Best Cheap Mattresses in Australia

Our Reviews of the Best Budget Mattresses in Australia

Best Overall — Editor’s Pick - Noa Mattress

The Noa kicks off the  best cheap mattresses review list because if you didn’t know its price tag, you might think you’re sleeping on a luxurious hotel bed!

Even though this mattress seems to have a basic construction, it can surprise you with some features worthy of high-end mattresses.

Firstly, there’s a natural latex layer that ensures close conforming to your body curves and proper weight distribution, so you won’t get aching pressure points in any sleeping position. This layer is paired with soft gel-infused memory foam to enhance the cooling effect and add extra comfort for your bad back.

Secondly, the Noa has solid edge support and overall uniform surface thanks to the individually wrapped coil system. So, if you or your partner love to stretch in the bed, now you can get that extra space, without the sagging edges.

Here’s the bottom line:

The Noa has everything that you may value in a good mattress without burning a hole in your wallet. If you’re tight on budget and looking for a durable and reliable bed, this mattress might work for you.

What to Expect from an inexpensive mattress?

Many factors influence the final price of the mattress: the quality of the materials, certification, extra features and popularity.

So, let’s see what you can expect from an average inexpensive mattress, so you can outline your budget more wisely.

• Thinner construction. Thicker mattresses require more resources and energy to be produced, which is directly reflected in the price. So, if you’re in the market for a budget-friendly bed, prepare to browse through models that are on the thinner side — 24–27 cm high on average. These mattresses will most likely have up to 5–6 layers.
• Fewer features. Extra perks such as a removable cover, carrying handles, or a zoned base layer will add additional costs to the price of your bed. However, the mattress market is constantly expanding. As new mattress brands pop up, the chances today of finding a low-cost bed, with additional  features, is significantly higher than it was 2–3 years ago.
• Lower quality of materials. Sometimes mattress brands replace natural materials for cheaper, synthetic ones or import them from other countries, i.e. China, to reduce the cost of the final product. This may impact the durability of the mattress or its hypoallergenic properties, so be sure to check certification labels before you buy.
• Cheaper fabrics. The same goes for the fabrics. It’s unlikely that you’ll find natural cotton, bamboo, or linen cover on a cheap mattress. Polyester, synthetic blends, and semi-natural Tencel fibre are the most common options.

“Sometimes, however, you might get lucky and purchase a discontinued model for a mediocre price. Don’t hesitate to subscribe to the mailing list from the mattress store so that you won’t miss the deal.”

Which Mattress Type is the Cheapest?

There’s one thing that remains stable, regardless of your budget: the four most common mattress types.

Despite the vast choice of models, you’re still choosing from  innerspring, memory foam, hybrid, or latex.

So, which one of these mattress types is the most budget-friendly?

See for yourself!

Innerspring Mattress

Innerspring beds in different variations are the most popular mattress type in Australia (1). 

It gets even better:

Traditional innerspring mattresses are also the most affordable mattress type you can find, as they feature simple construction with 1–2 comfort layers above the coil block.

The main features of an innerspring mattress are:

• great edge support;
• uniform surface;
• ability to withstand large weights, which makes them a good choice for a heavy user.

However, innerspring mattresses are also the first to wear out and should be replaced every 7–10 years.

Memory Foam Mattresses

The second best mattress type on the market, memory foam mattresses, are known for their exceptional pain relief and cradling benefits. Due to the popularity of memory foam beds, you can find a lot of them in the low-cost segment. Note, though, that most common memory foam complaints — such as poor thermoregulation, chemical odours, and excess sinkage — may become more pronounced in cheaper models.

“Memory foam beds with low-density foam cores also are more prone to losing their shape and supportive properties quickly, so be sure to pair your mattress with a supportive bed base.” - Casper

Hybrid Mattresses

The mattress type combines a coil core and foam layers. Typically, hybrids deliver a balance between natural spinal support and pressure relief.

The main problem with hybrid beds is their inconsistency. Depending on the materials used, you can find an awesome mattress for AUD $300 or end up with a complete waste for AUD$1,500. So be sure to do your research or look for professional reviews to choose the best model for you.

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses seem to be the preferred mattress type They’re made of natural and renewable material, are hypoallergenic, and also breathable.

The thing is, they’re also the most expensive.

You’ll rarely find an all-latex mattress under AUD $1,000, unless you stumble upon a sale, or purchase a discontinued model. As a compromise, however, you can opt for mattresses that feature a latex layer