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Plywood Under Memory Foam Mattress

Plywood Under Memory Foam Mattress

Written by: Daniel Connell · Updated on: January 19, 2024

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Key Takeaways

It's very important to provide proper support for memory foam (especially in the center third of the mattress where it weighs the most)!

In general, plywood is a good choice. Only certain types of plywood.

For airflow, plywood should also be cut into strips.

Besides plywood, there are many other foundation options, including:

• Bunkie boards
• Bed slats
• Box Springs
• Platform Bed/Slatted Foundation
• Metal Bed Frame

Your mattress is likely damaged internally beyond repair, so it's best to simply replace it.

Saatva Classic is a fantastic replacement. Extremely comfortable and built to last. The #1 mattress on the market (for a reason).

Despite replacing your mattress, you still want to get a better foundation.

Can I Put Plywood Under My Memory Foam Mattress?

Yes, you can put plywood under your memory foam mattress.

Keep in mind the following about plywood:

• For air circulation, cut the plywood into wide strips with equal spacing between them. Look up "bed slats" on Google, there are plenty to choose from.
• Most foundations are simply plywood boards covered by a thin layer of foam.
• Platform beds are nothing but plywood.
• Sheets of plywood are not recommended because there is no ventilation to allow body moisture to escape. As a result, damp, unhygienic body fluids accumulate. It will create unhealthy and toxic conditions to sleep in and breathe.
• Slats make up a relatively small percentage of bed supports, and most of those slats are plywood.
• You can add another piece of plywood on top, but it probably won't make much of a difference.
• A mattress with cheap ply will be ruined more quickly by moisture.

Helpful Reddit comments:

User 1: "Plywood alone wouldn't, but plywood reinforced by 2x4s every 16 inches would work perfectly. A single sheet of plywood will bend in the middle under its own weight, so the definitely need something added underneath."

User 2: "I have read there could be some mold issues without providing sufficient airflow. Don't know if it's true but it makes sense. You can certainly purchase a cheaper base/foundation elsewhere but don't go too cheap. You don't want more than 3" between slats or flexibility in your base."

User 3: "The airflow is from condensation underneath the foam, not how it goes through the foam. The fact that it can't breath against the plywood is the problem. Moisture will build and you will have all sorts of issues. I'm in the same process and just did research. I'm going to buy a cheap metal frame with slats"

User 4: "Interestingly spring mattress don't have the same problem, the airflow through the mattress is much better. But most vans don't want the giant thick spring mattress."

What Other Support Options Are Available?

There are 5 primary support option alternatives vs. plywood, including:

1. Bunkie board:
• Flat sheets of wood covered with fabric, while plywood is thin wooden sheets that are placed together and glued.
• Bunkie boards provide extra mattress support.

2. Bed slats:
• Bed slats can be replaced with an appropriate plywood sheet, to increase the strength of the bed as a whole.
• Plywood's flat and even surface provides better and firmer support for a mattress.

3. Box Spring:
• Box springs are covered in fabrics and are traditionally used for innerspring mattresses.
• Box springs add height to the bed surface and help in the even distribution of weight and absorb pressure evenly.
• They are not recommended for foam mattresses as they lack a flat solid surface.

4. Platform Bed/Slatted Foundation:
• Less expensive and more durable options for mattress foundation.

5. Metal Bed Frame:
• Metal bed frames cannot be used alone as mattress foundations, but can be used with metal slats for additional support.
• They offer sturdy support for the mattress, are germ-free, and do not promote the growth of bugs.

A rotated mattress, much like rotated tires, typically wears more evenly and reduces indentions or support issues.

What If My Mattress Is Damaged From Bad Support (And Can'T Be Easily Fixed; Even With New Support)?

Replace your damaged mattress with a new one.

Don't sacrifice your health just to save some money. A damaged mattress can lead to serious health problems.

