Most mattress companies recommend using a foundation designed specifically for their mattresses in order to provide maximum support, reduce wear-and-tear and keep away mold, mildew mites and other pests from invading your mattress.
By following manufacturer recommendations, foundations help preserve your warranty. Many companies will void protection if you put your new mattress on an improper base.
Box springs
Many mattress companies include a warning on product packaging about mixing mattresses and foundations as it can lead to the early deterioration of both. Furthermore, mixing can void your warranty of the new mattress as old bases can create pits where new mattresses sag into, leaving an unsupportive surface underneath for them to rest on. Some individuals may try using an old box spring instead but it’s important to remember that over time this sagging will damage it further.
Foundation or box spring replacement should take place every eight years; however, this depends on the condition of both mattress and foundation. When damaged or torn box springs become evident it may be time for replacement as well as considering wear-and-tear factors like exposure to humid environments or extreme temperatures that have worn down the foundation over time.
Box springs feature steel coils to support mattresses, making them the ideal choice for innerspring models and hybrid or foam ones. However, these springs might not work as effectively with hybrid or foam mattresses which don’t use innerspring coils – in this instance a platform base or slatted bed frame may be required instead.
Platform bases are simple metal structures designed to support mattresses. Often featuring slatted bottom boards and rails at the top, this bed frame can easily be assembled and moved around your home for use. There are various sizes available so that you can find one suitable for you mattress.
A slatted base resembles a platform bed but uses wooden slats positioned closer together for additional support. They’re lightweight and simple to assemble, though don’t offer as much stability as box springs do. A slatted base may also make adjustable beds possible – it just creates more clutter! Bunkie boards or milk crates may serve as low-cost alternative spring options for beds while offering low-profile appearances compared to box springs.
Divans
When buying a mattress, it’s essential that you consider carefully which type of base or foundation will be most suitable. Both elements work in concert and using an outdated foundation could decrease its life and compromise comfort – not to mention invalidate its warranty!
There are various divan bed bases to meet any budget and need. If unsure which divan to buy, consult a knowledgeable salesperson or read online reviews; also inquire with your mattress manufacturer as to which foundation they recommend for you to buy.
Divans are solid units designed to support mattresses, offering several advantages over wooden or metal slatted bases. Assembling one is easy and they’re delivered in sections for easier movement around your home; in addition, there is an extensive variety of styles and finishes that complement any bedroom design scheme from classic pine and oak to more contemporary leather options.
Divans provide an even surface, which prevents your mattress from sinking between its frame’s slats. You can also get one with firm edges that makes getting into bed easier – but keep in mind it should match up perfectly with your mattress size and shape!
For a luxurious feel, consider investing in a sprung divan base with built-in springs that provide gentle support – these bases even soften the feel of firm mattresses by softening their edges!
People often prefer purchasing a storage divan, with its one or more drawers designed for storing clothes, blankets and other household items. These divans are especially helpful in small spaces as they make use of any wasted space under the bed. Many divans also feature a headboard, enhancing its overall look; others even come equipped with handy pockets to keep bedsheets and pillows neatly folded away.
Platforms
A platform bed is a hybrid bed design, featuring both a mattress foundation and frame to raise it off of the ground. Made of wood, metal or any number of materials – from drawers that reach down to floor level for convenient mattress access – platform beds may cost more than traditional box springs; however, their sleek appearance adds elegance to your bedroom space and negate the need for separate foundations.
A foundation consists of wooden slats or solid frames made of wood that form an effective base for your mattress. Unlike box springs, foundations do not contain metal springs and provide a firm surface on which foam beds can rest comfortably. Most foundations are designed for use within frames; however some companies sell free-standing versions.
Some mattresses, such as innerspring and memory foam mattresses, require a box spring or foundation for proper usage, including innerspring and memory foam beds. Certain models even specify which foundation type must be used in order to fulfill their warranty obligations. Although most mattresses can be used on any platform without issue, it’s always wise to check your manufacturer’s information to be certain using an alternative platform will not nullify your mattress warranty.
Box springs and foundations can sag over time, which is both uncomfortable for sleepers and dangerous for people with mobility issues. If the sagging becomes severe enough, your mattress won’t receive proper support and can lead to back pain. There are ways to stop this from happening; one such method is using a bunkie board – basically an inexpensive wooden slat box spring. These boards are simple to setup and make a cost-effective alternative when it comes to foundations or box springs.
Although most mattresses can be used on any base, some types may perform better when placed on a box spring or foundation than when placed on a platform bed. Memory foam mattresses in particular may not perform as intended when placed on an unforgiving solid or slatted platform bed due to the nature of how memory foam moulds and conforms to body shapes, creating an uncomfortable sleeping surface compared to its usual performance when placed directly against it.
Bunkie boards
If your bed frame features closer-than-recommended slats, a bunkie board may add extra support for your mattress. These wood planks encased in fabric can work similarly to box springs but with less of the bulk.
Bunkie boards can be constructed using plywood or solid wood as their material of choice. While plywood may be more cost effective in terms of affordability, it may not last as well over time; solid wood boards tend to cost more but tend to outlive their cheaper counterparts in terms of longevity and can come in various lengths, widths, thicknesses and colors.
When choosing a bunkie board, take into account both the weight capacity of your mattress and how many people will be sleeping on it. Solid wood tends to be best suited for heavier mattresses while plywood or particle board may work just as well for lighter ones. Furthermore, be aware of your mattress manufacturer’s warranty; using unapproved foundations could void it completely.
Before using an old box spring as a mattress foundation, it’s also wise to inspect its condition carefully. Perform a visual examination to check for bows or cracks in its wooden material; any signs of damage would necessitate replacing it.
Bunkie boards make an excellent alternative to traditional box springs and platform bases, and should always be spaced no closer than 2.75 inches apart on their bases if possible; otherwise they could cut into the mattress’s foundation, leading to lumps and sags over time. You could also try moisture-resistant plywood under your mattress with similar results, though ensure it matches up exactly with its dimensions as your mattress and frame do.
