Do you need a bed, but you don’t want to invest in a mattress? You are on the right page because here we will recommend all the alternatives to a traditional mattress.
We all love comfortable sleep cycles, but sometimes a regular cushion cannot fit your requirements. Finance, space, time, and multiple other preferences could impact your choice of the sleeping surface. So, check the following mattress alternatives and enjoy a satisfactory sleep every night.
1. Hammock
Try a hammock if you want the best alternative for mattresses. It’s a space-saving sleep solution that offers complete comfort. Moreover, a hammock is inexpensive.
A hammock is a perfect choice for small spaces. You can detach it every morning to use the floor space for other activities. Or you can leave the hammock strung up as a seating solution. A hammock is also a decorative object in your living room or bedroom.
Pick a wide hammock that can comfortably cradle your body. There is no use of a sleep surface that cannot prevent falls when you toss and turn.
Pros:
- Unrestricted space-saving ability
- Not prone to mites and bedbugs
- Comfortable space to sit, rest or sleep
- Maintains airflow
- Portable, also useful for outdoor tours
Cons:
- Risks of falling when you are asleep
- Takes time to get used to
- Limits your sleeping postures
2. Pull out sofa bed
A sleeper sofa is also a suitable alternative to mattresses. It comes with an inbuilt bed that you can pull out from under the sitting space.
The pull-out sofa beds are generally available in queen and king sizes. So, you can pick one of them as per your requirements.
Investing in a sleeper sofa is beneficial if you own small space. It could also be perfect for your living room and guest room.
Pros:
- Inexpensive and space-saving
- Versatile can be used for seating and sleeping
- Can accommodate multiple users
Cons:
- Prone to wear and tears after frequent usage
- Challenging to maintain
- Some models are heavy and hence, tricky to relocate
3. Futon sofa
A sleeper sofa and futon sofa are similar. The idea is to use such furniture in the daytime for seating and adjust them at night so that it can act as a comfortable bed. However, there is a difference between these two structures.
You have to flip down the backrest of a futon sofa to create a sleeping surface. On the contrary, the mattress is hidden inside the pull-out sofa bed. So, you have to pull the bed and enjoy comfortable nights.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Reasonably priced
- Accommodates more than one users
Cons:
- Comparatively less durable than a traditional bed
- Thin cushion
4. Day bed
The day beds are comparatively shorter than regular sofas. Plus, most of these beds do not feature a barrier on all the sides.
You can place such a structure near the wall so that you can use it in the daytime. A day bed is also suitable for nighttime.
A day bed is suitable for bachelors, living rooms, and home offices. However, it cannot accommodate tall users. But, a day bed is perfect for average users.
Place some pillows, and a blanket, and it works as good as a regular mattress
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Serves dual purpose; seating and sleeping
- Offers adequate back support
Cons:
- Cannot accommodate more than one user
5. Japanese futon floor mattress
The traditional futon floor mattress is common in Japanese homes. Also known as shikibuton, this mattress is not very thick. So, you might need at least a couple of them for adequate comfort. You can also use a thin mattress on the top of futons to add more support.
Japanese futon mattresses are easy to store. So, you can use the floor space for multiple other activities during the daytime. Therefore, this cushion is perfect for small spaces. Moreover, this sleep measure is reasonably priced.
Pros:
- Offers adequate back support
- Relieves neck, shoulder, and back pain
- Easy to clean
- Long-lasting and highly portable
- Maintains airflow for sweat-free nights
Cons:
- Not suitable if you cannot roll up and store your bed every day
- Not good for users with joint troubles
6. Air mattress
You cannot avoid unplanned sleepovers. An air mattress comes in handy in such situations because it’s space-saving and easy to use.
You can inflate an air mattress within a few minutes and deflate it in the morning.
An air mattress is comfortable because you can control the amount of air as per the required firmness level. Moreover, it’s portable. So, you can use such a sleep solution anywhere in the house.
Pros:
- Inexpensive and portable
- Maintenance is easy
- Comfortable to sleep
- Maintains airflow and keeps you sweat-free
Cons:
- Produces noise if you move
- Prone to tears and punctures
- The air pump could be noisy in some models
7. Camping mat
If you need a pocket-friendly alternative to traditional mattresses, then try a camping mat. It keeps you comfortable as a cushion.
What’s more? Such a mat has insulating abilities. So, it keeps you warm in winters even if you sleep on the floor.
A camping mat is easy to roll and store in the morning. Plus, it’s available in multiple sizes. So, you can try one of them as per your usage and preferences.
Pros:
- Thick, warm, and comfortable
- Easy to use and store
- Perfect for outdoor trips
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons:
- The cushion is comparatively less than regular mattresses
8. The floor
Do you think sleeping directly on the floor could lead to uncomfortable nights? Well, the reality differs. The floor is one of the best alternates for beds and mattresses.
