These serve as both a frame and foundation, providing stability and support while keeping the mattress elevated off the ground. There are several alternatives you can choose from, with something ideal for every mattress type.

If your mattress warranty indicates a box spring is advised.

If you have trouble getting into or out of bed, and raising the mattress height helps.

If you have a traditional innerspring mattress.

Shaunl/Getty Images Who should still use a box spring?Ī box spring should still be used under a few circumstances, such as: Tuft & Needle also makes its own version called the Box Foundation, a product which its site refers to as an upgraded box spring.

Brooklyn Bedding makes a Ready-to-Assemble Box Foundation that looks and feels like a traditional box spring with the added center support box springs typically lack. Casper makes a 'box spring alternative' called The Foundation that works with its foam mattresses, while GhostBed sells a box spring/metal frame/foundation combo called the All-in-One Foundation. Some companies are creating their own alternatives to box springs. Some brands make their own box spring alternatives Follow the manufacturer's instructions so you won't end up voiding the warranty by using the wrong type of foundation or frame with your mattress. This information can be found on the website of the mattress manufacturer or retailer, or on the tag attached to the mattress. It's also important to do research on the warranty for your mattress.

Since there's some variation across brands here, it's best to check with customer support to find out your own mattress brand's advice. Helix also approves box springs with its mattresses, but only if slats are less than 5 inches apart and a piece of plywood or other proper center support is added. Modern mattress brand Saatva suggests that box springs may be used with its mattresses if the box spring is less than 7 years old and has proper center support and the slats are less than 4 inches apart. On the other hand, there are some exceptions.

Full size box spring