What Is A Box Spring
To understand the necessity of a box spring, we need to go back in history a bit. Mattresses used to be made from materials like horsehair, cotton, wool, and metal springs without foam in them.
Although they were long-lasting, they didnt have great support. Over time, they formed a padded layer, becoming firm and rigid, not plushy or soft. To combat this problem, the industry introduced box springs.
Ancient box springs were wooden slat structures and springs supported with padding layers and upholstery. When you lie on the bed, your weight will compress the flexible steel spring grids in the bed, which compressed the springs in the box spring. The compression created a softer feeling because it allowed your body to sink further into the mattress.
Box springs were made to increase comfort and support. Even though the best mattresses nowadays come in different forms, such as memory foam mattresses, spring mattresses, latex mattresses, innerspring mattresses, and hybrid mattresses that have shock absorbers and adequate support, they are still widely in demand.
A box spring will add movement and flexibility to your mattress because of its bouncy qualities. The bouncy surface is a huge selling point that keeps buyers coming back for more.
Another one is that it helps to reduce wear and tear on your mattress since you go in and out of your bed to do things other than sleeping. You can climb into your bed to sit or to play.
Reinforced Metal Bed Frame
More supportive that a collapsible metal frame, a reinforced metal frame would not generally need a boxspring. The additional metal supports across the frame help provide even weight distribution throughout the frame. This limits sagging or uneven wear on the mattress and essentially offers the same supportive foundation that a traditional boxspring would provide.
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Can A Bad Box Spring Ruin A Mattress
Mattresses can be an expensive purchase, especially if you are looking at higher-end ones, so making sure it doesnt get ruined is important. To answer the question, can a bad box spring ruin a mattress, we need to decide, what makes a bad box spring? A bad box spring can consist of quite a few things like:
- The size of the mattress and box spring not matching up
- If there is any damage done to the box spring
- Sagging, overhang, or soft spots
- A frame that doesnt support the style of mattress that you have
Having a bad combination of these two important items can cause you to not get the type of rest youre looking for. What do you compare when considering your old box spring and your new mattress? The questions can seem endless so here are a few things to look at:
- Compare your new mattresss size to your box spring, checking height as well
- Its also important to check your box springs weight limit
If you keep these things in mind, you will be able to figure out whether or not your new mattress will work with your old box spring.
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What Kind Of Bed Foundation Do I Need
For many years, box springs have been the standard foundation for most mattresses, but with more modern, high-quality mattresses on the market, there are more options available to us. From
For many years, box springs have been the standard foundation for most mattresses, but with more modern, high-quality mattresses on the market, there are more options available to us. From solid to slatted foundationsunderstanding which one is right for you can be confusing. To answer all of your foundation-related questions, we have put together this comprehensive guide.
What About Using A Memory Foam Mattress Topper On A Box Spring
If using a memory foam mattress topper on an innerspring mattress sounds like a good combination, it might seem like using a memory foam mattress topper on a box spring would also be a good idea. This is not the case.
Using a memory foam mattress on a box spring has become more common as memory foam mattresses have become increasingly popular. However, using a memory foam mattress topper directly on a box spring is not the same thing and will not be an acceptable substitute.
When we talk about innerspring mattresses and box springs, we are talking about different products and materials. These days, many innerspring mattresses already come with a built-in memory foam topping layer, so you might assume that putting a memory foam mattress topper directly on top of a traditional box spring would achieve a similar result. That wouldnt be the case. The springs in a box spring are not close enough together, and a box spring doesnt have the other components that go into a mattress, so it cannot provide the same support for a mattress topper that an actual innerspring mattress would.
A primary virtue of the construction of a box spring is that it allows air circulation and cooling, and that alleviates one of the disadvantages of a memory foam mattress topper, which is sweating during sleep and heat retention. However, using a box spring directly under a mattress topper can result in a bed that is actually too cold.
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How To Protect My Memory Foam Mattress
While providing a solid base for your memory foam mattress is essential to extending its lifespan, caring for your bed does not stop there. Check out these tips on how you can protect your foam mattress.
- Do not jump on your foam mattress
- Keep it out of direct sunlight
- Use a mattress cover
- Let it breathe
- Rotate it every six months
If you already have a box spring in place, you can get away with a new memory mattress on top of your older one. Usually, a mattress needs a solid foundation, like a box spring, so that the beds structure does not break down. Most newer mattresses need a sturdy metal frame to keep their overall firm structure and solid shape.
