Best Memory Foam Mattress Foundation 2023 Reviews: Top 8
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Before presenting you with our best memory foam mattress foundation 2023 reviews let’s first explain why you may need to use a mattress foundation and not just lay the mattress on the floor. One major reason may be the fact that your warranty may be invalid if you lay your memory foam mattress on the floor, rather than on a regular foundation or base.
Another is that your bedding will be lying on the floor – liable to get dirty fairly rapidly. In addition to that, your mattress will have no protection from dust mites living on your skin cells lying on the floor, and if that is not enough, from occasional insect and spider attacks. A raised bed provides many different types of protection. Apart from all that, it’s easier to get onto your mattress at night and onto your feet in the morning if you are above floor level. So let’s assume that a mattress foundation is a good thing to have!
In our Best Memory Foam Mattress Foundation 2023 Reviews I will explain:
- The types of mattress foundation that are suitable for memory foam mattresses.
- Our top 8 memory foam mattress foundations in 2023.
- A Buyers Guide to help you make your choice.
- Some questions we are frequently asked about memory foam mattress foundations.
Types of Mattress Foundation For a Memory Foam Mattress
There are three commonly used types of mattress foundation that we can recommend. These are:
- Solid platform bases – these are good as any foam mattress foundation.
- Slatted bases – this is a good memory foam foundation.
- Metal frame foundations – generally a foldable memory foam bed frame.
- Adjustable bed frame for memory foam mattresses.
First, here are our top 8 best memory foam mattress foundations in 2023. These are presented in our personal order of preference. You may not agree with us, but you can use our information and our Buyer’s Guide to come to your own decision.
We are using the King size foundation for our review.
Best Memory Foam Mattress Foundation
| Ranking | Brand and Name | Type | Dimensions " | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Zinus Upholstered Diamond (Best-Quality) | Slatted Wood | 83.9 x 78 x 39.5 | View on Amazon | |
| #2 | Zinus 14-Inch Deluxe Wood (Stylish) | Slatted Wood | 79.5 x 75.5 x 14 | View on Amazon | |
| #3 | Zinus Upholstered Square (Best Air Circulation) | Slatted Wood | 87.5 x 80.3 x 40.5 | View on Amazon | |
| #4 | Zinus Premium Smartbase 18-In (Bestseller Steel Frame) | Metal Frame | 80 x 76 x 18 | View on Amazon | |
| #5 | Olee Sleep Steel Frame | Metal Frame | 80 x 76 x 14 | View on Amazon | |
| #6 | Classic Brands Adjustable | Adjustable | 80 x 76 x 14 | View on Amazon | |
| #7 | Classic Brands Hercules (Best for Heavy Users) | Metal Frame | 80 x 76 x 13 | View on Amazon | |
| #8 | LUCID Foldable Metal Platform | Metal Frame | 80 x 76 x 13 | View on Amazon |
1. Zinus Upholstered Diamond Memory Foam Foundation
This is a slatted wood memory foam foundation. The wooden slats are closely spaced for maximum strength, while still maintaining a good level of air circulation. The upholstery is a soft grey material with diamond stitching with dark grey buttons. Any noise is avoided by the foam padded tape that covers the steel frame. This foundation is available in Twin, Full, Queen and King.
Dimensions:
Pros
- Wooden slats are well spaced to offer maximum support with good air circulation.
- Foam padded tape applied to steel frame prevents noise.
- Headboard included.
- Easy to assemble.
- Available in Twin, Full, Queen and King sizes.
- 5-year limited warranty.
Cons
- The slat spacing is slightly greater than we would have hoped for at around 4.5″. However, it supports a standard memory foam mattress perfectly.
- Otherwise, no negatives that we could find.
Editor’s Notes: The styling is excellent, with a soft grey upholstered headboard decorated with darker grey buttons. This frame remains silent even with the more vigorous night-time activities. It is well suited as a foundation for any type of memory foam mattress and you will find it very easy to assemble.
2. Zinus 14″ DeLuxe Slatted Wood Memory Foam Mattresses Frame
The Zinus 14-inch DeLuxe wood mattress frame provides slatted wood support for the mattress. This can help increase your memory foam mattress’s life. The frame is padded with foam to reduce any noise and a Velcro-like tape is stuck to the wooden slats to prevent any movement of the mattress. The only issue is that this frame is not intended to be used with a headboard or footboard.
