I've been in the mattress industry over a decade and the #1 question I hear from people is, "What type of foundation or support base should I use with my memory foam or latex mattress? As most of you know, a foundation is the support base or mechanism that sits underneath a mattress. Both memory foam and latex mattresses require a solid, uniform foundation to work properly. If you currently have an older box spring foundation, definitely read on. The Two Types of Foundations Two Basic Types of Mattress Foundations on the MarketThere are two basic types of mattress foundations in the mattress world today: box springs and foundations. Box springs are, for the most part, a combination of wood and steel springs that act like shock absorbers for a traditional innerspring mattress. Foundations are a more solid structure, for use with memory foam or latex mattresses, and are typically a solid wood top or wood slatted system with a cover. Now, older box springs, typically ones that are over 10 years old, have too much give with their spring systems, and are not a good support base for memory foam mattresses.
If you have an existing box spring, it is less than 10 years old and still in good shape, test it by pushing against the springs in several spots. Make sure the entire box spring has the same consistency in feel. If it’s rigid and firm, with an inch or less of give, then it should be OK to use with a memory foam mattress or latex mattress. If not, then you’re going to have to purchase a mattress foundation. This foundation comes in all sizes. It's perfect for memory foam and latex mattresses. I've tested it myself. 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. This wood slat foundation is super sturdy at a great price. Assembled height is about ten inches off the floor, so with mattress it sits at a nice height off of floor.
I had a 10-inch mattress on mine. Not too low and not too high. Easy to get in and out. Roll on Wood Slat Foundation Wood Slat Mattress FoundationsWood slat foundations work well too, as long as the slats are close enough together. We like to see the slats no more than 3” apart or less, preferably 2” apart. You’ll need to measure or make sure with a retailer that the slats are close enough together. Otherwise, you’ll need to put a ½” to ¾” cut plywood or pressboard over the slats to create that solid, uniform bottom (these boards will typically be in two cuts that you’ll butt together, the bigger the mattress you have). Foldable Metal FoundationsI recently tested the Pragma bed platform with both a memory foam and a latex mattress. The platform worked beautifully with both types. It unfolds easily and folds right back up in seconds to store. The metal support strands are close enough together to provide that much needed congruous support. This foundation is great for guest beds that need to be put away after use but would also work well for a main mattress with long term use.
I highly recommend this platform foundation. It comes in a surprisingly small box, because it is collapsable. It is lightweight which makes it easy to move (as you'll see in the video at right) so is great for storage. 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. Because these mattresses needs 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. 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. Make sure to check your mattress' warranty to determine whether it is affected/voided by not using a traditional foundation. This is sometimes the case. Adjustable Base ShipShape Assembly Video Which adjustable base would I recommend?
By far, the ones manufactured by Leggett and Platt. They are durable, last a long time, are backed by a good warranty, and are built with quality components and craftsmanship. And, if my word isn't enough for you, the leading memory foam mattress company (which I dare not name because of their trademark restrictions, just think of the glass of wine test on the mattress) uses these adjustable bases almost exclusively with their models. Plus, I own one (the ShipShape adjustable base), and in four years I haven't had one problem with it, and I've moved twice in that time.What amazed me the most when I received mine (and during my moves), was how easy it was to assemble and disassemble. They were really thinking when they had the consumer in mind in this area. Check out the video at right. How to Choose a Good Memory Foam MattressHow to choose a memory foam mattress when there are so many choices out there? Good Advice for a Latex Mattress Foundation Pinzon Overfilled Microplush Mattress Pads Starting at
Ultra-soft mattress pads sewn with microplush fabric and overfilled for extra comfort.DetailsSoft-Fit® Knitted Contour Sheets (2pk), 35x85x14 FREE Shipping on orders over . Deluxe, horizontal, cross-cut, foam mattress Drive Medical Therapeutic 5 Zone Support Mattress 210 denier nylon cover reduces friction and shear, and is water resistant and vapor permeable The Drive Medical Therapeutic 5 Zone Support Mattress is a deluxe, horizontal, cross-cut, 5 zoned foam mattress which provides comfort, support and pressure redistribution. It comes with a best in class, 2-way stretch cover that reduces friction and shear, and is water resistant and vapor permeable, ensuring user comfort. Deluxe foam mattress with convoluted to layer reduced pressure. High resilient firm foam base to provide support and comfort. Deluxe nylon cover is durable, zippered, waterproof and meets California Flame Retardant Standards. Deluxe nylon cover reduces friction and shear. 80 x 38 x 6 inches ;
Shipping Weight: 18.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies) Domestic Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S. and to APO/FPO addresses. For APO/FPO shipments, please check with the manufacturer regarding warranty and support issues. International Shipping: This item can be shipped to select countries outside of the U.S. Learn More Shipping Advisory: This item must be shipped separately from other items in your order. Additional shipping charges will not apply. California residents: Click here for Proposition 65 warning. Item model number: 15019 Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #75,041 in Health & Personal Care (See Top 100 in Health & Personal Care) in Home & Kitchen > Furniture > Bedroom Furniture > Mattresses & Box Springs > Mattresses Manufacturer’s warranty can be requested from customer service. Click here to make a request to customer service. Legal DisclaimerActual product packaging and materials may contain more and different information than what is shown on our website.
We recommend that you do not rely solely on the information presented and that you always read labels, warnings, and directions before using or consuming a product. Please see our full disclaimer below. See questions and answers 5 star60%4 star21%3 star14%2 star5%See all verified purchase reviewsTop Customer ReviewsStarts Out Comfortable But Tends To Sink InProblem solvedGreat for Hospital Beds!!! Great MatressBetter Than The One In The Hospital... for a couple of month at first it was like wow how great it is and now it's still ...Highest Rated Hospital Bed Mattress...Replaced horrible innerspring hospital mattress Most Recent Customer ReviewsSearch Customer Reviews Set up an Amazon Giveaway Learn more about Amazon Giveaway See and discover other items: mattress base Disclaimer: While we work to ensure that product information is correct, on occasion manufacturers may alter their ingredient lists. Actual product packaging and materials may contain more and/or different information than that shown on our Web site.