Ditch Your Old Box Spring—These Are The 10 Best Mattresses For Platform Beds

Are you redecorating your dated bedroom or furnishing a new guest room? If so, you’ve probably been inundated with a plethora of platform bed frames. This modern foundation type that allows you to toss your worn out box spring has quickly become a popular choice as it adds both style and function to any space.

A platform bed is also affordable and compatible with most mattresses—but not all. The best mattresses for platform beds not only take into consideration your sleep style and ideal firmness level, but also sit high enough off the frame to be comfortable. The best mattresses for platform beds include our favorites from Nectar, Avocado and Saatva.

If you’re looking for a starting place, we recommend the fan favorite Nectar Premier Copper , which also tops our list of the best mattresses . Since it’s constructed with 14 inches of premium materials and gives the option of choosing a hybrid or memory foam design, it’s ideal for a platform bed frame and suits a wide range of sleepers.

But we don’t stop there–we offer a list of other top rated mattresses for platform bed frames that we found to be comfortable, accommodating and of good value. Best Mattress For A Platform Bed Overall Nectar Type: Memory foam or hybrid | Firmness: Medium firm | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 365 nights | Warranty: Lifetime With a breathable copper cover, 14 inches of premium materials and the option to choose between hybrid or memory foam, it’s no surprise the Nectar Premier Copper is a fan favorite.

While the hybrid model is slightly more expensive than its counterpart, it might be worth it for those who prefer additional support or don’t like the feeling of sinking into a mattress. The signature cover (which tops both models) features copper fibers that the manufacturer says are designed to dispel heat and wick away excess body moisture.

The key difference between the memory foam and hybrid options lies in the construction. For instance, foam makes up the entirety of the memory foam mattress. The 7 inch stability base layer creates the foundation for better sleep and allows the layers above to perform at their peak. Three inches of foam in the center promote better spinal alignment and provides airflow and therapeutic gel infused foam near the top reacts to your temperature and contours to every curve for support.

Even though the hybrid model isn’t constructed completely of foam, it still includes several foam layers for comfort and optimal spinal alignment. Sitting atop the base layer are 8 inches of individually wrapped coils that have minimal motion transfer and superior edge to edge support that responds to your body’s curves.

The coils also allow for additional airflow through the mattress. Pros: Cons: What our editors and the reviews say : After testing the memory foam model , Forbes Vetted contributor Lindsay Vickers notes she finds the sink in feeling pleasant, even as someone who prefers a firmer mattress. However, she thinks the bed is most comfortable when sleeping on her side or back, and notes it also retains some heat.

One customer writes about the Nectar Premier Copper, “This was totally worth every penny that we spent. I used to be a terrible sleeper, and now I have restful nights. This bed is amazing, and I tell everyone that I know they need to buy it. I can not say enough good things about it.” Best Comfortable Mattress For A Platform Bed Dreamcloud Type: Hybrid | Firmness: Medium firm | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 365 nights | Warranty: Lifetime If comfort is your main concern, The Dreamcloud could be the ideal fit.

With the perfect combination of squishy memory foam and supportive coils, it’s one of the company’s best selling models. One inch of gel infused memory foam hugs your body and adapts to your curves, while 2 inches of standard foam encourages proper spinal alignment and ensures you’ll never feel the springs.

Each of the springs are wrapped separately, allowing them to move independently. In fact, it’s highly recommended for couples, thanks to the coils’ ability to minimize motion transfer—so you no longer have to worry about your partner’s restless tossing and turning. From top to bottom, each layer was designed to be breathable, from the cashmere blend cover to the cooling memory foam.

This 14 inch hybrid mattress is compatible with any solid surface bed base and is lofty enough to help you get in and out of bed comfortably. It’s rated a 6.5 out of 10 for a medium firm feel ideal for many sleepers. Plus, at under $700, it’s an excellent value. Don’t forget about the generous one year trial and lifetime warranty.