With Mattress:
Pros
- 100% wood if that is what you prefer.
- The wood slats help to maintain the life of your mattress.
- Tools needed to put the parts together are supplied.
- The non-stick tape applied to the slats hold your mattress to the frame without slipping, and without harming the mattress.
- This frame remains silent even under the most vigorous of activities!
- Looks really stylish, and adds to the look of your bedroom.
- Available in Twin, Full, Queen and King sizes,
- Good 5-year warranty.
Cons
- Very few – some complaints regarding the frame loosening up after use. This is common with such furniture, and it’s wise to tighten up the screws and bolts of any self-assembly items after a few days use.
- No headboard or footboard available.
- Otherwise, we could find no negatives.
- The dimensions are a half-inch less than a standard King size mattress. Users say it fits their King size OK.
Editor’s Notes: This is a high quality memory foam mattress foundation – or a foundation or any type of mattress to be honest. The solid wood construction will look good in any bedroom, and it offers excellent support for a memory foam mattress. Although the King size is 0.5″ less than the standard King size mattress size, it seems to hold it well with no issues. All it means is that there may be a quarter-inch overhang all round. This will not affect a memory foam mattress, but it could affect an innerspring mattress that is fitted with strengthened sides.
3. Zinus Upholstered Square Foundation
The square here refers to the way the headboard is buttoned – in a square shape rather than a diamond shape. Otherwise, these are similar but of different dimensions. The headboard is covered with dark grey upholstery stitching a square pattern. The steel frame is padded with foam tape to prevent noise while in use – as the diamond Zinus foundation above.
Pros
- Wooden slats are well spaced to offer maximum support with good air circulation.
- Foam padded tape applied to steel frame prevents noise.
- Headboard included.
- A low-level footboard is also available.
- Easy to assemble.
- Available in Twin, Full, Queen and King sizes.
- 5-year limited warranty.
Cons
- As with the Pros, the Cons are the same as for the ‘Diamond’ slatted wood memory foam foundation above.
- Some people are finding Issues with the difference between the mattress size and the foundation dimensions. 80 x 60 King size mattresses are being found too large for this foundation. It seems like the foundation is not long enough to enable the headboard to be fitted without taking up some of the length needed for the mattress.
Editor’s Notes: This is similar to the slatted wood memory foam foundation above (our #1 choice). We would likely put this first equal were it not for the dimension issues mentioned above. Otherwise, it is another excellent wooden slatted foundation.
4. Zinus Premium SmartBase
Then Zinus SmartBase is a steel framed memory foam foundation. It has 17 inches of under-frame clearance which offers good under bed storage space if you need it. Once delivered, you need no tools to assemble it. It is best for mattresses of between six and ten inches thick. It can be fitted with a headboard, but unlike the Zinus foundations above, it does not come with one. You need to ask the supplier for SmartBase headboard brackets.
Pros
- Good clearance beneath the bed for storage.
- Good stability due to the 9-point leg arrangement (central three are double legs – as though the frame was made from two 6-leg frames attached to each other.)
- Helps maintain mattress life due to the high level of support provided.
- The frame is easily folded to move it up and down stairs and between rooms, if needed.
- Available in Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
Cons
- The construction requires the buyer to set up the frame using screws and wing nuts. This may lead it to be unstable or connections failing to cause the construction to be insecure. If the screws and wing nuts provided are not fixed correctly then issues are almost sure to arise.
Editor’s Notes: The Premium SmartBase is a good quality steel framed memory foam mattress foundation. Like those above, it can be used for other types of mattress, since no foundation is suitable for only one type of mattress. It meets the need for memory foam mattresses best not to be used on box spring foundations. Your bedroom floor is protected by the plastic caps that sit under the legs. However, there is a level of self-assembly required which might put some people off. Some have found it more stable when the wing nuts are tightened with pliers.
5. Olee Sleep Steel Frame
The Olee Sleep steel frame is suitable for memory foam mattresses. Its steel construction can support the heaviest mattresses, and its foldable design enables it to be easily moved between rooms. The tools needed to put it together are provided in the package. There is a 13-inch high space underneath it for storage boxes or any other form of storage. It is an excellent, stable foundation for any mattress but particularly memory foam mattresses that are not normally recommended to be supported by a box spring foundation.
