The mattress foundation you choose to support your bed can have a major impact on the way your bed feels and how long it lasts you. A foundation is important for supporting both your mattress and your sleep.
So, what type of foundation should you choose for your bed?
Don’t sweat it: here are the basics on what you need to know about different mattress foundation types and how they can affect your bed.
What is a Mattress Foundation?
A mattress foundation or bed base is the support system for your bed. It sits beneath the mattress and box spring, providing a solid surface for the bed to rest on.
A box spring is the most popular type, but not all foundations are box springs. Other common types include slatted bed frames and platform beds
Types of Mattress Foundations and Bed Frames
There are many different types of mattress foundations and bed frames. Here are the most common types:
Box Spring – A box spring is a type of foundation that consists of a wooden frame with a series of coiled springs. The springs provide support for the mattress and distribute weight evenly.
Traditional box springs were constructed with actual springs inside the framework, but modern box spring foundations are typically made of foam or other synthetic materials.
Metal Bed Frame – A metal bed frame is a type of foundation that typically consists of a metal grid. The grid provides support for the mattress and box spring and helps to keep them in place.
Unlike a metal platform base, a metal bed frame has four legs and does not provide storage space underneath the mattress.
Slatted Bed Frame – A slatted bed frame is a type of foundation that consists of wooden rails at the head and foot of the bed, with gaps in between. The spaces in the frame allow for airflow and help prevent mold and mildew growth in between the slats
Depending on the height, slatted bed foundations can also offer great under-bed storage space.
Solid Platform Bed – A solid platform bed is a type of foundation that is made from a single piece of wood or other materials. It does not have any rails or spaces between the slats, unlike a slatted bed frame.
A solid platform bed provides a sturdy surface for your mattress and eliminates the need for a box spring.
Unlike a slatted bed frame, with solid platform beds, you don’t have constant airflow through the mattress and therefore can trap heat more easily.
Adjustable Bed Frame – With an adjustable bed frame, you can raise and lower the head and foot of the bed to find the perfect sleeping position. This is a great option for people with chronic pain or other health issues that affect their sleep.
There are many different types of adjustable bed frames, including those with massage features, built-in lights, and more.
As you may have guessed, adjustable bed frames can cost a pretty penny – sometimes even more than your mattress.
Choosing the Best Mattress Foundation
The mattress foundation you choose to support your bed can have a major impact on the way your bed feels and how long it lasts you. A foundation is important for supporting both your mattress and your sleep.
Be sure to choose queen mattress that feels right to you and is within your budget, so you get the most out of your new bed.
If money’s an issue, solid platform beds are a great budget-friendly option, while adjustable bases offer a range of premium features for a higher cost.
Otherwise, visit your local mattress shop and try a few different types of foundation to see what feels best.
No matter which type you choose, remember that it’s important to regularly rotate and flip your mattress so the wear is distributed evenly over time.