Pros: Cons: What our editors and the reviews say : Vetted mattress and sleep editor McKenzie Dillon says, “It’s one of the best mattresses you can buy for the price. It’s made with memory foam, but has more of a blended foam feel that’s easy to move around on. And the pillow top makes it feel ultra luxurious.” One happy customer says they “highly recommend DreamCloud for your luxury sleeping experience with perfect level of firmness,” says one buyer who generally prefers a very firm mattress.

“The DreamCloud, with its medium firmness, has exceeded my expectations.” Best Affordable Mattress For A Platform Bed Brooklyn Bedding Type : Hybrid | Firmness : Soft, medium or firm | Delivery : Bed in a box | Trial : 120 nights | Warranty : 10 years With multiple firmness levels to choose from and coming in under $1000, this Brooklyn Bedding model is a top choice for those on a budget.

The brand states that it’s compatible with “any type of support support system that provides minimal to no flex.” including most platform and slat foundations. It comes in three comfort levels—soft is described as a 3 out of 10 and best suited for side sleepers, medium is a 5 and ideal for combination sleepers and the firm model is a 7 out of 10 and best for those who require additional lumbar support or for stomach and back sleepers.

The combination of coils and foam offer the best of both worlds and sits 12.25 inches tall with five layers. The coils are individually encased to move independently and offer target support and superior motion isolation. On the other hand, several foams are paired for ultimate response, contour and breathability.

While the company sources top of the line materials for this mattress, it’s able to keep costs low by making both the foam and coils in house and shipping directly to the customer. Pros: Cons: What the reviews say : With over 10,000 reviews, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress is a top seller.

A repeat customer writes, “Our adult daughter recently moved back home so we needed to replace her older mattress. She absolutely loves her new Signature Hybrid and is now sleeping so much better. This is the third one we have purchased so now all the beds in our home have this. I would suggest this mattress and Brooklyn Bedding to anyone.” Best Firm Mattress For A Platform Bed Plank Type: Memory foam | Firmness: Firm or extra firm | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 120 nights | Warranty: 10 years This is a mattress for those who only want the firmest of the firm.

Brooklyn Bedding’s Plank mattress is a flippable option—one side is considered firm and rated 8 out of 10, while the company calls the opposite side ultra firm and rates it a 10 out of 10. This flippable design is not only helpful to enjoy two firmness levels whenever you feel like it but can also improve the longevity of your mattress.

The company states “any type of support system that provides minimal to no flex will work with our mattress,” including a platform frame. This foam mattress is also endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association, which concluded that the extra firm support is vital in reducing spinal stress, improving lumbar support and alleviating back pain.

All of the brand's foams are thick and dense to provide additional backing for hips and shoulders. As for the construction, each side is covered with a quilted layer to ensure minimal to no loft (depending on whether it’s the firm or extra firm side). The middle of the mattress is made up of 6 inches of high density support foam, which is the firmest option with the added benefit of deep compression support, and 2 inches of responsive foam crafted to contour while allowing a firm feel.

The breathable foams all have open cell technology. Pros: Cons: What our editors and the reviews say : “Very pleased with my Plank. It’s just the firmness that my back needs,” shares a couple. “I’m a big guy with a history of lower back pain and this mattress is just what I need. It’s firm but still comfortable enough for my petite wife to enjoy.

I like the fact that you can flip it, but the firm side has been great, so I haven't even tried the other side.” In addition to thousands of reviews praising this firm model, Forbes Vetted contributor Lindsay Vickers confirms it’s one of the firmest mattresses she’s ever felt and even found it comfortable when lying on her stomach, thanks to the cushioned uppermost layer.

Best Mattress For A Platform Bed For Side Sleepers Helix Type: Hybrid | Firmness: Medium to medium firm | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 100 nights | Warranty: 15 years The Helix Midnight Luxe is specially designed to relieve pressure points for side sleepers and those who toss and turn all night. Sleeping on your side is known without sufficient support can cause shoulder or hip pain.

