Platform beds
These days, more and more people are tossing out those old box springs in favor of platform beds. They offer the same level of comfort and support, with one less thing to worry about buying and periodically replacing. Platform beds also have a more modern and stylish appearance that many people enjoy.
When choosing a mattress for a platform bed, there are some things that you need to take into consideration, and we cover all of them in this helpful guide. Our top recommendation for most people is the Saatva Classic Mattress because it comes in several plushness options and offers a nice balance of support and pressure relief. Of course, not everyone likes the same kind of sleeping surface, and if you are unsure of what kind you like, you’ll want to keep reading to learn about the pros and cons of the various types.
Mattresses suitable for a platform bed
One of the great things about platform beds is that you can use any type of mattress you want with them. You will, however, need to keep in mind the construction of your platform bed and the mattress manufacturer’s recommendations and warranty guidelines.
Memory foam
Memory foam mattresses are a top choice for many people. They offer a high level of support, while conforming to the shape of your body and being soft enough for optimal pressure relief. They are quite durable too and can easily last eight years or more. The ideal platform bed construction for a memory foam mattress will be slatted, with no more than four inches of space between each slat.
Latex
Latex offers similar durability and longevity to memory foam, but it is firmer, which makes it a better sleeping surface for people who like harder beds. The material is hypoallergenic, and if you choose a natural latex mattress, free from synthetic chemicals. Because latex mattresses are very heavy, they should only be used on very sturdy platform beds with a high weight capacity. Also as with memory foam mattresses, latex mattresses are best for beds with slats no more than four inches apart.
Innerspring
Most people are familiar with innerspring mattresses and have slept on them at least once in their life. They are very bouncy and offer a lot of airflow, which makes them a good choice for those who tend to sleep hot. However, coil mattresses aren’t very durable and generally wear out within just five or six years. They also don’t conform well to the shape of your body, which means they can be lacking in support and pressure relief.
When choosing an innerspring mattress for a platform bed, you need to check that it is designed for use with one, as not all are. Also, make sure that you won’t void the warranty by using the innerspring mattress without a platform bed.
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses combine two mattress types, most often memory foam and innerspring. Many may find this offers just the right balance of support, pressure relief, firmness and airflow for their needs. They tend to last slightly longer than innerspring mattresses, but not as long as pure memory foam ones. Hybrid mattresses work well with platform beds, but as with innerspring models, you’ll need to check that the specific one you are considering is intended for use with a platform bed and doesn’t require a box spring to preserve the warranty.
Mattress features
Thickness
Because you won’t be using a box spring with your mattress on a platform bed, you should buy a mattress that is at least 10 inches thick and ideally 12 to 14 inches thick. Anything thinner than that and the bed may feel a bit too low for the average person. However, for children and elderly individuals who may struggle getting in and out of a bed that is too high, an 8-inch mattress may be the perfect choice.
Firmness and support
There is no ideal mattress for every person. Each individual has a different preference for firmness and support, so it is hard to give a recommendation on which mattress will be best for your needs. However, there are some guidelines that can help.
Firm mattresses offer more support than soft ones, however memory foam manages to be both soft and supportive. If you like to feel like you are sleeping on top of the mattress, latex or innerspring may be your best option, but if you prefer to feel like you are sinking into the mattress, a memory foam mattress should be considered. Hybrid mattresses offer an experience between these two extremes. It should be noted that studies show that mattresses with medium firmness are best for those with back problems.
Cooling technology
Latex, innerspring and hybrid mattresses are naturally breathable, so they should help you stay cool when sleeping. This is not the case for memory foam, which tends to trap heat. If choosing a memory foam mattress, look for one with cooling technology, such as a gel layer, perforations or other design features that improve airflow.
Trial period
Some people may be hesitant to buy a mattress online, however most manufacturers offer in-home trial periods that should negate this worry. All of our recommendations include a minimum of a 100-day in-home trial.
Cost of a mattress for a platform bed
Because you can use pretty much any kind of mattress on a platform bed, you can find an option to suit any budget. As a general rule of thumb, we recommend avoiding any mattress that costs less than $500, as they usually don’t last long nor provide an adequate level of support. On the budget side of the spectrum, expect to spend between $500 and $800 and up to $2,000 or more for luxury mattresses.
Platform bed mattress FAQ
Do I need to flip my mattress over periodically?
A. Most mattresses these days don’t need to be flipped unless they are marketed as being flippable or double sided. You should read the manufacturer’s guidelines for whichever mattress you buy to learn the best way to care for it. Most recommend rotating the mattress every three to six months.
Should I use a box spring with a mattress on a platform bed?
A. Platform beds are designed to offer a comfortable height for your sleeping surface without the use of a box spring. They are also designed to provide mattresses with enough support that a box spring isn’t necessary. However, you are certainly welcome to use a box spring with a platform bed if you want a bit of extra height.
Which mattress should I get for a platform bed?
Best of the best mattress for a platform bed
Saatva Classic Mattress: available at Saatva
Our take: The Saatva Classic is a hybrid mattress that offers the right balance of luxury and affordability for many users.
What we like: It is available in three comfort levels to suit every sleeper and features a patented spinal support zone.
What we dislike: It has more motion transfer than pure memory foam mattresses.
Best bang for your buck mattress for a platform bed
Leesa Studio: available at Leesa and Amazon
Our take: A bargain-priced option that is surprisingly high-quality and supportive, the Leesa Studio offers outstanding value for the cost.
What we like: It’s made with three layers of foam, each with a different density for comfort, support and pressure relief.
What we dislike: At 10 inches, it may feel a bit too low for some.
Honorable mention mattress for a platform bed
Dreamcloud Luxury Hybrid: available at Dreamcloud and Amazon
Our take: Combines pocket-spring coils with several layers of memory foam to create a sleeping surface you’ll sink right into while still feeling supported.
What we like: With a 365-day in-home trial and lifetime warranty, the company stands behind their product.
What we dislike: It is very heavy and can be difficult to move.
Brett Dvoretz is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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