Categories: In the Bedroom

How To Lower A Tall Mattress & Boxspring

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

TL;DR How To Lower A Tall Mattress & Boxspring

If your mattress and boxspring sit too high, making it difficult to get in and out of bed, there are several effective solutions. Switching to a low-profile steel bed frame, opting for a low-profile boxspring or bunkie board, selecting a thinner mattress, or using Versa Legs can all help lower your bed’s height. Combining these methods can reduce the overall height by up to 9 inches or more, ensuring a more accessible and comfortable sleeping setup without sacrificing stability or support. Learn more about how to Lower A Tall Mattress.

Modern mattress shoppers frequently express concerns that today’s beds are excessively tall, which is becoming a widespread issue nationwide. If you’re finding that your mattress and boxspring sit too high off the floor—making it challenging to get in and out of bed comfortably—we have several practical solutions to consider. This guide will dive into methods to effectively lower your new or old bed, ensuring your feet comfortably reach the floor without needing a step ladder or a boost into bed.

Straight Forward Solutions For Lowering Your Bed Height

Change Out Your Regular Steel Bed Frame For A Low-Profile Steel Bed Frame


The standard metal bed frame can be swapped for a low-profile version, typically reducing the bed height by about 3 to 4 inches. Low-profile frames are available in designs that hook in, bolt up, or even stand alone. These are sturdy bases for your foundation /boxspring that lower the overall bed height. This is often the most cost-effective solution for those looking to reduce the height without altering the mattress itself.

Key Takeaways

  • Low-Profile Steel Bed Frame: Swapping a standard steel frame for a low-profile version can lower bed height by 3-4 inches.
  • Low-Profile Boxspring/Bunkie Board: A low-profile boxspring (4-6 inches) or a bunkie board (2-3 inches) can significantly decrease height without impacting mattress support.
  • Thinner Mattress: Although it may alter comfort and cost more, a thinner mattress can help lower the overall bed height.
  • Versa Legs for Customization: Versa Legs allow bed height adjustments without requiring a full frame replacement, available in 3”, 5”, 7”, and 10” options.
  • Combining Solutions: Using multiple methods, like a low-profile frame, boxspring, and thinner mattress together, can lower the bed by 9 inches or more.

Educational Insight: Low-profile frames are built to be as strong and supportive as regular bed frames but are shorter. They are made from the same materials and are just as sturdy, but they don’t lift your bed as high off the ground.

Use A Low Profile Boxspring/Foundation, Or A Bunkie Board


While the names are interchangeable, both generally measure 7 to 9 inches in height. In contrast, low-profile box springs are available in heights ranging from 4 to 6 inches. Opting for a low-profile boxspring is an effective way to decrease the overall height of your bed setup without impacting the comfort or support of your mattress. Additionally, we offer strong platforms called bunkie boards that are 2-3 inches tall, which can lower your mattress even further. These bunkie boards do require premium center support bars underneath for optimal stability and support and range from 2-3 inches in thickness.

Educational Insight: Low-profile boxsprings/foundations maintain the key benefits of traditional bed base supports that reduce motion transfer to each sleeper and extend mattress life, while significantly reducing the profile of your bedding system.

Buy A Thinner Mattress


While not always the preferred solution due to cost implications and potential comfort compromises, selecting a thinner mattress can reduce bed height. This option might be necessary when dealing with exceptionally tall bed setups or when other solutions do not provide sufficient height reduction.

Educational Insight: Thinner mattresses often use advanced materials and engineering to offer comfort and support similar to thicker models. However, it’s important to educate oneself before choosing one, as many thinner mattresses are designed to be more cost-effective and might not include premium materials like high-quality foam or steel. Always consider your personal comfort needs and sleeping habits carefully when selecting a mattress.

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Versa Legs – A Customizable Alternative To Traditional Bed Frames

For those looking to lower their bed height without replacing their existing foundation, Versa Legs offer a versatile and adjustable solution. Unlike standard steel bed frames that lift your boxspring to a fixed height, Versa Legs attach directly to your foundation, allowing you to choose a lower profile while still maintaining stability and support.

Versa Legs come in various height options including 3”,5”,7”, and 10”, making them ideal for those who want to fine-tune their bed’s elevation without investing in a new bed frame or boxspring. They are particularly beneficial for those who prefer a frame-free look, as they eliminate the need for a traditional steel bed frame while still providing ample support.

Educational Insight: Versa Legs were originally designed for waterbed support but have gained popularity for conventional mattresses and box springs due to their strong, adjustable design. They allow you to set your bed at a comfortable height while maintaining even weight distribution and solid structural integrity.

By swapping out a traditional frame for Versa Legs, you can effectively lower your mattress setup by several inches, making it easier to get in and out of bed while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic.

Combining Solutions For Optimal Height Reduction

If you are using a vintage or heirloom bed frame that cannot accommodate modern, thicker mattress sets, combining a low-profile steel bed frame, a low-profile boxspring, and a thinner mattress may be the best solution. This approach can collectively lower the mattress set by approximately 9 inches or more, making the bed height more accessible and comfortable while maintaining the heirloom aesthetics of the bed.

Additional Quick Fixes And Considerations

When adjusting the height of your bed, it’s important to consider the overall bedroom aesthetic and the functional aspects of daily use. Ensure that the bed’s stability and support are not compromised while lowering its height. Regularly check and maintain the components used in your bed setup to preserve the longevity and comfort of your sleep environment.

By understanding and applying these targeted solutions, you can effectively lower the height of your mattress and boxspring, enhancing the functionality and comfort of your bedroom space.

FAQ: How To Lower A Tall Mattress & Boxspring

Q: What is the easiest way to lower my bed height?
A: The simplest and most cost-effective solution is replacing your standard bed frame with a low-profile steel bed frame, which reduces height by 3-4 inches.

Q: Can I lower my bed without buying a new frame or boxspring?
A: Yes! Versa Legs attach directly to your foundation and come in different heights, allowing you to adjust your bed’s height without replacing other components.

Q: Will using a low-profile boxspring change the comfort of my bed?
A: No, low-profile boxsprings provide the same support as traditional boxsprings, just with a reduced height of 4-6 inches instead of 7-9 inches.

Q: Is buying a thinner mattress a good option to lower bed height?
A: It can work, but you should research carefully. Thinner mattresses may not always provide the same level of support or durability as thicker models.

Q: Can I combine multiple solutions to lower my bed even more?
A: Absolutely! Using a combination of a low-profile frame, low-profile boxspring, and a thinner mattress can reduce bed height by 9 inches or more for maximum accessibility.

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Douglas Belleville

Doug Belleville and his father Dave own and run STLBeds - a specialty sleep store located in Arnold, MO. The staff at STLBeds is highly educated about sleep, comfort and their special sleep products. STLBeds only carries high quality mattresses and bed-related products. You won't find the brand names here - click here to find out why!

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