What is a Mattress Set?

Bases

• Some mattress sets include a mattress and a box spring, metal springs, or rods mounted on a piece of wood. Other mattresses come with a foundation, which is simply a solid or hollow block of wood.

Features

• With most mattress sets, manufacturers use the same fabric to cover both the mattress and box springs.

Size

• Mattress sets come in four main sizes--twin, or 38 by 75 inches; full, or 53 by 75 inches; queen, or 60 by 80 inches; and king, or 76 by 80 inches. Some people refer to twin beds as singles, and full beds as doubles.

Benefits

• The box spring or foundation provides much of the necessary support for the body during sleep, so buying a mattress set when your old mattress needs replacing is wise, according to the Better Sleep Council. Additionally, many stores offer discounts on mattress sets, or they provide a free frame or delivery when both pieces are purchased.

Considerations

• Platform beds and some toddler and day beds are built so that there is no need for a box spring or foundation. In such cases, it is beneficial to purchase only the mattress rather than the complete set.