However, this hybrid mattress is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association for its premium workmanship and alignment support. The Luxe models include zoned lumbar support to provide a softer feel for your shoulders and firm support under your hips. This combination helps cradle the body and align the spine.

Six layers make up the 13.5 inch mattress, starting with dense foam on the bottom to create a durable base. Just above that sits individually wrapped coils with reinforced support and edge support for structural stability. The following three layers are made of memory foam to contour your body, followed by a cooling pillow top to keep you comfortable.

The company rates the Midnight Luxe a level 5 to 6, with 10 being the firmest. It is assembled in the U.S., is Greenguard Gold Certified and made with Certipur US certified foams. This guarantees the highest quality for every mattress and ensures they’re made without any harmful chemicals, including ozone depleting substances, flame retardants, mercury, lead, heavy metals or formaldehyde.

The Helix warranty requires your platform bed frame to have a flat, sturdy support and no more than 5 inches of space between slats. Pros: Cons: What our editors and the reviews say : After trying the Helix Midnight Luxe in a showroom, Forbes Vetted contributor Vickers says, “It has a good amount of cradling and sink in sensation, which is what makes it shine for side sleeping, in particular.” She also notes that it had excellent motion transfer, making it ideal for couples who share a bed.

One customer says, “This mattress is incredible. My wife and I are still talking about how big of an upgrade this was. It is one of those things that is definitely proportionate to the amount spent, and in this case it is worth every single dollar. We look for excuses to hang out in bed.” Best Innerspring Mattress For A Platform Bed Saatva Type: Innerspring | Firmness: Choice of plush soft, luxury firm or firm | Delivery: Free white glove delivery | Trial: 365 nights | Warranty: Lifetime The most versatile mattress on our list is the Saatva Classic, making it ideal for nearly every person, need and sleeping style.

To start, customers choose their preferred firmness level. According to the company, the plush soft is rated a 3 out of 10 and is ideal for side sleepers who need extra pressure relief. The luxury firm falls within the 5 to 7 firmness range and is recommended for any sleep position or couples who have differing comfort levels.

Finally, the firm option is rated an 8 out of 10 and is geared toward those who enjoy lying on top of the mattress rather than sinking in. What’s more, you can also choose between the 11.5 inch or 14.5 inch height, which is helpful for those who need a certain depth to get in and out of bed easier.

It’s also available in nearly every size from twin up to split California king. The company approves each option for use “on a platform bed with a solid surface or horizontal slats spaced less than 4 inches apart with proper center support.” The combination of five layers of innersprings and foam not only provides a responsive feel but also cushioned comfort and pressure relief.

It has an extra layer dense foam in the lumbar zone, which is intended to keep your spine in healthy alignment. It also has high density foam rails for stable edge support and optimal airflow. Pros: Cons: What our editors and the reviews say : “The Saatva Classic checked off all my boxes,” shared deals writer Jordan Thomas.

It’s supportive but still comfortable, breathable and provides great edge support.” A customer who initially had reservations about purchasing a mattress online without testing it first shares, “I must say this mattress exceeded my expectations. While it's firmer than what I'm accustomed to I believe it's precisely what I needed.

I am incredibly pleased with its quality, comfort, and support, making it the ideal and satisfying choice.” Best Memory Foam Mattress For A Platform Bed Tempur Pedic Type : Memory foam | Firmness : Medium | Delivery : White glove delivery | Trial : 90 nights | Warranty : 10 years It’s no surprise Tempur Pedic is a name nearly synonymous with memory foam, considering NASA originally developed its proprietary material.

The company claims they’ve developed this proprietary material over decades to precisely conform and respond to each individual’s weight, shape and temperature while sleeping for personalized comfort. While it’s only available in a medium feel, customers also have the option of choosing a medium feel hybrid model that combines the Tempur material with coils.

