
How long does a mattress last?
While the life span of a bed depends on a few factors (namely the materials, design, and your upkeep) a quality mattress should last you between seven and 10 years–a fact alone that puts cost into perspective.
A mattress made with quality materials will likely give you more mileage, so that’s something to consider when looking at the price tag. Hybrid beds that use supportive coils and reinforced edges will hold up better than most all-foam mattresses–although latex foam is super durable and will typically last longer than memory foam.
Experts say you can extend the life span of your mattress by deep cleaning it twice a year, using a protective mattress cover, and following the manufacturer’s guidance for rotating the bed. When it is time to say goodbye, we suggest recycling your old mattress–you’ll just need to do a little research to find out whether there’s a recycling program nearby (or find a mattress brand that will do it for you).
Below, we’ve compiled a pricing guide to be referenced in our mattress reviews and roundups, along with a breakdown of average costs based on mattresses we’ve previously tested or reviewed. This is not an all-inclusive list, and most brands often offer discounts that help lower these prices.
Our mattress pricing guide:
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King mattresses
This might be obvious, but king-size mattresses are more expensive because they require more materials. They measure 76 by 80 inches and are a great choice for couples. You can also create your own split king model by purchasing two Twin XL mattresses, which may save you some cash, depending on the beds you pick.
Average cost by material
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Queen mattresses
Queen mattresses are a size down from king mattresses and are another great pick for partners or anyone who shares their bed with a pet. They measure 60 by 80 inches.
Average cost by material
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Full mattresses
While two people can certainly share a full mattress, it’ll be a little tight depending on your body sizes and sleep styles. These mattresses measure 52 by 75 inches. Opting for a hybrid model with solid edge support helps you get the most out of your mattress’ surface area.
Average cost by material
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Twin mattresses
The smallest of them all, twin mattresses measure in at 38 by 75 inches, making them best for solo sleepers and kids. You’ll also see twin XL mattresses on the market, which measure 38 by 80 inches and are often used for dorm rooms.
Average cost by material
What we look for in a mattress.
Because we try to prioritize sustainable and nontoxic materials, our criteria for mattresses may be more selective than you’ll find elsewhere. We compiled a list of the most important mattress certifications, as well as a comprehensive guide to shopping for nontoxic mattresses. To keep it short, here’s a quick look at a few qualities we look for in a bed:
Certifications
Greener materials
You’ve come to mindbodygreen, so we know you care about the materials you bring into your home, as well as their environmental impact. Here’s a rundown of the various nontoxic mattress materials:
Additional sustainability efforts
Whenever possible, we prioritize brands that take extra steps to care for Mother Earth. Latex foam is specifically great for this. A few brand leaders in the space are:
FAQ
How often do you need a new mattress?
A quality mattress lasts between seven 10 years. It’s important to choose a mattress that’s made from quality materials (look for those certifications!), and equally critical that you follow the manufacturer’s guidance when it comes to rotating your mattress. Using a protective cover and cleaning your mattress twice a year can help extend its life.
What type of mattress is cheapest?
All-foam mattresses are typically the cheapest, as they don’t require as many materials to produce. Just make sure you’re not overlooking important qualities like edge support or nontoxic certifications.
Why are mattresses in a box cheaper?
Most companies that sell bed-in-a-box mattresses cut out the middleman by selling beds directly to consumers online. This means the brand doesn’t need to pay a third party to sell their mattress in a showroom, so it can offer products at a lower price.
The takeaway.
The sticker shock of a mattress can cause a double-take. Still, a new mattress is an extremely important purchase decision. You can certainly find a well-made mattress that meets your high standards without breaking your bank account. Determine your priorities, preferred sleep style, and mattress type–and try to think of your new mattress as an investment in your well-being. After all, your health is wealth!