Updated Nov 21, 2025
A bed-in-a-box mattress differs mainly in delivery and setup from a traditional mattress. It arrives compressed, rolled in a box at your doorstep, whereas traditional mattresses come fully expanded and require bulkier handling.
Choosing a mattress should be like getting a good night’s rest—easy and stress-free. But if you’ve been tossing and turning over whether to buy a bed in a box or a traditional mattress, don’t worry. We’re here to help.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between a bed in a box vs. a traditional mattress so you can easily decide which is right for you and have the dreamiest mattress-buying experience possible.
Delivered right to your door, each bed in a box from Casper offers the perfect balance of comfort and support.
What Is a Bed in a Box?
First things first, what is a bed in a box? Essentially, a bed in a box is a mattress that’s shipped directly to your front door in a compact box. This is unlike the type of traditional innerspring mattress you can find at a local mattress store.
Despite spring mattresses still making up the majority of the mattress market,1 the boxed mattress has made a notable splash in recent years due to its convenience and easy return policies.
Differences Between a Bed in a Box vs. Traditional Mattress
Rather than going to a mattress store to find a new bed, a bed in a box can be purchased with just the click of a button from the comfort of your own home. Then, your new mattress is shipped to you in a rolled, airtight bag tucked inside a box about the size of a mini-fridge. When your bed in a box arrives, you simply unfold the mattress and let it expand on its own.
But convenient delivery and set-up isn’t the only difference between a bed in a box and a traditional mattress. Other differences include:
- Cost
- Quality
- Trial periods
Keep reading as we dive further into the factors that set these mattresses apart.
Delivery and Set-Up
A bed in a box takes the cake when it comes to efficiency. Shipped directly from the manufacturer in an airtight box, your new mattress will blow you away with its low-maintenance setup. Once your package arrives, you simply take the rolled mattress out of the box, lay it flat on your bed frame, and watch it expand to its proper size.
If reenacting the couch-moving scene from Friends isn’t your idea of a good time, a bed in a box might be perfect for you. By eliminating the grunt work of bringing a new mattress home, the bed in a box model gives “low-maintenance” a whole new meaning.
Because your mattress will be sent directly to your door, you don’t have to worry about moving a mattress up a flight of stairs while sweating profusely.
Cost
When it comes to the cost of a mattress, a bed in a box is a great option. They tend to be very affordable, and in some cases, more so than a traditional mattress. You can find a bed in a box from Casper for around as low as $750.
Quality
A box mattress can be made with a variety of materials, including:
- Memory foam – Memory foam mattresses can easily conform to the shape of your body to provide better support during sleep. Because a memory foam mattress also absorbs impact, they reduce motion transfer too (meaning you won’t notice a partner tossing and turning during the night).
- Latex – Latex mattresses are more firm and bouncy than foam mattresses. A latex mattress also doesn’t trap body heat, making them the ideal mattress type for hot sleepers.
Some bed in a box options also offer hybrid combinations of both memory foam and latex, like the Casper Dream Max mattress.
Alternatively, traditional mattresses used to only be made with springs and coils. While a spring mattress will work to provide sleepers with firmness and support, it doesn’t offer the same level of comfort as foam, latex, or hybrid mattresses. Traditional innerspring mattresses also typically require box springs to help maintain their structure over time.
If you switch over from pocket springs to a different mattress type, you’ll feel the difference between your original and your new mattress instantly.
Trial Periods
Fearful of buyer’s remorse? Many bed in a box companies offer a lengthy trial period where you’re able to get acquainted with your new mattress before making a long-term commitment.
In fact, that’s why, at Casper, we offer:
- A 100-night trial period on mattresses.
- A full refund if you don’t absolutely love your new mattress after the 30-Night Adjustment Period.
Which Mattress Is Right for You?
Choose a bed in a box if you value convenience, flexibility, and a modern shopping experience. It’s ideal for people who prefer easy delivery, quick setup, and a generous trial period before committing. A traditional mattress may be a better fit if you like testing beds in person, want help with setup, or prefer a more classic, hands-on buying process. Ultimately, the right choice depends on how you like to shop—and how you like to sleep.
Shopping for a Bed in a Box
Looking for the best mattress in a box to match your sleep style? Whether you want budget-friendly comfort, advanced cooling, or ergonomic support, Casper has options designed to help every kind of sleeper rest easy, including these favorites:
- Casper One: The no-brainer mattress choice. Indulge in an affordable memory foam mattress no matter your budget with the One.
- Casper Snow Max: With our most supportive ergonomics and most innovative cooling features, the Snow Max is the ultimate solution for whatever is keeping you up.
- Casper Dream Max: Ergonomically engineered to help relieve pressure & cradle you all night, the Dream Max is our most supportive mattress for your dreamiest sleep.
Sleep Soundly with a Casper Mattress
When choosing a bed in a box, be sure to choose Casper. With our 100-night trial period and a variety of mattress options, finding your new mattress online couldn’t be easier. Take our mattress quiz to see which Casper mattress best caters to your needs. With Casper, you’ll discover the perfect mattress for your bedroom, whether you’re looking for advanced support like that offered by our Casper Dream Max, or cooling capabilities like those with our Snow Technology. We’ve also got all your sizes covered too, so if you need a California King mattress for the new crib, we got you. A twin mattress for your dorm? Sure thing. Get better sleep with Casper.
FAQs About Regular Mattresses vs. Beds in a Box
How long does a mattress in a box last?
You might be wondering, how long does a mattress last when it comes in a box? A high-quality mattress in a box can last just as long as a traditional bed—typically around 7 to 10 years with proper care. Longevity often depends on materials and usage, but well-made compressed mattresses are built to maintain comfort and support for years of great sleep.
How long should I let a boxed mattress expand before sleeping on it?
Most mattress-in-a-box options can be slept on the first night, but for the best comfort and full expansion, it’s ideal to let your bed sit for 24 to 72 hours. This allows the compressed foam to regain its shape and ensures consistent support and quality for a better night’s sleep.
Do boxed mattresses smell when opened?
Some mattress-in-a-box models may have a slight new-bed scent when first opened. This is normal and comes from the safe compression and packaging process. The smell usually fades within a few hours to a couple of days, leaving you with a clean, fresh sleep surface.
Is it a good idea to buy a mattress in a box?
Buying a mattress in a box is a smart choice for many sleepers who want comfort, convenience, and value. You can easily compare the best options online and have a high-quality mattress delivered straight to your door—no showroom required. It’s an effortless way to upgrade your sleep.
Sources:
- Visual Capitalist. Why Tech is Targeting the $15 Billion Mattress Market. https://www.visualcapitalist.com/tech-targeting-15-billion-mattress-market/
