Many people are tossing out box springs in favor of platform foundations. There are several reasons to do so: lower cost, less to move, and sometimes added storage under the frame due to the extra space. Whatever your motivation for choosing to sack your box spring, you will still need a more supportive mattress in order to rest well on your platform.
There are tons of beds out there, and we know it can get overwhelming when trying to choose the right one. Enter our highest-rated list of mattresses for platform beds.
Best Mattresses for Platform Beds
- Nectar – Editor's Pick
- Helix Midnight – Best Hybrid Mattress for a Platform Bed
- WinkBed – Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers with a Platform Bed
- Bear Original – Best Mattress for Athletes with a Platform Bed
- Nolah Original – Best Queen-Size Mattress for a Platform Bed
- Saatva Classic – Best Innerspring Mattress for a Platform Bed
- Birch Natural – Best Cooling Mattress for a Platform Bed
- Plank Firm – Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers with a Platform Bed
- Titan Plus – Best for Heavy People with a Platform Bed
- Awara Natural Hybrid – Best Eco-Friendly
The Top Platform Bed Mattresses, Reviewed
Nectar Mattress

Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress

Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.

Nectar Mattress
Nectar offers the deeper hug of a traditional memory foam bed but with updated cooling and a Forever warranty.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar's flagship model is a memory foam bed that aims to provide a comfortable, responsive, and cool night of sleep. Its layers are robust enough to make it fully compatible with a platform bed, no box spring required.
The mattress is topped with cooling gel memory foam that lays over a springy response layer. This layer lends the bed a bit of pleasant bounce while simultaneously limiting motion transfer, so you can reposition easily without disturbing any sleeping partners. Underneath, it's backed by a durable, breathable base layer.
What stands out about it?
- We chose the Nectar as our top pick because it comes with impressive features while offering an affordable price, a forever warranty, and a 365-night trial period.
- The average sleeper should be comfortable with this mattress's medium feel, which should fit the needs of any sleeping position.
Want to learn more? See our full Nectar mattress review.
Helix Midnight Mattress

Helix really has thought of everything with their customized line of mattresses delvering best sleep using a proprietary sleep quiz.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress

Helix really has thought of everything with their customized line of mattresses delvering best sleep using a proprietary sleep quiz.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.

Helix Midnight Mattress
Helix really has thought of everything with their customized line of mattresses delvering best sleep using a proprietary sleep quiz.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The Helix Midnight is a hybrid mattress with a medium feel and enough versatility to accommodate all sleeping positions. Per the brand, you should pair this mattress with a platform bed or foundation with a maximum of 5 inches between each slat. This setup ensures that both its coil unit and its foam layers have the necessary support.
The Midnight's construction starts with a Soft Touch Design cover, followed by DuraDense foam, coils, high-grade poly foam, and Memory Plus foam. The cover enhances the bed's airflow, preventing the foams from overheating, and the coil unit allows even more cool air to circulate. The memory foam in the Helix Midnight provides pressure relief, preventing strain from building up in the shoulders, hips, and lower back.
Why we like it:
- The Helix Midnight is good for couples, providing motion isolation so that partners don’t awaken one another while sleeping.
- This hybrid has thicker-gauge coils around the perimeter for better edge support, allowing sleepers to spread out.
Looking for more details? Check out our Helix Midnight bed review or check out our picks for the best hybrid mattresses.
WinkBed Mattress

WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress

WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.

WinkBed Mattress
WinkBed is a luxury hybrid bed with a variety of comfort features that should make it a versatile pick for most sleeping positions.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The pressure relief and feel of the WinkBed mattress should check boxes across the board for every sleeping position, though buyers will want to narrow down their preferred firmness. Stomach and back sleepers may prefer the Luxury Firm and Firm WinkBed, while side sleepers tend to like the softer model. Additionally, this hybrid benefits most from the sturdy support of a platform bed—an old box spring likely won't cut it.
The bed is designed to conform to the body, minimizing pressure on the shoulders, hips, lower back, and legs. Its pressure-relieving properties come from its SupportCell foam and soft gel foam, which work together to minimize strain on sensitive body parts. The cover shouldn't allow for much sinkage, so you don’t have to worry about your spinal alignment or your hips pressing too deeply into the bed.
Why it stands out?
- The WinkBed has a Tencel cover that is OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, Class 1 certified. The foams have a CertiPUR-US® certification, meaning they’re free of potentially harmful substances.
- All WinkBed mattresses are handcrafted in the USA, so you may notice some variance between the beds.
Need more info? Read our full WinkBed guide and check out our Best Mattresses for Combination Sleepers.
Bear Mattress

