A bed in a box, also known as a mattress in a box or roll-up mattress, has become increasingly popular in recent times. Traditionally we would go into a brick and mortar store to purchase a mattress. We would spend some time trying it out, determining how satisfied we would be for the next 5 years.
The bed in a box concept completely revolutionised the delivery of mattresses and how we trial mattresses. Deliveries are generally to your door, with some companies offering a premium service to take it up to your room of choice and unpack it for you.
Besides the actual mattress, the trial and warranty are what should grab your attention. The bed in a box industry offer trials from 30-nights to 100-nights to even 356-nights. We recommend you read the fine print of the trial as some allow you to receive a full refund within this time, whereas others offer a mattress exchange. Consider reading the warranty conditions too.
(Important Facts, Studies, Advice, Considerations & FAQs in Conclusion).
1. Emma Original Bed In A Box Mattress
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Airgocell foam • Reduced motion transfer • Visco-elastic memory foam | • Couples • A range of sleeping positions • Those who prefer foam mattresses |
Emma set out to create the most well-rounded and balanced mattress. Whether you sleep on your front, back or side, it is designed for all sleeping positions. The Emma Original mattress is also one of the UK's most awarded mattresses.
The mattress is designed with a 3-layered foam design. The top comfort layer is made using a temperature-regulating Airgocell foam; this layer is included to help ensure breathability and comfort. The middle layer is made from pressure-relieving memory foam for body contouring. Finally, the base support layer includes castellations which help keep your spine aligned. Furthermore, Emma claims the mattress has zero-motion transfer, making it a good option for couples.
The Emma mattress arrives vacuum sealed, rolled and boxed. From the time it arrives, you will have 200-nights to test the mattress, and if you are not satisfied within this period, they will collect it and offer you a full refund.
*Based on Emma Hybrid Mattress but still worth a watch
2. Nectar Bed In A Box Mattress
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Forever warranty • 7-zone supportive base • 365- day trial | • Those who prefer reduced motion transfer • Sleepers seeking pressure relief • Individuals who value sustainability |
The Nectar mattress stands out for its warranty and trial period, with a 365-night trial in which you can test the mattress for all four seasons. If you are not 100% satisfied within this time frame, you can schedule a collection and receive a full refund, although Nectar states that less than 3% return their mattresses. Moreover, you receive a forever warranty, although it's worth reading up on their terms and conditions.
This mattress in a box has a substantial amount of foam within its layers, with one out of the three foam layers using memory foam while another layer uses a support foam. This support layer helps to regulate temperature while maintaining sufficient airflow. Generally, memory foam mattresses can be well suited for couples as they minimise motion transfer and can also offer great pressure relief.
The Nectar mattress is also very well rated on third-party review sites, with a vast majority of the reviews being rated as excellent. We always recommend reading customer reviews, especially of beds in boxes, as they are often sold online.
3. Simba Hybrid Bed In A Box Mattress
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Simba-pure foam with graphite • 2500 Aerocoil springs • Environmentally friendly | • Those who prefer pocket springs • Individuals with allergies • Sleepers who enjoy edge-support |
The Simba mattress is a good choice for the eco-conscious, as it's made from 100% recycled materials. The hybrid mattress aims to use the supportive benefits of pocket springs and the comfort of foams in a way that's created to provide you with a good balance.
The mattress uses open-cell Simba-Pure foam, which includes graphite, designed to help with cooling. Additionally, there are up to 2,500 Aerocoil springs to add extra firmness and support. Other layers intended to increase stability are the zoned support base and edge support.
This mattress construction has garnered positive attention from several third-party organisations and publications. What's more, for those with allergies, the mattress also includes a hypoallergenic knitted cover.
Overall, Simba is a popular choice in the mattress and bed in a box category. Their mattresses come with a 200-night trial and a 10-year guarantee.
4. Eve Premium Hybrid Bed In A Box Mattress
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Medium-firm comfort • Silver strands in cover • 7 layered design | • Those looking for an antibacterial/ antimicrobial cover • Those with a higher budget • Sleepers looking for added support |
The Eve Premium Hybrid mattress is highly rated and consistently ranks in the top positions in mattress ranking guides. It also stands at a higher price point, making it a good option for those with a more flexible budget.
