of the season.
- Best Bed Sheets, Tested and Reviewed: From linen to percale, sateen and silk—we’ve never been more excited to lie down.
- Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers, Tested and Reviewed: Pressure relief, temperature regulation, and more, we tested the best offerings for side and combination sleepers.
- Best Bed Frames on Amazon: Support your mattress and elevate your bedroom with our top picks.
- Best Sleeper Sofas, Tested and Reviewed by AD Editors: No guest room, no problem—these two-in-one staples turn any living space into an impromptu bedroom.
- Best Sheets on Amazon: Treat yourself to an easy bedding refresh.
- Best Pillows for Side Sleepers: Including recommendations from TikTok’s favorite doctors, Amazon reviewers, and AD staffers.