This flagship model was thoughtfully crafted and assembled to be an attractive all-foam option for athletes who need better rest.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Mattress

This flagship model was thoughtfully crafted and assembled to be an attractive all-foam option for athletes who need better rest.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.

Bear Mattress
This flagship model was thoughtfully crafted and assembled to be an attractive all-foam option for athletes who need better rest.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear designed their Original mattress with active folks in mind: Its cover incorporates Celliant®, a textile that can reportedly improve performance recovery by reducing inflammation and increasing the transfer of oxygen to the blood. The brand also recommends using a platform bed—or a foundation with evenly distributed support—to hold up this model.
The Bear Original's all-foam construction should provide an excellent balance of pressure relief and support, as well as promote optimal body alignment. While its firmer foam keeps the body in a neutral posture, its graphite-gel memory foam should help ease muscle tension and maintain a cool sleep space perfect for athletes.
Why should you get it?
- Bear’s use of Celliant® could prove highly advantageous for athletic individuals, and the company offers a generous trial period so you can test out the mattress for yourself in the comfort of your home.
Looking for more details? Check out our Bear Original bed review or check out what our experts recommend for the best mattresses for athletes.
Nolah Original 10" Mattress

Nolah delivers ultimate pressure-relieving features in this all-foam mattress specifically designed for side sleepers.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Original 10" Mattress

Nolah delivers ultimate pressure-relieving features in this all-foam mattress specifically designed for side sleepers.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$

Nolah Original 10" Mattress
Nolah delivers ultimate pressure-relieving features in this all-foam mattress specifically designed for side sleepers.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Side sleepers know the struggle of trying to fall asleep while pressure builds up in the hips and shoulders. Luckily, the Nolah Original mattress is rated a plush 5/10 on our firmness scale. It's adept at hugging the body and preventing pressure buildup, and its lightweight foam layers are eminently suitable for a platform bed.
Instead of traditional memory foam, this mattress features Nolah’s proprietary AirFoam™, a material that cools sleepers by pulling heat away from the body. AirFoam™ also reportedly outperforms memory foam when it comes to both pressure relief and durability.
What else makes it special?
- The Nolah Original has a 7-inch high-density polyurethane base to support your body and structure the other foam layers.
Need more info? Check out our full Nolah mattress review or other best queen mattress options.
Saatva Mattress

Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress

Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.

Saatva Mattress
Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
With its Classic mattress, Saatva aims to offer a luxurious innerspring bed combined with all the cushioning and comfort of advanced foams. Although this mattress can work with a box spring, a platform bed is a more suitable foundation, as it provides consistent support across its surface.
The Classic's first layer—a Euro pillow top—feels plush and cozy on top of the stacked coiled systems that provide sturdy support and bounce. Unlike many online-only companies, this bed is not compressed and delivered in a box; they provide free white-glove delivery on every mattress, which includes installation and the removal of your old bed.
What are its best features?
- Saatva comes in three different firmness options (Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm) and two different heights (14.5-inches or 11.5-inches).
- The stripe of memory foam in the center is to support the lumbar area. This should provide pressure relief and comfortable alignment, especially for an innerspring mattress.
Looking to learn more? Read our Saatva Classic mattress review and our other best innerspring mattress options.
Birch Mattress

An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Birch Mattress

An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.

