We researched dozens of box springs, assessing them on comfort level, size availability, and style. Our top choice is the Zinus 9-Inch Smart Metal Box Spring, which stands out for its durability, straightforward build instructions, and impressive height. Check out the best box springs on the market and learn more about what to look for before buying yours. The Zinus Smart Metal Box Spring is our top pick because it’s an all-around great box spring with solid construction and durable engineering. Because this box spring is made of heavy-duty steel, all sizes above a twin bed can support up to 700 pounds of weight, with a five-year warranty to back it. Unlike traditional box springs that will wear out over time and may not have a high weight limit, this option is not only durable but also incredibly affordable. This high-profile platform is 9 inches tall, so it’s perfect for those who like their bed to be a little more elevated. It’s also easy to put together and comes with all the tools you need for assembly. The Zinus box spring arrives in one slim box, so you won’t have to worry about navigating tight corners or stairwells with a fully built box spring. This box spring has a soft knitted cover and can rest on top of any style bed frame or platform bed. The non-slip cover also holds mattresses in place so you don’t have to worry about your mattress sliding around while changing your sheets or adjusting your bed skirt. All in all, this box spring is a great option for anyone who’s on-the-move and looking for an easy solution to their bedding hassles. Price at time of publish: $139 This box spring has a breathable netted fabric cover that’ll match virtually any bedding set or bedroom decor scheme. It’s available in either a 5-inch or 9-inch profile height and is compatible with most bed frames. Price at time of publish: $130 This versatile 5-inch box spring can be set up in seconds—no tools needed. Plus, if you need to move it or store it, it folds back up into a conveniently compact configuration. Price at time of publish: $139 This box spring has a neutral gray cover and can be used with any mattress or bed frame. However, if you use it with a Beautyrest bed and mattress, it’s backed by a 10-year warranty. This box spring can be set up within seconds and is easy to store and transport. It comes in two profile heights, 4.5 inches and 7.75 inches. Price at time of publish: $191 With sturdy wood construction and a woven stone-gray cover, the Box Foundation is durable with a mid-century feel. It comes in a compact box and can be set up in minutes. Also, the non-skid fabric cover ensures your mattress stays in place, so you won’t have to worry about readjusting it each night. Price at time of publish: $395 The top is 100 percent cotton, and the sides are a linen-cotton blend. With a 200-thread-count weave, the rich, crisp fabric has a high-end appeal. It’s 16 inches deep and can fit effortlessly around most box springs. Thanks to its structured corners, you’ll have a clean, tailored finish every time. This box spring cover is available in three neutral colors, white, tan, and beige, to complement almost any bedroom decor style. Price at time of publish: $80

Size/Height

Before buying and taking home your new box spring, consider whether or not you’ll be able to fit it in your space. Measure your room as well as stairs, doorways, and narrow hallways. Take those measurements with you to the store (or have them in hand while online shopping) to be sure you’ll be able to maneuver it easily. Also consider the height of the box spring. For those with back problems or mobility issues, a higher box spring is ideal so that you don’t have to strain your back when you get in and out of bed. In that case, look for a high profile-box spring for a little extra height. 

Mattress Type

Some mattress types are designed to work well in conjunction with a box spring, but others aren’t. Memory foam mattresses don’t work well with box springs because they’re soft and need more support than a box spring provides. Innerspring mattresses, on the other hand, are ideal matches for box springs.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This shopping guide was written by Theresa Holland, a freelance writer and homeowner with extensive personal and professional experience researching furniture and home goods. Check out more of her work on Byrdie and MyDomaine. Additional reporting was done by Lauren Murphy, a freelance writer whose work has also appeared on Hunker and the Huffington Post.