Do I Need a Foundation for My Mattress?

Texas Mattress Makers

April 11, 2024 · 7 min read

After purchasing a mattress, many customers ask, “Do I need a foundation for my mattress?” and we don’t hesitate to tell them, yes, you do. Good sleep starts with a good foundation — and while we typically mean a good mattress itself, we also mean a literal foundation for that mattress.

Do you need a foundation with a mattress? We understand that asking you to buy more items after investing in a mattress can feel overwhelming. However, we would never recommend products that we do not deem necessary for your sleep. Purchasing a mattress foundation can have a significant impact on your sleep quality and the lifespan of your mattress.

The mattress experts at Texas Mattress Makers are here to explain the importance of this crucial mattress accessory, the role it plays in your sleep quality, and how you can find the best mattress foundation for you.

Please note that if you choose to place your mattress on the floor without a bed frame or foundation, you are choosing to void your warranty at most mattress stores including Texas Mattress Makers. Visible dips and sinking-related issues with your mattress caused by a defective foundation or bed frame that was supplied by another manufacturer are also not covered in our warranty. Learn more about our warranty.

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What is a mattress foundation?

Before we dive into the reasons why you should invest in a mattress foundation, let’s quickly go over what a foundation is and what it does for your bed. A mattress foundation provides a sturdy and durable base that keeps your mattress off the ground. Placed over the bedframe, this foundation helps prevent uneven wear of your mattress which can extend the mattress’s lifespan.

Now, you may be thinking, doesn’t this sound exactly like a box spring? While both box springs and foundations serve as support systems for your mattress, they have different characteristics. The biggest difference between a foundation vs. box spring is what’s on the inside — box springs have coils and foundations have wooden slats. We choose to sell foundations over box springs for the following reasons:

The quality of our wooden materials provides more stability and support than the average box spring
Our locally sourced wood can withstand wear for years to come, where coils can break down over time
Our foundations provide better air circulation to keep your mattress cooler and more hygienic

Overall, a mattress foundation is more likely to expand the lifespan of your mattress for longer, making it the superior investment choice.

How important is a mattress foundation?

The role that a mattress foundation plays in keeping your mattress protected and elevated cannot be overstated. Without proper support, your mattress is at risk of early wear and tear — or worse, developing dips, dents, or sagging which can render the mattress useless.

A foundation evenly distributes weight and promotes structural integrity, which means it can prevent the development of soft spots and maintain the mattress’s form. For example, you need a foundation for memory foam mattresses, in particular, to perform properly, otherwise, the foam will become misshapen over time.

Can you sleep on a bed without a foundation?

Technically, you could sleep on a mattress without a foundation, but it will have consequences for you and the mattress itself. Some sleepers like the idea of putting their mattress on the floor for minimalistic or aesthetic purposes — however, in our expert opinion, this is a fruitless decision. If you simply place a mattress on the ground or on top of exposed wooden slats, the uneven surfaces will not be able to support the mattress’s components, leading to dips, dents, or sagging in your bed. Plus, leaving a mattress directly on the floor exposes your bed to bugs and allergens.

Sleeping on a sagging bed can lead to sleep problems. An uneven foundation turns into an uneven bed which turns into aches and pains for you. Doesn’t sound fun, does it? In order to have a supportive mattress for your body, you need something that will support your mattress.

In short, a mattress foundation is crucial for providing a solid, stable base for your mattress to lay on so that your body can lay perfectly even on the mattress, resulting in getting the best quality sleep possible.

Keep reading: How can you tell if you need a new mattress?

Types of mattress foundations

At Texas Mattress Makers, we have a selection of mattress foundations that can suit a variety of needs and preferences. If you’re unsure which type or height would be best for you and your mattress, feel free to ask any of our experts for assistance!

Bunkie Board

The Bunkie Board is a two-inch flat, durable base that keeps your mattress off the ground without adding significant height. This foundation is perfect for those who want that close-to-the-floor look while still providing the support your mattress needs.

Low Profile Foundation

The Low Profile Foundation is a 4.5-inch foundation that is shorter than a standard foundation but is tall enough to make getting out of bed easier in the morning.

Standard Foundation

The Standard Foundation is an 8.5-inch foundation that is well-suited for both individuals of average height and taller individuals. As the standard choice, this foundation is the most common pick among customers.

Heavy Duty Plywood Mattress Foundation

If you want a foundation that provides superior support, check out our Heavy Duty Plywood Mattress Foundation. Reinforced with both plywood and hard oak wood, this foundation provides 10 times the support of a traditional box spring and can support any weight effortlessly. Its durable construction allows it to last a lifetime. If desired, this foundation can be installed with legs to take the place of a bed frame.

Acid Reflux Foundation

If you suffer from acid reflux and may not have the budget to invest in an adjustable base, we collaborated with gastrointestinal doctors to create the Acid Reflux Foundation. This foundation is constructed with the head raised at 9 inches while the foot remains at 2 inches high, resulting in a slant that prevents stomach acids from reaching the esophagus as you sleep, reducing or eliminating heartburn and choking.

Please make sure that you are getting the right size foundation for the mattress you purchase.

How to choose the best mattress foundation

Finding the best mattress foundation is all about selecting the right foundation for your personal needs.

Consider your body type: Your height and weight are important factors in determining how much support you need as well as how tall your foundation should be. Heavier individuals may need a sturdier foundation and shorter sleepers may find it easier to get out of bed with a shorter foundation.
Take note of your current mattress’s dimensions: Knowing how tall and wide your mattress is can help you determine which foundation height you will need depending on your personal preferences.
Consider upgrades: If you’re purchasing a new foundation, you may want to consider if an adjustable base or other modern features might enhance your sleep experience.

Our experts are always here to help you choose the right foundation for you.

Find Your Perfect Mattress Foundation at Texas Mattress Makers

Do I need a foundation for my mattress? Yes! If you want your mattress to support your body and last a long time, getting a mattress foundation is crucial. Choosing to ignore this essential mattress accessory will have long-lasting consequences for both your mattress and your sleep quality.

Here at Texas Mattress Makers, we sell high-quality mattress foundations for factory-direct prices that can suit any budget. Whether you need a brand-new mattress or a mattress foundation, we have everything you could ever need to elevate your sleep quality. Visit any of our mattress stores in Katy, Downtown Houston, The Woodlands, Rosenberg, Humble, or Baybrook, TX to speak to an expert or shop online to see our selection.

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