For more, watch our interactive video. You can skip to chapters on the different types of mattresses, tips for test driving a mattress, and more. Common claims that haven’t held up in our tests: Foam Layers Make a Better Bed More innerspring mattresses now include foam on top. But the foam is often too thin to make a difference on some of the hybrid models. Hybrid innerspring models that scored well in our tests had a foam layer several inches thick, though performance still varied. More Coils, the Better The better innerspring models we tested had 600 to 1,000 coils. But even if one mattress has more coils than another, the coils could be made of thinner-gauge metal. You’ll also hear about coil variations such as Bonnell (hourglass type), continuous wire, and individually pocketed springs. None of those is inherently superior. Gel Provides a Cooler Sleep Some mattresses (noted in our Ratings) have a layer of gel-infused foam that’s supposed to provide a cooling effect.
But that layer is buried beneath other layers. While our tests have shown that innerspring mattresses containing gel did tend to sleep slightly cooler, the reverse was true with gel-infused foam beds. Extra Lumbar Support Helps Back Sleepers A special lumbar-support zone is one of many ways manufacturers try to differentiate their product lines. But there’s no guarantee that it makes any real difference, and it hasn’t shown significant benefits in our tests. Forget About Comparison Shopping If you like a mattress at one store and ask elsewhere for something similar, you're likely to be steered toward a same-brand mattress claimed to have the same construction, components, and firmness. But they’re probably not the same. Mattress makers offer some lines nationally, but when those brands are sold through major chains such as Macy's, Sears, and Sleepy’s, they're for lines exclusive to those chains. And manufacturers don't publish a directory of comparable mattresses.
When we went to three bedding chains and asked for mattresses similar to those we’d bought at three department stores, five of the six were way off the mark. So use our Ratings as a guide, and insist on the precise make and model that scored well in our tests. Also check our Ratings of mattress brands and stores, based on subscriber surveys. If possible, lie on any mattress that you’re considering. Wear loose clothes and shoes you can slip off. Make yourself comfortable, and shoo away the salesperson if you’re feeling pressured. Salespeople should expect you to take your time. Spend at least five or ten minutes on each side and on your back (your stomach, too, if that's a preferred sleeping position). Panelists who took beds home for a month-long trial rarely changed the opinion they formed after the first night. Shopping online or at a warehouse club? Tryouts aren’t usually an option, so checking return policies before you buy is extra important. Make sure the store offers a full refund or credit toward another mattress.
Return periods, often called “comfort guarantees,” range from a couple of weeks to 120 days. Some retailers, including Macy’s and Sears, charge a 15-percent restocking fee. Costco and some online sellers provide free pickup if you want a refund or exchange, but otherwise, you’ll have to pay for it—or cart the mattress to the store. And you’ll be responsible for any damage. Once you’ve settled on a model, try to bring the price down. Many businesses, such as warehouse clubs, have fixed prices and won’t budge. But for retailers that do negotiate—particularly specialty chains—huge markups allow them to lower prices by 50 percent or more during their frequent sales. Our recommendation: Any time of year, insist on a sale price you’ve seen for the mattress you know you want, and don’t be afraid to walk out if you feel you’re getting a raw deal. Don’t Be Bullied Into Buying a Box Spring You might not need it. For an innerspring mattress, the box spring (also called a “foundation”) is a wood frame enclosing stiff wire and covered with fabric to match the mattress.
For foam or adjustable-air mattresses, it’s a box several inches high. If you're switching to a foam or adjustable-air bed from an innerspring, you'll need a boxy foundation that lacks springs and wire. Otherwise, if your box spring isn't broken and is still structurally sound, consider keeping it and saving money (roughly $150 to $300 for a queen-size). One caveat: Some brands require you to buy their box spring to receive full warranty coverage. It can range from 10 to 25 years and covers only manufacturing defects such as sagging and loose or broken coil wires. Coverage is frequently prorated, meaning that it decreases over time. Never accept delivery without inspecting the mattress (and the box spring, if you buy one) for stains and other damage. Also be sure that the mattress has a label that states “all-new material” before you send the driver on his way. If it’s not there, refuse delivery. And keep it on afterward in case you do have to file a warranty claim in the future.
