Best Foundation For Memory Foam Mattresses
By Sarah Anderson, Certified Sleep Science Coach 
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Buying yourself a new memory foam mattress doesn’t necessarily mean you’re done shopping for a good night’s sleep. Every mattress, even the best mattress, needs a strong foundation. A good foundation supports the mattress so it can keep its shape and prevents the mattress from moving as you get in and out of bed. In this guide, we cover what you should look for in a foundation for a memory foam mattress. We cover different types of foundations and what you can expect to pay. And we answer a few frequently asked questions at the end. Our team put the Zoma Foundation to the test, and it quickly became a standout option for memory foam mattresses. We researched and analyzed its build quality, ease of assembly, and overall support. What impressed us most was the foundation’s sturdy construction, which provided exceptional durability and long-lasting support for various mattress types. The Zoma Foundation is engineered with a focus on enhancing the performance of your memory foam mattress, ensuring it remains sag-free and properly ventilated over time. Our testers found that the simple, tool-free assembly made setting up this foundation a breeze, while its sleek, modern design fits seamlessly into any bedroom decor. Whether you’re dealing with a twin or king-size mattress, this foundation’s stability remains consistent, offering excellent edge support that prevents any unwanted dips. We believe the Zoma Foundation is a practical choice for those looking to maximize the lifespan of their memory foam mattress without compromising on aesthetics or ease of use. Sturdy Construction and Durable Support The Zoma Foundation was selected for its exceptional build quality and ability to provide consistent, long-lasting support. We understand that a strong foundation is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your mattress over time, especially with memory foam mattresses that require even, reliable support. The Zoma Foundation features a robust slatted structure that distributes the even weight of your mattress, preventing any sagging or dips that could compromise comfort. Our team was particularly impressed by the high-quality materials used in the construction, which not only contribute to the foundation’s durability but also enhance the lifespan of your mattress. By keeping your mattress properly supported, the Zoma Foundation helps ensure that it remains as comfortable and supportive as the day you bought it, providing you with a consistently good night’s sleep. Easy Assembly and Sleek Design Another reason we selected the Zoma Foundation is its user-friendly assembly process. Our testers appreciated that no tools were required, making setup quick and straightforward. Plus, its minimalist design complements a wide range of bedroom styles, allowing you to enjoy both functionality and aesthetics. Affordable Price Point The Zoma Foundation feels incredibly stable and supportive, creating a solid base for your memory foam mattress. Our testers noticed a significant improvement in mattress performance, particularly in maintaining the mattress’s shape and preventing sagging. The slatted design allows for adequate airflow, which helps regulate temperature and enhances comfort throughout the night. One reviewer noted, “After switching to the Zoma Foundation, I immediately felt the difference in the mattress support—no more sinking in, and the bed feels much more comfortable overall.” Overall, the Zoma Foundation complements the contouring nature of memory foam, making it an excellent choice for those who value a stable, durable sleeping surface. Our team of testers has carefully evaluated the Amerisleep Upholstered Bed, and we believe it stands out as the best-upholstered foundation for memory foam mattresses. This bed frame is designed with a sleek and modern aesthetic, effortlessly blending into a variety of bedroom styles. The sturdy construction and premium materials used in the frame ensure long-lasting durability, which we’ve tested rigorously to confirm. We were particularly impressed by the noise-free design. The bed remains silent even when you toss and turn, providing uninterrupted sleep throughout the night. The upholstered headboard adds a touch of luxury while also providing comfortable back support, which we found especially beneficial during nighttime reading sessions. Our research and analysis confirm that the Amerisleep Upholstered Bed provides the perfect combination of style, comfort, and support, making it an excellent investment for anyone with a memory foam mattress. Sturdy Construction When evaluating bed frames, durability is a key factor we consider. The Amerisleep Upholstered Bed stood out because of its robust design. The bed frame is built with a high-quality, solid wood structure, ensuring that it can easily support the weight of even the heaviest memory foam mattresses without compromising on stability. During our tests, we found that the frame remained firm and stable under various pressures, showing no signs of sagging or weakening over time. This makes it a reliable choice for those who own heavier