The best cheap mattresses FAQs:

Our buying guide covers everything from the type of cheap mattresses available – whether pocket-sprung, memory foam, or hybrid – to firmness levels, taking in what’s best for those who suffer from back pain, to mattress size, and advice on how often you should replace your mattress.

Is it worth buying a cheap mattress? The verdict:

It’s important to consider that you spend about a third of your life in bed. While it might be tempting to go for a cheaper option, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. A cheaper mattress might seem like a good deal upfront, but it could lack the durability, support, and comfort you need for a good night’s sleep. Poor-quality mattresses can lead to discomfort, restless nights, and even long-term health issues like back pain.

However, not all affordable mattresses are bad – far from it! If you’re on a budget, look for mattresses that offer good value — those that use decent materials, have positive customer reviews, and come with a reasonable warranty. You can, in fact, find budget-friendly options with a tantalising price point that provide adequate support and comfort, especially if you’re using it temporarily or for a guest room.

Are expensive mattresses better?

When it comes to mattress buying, the old adage ‘you get what you pay for’ often rings true, but it’s not always that simple. Some of the best hybrid mattresses tend to be made from high-quality materials, such as advanced memory foam, latex, or pocket springs, which can provide better support, durability, and comfort over time. They often come with extra features like cooling technologies, luxurious fabrics, and longer warranties, all of which can enhance your overall sleep experience.

But a higher price doesn’t automatically guarantee a better mattress for everyone. What matters most is finding a mattress that suits your specific needs — whether that’s firm support, pressure relief, or temperature regulation. An expensive mattress might offer a premium experience, but if it doesn’t align with your sleep preferences, it might not be worth the investment.

What is the best mattress support type?

Whether it’s memory foam or 1,000 springs helping you get your beauty sleep, Silentnight’s sleep expert, Hannah Shore says the first thing to look at is the type of support you need in your budget mattress.

“The support will usually come from the spring unit (or high-density foam) that is in the mattress,” Hannah said. “Look for how the springs are made up: a pocket spring will give you a more tailored support layer, however a continuous coil may offer you the right level of support for your body type and are often cheaper. The bigger your frame, the firmer your supportive layer needs to be.”

What is the difference between memory foam, spring and hybrid mattresses?

It can get confusing when shopping for cheap mattresses, so you need to know what type of mattress is best. How does memory foam support you? What even is a hybrid?

Memory foam is a layer of foam that moulds with your body shape, helping to distribute your body weight, while responding to your body temperature. “The benefits of memory foam are that it is very durable so easy to care for as it won’t need turning as often, and it also offers great pressure relief”, says Hannah.

Most spring-based beds today are supported by pocket springs – small wire springs, surrounded by fabric, which help to support and create the bounce in a mattress. And you’ve guessed it – a Hybrid mattress is when these two forms of support are mashed together to allow for the benefits of both.