New (3) from $94.89 Zinus 14 Inch Elite SmartBase Mattress Foundation / for Big & Tall / Extra Strong Support / Platform Bed Frame / Box Spring Replacement / Sturdy / Quiet Noise Free / Non-Slip, TwinDetailsSignature Sleep Contour 8 Inch Independently Encased Coil Mattress with Low VOC CertiPUR-US… DetailsTwin Size SafeRest Premium Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector - Vinyl Free FREE Shipping on orders over . Zinus delivers revolutionary sleep products conveniently to your front door via FedEx/UPS. Memory Foam 6 Inch Mattress Memory Foam 8 Inch Mattress Viscolatex 10 Inch Memory Foam Mattress iCoil 12 Inch Euro Box Top Spring Mattress iCoil 13 Inch Deluxe Euro Box Top Spring Mattress Easy To Assemble SmartBase Mattress Foundation MyEuro Wooden Slats Mattress Foundation SmartBase Deluxe Mattress Foundation SmartBase Elite Mattress Foundation SmartBase Premium Mattress Foundation The Next Generation Bed Frame - The SmartBase Elite Mattress Foundation by Zinus.
The SmartBase Elite eliminates the need for a box spring as your memory foam, spring or latex mattress should be placed directly on the SmartBase. Uniquely designed for optimum support and durability the strong steel mattress support has multiple points of contact with the floor for stability and can support up to 4400lbs. of evenly distributed weight. With plastic caps to protect your floors and an innovative folding design to allow for easy storage, the SmartBase is well designed for ease of use. Worry free 5-year limited warranty. Another comfort innovation from Zinus. 38 x 75 x 14 inches 32.1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies) Amazon only ships this item within the contiguous 48 United States. Other Sellers on Amazon may ship this item to Alaska, Hawaii and US Territories. This item is not eligible for international shipping. 4.7 out of 5 stars #3,284 in Home and Kitchen (See Top 100 in Home and Kitchen) #171 in Home & Kitchen > Furniture > Bedroom Furniture > Beds, Frames & Bases > Bed Frames
Manufacturer’s warranty can be requested from customer service. Click here to make a request to customer service. If you are a seller for this product, would you like to suggest updates through seller support? Would you like to tell us about a lower price? Compare to Similar Items Zinus 14 Inch SmartBase Mattress Foundation / Platform Bed Frame / Box Spring Replacement / Quiet Noise-Free / Maximum Under-bed Storage, Queen Zinus 18 Inch Premium SmartBase Mattress Foundation / 4 Extra Inches high for Under-bed Storage / Platform Bed Frame / Box Spring Replacement / Strong / Sturdy / Quiet Noise-Free, Full Zinus 14 Inch Easy To Assemble SmartBase Mattress Foundation / Platform Bed Frame / Box Spring Replacement, King See questions and answers 5 star78%4 star13%3 star5%2 star2%1 star2%See all verified purchase reviewsTop Customer ReviewsExcellent with platform modification|Although I did not like the notion of the multi level supports, in the end it didn't matter.
Solid, quiet, and well finished for the price. Packaged well in a surprisingly small box for a king frame. No brainer, no instructions necessary assembly takes about 1/2 hour. The under space is greatly appreciated. I purchased it for the ultimate Perfect Cloud Elegance Gel-Pro 12 Inch Memory Foam Mattress (King Size) - Amazon Exclusive Model Featuring Luxurious Fabrics & Double Layer of Visco Gel Cool Design - 25 Year Warranty reviewed separately - great combo with a ridiculous amount of due diligence. DO NOT USE YOUR OLD BOX SPRINGS FOR A MEMORY FOAM MATTRESS!I did not want wooden slats or the wire frame versions. I was not going to mess around with this investment.The packaging on my mattress said to place it on a flat surface or on bed slats not more than 5" apart. These narrow 3/4" square tube slats are 5 &3/4" apart, so I was suspicious. I experimented for review purposes. The photos were taken from below the bed while my wife was lying on it. You can clearly see the scalloped sagging between the "slats" and the foam coming down to the lower supports.
I suspected this ahead of time so I got 2 sheets of 1/4" Luan. Its like paneling - very light, stiff yet flexible. They will cost you about $30. Have the store cut them for you 37&3/4" X 78&3/4" and they will fit within the perimeter of the king frame. Just round the corners a little. I used black Gorilla tape to secure it in a dozen or so places. It matches very well - not that you will ever really see it again. I definitely felt increased support and have the peace of mind I'm doing the right thing for my investment. The mattress I got has a "rubberized" non-slip bottom and it is actually very difficult to slide on the platform.Yep- even so I gave it 5 stars. I could not find anything better for my purposes and I'm very pleased with the end result.Don't/Can't Stub your toes or gash your knees!| See all customer images Most Recent Customer ReviewsSearch Customer Reviews Set up an Amazon Giveaway Learn more about Amazon Giveaway See and discover other items: twin bed mattresses