mattresses or simply want a long-lasting bed frame that won’t need replacing any time soon. Silent Operation A peaceful sleep environment is essential, and bed frames that creak or make noise with movement can disrupt that. In our tests, we specifically looked for any signs of noise during different movements—rolling over, getting in and out of bed, or even during more vigorous activity. The Amerisleep Upholstered Bed excelled in this area, remaining completely silent throughout all tests. Its noise-free design is a result of tightly fitting components and a well-engineered frame that minimizes any potential friction or movement between parts. This feature is particularly beneficial for light sleepers or couples, ensuring that one person’s movement doesn’t disturb the other. We were drawn to the sleek, modern design of the Amerisleep Upholstered Bed. It’s versatile enough to complement any bedroom decor, adding a touch of sophistication without overpowering the room’s aesthetic. The Amerisleep Upholstered Bed offers a firm yet comfortable foundation for your memory foam mattress. We found that it strikes the right balance between support and cushioning, enhancing the comfort of the mattress without compromising on stability. The padded headboard is particularly comfortable, providing excellent back support for those who enjoy sitting up in bed. One of our reviewers noted, “The headboard is a game-changer for me. It’s soft, supportive, and makes reading in bed so much more enjoyable.” Overall, the bed feels solid and well-constructed, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to upgrade their sleep experience. During the examination of the Vaya Platform Bed, our team of testers found it to be the ideal foundation for memory foam mattresses. Designed with simplicity and durability in mind, the Vaya Platform Bed is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and easy-to-assemble option. The sturdy design ensures that your mattress remains well-supported without the need for a box spring, which we found to be a significant advantage. What impressed us most was the platform bed’s solid wood construction, which provided a stable and noise-free foundation during our tests. The slatted design promotes airflow, helping to keep your mattress cool, which is crucial for memory foam. Our research and analysis suggest that this bed frame is a fantastic blend of function and style, making it a great addition to any bedroom. Whether you prioritize ease of setup or long-term durability, the Vaya Platform Bed delivers on both fronts. When choosing a bed frame, ease of assembly is a crucial factor, especially for those who prefer a hassle-free setup experience. The Vaya Platform Bed stood out in this regard due to its straightforward and intuitive assembly process. Our testers were able to assemble the entire bed frame in just a few minutes, with no need for special tools or prior expertise. The components are designed to fit seamlessly together, with clear instructions that make the process as simple as possible. This user-friendly design not only saves time but also reduces the stress and frustration often associated with assembling furniture. Whether you’re setting up the bed alone or with help, the Vaya Platform Bed ensures that you’ll have your new sleeping space ready in no time. Stability is a key feature for any platform bed, and the Vaya Platform Bed excelled in this area. The solid wood frame and evenly spaced slats provide consistent support, eliminating the risk of sagging. The Vaya Platform Bed’s simple, modern design caught our eye. It’s a versatile piece that can easily match various decor styles while keeping the focus on your memory foam mattress. The Vaya Platform Bed offers a firm, supportive base that enhances the performance of your memory foam mattress. Our testers noticed a significant improvement in mattress stability, which contributed to a more restful sleep. The wooden slats are strategically placed to provide even support, preventing any uncomfortable dips. One of our reviewers mentioned, “I love how solid the bed feels. There’s no creaking or shifting, and it really brings out the best in my memory foam mattress.” Overall, the bed provides a secure and comfortable foundation that is both supportive and stylish. Our team of testers rigorously evaluated the Saatva Foundation and Bunkie Board, and we confidently recommend it as the best option for those who value an extended trial period. Saatva offers a generous 365-night trial, allowing you ample time to determine if this foundation truly enhances your sleep experience. The Saatva Foundation is designed to work seamlessly with memory foam mattresses, providing robust support that we found to significantly improve mattress performance. The Bunkie Board is an added bonus, offering a low-profile option for those who prefer a sleeker bed height without compromising support. During our testing, we appreciated the foundation’s solid construction and its ability to keep the mattress stable and evenly supported. Our research and analysis concluded that the Saatva Foundation and Bunkie Board offer an unbeatable combination of durability, support, and peace of mind, thanks to the extended trial period. The Saatva Foundation and Bunkie Board were chosen for their adaptability to various bed setups, offering versatile support solutions that cater to both standard and low-profile beds. The inclusion of the Bunkie Board provides a flexible option that allows you to customize your bed height according to your preferences. This versatility was particularly beneficial during our testing, as it accommodated a range of mattress types and bedroom configurations. Whether you’re looking to maintain a low-profile aesthetic or need extra support for a thicker mattress, the Saatva Foundation and Bunkie Board combination ensures that you can achieve the ideal balance of height, stability, and comfort. