Blog > Why Putting Your Mattress On The Floor Is Not a Good Idea?

Here’s why putting your mattress on the floor is not a good idea.

You may save money when buying a bed by dumping the frame and placing your mattress directly on the ground. This is a common practice in some cultures. However, for the majority of us, it’s not recommended and can be dangerous.

It’s okay to put your mattress on the ground for a short time, but it is not recommended. In most cases, the warranty will be voided. This guide will explain the risks involved and offer some alternatives.

What are the risks of placing your mattress on the floor?

The practice of sleeping on a mat, or a mattress on the ground has been around for centuries. Many civilisations have used this method, including the Ancient Egyptians.

It is clear, however, that there are additional risks associated with this option.

1. Air can’t circulate beneath

There is no room for air circulation when you place the mattress directly on your floor. It means that heat and sweat cannot escape, creating the perfect environment for bed bugs and mould.

Moldy mattresses can lead to a variety of health problems including asthma and allergy complications.

2. You will be exposed to cooler temperatures

It can be colder at the bottom of the stairs because warm air rises. If you don’t have a mattress frame, you will likely get colder at night if you sleep without one. It’s especially difficult to do this in colder climates and during the cooler months of the year.

Breathing cold air increases your chances of getting respiratory infections.

3. Dust can accumulate on your mattress

You’ll see dust on your sheets if your mattress is near the ground. Dirt and dust have a significant impact on your health and can cause allergies or a variety of illnesses.

To prevent this, you will need to clean your bedding and mattress thoroughly regularly. You should also vacuum the floor at least every two to three days.

4. Low mattresses are difficult to enter or exit.

Standard beds with frame and mattress or boxspring measure between 45cm to 80cm above the floor. It is the perfect height for sitting down, and then lying down. A mattress alone could only be 20cm-30cm above the floor.

It is much harder to get into, especially if you have joint or back problems. The bed is also low, making it difficult to get up.

5. Sheets and Doonas can drag on the floor

If your mattress is on the ground, the sheets and blankets will likely collect more dirt. Dragging your sheets across the floor will also require them to be washed more frequently, and can make your bed uncomfortable to sleep on.

It can happen if the mattress is placed on a box spring, but this is more likely to occur if it’s on the floor.

6. Can void your warranty

Most mattresses are designed to be placed on a box spring or frame. Mattress manufacturers know that placing them on the ground can shorten their lifespan due to increased wear and tear, dirt and mould. Some brands state explicitly that placing the mattress on the floor will invalidate the warranty, and you won’t be able to claim any damage or issues that may develop.

The warranties of Australia’s top mattress brands such as Koala and Ergoflex 5G, Ecosa and Ergoflex 5G, do not cover water, mould or moisture damage, which can occur when a mattress is placed on the floor. Peacelily, a latex mattress manufacturer, clearly states in its terms and conditions that using the mattress as a floor mattress voids its warranty.

We recommend you carefully follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to maintain your mattress. You will be able to claim the warranty if something goes wrong.

Is it Beneficial to Place Your Mattress on the Ground?

There are many reasons why you should never place your mattress on the ground. However, there are also some benefits to consider:

1. Cheaper

You may consider buying only the mattress if you can’t afford to buy a box spring and mattress. You may be able to get away with this in the short term, but it’s better to opt for one of our recommended budget bedframes from Australia’s Best Bed Bases and Frames of 2022 list.

2. Firm Support

If you want to increase the firmness of your mattress and get more support, place it on the floor. This may be a good option if you suffer from back pain or simply prefer a firmer bed. There are many options for firmer mattresses, including bed frames. You don’t have to limit yourself to just a mattress. Check out our article Best mattresses for back pain In Australia to find our favourite medium-firm support mattresses.

Other Alternatives to Mattresses on the Floor

Why not consider an alternative to the traditional box spring or bed frame?

• Choose a bed with a frame and box spring that is affordable. You don’t have to sacrifice your health and comfort just to save money. There are many mattress beds available.
• If you want to protect your mattress from dust and mould, building a temporary or DIY bed frame can be a good option. These frames are easy to build and can be made out of recycled pallets or furniture.
• Futons and couch beds can be cheaper than mattress and frame sets but still provide comfort. See which ones we think are the best in our article The Best Sofa Beds Australia 2022.

Wrapping up.

Do not rush to put your mattress on the ground. Take your time and consider all your options. You might think sleeping on a mattress alone will save you money. However, you may end up spending more in the long run because you need to buy a new bed earlier than you expected.