Best mattress in a box 2022 cheap

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, answering questions from how to choose the right mattress type for you to how to clean it and what to put it on. We’ve even philosophized about Amazon’s best-selling mattress and accessorized our dream sleep setup. You can see the full results of our long-standing obsession in our Guide to Good Sleep, but the ultimate conclusion of our collective efforts is this: There is no such thing as a “one size fits all” mattress.

This is primarily because there is no such thing as a single type of mattress customer. Are you a hot sleeper? A stomach sleeper? A tosser-and-turner? There are so many sleeping positions, sleep styles, and body types—and all of them factor into the kind of mattress that will feel good to you. 

But even if you’re able to conclude that, say, you’re a back sleeper, lover of memory foam mattresses, and in need of a serious firmness level, the right purchase may not be obvious—there are way too many direct-to-consumer mattress companies to choose from for that kind of clarity. Given that a high-quality mattress can cost over $1,000 and should last you a decade or more, this is an investment you definitely want to get right.

That’s where we come in. We sleep-tested leading online mattresses so we could provide clarity and insight into which bed-in-a-box might be right for you.

How We Reviewed the Mattresses

Editors at Clever, along with some trusted colleagues at Architectural Digest, identified some of the buzziest beds-in-a-box available and spent hours assessing the luxe bells and whistles of each product. Then, each tester claimed the mattress they were most interested in sampling to see how it measured up IRL. Most of us spent at least a week on our new mattress, taking notes and catching z’s. (Sleeping for work? It could definitely be worse.)

Each review notes key factors including:

• Firmness and comfort of the mattress
• Quality of sleep we had on it
• Smoothness of the delivery
• Ease of setup and impressions right out of the box
• Value for the price (and the warranty and sleep trial associated with each mattress)

Full disclosure: Most of the companies sent us their mattresses to review for free, but we did take price into account when contemplating whether or not we’d recommend a mattress-in-a-box to someone else. Our reviewers considered everything from delivery process to comfort level, and then we compiled our mattress reviews in one place. 

Here is the complete list of the mattresses we reviewed. Click through if you’d like to jump straight to a specific mattress:

1. Allswell The Brick
2. DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid Mattress
3. The Propel Hybrid by Brooklyn Bedding
4. Purple Hybrid Premier 3
5. Purple Hybrid Premier 4
6. Nest Bedding Sparrow Signature Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress
7. Layla Hybrid Mattress
8. Cocoon Chill Memory Foam Mattress
9. Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
10. Amerisleep AS3 Mattress
11. Happsy Organic Mattress
12. The Coddle Mattress
13. Leesa Hybrid Mattress
14. The Lull Mattress
15. Casper Nova Hybrid
16. The Mattress by Parachute
17. Mint Mattress by Tuft & Needle
18. Avocado Green Mattress
19. Helix Midnight Luxe
20. The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
21. Original Mattress by Casper
22. My Green Mattress Natural Escape
23. New Airweave Advanced Mattress

Please note that all prices are for queen-size bed-in-a-box mattresses. Check retailers for additional price and size information. All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

1. Allswell The Brick

Allswell The Brick Mattress

$699 $559 at Allswell

Allswell’s The Brick is a medium-firm mattress designed to provide cooling support while promoting motion isolation. Inside, you’ll find individually wrapped coils, copper-infused memory foam, two inches of high-density foam, and a firmer top layer. It’s made of wool, cotton, certified latex, and pocketed springs. Free shipping and returns, 20-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial. 

Mattress tester: Digital director David Kaufman 

How did the delivery go? The mattress arrived (in a surprisingly tall box) within days of ordering, which is a plus for anyone who needs a mattress in a hurry. 

What was the setup like? Unboxing was simple enough, and we let it air out and expand for the day (though we could have easily used it sooner).

How firm is the mattress? The mattress is very firm. I felt supported whether sleeping on my stomach, back, or side. I didn’t experience sagging or sinking in any position, but rather, buoyancy and comfort.

How well did you sleep? Amazingly, which is saying something because I don’t sleep well in general. 

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 10.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes, without hesitation.

(If you want to read more about David’s experience with the Brick mattress, he shares more about his experience here.) 

2. DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid Mattress

Image courtesy of DreamCloud

DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid Mattress

$1,798 $899 at DreamCloud

Made of eight layers: five various types of memory foam for contouring cushion, one of natural latex for bounce, one of foam-encased pocketed micro coils for support, and a hand-tufted cashmere blend cover. 365-night sleep trial, lifetime warranty, and free shipping and returns.

Mattress tester: Market editor Madeline O’Malley

How did the delivery go? The delivery process was very standard. The Dreamcloud mattress arrived quickly, which was great. But it was no different from any other package in that it was left with my doorman, who carried it up to my apartment.

What was the setup like? I was assembling a bed frame at the same time I was setting up my mattress, so I had already hired a Task Rabbit [handyman] to assemble the frame. He kindly unboxed my mattress as well. It was very heavy, so I definitely would’ve needed help had I done it on my own.