Birch Mattress
An eco-friendly bed that pairs latex and individually wrapped coils for a versatile hybrid sleep experience.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Birch mattresses are made with eco-friendly materials and meant to rest atop supportive platform beds. Whereas other mattresses utilize gels or synthetic materials to enhance cooling, the Birch takes a more natural approach to temperature regulation.
Its cover takes advantage of the innate breathability of cotton for cooling at the surface. Further below, you’ll find a layer of moisture-wicking Birch wool, which should help you stay dry and comfortable. Then, there’s a layer of latex, which offers all the comfort of memory foam without the heat retention.
What caught our eye?
- The coils in this mattress will promote extra airflow, further working to keep you cool throughout the night.
- The Birch Natural is a great choice for eco-conscious shoppers. This bed boasts eco-INSTITUT, GREENGUARD Gold, and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certifications.
In search of more details on this product? Visit our full-length Birch Natural mattress review or check out some other picks for best cooling mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress

Those in the market for a Firm bed now have a dual-sided choice to see what they require to sleep well-supported and comfortable in Plank Firm, a new product from Brooklyn Bedding.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress

Those in the market for a Firm bed now have a dual-sided choice to see what they require to sleep well-supported and comfortable in Plank Firm, a new product from Brooklyn Bedding.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$

Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Those in the market for a Firm bed now have a dual-sided choice to see what they require to sleep well-supported and comfortable in Plank Firm, a new product from Brooklyn Bedding.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Firm: 8/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Stomach sleepers typically need firmer mattresses that can keep their hips and stomach from sinking too much. Otherwise, they risk placing strain on their lower backs that could lead to more chronic pain.
The Plank Firm is constructed with an extra-firm feel that should be a great match for stomach sleepers who need that sturdy lifting. It also has a dual-sided design with two available firmness levels: Firm and Ultra-Firm. As long as you pair it with a platform bed or foundation that's suitably supportive, you'll be ready to rest.
What makes it worthwhile?
- With the purchase of this mattress, you’ll receive a 120-night trial period along with a 10-year warranty.
- The Plank Firm should keep you more “on top of” the mattress rather than “in” it, which aids with cooling as well as support.
Interested in this bed? Check out our full Plank Firm mattress review or check out some other picks for Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers.
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe

This specially-designed hybrid is made for heavier sleepers to help them get better, more comfortable sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe

This specially-designed hybrid is made for heavier sleepers to help them get better, more comfortable sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$

Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
This specially-designed hybrid is made for heavier sleepers to help them get better, more comfortable sleep.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
Heavy people require a mattress that provides a proper amount of comfort and support for their body types. Typically, this means an emphasis on quality, durable materials.
The Titan Plus Luxe was made specifically for heavier people, as it includes high-density foams and individually wrapped coils for unmatched support. And, it can be paired with your platform bed for even more sturdiness and structure.
What makes it unique?
- It has great motion isolation and edge support, so couples can move around without disturbing each other too much, and they can sleep close to the edge of the bed.
- The Titan Plus Luxe has some stellar cooling abilities, thanks to its gel infusions and coils that promote adequate air circulation.
Want to learn more? See our full Titan Plus Luxe review or some other mattress options for Best Mattresses for Heavy People.
Awara Mattress

Material
Latex
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Limited lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Awara Mattress

Material
Latex
Warranty
Limited lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.