We highly recommend Saatva Classic, for the following 8 reasons:

• Quality: Saatva is a reputable brand that makes quality mattresses.
• Price: The price of Saatva Classic is affordable (compared to many other overpriced mattresses).
• Support: Support your body right where it is needed the most. Ensures healthy spinal alignment no matter how you sleep.
• Pressure relief: Amazing relief for achy backs and joints.
• Comfort: Designed to provide the comfort level used in luxury hotels.
• Reputation: America's best-selling online luxury innerspring (for a reason). 50K+ positive customer reviews.
• Durability: Extra durable. No sag and sinking.
• Breathability: Allows airflow for cooler, more comfortable sleep.

Why A Good Foundation Is Critical For Your Long Term Health And Mattress

Here are the 8 primary benefits of a good mattress foundation:

• Adds height to the mattress
• Absorbs shocks and wears
• Even weight distribution
• Protects from allergens
• Improves airflow
• Prevents posture
• Ensures proper hygiene that protects the mattress from insects and molds
• Sturdy support

Is Plywood The Best Option For Supporting A Memory Foam Mattress?

Plywood is a sturdy and cost-effective option for supporting a memory foam mattress, but it may not be the best choice for everyone. Your individual needs and preferences should be taken into account when selecting the right support for your mattress.

If your bed has slats, additional support may not be necessary. However, if you have a traditional bed frame with a box spring, placing plywood between the frame and the mattress can evenly distribute weight and prevent sagging or indentations.

When selecting plywood, choose a high-quality, smooth surface to avoid sharp edges or splinters that can damage your mattress. Ensure the plywood is thick enough to provide adequate support without bending. A ¾ inch piece of plywood is often sufficient for most mattresses.

It's important to remember that not all mattresses require additional support, and using plywood or other unapproved materials can void the warranty. Always check with the manufacturer for specific guidelines and recommendations on proper support.

Ultimately, the best option for supporting your memory foam mattress depends on your individual situation. Consider your bed frame type, mattress type, and personal preferences before making a decision.

About X

X is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of NapLab.com. He has been featured in Fast Company, Reader's Digest, Business Insider, Realtor.com, Huffington Post, Washington Post, AskMen, and She Knows. X has personally tested over 268+ mattresses and hundreds of pillows, sheets, beds, and other sleep products.

See Our #1 Researched Mattress in 2024

Rated best for comfort and hotel-feel

Get 450$ OFF Mattresses

References

Plywood Under Memory Foam Mattress

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It's very important to provide proper support for memory foam (especially in the center third of the mattress where it weighs the most)!

In general, plywood is a good choice. Only certain types of plywood.

For airflow, plywood should also be cut into strips.

Besides plywood, there are many other foundation options, including:

• Bunkie boards
• Bed slats
• Box Springs
• Platform Bed/Slatted Foundation
• Metal Bed Frame

Your mattress is likely damaged internally beyond repair, so it's best to simply replace it.

Saatva Classic is a fantastic replacement. Extremely comfortable and built to last. The #1 mattress on the market (for a reason).

Despite replacing your mattress, you still want to get a better foundation.

Can I Put Plywood Under My Memory Foam Mattress?

Yes, you can put plywood under your memory foam mattress.

Keep in mind the following about plywood:

• For air circulation, cut the plywood into wide strips with equal spacing between them. Look up "bed slats" on Google, there are plenty to choose from.
• Most foundations are simply plywood boards covered by a thin layer of foam.
• Platform beds are nothing but plywood.
• Sheets of plywood are not recommended because there is no ventilation to allow body moisture to escape. As a result, damp, unhygienic body fluids accumulate. It will create unhealthy and toxic conditions to sleep in and breathe.
• Slats make up a relatively small percentage of bed supports, and most of those slats are plywood.
• You can add another piece of plywood on top, but it probably won't make much of a difference.
• A mattress with cheap ply will be ruined more quickly by moisture.

Helpful Reddit comments:

User 1: "Plywood alone wouldn't, but plywood reinforced by 2x4s every 16 inches would work perfectly. A single sheet of plywood will bend in the middle under its own weight, so the definitely need something added underneath."