How firm is the mattress? The mattress is a great middle ground between firm and soft. I don’t sink in much, but it’s also quite squishy. My body doesn’t leave an imprint when I get up; the mattress springs back to its shape immediately.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I would say this mattress is an 8. I sleep really well on it, and I’m also able to work on my laptop in bed without everything moving around. It serves my purposes well, but it isn’t the most indulgent sleep I’ve ever had either. I typically love a really squishy, sink-in mattress, and this is definitely not that.

How well did you sleep? I slept very well! I’m usually extremely tired by the time I get home, so it always feels luxurious to get into bed each night.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes! It’s a high-quality mattress that feels more expensive than it is. There’s a body and girth to it that I haven’t found in previous mattresses I’ve owned. I think it’s a great value.

3. The Propel Hybrid by Brooklyn Bedding

The Propel Hybrid by Brooklyn Bedding

$1,999 $1,399 at Propel

Made from Upcycle™, a revolutionary textile technology that utilizes a proprietary surface treatment of encapsulated minerals to absorb body heat. Far Infrared Rays stimulate local blood flow without increasing blood pressure, penetrating deeper into the skin and helping to promote a more restorative night’s sleep. As an elite hybrid mattress, the Propel also delivers responsive contouring with the exceptional temperature moderation of TitanCool™ and copper-infused foam for added airflow and superior antimicrobial benefits. 20-night risk-free sleep trial and 10-year warranty. Free ground shipping nationwide.

Mattress tester: Digital executive director Keith Pollock

How did the delivery go? No hiccups at all. Arrived in a box at my apartment door, on time.

What was the setup like? It was simple—I was able to unbox the mattress easily by myself, and set it up on my bed frame. The mattress felt light and easy to maneuver.

How firm is the mattress? The Propel mattress is firm but also soft, with a layer of foam that has responsive contouring. But really, the benefit this mattress offers is its textile technologies, which claim to create a better overall sleep experience by ensuring a sleep temperature of 88 degrees. I can’t quite confirm that this is happening…maybe it is? But I will say the bed is quite comfortable. The description of the mattress online sounds scientific and also a bit mystical, so I was intrigued to try it.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I would give it an 8.

How well did you sleep? It is extremely comfortable and I was able to adjust to it instantly.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes, I would recommend it. The price is good, and I have been sleeping very well.

4. Purple Hybrid Premier 3

Purple Hybrid Premier

$2,999 $2,699 at Purple

This Purple mattress is another one of our top picks. The nontoxic, hypoallergenic mattress is made of a 3-inch top layer called the GelFlex Grid. The GelFlex Grid is designed to be simultaneously soft and firm. It's supportive, but is designed to flex around your pressure points. In other words, it's soft where you want it and firm where you need it. It conforms to your body shape faster than memory foam. Beneath the GelFlex Grid, there is a responsive coil core offering additional support. 100-night sleep trial, 10-year warranty, and free shipping and returns.

Mattress tester: Editorial operations director Diane Dragan

How did the delivery go? The delivery process was easy, although it took a while between order and delivery. That may have been because it was booked through a special circumstance (this story), instead of as a regular customer through regular channels.

What was the setup like? Setup was really easy. The mattress came compressed in a big box, and the delivery guy was fast, cheerful, and worked with my husband to transact quickly.

How firm is the mattress? Thanks to the Smart Comfort Grid layer, it has a more sink-into-it, waterbed feel, but without that super-jiggly water sensation. It’s not firm at all, which is a switch from my previous mattresses. We chose what I called “the Goldilocks top,” which is a medium-firmness topper, based on my going in person to a mattress store and testing it out. (For what it’s worth, the store salesperson said Purple is really popular.) So far, no imprints are left behind when I get up. What’s interesting and great is that your whole body does feel more cradled and supported—your legs have their own “cushion,” for example, not just your torso. For someone who walks over three miles a day around New York City, it was a real treat.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? A 7 or 8.

How well did you sleep? I slept as well as I usually do—I’m a light sleeper and wake constantly in the night. But the bed, softer than I’m used to, may just take a little bit of time to get adjusted to.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? I would. Even though I thought I was Team Firm Mattress for life, Purple may be my new fave with its body adjustability combined with springs underneath.

5. Purple Hybrid Premier 4

Purple Hybrid Premier 4

$3,799 $3,499 at Purple

This Purple Hybrid Premier 4 is called the “4” because it features a premium 4-inch version of the GelFlex Grid. 100-night sleep trial, 10-year warranty, and free shipping and returns. 

Mattress tester: Contributor Shoko Wanger

How did the delivery go? My experience with Purple was 100% positive, and I never felt like I was left hanging or in the dark. When the delivery day rolled around, the mattress was brought to our front door in a long vinyl tube, and my husband and I dragged it up the stairs together. It was heavy, but the tube had handles attached to each end that made the job easier.

What was the setup like? The mattress comes with a little paper card explaining the best way to unfurl it, which eased any concerns I had about un-packaging a heavy item the wrong way. I cut the vinyl tube open, removed the plastic wrap, and pulled the mattress onto our bed frame. I was surprised, given the heaviness of the mattress in the tube, that I was able to do this relatively easily without help. It took a few minutes for it to settle, but then it was good to go.

