Latex mattresses are cherished for their natural materials, pressure-relieving support, and long-lasting durability. However, the same qualities that make latex mattresses so appealing—dense construction, elastic comfort and heavier overall weight—also mean they require a very supportive, well-ventilated foundation. Below are key considerations to help you select the perfect bed frame for your latex mattress.
Support
A latex mattress can weigh significantly more than a standard foam or innerspring mattress. Look for a slatted bed frame made from rigid materials like wood or metal. Flexible materials will, at best, cause performance issues and, at worst, lead to premature failure.
Any slatted bedframe or mattress foundation must meet or exceed these specifications to qualify for the warranty on all our 100% latex mattresses:
- The slat spacing must be equal to or less than 2.5”
- The slat width must be equal to or greater than 2”
- The slats must be rigid (no bowed or flexible slats)
- There must be a center support supported by the floor
Our Coir Bunker Board can bring nearly any bed frame or foundation up to the warranty standard.
Ventilation
Latex naturally breathes better than most mattress types, but it still benefits from air circulation. Our preferred option is a well-slatted frame, as it promotes airflow, helping to regulate heat and moisture underneath the mattress.
Solid surfaces are permissible, but we do not cover mould under any circumstance. If you choose to use a solid surface, the mattress should be checked regularly, especially in the initial stages, to ensure no moisture is building up under the mattress. A solid platform with ventilation holes or channels is preferable over a completely solid surface.
With any bedframe, we recommend rotating your mattress regularly. This allows you to examine the mattress for moisture issues, helps air out the underside of the mattress, and creates a more consistent wear pattern. In certain high-moisture situations, a combination of a breathable bed frame, regular maintenance, and environmental control (dehumidifier, etc.) may be needed to prevent mould.
Types of Bed Frames
Three main types of foundations can be used to support your new mattress. We will review each of those so you can make a more informed decision about what’s best for you.
Platform Bed
A platform bed is a standalone bed frame with a sturdy, flat surface that supports a mattress without the need for a box spring. Typically made from wood, metal, or upholstered materials, it features clean lines and a minimalist design, ideal for modern or contemporary spaces. Many platform beds include built-in storage or headboards, offering functionality and style. The support system can be solid or slatted to ensure even mattress support, enhancing comfort and durability while providing a sleek, space-saving solution for any bedroom. A well-slated platform bed is our preferred option.
Mattress Foundation
A mattress foundation, often called a box spring, is a supportive base placed beneath a mattress to provide stability and height. Traditionally made with a wooden frame and metal springs, modern versions use wood slats or metal grids and fabric covers. Some mattress foundations have legs for standalone options, but most need to be combined with a metal foundation frame or bed frame. These frames almost never meet the warranty requirements of latex mattresses.
Adjustable Bed Frame
An adjustable bed is a motorized bed frame that allows users to elevate the head, foot, or both for customized comfort and support. Controlled by a remote or app, it’s ideal for reading, watching TV, or alleviating issues like acid reflux. Many models include features like massage, USB ports, and memory settings. Although there are many benefits to adjustable frames, there are also downsides that often get overlooked. Mainly, they put significant stress on certain points of a mattress and exponentially increase the likelihood of problems with your mattress, undoubtedly shortening its lifespan. Many features are also exaggerated (snoring) or not recommended by sleep experts (watching TV in bed) for a healthy, restorative sleep.
Bed Frame Add-Ons
We realize that buying a bedframe for a latex mattress can be onerous. The support system on most frames is not very good, no matter how much you spend so we offer a few easy fixes to make finding the right frame easier.
Coir Bunkie Board
Coir bunkie board is a breathable, semi-flexible latex of Coconut Rubber that provides firm support for a mattress without adding much height. Bunkie boards help prevent mattress sagging, ensuring even support and prolonging mattress life. Lightweight and easy to handle, they’re the perfect complement to any mattress foundation or platform bed.
Pegboard
A pegboard is a versatile, perforated board made from wood, metal, or hardboard, featuring evenly spaced holes for inserting hooks, pegs, or shelves. Commonly used for organizing tools, it can also reinforce bed frames while providing breathability. Most hardware stores will carry a variety of sizes and can also cut it to size for you.
Ignoring the role a foundation plays with a latex mattress will inevitably lead to disappointment. At the very least, it will lead to inconsistent support and, at worst, premature mattress failure. Our Coir Bunkie Board can bring nearly any bedframe up to the warranty standard while naturally maintaining breathability. If you have any questions about the bed frame, please email us, and we provide our expert opinion and approve warranty coverage in writing.
