Do Memory Foam Mattresses Need Box Springs?

Getting a good night’s sleep is important to the physical and mental health of an individual. When researching online for the best mattress for your needs, you’ll discover there is a lot to consider, such as how will your mattress be supported?

Traditionally, a mattress sale would include purchasing a box spring. But, what about memory foam mattresses? Do they need a box spring to get optimal comfort and sleep? If not, then what does a person use to support a memory foam mattress?

Before answering those questions, let’s take a moment to discuss the characteristics of memory foam. What makes memory foam popular? What is the difference in a box spring versus a foundation?

Characteristics of a Memory Foam Mattress

Memory foam mattresses are quite popular these days. They offer something new and improved for the consumer to consider. The idea that a mattress can mold to one’s body and cradle them as they sleep is revolutionary. This is a far cry from the traditional mattress that contains springs that may wear out or break with extended use.

There are characteristics of a memory foam mattress that consumers should consider when deciding to make the switch from traditional to memory foam. The first characteristic to consider is the weight of a memory foam mattress. They tend to be heavy and need a solid foundation. The ideal setup would include a solid with a flat surface to lay the mattress on. You will then need a bed foundation to rest the mattress and support on.

Secondly, memory foam mattresses have the ability to aid in the treatment of chronic back problems and poor circulation. While sleeping, memory foam can relieve pressure points and spinal pressure. The average individual spends one-third of their life in bed. So, it seems sensible to have a mattress that would aid in the treatment of chronic ailments.

Temperature can be an overlooked aspect of sleep. The bedroom should be at an optimum temperature of 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range allows the body to decrease its temperature which helps us to reach a healthy state of sleep. Memory foam is a type of mattress that molds to the body, this helps with pressure relief but can cause sleeping hot concerns. Just make sure you’re shopping for quality memory foam beds that don’t restrict airflow.

Lastly, memory foam is a material labeled hypoallergenic. This means that while you sleep, the threat of needing an antihistamine in the morning is low. Because of the material used, consumers are less likely to have an allergic reaction during their sleep.

The characteristics of memory foam are all positive for getting a good night’s sleep. Aiding in chronic ailments, controlling our body temperatures, and alleviating allergen issues are not what consumers might call traditional. This mattress will deliver. Sleep problems directly affect our lives. Memory foam is a material that will partner with you to combat sleep problems. While it is a heavy material that needs a firm foundation, it can be a great addition to your home.

SEE ALSO: The Best Place to Buy a Mattress & 7 In-Store Myths

What is a Box Spring?

Box springs are a combination of wood and steel springs. They serve as a foundation for traditional mattresses. They help to absorb shock from unnatural movements like jumping on the bed or natural movements like rolling over.

A box spring is usually purchased either as a set with a new mattress or individually. Sometimes a box spring can outlive a mattress.  This brings up the question of can I use a box spring with a memory foam mattress?

Box Spring versus Foundations

Consumers purchasing a new mattress are going to find themselves wondering if they have the correct foundation. Because a traditional box spring is commonly known as the foundation, we need to take a minute to understand the differences in each.

As stated before, a box spring is the most known and used foundation. It does contain springs that help absorb movement. For innerspring mattresses not containing memory foam, this is an acceptable option.

A foundation is a solid or slatted piece used with memory foam and latex mattresses. They are made of particleboard or wood slats spaced strategically spaced apart. The best foundations for memory foam mattresses will be budget-friendly and designed to support you and your bed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of bed frame do you need for a memory foam mattress?

Frames made of heavy material such as platforms are the most appropriate choice for a memory foam mattress. A platform that consists of wooden slats placed horizontally is another good choice. Metal bed frames are an acceptable choice as well.

What do you put under a memory foam mattress?

All that is required to support your new memory foam mattress is a solid foundation. Bunkie boards, metal bases, wooden slats, or the floor will give you the support you need. Firm box springs would be okay. Make sure to keep a check for any wear and tear to keep your memory foam mattress in good condition. An old box spring is not a good choice.

Can you put a memory foam mattress on the floor?

You can put a memory foam mattress on the floor but remember that like any mattress, they need to breathe. It’s not just the solid surface but the height that works against you here.

See, when you place a mattress on a solid bed foundation like a bunkie board, there’s still a slight elevation from the floor. The elevation promotes ventilation, helping to prevent moisture buildup and allowing the mattress materials to breathe more effectively.

With airflow more restricted on the floor and more exposure to dust and debris, bacteria and mold can begin to grow. Any mattress needs the ability to air itself out. If you must keep it on the floor, we recommend leaning your mattress against the wall to air out once a week.

Can you put a mattress directly on slats?

Yes, you can. Before you do, though, make sure the slats are at least 0.5 inches thick and no more than 2.75 inches apart. These measurements will ensure that your base can support a memory foam mattress. Otherwise, the slats might break or bend under the mattress or leave room for parts of the bed to sink beneath the slats.

Are box springs obsolete?

Box springs certainly aren’t as necessary as they once were. Traditionally, a box spring made an innerspring mattress more comfortable and supportive. Modern memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses don’t need a box spring to feel their best.

So, Does a Memory Foam Mattress Need a Box Spring?

Memory foam is a unique material that enables us to sleep with ease as we are cradled into the mattress, unlike a traditional bed with an innerspring mattress. These unique mattresses are designed to treat chronic ailments and keep our bodies at an optimum temperature for a good night’s sleep.

Box springs are the go-to choice for most types of mattresses. Traditionally, this choice would serve its purpose well. Memory foam mattresses are not traditional and thus need a little more than a box spring can give. They are heavy and need a firm foundation to allow them to breathe and not begin sagging.

Our takeaway from this knowledge is that a box spring is not the ideal choice, rather, a more firm foundation is. A firm foundation will allow the memory foam to do what it is designed for and help extend the life of the mattress. It will provide enough support without losing the incredible benefits of a memory foam bed.

The short answer is a proper foundation is key to the life of a memory foam mattress. Foundations are usually solid. A thick piece of plywood, a bunkie board, or even the floor can serve as a solid foundation. Another good choice is a metal or wood slat foundation with evenly spaced horizontal slats.

We can conclude that a memory foam mattress does not need a box spring. It needs a foundation instead. Box springs are not designed to support the weight of a memory foam mattress. They are constructed using metal springs that could harm the structure of your new memory foam mattress. In the best interest of your memory foam mattress and your sleep quality, choosing a mattress foundation that best suits the weight of the mattress will benefit you best.