Foundations Vs Box Springs Vs Platform Beds
The most well-known mattress foundation is the box spring. Its a cloth-covered bed base made of a wooden frame and springs or metal rods in a grid pattern in the center. Originally designed to support innerspring mattresses, the springs inside of a box spring provide give to the mattress on top. A box spring is typically placed on a wooden or metal bed frame thats connected to a headboard and footboard.
With the emergence of new mattress types, manufacturers have moved away from box springs in favor of foundations. Foundations are reinforced slats that support the mattress and protect it from falling through the base. Typically, theyre a cloth-covered box made of wood with wooden slats on the sides and a flat board on top. Foundations pair with any type of mattress. Like box springs, foundations are usually placed on a wooden or metal bed frame thats connected to a headboard and footboard.
The third type of base is called a platform bed. A platform bed is a frame thats solid or has a built-in slat system, eliminating the need for a box spring. Its a clean, modern look that theoretically works for all mattress types. Platform beds come in many styles, from minimalistic, solid wood varieties to those complete with upholstered headboards and footboards.
Is It Okay To Put Memory Foam On The Floor
I get this question a lot: Is it ok to put a memory foam mattress directly on the floor? The simple answer is yes. Why? Because these mattresses need a solid, uniform bottom, and a floor provides that. The floor functions like a foundation.
Now, this will be a very low-profile bed because you don’t have the elevation that a foundation and frame would give you. This means getting out of bed will be a bit difficult. However, many people do this, particularly folks who are just starting out and trying to save some money.
Before Foregoing a Mattress Foundation . . .
Be sure to check your mattress’ warranty to determine whether it is affected or voided by not using a traditional foundation. If this is the case, you should consider using a base covered by your warranty.
Best Adjustable Memory Foam Mattress Bases In 2020
Adjustable bases are increasing in popularity these days, particularly among couples who deal with snoring or individuals with health issues. There are several adjustable foundation manufacturers out there today, and each one offers up a number of products designed to provide you with a customizable sleeping surface. Remember, though: not all memory foam mattresses are designed to be used with an adjustable foundation, so once again, make sure you check with the manufacturer of your mattress before you go this route.
You can read our guide to finding the best adjustable beds here.
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Choose A Mattress Foundation
Once youve identified your sleeping style and optimal mattress type, find a mattress foundation that best supports you and your mattresss needs. A mattress foundation can have a major impact on how well you sleep.
While weve already outlined which mattress foundations are most compatible with certain types of mattresses, also consider the following:
- Aches or pains In general those who experience daily back or neck pain may benefit from a mattress that provides a firm surface to ensure extra support. A saggy or soft mattress may elicit a few more painful early-morning mutterings.
- Available space If your bedroom is stereotypical New York very small with limited space consider choosing a metal bed foundation or a bunkie board. Both foundations fit well in tight spaces. Those with room to stretch can opt for something more opulent like a platform or adjustable foundation.
- Aesthetic Depending on your desired aesthetic, the height and look of a mattress foundation can transform a space. A wooden mattress foundation is optimal for a rustic vibe, while a platform bed evokes modern relaxation.
- Durability The longevity of your mattress foundation matters. As box springs are known to rupture or tear, you may question how long do box springs last? The coils may also break free from the fabric, causing discomfort far more torturing than a pea. Instead, when looking for longevity, opt for a slatted mattress foundation. Metal foundations also stand up to the test of time.
Solid Platform Bed Frame
Platform beds use one solid surface that accomplishes the same goal of a box spring foundation, rendering them unnecessary. As a result, platform bed frames are lower to the ground than a traditional mattress, fulfilling a clean, modern aesthetic.
However, older sleepers or sleepers who suffer from joint pain might struggle to get in and out of this lower bed frame. In that case, a box spring can be helpful to raise the mattress.
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Best Memory Foam Mattress Foundation: Frequently Asked Questions
When compiling information on how to choose the best type of mattress or mattress foundation for our needs, we often make good and bad decisions. Here are some of the more common questions we have been asked regarding memory foam mattress foundations.
1. Why cant I use a box spring foundation with my memory foam mattress?
A memory foam mattress is designed to support your entire body correctly. It is essential that it lies flat when in use. You could use a box spring, but the trouble is that it could sink with the pressure of the mattress, particularly in the area of it that is taking most of your body weight. However, assuming that the box spring is new and provides a hard, flat surface for the memory foam mattress, then you can use it. Trouble is, some people put the memory foam mattress on their old box spring so the mattress cannot lie flat thats the issue, and why we do not recommend a box spring foundation.
