Mattress Foundation vs Box Spring – Choosing The Right Bed

November 21, 2017

With all the exciting terms in the market today—innerspring, latex, memory foam—sometimes it feels like it’s all about the mattress. And sure, finding the right mattress is incredibly important. However, to get the most out of your mattress, you should understand how it works together with the proper support system. Today, we’re comparing the pros and cons of two common mattress supports: a mattress foundation vs box spring. Which is the right choice for you?

How They’re Made

First, it’s important to note that mattress foundations are sometimes used as a broad term to describe any sleep support system. Sometimes, the term is used interchangeably with box springs. However, a box spring typically refers to a traditional mattress support system used with innerspring mattresses. Constructed from a wood and metal frame with a fabric covering, a box spring contains coils that pair well with the springs in traditional mattresses to yield to the pressure points of your body. In other words, the construction of a box spring is firm but slightly flexible.

Mattress foundations may come in several variations, but they’re typically used with latex and/or memory foam mattresses. Because these mattresses provide more flexibility, their foundation needs to be firmer than a traditional box spring and provide more even support. Mattress foundations are typically constructed either from solid wood or wooden frames and slats, sometimes covered by fabric. Solid foundations are sometimes referred to as platform foundations.

The Pros & Cons – Mattress Foundation Vs Box Spring

Now that we’ve covered the basics when it comes to a mattress foundation vs box spring, let’s compare some of the key advantages and disadvantages of each:

Box Springs

• Used for innerspring mattresses
• Not used for latex or memory foam
• Provides both “give” and support
• Typically more expensive
• Can be heavy and awkward to move

Foundations

• Best used with memory foam and/or latex mattresses
• Can be used for some innerspring mattresses
• Provides firm, even support
• Can be less expensive
• Very lightweight
• Easy to set up and can sometimes be disassembled
• Perfect for smaller living spaces
• Can provide storage space underneath

Always compare these key points to your individual needs, as everyone needs something a little different. But also keep in mind that these points will still vary depending on the manufacturer, especially as more hybrid forms become available.

Finding The Right Mattress Foundation

So, how do you know which mattress foundation is best for you? In the end, the answer is simple. You want a sleep system where both the mattress and the foundation are working together in perfect harmony. With the Swift Bed, you get just that. The sophisticated tri-layer design of our mattress combines premium Talalay latex with cooling gel-infused memory foam and a high resistance base, all on top of a rolled wood slat foundation. Even better? Shipping is free, and setting it up in your home is incredibly simple—with no tools required! All of our mattresses also come with a 100-Night Guarantee. If you’re unsatisfied within the first 100 nights, we’ll pick up the mattress and refund your purchase.

Ready to enjoy Swift sleep? Shop now.

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