You have two choices to make when you design your bedroom: what mattress you want and what bed frame (and foundation option) you prefer. While customers often think about the aesthetic elements of bed frames when shopping for their rooms, there are also structural elements to consider. Your bed frame will determine whether you need a box spring and whether you can use the latest technology to adjust your mattress to the perfect angle.
Find Your Perfect Mattress Foundation
Explore mattress foundations in-person and get help finding your perfect fit with BlvdHome, today!
See Our LocationsThis guide will cover everything you need to know to choose a mattress and foundation. Use this information to find a bed that looks amazing and is just as comfortable to sleep on.
Comparing Mattress Foundation Options
The first thing to know when evaluating mattress and foundation options is that you don’t always need a box spring to have a strong mattress foundation. Certain beds are built specifically for box springs, while others are designed to just accommodate the mattress. Learn the terminology when you are shopping for beds so you can choose the perfect products for your needs.
Platform Beds
A platform bed is designed to support mattresses without a box spring. It is both a platform for the mattress and a bed frame that you can sleep on. Platform beds usually have a lower profile, which can give rooms a modern feel. These beds are also ideal for small rooms because the bed won’t take up too much space.
Platform beds are ideal for people who are okay with a low-profile mattress foundation and who do not want to buy a box spring. Most mattress types can be used on platform beds, so you aren’t limited by the material, size, or brand.
➥ Featured Foundation: Signature Design by Ashley® Cielden Two-Tone Queen Panel Bed
Shop this Platform Bed from Signature Design by Ashley®
This Signature Design by Ashley® panel platform bed is a great example of a bed that does not need a box spring. You can place the mattress right on top of the wooden slats and get the support you need. The bed is a little lower to the ground than most standard options, but this is intentional and reflects contemporary design styles. The lower bed frame design can make rooms feel larger, even if they are already big enough to accommodate a king-size bed.
Though it is not needed in these foundations, you can also choose to add a box spring for added height.
Box Springs and Standard Foundations
If you do not choose a platform bed, you will likely need to purchase a box spring or standard bed foundation along with your mattress. These are designed to provide support for the mattress so it doesn’t sink into the bed frame. If you find a bed frame that is easy to take apart (usually by dismantling rails), then there is a chance you will need a box spring because there aren’t any slats.
Did You Know?
The term box spring is somewhat misleading in modern times. These support systems are less likely to be made with springs, and instead are foundations designed to serve the same purpose. You can still use the term box spring to describe what you need, but the foundation might not have any springs when it arrives.
Available in standard heights like 7.5” and higher, low profile sizes between 4.5”-6.5”, and even ultra low profile foundations which prop up your mattress 3” or less, these are the widest known foundation types on the market.
Along with providing support, box springs also contribute to airflow. They can pull heat away from the mattress so you have a cooler sleep experience. Many innerspring mattresses do well with box springs because they work together to remove hot air from the people sleeping on them. This foundation option will also help elevate the bed, which is easier for taller people and sleepers with mobility issues.
Still looking for the answer to "Do I need a box spring?" Luckily, we've also answered this question and more about box springs and foundations in this quick video:
➥ Featured Foundation: Beautyrest® 9" Queen Standard Foundation
Shop this Mattress Foundation from Beautyrest®
This Beautyrest mattress foundation is a great example of a modern foundation that serves the same purpose as a box spring. It is nine inches high and can accommodate most beds. The non-skid top keeps your mattress in place, even with the elevation. This is a wood foundation that is designed to last and won’t wear out over the years like a traditional box spring.
Adjustable Bases
There is another option if you feel like a traditional platform or panel bed it’s right for you. This is for those who are in need of a more customizable experience. An adjustable bed base is an option that does not use a box spring and either allows for manual adjustments or mechanically moves after being plugged into the wall. You can find adjustable bases in a variety of sizes and designs depending on your bed needs.
Memory foam mattresses work best for adjustable bases. These mattresses are designed to be flexible and can handle the daily adjustment of these bases. Some hybrid mattresses can also be used for adjustable bases, but these are less common.
Did You Know?
You shouldn't use an innerspring mattress on an adjustable base, as it can damage the mattress and coils, which will worsen the sleep experience.
→ Learn more: Are Adjustable Beds Worth It?
➥ Featured Foundation: BedTech BT2000 Queen Adjustable Foundation
Shop this Adjustable Base from BedTech
This adjustable base comes with head and foot adjustments, allowing you to find the perfect angle for your comfort needs. It has one programmable memory position, so your favorite spot is always accessible. Don’t worry if the power goes out, this adjustable base has a battery box that will return it to the flat position. It also comes with a built-in flashlight.