Pros
- This strong and stable steel foundation is ideal for memory foam mattresses.
- The metal frame is designed to hold the mattress and prevent it sliding on the frame.
- Hard plastic cups for the legs make sure your floor is not scratched.
- Excellent customer service – issues are resolved quickly to the satisfaction of the customer.
- Slots are available on the end rails to fit a headboard.
- Available in Twin, Full, Queen and King sizes.
- 5 Year limited warranty
Cons
- As with any steel-framed construction intended for self-assembly, there can be issues with bolts or screws not fitting correctly.
- Otherwise no significant negatives.
Editor’s Notes: This steel frame is suitable for most foam mattresses, and, like those above, is kind to your floor. The warranty covers manufacturing defects. It is silent in use and does not rattle when you move as some less well designed frames of this type do. It can be moved between rooms without having to take it apart. It is easy to assemble using the tools provided.
6. Classic Brands Adjustable
The Classic Brands Adjustable mattress foundation includes a massage feature and two USB ports (both on the same side of the bed). The elevation positions are programmable as are the head and foot massage features. The features can be controlled by means of a wireless remote control handset.
Pros
- The adjustable functions are suitable for use with memory foam mattresses.
- The dual head and foot massage has a 3-speed adjustment to allow you to unwind and relax at night.
- Can also be used with latex and air mattresses.
- The legs are adjustable to offer three leg height positions 4″, 6.5″ or you can combine them for 10.5″.
- Also comes with a mattress retention foot retainer rail to stop your mattress sliding when adjusted.
- Available in Twin XL, Full, Queen, King
Cons
- This is not a wallhugger, meaning that when you raise the adjustment, the mattress does not move to keep you level with your night stand.
- As with many other electronically controlled devices, remote-controlled adjustable beds can fail for non-mechanical reasons. However, this seems to be better than average in this respect.
Editor’s Notes: This adjustable mattress foundation can be used with memory foam mattresses. It should be noted that the thicker then mattress, the less noticeable the massage feature. That’s because it operates from the surface of the frame. This is a good, high quality memory foam adjustable mattress foundation.
7. Classic Brands Hercules
The Classic Brands Hercules heavy duty memory foam mattress foundation is built to withstand heavyweights. If you are heavy built, then this is ideal for you. It is an excellent mattress foundation and frame in one, made from black steel with 13 inches of storage space underneath.
Pros
- Heavy duty foldable steel frame suitable for any type of mattress including memory foam.
- Suitable as a frame and as a foundation.
- Headboard and footboard brackets are available separately.
- 14 inches high, so the bed height will be 14 inches plus the thickness of the mattress sizes.
- Available in Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
- No tool needed for assembly.
- Customer service available7 days a week.
Cons
- The usual negatives with any foundation or frame that has to be assembled yourself (see our Buyer’s Guide’ below).
- The King size comes in the form of two twin size frames that are bolted together. This could leave a groove in the middle that may affect you if you have a thin mattress.
- Because of the above, the frame has to fitted together properly with both sides lined up correctly. If that is done then there should be no issues.
- Warranty details are not published.
Editors Notes: On the face of it this looks to be a good foundation for a memory foam mattress One issue is the warranty appears to be handled by a third party. That said, it seems as though the firm’s Customer Service is good, and that issues are generally resolved quickly. A positive aspect is that tools needed to put this memory foam mattress foundation together are provided in the package.
8. LUCID Foldable Metal Platform
The LUCID Foldable Metal Platform is a suitable foundation for memory foam mattresses. Because it is foldable, it can easily be moved between rooms or folded for storage. The heavy duty wire grid renders it suitable also for latex, polyfoam and innerspring mattresses. It offers similar benefits to other metal grid foundations.
Pros
- No tools needed to set it up.
- It is 13 inches high, providing good storage space beneath it.
- The frame is claimed to hold up to 2500 pounds weight.
- Available in Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King and Cal King sizes.
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Like many other King size metal frame foundations, it comprises two frames of smaller dimensions fitted together.
- All sizes from Full upwards are made in this way – by fitting two smaller frames together.
- Some issues with the wire construction not being strong enough for heavier-weight users.