How firm is the mattress? Not firm at all, but it is a really surprising and effective blend of soft and supportive. In fact, the first time I sat on it, I was shocked at how squishy it felt. My toddler son even hopped on with me and immediately said, “Bouncy!” But then, when I lay down, I was surprised again—I wasn’t sinking into it the way I expected I would; instead, I felt buoyant.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I would give it an 8. The very unique feel of it does take some getting used to (that softness is due to something called a GelFlex Grid, and when you lie down, you really do feel both the stretchy gel texture and the grid)—but it’s definitely comfortable. I’m normally partial to a firmer bed, but that aforementioned combo of cushiness and support is almost addictive.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes! I would recommend it most highly to someone who prefers a softer mattress and who sleeps hot.

6. Nest Bedding Sparrow Signature Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress

Nest Bedding Sparrow Signature Hybrid Mattress

$2,132 $1,599 at Nest Bedding

This American-made pillow-top mattress contains coils and a quilted gel memory foam layer. You can choose the firmness level of your foam layer, and you can switch it out for a different layer down the road should your sleep preferences change. Additionally, if you order a king or California king mattress, you can customize the firmness on each side of the bed. Nest offers free shipping and returns, lifetime warranty, and a 365-night sleep trial.

Mattress Tester: Contributor Briana Feigon

How did the delivery and setup go?

Easy peasy. The mattress arrived at our doorstep in a big box and my fiancé helped hold the box up while I cut it open. The mattress was sealed airtight in a large, thick plastic wrap, so I sliced it open and the two of us dragged the mattress to the desired location in our room and let it grow to its full size! Don’t get me wrong, it is not light, and I would definitely say it was a job for two, but we were snuggled on our new mattress in less than…30 minutes? Including making the bed! Just the fact that you can pick out a mattress online and sleep on it days later is pretty mind-blowing to me.

How firm is the mattress?

Firm. My bed is my favorite place in the world, and it’s not uncommon to witness me spending an entire afternoon under the covers with a stack of books, chatting on the phone with a girlfriend, or eating a grilled cheese sandwich. I like a firm mattress because it feels nice to be on, both when I’m asleep and also when I’m awake and doing things in bed. What I really like about the Sparrow is that it is firm while still being cozy and plush.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 11. I am in heaven. When a mattress is too soft, I wake up with lower back pain, and this Nest mattress is so incredibly comfortable, I really couldn’t recommend it enough! Since this was an upgrade from a queen, it took us a few weeks to find the perfect bed frame to put it on. I was worried that having the mattress on the ground for the first couple of weeks might impact it’s comfort level…Not at all. It’s been equally comfortable both on the ground and once we found a great bed frame to put it on.

How well did you sleep? Superb. Like a sloth.

If you share the mattress with any other sleepers, can you speak to motion transfer? I have to say, I basically forget that my fiancé Henry is in bed with me. Honestly, the biggest drawback to having a king-sized mattress is that we never cuddle anymore in bed. I joke with him that I need a loudspeaker to talk to him from one side of the bed to the other.

I haven’t noticed any motion transfer. I tend to precariously balance an open book on a pillow in front of me, while holding a mug of hot tea. Even if Henry plops into bed, I have yet to experience any tea spillage!

If you could change anything about the mattress what would it be? I do notice sometimes that I wake up quite hot in the middle of the night. I can’t say for sure if this has to do with the mattress, it could very well be my blankets or simply our house, but that’s the one thing that comes to mind.

How does this mattress compare to other mattresses you've slept on? It’s awesome. I will absolutely be keeping this mattress for years to come. Henry and I are both thrilled with it. It’s also nice to know, if you’re looking for a mattress to share with a partner, that you can choose the firmness options for each side of a Nest (in king or California king sizes). I was worried that Henry would want a firmer mattress, and if that had been the case, we could have customized each of our bed sides to fit our firmness preference.

7. Layla Hybrid Mattress

Layla Hybrid Mattress

$1,699 $1,499 at Layla

$1,699 at Walmart

This hybrid pick features infused memory foam and an individually wrapped coil system that provides ample support. The flippable mattress has a soft side and a firm side, so you can tailor the sleeping experience to your needs. Layla offers free shipping and returns, 10-year warranty, 120-night sleep trial.

Mattress Tester: Contributor Cheryl Dearborne

How did the delivery and setup go? The delivery was faster than I expected and the setup was easy. I did need help carrying it up the stairs–it’s very heavy, but it is a mattress after all. The mattress inflated quickly, it didn’t have a strong smell out of the box, and I slept fine the first night.

How firm is the mattress? I used the firm side of the mattress, and it supported me properly while still providing a soft cradle. 

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 10

How well did you sleep? I am currently sleeping better than I ever have before. My sleep is more regulated.

If you share the mattress with any other sleepers, can you speak to motion transfer? I haven’t shared the mattress as of yet, but it seems like it would be good with motion transfer because of the foam, it is a very sturdy mattress.

If you could change anything about the mattress what would it be? I like the mattress and wouldn’t change it. It came with two pillows I don’t care for, as I need a firm foam pillow that cradles my neck properly.

How does this mattress compare to other mattresses you've slept on? This is my favorite mattress yet. I have slept on mattress brands including Casper, Purple, and Tuft & Needle, but, for me, this tops them all (though the Tuft and Needle came close).

