How To Raise a Mattress: Practical Ways to Add Height and Support

If you’re wondering how to raise a mattress, you’re usually trying to solve one of a few common issues: the bed feels too low, it’s hard to get in and out, or you want more storage space underneath. This FAQ-style guide explains safe, practical ways to raise a mattress, what to watch out for, and how to keep your mattress performing well over time.

Why Would You Want To Raise a Mattress?

People look up how to raise a mattress for several everyday reasons, including:

Easier access: A higher bed can be more comfortable to sit on and stand up from.
More under-bed storage: Raising the mattress can create extra space for bins or boxes.
Better appearance: Some sleepers simply prefer the look of a taller bed.
Adjusting to a new frame: If you changed your bed base and it’s now too low or too high, you may want to fine-tune the mattress height.

Whatever the reason, the key is raising the mattress safely without damaging the mattress or frame.

What Are the Main Ways To Raise a Mattress?

1. Bed Risers Under the Bed Frame or Legs

One of the most common answers to how to raise a mattress is using bed risers under the bed frame or foundation legs.

They typically go under each leg of the bed.
They come in different heights, often from a few centimeters to several inches.
They work best for frames with clearly defined legs or posts.

Things to keep in mind:

Make sure the risers are rated for the weight of the frame, mattress, and sleepers.
Check that the leg of your bed fits securely in the riser cup to reduce wobbling.
Place the bed carefully and test for stability before regular use.

2. A Bunkie Board or Low-Profile Foundation

If you do not want to change the floor height of the bed but want the mattress higher relative to the frame rails, a bunkie board or low-profile foundation can help.

These are flat, supportive surfaces that sit between the mattress and the bed frame.
They can add a small but noticeable amount of height, usually a few inches or less.

This is especially helpful if:

Your current frame has slats that sit low, making the mattress feel sunken.
You want to improve support while also raising the mattress slightly.

3. A Mattress Topper or Additional Comfort Layer

Another way to handle how to raise a mattress is to add a mattress topper. While toppers are primarily for comfort, they can add extra thickness as well.

Toppers vary in thickness, often from about 2–4 inches.
They can make the bed feel higher and softer or firmer, depending on the material.

Note: This approach changes the overall feel of the bed, not just the height, so it’s best for people who want both extra height and a different surface feel.

4. Using a Different Bed Base or Frame

Sometimes the simplest long-term answer to how to raise a mattress is to switch to a higher bed base.

Options can include:

A platform bed that sits higher off the ground.
A taller metal frame or wood frame with more clearance.
A frame plus foundation combination, instead of a low-profile base.

This usually requires more effort and cost than smaller adjustments, but it offers a more permanent height change.

What Should You Avoid When Raising a Mattress?

Not every DIY solution is safe or good for your mattress over time. Common mistakes to avoid include:

Stacking random objects (books, bricks, paint cans) under the frame or foundation
Propping up parts of the mattress only, creating uneven support
Using soft or unstable materials that can compress or shift unexpectedly

These can lead to:

Uneven wear on the mattress
Wobbling or tipping
Potential damage to the bed frame or floor

Whenever possible, use products specifically designed to support weight and stay stable.

How High Should Your Mattress Be?

There is no single “correct” mattress height, but many sleepers aim for a bed height where:

When you sit on the edge, your feet can rest flat on the floor.
Your knees are at about a comfortable angle, rather than much higher or lower than your hips.

This is more about personal comfort and ease of movement than strict rules.

Will Raising a Mattress Affect Its Support or Durability?

Raising a mattress can be perfectly safe if:

The support surface is flat, sturdy, and continuous (or has closely spaced slats as recommended for your mattress type).
The frame and any risers are designed to carry the full load.
Height changes do not cause sagging in the middle or unsupported edges.

If the mattress bends, sags, or feels uneven after your changes, it may be a sign that the support system needs adjustment.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about how to raise a mattress

Start with stability: Use risers, boards, or frames designed to hold bed weight safely.
Check the whole setup: Frame, support surface, and floor contact all matter when raising a mattress.
Think about comfort and access: Aim for a height that makes getting in and out of bed easy.
Avoid unsafe DIY props: Unsecured blocks or soft materials under the frame can lead to wobbling or damage.
Reassess after changes: Lie and sit on the bed from different angles to ensure it feels stable and supportive.

By focusing on safe supports, secure hardware, and your own comfort needs, you can decide how to raise a mattress in a way that feels practical, stable, and right for your space.