2. What is the best type of memory foam mattress foundation?
Try not to use a solid board or a floor. You can use a mattress on the floor, the lack of airflow can lead to mold growth between the mattress and the floor. Any mattress needs a flow of air around it to keep it cool and keep it fresh. We dont recommend a box spring unless it is new with a flat, firm top. The memory foam mattress foundations we recommend are the metal frame or slatted wood types, where there will be a good flow of air all round.
- Zinus Upholstered Diamond
Memory Foam Pros And Cons
In addition to the unique feel of the foam, memory foam mattresses have many other specific qualitiessome of which make people love them, and some of which can turn people off. There are definitely people out there who adore memory foam, and others who cant stand it. In addition, there are people who love some qualities of memory foam, but could do without others. When talking about memory foam, it is therefore important to address both commonly reported benefits and commonly reported complaints.
Memory Foam Pros
Provides Pressure Relief: Memory foam contours to the body, using your own body heat and pressure to conform to your shape. This can provide relief in areas of the body we put the most pressure on during sleep, such as the hips, shoulders, and neck. Putting regular, disproportionate pressure on those parts of the body can cause pain upon waking, as well as trouble getting to sleep and staying asleep.
For some people, especially those with joint pain or arthritis, memory foams contouring qualities can reduce pain and discomfort by evenly distributing weight and taking the stress off of common pressure points.
Hypoallergenic: For people with allergies, one major benefit of memory foam mattresses is that they tend to be hypoallergenic. Because of their dense structure, memory foam mattresses are less likely to attract and accumulate allergens, such as dust mites, mold, and other common irritants.
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Think About Your Space
If you have a small bedroom, consider choosing a less invasive bed frame and mattress foundation. A metal or solid foundation are both sleek options that wont take up very much room. If you have more space to play with, you may consider a more robust frame or foundation, like an adjustable foundation or a platform bed.
Need more help figuring out what bed size will best suit your space? Check out our guide to mattress sizes.
Best Wood Slat Memory Foam Mattress Foundations In 2020
A wood slat memory foam mattress foundation is exactly what it sounds like a platform constructed of wooden slats. However, it is important to realize that not all of these foundations are created equally. If the slats are too far apart, the foam can sag through the openings and diminish the integrity of the foam. If your existing platform has slats that have gaps of three inches or more, you will need to add some pressboard or plywood for support. The best width is two inches, and you should be able to find this information easily when making a purchasing decision.
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How To Find The Best Box Spring For A Memory Foam Mattress
In this article, we will discuss the following bed foundations:
You will also find information about whether or not it is okay to put your memory foam mattress on the floor, how to protect your foam mattress, and the differences between memory foam and latex.
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Lovers of foam mattresses, rejoice: There are so many options for you to choose from today. The only thing to remember as you start looking for your next perfect foam mattress is that not all types of foam are created equal.
Many offer similar benefits such as resistance to allergens and generally good pressure-relieving abilities. But different types of foam mattresses will have different feels depending on the material they’re made from and the production process.
Below, we’re breaking down the various types of foam you can find in a mattress so you can choose the one that’s right for you.
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What Causes Mattresses To Sag
A memory foam mattress typically sags either from defective foam that degrades quickly or from improper support for the mattress. We recommend a mattress warranty that covers 10 years or more to protect against defects and a good quality foundation for your memory foam mattress to ensure its well-supported.
The Pragma Memory Foam Mattress Foundation
The Pragma memory foam mattress foundation is the only one of its kind, and it proves to be one of the best out there. This one is a foldable metal foundation that is perfect for infrequent use, but it is strong enough to be your everyday support for a memory foam mattress, too. The metal strands are close enough together to provide the needed support, and thanks to its ease of use, this is by far the best foundation for a memory foam mattress of its type. It arrives in a small box, which can be a bit confusing at first, but all you have to do is unfold it to set it up. It is perfect for guest beds that you need to put away after use, but it is strong enough and supportive enough to be your main mattress support, too.
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Best Modern Mattress Foundation: Zoma Foundation
The Zoma Foundation is made to be a perfect pair to the comfortable Zoma mattress. But what we like about the Zoma Mattress Foundation is how its simple and sleek design works for any mattress .
Warranty
Similar to other products our list, this foundation is marketed as easy to assemble and is sent directly to your home at no extra cost to you. When you receive the foundation, simply take it out of the box, connect the corners, screw in the legs , and unroll the upholstered slats across the top.
