Think that new mattress will only cost a few hundred bucks? Think again. Between delivery fees, setup charges, accessories, and fine-print policies, the hidden costs of buying a mattress can add up fast, turning that “great deal” into a budget buster.
What appears to be a simple purchase often comes with surprises. Here’s what most shoppers don’t see until it’s too late, and how to avoid overpaying for your next bed.
Delivery and Setup Fees
Many retailers advertise free delivery—but there’s often a catch. Free shipping might only apply to basic drop-off at your front door. If you want help carrying the mattress inside, upstairs, or into your bedroom, you’ll likely pay extra.
Want them to set it up on your bed frame? That may cost more. If you need your old mattress hauled away, that could add another $50 to $150 depending on the store.
Always ask: What’s included in delivery? You don’t want surprises on delivery day.
Box Springs and Bed Frames
When you see a mattress price, it usually doesn’t include a box spring, foundation, or bed frame. Some newer mattresses don’t need a box spring, but many still do—especially if you want to keep your warranty valid.
A box spring can cost anywhere from $100 to $300. A basic metal frame might be cheap, but a solid or adjustable frame can run $400 or more. Buying a mattress means buying a whole setup. Plan your budget accordingly.
Here’s a quick guide to bed frames to help with your buying decision.
Mattress Protectors and Bedding
Most mattress companies strongly suggest you use a waterproof protector. Why? Because stains—even small ones—can void your warranty. That’s right: if your mattress gets stained, they may refuse to replace it, even if there’s a defect.
A good mattress protector can cost $50 to $150. Add in sheets, pillows, or a new comforter, and you could tack on another $100 to $300 easily.
If your new mattress is a different size or thickness, your old bedding might not fit. That means starting from scratch with new linens.
Trial Periods and Return Fees
Many companies offer generous trial periods—often 90 to 365 days. But read the fine print. Some charge return shipping. Others charge a restocking fee. And some require you to keep the mattress for a certain number of nights before they’ll take it back.
Returns can also be complicated if you bought from a third-party seller or physical store. You might have to repack it or arrange a time for pickup.
A return that looks “free” can still cost you time, effort, and money.
Extended Warranties
Most mattresses come with a warranty—but they don’t always cover what you think. Normal sagging, wear and tear, or minor defects may not qualify.
That’s why many retailers push extended protection plans. These might cover spills, deeper sagging, or broken zippers. But they usually cost $100 or more and may not be worth it unless you expect heavy use (like in a kid’s room or rental).
Think carefully before adding an extended plan. Often, it’s just another way to increase the total price.
Financing Fees
Many stores offer “0% APR financing” to spread out your payments. That can be helpful if you pay on time and in full before the promo period ends.
But miss a payment or take too long, and you could owe interest on the entire original purchase. Some financing deals have high rates hidden in the fine print.
Do the math before agreeing to financing. Make sure you can pay it off before interest kicks in. You can check out our guide on How to Create a ‘Big Purchase’ Budget to avoid overspending.
Store Markups and Sales Gimmicks
Mattress pricing is confusing on purpose. One store’s “$1,200 mattress” may be nearly identical to another store’s “$699 special.” Different names, same build. And prices can change daily.
Holiday weekend sales are common, but many stores inflate original prices just to offer “half off.” That deal may not be as good as it looks.
Online brands can sometimes offer better prices by skipping the middleman. But even then, check shipping, return policies, and warranty details.
A mattress is one of the most important purchases you’ll make for your home. You’ll spend a third of your life using it. But the real cost isn’t just what’s on the price tag.
Add in delivery, setup, accessories, protection, and potential fees—and that affordable mattress can double in cost before you’re done.
The key is to plan ahead. Ask the right questions. Read the fine print. And don’t let the hidden costs catch you sleeping.
