What you put under your new mattress is as important to your support and comfort as the mattress itself. Making certain your new mattress has the correct frame or foundation will contribute greatly to years of restful comfort. More often than not, using the old frame or foundation will hinder the comfort and support of your new mattress.

 

A great resource for information about the numerous bed frame and foundation options now on the market, with many specifically designed for today's new bedding options, please view this article in the Winter 2008 issue of BEDROOM Magazine.

 

Frames & Foundation Types (Source: Wikipedia.com)

 

There are three main types of foundations:

• Box-springs consist of a rigid frame which contains extra-heavy-duty springs. This type of foundation contributes to softer support and a bouncier mattress. The box-spring serves three main purposes: to help raise the mattress's height, making it easier to get in and out of bed; to help absorb shock and reduce wear to the mattress; and to help create a perfectly flat and firm structure for the mattress to lay upon.

• Zero Deflection or Ortho Box foundations are usually made of soft woods, such as pine, or hard woods, such as poplar. They usually consist of seven or eight support slats covered with cardboard or beaverboard. This type of foundation increases the feeling of firmness and stability.

• Grid foundations are made of of steel, at times in combination with wood and can come in many varieties and price ranges based on their unique features.