Guest Room and Small Space Mattresses
Best Mattress in a Box for a Studio Apartment
7 picks compared
6 min read
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The short answerFor a studio apartment, the Zinus 12 Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress offers the best value. The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress excels in comfort. The Lucid 10 Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress is a solid budget pick.
?How we pickedWe compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.
Zinus 12 Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 best overall for studio apartments
This 12-inch memory foam mattress offers a medium-firm feel. It includes green tea extract and castor seed oil to control odor. The cover is removable and washable, which helps in a small space.
Thickness 12 inchesFirmness Medium-firmFoam Type Memory foamWeight Approx. 50 lbs
- Good edge support for sitting
- Low motion transfer
- Affordable price
- May sleep warm for some
- Off-gassing smell initially
Best for: best overall for studio apartments
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.8 / 5 best for pressure relief
The Nectar has a 5-layer construction with gel memory foam. It provides excellent pressure relief for side sleepers. The cover is made of a breathable quilted material.
Thickness 11 inchesFirmness Medium-firmFoam Type Gel memory foamWeight Approx. 90 lbs
- Excellent pressure relief
- Long 365-night trial
- Lifetime warranty
- Heavy to move in small spaces
- Higher price point
Best for: best for pressure relief
Lucid 10 Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress
★★★★★ 4.3 / 5 best budget pick
This mattress combines gel-infused memory foam and a supportive base layer. It has a medium-firm feel. The 10-inch profile is ideal for low-profile bed frames.
Thickness 10 inchesFirmness Medium-firmFoam Type Gel memory foamWeight Approx. 40 lbs
- Very affordable
- Lightweight for a box
- Good temperature regulation
- Less durable over time
- May not suit heavy sleepers
Best for: best budget pick
Casper Element Mattress
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 best for back sleepers
The Casper Element features a zoned support system. It provides extra support to the hips and lower back. The breathable foam helps keep you cool.
Thickness 10 inchesFirmness MediumFoam Type Memory foam and polyfoamWeight Approx. 60 lbs
- Zoned support for back pain
- Breathable materials
- Easy setup
- Not ideal for stomach sleepers
- No handles for moving
Best for: best for back sleepers
Tuft & Needle Original Mattress
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 best for couples in small spaces
This mattress uses adaptive foam that responds to movement. It has a medium-firm feel. The cover is soft and stretchy, adding to comfort.
Thickness 10 inchesFirmness Medium-firmFoam Type Adaptive foamWeight Approx. 75 lbs
- Excellent motion isolation
- Good edge support
- 100-night trial
- May be too firm for some
- No pillow top
Best for: best for couples in small spaces
Sleep Number Classic Series C2 Mattress
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 best for adjustable firmness
This mattress allows you to adjust firmness on each side. It uses air chambers and foam layers. The remote control is easy to use.
Thickness 9 inchesFirmness AdjustableFoam Type Air and foamWeight Approx. 100 lbs
- Personalized firmness
- Great for couples with different needs
- Durable construction
- Expensive
- Requires power outlet
Best for: best for adjustable firmness
Milliard Tri-Folding Mattress with Washable Cover
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 best for Murphy beds and floor sleeping
This tri-fold mattress is made of high-density foam. It is easy to fold and store. The cover is removable and machine washable.
Thickness 6 inchesFirmness MediumFoam Type High-density foamWeight Approx. 25 lbs
- Folds for easy storage
- Lightweight and portable
- Washable cover
- Thinner, less support for some
- Not ideal for permanent bed
Best for: best for Murphy beds and floor sleeping
A mattress in a box solves the delivery problem. But not all are equal for small spaces. Some are too thick or heavy for a Murphy bed. Others lack edge support for sitting. We focused on models that work well in tight quarters.
What to look for in a mattress for a studio apartment
Consider the size of the room and the bed frame. A thicker mattress may be too tall for a Murphy bed. Check the weight if you need to move it often. Look for edge support if you sit on the edge. Also, consider temperature regulation for small spaces.
How to choose the right firmness
Firmness is a personal choice, but it affects comfort. Side sleepers often prefer softer mattresses. Back sleepers may need medium to medium-firm. Stomach sleepers usually need firmer support. In a studio, a medium-firm is a safe compromise.
Mattress types: memory foam vs hybrid vs innerspring
Memory foam contours to the body and isolates motion. Hybrids combine foam and coils for more support. Innersprings are bouncy but may not last as long. For small spaces, foam is lighter and easier to move.
Space-saving tips for studio apartments
Use a foldable mattress for flexibility. Choose a low-profile frame to maximize vertical space. Consider a bed with storage underneath. A mattress that can be rolled or folded helps when you need to clear the floor.
Questions people ask
What is the best mattress in a box for a studio apartment?
The Zinus 12 Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress is a top pick for its balance of comfort and price. It is also lightweight enough for small spaces.
How thick should a mattress be for a Murphy bed?
For a Murphy bed, choose a mattress that is 6 to 8 inches thick. Thicker mattresses may not fold properly or fit the cabinet.
Can I use a regular mattress in a studio apartment?
Yes, but consider the size and weight. A queen-size mattress may dominate a small room. A twin or full might be more practical.
What is the difference between memory foam and hybrid mattresses?
Memory foam uses layers of foam for contouring. Hybrids have coils and foam for more bounce and support. Hybrids are heavier and may be harder to move.
Is a foldable mattress good for everyday use?
Foldable mattresses are convenient but may not offer the same support as a full-size mattress. They are better for occasional use or guests.
How do I choose the right firmness for a small space?
Consider your sleeping position and personal preference. Medium-firm is versatile and works for many. Test different options if possible.
What is the best mattress for a studio apartment with a Murphy bed?
The Milliard Tri-Folding Mattress is a good choice because it is thin and folds easily. It fits Murphy beds and can be stored when not in use.
Can I get a mattress that is easy to move in a studio?
Look for lightweight models like the Lucid 10 Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress. It weighs about 40 pounds and is easier to handle.
What is the best mattress for back pain in a studio apartment?
The Casper Element Mattress offers zoned support for the lower back. It is a good option for back sleepers with pain.
Is it worth buying an adjustable mattress for a studio?
If you have specific comfort needs, an adjustable mattress like the Sleep Number can be worth it. But it is more expensive and requires power.
The bottom lineSo which one?
For most studio dwellers, the Zinus 12 Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress offers the best value. It is comfortable, affordable, and easy to manage. If you need flexibility, consider the Milliard Tri-Folding Mattress.