Prevent And Relieve Pain
The unique mixture of support and pressure point relief offered by a memory foam mattress sets the stage for preventing and relieving pain. Owners of memory foam mattresses have reported reduced pain in the shoulders, hips, and back.
Likewise, its a favorite for people with painful conditions, such as fibromyalgia and arthritis. With the foams ability to support correct alignment and relieve pressure on the sensitive spots, memory foam sleepers will experience optimum comfort.
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When Does A Memory Foam Mattress Require A Box Spring
If your bed is of the platform variety , then the bed itself will be strong enough to serve as a foundation and support the mattress on its own. If your bed is a panel bed and/or features only five slats or less, than you will need an additional box spring or other foundation to support the mattress.
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What Are Box Springs And What Are They Used For
Most standard box springs comprise a sturdy wooden frame filled with a secure set of wire coils to provide support for your mattress, improve airflow around it, and to provide shock absorption too. Box springs are wrapped in fabric, so they can look similar to the mattress when placed on a bed frame. They can be stylish and versatile, like the Zinus Jayanna Steel BiFold Box Spring , or they can be plainer, like the .
Other reasons that you might want to use a box spring include raising your mattress higher this is a good idea if youre tall and to provide a more stable foundation if youre using a collapsible metal bed frame.
Box frames provide support for more traditional and thinner innerspring mattresses, but because mattress tech has developed so much in the past few years, box springs are not as widely used. Sometimes they can actually be worse for modern mattresses. Lets look at why that might be
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Can You Put A Mattress Directly On Slats
Yes, you can. Before you do, though, make sure the slats are at least 0.5 inches thick and no more than 2.75 inches apart. These measurements will ensure that your base can support a memory foam mattress. Otherwise, the slats might break or bend under the mattress or leave room for parts of the bed to sink beneath the slats.
Bed Frames That Do Not Require A Box Spring
Unless the mattress warranty tells otherwise, the answer to the question do you need a box spring? with the following bed frames is NO.
If youre using any of these bed frames, its not necessary to add box spring :
- Solid platform frame. It plays the same role as the base and provides a stable base that makes sure your mattress is not sagging prematurely.
- Platform frame with slats. Different from a solid platform frame, it uses slats to form the base for your mattress.
- Adjustable frame. Its quite evident that box spring would not work together with an adjustable bed frame and would only interfere with its functionality.
- Reinforced metal frame. Reinforced frames add additional support from side to side and make sure that the weight of your mattress is distributed evenly.
Therefore, if while reading this article, you answered the question – do you need a box spring? negatively, these bed frame options are exactly what you need.
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Allows The Mattress To Work For You
Memory foam, latex foam, and hybrid mattresses contour to the body, so your muscles can recover as you sleep. These beds provide the perfect combination of cushioning and support so your spine remains in a safe, neutral position.
Without the right foundation, the mattress will begin to sag in certain places. As this happens, your body will also sinkforcing your spine out of alignment. When the spine is not straight, our bodies have to overcompensate for the lack of support by sleeping in uncomfortable positions. However, a stable support base will allow you to get the most out of your advanced mattress.
Using A Memory Foam Mattress Topper On An Innerspring Mattress A Good Idea
Many mattress toppers are made of memory foam. They are often added to innerspring mattresses.
Using a memory foam mattress topper on top of an innerspring mattress has many advantages. The mattress provides support, firmness, and resilience, while the mattress topper provides cushioning and softness. The topper also increases air circulation and can provide additional warmth or cooling.
An innerspring mattress structure is slightly firmer than other mattresses, and the memory foam mattress topper will help to improve its comfort. A mattress needs to maintain its firmness to provide as much support as possible to your body, while a thick memory foam mattress topper can comfortably cradle and conform to your body. A memory foam mattress topper can also help to reduce movements an innerspring mattress from transmitting when your partner moves or turns which disturbs healthy sleep.
Memory foam mattress toppers are known for retaining heat and becoming uncomfortable to sleep on. For ways to fix a mattress topper that sleeps too hot read our article which covers handy tips and alternatives to cool down your bed. In contrast, an innerspring mattress is designed with a structure that allows air circulation which can reduce this problem. The combination can improve the overall balance of warmth and airflow.
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Twin Size Bed Foundation
38 inches by 75 inches
Twin size mattresses are a popular choice for kids and toddlers who have outgrown their cribs. These mattresses offer enough room to accommodate them as they grow, but wont take up valuable floor space in their bedroom. With a 11 by 12-foot bedroom, a twin bed leaves plenty of open space around the bed.
