Does your bed really need a box spring?

When you buy a mattress, the box spring is usually an afterthought, and it can be a costly one.

With many of the new memory foam and latex mattresses, though, many people wonder if the extra cost of the box spring is necessary.

“You may be tempted to skip the cost of a box spring, but depending on where you buy the mattress and what type of mattress you’re buying that can be a really tricky decision," said Consumer Reports Home Editor Haniya Rae.

According to the Better Sleep Council, the foundation is responsible for much of a bed’s comfort and support. Some mattress companies sell both and even recommend pairing their beds with their foundations.

But what about memory foam and latex mattresses?

“Some memory foam and latex mattress sellers will say all you really need is a sturdy surface,” Rae said.

For example, some companies, including Lull, say their mattress will work with anything from a box spring to a slatted bed frame or even the floor. Still, other companies recommend a foundation or a slatted or solid "bunkie board" or bed frame.

Consumer Reports says buyers should do a little research before choosing a mattress and follow the manufacturers advice.

“It really all comes down to the warranty," Rae said. "If you don’t follow the manufacturer’s instructions then you might be voiding the warranty and that might cost you in the long run."

Consumer Reports recently gave the $1,400 Avocado Green innerspring mattress its top rating. The company's warranty requires a "rigid, solid surface or slatted bed base."