Editor’s Notes: See our Buyer’s Guide below for more details of how to fit this type of frame together. Some appear to find problems with fitting such frames securely so they remain stable and quiet when in use. Often, when frames loosen up and become noisy, and even shaky, it is because the screws/bolts have not been tightened enough. Once you experience this, tighten everything up again and the issues should disappear.
Buyers Guide to the Best Memory Foam Mattress Foundation
When you are intending to buy a memory foam mattress foundation keep in mind that all you really need is a stable base on which to place the mattress. Memory foam is designed to work on a non-giving surface, meaning one that does not absorb the pressure of the mattress but instead supports it. What does that mean in practical terms?
What it means is that you can lay your memory foam mattress on the floor if you want but preferably not on a box spring foundation. Here’s why:
Box Spring Foundations: Boxspring foundations comprise a wooden frame containing steel springs secured within the frame. This type of foundation is designed to absorb the pressure of the mattress above it. However, the traditional type of box spring foundation is not suitable for use with memory foam. They are best for innerspring mattresses, so do not use a box spring base for your memory foam mattress. Also, refer to our FAQ section later.
If you do so, you may invalidate your warranty. If you want to use this type of foundation then first contact the mattress manufacturer for advice. Make sure this is the manufacturer and not the retailer, because retailer advice might not be supported by the manufacturer. So it’s easiest not to use this type of foundation. Stick with our advice!
So it’s the floor or a foundation either designed for a memory foam mattress or one that does itself not compress when pressure is applied to it – such as a box spring foundation. The floor can be difficult for some people to get down to or get up from, and also seems to be very Spartan to some people. It also does not allow air flow all round, which may lead to the formation of mold on the surface in contact with the floor.
Your serious options are wooden or metal foundations that support your mattress without absorbing its compression. You basically have two options wood or metal. Each has its own benefits. Here are the pros and cons of each:
Wooden Mattress Foundations: Wooden foundations generally tend to look better in a bedroom than metal frames. They look part of the furniture, and if needed can be painted to suit any color scheme you wish to use. Wood is a strong material, so don’t think that is will support you any less than steel. Steel is also good, but if the wood is good enough to hold up your roof, it’s certainly Ok for your bed!
Metal Mattress Foundations: Metal foundations are also strong, obviously! However many people feel that a metal mattress frame will provide better support than a wooden foundation. This is not always the case, because the weight the foundation has to support depends on the thickness of the metal frame and the bars/wires that support the body of the mattress. If the bars that run across the width of the frame bare too thin, they may cut into the mattress. The foundations we have chosen provide good support for your memory foam mattress.
Adjustable Foundations: This type of mattress foundation is usually of a metal frame construction. It enables the user to adjust the angles of the major areas of the bed. You can raise the head, the foot and change your sleeping angles. Some involve manual adjustments, although the majority of modern adjustable mattress foundations are operated wirelessly.
There are some, known as ‘wallhuggers’, that glide you back as it raises your head, and keeps you in line with your nightstand. Those in our review are not of this type. A benefit of memory foam mattresses is that they respond well to angle changes. It is generally not possible to use this type of foundation with innerspring mattresses, but it can be used with latex and polyfoam mattresses in addition to memory foam.
Anti-Slide Designs: Many mattress foundations are designed so that the mattress cannot slide around on them. This is generally achieved using sticky tape or some other anti-skid covering such as Velcro. Others may be designed in a framed design, with lips to prevent the mattress from moving one way or the other. Some are fitted with a footboard or foot retainer rail to prevent the mattress sliding down the foundation.
These are the most common types of memory foam mattress foundations. If you lay your mattress on the floor, on a sheet of plywood or on a box spring foundation, you would possibly breach your warranty. Try to avoid this if at all possible.
Our Recommendations: If you have a memory foam mattress, we recommend that you choose either a slatted wood or a metal frame foundation. Slats and metal bars allow air circulation round the mattress while in use. Adjustable foundations also permit an acceptable level of airflow while you are sleeping.
These are all the tips you should need when shopping for a memory foam mattress foundation. Our best memory foam mattress foundation 2023 reviews should give you enough information to purchase the best for your needs. It is often better to purchase online than from a mall store. Not only do you have a wider choice of products, but you can check out the warranty details and what you need to do to choose the best product to meet your needs.