So, it’s ideal whether you prefer the feeling of sinking into a mattress or require additional support from innersprings. In addition, this mattress is designed to keep sleepers five degrees cooler than other memory foam mattresses. The layers include innovative cooling material that pulls heat away from your body, a heat diffusing layer to absorb excess heat and a removable, machine washable cool to the touch cover.

This cooling feature is especially helpful when paired with a solid platform bed, as it naturally retains more heat. Memory foam mattresses generally work extremely well with platform beds as long as the frame has the necessary support required by the mattress company. For example, Tempur Pedic approves this mattress for use with a platform bed as long the slats are at least 3 inches thick and less than 4 inches apart.

Pros: Cons: What the reviews say : “We have slept on our mattress for over a month now,” reports a couple. “We both fall asleep within 5 10 minutes. This mattress is super comfortable and not as warm as our last Tempur pedic. My husband is typically hot and I am typically cold. This mattress has just the right temperature for both of us.” Best Hybrid Mattress For A Platform Bed WinkBeds Type: Hybrid | Firmness: Softer, luxury firm, firmer or plus | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 120 nights | Warranty: Lifetime Whether you prefer a soft, medium or extra firm option, the Winkbed has options to suit every person.

The company recommends the soft (rated a 4.5 out of 10) for side sleepers, the luxury firm (rated a 6.5) for those who want a balance of contour and support, the firm (rated a 7.5) for back and stomach sleepers who require extra support and the plus comfort level (rated an 8 out of 10) for heavier people or those who want maximum edge support.

A platform bedframe is the perfect companion for the Winkbed, and the company strongly suggests an option with a rigid center support. The mattress is specifically recommended for those who want both cushioning and support, who sleep hot and prefer a breathable option and those with back, hip or shoulder pain.

This hybrid mattress is comprised of four unique parts, with coils and foam making up the majority. The individually wrapped pocket springs work by flexing independently, while multiple support zones target back support. A layer of pressure relieving foam sits on top of the springs to provide support to your body.

The mattress is topped with stabilizing gel foam, and is designed to reduce motion transfer and disturbance. If you commonly toss and turn, you don’t have to worry about feeling like you may roll off, thanks to the firm support around the outer edges of the mattress. Lastly, the Tencel cover is soft and cool Pros: Cons: What the reviews say : A hesitant customer shares, “After nearly a year of research and hours of video reviews watched later, I realized I made the right choice with my WinkBed.

My optimistic take of my lengthy research process is that my research paid off and this mattress is the best we've ever slept on. My pessimistic take is that we could have slept much better for nearly a year if I just made the purchase sooner and used the awesome guarantee if we didn't like it.

All that to say, it's a great mattress right out of the box. We've had it for 7 months, and my husband and I both love it. We've already purchased an additional mattress for my mom.” Best Mattress For A Platform Bed For Heavy People Helix Type: Hybrid | Firmness: Medium firm | Delivery: Bed in a box | Trial: 100 nights | Warranty: 15 years The average mattress adequately supports a person weighing up to 250 pounds.

However, there are plenty of people beyond that range, so Helix specifically designed the Plus model with a limit of 500 pounds per side or 1000 pounds total. It’s also the reason it tops our list of best mattresses for heavy people . Helix sourced high density foam for this model to stand up to higher weights without sagging, dipping or sacrificing pressure point comfort.

So you won’t sink in too far. On top of the base layer of foam sits TitanCore steel coils durable enough for heavier weights. These individually wrapped coils are thicker than normal and are designed to cradle all sleepers and reduce motion transfer. As a bonus, it’s fitted with superior edge support surrounding the perimeter of the mattress for a better night's sleep or simply sitting on the bed to tie your shoes.

