Cheap Mattress, Expensive Mistake: What to Check Before You Buy

By the Cambridge Beds & Furniture team, 199 Thames Street, Morrinsville. Updated September 2026.

You spend about a third of your life on your mattress, so a low price that leads to years of poor sleep is not a bargain. A cheap mattress isn't automatically bad, but you need to know what to look for. Use this checklist before you pay, wherever you buy.

What type of spring is inside?

Bonnell springs are linked together and are an affordable, supportive choice. Pocket springs sit in individual fabric pockets and move independently, which usually means better support and less disturbance from a partner. Both can be good value if well made. We stock the SleepTime Kyro Bonnell for budget-friendly support and the SleepTime Pocket Pillowtop if you want individual pocket springs with a softer top layer.

Is the comfort level right for you?

Firm isn't always better, and soft isn't always comfortable. Your weight, sleeping position and any back concerns all matter. Browse by feel in our medium firm mattresses and compare it with softer and firmer options in store. Lie on the mattress in your normal sleeping position for a few minutes, not just sit on the edge.

What is the cover and top layer made of?

A thin cover and a shallow foam layer flatten quickly. Look for a firm, even surface with no lumps, and ask what the layers are made from.

Does it come with a warranty and a trial?

This is where private and unbranded sales usually fall short. A branded mattress from a store has a warranty in writing, and eligible mattresses can come with a comfort guarantee. Ask what is covered and for how long. Our guide to what a bed warranty covers in NZ explains what to look for.

Is the size correct?

NZ sizes differ from overseas ones, and an imported mattress might not fit your base. Check the dimensions against your frame using our bed size guide.

Signs you should walk away

• The seller can't say who made it or what is inside.
• There are stains, odours or sagging in the middle.
• No receipt, label or warranty information.
• You can't test it or return it.
• The price is far below similar new mattresses with no explanation.

How can I make a mattress last?

Even a good mattress needs care: a protector, rotating it, and a supportive base. See our mattress care guide.

Not sure which one to pick?

Tell us your budget and how you sleep and we'll show you what fits. If the budget is tight, our finance options (Afterpay, GEM Visa, Finance Now and Q Mastercard) let you spread the cost of a better-made mattress. Contact us or visit us in Morrinsville. For a wider view of price and value, read are furniture stores really more expensive.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if a cheap mattress is any good?

Check the spring type, the cover and layers, the size, and whether it has a warranty and a trial. If the seller can't answer these, it's a warning sign.

Is a Bonnell spring mattress a good choice?

Yes, for many people. Bonnell mattresses are affordable and supportive, and suit guest rooms or tighter budgets.

Are pocket spring mattresses worth the extra?

Often, yes, because individual springs move independently and can reduce partner disturbance.

Should I buy a second-hand mattress?

We don't recommend it. You can't see inside, hygiene is a concern, and a worn mattress won't support you properly.