Mattress Foundation Sizes and Dimensions Guide

The goal of a mattress foundation is to provide support and sturdiness to your mattress. Foundations are available in all standard mattress sizes and come in a variety of styles. Your ideal mattress foundation will provide your bed with added height and stability.

In this post, we will take a look at the benefits of mattress foundations, the different types of foundations, and the sizes. In addition, we’ll discuss recommended room dimensions for every mattress foundation size to help you find a good fit for your living space. Let’s get started!

Mattress Foundation Dimensions

Twin Size Mattress Foundation

The twin size mattresses measure 38 inches by 75 inches. A mattress foundation with these dimensions is affordable and doesn’t take up a lot of space. This is ideal for small rooms, single sleepers, kids, and teens

To fit a twin size bed frame, your room should be at least 7 feet by 10 feet. Keep in mind that the 2-foot rule states that you should have at least two feet of walking space around your bed and bed frame.

Twin XL Size Mattress Foundation

The dimensions of a twin xl size mattress are 38 inches by 80 inches. When you choose to step up to the twin XL size mattress foundation, you get five extra inches of legroom (in comparison to a twin).

To fit a twin XL size bed frame, your room should be at least 8 feet by 10 feet.

Full Size Mattress Foundation

The dimensions of a full size mattress are 54 inches by 75 inches. This mattress foundation size is great for single sleepers who need some extra length and have the extra room for a bed of this size. Your room should measure at least 10 feet by 12 feet to fit a full size mattress.

Queen Size Mattress Foundation

The dimensions of a queen size mattress are 60 inches by 80 inches. A queen bed is common for couples and solo sleepers who want extra room. Queen beds are a great choice for couples with limited bedroom space because they still comfortably sleep two adults without taking up too much room.

Your room should measure 10 feet by 14 feet to comfortably fit a queen size mattress. These measurements allow you plenty of space to walk around the room and also fit a few pieces of small furniture.

King Size Mattress Foundation

The dimensions of a king size mattress are 76 inches by 80 inches. Stepping up to a king bed is recommended for couples who need ample room to sleep soundly or those who plan to share their bed with their children. By choosing to go with a king size, you won’t have to worry about rolling over the edge of the bed or feeling cramped while you sleep.

The added space in a king bed can also result in less frequent sleep disturbances as your partner moves in their sleep. A room with dimensions 13 feet by 13 feet is needed for a king size mattress.

California King Size Mattress Foundation

The dimensions of a California king are 72 inches by 84 inches. A California king size bed is a good option for taller individuals who want some extra length added to their mattress. Keep in mind that this mattress option is a little more narrow than the standard king size.

Your room should be at least 14 feet by 12 feet to fit a California king size mattress. These measurements give you plenty of space to walk about the room freely, while also allowing room for other bedroom furniture.

Types of Mattress Foundations

Mattress foundations are designed to support your mattress and keep it up off the floor. By placing your mattress on a mattress foundation, you can better protect your mattress from unnecessary wear and tear. In the next section, we review the most common types of mattress foundations.

Slatted

A slatted foundation features slats, planks, or metal beams that lie horizontally across the base of the foundation. These slats are spaced to provide sturdy support for your mattress, but the spacing between slats may vary from foundation to foundation.

Solid

A solid foundation is similar to a slatted foundation, but instead of containing multiple slats, it is made with a solid sheet of wood. These foundations are thought to provide the most durable of support, however, the lack of gaps between slats hinders airflow. Sleepers who want extra support from their foundation may prefer a solid foundation over a slatted alternative. On the other hand, extra hot sleepers might want to avoid these bed frames.

Platform Bed

A platform bed is usually made of wood with slats that stretch across the bed frame in a horizontal pattern. When you choose to purchase a platform bed, you won’t need to get a boxspring or foundation. Platform beds are 6 to 18 inches tall and may come with a headboard and footboard.

Adjustable Bed Frame

An adjustable bed frame improves your sleep unlike any other bed frame because it allows for head and foot articulation. Elevating your head and feet while you sleep offers a variety of benefits and can help sleepers with conditions like sleep apnea, acid reflux, Restless Legs Syndrome, chronic snoring, and more. Plus, sleepers can adjust to the zero-gravity position on these frames to experience “weightless” sleep.   The zero-gravity sleeping position can help to reduce body aches, eliminate pressure points, and improve circulation.

Adjustable bed frames are compatible with all mattress types, aside from some innerspring mattresses.

Bunkie Board

A bunkie board is a go-to when individuals don’t want or need a thick mattress foundation. This thin foundation is commonly used in conjunction with memory foam and latex mattresses because they offer the stable support foam layers need. These are also commonly used on top of slatted foundations and box springs to create a solid surface. Bunkie boards are made of either plywood or particleboard.

Box Spring

A box spring is of a wooden frame with springs covered in cloth. A box spring can be placed on the floor, or on a metal bed frame and is the most cost-effective of the mattress foundations.

Even though box springs were the most popular foundation many years ago, they’ve now been replaced by modern slatted and solid foundations. Box springs are not compatible with memory foam mattresses or hybrid mattresses, so they really only work with innerspring beds, anyway.

FAQS

How is mattress foundation size measured?

While mattress foundations are designed to fit standard mattress sizes and bed frame sizes, the foundation’s actual size is measured in thickness. You can check the thickness of a mattress foundation by measuring its height when it is placed flat on the floor. Mattress foundation thicknesses range from 4 to 18 inches.

Do I need a foundation for my mattress?

A mattress foundation will keep your mattress clean and help you to avoid any unnecessary wear and tear. Mattress foundations are also key in providing added support and height to your mattress.

Can I place my mattress on the floor?

Because a mattress foundation adds an extra expense in mattress shopping, many shoppers wonder whether it’s actually worth it. Some venture to ask, “Can’t I just place my mattress on the floor to save money?” While it may seem like a good idea, sleep experts warn against it.

When you place your mattress on the floor, you’re exposing it to dust, allergens, and insect damage. In addition, you may be unknowingly voiding your mattress warranty. If you are a side sleeper, you may notice issues with too much pressure on your hips and shoulders. Those who are older or have trouble getting around will find that placing their mattress on the floor makes getting out of bed more difficult.

Do you need a foundation for a memory foam mattress?

Yes, a foundation is recommended for a memory foam mattress. Placing a mattress like this directly onto the floor can lead to mold, water damage, or pest/insect issues. The best foundation option for a memory foam mattress is a solid foundation or a platform bed. Box springs and widely slatted foundations are not good options for a memory foam mattress.

Is a foundation the same as a box spring?

While both of these are bed bases, they differ greatly in the benefits that they offer. A box spring offers good shock absorption, breathability, and decent mattress support. However, a box spring isn’t compatible or recommended for most mattress types.

In comparison, a mattress foundation will work with all mattress types to provide you long-lasting even support. Plus, with a foundation, you’ll be able to prevent premature mattress sagging.

Conclusion

A good mattress foundation will help you to maintain a high-quality mattress for years to come, regardless of the size of your mattress. Before you embark on your next mattress shopping adventure, take the time to look at the different mattress foundations out there. Make sure you find one that will pair well with your budget and aesthetic preferences. In addition, you’ll need to know the dimensions of your space, to determine which mattress foundation dimensions make the most sense.