Constructing a Mattress Foundation: When you are constructing your foundation you may have to use your own tools. Some provide the tools needed in the package. It is very important to follow the instructions provided exactly, and not cut corners because “You know better”! Make sure all screws are driven in fully and that the parts are connected tightly. Nuts/bolts should also be tightly connected.
Some parts may be connected with butterfly or wing nuts. It might pay you to use pliers or a spanner to tighten these better than you can by hand. Fundamentally, make sure that everything is connected tightly with no movement when you pull on them. Otherwise, frames may rattle and make a noise when you move around in bed.
Now here are some questions that people ask us before they make a decision to purchase.
Best Memory Foam Mattress Foundation: Frequently Asked Questions
When compiling information on how to choose the best type of mattress or mattress foundation for our needs, we often make good and bad decisions. Here are some of the more common questions we have been asked regarding memory foam mattress foundations.
1. Why can’t I use a box spring foundation with my memory foam mattress?
A memory foam mattress is designed to support your entire body correctly. It is essential that it lies flat when in use. You could use a box spring, but the trouble is that it could sink with the pressure of the mattress, particularly in the area of it that is taking most of your body weight. However, assuming that the box spring is new and provides a hard, flat surface for the memory foam mattress, then you can use it. Trouble is, some people put the memory foam mattress on their old box spring so the mattress cannot lie flat – that’s the issue, and why we do not recommend a box spring foundation.
2. What is the best type of memory foam mattress foundation?
Try not to use a solid board or a floor. You can use a mattress on the floor, the lack of airflow can lead to mold growth between the mattress and the floor. Any mattress needs a flow of air around it to keep it cool and keep it fresh. We don’t recommend a box spring unless it is new with a flat, firm top. The memory foam mattress foundations we recommend are the metal frame or slatted wood types, where there will be a good flow of air all round.
3. Can I use a plywood board on top of my existing box spring foundation?
First of all, placing a memory foam mattress on top of a wooden surface not designed for a mattress may invalidate your warranty. That is partially because the surface could abrade the mattress and damage it. If you must use aboard, then it should have some holes bored in it to allow air movement. It’s best not to use boards, but properly designed foundations.
4. Can I use these foundations for any mattress or just memory foam mattresses?
You can use any of these foundations with any foam mattress, including latex and polyurethane foams (polyfoam). Adjustable foundations are not suitable for innerspring mattresses.
5. Will the metal on steel frame foundations not harm the mattress?
No, it won’t. The metal surfaces are smooth, much the same as wood frames. Such foundations are designed and constructed to support foam mattresses. If they were unable to do this without damaging them then they wouldn’t sell very well.
- Zinus Upholstered Diamond
- Zinus 14-Inch Deluxe Wood
- Zinus Upholstered Square
- Zinus Premium Smartbase 18-In
- Olee Sleep Steel Frame
- Classic Brands Adjustable
- Classic Brands Hercules
- LUCID Foldable Metal Platform
4.7
Summary
Memory foam mattress works best when used on memory foam mattress foundations designed just for them. You may prefer a wooden foundation or a metal one, but it makes no difference. Each foundation and platform reviewed in our best memory foam mattress foundation reviews are of high quality and suitable for any memory foam mattress.
Betheda Gramling says
I have a queen-size bed with sideboards. head and footboards. I want to put a foam mattress on it and discard box springs. What are the problems with placing the new wooden frame for the foam being put inside my mahogany four side frame? Will the entire bed necessarily be lowered significantly so that the Headboard is exposed below the solid wood?
Gary Lawyer says
Good recommendations! I really loved the way you explained it. Buyer’s guide is also has good information.
Richard Morse says
Thank you Gary.
Genevieve Seery says
Classic Brands Hercules. it’s great bed frame/foundation. No need for a box spring with this. Easy to set up – took me about 45 minutes to unbox, put together, and open up the mattress (ordered separately) from the box and position on it. Very sturdy – doesn’t move or wobble at all.
Richard Morse says
It is a good choice Genevieve. I hope you are sleeping peacefully now 🙂
Jimmy Gehringer says
Is Classic Brands Adjustable high enough for under bed storage?
Richard Morse says
Yes but not much.
Howard Coffey says
Easy to set up. Classic Brands was amazing. Listing of the parts could be better, but for the most part, its easy to figure out.