The Eve Premium Hybrid is an advancement from the standard Eve Hybrid mattress. There are 7 layers, including 1500 mm full-sized springs, which allow for extra support and breathability. There is also a memory foam layer with active cooling and a top Floatfoam® layer designed for even further cooling. Moreover, there are tiny silver strands embedded into the cover, which make it antibacterial and antimicrobial.
Like most mattresses in a box, the Eve Premium Hybrid is regarded as a medium-firm comfort level, which can be a good fit for a wide range of sleepers and sleeping positions. Furthermore, Eve mattress offers a 365-night trial; if you're dissatisfied within this period, they will take care of the collection and offer a refund. The mattresses also come with a 10-year warranty.
5. Brook & Wilde Lux Bed In A Box Mattress
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • 2 layers of springs • Wave technology • 10-year warranty | • Those seeking improved spinal alignment • Individuals who prefer UK-based products • Sleepers requiring neck and shoulder support |
Brook + Wilde have come out with two mattresses, the Lux, which we included in this list, and also a more premium version called the Elite. The Brook + Wilde mattresses are available in three firmness choices, soft, medium and firm.
The Lux is made up of 6 layers using different types of foam and springs. One of the support foams uses wave technology, which is ultimately designed to help correct spinal alignment by ensuring sufficient support and stability. The mattress also uses cooling memory foam for extra comfort and to reduce motion transfer. Additionally, there are two layers of springs, 2,000 mini pocket springs and 1,000 larger springs., which aim to provide a bouncy feel while contouring to your body.
As with most mattresses in a box, the Brook + Wilde Lux also comes with a 100-night comfort trial. You can either get a refund or exchange it for a different comfort choice; however, always try to check the terms and conditions. Additionally, as their mattress is made to last, the mattress is guaranteed for 10 years.
6. Vesgantti Bed In A Box Mattress
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Hybrid design • Individually wrapped pocket springs • Designed for all sleeping positions | • Individuals on a budget • Couples • Sleepers who value breathability |
If you are looking for a budget mattress, the Vesgantti Pro Hybrid Mattress could be a good option. This 10.3 Inch Vesgantti mattress has many positive customer reviews especially commenting on the great value for money. A handful of customers also commented on the mattress being softer than expected.
The mattress is constructed using many layers to provide a balance of comfort and stability. Using a hybrid design layout, individually wrapped pocket springs are designed to isolate movement, making it a good possibility for couples.
Aside from the springs, there is also a cooling foam layer and a cooling cover, with both aiming to promote breathability and regulate the temperature. Natural fillings are also used within the layers to help with comfort and airflow. It is also claimed to be suitable for any sleeping position while maintaining sufficient spinal alignment.
In addition, the Vesgatti mattress also comes with a 100-night trial and a 10-year limited warranty.
What Is A Bed In A Box?
A bed in a box, otherwise known as a mattress in a box, is essentially a mattress transported and delivered inside a box or bag. The mattress will likely be compressed and rolled up, then vacuum sealed within the box, typically made from plastic.
Bed in a box mattresses are available in different materials; however, most are made using some type of foam, as it can be easier to compress and roll up. Despite being tightly rolled, there have been few complaints regarding structural damage, and the mattress can usually recover to its full size and shape in 1 to 2 days.
The Origins Of The Bed In A Box
The bed in the box owes much of its success to the American company Casper. However, contrary to belief, the bed in a box was actually launched somewhere between 2004 and 2007 by Bill Bradley, the CEO of the company, BedInABox®. Bradley’s innovative idea was realised when he and his team built and designed a machine to conveniently compress and box mattresses.
Despite launching in 2006, the bed in the box truly rose to prominence in 2014 by the then start-up company, Casper. Within a single month, Casper generated over a million, mainly due to the popularity of the mattress in a box. The CEO, Phillip Krim, aimed to create a unique experience while targeting a younger, fast-paced audience.
