How to Build a Memory Foam Mattress Foundation: Follow These Steps

Finding a good mattress is only one important part of getting good quality sleep. If you’ve chosen a memory foam mattress, you are already on the right track to restful sleep. However, the other part is the foundation that your mattress relies on for stability support. So, if you’ve been craving a DIY project lately, or you want to save some money, follow our guide here on how to build a memory foam mattress foundation!

The foundation is the structure that raises the mattress off the floor to provide optimal breathability within the mattress, as well as absorbing shocks and vibrations.

The foundation is used to prevent sagging in memory foam mattresses by offering extra stability. Proper support of the mattress will also help prevent back, hip, and joint pain. Additionally, a mattress foundation will prolong the lifespan of your mattress.

When you spend valuable time and money towards finding the right memory foam mattress, you don’t want to be throwing it right onto the floor or your bed frame. This mattress is going to provide the support you need for a long time, so you may need to return the favor by providing the mattress with some form of support!

Steps to Build a Memory Foam Mattress Foundation

Here are six steps on how to build a memory foam mattress foundation.

Step #1: Prepare the Materials and Tools

how to build a memory foam mattress foundation

Being prepared and having the tools ready will make this go a lot smoother. Here is what you will need to begin building:

  • Tape measure
  • Plywood
  • Drill
  • Circular saw
  • Nails
  • Screws
  • Hammer
  • Wood glue

You also might want to remember to bring your patience! Building a bed takes some time, so don’t expect to finish in one day. Also, it’s always smart to purchase a couple extra pieces of plywood just in case.

Step #2: Take Measurements

Once you have your tools sorted out, measure the mattress and write down the measurements you need. Below are some general measurements of standard sized beds.

  • Twin: 38” x 75”
  • Twin XL: 38” x 80”
  • Double: 53” x 75”
  • Queen: 60” x 80”
  • King: 76” x 80”

Measure from the foot of the mattress to the head area for the length. Measure from side to side for the width. You will want to cut your pieces to the correct size, so make sure that your measurements are accurate.

Now it’s time to go to a hardware store to purchase the wood. The wood will most likely come in 2x4s.

Step #3: Start Putting Together the Frame

how to build a memory foam mattress foundation

If you want a more personalized touch, now would be the time to sand it, treat it or paint it. If you decide to do another of these, make sure to leave enough time for it to dry before proceeding with the next steps.

Now you can start to build the frame by adding wood glue to each corner of the 2×4’s where they meet. Next, screw them together. This will help you put together the rest.

For example, cuts for a queen should look something like this:

  • 12 Pieces: 1 x 4 x 56.5”
  • 2 Pieces: 2 x 6 x 79”
  • 2 Pieces: 2 x 6 x 6.56.5”

Once the frame is up, make sure you have a single beam for the center in order to add extra support for the wooden slats.

Step #4: Add Wooden Slats

The plywood wooden slats are essentially the cross beams that provide the most support underneath your mattress. You can decide how many you want, but keep in mind that the more slats you have the more stability you will get.

Glue the slats into place first, and then screw directly into the 2×4’s measuring ¾” from the edge. Make sure to stagger the screws to avoid splitting.

Once the overall frame is completed, measure from the floor up to the bottom of the frame.

Step #5: Build the Legs

The last step to building is to cut the legs from the remaining plywood. Use the measurements you had taken from the floor to the frame, draw a line, and cut.

Flip the frame upside down if you can, or have someone hold it up from the corner you are adding the leg to. Glue the leg to where the two corners meet and screw it together.

Step #6: Assemble Together

how to build a memory foam mattress foundation

The last step is to add the memory foam mattress on top so that you can test out your new foundation!

FAQs About Mattress Foundations

What Kind of Mattress Foundations Are There?

There are multiple mattress foundations available. There are metal box springs, platform bases, metal bed frames, wooden bed frames, as well as bunkie boards. It’s up to your individual preferences to find out which one is best for you. As long as it supports your mattress, you can’t go wrong with any of them!

How Long Does It Take to Put Together a Mattress Foundation?

Putting together a mattress foundation can take anywhere from a couple hours to a day or two depending on how you are building it and the material you’re using. A wooden slat bed frame may take a few hours, while a metal bed frame may take longer due to the difficulty and welding that is required. If you are personalizing your foundation, that will also add to the overall time.

Bottom Line

So, how to build a memory foam mattress foundation? Be prepared, measure, measure again, and don’t take yourself too seriously during this process. 

Have fun, personalize it, and remember that you are doing it for your well-being. Remember that having a memory foam mattress will benefit you most if it’s supported properly!

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