User 2: "I have read there could be some mold issues without providing sufficient airflow. Don't know if it's true but it makes sense. You can certainly purchase a cheaper base/foundation elsewhere but don't go too cheap. You don't want more than 3" between slats or flexibility in your base."

User 3: "The airflow is from condensation underneath the foam, not how it goes through the foam. The fact that it can't breath against the plywood is the problem. Moisture will build and you will have all sorts of issues. I'm in the same process and just did research. I'm going to buy a cheap metal frame with slats"

User 4: "Interestingly spring mattress don't have the same problem, the airflow through the mattress is much better. But most vans don't want the giant thick spring mattress."

What Other Support Options Are Available?

There are 5 primary support option alternatives vs. plywood, including:

1. Bunkie board:
• Flat sheets of wood covered with fabric, while plywood is thin wooden sheets that are placed together and glued.
• Bunkie boards provide extra mattress support.

2. Bed slats:
• Bed slats can be replaced with an appropriate plywood sheet, to increase the strength of the bed as a whole.
• Plywood's flat and even surface provides better and firmer support for a mattress.

3. Box Spring:
• Box springs are covered in fabrics and are traditionally used for innerspring mattresses.
• Box springs add height to the bed surface and help in the even distribution of weight and absorb pressure evenly.
• They are not recommended for foam mattresses as they lack a flat solid surface.

4. Platform Bed/Slatted Foundation:
• Less expensive and more durable options for mattress foundation.

5. Metal Bed Frame:
• Metal bed frames cannot be used alone as mattress foundations, but can be used with metal slats for additional support.
• They offer sturdy support for the mattress, are germ-free, and do not promote the growth of bugs.

What If My Mattress Is Damaged From Bad Support (And Can'T Be Easily Fixed; Even With New Support)?

Replace your damaged mattress with a new one.

Don't sacrifice your health just to save some money. A damaged mattress can lead to serious health problems.

We highly recommend Saatva Classic, for the following 8 reasons:

• Quality: Saatva is a reputable brand that makes quality mattresses.
• Price: The price of Saatva Classic is affordable (compared to many other overpriced mattresses).
• Support: Support your body right where it is needed the most. Ensures healthy spinal alignment no matter how you sleep.
• Pressure relief: Amazing relief for achy backs and joints.
• Comfort: Designed to provide the comfort level used in luxury hotels.
• Reputation: America's best-selling online luxury innerspring (for a reason). 50K+ positive customer reviews.
• Durability: Extra durable. No sag and sinking.
• Breathability: Allows airflow for cooler, more comfortable sleep.

Why A Good Foundation Is Critical For Your Long Term Health And Mattress

Here are the 8 primary benefits of a good mattress foundation:

• Adds height to the mattress
• Absorbs shocks and wears
• Even weight distribution
• Protects from allergens
• Improves airflow
• Prevents posture
• Ensures proper hygiene that protects the mattress from insects and molds
• Sturdy support

Is Plywood The Best Option For Supporting A Memory Foam Mattress?

Plywood is a sturdy and cost-effective option for supporting a memory foam mattress, but it may not be the best choice for everyone. Your individual needs and preferences should be taken into account when selecting the right support for your mattress.

If your bed has slats, additional support may not be necessary. However, if you have a traditional bed frame with a box spring, placing plywood between the frame and the mattress can evenly distribute weight and prevent sagging or indentations.

When selecting plywood, choose a high-quality, smooth surface to avoid sharp edges or splinters that can damage your mattress. Ensure the plywood is thick enough to provide adequate support without bending. A ¾ inch piece of plywood is often sufficient for most mattresses.

It's important to remember that not all mattresses require additional support, and using plywood or other unapproved materials can void the warranty. Always check with the manufacturer for specific guidelines and recommendations on proper support.

Ultimately, the best option for supporting your memory foam mattress depends on your individual situation. Consider your bed frame type, mattress type, and personal preferences before making a decision.