We just moved. Before setting up the King bed again I want a proper foundation. It was on a split box spring on the bed frame which I didn’t realize wasn’t a proper support.
My options are: directly on floor (will only be here a year and after getting rid of most of our furniture in downsizing my partner is reluctant to buy more furniture); a new wood or metal properly slatted foundation; or a bunky board, preferably split, on my old bed frame which does have a center support.
What’s the most economical but properly supportive solution?
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You should take a peek at the Terra Foundation by Mattressfoundations.com.
I am not certain what your definition of economical is. What I can express is that a bad foundation will take down a good mattress. So be certain your foundation checks all the boxes.
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I am in a similar situation! My current bed frame has slats 8 inches apart, which is likely made for a box spring (which after all my tiresome research, apparently doesn’t mix with latex). I have 1 inch plywood cut to size over the slats to provide a solid foundation for a latex bed, but what I didn’t realize is that the latex needs air circulation underneath (which setting the mattress directly on the floor wouldn’t provide). So I am going to drill holes in the plywood to allow some air circulation, as well as buy a coconut mat to go on top of the plywood. I feel like that would be the most economical without having to worry about any mold or mildew issues on or in your mattress. But if your old bed frame has a center support and slats 2-3 inches max apart, that would work too! Let me know what you end up doing ◡̈
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So how does a bucky board work as a support, which I’ve seen recommended, as that wouldn’t be allowing circulation.
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Hi @KADMAR1, welcome and congrats on the move.
For a 4 layer Dunlop latex King, proper support is key to prevent sagging and maintain the feel of the mattress. Since you are in a temporary living situation and aiming for something economical but supportive, here is a breakdown of your options:
Directly on the floor: It is fine short term and actually offers great support but do be mindful of airflow and moisture. If the room is humid or carpeted, mold can be a concern. You could lay a moisture barrier or even some breathable slats on the floor to help.
Bunky board on your old frame with center support: This is a solid budget friendly choice. Just make sure the bunky board is rigid ¾” thick or more and covers edge to edge. Since your frame already has a center rail, you should be good structurally.
New slatted wood or metal foundation: Best for long term durability especially if you plan to keep it for future use. Just be sure the slats are no more than 3 inches apart and ideally have a center rail with legs for full King support. Some metal options on amazon or Wayfair are well reviewed and not too pricey.
Most economical, supportive pick right now: A split bunky board on your existing frame gives you proper support without buying new furniture you will only use for a year.
Hope this helps, let us know what you end up going with
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Thanks very much, how does the bunky board fit in with a need for circulation?
Great question, @KADMAR1!
Bunky boards do provide solid support, but they do not allow for much airflow underneath the mattress especially compared to slatted foundations. That is the trade off.
If you go with a solid bunky board, you can help reduce moisture buildup by:
- Using a breathable mattress cover like a wool or cotton protector.
- Lifting the mattress occasionally to let it air out.
- Ensuring the room itself has good ventilation and low humidity.
Alternatively, some bunky boards are now made with ventilated or slatted designs which offer more airflow while still giving that flat surface latex mattresses love. You might look for one labeled as “slatted bunky board” or “vented platform insert” that would give you a good balance between support and breathability.
Let me know if you want links to some breathable options, happy to help
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Yeah I just learned about bunk boards last week! I assume they are similar to having plywood… I know not all mattresses require as much circulation as apparently latex does, so to be safe I think I am going to go with coconut mats and drilling holes in the plywood. Let me know if you come up with anything else!
@sana786 Thanks, some links to vented options (with appropriate <3” slat spacing if slatted) would be very helpful!
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Terra is out of my price range for right now but thanks
If the terra is out if the price range look at the big fig or something like this.
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