8. Cocoon Chill Memory Foam Mattress

Cocoon Chill Memory Foam Mattress

$1,239 $799 at Cocoon by Sealy

This cooling, all-foam mattress features a stretch-knit cover designed to absorb and dissipate heat. Shipping and returns are free, and the mattress comes with a 10-year warranty and a 100-night sleep trial. In addition to a generous return policy, warranty, and trial period, Sealy throws in two free pillows and a set of sheets for free.

Mattress Tester: VP of programming and development Cade Hiser

How did the delivery and setup go? The delivery was super simple 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!

9. Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress

Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress

$2,299 $1,599 at Nolah

This hybrid mattress offers the best of both worlds: You get the support and stabilization of an innerspring mattress and the comfort of seven layers of pressure-relieving foam. Nolah offers a 120-night sleep trial, a lifetime warranty, and free shipping and returns.

Mattress Tester: Commerce editor Audrey Lee

How did the delivery and set up go? Nolah’s a bed-in-a-box brand, obviously, which makes delivery a breeze. My mattress arrived compressed in a tall box that was waiting on my doorstep once I arrived home from running errands one day. Unless you’re very strong, I would suggest having help to bring the box into your home, especially if stairs are involved, as the box weighs about 80-90 pounds.

Set up involved releasing the compressed bed from its cardboard box, onto my bed frame, and cutting through the many layers of tightly-wrapped plastic to let it unfurl and expand to its full size. The whole process took under 10 minutes, though Nolah suggests waiting a full 24 hours for your mattress to reach peak firmness.

How firm is the mattress? I chose the “luxury firm” option, though there are options for a more plush and an even firmer feel. I found this was the perfect choice for me and would recommend it to most people who find themselves somewhere in the middle of plush and firm.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? This mattress gets a very enthusiastic 10 from me!

How well did you sleep? Falling asleep in this bed feels like a treat, especially after a long day. In the past, I’ve experienced adjustment periods where my body needs time to get used to a mattress, but not with Nolah, which let me get a full night of luxurious sleep from the get-go.

If you could change anything about it, what would it be? I honestly wouldn’t change a thing.

How does this mattress compare to other mattresses you've slept on? There’s so much to love about this mattress. In the past, my mattress preferences have leaned more towards soft than firm but Nolah’s “luxury firm” Evolution mattress has me second-guessing myself. The first time I flopped onto the bed, I immediately felt like every element in the mattress was working together to provide the perfect balance of comfort and support. This is mainly thanks to the substantial seven-layer construction which includes a layer of individually-wrapped coils, breathable Airfoam, and a plush pillow top cover that cradles your body in a particularly soothing way. I would buy this mattress again in a heartbeat. If you’re a side sleeper like me, run, don’t walk.

10. Helix Midnight Luxe

Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress

$2,099 $1,799 at Helix

With pressure point relief and luxury memory foam, the Helix Midnight Luxe is ideal for side sleepers. It’s Helix’s most popular mattress, featuring zoned lumbar support, enhanced contouring, a premium pillow top, and a breathable Tencel cover that will keep hot sleepers cool. Free shipping and returns, 15-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial. 

Mattress Tester: Contributor Gaby Ulloa

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, 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 (with 10 being the most comfy)? 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. 

11. The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress

Image courtesy of Nectar

The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress

$1,398 $799 at Nectar Sleep

Made of layers of 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. The mattress is also designed to minimize motion transfer (which is key if you’re sharing your bed). 365-night sleep trial, forever warranty, and free shipping and full refunds. Notably, each mattress purchase comes with a free set of cooling pillows, bedsheets, and a mattress protector.

Mattress tester: Features editor Nick Mafi

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.

12. The Coddle Mattress

The Coddle Mattress

$995 at Coddle

With three targeted support zones from head to toe, the Coddle Mattress provides a different level of support right where your body needs it most. Breathable foam and airflow channels keep the mattress temperature consistently cool with one soft side (made of a coconut-infused, super plush comfort layer) and one firm side (made of a cool foam layer). 60-night sleep trial, 10-year limited warranty, and free shipping and returns.

Mattress tester: Digital design editor Zoë Sessums

How did the delivery go? The best part of the delivery process was that I didn’t have to do anything besides the actual unboxing. I ordered the mattress and it was set to arrive in a matter of days. I wasn’t actually home when the mattress arrived at my building, but the customer service team called me to make sure everything was OK. When I finally got to the package area of my apartment building, there it was, safe and sound. The cardboard box it came in was the size of a small human adult (i.e., me), but since I have an elevator, it was fine to push into my sixth-floor apartment. And fine, my boyfriend was there to help. 

What was the setup like? I anticipated a much more tiresome process for setting up the mattress, but all I had to do was place the box on the floor, long side down, open it up, and shimmy the mattress out of the box. I cut open the plastic and in a matter of minutes, I had a bed! The instructions said it would be ready to go very shortly, and that it was. 

How firm is the mattress? Considering that the mattress just unrolled out of a box, I figured it wouldn’t be too firm, but as someone who doesn’t like a super cushy mattress, I was pleasantly surprised. It’s just the right amount of softness and firmness, and the different sides give me choices. I am a fan. 