For additional comfort, the Helix Plus is comprised of both high responsive and dynamic foam for body contouring and long lasting comfort. It’s rated a 6 to 7 out of 10, making it medium firm with both pressure relief and support. The pressure relief is ideal for side sleepers, and the cradling comfort accommodates back and stomach sleepers.

While the company approves this mattress to be used with a platform bed frame (as long as there are no more than 5 inches of space between slats), it’s important to ensure that any bed frame also accommodates higher weights. Pros: Cons: What our editors and the reviews say : Executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers , who has tested many mattresses, slept on the Helix Plus for several months with her fiancé, who weighs over 250 pounds and deals with chronic back pain.

They are combo sleepers who loved it and found it equally comfortable when sleeping on their backs and sides. While it felt more plush than other bed in a box mattresses, she noted that it didn’t sink in. A repeat customer says, “This is the second mattress I purchased for an upgrade to the guest room.

The first one for the main bedroom is wonderful, comfortable and perfect. No more backaches, and I sleep better and soundly.” Best Latex Mattress For A Platform Bed Avocado Green Mattress Type : Latex | Firmness : Firm | Delivery : Optional in home delivery and setup | Trial : 365 nights | Warranty : 25 years While latex isn’t as well known as memory foam, there are a ton of benefits, especially when paired with a platform bed frame.

In general, latex is known for being hypoallergenic, bouncy without the sinking feeling and naturally cooler. Avocado recommends using this organic mattress with a rigid foundation, including a platform frame, with no more than five inches between slats. This mattress is a GOTS certified organic product made with certified organic latex, wool, and cotton.

Plus, it’s Greenguard Gold Certified for low emissions and verified to be formaldehyde free. The standard comfort level is firm, or 7 out of 10, which is ideal for back or stomach sleepers. However, it is also available in medium (6) or plush (4) for an additional fee. With the addition of over 1,000 steel coils, individually encased and arranged, this mattress offers superior ergonomic support.

The combination of latex and coils reduces motion transfer, distributes weight more evenly and alleviates pressure points while contouring your curves. It’s also handmade in the United States for optimal quality control. Pros: Cons: What our editors and the reviews say : “I opted for the medium firmness with the pillow top, and I highly recommend the upgrade if you want a plush feel, but still need ample support,” says executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers .

She notes that it’s super comfortable and great at isolating motion. A reviewer new to latex mattresses shares, “I loved it since day one. It has a completely different feeling than a traditional mattress or a memory foam mattress. I sleep on my side, and it’s very comfortable with no body aches, and I sleep longer without a need to keep turning.” How We Chose The Best Mattress For Platform Beds First and foremost, ensuring each mattress is compatible with a platform bed was our top priority, as well as evaluating which brands had specific instructions regarding the distance between slats or center support.

We sought out top rated models with an average customer review rating of 4 stars or above and compared that to our first hand testing experience to make our final recommendations. We want to ensure every person and every type of sleeper is represented in our picks, which is why we include mattresses in all budgets, firmness options from soft to extra firm, as well as hybrid, memory foam and innerspring mattresses.

Every person’s sleep journey is personal, so we only chose mattresses with a trial period of at least 90 days and a minimum warranty of 10 years. Trying it in your space is the best way to gauge whether or not a mattress works for you. Why Trust Forbes Vetted The Forbes Vetted team knows the importance of a good night’s rest and is committed to helping you choose the right mattress to fit your individual needs.

In addition to publishing dozens of bedding and mattress guides backed by expert knowledge and thorough research, we also have first hand testing experience. In fact, we personally tried out the majority of the models included in this list of best mattresses for platform beds, including the Leesa Studio, Helix Midnight Luxe and our top choice, the Nectar Premier Copper.

Regardless of your budget, our picks include a plethora of price ranges to accommodate all needs. Finding a the best mattress is possible, whether you want to spend a little or a lot. We also have relationships with many top rated mattress companies and frequently update this guide to ensure we keep our recommendations current.

