Dr. Barry Jarvis
The mattress industry has been disrupted by the emergence of “bed-in-a-box” options. These cutting edge mattress companies compress premium foam, hybrid and latex mattresses into boxes for convenient delivery to your door.
Unboxing and setting up a mattress in a box takes only minutes compared to hassling with brick-and-mortar stores and pushy salespeople. But with so many bed-in-a-box brands now, how do you determine the best mattresses in a box for your sleep needs?
In this guide, we’ll review 2022’s top 10 mattresses in a box across every sleep style and preference. We’ll compare materials, firmness, pricing, and benefits to help you find the perfect bed in a box for your bedroom.
What Are Mattresses in a Box?
Mattresses in a box revolutionized the industry through a new direct-to-consumer model. These innovative brands manufacture quality mattresses, then compress and roll them into surprisingly small boxes for affordable shipping right to your home.
Unboxing is simple – just unwrap the compressed mattress, place it on the bed frame, and watch it decompress to full size within minutes. Most bed-in-a-box companies offer generous risk-free trial periods so you can test out the mattress for comfort.
Buying mattresses online bypasses expensive brick-and-mortar showrooms and high-pressure sales tactics. Mattress in a box brands focus on superior quality at affordable prices compared to traditional mattress stores.
Now let’s review the top 10 mattress in a box options across all styles and preferences to find your perfect bed!
1. Amerisleep AS3 – Best Overall Mattress in a Box
Best for:
- Side, back and combination sleepers
- Couples
- Hot sleepers
- Eco-friendly shoppers
Amerisleep’s AS3 is our top choice overall thanks to its pressure-relieving memory foam comfort layers and dynamic responsiveness. Its HIVE® technology provides zoned ergonomic support and healthy spinal alignment in any sleep position.
We also love that it sleeps cool and uses eco-friendly Bio-Pur® materials. The AS3 works for all sleeping positions and body types as a fantastic all-around option.
Materials:
- Bio-Pur® memory foam
- Affinity foam with HIVE® technology
- Bio-Core® support foam
Firmness: Medium – 5/10
Thickness: 12″
Warranty: 20 years
Price: $$
With a perfect balance of comfort, support and cool sleeping, the Amerisleep AS3 is ideal for almost any sleeper. Reasonably priced and covered by a long warranty, it’s a mattress in a box we highly recommend.
2. Nectar Sleep – Best Memory Foam Mattress in a Box
Best for:
- Side and back sleepers
- Couples
- Lightweight sleepers
Nectar Sleep is a highly popular memory foam mattress in a box known for its signature gel-infused, quilted memory foam comfort layer. This adapts closely to the body while dissipating heat that memory foam is notorious for trapping.
We like Nectar for side sleepers needing deep contouring pressure relief at the hips and shoulders. The foam isolates motion very well also making it ideal for couples. And lightweight persons get the most proportional support from the generous foam layers.
Materials:
- Gel-infused memory foam
- Adaptive hi-core foam
- Supportive base foam
Firmness: Medium – 6/10
Thickness: 12″
Warranty: Lifetime
Price: $
With its superb pressure-relieving properties ideal for side sleeping, Nectar is the best memory foam mattress in a box at an affordable price-point.
3. Leesa Hybrid – Best Mattress in a Box for Back Pain
Best for:
- Back pain sufferers
- Stomach and back sleepers
- Heavier individuals
The Leesa Hybrid mattress stands out with its combination of foam layers over pocket springs. This provides the motion isolation, contouring and pressure relief of foam with the responsiveness and depth of traditional springs.
We especially like Leesa Hybrid for back and stomach sleepers over 230 lbs who need extra support. The micro-coils give appropriate pushback to keep the spine aligned in these positions. The foam also minimizes shoulder and hip pressure points.
Materials:
- Comfort foam
- Memory foam
- Transition foam
- Over 1500 pocket springs
Firmness: Medium Firm – 7/10
Thickness: 11″
Warranty: 10 years
Price: $$$
With its responsive coil-foam construction suiting most body types along with robust edge support, this is the best mattress in a box for back pain and heavier back sleepers.
4. DreamCloud – Best Luxury Mattress in a Box
Best for:
- Back sleepers
- Hot sleepers
- Luxury mattress seekers
DreamCloud delivers hotel-style luxury and comfort comparable to brands like Tempur-Pedic at a more affordable bed-in-a-box price.