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for those who value both functionality and style in their bedroom setup. We were particularly drawn to the 365-night trial offered by Saatva, which gives customers a full year to test the foundation in their own homes. This level of commitment from the company speaks volumes about their confidence in the product. We noticed a marked improvement in mattress stability and overall sleep quality when using the Saatva Foundation. The strong, evenly-spaced slats provided consistent support across the entire mattress. The Saatva Foundation and Bunkie Board provide a firm and supportive base that enhances the comfort and longevity of your memory foam mattress. Our testers noted that the foundation’s solid construction effectively minimizes motion transfer, which is crucial for those who share a bed. The Bunkie Board adds an extra layer of support, ensuring the mattress remains stable and well-supported, even for heavier sleepers. One reviewer commented, “The combination of the foundation and Bunkie Board really optimized my sleep setup. I felt well-supported all night, and the bed didn’t make a sound.” Overall, the Saatva Foundation and Bunkie Board offer a premium sleep experience with excellent stability and comfort. The Tuft and Needle Box foundation is designed with simplicity, durability, and ease of use in mind. This foundation provides solid support without the bulk and hassle of a traditional box spring, making it an excellent choice for modern sleepers. We were particularly impressed with its lightweight yet sturdy construction, which offers reliable support for any memory foam mattress. The design also allows for easy assembly, a feature that our testers found especially convenient. Additionally, the foundation’s low-profile design makes it versatile enough to fit into any bedroom setup. Our research and analysis suggest that the Tuft and Needle Box Foundation is a well-rounded option that combines the best features of traditional box springs with the advantages of modern foundations, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both comfort and convenience. When evaluating mattress foundations, ease of assembly was a top priority, and the Tuft and Needle Box Foundation exceeded expectations in this regard. Our testers were able to set it up in under 30 minutes, with the entire process being straightforward and hassle-free. The foundation’s design is user-friendly, with clearly labeled parts that easily snap or screw together without the need for any special tools. Whether you’re assembling it on your own or with help, the Tuft and Needle Box Foundation ensures that you’ll have a sturdy, supportive foundation ready to use in no time. Despite its lightweight design, this foundation proved to be exceptionally sturdy. Our team found that it provided consistent support across the mattress, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of memory foam. The foundation’s low profile and sleek design make it a great fit for any bedroom decor. It works well with a variety of bed frames and styles, offering flexibility for those who like to change up their bedroom’s look. The Tuft and Needle Box Foundation offers a firm and supportive base that complements the characteristics of a memory foam mattress. Our testers noticed that it significantly reduced motion transfer, making it an excellent choice for couples. The foundation also maintains the mattress’s shape, preventing any sagging or dipping over time. One reviewer mentioned, “This foundation provided the perfect support for my memory foam mattress, and the setup was a breeze. It feels incredibly sturdy yet lightweight.” Overall, the Tuft and Needle Box Foundation enhances the comfort and durability of your mattress, offering a balanced sleep experience. We confidently recommend LatexForLess Natural Wood Mattress Foundation as the best natural foundation for memory foam mattresses. Designed with eco-conscious consumers in mind, this foundation is crafted from sustainably sourced natural wood, offering a perfect blend of durability and environmental responsibility. We were particularly impressed by its robust construction, which provides excellent support for memory foam mattresses. The slatted design promotes optimal airflow, which helps regulate temperature and extends the life of the mattress. Additionally, the foundation is easy to assemble, and its natural wood finish adds a touch of rustic elegance to any bedroom decor. Our research and analysis suggest that the LatexForLess