Resting on the ground offers complete support to your back, especially if there is padding below your body.
Futon mats or sleeping bags are perfect if you are not shy about sleeping on the floor. Camping mats and air mattresses also offer adequate comfort when you sleep on the floor.
Pros:
- Improves your blood flow and digestion
- Helpful in back pain
- Keeps your body moisture-free
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Exposes you to dust and insects
- Might not be suitable in winters
9. Futon mat
If you need a lightweight and portable alternative to mattresses, then try a futon mat. You can easily use and store it as per your requirements.
Moreover, such a mat is comfortable because of its latex or cotton layers. A futon mat could also relieve your back pain because it offers adequate support.
Pros:
- No need to use a frame
- Space-saving and portable
- Lightweight, easy to relocate and store
- Provides adequate back support
Cons:
- Not suitable for users with joint problems
- Becomes a daily hassle to roll up the mat and store it
10. Sleeping bag
Are you a minimalist? Then, a sleeping bag could be the best alternative to mattresses. Such a sleeping solution is not only inexpensive but also space-saving and portable.
You might think of a sleeping bag as a temporary measure, but it’s a perfect investment if you stay alone.
The bag is also viable if you own a small apartment. It is comfortable and keeps you warm in winter. However, you can add a yoga mat to make things cozier.
Pros:
- Lightweight, portable, and easy to carry
- Keeps you warm
- Some bags can also accommodate two users
Cons:
- You might need an additional mat
11. Foam sleep pad
A foam sleeping mat is one of the most comfortable alternatives to a mattress. The foam pad is similar to a regular cushion but it’s lightweight, thin, and comparatively more portable.
Still, the mat is comfortable because of its memory foam insert. However, there is one major difference.
A foam sleep pad works well on the floor, but you need a frame for the mattress. Plus, the mats are available in a variety of sizes, unlike the cushions.
Pros:
- Available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses
- Easy to use and store
Cons:
- Prone to tears
- Memory foam tends to go flat after regular usage
12. Mattress topper
Also known as a feather bed, the topper is meant to rest on the top of a mattress. It’s generally filled with down and feathers to ensure your comfort.
Moreover, the topper is lightweight and easy to relocate.
The mattress toppers are generally available between 2 to 4 inches in thickness. But, you can find thicker options as well.
Make sure you invest in a hypoallergenic topper. Or pick something that does not trigger allergic reactions in your body.
Pros:
- Soft and comfortable
- Available in a wide range of thicknesses
- Keeps you warm in the winters
Cons:
- Cleaning could be tricky
- Releases feathers in its surrounding area
13. Organic latex mattress
If you are looking for a hypoallergenic and eco-friendly mattress alternate, then an organic latex cushion could be a perfect choice. It is resistant to mites and bedbugs.
Moreover, a latex mattress also stays safe from molds and mildews. In addition, such a cushion is long-lasting and stays at your service for more than 30 years, especially if you maintain it properly.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly and allergen-free
- Aligns your spine and relieves backache
- Keeps your body cool
- Long-lasting
Cons:
- Some models are expensive
14. Reclining chair
A reclining chair is a temporary sleeping structure for most users, but you can use it as a permanent bed.
Apart from taking comfortable sleep, you can use this chair to read books, watch TV, or enjoy a drink over the weekend.
Pros:
- Reduces and relieves backache
- Can be controlled using a remote or buttons
- Helps to cure snoring
Cons:
- Expensive
- Can only accommodate one user
- Restricts your sleeping postures
15. Straw mattress
If you need an organic alternative to cushion beds, then a straw mattress could be a perfect choice. Made of plant fibers, such a mat is widely used as a traditional sleeping solution.
However, It has sagging issues. So, you should use a straw mattress only for the short term.
A straw mattress keeps you cool and moisture-free. Moreover, it’s lightweight and highly portable. So, you can relocate this mattress from one place to another without much hard work.
You can also take it outdoors for a quick nap.
Pros:
- Easy to use and store
- High insulating ability
- Portable due to low weight
Cons:
- Not very durable
- Creates unwanted dust
16. Wool mattress
The woolen mattress packs three layers of wool for more comfort and softness. Such a build provides adequate support for your spine as well as your back.
Moreover, a woolen mattress is a breathable material to keep your body sweat and moisture-free.
Pros:
- Environmentally-friendly material
- Maintains air circulation and keeps your sweat-free
- High insulation abilities
Cons:
- Tends to sag over the time
Conclusion
Now you know some of the best mattress alternatives. So, you don’t have to face any sleep woes even if your mattress is occupied. You can also try one of the recommendations if you cannot or do not want to purchase a new mattress.
Try a suggested alternate as per your choice and factors like comfort, insulating ability, and breathability. Portability, available space, and budget are the other points to consider. Above all, invest in something that can suffice your requirement of a temporary or permanent sleeping spot.