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? In the beginning, I found I needed to get used to it, but I also wondered if I was just really sore from an intense move combined with jet lag. After a week or two, I started to love it, which brought me to a solid 8. I could see my rating increase as I try flipping between sides over time. 

How well did you sleep? It’s a little hard to write this, as I feel like I have been under a lot of stress lately and I’m not sleeping well. But I do love getting into bed and when I do sleep, it’s generally pretty great. 

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? For sure. It’s so easy, so comfy, and I really love the removable cover.

13. Original Mattress by Casper

Casper Original Mattress

$1,295 $971 at Casper

$1,295 $971 at Amazon

The Casper mattress is made of three layers of foam—1.5 inches of breathable open-cell foam, 1.5 inches of pressure-relieving memory foam, and 1.5 inches of Zoned Support foam—plus a seven-inch foundation of end-to-end, pocket-coil springs, and three targeted zones of support for proper spinal alignment. 100-night trial, 10-year limited warranty, and free shipping and refunds. 

Mattress tester: Digital executive director Keith Pollock

How did the delivery go? It was very easy! The box was left right at the front door.

What was the setup like? It took two people to unpack the Casper Original and get it onto the bed frame. After that, it was simple: I just removed the plastic wrap and it puffed right up. I would say it took about 20 minutes in total. However, I did notice the mattress had a subtle chemical smell at first. It wasn’t bad—just a slight odor—but it took a few days to go away.

How firm is the mattress? The mattress offers great support—it isn’t too soft or too firm. I also didn’t feel my dogs moving around next to me during the night, which was nice.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being the most comfy)? 9!

How well did you sleep? The first night, the mattress took a bit of getting used to. After that, though, I slept great.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes, I would recommend it. The setup was easy and it’s really comfortable.

14. The Lull Mattress

Photo courtesy of Lull

The Lull Mattress

$1,199 $799 at Lull

Made of a 1.5-inch layer of viscoelastic memory foam top layer with a gel polymer to transfer heat away from the body, a 1.5-inch transition layer made from a proprietary blend of premium foam, and a 7-inch base layer of polyurethane foam, all topped with a handcrafted polyester-and-rayon cover. 100-night risk-free sleep trial, 10-year warranty, and free shipping and returns.

Mattress tester: Contributor Erika Owen

How did the delivery go? It wasn’t confusing at all, but a bit inconvenient. I didn’t get a good read on what time during the day it was going to arrive, and when I came home, it had been placed behind my garbage cans. I wouldn’t necessarily blame that on Lull. I did get a notification when it was delivered, though!

What was the setup like? It was a massive cardboard box. The mattress itself was tightly wrapped in plastic. I had to set it up myself—Lull doesn’t offer setup by the delivery person—which was totally fine because it was so easy. The thing that took the longest was the off-gassing. The “new mattress” smell didn’t fully disappear for a few days.

How firm is the mattress? The mattress is pretty firm, despite a really soft top layer. You sink in a little bit, but you don’t feel like you’re floating on it. Your body doesn’t leave an imprint when you get off it, but there is a bit of a slow bounce back.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 8.

How well did you sleep? I slept so, so well. We got rid of our old mattress because I was having back issues, so I did a lot of research into mattress-in-a-box reviews to figure out which would be the best for my millennial backaches. Almost a year later, I’m still sleeping great—I haven’t noticed any of the sinking they mentioned could happen after lots of use, either.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? I would! You can definitely find cheaper mattresses, but I think it’s a great option for those who like soft-feeling beds but need firmer support. I wish they offered free mattress disposal, but hey, you can’t have everything in life.

15. Casper Nova Hybrid

Casper Nova Hybrid

$2,295 $1,950 at Casper

The Casper Nova Hybrid is constructed with four layers of foam: two breathable Airscape™ layers meant to cool and regulate temperature, one of Zoned Support™ Pro for ergonomic relief, and a polyurethane foam layer that houses the encased springs. Free shipping and returns, 10-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial.

Mattress tester: Contributor Nora Taylor

How did the delivery go? Delivery was great! They said it would get here on Tuesday and it got here on a Tuesday. The box was bulky but not impossible to get into the apartment.

What was the setup like? Easy and strangely fun. This was my first mattress in a box, so I was expecting a much longer expansion time, closer to an inflatable mattress, but it was like, ‘Boop, here’s your new bed!’ 

How firm is the mattress? I would say it’s not firm at all, but it is supportive. You sink luxuriously into the top layer but wake up feeling like you slept on something really sturdy. I’m a side sleeper, so the wrong mattress can lead to some uncomfortable hips in the morning, but that has not been the case with this mattress at all.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I would say a 9.5. It’s so plush compared to what I’m used to, it feels like staying in a fancy hotel rather than just regular life! It also says it has cooling technology, and while I can’t say I noticed feeling more comfortable temperature-wise, I haven’t felt uncomfortable, so that’s something.

How well did you sleep?  Great! The first night I had it I was reluctant to fall asleep since I just wanted to stay up and absorb the luxury, but after that I slept really well.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? If you are a fan of a plush mattress top, I would 100% recommend it. You get to sink into bed but get enough support that your body isn’t thrown out of whack. Also, the actual mattress is this really appealing heather gray, so it looks nice in between sheet changes.