Natural Wood Mattress Foundation is an exceptional choice for those who prioritize both the environment and a high-quality sleep experience. Our team was drawn to the use of sustainably sourced natural wood in this foundation. We appreciate the commitment to eco-friendly practices, which aligns with our values of promoting sustainable products. The slatted design of the LatexForLess foundation allows for excellent air circulation. During our testing, we found that this feature helped maintain a comfortable sleep temperature and prevented the mattress from retaining heat. Stability is key, and this foundation delivered. Our testers noted that the solid wood frame provided consistent support, ensuring the mattress remained well-supported without any sagging. The LatexForLess Natural Wood Mattress Foundation offers a firm, supportive base that enhances the comfort and longevity of your memory foam mattress. Our testers were pleased with how well the foundation supported the mattress, preventing any sagging or unevenness. The slatted design also contributed to a cooler sleep experience, as the airflow helped regulate temperature effectively. One of our reviewers commented, “I love the natural look and feel of this foundation. It’s sturdy, well-made, and aligns with my commitment to using eco-friendly products.” Overall, the foundation provides a solid, reliable base that enhances the overall sleep experience. Using the right foundation is a crucial part of taking care of your mattress. A foundation extends your mattress’s likely lifespan by providing support and preventing dirt, dust, pests, and mold spores on the ground from working their way into your mattress. The right foundation can also impact the feel of your bed. If you buy a low-quality foundation that provides insufficient support, your mattress may develop lumps or sag. A sagging or lumpy mattress is not only uncomfortable to lie on but can misalign your spine and cause morning back pain. Even a high-quality mattress may lose its support early if it’s not kept on a strong foundation. A bed foundation may be necessary to maintain your mattress warranty. The exact specifications of the warranty can vary. Some mattress brands only specify the type of foundation needed, but other mattress brands may require you to use their foundation. Different types of mattresses require different types of support. A memory foam mattress foundation needs to provide consistent, even support to keep the bed in shape. A solid surface or a set of wooden slats can offer this support— the slats, though, need to be no more than 2.75 inches apart and at least 0.5 inches thick. A good foundation for a memory foam mattress also has spaces for air to flow in and out, such as a slatted design. Traditional memory foam mattresses can retain too much body heat and wake a sleeper if air cannot pass through. If you prefer a solid surface for your foundation, you can avoid sleeping hot by choosing a cooling mattress such as a gel memory foam mattress. There’s a lot of different ways you can support your memory foam mattress. When shopping for your foundation, think about what is best not only for your mattress but for your lifestyle wants and needs. Do you want a bed tall enough to offer under-bed storage space? Do you like a bed with a lot of technical gadgets, or do you prefer a minimalist wood design? A platform bed has a simple design— a wooden rectangular frame with a flat base and sturdy legs that may be detachable. Typically a platform bed doesn’t include a headboard or footboard, although some do come with the option to attach one. Some platform beds have flat sides more like a box than legs to support the foundation. These platform beds may have built-in drawers for under-bed storage. Platform beds can come with a slatted or solid surface. We recommend a slatted platform bed for better ventilation, as a solid foundation risks trapping body heat. Check that the slats are no more than 2.75 inches apart. Platform beds are often lower to the floor than traditional bed frames. If you like the design but want a few more inches of height, you might consider a set of bed risers. Most platform beds are relatively inexpensive, costing $300 or less. A metal platform base looks like a platform bed, with a rectangular grid design made of metal. Steel frames are common and some metal bases are even foldable. You can set up one at night and put it away during the day. Like platform beds, metal platform bases typically do not come with a headboard or a footboard. Often, they’re a little bit taller than platform beds, providing more room for under-bed storage. We do not recommend metal form bases for memory mattresses, as many of them cannot meet the 2.75 inches apart or less rule. The standard grid design doesn’t offer many points of contact between the bed frame and the mattress. Fewer points of contact can mean poor support, which can lead to premature sagging and indentations. An adjustable bed base can raise or lower parts of the bed and can make a good mattress feel even more comfortable. Many adjustable bases come with preset positions and a wireless remote for easy adjustment, and some come with extra features such as built-in massagers and under-bed