"We got excited about the direct-to-consumer movement that's penetrated other industries… the ability for people to sell directly to consumers through a website is a really exciting shift in the way retail works”
Philip Krim, Casper CEO
Due to Casper’s success, they managed to raise a total of $70 million in funding, only a year after initially starting up. Since then, other companies, such as those we now see in the UK, followed suit and began to further popularise this new and easy way of selling mattresses. Nowadays, bed in a box mattresses can be found on the websites of many popular brands, offering convenience and speed in a time where the digital world is booming.
Is A Mattress In A Box Right For You?
Purchasing a mattress can be an investment and is often expected to be durable. For this reason, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons of each type of mattress, and most importantly, how it aligns with your personal needs and preferences. These are some points to consider when purchasing a bed in a box mattress.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✓ Easy to transport: You don’t need to worry about transportation or heavy lifting | ✗ Delivery: Consider waiting and delivery times, as well as the reliability of the delivery service |
| ✓ Convenience: You can browse and purchase online, any time and any place | ✗ No try before you buy: Further research should be done to ensure it’s the right mattress for you |
| ✓ Options: There may be more options online, which are often conveniently categorised and sorted | ✗ Limited materials: Most bed in a box mattresses are made from foam or hybrid materials |
| ✓ Price: Bed in a box mattresses are often cheaper, as expenses such as salespeople are cut out | ✗ Salespeople: While some enjoy the privacy of online shopping, it also means you may not have the same in-person advice and help found in a store |
| ✓ Sleep trials: The standard is often around 100 nights or more, giving you plenty of time to adjust and decide | ✗ Off-gassing: Bed in a box mattresses often give off a temporary odour which can be unpleasant for some |
Unboxing A Bed In A Box
Once you've done your research and purchased a mattress in a box, it's good to know the steps you can take when unboxing and the important points to consider.
- Careful when opening with scissors or a knife so as not to damage the mattress. Although, mattress in a box companies often send a manual with an unboxing kit to help with this process.
- Remember to take the mattress into the room it will be used in as it could be more difficult to manoeuvre once it has expanded.
- Off-gassing: Some mattresses will release an unpleasant odour when unpackaged. This is due to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in certain materials. VOCs are usually harmless, but it’s advised to allow the mattress to breathe while ventilating the room.
- After unpackaging, the mattress should expand immediately, but may take up to 2 days to fully recover to its intended size and shape. The waiting time for this process is often stated on the packaging or website.
Good to know!
Some companies offer a white glove delivery service where someone will unbox the mattress for you. If interested, you should check if this is offered as a free service or at an extra cost.
Bed In A Box Brands & Companies UK
- Emma
- Simba
- Eve
- Brook + Wilde
- OTTY
- Tweak Slumber
- Tempur
- Silentnight
- REM-Fit
- Nectar
- Made
- Ergoflex
- DreamCloud
- Dormeo
Most Popular Bed In A Box Brands
Buying from a reputable brand can be an important part of purchasing a mattress. This is particularly true when buying a mattress in a box, and you are forced to place your trust in the brand, as you are unable to try before you buy. By analysing Google trends and search queries, we can see the popularity between some of the most popular bed in a box brands in the UK. According to Google Trends, the Emma mattress seems to be the most searched for; in fact, the company has recently crossed the one-million milestone. These results are UK-based, from 2004.
Visit Google Trends to find the latest popularity comparison results.
Did you know?
A 2019 US survey found that 45% of mattresses are sold online. However, a professional analyst noted that the core and materials used in these mattresses are very similar - in fact, it's the way they are sold and marketed that really makes the difference.
Mattress Types
Considering the material is essential when purchasing any type of mattress. The ideal type of mattress can vary depending on the individuals’ needs and preferences. These can include body weight, sleeping position and whether or not you share a bed. However, regarding a mattress in a box, there may be added points to take into consideration.