16. The Mattress by Parachute

The Mattress by Parachute

$2,399 $1,919 at Parachute

Made of pure New Zealand wool, 100% organic cotton, and tempered steel, with five times the coils of a standard mattress. 90-day sleep trial, 10-year warranty, and free white-glove delivery and returns.

Mattress tester: Digital deputy director Kristen Flanagan

How did the delivery go? The delivery process was super straightforward. Parachute offers free white-glove delivery service for all mattress orders, which is amazing, especially if you live on the fifth floor, like I do. The delivery window was from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., but they showed up at noon. (Lucky me!) The delivery guy was really nice—he played with my dog and made sure that the mattress was unpacked properly, taking care not to get it dirty.

What was the setup like? The mattress comes rolled up and wrapped in plastic, inside a cardboard box. The delivery guy used a box cutter to remove all of the packaging. (I think he saw the look on my face when he started slashing the box open because he said, “Don’t worry, I do this all the time!”) It took him less than five minutes to unpack it, let it fluff up, and put in place. He took all of the packaging materials with him, which was a nice perk of the white-glove service.

How firm is the mattress? It’s designed to be medium-firm, which I was nervous about, but it turns out I love a firm mattress. My husband and I bought a Sleep Number bed when we first started living together because he likes a firm mattress and I thought I liked a soft mattress. The Parachute mattress is a happy medium for both of us. There is plenty of give, but you don’t sink into it or leave an imprint. My back feels very supported. The hand tufting makes the top soft but not too mushy. I imagine if you’re used to a super cushiony mattress you might not like this one at first, but Parachute has converted me into a medium-firm mattress person.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 9, but again, if you are used to a squishy mattress, there might be an adjustment period here.

How well did you sleep? I’m a light sleeper, so this feels like a loaded question…but! I have noticed that when my husband or I (or let’s face it, our dog) changes position in the middle of the night, there’s less movement across the whole mattress, which is great. Because it’s firmer than our previous mattress, we’re not bouncing each other around in the middle of the night.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? I would highly recommend it, especially if you’re concerned about the materials your mattress is made from. The Parachute mattress is made of pure New Zealand wool, 100% organic cotton, and tempered steel. I am super sensitive to harsh chemicals and itchy fabrics, which makes this a great option for me. It’s also a beautifully made product, so you feel like you’re getting your money’s worth.

17. Mint Mattress by Tuft & Needle

Mint Mattress by Tuft & Needle

$1,595 $1,196 at Tuft & Needle

Made of three layers of Tuft & Needle’s signature T&N Adaptive foam with 30% extra heat-wicking graphite and more gel beads for added breathability compared to the Original Mattress. 100-night sleep trial, 10-year limited warranty, and free shipping and returns.

Mattress tester: AD PRO features editor Anna Fixsen

How did the delivery go? Until recently, I had been sleeping on the first mattress I had when I arrived in NYC seven years ago: a hand-me-down twin box spring. You can only imagine how excited I was for my Tuft & Needle Mint to arrive. My order stated that I would receive the mattress in four days, but all told, it took about a week. But for free delivery, I really couldn’t complain. The mattress showed up in my lobby in a cardboard box the size of a five-year-old. A note of caution: I live on the fourth floor of a Brooklyn walk-up, and despite my undying faith in kettlebell workouts, I definitely needed to call my boyfriend for reinforcement.

What was the setup like? Once I had lugged my mattress upstairs and split open the box (actually, two boxes), the setup process was pretty simple. Basically, the bed comes in a roll like a plastic-wrapped Ho Ho. I got overly enthusiastic and tore into the plastic without placing the mattress on my bed first, as the instructions noted. It inflated unexpectedly quickly—so quickly I was nervous I would inspire a remake of The Blob. But after it began to look more mattress-like, I managed to single-handedly slide it onto my bed frame. After some Netflix bingeing (the instructions said to wait a few hours), I climbed in for the night.

How firm is the mattress? I am a side sleeper and personally prefer a medium-firm, supportive feel, so I went into this test expecting an overly squishy mattress. But the Mint did not disappoint. The invisible support layer is made of cushy gel beads that distributed evenly. It has just enough give, however, to (dare I quote Goldilocks?) feel just right.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? For the first few nights, I would give the mattress an 8 out of 10. My previous mattress was an old-fashioned spring mattress, so it took a bit of adjustment to get used to the denser foam feel. But in the instruction packet, Tuft & Needle told me this might be the case. After a few days, my body adjusted to the feel of the mattress. So all told, I would rate it a 9 out of 10! The Mint mattress provides a luxuriously supportive sleep.

How well did you sleep? I am usually a big toss-and-turner, but I slept noticeably better in this bed than on my previous mattress. I found that I could find my comfy place quickly and fall asleep faster.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Absolutely—especially for side sleepers like me.

18. Avocado Green Mattress

Avocado Green Mattress

$1,999 $1,900 at Avocado Green Mattress

Made of 100% natural latex rubber, Global Organic Textile Standard certified organic wool, GOTS certified organic cotton, and up to 1,414 pocketed support coils, without polyester, polyurethane foams, or toxic fire retardants. 100-night sleep trial, 25-year warranty, and free shipping and returns.