Awara Mattress
Material
Latex
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Limited lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Some prefer to purchase a product only if they know what was used to create it. For those wanting to know exactly what they’re sleeping on, we introduce you to the Awara Natural Hybrid. It should fit wonderfully on a platform bed, but it also boasts quality materials unlike many other models on the market.
New Zealand wool and natural cotton create the plush, moisture-wicking cover. Beneath lies a comfort layer of Rainforest Alliance-certified Dunlop latex (which is also all-natural). Sturdy coils serve as the support to this mattress.
What makes it unique?
- The Awara Natural Hybrid has a host of certifications for quality materials and ethical production, including OEKO-TEX, GREENGUARD Gold, and Forest Stewardship Council.
- Awara offers an extremely impressive 365-night trial and a forever warranty.
Like what you’re seeing? Read our full Awara Natural Hybrid review or check out our other recommended memory foam mattresses.
A Buyer’s Guide to Mattresses for Platform Beds
What Is a Platform Bed?
A platform bed is basically a bed frame that does not need any extra support from a box spring to hold a mattress. Most platform bases are made with horizontal wooden or metal slats that are a few inches apart. These slats can add a bit of slack, allowing for a softer feel on the bed. Some are made with a sheet of wood—a literal platform.
Because a box spring offers a lot of strength to a mattress, beds have had to be reconstructed to have a secure foundation on their own while still being comfortable. This is why not every bed can be used without a box spring, although we are moving toward that direction with the rising popularity of platform frames.
How Much Weight Can a Platform Bed Support?
Platform beds can typically hold between 450 to 4,400 pounds, so make sure that you do your research and look for details on weight capacity when buying a new frame. Keep in mind that the weight of the mattress and the weight of whoever will be sleeping should be considered, including any pets or kids that may share the bed at times.
If you are particularly concerned about weight capacity, a flat foundation should be chosen over slats. A flat platform can more easily distribute pressure, important if weight is going to be applied on a specific place—think kids jumping on the bed, or kneeling on one part of the mattress. Slats can be broken, but they can also be easily replaced.
What Kind of Mattress Can You Use with a Platform Bed?
Almost any type of mattress can work well on a platform bed, depending on its construction and the manufacturer's recommendations. Each comes with its pros and cons and specific features, but personal preference really comes into play when choosing the materials you want your mattress made out of. Let’s take a look at four different types of common mattresses you will probably come across.
Memory Foam
This foam is an exceptionally versatile option, as it can be placed on pretty much any surface. If you have ever pressed your hand onto the surface of a mattress and could see its impression, you have seen the wonders of memory foam.
It will perform best on a slatted frame to allow for breathability, but make sure the slats are not too far apart—3 to 4 inches tend to be best—or the foam may start to sink into the cracks.
For More Info: Top Rated Memory Foam Beds

Latex
Latex is an all natural material made from the sap of a rubber tree, great for allergies or asthma (unless you have a latex allergy, of course). It is nontoxic and is a safe material for those who do not want a mattress made from synthetics.
It is generally really heavy, so a more sturdy frame will be needed in order to support the weight. Slats work just fine with latex beds, but the same suggestion as memory foam applies in terms of distance.
Read Our Full Guide: Best Latex Mattresses

Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses are usually the most familiar mattress type. Made with a coiled system, these have that signature bounce that many people enjoy. Springs do wear out over time, so make sure that the individual mattress you choose is designed to work on a platform frame, otherwise, it may break down faster.
A warranty may be void if a box spring was recommended as the proper foundation. Many mattresses these days are made with platform frames in mind, however.

Hybrid
Hybrid models are exactly what they sound like—a hybrid between two or more materials combined to provide a comfortable night’s sleep with the use of multiple technologies. Most often, a supportive spring system is integrated with a softer foam or latex.
Hybrid mattresses perform well on platform beds because of the combination of materials; the foam or latex support the coil layer and help evenly distribute pressure.
Read More: Top Hybrid Mattresses

