Does the Foundation of a Mattress Matter?

Benefits

• Foundations provide support and stability for the mattress and keep it from sagging. It will prevent damage to the mattress by ensuring it will not bend and damage the coils. A foundation in good condition will also help maximize the life of the mattress. Using the proper foundation will ensure that the mattress will provide the support and comfort advertised by the manufacturer. Additionally, a foundation adds height to a bed so that it is easier to get in and out of.

Considerations

• Many mattress warranties will be voided if a coordinating foundation is not used. Using an old foundation will reduce the lifespan of your mattress by half. If your mattress warranty does not require the use of a foundation, ensure your existing one is free of fabric tears and bent or broken wires and frames. Measure your existing foundation so the new mattress will fit on top.

Box Spring

• A box spring is made of strong, thick wire twisted into modules or to create coils, which is a common type of foundation used to absorb movement and provide stability for the mattress. A thick padded fabric is laid on top of the wires to prevent them from poking through and tearing the mattress. The support system is enclosed in a wood frame and covered with fabric to match the mattress. Typically there is a thin fabric on top that keeps the mattress from sliding.

Platform

• A very inexpensive type of foundation is a wood platform. Constructed of only wood and screws, the platform is then covered with cardboard for a solid top surface and fabric that matches the mattress. While a platform foundation is very sturdy and supportive, it does not flex and therefore provides a very rigid sleeping surface.

Slats

• Some mattress warranties allow the use of wooden slats instead of a foundation. The slats should be placed on slats no more than 2.4 inches wide with 1.6 inches between each slat to provide proper support and ventilation. These slats should be fixed for innerspring mattresses and should be flexible for memory foam mattresses.