Up to 35% off everything.
800.588.5720
Up to 35% off everything.
800.588.5720
Up to 35% off everything.

Foundation Guide

You’ve got your mattress. Now what? While your mattress is an important component to the quality of your sleep, the foundation or base you pair with your mattress is equally as important. So, how do you maximize the comfort and support your body needs with a mattress foundation? Pair your mattress with a foundation that will elevate your sleep. This guide will explain what a foundation is, why you need one, and everything you need to know before you choose one.

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Foundation Guide

Foundation Guide

You’ve got your mattress. Now what? While your mattress is an important component to the quality of your sleep, the foundation or base you pair with your mattress is equally as important. So, how do you maximize the comfort and support your body needs with a mattress foundation? Pair your mattress with a foundation that will elevate your sleep. This guide will explain what a foundation is, why you need one, and everything you need to know before you choose one.

What is a Foundation?

A mattress foundation is a base that a mattress is placed on for structure and support. It is the modern day box spring without the springs, often made with wooden or metal slats that are covered with breathable materials. The distance between the slats determines how much support the foundation provides. Typically, you want the slats to be closer together for a more solid feel.

Why Does Your Mattress Need a Foundation?

A mattress is only as good as its foundation. When a mattress is on a flat, solid surface, it keeps the mattress in good condition longer than if there was no structural integrity underneath it. My Slumber Yard blog states that a base helps to distribute weight evenly, protecting the mattress from extra duress and sagging. From a sanitation perspective, a foundation lifts the mattress off the ground, providing height and protecting it from unwelcome pests, dust, and bacteria. Good sleep starts with the foundation, and BedInABox® has your back.

Different Types of Foundations

There are a number of foundation types that can be paired with your mattress depending on your sleep preferences: a bunkie board, a box spring, and a solid foundation, a platform foundation and an adjustable foundation.


A bunkie board is a thin wood board placed between its mattress and the base. It is most often not a stand-alone piece. Rather, it is used to add extra support for your current mattress foundation.


A traditional box spring is often considered the prototype for a modern foundation. Inside of a traditional box spring are metal coils covered with fabric, surrounded by a wooden frame. Over time, the coils will begin to degrade, becoming noisy and in worst cases, poking through the fabric. Box springs should not be used with foam mattresses.


The solid foundation is a more supportive version of the box spring without springs. Foundations are built with wood or metal slats to create a fairly solid surface to support most mattresses, especially memory foam mattresses. It makes a foundation the best choice for your BedInABox® mattress.

A platform foundation can best be described as a combination of a standard mattress foundation and a bed frame, usually offering a slightly lower profile than pairing a solid foundation with a separate bed frame.

An adjustable foundation is a solid mattress base that can be raised or lowered to create a custom sleep experience. Adjustable bed foundations are known to provide many benefits, including relief from sleep apnea and snoring.

Which BedInABox® Foundation is Right for You?

When choosing your mattress foundation, it is important to consider your sleep preferences, the available space in your bedroom and your budget. All BedInABox® mattress sizes follow the standard size chart and our foundations are built to accommodate most standard mattress sizes.

Mattress Size Guide

Our Clever Connect® is a solid foundation option that can be paired with optional wooden legs and comes in as the most affordable foundation we offer. The Platform BedInABox® remains an affordable option that has a matching upholstered headboard available in select sizes as an add-on. Our two MotionInABox®Adjustable Bed options start at a higher price point, but offer two completely customizable sleep experiences. Whichever foundation best suits you and your mattress’s needs, we have a solution for every sleep space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use a foundation on an adjustable bed frame?

No. An adjustable bed frame is considered a standalone mattress foundation itself. All BedInABox® mattresses are compatible with our MotionInABox® Adjustable Beds.

Are foundations compatible with all types of mattresses?

More specifically, your mattress type determines which foundation your mattress needs. If you sleep on a memory foam mattress, it is not compatible with a traditional box spring. Foam mattresses need to be paired with solid foundations for the appropriate level of support.

Is there a trial period for my foundation?

Our Clever Connect® Foundation does qualify for our 120-night sleep trial period. Please refer to our Return Policy for more details.

What is the BedInABox® mattress foundation return policy?

The Clever Connect® mattress foundation may be returned within the 120-day trial period. This product is subject to a $50 shipping charge and a 20% restocking fee. Foundations must be returned clean and include all pieces to qualify for a refund. Original packaging must be included for return (box, parts, etc.).

Original Product Image
Original
11” multilayer foam construction designed with CoolRest® Gel memory foam to bring you cool, comfortable memory foam support.
Starting at $512.85 $789
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Azul® Product Image
Azul®
11” medium-soft multilayer foam construction with an UltraCool® soft knit cover and our most advanced cooling system to keep you sleeping comfortably.
Starting at $610.35 $939
Shop Azul®
Tranquillium® Product Image
Tranquillium®
12” and three layers of memory foam support infused with CoolRest® technology for those seeking maximum support and comfort.
Starting at $681.85 $1,049
Shop Tranquillium®