storage and lighting. The biggest benefit to an adjustable foundation is how it can help alleviate symptoms of numerous conditions. Some sleepers with acid reflux, poor circulation, obstructive sleep apnea or snoring, arthritis, back pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, and restless legs syndrome have found relief by using an adjustable base. An adjustable base can also provide greater comfort and convenience. You can sit up in bed for reading or raise your upper body to get in and out of the bed more easily. The typical price tag of an adjustable base may give you some pause. The average adjustable bed base costs $1,150, with some models costing $3,000 or more. Many adjustable bases do not come with a return policy, so if you buy one and do not like it, you may be out a lot of money. If you want to keep your head raised to alleviate symptoms of snoring, sleep apnea, or acid reflux, a wedge pillow can be an inexpensive alternative to an adjustable base. Wedge pillows can also elevate your knees to reduce pressure on your lower back. A box spring is a wooden frame with a layer of steel coils, encased in cloth. Traditional box springs support an innerspring mattress in a panel bed. A low profile box spring, also known as a low profile foundation, is a slimmer box spring designed for a thicker mattress. The slim design can keep the mattress at a more comfortable height. A box spring can support an innerspring or a hybrid mattress well enough, but we strongly advise against using a box spring with a foam bed. A traditional box spring is not designed to provide the consistent support a foam mattress needs, and keeping a memory foam bed on top of a box spring may cause the mattress to lose its shape and structure. However, if you have a box spring you want to use, you can sandwich a bunkie board between the box spring and mattress. A bunkie board is made with plywood or particle board and you set it on top of a box spring or a bed’s rails for even mattress support. If you’re living on a tight budget or want to take your time to shop around for the best foundation, the floor should do as a temporary or a permanent foundation. As long as your floor is a flat and even surface, as most floors are, it can provide the uniform support a memory foam mattress needs. A downside to having your mattress on the floor is a restriction of airflow. As air cannot escape through the bottom of your mattress, body heat and moisture may build up inside the mattress. Trapped body heat can disturb you in your sleep and collected moisture may promote the growth of mold and mildew. Your mattress may be vulnerable to dirt, dust, and bugs if it’s kept on the floor. If your new mattress does not include a cover, we recommend investing in a mite-proof cover to protect it. You can find mite-proof covers ranging from $15 to $50. We also recommend taking the time to regularly clean your mattress. Vacuum your mattress and the area surrounding it often, and lift it once a week to air out and prevent mold and mildew from growing. Change your bedding often as well— the recommendation is to do so every week. A bed frame or raised platform may work better for the elderly or those with chronic pain issues. If you have difficulties getting out of bed or standing up unassisted, a mattress on the floor may not be for you. If you’re thinking about keeping your mattress on the floor, check your mattress’s warranty first. Not placing your mattress on a bed frame or base may void the warranty. When you’re considering a foundation, we recommend making sure it not only fits your planned mattress but that it also fits comfortably into your bedroom or living area. To easily move around your bed you’ll want 2 or 3 feet of room at least, plus any space needed for extra furniture. Typical mattress sizes are as follows: If you’re tight on living space, a foldable frame can help you make the most of it. Just take a close look at the bed’s design to make sure it will provide needed support. Most foldable foundations are metal, as it’s more difficult to make a supportive and foldable wooden foundation. Every foundation has a weight capacity. Most can hold 400 or 500 pounds at a minimum, but it’s a good idea to double-check a foundation’s weight capacity before you buy. Reach out to customer service if you cannot find the weight capacity on the company’s website. The combined height of a mattress and a foundation can range between 16 to 25 inches tall. A good foundation keeps your bed in this height range. If you have a thicker mattress, consider a shorter foundation. A taller foundation can work with a thinner mattress or for someone who wants more under-bed storage. Your ideal bed height should let your feet rest flat on the floor, your knees in line with your hip, while you sit on the edge of your bed. If your knees rise above your hips, the bed is too low. Prices for a foundation can vary depending on the type of foundation and the material it’s made of. A metal frame, for example, is typically less expensive than a wooden foundation. For the most part, you should be able to find a basic bed frame or foundation for under $500. The exception is an adjustable bed base, which can cost more than $3,000. If