What Mattress and Foundation Should I Choose?
There is no perfect answer as to the best choice for a mattress and foundation. Some people might prefer to have a traditional mattress and box spring because they enjoy the extra elevation and feel supported. Others might actively seek out a bed foundation for memory foam mattress models that don’t require box springs. Before you run out and buy a king-size box spring, make sure it’s the right call for your sleep needs. This chart can help you clearly understand the differences.
| Feature | Platform Bed | Panel Bed | Adjustable Base |
|---|---|---|---|
| Do I need a Box Spring? | Not needed, as this is the bed’s foundation | Likely, will need a box spring or foundation | Not needed, as this is the bed foundation |
| Mattress Options | It can support any mattress type. | It can support any mattress type. | Must use a memory foam mattress or an appropriate hybrid mattress. |
| Ideal Sleeper | People who need a low bed frame. This is perfect for people in small bedrooms who want to make the space seem larger. | Those who want a standard bed height or an elevated sleep experience. Higher beds can also provide opportunities for extra storage. | Users who enjoy watching TV, reading, or scrolling on their phone in bed and want to elevate their headboard. This is also ideal for people who want elevation to prevent snoring or those who are in pain when they sleep. |
| Bed Frame Price | Can accommodate all budgets. This option is often preferred by people who want to save money by not buying a box spring. | Can accommodate most budgets. You can find affordable bed frames and budget box springs. | Can become expensive if they have advanced technology (like USB ports, Wi-Fi connectivity, and programmable angles). |
Most people will use their mattress and foundation every night for nearly a decade – if not longer. By knowing when you need a box spring and when it isn’t required, you can choose the best sleep experience for years to come.
Mattress and Foundation FAQs
If a bed frame requires a mattress and foundation, then it needs a box spring to provide support. Some frames, like platform beds, do not require box springs, and you can simply place the mattress on top. Modern box springs aren’t usually made with springs, but the term is used to describe a foundation for your mattress.
Some beds need foundations and others do not. If you buy a platform bed, you likely won’t need a foundation. The type of mattress can also determine if you need a foundation. Innerspring mattresses are more likely to need them, while memory foam and hybrid mattresses are more likely to go without, especially when using platform or adjustable bed bases.
A foundation provides support to the mattress so it does not sink into the bed when someone lies on it. Foundations also remove heat generated by sleepers from the mattress, allowing for a cooler experience. In some cases, foundations can also intentionally elevate mattresses, which is ideal for tall people or sleepers with limited mobility.
Most sleep experts recommend replacing the foundation or box spring when you purchase a new mattress. However, this isn’t always required. Traditional box springs might need to be replaced because the coils are wearing out, but modern foundations could be fine. Evaluate what the foundation is made of, its age, and its quality when deciding whether or not to replace it.
Residents in Las Vegas and Southwest Utah can visit their nearest BlvdHome location to find mattresses, foundations, and bed frames. There are several locations across Mesquite, St. George, and Cedar City. BlvdHome offers an extensive selection at unbeatable prices. Stop in today and find a bed that works for you.
Why Trust BlvdHome?
The roots of this family business began as early as the pioneer settlement of Southern Utah. One descendant of those 1861 pioneers was Lester Wittwer. In 1928, he started a trucking business with other family members, delivering homegrown fruits and vegetables to many outlying areas. The story of BlvdHome began in 1974 when Lester’s son Tony decided to venture off into the furniture world - with two full-time employees and a small showroom of only 8,000 square feet. Today, BlvdHome has 5 retail locations with over 160,000 sq. ft. of showroom space, located in St. George, Utah, Hurricane, Utah, Cedar City, Utah, Mesquite, Nevada, and a new Las Vegas location. With over 230 amazing team members, BlvdHome continues to deliver on a commitment to customer service that started over 90 years ago.
Shop Mattress Foundations at BlvdHome
At BlvdHome, we provide quality name-brand appliances, furniture, and mattresses for great prices. Shop mattress foundations online or visit us today at one of our locations in Utah or Nevada. In the meantime, browse our website to shop BlvdHome Bargain Barn and check out our flooring selections to increase your home value. More available than ever, our experts at BlvdHome are always happy to help you find mattress and foundation pairs, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Contact us today!
→ Learn more: The Best Mattress Type for Your Platform Bed