Additional Considerations When Buying a Mattress for Platform Bed
There are a few other things to consider when shopping for a new mattress and platform bed. We will go into more detail below.
Size
Twin
A popular choice for kids, a twin is a perfect size for single folks who want to conserve space.
Twin XL
Twin XL is often seen in college dorms because it is slightly longer than the twin, great for taller individuals or those that sleep with pets.
Full
Fulls are nice for singles who want a little more wiggle room or move around a lot in their sleep or couples who don’t mind spooning.
Queen
The most common size, queens are a great option for couples that can still comfortably fit in most bedrooms.
King
Kings offer the most room from side to side, ideal for those who share the bed with kids, pets, and partners.
California King
Slightly less wide than a king but longer, a California King is the perfect choice for especially tall sleepers.
Want to learn more? See our mattress size chart and bed dimensions guide.
Bed Thickness
On a box spring, the thickness of a bed does not matter as much because there is already a thick foundation that the bed will lay on. With platform beds, mattresses need to be a little thicker to provide the proper amount of comfort and support. Look for models in the 10- to 12-inch range to allow for a little deflation. Thinner mattresses may be perfect for elderly or differently abled individuals, as they will not be as high off the ground.
Frame Height
This really depends on the height of you—the taller you are, the taller you will probably want your frame to be in order to make getting in and out of bed the easiest. Frame height can also add extra storage, barring the frame is high enough to fit containers, boxes, or whatever you want to hoard underneath the bed.
Storage
Storage can come in the height of the bed, but it can also come in the frame itself—many options nowadays offer some really excellent choices in terms of saving space. Because of the elimination of a box spring, there is extra space underneath the bed for drawers and storage systems. Some frames can even pull the mattress foundation up by a handle, revealing a hiding space for blankets, clothes, etc.
Firmness
Firmness is key with all mattresses; it really is what determines whether you will have a good night’s rest. It is extremely subjective, as every person will feel firmness and pressure differently, but we generally recommend medium to medium-firm mattresses for the average sleeper.
Need more details? Visit our complete mattress firmness guide.
Cooling
We know how awful it is for a good night’s rest to be interrupted by overheating due to improper heat regulation from your mattress. If you sleep particularly warm, find yourself waking in a sweat, or are pregnant, cooling mattress is probably high on your list of priorities. Memory foam is usually the warmest material, while innerspring models tend to promote better breathability.
Those with higher density foams may offer more support, but they can often trap heat, creating an uncomfortable experience for certain people; however, there are many foam mattresses that combat this by using technology like gel, low-density foam top layers, moisture-wicking fabrics, and air pockets. Hybrid mattresses are often the best of both worlds, using both a spring system to generate airflow and foam for comfort.
The foundation also aids in cooling; slatted platform frames allow for the mattresses to breathe, especially important for foam beds to perform at their best.

Warranty
The best mattresses will come with a pretty good warranty. Many come with a 10-year warranty, and some of them offer a lifetime warranty, like Nectar, Layla, and Sparrow to name a few.
All warranties have their limits, of course, but you can usually count on a mattress that has a longer warranty. If any accidents happen, the bed wears down too quickly, or some faulty manufacturing is involved, a warranty can save you a lot of stress (and your wallet a lot of cash). A warranty is kind of like a promise to you from the company, helping you rest soundly.
Trial
Many companies offer trial periods, especially since the emergence of the bed-in-a-box. Since you are unable to test out the bed in-store, companies had to find another option in case a customer was not in love with their product.
The most impressive trials can range all the way up to 365 days, which means you have a full year to decide whether or not the bed is for you. Make sure that you understand all the details of a trial period before purchasing, like who to contact if you are not satisfied, the exact length, and any possible shipping fees for returns.
Platform Bed Mattress FAQs
What’s the difference between a platform bed and a box spring?
A platform bed acts as both a foundation and a bed frame for your mattress, whereas a box spring is a separate foundation that goes between your mattress and a bed frame.
Platform beds tend to feature supportive slats that hold up the mattress. A box spring, on the other hand, is a wood or metal platform covered in fabric. It might be hollow inside, or outfitted with springs.
A box spring is only necessary if your bed frame doesn’t offer enough of a foundation on its own—but some people still prefer to use them for the additional height they lend to a bed.
Wondering which setup is best for you? Learn more about box springs vs. slats.
Can I use a box spring with a platform bed?
Although it is not necessary for support, you can definitely use a box spring with a platform base to add some extra height, if desired.
Get more info: Do You Need a Box Spring?
Conclusion
Many mattress shoppers are making the switch to a platform bed for simplicity, cost, and efficiency. With so many choices out there, purchasing a new bed can seem daunting at times. We hope this guide gave you some valuable information on your mattress-buying journey.
If you are interested in learning more about any of the beds we mentioned in our list (and a bunch of others, too), check out our in-depth reviews, where we take a deeper look at individual features the mattresses have to offer as well as what kinds of sleepers may be best served on each one.
Jill Zwarensteyn is the editor for Sleep Advisor and a certified sleep science coach. She is enthusiastic about providing helpful and engaging information on all things sleep and wellness.
Based in Los Angeles, she is an experienced writer and journalist who enjoys spending her free time at the beach, hiking, reading, or exploring new places around town.
She’s also an avid traveler who has a personal goal of being able to successfully sleep on an airplane someday.