Mattress tester: AD PRO editor Katy Olson

How did the delivery go? It was a straightforward, clear process. Avocado’s delivery partner called me to schedule the delivery a week in advance; they said they’d arrive between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. and ultimately arrived around 9 a.m.

What was the setup like? The latex mattress came in a simple cardboard box (but they had to remove it in order to fit the mattress in my elevator!) and a plastic covering. In my apartment, they removed the rest of the packaging and set it up within minutes.

How firm is the mattress? It’s firm, but not overly so; I opted for no pillow top and was expecting a harder mattress. The one I received is definitely firm, but I wouldn’t compare it to the firmest options at a traditional mattress retailer. You don’t sink into it, but you don’t slide off it either! And I haven’t noticed my body leaving an imprint on it.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 7.

How well did you sleep? I tossed and turned the first night, but I think that was due to a problem with the temperature in my apartment, not the mattress, since that problem didn’t repeat itself as the weeks went by. Also, I’m used to occasionally waking up and starting to sneeze due to allergies, but I noticed an improvement over the last weeks since I’ve been using the mattress. Avocado is an organic brand and uses natural latex, so it’s possible the natural materials helped my allergies.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes! I’d recommend it to those who enjoy a mattress that is firm, but not overly or uncomfortably so. I’d also recommend it to those who are sensitive to plastic and other man-made materials used in most mass-retailer mattresses.

19. Happsy Organic Mattress

Happsy Organic Mattress

$1,399 $1,119 at Happsy

This eco-friendly mattress is completely free of chemicals, glues, and adhesives, and is 100% organic and nontoxic. It’s made of wool, cotton, certified latex, and pocketed springs. Free shipping and returns, 20-year warranty, 120-night sleep trial.

Mattress tester: Contributor Kristi Kellogg

How did the delivery go? Delivery was great. I was able to track it in progress, and it arrived on my porch without incident. The mattress was securely and neatly packed.

What was the setup like? This was my first bed-in-a-box, and I was shocked by how slim and compact the box was when it arrived. It’s amazing how effectively packed the mattress is. This was a two-person project, so my husband and I tackled it together. After slicing through the tape, we removed the plastic surrounding the mattress, and it transformed into a full-size mattress in less than a minute. Right out of the box, it had a bit of an alfalfa smell, but it aired out and completely disappeared within a few days.  

How firm is the mattress? The mattress is firm and solid. It’s just as firm as a regular coiled mattress. I like my mattresses extremely firm (otherwise I get back pain), and this one lived up to my standards. 

How well did you sleep? Like a baby. I’m a side sleeper and my husband is a back sleeper, and we both had zero complaints.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 10.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Absolutely! This is a great mattress that I would happily commit to again.

20. The Lull Mattress

Photo courtesy of Lull

The Lull Mattress

$1,199 $799 at Lull

Made of a 1.5-inch layer of viscoelastic memory foam top layer with a gel polymer to transfer heat away from the body, a 1.5-inch transition layer made from a proprietary blend of premium foam, and a 7-inch base layer of polyurethane foam, all topped with a handcrafted polyester-and-rayon cover. 100-night risk-free sleep trial, 10-year warranty, and free shipping and returns.

Mattress tester: Director of audience development Erika Owen

How did the delivery go? It wasn’t confusing at all, but a bit inconvenient. I didn’t get a good read on what time during the day it was going to arrive, and when I came home, it had been placed behind my garbage cans. I wouldn’t necessarily blame that on Lull. I did get a notification when it was delivered, though!

What was the setup like? It was a massive cardboard box. The mattress itself was tightly wrapped in plastic. I had to set it up myself—Lull doesn’t offer setup by the delivery person—which was totally fine because it was so easy. The thing that took the longest was the off-gassing. The “new mattress” smell didn’t fully disappear for a few days.

How firm is the mattress? The mattress is pretty firm, despite a really soft top layer. You sink in a little bit, but you don’t feel like you’re floating on it. Your body doesn’t leave an imprint when you get off it, but there is a bit of a slow bounce back.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 8.

How well did you sleep? I slept so, so well. We got rid of our old mattress because I was having back issues, so I did a lot of research into mattress-in-a-box reviews to figure out which would be the best bed for my millennial backaches. Almost a year later, I’m still sleeping great—I haven’t noticed any of the sinking they mentioned could happen after lots of use, either.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? I would! You can definitely find cheaper mattresses, but I think it’s a great option for those who like soft-feeling beds but need firmer support. I wish they offered free mattress disposal, but hey, you can’t have everything in life.

21. Amerisleep AS3 Mattress

Amerisleep AS3 Mattress

$1,549 $1,099 at Amerisleep

Rated a three-out-of-five level of firmness (with five being the most firm), the AS3 is Amerisleep’s best-selling mattress. It  features cooling, plant-based memory foam that’s balanced and breathable. Free shipping and returns, 20-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial period.

Mattress tester: Senior SEO analyst Rachel Logie

How did the delivery go? The delivery was great. It went super smoothly! It came neatly and safely packaged in a box and was delivered to my porch.