We like it for strict back sleepers who require a firmer sleep surface to fully support the spine’s natural alignment. The quilted cashmere top and foam-coil layers provide a luxurious five-star feel.
Materials:
- Cashmere top
- Gel foam
- Memory foam
- Transition layers
- Pocketed innerspring coils
Firmness: Luxury Firm – 8/10
Thickness: 14″
Warranty: Lifetime
Price: $$$
For those seeking a sumptuous, cushy mattress-in-a-box like an upscale hotel bed, DreamCloud is a top contender combining premium materials, generous comfort layers and robust support.
5. Zoma Start – Best Mattress in a Box for Athletes
Best for:
- Active individuals
- Athletes
- Muscle recovery
- Multiple sleep positions
Zoma caters to active folks which makes it one of the best mattresses in a box for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Its performance-focused design includes targeted relief zones along with responsive foam to facilitate muscle recovery. We like it for combination sleepers thanks to the balance of contouring comfort and resilient support.
Materials:
- Gel memory foam
- ReactivTM latex-like foam
- Support foam core
Firmness: Medium – 5/10
Thickness: 10″
Warranty: 10 years
Price: $$
Zoma perfectly melds cooling comfort and pressure relief with responsive bounce making it ideally suited for active bodies in motion overnight.
6. Tuft & Needle – Best Budget Mattress in a Box
Best for:
- Budget shoppers
- College students
- Guest bedrooms
- Pressure relief
With its exceptional value pricing, Tuft & Needle is one of the least expensive mattresses-in-a-box while still providing comfort.
We like it for shoppers on a tight budget like college students or secondary bedrooms. The adaptive foam cradles the body reasonably well at a price typically under $600 for a queen.
Materials:
- T&N adaptive foam
- Supportive base foam
Firmness: Medium Firm – 7/10
Thickness: 10″
Warranty: 10 years
Price: $
For an affordable yet decent mattress-in-a-box alternative, Tuft & Needle delivers satisfactory comfort and support without breaking the bank.
7. Helix Midnight Luxe – Best Mattress in a Box for Side Sleepers
Best for:
- Strict side sleepers
- Sleepers wanting a plush feel
With its soft feel and generous layers of pressure-relieving memory foam, Helix Midnight Luxe ranks among the best mattresses in a box specifically for side sleeping.
That high-density foam cradles delicate joints like the hips and shoulders. We like that its cushioning hybrid design still provides support thanks to the added pocket coils. The pillow top also adds a plush hotel suite feel.
Materials:
- Breathable TENCEL® cover
- Gel visco memory foam
- Pocketed support coils
- Foam encasement
Firmness: Medium Soft – 4/10
Thickness: 14″
Warranty: 15 years
Price: $$$
Designed explicitly for side sleepers needing enhanced pressure point cushioning, the Helix Midnight Luxe takes a luxurious approach to alleviating joint aches.
8. Bear Pro – Best Cooling Mattress in a Box
Best for:
- Hot sleepers
- Active individuals
- Pressure point relief
Bear Mattress specializes in mattresses catering to athletes and active lifestyles. The Bear Pro is their most advanced bed-in-a-box combining specialized cooling technologies along with targeted relief zones.
We like it for heavily active individuals who tend to sleep hot and need extra recovery overnight. The graphite-gel memory foam and Celliant® cover wick away heat for restorative sleep.
Materials:
- Celliant® cover
- Gel polyfoam
- Graphite memory foam
- Transition and support foams
Firmness: Medium – 6/10
Thickness: 12″
Warranty: Lifetime
Price: $$$
For those struggling with getting overheated during the night, the Bear Pro combats sleeping hot using unique cooling features along with pressure relief.
9. Nolah Evolution – Best Mattress in a Box for Couples
Best for:
- Couples
- Combo sleepers
- Spine alignment
With advanced cooling features and superb motion isolation, we like the Nolah Evolution as the best mattress in a box for couples with different sleep habits and positions.
The foam absorbs movement so you don’t disturb each other tossing and turning overnight. Reinforced edges also make this durable and supportive for amorous activity. And it stays cool with specialized AirFoamTM.