Box Spring Vs Foundation Vs Platform Bed
Most mattresses require something between the mattress and the floor. While many beds actually function just fine when placed directly on the floor, this restricts airflow and can lead to unsanitary conditions. So, most people will want to use some sort of foundation whether thats a box spring, a foundation, or a platform bed depends on the type of mattress you choose, as well as personal preference.
A box spring is a simple support consisting of a wooden/metal frame, filled with metal coils/springs or a metal grid, and wrapped in fabric. They are primarily used for innerspring mattresses. Typically box springs are designed to sit on top of a bed frame.
A foundation is another type of support system that usually consists of wooden slats or flat solid frames. They function similarly to box springs, but they dont actually contain metal springs. Foundations offer a very firm surface for mattresses to rest on, making them a good choice for foam beds. Most foundations are designed to be used with a bed frame, although some companies offer free-standing versions.
A platform bed combines both a foundation for your bed as well as a frame to keep it off the ground. Most have wooden legs to elevate the frame, while some include storage drawers reaching down to the ground level. Platform beds offer an all-in-one solution, but they can be pricier than other options.
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Logan Foley
Certified Sleep Coach
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Do You Need A Box Spring
For most mattresses, having something between the mattress itself and the floor is helpful. Whether this should be a box spring, a foundation, or a platform bed depends on several factors.
All mattresses will benefit from having a firm, solid foundation to rest on. Box springs were created to help absorb impact, reducing the wear and tear on the mattress. However, box springs were more prevalent when mattresses had much thinner profiles overall, and were primarily innerspring designs. Today, most modern mattresses do not necessarily require a box spring.
Whether or not you should use a box spring depends on a few factors. The main people that should use a box spring include:
- Those using a traditional metal rail bed frame, which is designed to cradle box springs
- Those with an older innerspring mattress designed for use with a box spring
- Those with a mattress whose manufacturer specifically recommends box springs
- Those who want to elevate their bed to make it easier to get in and out of
The main people who should not use a box spring include:
- Those with newer memory foam, latex, or hybrid mattresses
- Those who prefer the style or functionality of a platform bed, wood foundation, or other kind of bed base
- Those who prefer to sleep with a mattress directly on the floor
Do Slats Ruin Mattresses
So long as the beds slats are appropriately spaced and secured to the bed frame, your mattress should be safe on a slatted foundation or platform bed. If the bed frames slats are further than 2 to 2.75 inches apart, your mattress is at risk of dipping between the gaps and sagging. Unsecured slats can slide out of place and leave your mattress unsupported.
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Are Box Springs Bad For Memory Foam Mattresses
Unfortunately yes! A box spring is bad for a memory foam mattress. It is because the box spring does not provide adequate support to the weight of memory foam mattresses. Thats why a box spring is not the right foundation for memory foam mattresses.
Since box springs are made of metal wire, they can cause harm or damage to the memory foam mattresses. Memory foam mattresses are designed with delicate fabric that is soft and firm at the same time. Hence, they need to be used in a careful manner without getting damaged.
Memory foam mattresses are more advanced and thus it does not require the traditional box spring method to provide support to the mattress. They require a firm foundation that is breathable and does not sag over time like box springs.
What Can You Do With Old Box Springs
Okay, so youve read this whole explanation, and youre ready to throw out your old box spring. Hold on just a minute! Are you a crafty person? Maybe you have considered dabbling in some DIY projects, or maybe you need some extra shelves or storage space. Look no further than your very own box spring.
Rip off the outer fabric of your box spring and tear out the springs. You can use the wood slats that remain as a replacement for your box spring. Or, you can even use it as shelving for storage or as a way to display certain knick-knacks or a certain prized collection you may have. Keep the springs on and use those to hang decorations or even lights from. The possibilities of upcycling that box spring are endless!
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Check Your Bed Of Choice
Not all beds need a box spring or a mattress foundation. Some obviously do, such as the collapsible metal types, but with the advancement in bed technology, not all beds need foundational support. If you have a platform bed or a reinforced metal frame, you wont be needing a box spring, new or old. Check your bed type to determine this.
Types Of Box Springs: Clearing Up The Coil Confusion
Stumped over all the different types of box springs? Well spring into action to get to the bottom of your questions.
Choosing the right box spring can add support, height, and bounce to your mattress. Using the wrong one can damage your mattress in the long run. Its helpful to know if you need a box spring, and, if you do, which kinds are available.
In this guide, well walk you through the types of box springs and box spring sizes. Then, well give you six simple steps to choosing the right bed base for you.
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