What was the setup like? The setup was very easy. I just opened the bag surrounding the mattress and waited for it to expand. Then it was good to go! Plus, it smelled fresh and clean right out of the box.

How firm is the mattress? I would say it’s definitely on the softer side. The memory foam bounces back faster than most memory foam mattresses I’ve tried, so you don’t get that “stuck” feeling you sometimes get with other memory foam picks (which I liked). If I had to describe what laying on it feels like, I’d have to it’s like laying on a cloud.

How well did you sleep? While the mattress is very comfortable, I find that I sleep better on a super-firm mattress. I could tell the mattress was super high quality, though, so I use it in my guest room, and my guests have raved about it. My sister, in fact, has been sleeping on the bed for two weeks and absolutely loves it! And though I don’t actually sleep on it, I definitely enjoy lying on it and watching television. The cloudlike feel is perfect for relaxing. 

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 8.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? It totally depends on their mattress preferences. If you prefer a softer mattress, go for it! If you’re a person who loves a firm (but still soft) mattress, I’d suggest choosing the AS5 (which is the firmest mattress in the Amerisleep lineup).

Now that you’ve read up on all these mattress reviews, you’re probably in the mood to go shopping for a new bed-in-a-box. Before you start adding to cart, we wanted to clarify a few matters on pricing and the difference between hybrid and memory foam mattresses.

22. My Green Mattress Natural Escape

Natural Escape Mattress

$1,499 $899 at My Green Mattress

The Natural Escape is a medium-firm luxury organic mattress. The mattress features an innerspring system topped with three inches of organic latex. The top-most layers are made with organic wool and cotton quilting. Free shipping and returns, 20-year warranty, 120-night sleep trial period.

Mattress tester: Contributor Kristi Kellogg

How did the delivery go? Delivery was a breeze. The mattress showed up in a box slightly that was as tall as me, and I was able to push it into my garage without event. This is my second mattress-in-a-box, and I was once again taken aback at the fact a huge mattress is able to compress and roll up into a box. It’s amazing.

What was the setup like? Setup was also a breeze. We let the mattress stay in the box for a few days, and then took the mattress upstairs to unbox it.

How firm is the mattress? The mattress is considered “medium firm,” as is the firmest in the My Green Mattress lineup. I love a firm mattress, and this one feels very good to me. I feel super supported, and haven't experienced any back pain sleeping on it. If you prefer a more pillowy experience, it’s worth noting that My Green Mattress sells plush mattress toppers that give you an extra two inches of softness and pressure point relief.

How well did you sleep on this mattress? I slept great. The mattress is so supportive, and I'm finding myself waking up less throughout the night. 

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 11.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Ab-so-lutely. It’s such a high-quality mattress and super comfortable. Since it’s a direct-to-consumer brand, you really get a great deal (and if you manage to buy it around Black Friday or Labor Day, you’ll probably get to save even more).

23. New Airweave Advanced Mattress

New Airweave Mattress Advanced

$6,000 $5,700 at Airweave

The New Airweave is designed with temperature regulation in mind. It’s made with layers of Airfiber, which is an exclusive Airweave material that lowers your body temperature faster than layers of memory foam. Notably, the mattress is modular and comes in three sections, each of which can be customized to ensure your desired level of firmness. Free shipping, 10-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial period.

Mattress tester: Content Operations Associate Olivia Caligor

How did the delivery and setup go? Multiple friends had to help with transporting the old mattress out of my apartment and the new mattress parts up four flights of stairs. I came home one day and saw three huge boxes—which contained various parts to the mattress—blocking the narrow hallway to my walk-up.

The first box contained a top and bottom cover, the latter with which we laid down on my bed frame. The second box contained three large Aircore blocks, which looked like giant plastic sponges. They felt very hard, and we weren’t sure how it would be possible to sleep on them, though we laid them next to each other on top of the bottom cover. The third box contained two plush layers, both of which I piled onto the Aircore blocks. Finally, we put the outer layer on top and zipped it together with the bottom layer to create the mattress!

How firm is the mattress? Without the two soft layers, it would’ve been too stiff for me to sleep on this mattress—I could very much feel that I was lying on plastic. With both of the optional layers on top, the mattress was still firm but infinitely comfier.

How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I’d give it a 6.5–7. Initially, it felt quite hard, and since I had previously slept on a very soft mattress, the first few nights were definitely an adjustment. I often wake up with neck tension and knots, since changing to this mattress, I’ve noticed a significant decrease in pain.

Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes! Though I will say the assembly process might not be suitable for those who live in walk-ups or small spaces. I barely had enough room to zip the layers up from all four sides or to place the materials during the assembly process. I love that it’s customizable, but you can still adjust the softness as needed with the extra layers. It was also super convenient that I was able to sleep on it right away. Most of all, I’ve found this mattress to be really helpful in mitigating neck tension, so I’d especially recommend it to anyone who wakes up with pains or knots!

How Much Should I Spend on a Mattress?

We want to stress something important: You can’t judge a mattress by its price tag. 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.

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 sized” within a few hours. 

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?

Due to COVID-19, a lot of online mattress companies have suspended 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.

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Are mattress in a box cheaper?