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Understanding DIY Mattress Support Layers
The support layer of a mattress is crucial for providing the structural foundation and determining the overall comfort, durability, and supportiveness of the mattress.
Among the various materials used for support layers by manufacturers and DIYers alike, pocketed coil units, firm latex foam, polyfoam, and thick wool mats are popular options, each offering unique benefits.
WHERE TO BUY: DIY Mattress SUPPORT Layers
Latex Foam
Firm and extra-firm latex foams (preferably Dunlop) can be used as support layers in your DIY mattress.
These 6″ ‘cores’ are offered as all-natural or blended Talalay latex. Many folks prefer Dunlop latex for support layers, however.
DIYmattress.comNope, not a misprint. There is a .net and a .com, and they are different. The .com has 3″ Dunlop latex in firm and extra firm.
Arizona Premium MattressTheir 6″ Dunlop latex foam is a popular choice. Higher ILD scores are firmer.
TurmerryCertified organic latex from Sri Lankan rubber trees. GOLS, eco-INSTITUT, OEKO-TEX, and LGA approved. 120-day trial with a full money-back guarantee.
SleepEZWhile this link takes you to ‘toppers,’ for DIY mattress support layers, aim for the 3″ firm or extra firm. Many DIYers like Dunlop latex for support layers, as it tends to be a bit firmer than Talalay latex.
Sleep on LatexThey carry 3″ firm latex foam slabs. Select the “no cover” option.
PlushBedsGOLS-certified organic latex slabs at a great price. For your DIY mattress support layer, you’ll want to choose the 3″ option.
DIY Natural HomeThey carry 3″ firm, extra firm, and hard GOLS organic latex slabs.
Foam Factory/Foam by MailThese 6″ latex slabs are medium-firm and come with a zippered cover you can keep or discard.
Latex Mattress FactoryThese are ‘toppers’ but a 3″ Dunlop latex slab in firm or extra firm makes for a very fine DIY mattress support layer.
Polyfoam
An excellent support layer choice for DIYers on a budget.
A 6″ economical support foam certified CertiPUR-US.
Foam Factory/Foam by MailThey call these mattresses, but they are polyfoam slabs you can order in your preferred firmness.
DIYMattress.netA 6″ CertiPUR-US® certified slab of polyfoam makes for an economical DIY mattress support layer.
DIYMattress.comThe .com also carries a 6″ slab of HD polyfoam. Also a terrific value.
White Lotus HomeTheir Evergreen Eco-Foam is available in a 6″ ‘green’ foam option. It’s made with vegetable oils instead of the more common petroleum-based oils.
Wool Mats
Unmistakably, wool can make for a luxurious and high-end support layer.
These can be used alone or as part of a larger build. Add a topper and enjoy the luxe life.
Natural Home by The Futon ShopAn unconventional option for DIY mattress support layers, but it comes with some significant advantages.
White Lotus HomeHandmade mattress support layers that can be used alone, but we suggest pairing them with a comfort layer topper.
Pocketed Coils
Pocket coils as a support layer are extremely popular with DIYers for good reason.
They sell Texas Pocket Coils in 6″ or 8″ heights, which are offered with or without firmer side edging.
DIYmattress.netThey carry a Leggett & Platt 6″ option and an 8″ option.
Arizona Premium MattressThey offer three options for Leggett & Platt pocket coils: a 6″ and two 8″ models.
Latex Mattress FactoryThey carry 6″ Dynamic Edge individually encased coils.
DIYmattress.comThey offer a 6″ pocket coil option.
Latex SleepThey carry a Leggett & Platt 6″ Elite Edge pocket coil.
More DIY Mattress Parts Directories:
Blueprints & Case Studies
Reading case studies and looking at blueprints helps clarify the principles of mattress construction and simplifies some of these complex-seeming concepts.
We do our best to keep tabs on current suppliers. If we’re missing someone, please drop us a line. We’re currently focused on the US market, but feel free to send us links to any international suppliers, and we’ll happily add them for our friends worldwide.
However, we cannot guarantee information provided and strongly encourage you to contact vendors to confirm configuration, materials, and/or return policies. Seriously gang, contact them with any questions or concerns you may have.
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