Foam
Foam is a popular choice with many, particularly memory foam, as it can provide soft cushioning, which may help with pressure relief. Memory foam mattresses can also contour to your body shape and provide extra comfort, especially for side-sleepers. A downside is that foam may not be a popular choice for a cool mattress as it may not offer as much breathability. However, some mattresses include gel to combat overheating and others use completely different materials to produce a cooler mattress.
Regarding bed in a box mattresses, foam is a popular choice as it can be easily compressed and rolled-up without damaging the structure. Unfortunately, foam tends to give off more pungent smells than other materials upon unpackaging; however, this can be dissipated by airing the mattress out.
Pocket Sprung
Pocket sprung mattresses are designed with layers of coils and springs, which make up the majority of the structure. They can sometimes be combined with foam, for added comfort. These mattresses can offer a bouncy yet firm feel, which means they can provide a good amount of stability and support.
Due to this, pocket sprung mattresses are a good choice for heavy people, and front or back sleepers as the firmness can aid with spinal alignment. However, side sleepers or lightweight people may find the firmness too much due to the abundance of springs, although this can be combatted by purchasing a memory foam topper.
Despite being a common mattress type, pocket sprung mattresses are often not a popular choice for a bed in the box as they can be difficult to compress due to the layers of large springs and coils, however, this could change with modern advancements. On the plus side, due to increased airflow throughout the springs, this type of mattress tends to be less strong-smelling when off-gassing.
Hybrid
A hybrid mattress uses multiple layers to combine springs with materials like gel, foam or latex. The springs can offer firm stability whilst the other materials can provide cushioning and softness. Hybrid mattresses are also known for motion isolation due to their individually wrapped coils, making them a good mattress for couples.
Similarly to innerspring mattresses, if a hybrid mattress includes many springs, it can be difficult to compress within a box. Moreover, there have been cases where the springs have failed to expand due to being stored and packaged for long periods of time. However, if the springs expand correctly, their breathability may make off-gassing a quicker process, depending on the amount of foam in the mattress.
Latex
Latex makes for a good natural mattress and could be a suitable choice for the eco-conscious, as latex is a raw material taken from the sap from trees. Aside from being sustainable, it offers elasticity and a bouncy feel whilst providing a good amount of support due to its durability. Latex mattresses can be combined with other materials, which can alter the degree of firmness.
When latex is used for a mattress in a box, it has the least chance of releasing foul odours when off-gassing due to the natural origins of the latex material. However, this does not apply to blended or synthetic latex as they lack the aforementioned natural properties.
Considerations When Buying A Mattress In A Box
A mattress is designed to last for many years; therefore, it's advised to consider all the different options when buying to suit your preferences and requirements. When purchasing a bed in a box, as you cannot try before you purchase, you may need to take extra steps in ensuring the mattress suits your needs, as well as being from a reputable company. Here are some points worth considering.
- Trial and warranty: As you cannot try before buying, the free trial period can prove helpful, with the standard being around 100 nights. You should also check the warranty policy alongside the terms and defects applicable if you need to return it.
- Customer Reviews: Before purchasing, it’s recommended to research the brand and ensure it’s reputable. An excellent way to do this is by looking at customer reviews based on verified purchases.
- Materials: It’s important to understand which materials are used in firm or soft mattresses to suit your preferences. For example, when seeking a mattress for a heavy person, a firm mattress made with springs may provide greater support.
- Foundation: Whether you have a metal bed frame or a box spring platform, you should check that the mattress you are buying fits the base that you want or currently have.
- Return Policy: There’s always a slight risk attached to buying mattresses online; therefore, it’s recommended to explore the ins and outs surrounding return policies, such as dates and any extra hidden costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bed in a box mattress?
A bed in a box mattress is a mattress that is compressed within a bag or box for delivery. It offers a more convenient and less expensive way to purchase a mattress.
Where to buy a bed in a box mattress?
Many brands and companies offer a mattress in a box on their websites. Be careful to check that the brand is reputable; you can do this by reading customer reviews or through specialist third-party sites.
Which mattress in a box is best?
This depends on factors such as your body weight, sleeping position and preferences. However, foam mattresses tend to be more common in a bed in the box due to being easier to compress and roll-up.