This article was updated in October 2023. What To Look For In The Best Mattresses For Platform Beds It’s no secret that buying a mattress can be a complicated endeavor. However, if you know what you’re looking for, finding the perfect match is simple and fun. Aside from ensuring your mattress is compatible with a platform bed, there are a few other factors to consider.

Because platform beds do not require box springs, it’s important to choose a mattress thickness that makes it easiest to get in and out of bed. What’s more, platform bed frames generally sit lower to the ground, making mattress thickness even more vital. A standard profile mattress is between 8 to 12 inches thick.

However, if you need your bed to sit up higher, you can opt for a high profile mattress that can be as thick as 16 inches. From plush to ultra firm, mattresses are available in everyone’s desired comfort level. To determine a mattress's firmness, most brands give each model a rating between 1 and 10, with 1 being the softest.

A soft to medium soft mattress is rated between a 3 and 5 and is recommended for side sleepers who need more plushness. A mattress with a 5 to 7 rating is considered medium firm and is generally best for side, combination sleepers and occasionally back sleepers. Firm mattresses are considered anything above 8 and are recommended for back and stomach sleepers or those with back pain.

It’s important to note that body weight, height and chronic illnesses can also affect your preferred comfort level. While a brand can recommend a certain firmness level or type of mattress to specific sleeping styles, finding your preferred comfort level is unique. For this reason, it’s essential to choose a mattress with a generous at home trial period, especially if you buy online.

A standard trial is 90 nights, although some offer up to a full year to ensure your mattress is a perfect fit. If the mattress isn’t everything you want it to be, most brands allow customers to return or exchange for free, as long as you’re still within that trial period. With a plethora of features, materials and quality, the price of a mattress varies greatly from one to the next.

For example, the options on this list range from $999 to almost $5,000. It depends on the type of material and features that are most important to you. Mattresses made with certified organic material or proprietary foam will cost more than a polyfoam model with no bells or whistles. Features including cooling, hypoallergenic, generous warranty periods or flippable mattresses will also likely add to the cost.

However, you can purchase a high quality mattress on a budget, and a higher price tag doesn’t always mean a better mattress for your needs. To find the most comfortable bed, you’ll want to consider your sleep position and the amount of support you require. Most mattresses combine several layers of material to create the right amount of firmness or support.

So, a firm memory foam model can offer just as much support as an innerspring mattress. But, most find hybrid mattresses to offer exemplary support in most cases and it combines the best of both worlds. However, the foundation can also contribute to the amount of support. For example, a platform bed with a solid base often makes a mattress feel more firm and supportive than it would if it sat on a box spring.

Also, platform beds with slats will offer more support the closer the slats are together. What Type Of Mattress Is Best For Platform Beds? Platform bed frames work well with all types of mattresses and may even offer additional benefits. For example, if your platform bed has a solid base, it can reduce sagging and help a mattress feel more firm than it would if it were placed on a box spring.

The additional support provided by platform bed frames is also excellent for foam models that lack traditional support from coils. However, the solid base may retain more heat, whereas a platform bed with a slat foundation allows air to circulate to the surface. What Makes A Platform Bed Comfortable? One of the most significant benefits of a platform bed is the above average support from the solid base, which can keep a mattress from sagging in the middle and becoming uncomfortable.

Or if a platform bed is designed with a slatted structure, it often helps you sleep cooler since it promotes airflow. Also, many love the low profile design that keeps you closer to the ground and makes it more comfortable to get in and out of bed. Do Mattresses Stay On Platform beds? Because many platform bed frames feature a smooth foundation, some complain that the mattress slides off.

However, this depends on a variety of considerations, including the mattress and style of the frame, and doesn’t occur too often. To combat this issue, many platform beds are designed with a lip on the edge of the frame or non skid upholstery on the slats. More Mattress Stories To Shop If you already have a platform bed and need to find a mattress for that specific size, here are a few articles to help you explore more choices..