Materials:
- Cooling cover
- AirFoamTM
- Gel foam
- Transitional foam
- High-density base
Firmness: Medium – 5/10
Thickness: 15”
Warranty: Lifetime
Price: $$$
With excellent motion isolation and strong temperature regulation, the Nolah Evolution allows uninterrupted sleep for co-sleepers.
10. Birch Natural – Best Organic Mattress in a Box
Best for:
- Eco-conscious shoppers
- Allergies/sensitivities
- Hybrid mattress feel
As a brand focused on organic and natural materials, Birch offers outstanding options for anyone seeking greener, cleaner sleep.
We like the medium-firm Birch Natural mattress for its botanical latex, pocketed coil combo providing contouring for joints while limiting sinkage. All materials protect sensitive individuals. A natural wool fire barrier replaces toxic flame retardants.
Materials:
- Organic cotton cover
- Natural wool
- Talalay latex
- Pocketed steel coils
Firmness: Medium Firm – 7/10
Thickness: 11″
Warranty: 25 years
Price: $$
The Birch Natural mattress provides an eco-friendly, natural alternative to mainstream mattress-in-a-box options using organic materials and certifications.
Mattress in a Box Buyer’s Guide
Now that you know the top mattress in a box options, here are some key factors to consider while choosing the best bed for your needs:
Sleep Style and Body Type
Match mattress materials and firmness to your sleep position, body type, and preference for “feel” – such as plush or firm.
Quality Materials
Look for quality foams, latex and coils that provide pressure relief and support. Avoid cheap polyurethane blends.
Cooling Features
Those who sleep hot should consider specialized covers, gels and airflow designs to remain cool.
Motion Isolation
Memory foam muffles movement best if sharing with a partner or pets. Latex and coils isolate motion better than standard polyfoams.
Height and Weight Accommodation
Some mattress in a box models work better for heavier weights than others based on materials. Also pay attention to thickness needs.
Adjustable Base Compatibility
Consider an adjustable base. Some mattresses pair better than others based on materials and thickness.
Trial Periods and Return Policy
Make the most of risk-free trial periods to test out the mattress. Understand any return policies and potential fees.
Price and Value
Mattress in a box models range widely in pricing from budget-friendly to luxury. Ensure the investment matches the value received and materials quality.
Following these buying considerations helps you select your ideal mattress in a box aligned with your sleep preferences, body attributes and budget.
Mattress in a Box FAQs
Looking to learn more about the mattress in a box concept? See answers below to frequently asked questions:
How do you unbox a mattress in a box?
Carefully lift the compressed mattress from the box and unwrap the layers of plastic. Position on the bed frame and allow to fully decompress for 24-72 hours before adding bedding.
Do mattresses in a box need special foundations?
Most foam, latex and hybrid options are compatible with any solid, flat foundation like a platform bed or slat system with less than 3 inch gaps. Always check specs.
How long does it take for a mattress to decompress?
Within minutes the mattress will expand close to full size when removed from the packaging. Allow 24-72 hours for complete off-gassing and decompression.
Do mattresses in a box sag over time?
Quality foam and hybrid options maintain their shape and performance for many years. Rotating the mattress helps evenly distribute wear over a lifespan of at least 7 years for most models.
Can mattresses in a box be used on adjustable bases?
Most can adapt well to bases, especially soft to medium models under 12 inches thick. Check your specific mattress specs for compatibility. Some pairs better than others.
The convenience of buying mattresses in a box online combined with generous trial periods makes finding your perfect bed easier than ever. Carefully assess your needs so you can identify which of the top options outlined here will provide the most comfortable sleep.
Originally posted on September 18, 2023 @ 6:55 am
Author
Dr. Barry Jarvis
Dr. Barry Jarvis is a renowned sleep specialist, dedicating their illustrious career to the intricate world of sleep medicine. Holding a medical degree from a prestigious institution, Dr. Jarvis has cultivated a deep understanding of the complex mechanisms that govern sleep and its pivotal role in overall health and well-being. With a compassionate approach and a meticulous eye for detail, Dr. Jarvis has helped countless individuals reclaim restful nights and vibrant days. Beyond their clinical expertise, they have contributed to groundbreaking research in sleep medicine, unraveling the mysteries of sleep disorders and pioneering innovative treatments that stand at the forefront of the field.