you’re looking at a basic metal or wooden foundation, a budget between $200 to $500 should ensure you’re getting a quality foundation. For an adjustable base, we recommend a budget between $1,500 to $2,000, although if you’re looking for an adjustable base with extra features or a split-king design, you may have to budget more than $3,000. You’ll likely compare prices and features while you look at different mattress foundations. You may want to take the time to compare warranties and return policies while you’re at it. Most bed frames and foundations don’t come with a sleep trial, nor do you need one like you would with a mattress. If you want the security of trying out your foundation, we recommend one that comes with a return policy. Many bed frames and foundations are often final sale items, so check if there’s a return policy attached before you purchase. A foundation’s warranty is typically shorter than a mattress’s warranty, often lasting between 3 to 5 years. The warranty should cover structural and workmanship defects, and may also cover any mechanical failures if you’re purchasing an adjustable base. We recommend filing away your original receipt in a safe place, as you usually need a proof of purchase to make a warranty claim. We do not recommend a box spring for memory foam mattresses. If you have a box spring you want to use, place a flat piece of plywood or particle board on top. The board must be at least 0.75 inches thick and moisture-resistant. The board will keep the support even and prevent the mattress from sagging. We recommend slats less than 2.75 inches apart and at least half an inch thick. The farther apart slats are, the more the mattress can dip below the slats, causing premature material decay and loss of structure. A memory foam mattress typically sags either from defective foam that degrades quickly or from improper support for the mattress. We recommend a mattress warranty that covers 10 years or more to protect against defects and a good quality foundation for your memory foam mattress to ensure it’s well-supported. The right foundation for a memory foam mattress isn’t too difficult to find. All you need is a foundation with consistent support and ideally some room for air to flow in and out. If you have any questions about a foundation you’re considering, such as the distance between slats, reach out to the customer service. Once you buy your foundation, we recommend checking on it every year to make sure all its parts are in good condition— for example, no broken or cracked slats, wood rot, or rust. We also advise vacuuming and wiping down your foundation and bed frame when you clean your mattress, which you should do every three to six months. This article is for informational purposes and should not replace advice from your doctor or other medical professional. Sarah Anderson is a sleep, health, and wellness writer and product reviewer. She has written articles on changing and improving your sleep schedule, choosing the right mattress for chronic pain conditions, and finding the best pillow for you. Sarah Anderson has her Bachelor of Arts degree from Arizona State University in Journalism and Mass Communications. Prior to working for Zoma, she wrote for a variety of news publications. Sarah's work has been featured on Bustle, PureWow, and other publications.Buying Guide for Best Foundation For Memory Foam Mattresses
Best Foundation Overall
1. Zoma Foundation
In addition to its sturdy construction and sleek design, we selected the Zoma Foundation because it offers great value for its price. Our team found that it delivers premium features typically found in higher-end foundations, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers who don’t want to compromise on quality or durability.Best Upholstered Frame
2. Amerisleep Upholstered Bed
Elegant Design
Best Value Bed Frame
3. Vaya Platform Bed
Ease of Assembly
Superior Stability
Sleek, Minimalist Design
Best Trial Pillow
4. Saatva Foundation and Bunkie Board
Versatile Support Options
Unmatched Trial Period
Enhanced Mattress Performance
Best Box Spring Alternative
5. Tuft and Needle Box Foundation
Ease of Assembly
Lightweight Yet Sturdy
Versatile Design
Best Natural Pillow
6. LatexForLess Natural Wood Mattress Foundation
Sustainable Materials
Superior Airflow
Sturdy Construction
Why Is The Right Foundation Important?
Types of Foundations
Platform Bed
Metal Platform Base
Adjustable Bed Base
Box Spring
Your Floor
Fitting a Foundation Into Your Living Space
Mattress Size Dimensions in Inches Twin 38 by 75 Twin XL 38 by 80 Full 54 by 75 Full XL 54 by 80 Queen 60 by 80 King 76 by 80 California King 72 by 84 Weight Capacity
Bed Height
Setting a Budget
Sleep Trial, Warranty, and Return Policy
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a box spring with a memory foam mattress?
How far apart should slats be for a memory foam mattress?
What causes mattresses to sag?
Did We Help?
Sarah Anderson, Certified Sleep Science Coach
Thanks so much. Buying a memory foam mattress and wasn’t sure about the platform. I think I will go with the metal frame. Good to know the slats should be no more than 3 inches apart and also good to know that you should not put a memory foam mattress on a boxspring.