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Everyone wants a good night’s sleep. One way to get it is with the comfort and support of a memory foam mattress. These mattresses aren’t by any means new, but they’re becoming more popular every year. As more people use them, more and more are noticing that they’re losing some support over time and that’s when people start to ask if putting plywood under memory mattress will help and how to do it properly.
What happens is that the foam can sink and sag between the slats, stealing away some of the much-desired comfort and support. Some newer beds can be purchased with the option of a solid base instead of slats, giving them even support for a memory foam mattress from day 1, but not everyone buys a new bed frame when they get a new mattress.
If you already have a memory foam mattress and have noticed it beginning to sink, rather than shelling out for a whole new mattress, you could extend the life of it by simply adding plywood panels between the mattress and the slats. Adding solid panels provides an even and reliable memory foam mattress foundation.
However, sometimes a mattress has naturally reached the end of its anticipated lifespan. This is somewhere around 10 years for a memory foam mattress and 5 to 8 years for other mattress types. If you are in the market for a new one, we recommend the top-quality and affordable Vibe Gel Memory Foam Mattress with this review.
How to put plywood under memory foam mattress:
Putting plywood under memory foam mattress might seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually an easy DIY that you can do in minutes! Just follow these 3 simple steps and you’ll be ready for an even better rest.
Step 1. Measure.
Take a measurement of the surface area of the bed base. Get a panel or panels of plywood cut to size at a hardware store. AB or BC grade plywood is the type we would choose, and it needs to be a minimum of 3/4” thick to be strong enough and rigid enough to provide support.
Step 2. Install.
Either partially lift or entirely remove the mattress and place the cut panel(s) on the bed base. Lay the mattress back on top of the panel(s).
Step 3. Test.
Make sure the mattress is placed correctly by listening for any bending or creaking when laying or moving around on the bed. If you hear no sounds, the plywood has been placed correctly!
Ta-dah, you did it!
It is important to note that solid plywood panel(s) will prevent the mattress from breathing, which can cause mold or mildew to occur. Combat this by periodically airing out and rotating the mattress and making sure there is sufficient airflow underneath the bed.
Benefits of putting plywood under memory foam mattress:
There are a few problems that memory foam mattress owners notice that could be remedied with the addition of plywood panels.
Sagging spots
Sleeping in a particular position or place in the bed can cause a dip to appear. Rotating a mattress by 180-degrees every few months and flipping it over can help this, but adding plywood underneath can provide an even resistance to sagging spots.
Extend the life of a memory foam mattress
If a once-firm mattress feels like it’s going soft all over, it may be nearly time to replace it. Give it a boost before you shop for a new one by adding plywood. It will support the entire mattress surface, making the whole bed feel firmer.
Wrong bed base
There are many kinds of bed bases available these days, and not all of them are the perfect solution for a memory foam mattress. Having a soft box spring base, spaced out or flexible slats, or a base that’s bigger than the mattress can all cause support problems. This poor support means the mattress can dip or sag unevenly, causing damage to the mattress and a less than perfect night’s sleep for you. Using plywood under memory foam mattress to make a solid base will correct that with one quick and inexpensive DIY.
Now You Know: How to put plywood under memory foam mattress correctly
So, there you have it. Adding plywood under memory foam mattress is a fast and cost-effective way to fix sagging memory foam and other types of mattresses. Even though it sounds like a big task, we’ve walked you through how quick and easy it is to do. We definitely recommend having someone to help you, as maneuvering a mattress solo is one of the hardest parts of this fix!
It is also worth noting that while putting plywood under a memory foam mattress will provide a few more years of support, it is not a permanent solution. Mattresses do need to be replaced over time due to the natural breakdown of materials and for hygiene reasons, but plywood can help solve a problem with the bed base support. Rotating, airing, using a waterproof protective cover, and getting periodic professional cleanings can also help to prolong the life of your mattress, regardless of type.
The best thing you can do for a new memory foam mattress is to make sure you’re using an appropriate bed frame to support it. A solid or slatted foundation is ideal for supporting both you and the mattress. If you choose a slatted base, make sure the slats have no more than a 3” gap in between, as this would need the DIY plywood fix from the start.
A mattress is an investment in your health and wellbeing. If you look after it, it will look after you for many years.
How to put plywood under memory foam mattress FAQs
Can I put plywood under my mattress?
Yes! Plywood can add additional support under almost any kind of mattress, not just memory foam. With this mattress types growing popularity, plywood under memory foam mattress applications are just one of the most searched item.
How thick should plywood under memory foam mattress be?
A minimum thickness of 3/4” is needed for plywood to have enough strength and stiffness to support a memory foam mattress.
What else can you put under a memory foam mattress?
If you don’t want to DIY your way to a better night’s sleep with plywood, a bunkie board is an alternative pre-finished option. If you’re looking to replace the bed frame altogether, you can get an even support and foundation from a platform bed or a rigid box spring base. Both provide a solid surface to reinforce the memory foam and prevent sagging or sinking.