The 8 Best Box Springs of 2020

Best Overall: Zinus Justina Quick Snap Standing Mattress Foundation

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This elegant-looking option from popular online bed retailer Zinus checks all the boxes. Not only is it affordable, but it also comes with legs, so you won't need to buy a separate bed frame at all, if you don't want to. Reviewers point out that this mattress foundation will work with a variety of mattresses, including memory foam.

The foundation's total height is 16 inches: The frame, which is constructed from steel, is 9 inches high, with the legs adding an additional 7. Although we don't recommend it, the assembly process is apparently so simple that some Amazon reviewers did it while enjoying a relaxing glass of wine.

Best Metal: Alwyn Queen Metal Box Spring

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Whether you're sick of a creaky wooden box spring or you're shopping for rowdy kids who might love to jump on their bed, metal box springs are designed to hold up well and, unlike wooden ones, are unlikely to crack. At 50 pounds, this one from Alwyn is lightweight enough that it's not a huge hassle to put together solo, but it's sturdy enough to stand up to pressure.

Reviewers give it high marks for being easy to assemble (most did it in half an hour), durable (even for the parent whose son "likes to do flips") and squeak-free. The assembled box spring fits into a fabric cover that is zipped closed and then flipped over, although some reviewers had trouble with the slats slipping out when they got to that step, and had to repeat it a few times. The box spring is also covered by a five-year limited warranty.

Best On-the-Floor: Tuft & Needle Queen Box Foundation

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If you're seeking a streamlined foundation that can be placed directly on the floor while still looking good, check out this attractive (and somewhat pricey) choice from Tuft & Needle, a company that was started by two software engineers looking to demystify the mattress-shopping process. (In 2018, they merged with biggie Serta Simmons Bedding, but the two co-founders continue to play a large role in the company.)

Although you won't need tools to assemble it, the company does recommend having two people on hand to do the job. The wooden slats are covered with a fabric that's designed to help prevent your mattress from sliding around during the night, which can mess with your sleep in a major way. If you prefer a more traditional look, the company does sell a metal bed frame as well, and the two can be used together. The foundation comes with a five-year limited warranty. 

Best Splurge: Leesa Queen Mattress Foundation

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Although this well-made foundation was designed to work specifically with Leesa mattresses, many reviewers had success using it with other bed manufacturers as well, although some said it was a touch on the small side. The foundation is made from a mix of spruce, fir and, pine wood, and is perfectly quiet—no squeaking or creaking.

Another nice bonus of this foundation: The slate gray twill fabric is so lovely to look at and matches most types of bedroom decor, so you won't want to bother covering it up with a bed skirt. Some reviewers upgraded to this foundation from older, squeakier box springs and talked about the "epic silence" and how it was "whisper quiet." A three-year limited warranty is included with your purchase.

Best Foldable: Zinus Jayanna 9-Inch Split Queen Box Spring

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A foldable box spring can be handy if you need to move it through narrow doorways or up a steep staircase, or simply want to be able to set up your bed with minimal fuss. This affordable option from Zinus, which is made from durable steel, doesn't require any assembly other than opening the box, sliding it out and popping it open.

Although this 9-inch size is considered high-profile, the Jayanna also comes in both 4- and 7.5-inch heights if you'd prefer a lower profile. The box spring can be used with or without wooden slats, and reviewers had mostly good luck pairing it with foam mattresses, although some placed a wooden bunkie board in between for extra firmness. If you decide to move to a new home, you'll be able to fold it back up and relocate it with minimal hassle.

Best Budget: AmazonBasics Foldable Metal Queen Platform Bed Frame

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Want a simple way to get your mattress up and off the floor for without spending a fortune? Although it's not technically a box spring, this beloved, affordable option from AmazonBasics, which can be assembled with no tools, can easily replace the need for a box spring or a bed foundation. A mix of horizontal panels and cross rows of wires help provide a firm foundation that will even support a heavy foam mattress, and there are also holes on the frame that allow you to attach a headboard. Some reviewers have mentioned that the wires can be a bit sharp, so be careful when removing it from the box and consider covering your mattress.

The platform frame comes in 14- and 18-inch heights, and both choices have plenty of space (more than a foot of clearance) for underbed storage. Although the description suggests a weight limit of 250 pounds per adult, heavier sleepers also reported the frame to be extremely durable and quiet. Note that this frame is only covered by a one-year limited warranty.

Best Low-Profile: Classic Brands Low-Profile 4-Inch Instant Foundation

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How low can you go? This "instant foundation" is designed to replace a box spring and sits just four inches from the bed frame, making it a great option for kids, shorter adults and anyone else who may have trouble getting into or out of a higher setup.

This box spring is made in Pennsylvania Amish Country from solid spruce wood and comes with a removable, cotton-blend drawstring cover. Assembly is required, but most tools required are included in the package. The foundation is protected by a limited three-year warranty. Classic Brands also sells several other foundations in both wood and metal in a variety of heights, so you can find the right combination for your bedroom set up.