Bed Height Matters In Your Foundation

Last Updated: July 12, 2023

When it comes to creating the perfect bed to sleep on, having something, like a box spring (also known as a foundation) or adjustable base, between the mattress itself and the floor is helpful. Making the proper selection depends on several factors.

Those extra four inches can make the difference between getting into bed, and jumping into bed!

Did you know that, historically, a box spring was a wood box filled with metal coils that added cushioning to the otherwise stiff mattresses of the time? Fast forward to today and the box spring no longer contains springs. While the name box spring has stuck, the more correct term is foundation.

Bed Height Matters

The main purpose of a foundation is to support the mattress and raise the sleeping surface to a comfortable height. This overall height includes mattress, foundation, and bed frame, and varies for each person. The height should be somewhere between your knee and hip.

Box springs or foundations come in two approximate heights: 9″ is the standard size and 5″ is low-profile. However, you should know that it is possible to custom order an ultra-low foundation that can stand 3″ or lower.

Taller mattresses like this are best paired with low-profile foundations.

Adjustable bases come in a variety of heights and take the place of a traditional foundation or box spring. It supports your mattress while also giving you the ability to sit upright by lifting the top portion of the mattress. More advanced adjustable bases give you options like lifting your feet or activating a massage feature. If you’re interested in getting an adjustable base but need more information, you can read our Adjustable Base Buying Guide at this link.

Bed Height = Comfort

Let’s be real, the average human ranges from 5′ 4″ for females to 5′ 9″ for males according to Our World in Data. The regular height of a bed frame is 7″, add to that the standard height of a foundation, 9″, and a mattress needs to be under 12″ tall to keep the overall bed height under 30″! Keep this in mind when you’re selecting new foundations for your bed!