The Zoma Foundation has wooden slats spaced perfectly apart to provide excellent support to you and your mattress. The legs can be added to turn the foundation into an all-in-one bed set or you can remove them to place the foundation on a metal bed frame or inside an existing bed set.
The Zoma Foundation comes with free shipping and a 1-year warranty.
While the slats are wider than usual, theres still plenty of room for air to slip between them and wick away accumulated moisture and heat. This keeps the mattress feeling cool and comfortable and prevents mold from growing. The beds side rails keeps the mattress from slipping.
While the Vaya Platform is designed for use specifically with the Vaya Mattress or Vaya Hybrid, any mattress can be placed on its supportive surface. A memory foam, latex, traditional innerspring, or hybrid mattress can all feel comfortable on the beds uniform surface.
Leggett & Platt Fashion Bed Group Murray Platform Bed
The Leggett & Platt Murray Platform bed is a simple and stylish solution to your memory foam mattress foundation needs. It comes in a variety of sizes, and it offers up traditional flair at an affordable price. Although it is a bare bones platform box, it is easy to assemble. The solid platform is suitable for improving the longevity of your memory foam mattress since there are no slats or wires for your mattress to rest on. Reviewers say that despite the low price and simple profile, it holds up quite well. They also appreciate the moderate height that the platform gives to their mattresses.
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Do I Need A Bed Frame
If you have the proper support base for your mattress, you dont necessarily need a bed frame. Headboards and footboards are mostly decorativethey dont support the bed.
If your mattress is resting on the correct foundation, that is all you need however, if you have a slatted foundation attached to your bed frame, you will not be able to separate the base from the framethe two must stay together.
For the most part, the frame is optional, but the base the mattress rests on, is not. You will need to have the right base for support and to preserve the life of your mattress.
Consider Style And Design
Many foundations will be covered by a bed skirt or other bedding materials, which makes this factor less relevant, but there are some beautiful bed frames that can really serve as a statement piece to your bedroom.
Even if style is not top on your list, youll definitely want to make sure your foundation fits your mattress and fits in your room. If youre planning to use an existing headboard, make sure you map out the dimensions to see if it will still work with your new foundation.
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What’s Special About Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam is special because it adjusts to the exact contours of your body and bounces back slowly .
Pros of memory foam mattresses:
- Ideal for back and side sleepers because in these positions, memory foam aids spine and neck-bone alignment and provides better hip and shoulder comfort than traditional mattresses.
- Ideal for couples who are light sleepers, as movement on one side of the bed will hardly be felt on the other.
- Ideal for people with allergies, as memory foam is hypoallergenic and dense enough to keep dust mites, dirt, and bacteria from penetrating the mattress.
I bought a Zinus Memory Foam mattress back in 2012, and it’s still going strong! The odor was minimal upon opening, and the foam has proven durable.
Best Bed Frame For Memory Foam Mattress
With a memory foam mattress, its best to use a slatted or solid mattress foundation. If you go with a slatted foundation, the slats should be no further than 2.75 inches apart. Any further apart and youll need to buy extra slats or a bunkie board to create a more stable surface for your memory foam mattress.
Modern platform beds are another good bed frame for memory foam mattresses. Platform beds are essentially just a more decorative mattress foundation, as they often contain features like built-in headboards or under-bed storage drawers. When you opt for a platform bed, you can skip the extra foundation and save money.
Since memory foam beds are so flexible, they also pair great with adjustable bed bases to promote a luxury nights sleep.
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It Is Okay To Put A Mattress Directly On The Floor
While the floor is a sturdy and supportive surface, its also cold and dirty. Placing your mattress directly on the floor also hinders your beds breathability, meaning your mattress is more likely to trap heat, sweat, dust, and other bacteria. Its also easier for bugs and other pests to reach your bed when on the floor.
We recommend placing your mattress on a foundation to keep it off of the ground.
Do You Need A Box Spring Or A Solid Foundation With A Foam Mattress
All you need for your foam mattress is a solid base. Closely laid wooden slats, a metal base, a bunkie board, or even the floor will all do just fine in place of a box spring. That said, if your box spring is rigid and firm , it should be okay to use with a memory foam or latex mattress.
Typical foundations on the market today are either steel frame and steel frame/wood slat combinations or come with a nice zippered cover, and a solid wood top or even tacked cardboard. They are ideal for memory foam or latex mattresses because they provide a solid, uniform bottom for the foam cores. The less give you have, the better.
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