It may be tempting to put your new mattress on top of the old box spring you’ve had for years, but that’s not always the best idea. Box springs wear out, and older models are not constructed to accommodate modern mattress technology.
Putting a new mattress on an old box spring can compromise the supportive qualities of your new mattress and leave you disappointed.
This is certainly not an ideal feeling after making such a significant investment. A new mattress will not feel as supportive and comfortable as you expected when used on an old box spring.
There are many types of mattress foundations, from wooden ones to adjustable bases, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. Mattress foundations are available in ultra-low-profile/bunkie board types, low-profile, standard height, split, and semi-flex options.
The type of mattress you buy will largely dictate which foundation is most appropriate, and the sleep specialists at Mattress World Northwest will steer you in the correct direction.
A box spring isn’t always the best option, though. More people are actually choosing to spring (no pun intended) for adjustable foundations, and they have become more affordable than you might think!
When deciding whether to buy a box spring with your new mattress, consider a few advantages. Box springs are:
There are also many disadvantages to using a box spring with your new mattress. Box springs tend to:
Older box springs can wear out because of constant, repetitive pressure that weakens the coils. This pressure causes the springs to lose their resiliency, producing a saggy mattress. A mattress that sits on a worn-out box spring will not properly support your body.
Signs that a box spring is past its prime:
Throw your box spring away if any of the preceding qualities apply.
Memory foam mattresses perform best on a more rigid foundation because of their weight and characteristics. If you have a traditional box spring that you previously used with an innerspring mattress but are making the switch to memory foam, definitely look for a platform or adjustable foundation.
People often make the mistake of purchasing a wonderful new mattress that feels great in the store, then place it on their old box spring. They quickly find that the new mattress feels similar to the one they replaced. They wake up with back pain or other aches and continue to suffer from fatigue, then wonder why this is happening. It is undoubtedly frustrating and makes people feel misled about the quality of their new mattress. Regardless of whether you’re spending $900 or $5,000 on a mattress, it’s a significant investment.
If the bed foundation is compromised, your new mattress will not be able to function properly, and your sleep will suffer.
When taking an important step toward better sleep, don’t take a shortcut. Upgrade your foundation as well.
Mattress World Northwest carries a range of box springs and foundations to suit various mattress types and sizes. However, some customers prefer to opt for adjustable foundations because of their wide range of useability. Especially for those who are using their beds for things other than sleeping, an adjustable base is a great option. Check out the TEMPUR-Pedic Ergo Smart Base.
If you want to stick with a box spring or more low-profile foundation, the TEMPUR-Pedic LP is an option many are thrilled with. Purple Foundation is another excellent choice for a box spring, praised for its simple assembly and extreme durability, holding up to 2,000 lbs. For those after an adjustable and affordable base, the Bed Tech BTX4 is a popular choice.
If you are purchasing a new mattress and the foundation is older than the mattress you are replacing or switching to a different type of mattress, your existing base or box spring may not be appropriate for the new mattress. Box springs only last for a while, and a worn-out box spring will seriously diminish the comfort of a brand-spanking-new mattress.
The sleep specialists at Mattress World Northwest know exactly which base is best for each mattress and will help you decide if your old base will work or upgrade.
At Mattress World Northwest we dedicate ourselves to bringing you the highest quality of customer service, knowledge and superior assistance when you come in to any one of our stores. Since the beginning, we have been most of all interested in helping our customers find that perfect bed, and that elusive restful night’s sleep.
While you can't go wrong with any of our mattresses, here are a few factors you'll want to consider before making a purchase: your sleep position (and if you have a partner, theirs as well), the size of the space, and a price point. If you have any questions, rest easy knowing that our team is happy to help you find that perfect fit.
| Size | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| Twin | 38″ wide x 75″ long x 9.25″ tall |
| Twin XL | 38″ wide x 80″ long x 9.25″ tall |
| Full | 54″ wide x 75″ long x 9.25″ tall |
| Queen | 60″ wide x 80″ long x 9.25″ tall |
| King | 76″ wide x 80″ long x 9.25″ tall |
| Cal King | 72″ wide x 84″ long x 9.25″ tall |
| Split King (2pk) | 38″ wide x 80″ long x 9.25″ tall |
Mattress World Northwest makes it easy to choose the right foundation for your space and lifestyle.
Reliable support for your boxspring and mattress.
