Alternatives To Box Springs And Foundations
In addition to box springs and foundations, there are several other options for supporting a mattress during the night. These include adjustable bases and platform beds. Adjustable bases are ideal for snorers, or sufferers of sleep apnea, as they have a remote that allows the for the bed to be adjusted in terms of elevation and angle between 40 and 70 degrees. Platform beds are simple bed frames that sit on the ground and do not require a box spring or foundation. They are solid pieces of wood that are space saving and have a modern design appeal. The ideal foundation for your mattress will largely depend upon your unique sleep preferences and desired mattress type, so if youre unsure of the type of mattress you are looking for, it may help to review our mattress guides to help narrow down your options.
May Increase Body Pains
This issue goes both ways. Some individuals may feel better while sleeping on the floor, while others may develop these pains instead.
This is because the floor is stiff, and depending on the comfort and support your body needs, sleeping on the floor might be good or bad for you. Additionally, the quality of your mattress also matters – thinner mattresses may feel too uncomfortable while on the floor.
What Mattress Base Is Right For You Explore 5 Types Of Bed Frames & Bases
The foundation of your house is what keeps your home standing strong and tall. A mattress base serves the same purpose but keeps you and your bed in good standing. You need a good nights sleep to live a healthy and productive life. Whats essential to a good night of sleep? A great mattress.
But did you know that what goes under your mattress plays just as an important role as your mattress itself?
The type of bed frame you choose depends on your bed style, whether memory foam, innerspring, hybrid, and so on. When it comes to the different types of bed frames to choose from, there are numerous options, which can be overwhelming. Below, well help make your decision easier by covering the various types of bed frames available to you. This way, youll be able to sleep peacefully for those 8 hours each night knowing you chose one that works best for you and your mattress.
1. Box Spring
Box springs have been the most popular mattress base since innerspring mattresses came into vogue in the early 1900s. An innerspring mattress is what you probably think of when the word bed comes into mind. Innerspring mattresses feature a series of coils that come in different shapes and structures, along with varying patterns of spacing, to increase comfort. Typically, the more coils, the more comfortable the bed is.
2. Foundation
3. Platform
4. Adjustable
- Bunk
Whats the Difference Between a Bed Frame and a Foundation?
Whats the Difference Between a Box Spring and Mattress Foundation?
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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.
Like this look? Read my review of Purples bed frame
Did We Answer Your Question
So, does your memory foam mattress need a need box springs? No. However, they do need a foundation a solid structure with a flat surface or slats less than 2.75 inches apart.
You have infinite styles of foundations to choose from, but for the most cooling sleep experience, youll want a base with slats. If you want to save money or prefer the simplicity, placing your mattress on the floor is another viable option, just double-check with the retailer to ensure setting your mattress on the floor wont void your warranty.
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Opt For An Adjustable Base
For added luxury and customization, consider an adjustable base. Use the wireless remote control to position your bed any way you like, including elevating your feet and your head for added comfort and benefits.
Want to learn more about your options? Take a look at our mattress foundation comparisons here for more information.
The Low Profile Box Spring
For those who’d prefer a box spring that does its job, but lets other elements like a quilted duvet or half a dozen fluffy throw pillows shine, look no further than our Josie Metal Mattress Foundation. The Josie keeps a low profile in more ways than one, with its one inch legs that give you just enough distance from the floor but lend themselves perfectly to a foundation for taller mattresses.
Read Also: Can You Put A Casper Mattress On A Box Spring
How To Set Up A Box Spring
Typically box springs come fully assembled, so you would just place it where you want it. Some box spring/foundations, like a smart box spring, that go above and beyond a traditional box spring may have a few parts to put together, but it should be easy assembly with instructions. These are usually metal box springs with a fabric covering that act as a complete foundation.
In a complete bed set, box springs are typically placed on a bed frame that connects to the headboard and footboard. It’s also common to see mattresses and box springs used together without a complete bed frame.
Those who don’t feel the need to have a decorative-looking bed can simply place their box spring on the floor or on casters, with the mattress on top.
With large mattresses, like a king-size, the box spring can be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces in your home. In this case, it may be beneficial to purchase a split box spring, which is split into two halves.
Box Spring Alternative : Platform Bed
Platform beds are made of a wooden frame with wooden slats on top. They may also be made of a metal frame with steel slats, all of which provide a sturdy foundation for the mattress. Platform beds come in a variety of styles to give your bedroom a modern look in contrast to box springs . Heres a 30 page guide to platform beds that weve written.
Regular platform beds are generally affordable. Most of these beds have storage options like drawers under the bed in contrast to box springs that have no space for storage. Additionally, platform beds offer better ventilation for the mattress and thus save the mattress from trapped moisture. Heres a great platform bed with storage built-in.
Platform beds are at a lower height from the ground than box spring beds, which makes it inconvenient for people with physical conditions to get up or get into bed. Wood platform beds can decay and break over time and may not withstand heavyweight sleepers. On the other hand, metal platform beds are more durable because they dont bend or wear over time, and they can withstand weight. Our favorite platform beds are linked here.
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Platform Bed Frame Solid
Platform beds utilize a solid surface, so you would not need a boxspring. This solid surface accomplishes the same goal of the boxspring by providing a stable platform.
Generally, platform beds are lower than a traditional mattress would be with a boxspring, which can be a desirable and modern aesthetic you may want to achieve for your bedroom. However, for older sleepers or those who suffer from back, hip, or joint pain, a low platform bed may be more difficult to get in and out of.
US Box Spring offers natural wood foundations that will ship directly to your door. Click the link to head over to their site and learn more!
Wooden Slat Bed Supports
These are sets of wooden slats arranged for optimal ventilation on a platform. They’re usually supportive for heavy mattresses, noise-free and offer a remarkable amount of space underneath for storage. They aren’t too pricey and work as a great budget option for those who find full frames too expensive.
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Construction Of A Box Spring
As the name implies, a traditional box spring has a wooden box-like frame filled with steel springs. When used with a traditional mattress, it absorbs the shock from movements, deters sagging by holding up the mattress, and increases the beds height.
The coils or slats inside a box spring are traditionally more than 2.75 inches apart. When used with a foam mattress, the bed is liable to dip between the coils or slats, causing the mattresss materials to lose support and wear down prematurely.
The box spring can also flex under the memory foam mattress, leaving your bed with an indentation in the middle. If your mattress develops this indentation, youre likely to find yourself rolling into the middle of the mattress against your will.
Better Mattress Foundation: Platform Beds Vs Box Springs
Though they have a higher upfront cost, consumers who invest in a quality platform bed can save money in the long run for the same reasons we discussed with non-platform wood foundations. They wont break down over time like box springs do.
And depending on the exact model you choose, you may not have to worry about spending more money on a headboard and footboard. Most platform beds come as one unit, meaning the headboard, footboard, and bed frame are all attached as one unit. Keep this in mind as youre considering how much platform beds cost.
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Platform Bed Frame Slats
Some platform beds are a slight variation of the traditional platform bed. These use slats for support instead of the solid foundation. As long as the slats are close enough together to satisfy the mattress warranty, this frame would not need a boxspring either.
ExampleZinus Modern Studio slat frame and the Forever Foundation
As a general rule of thumb, slats should not exceed 4 apart from each other. The slats can come flexed or straight and are available in wood, metal, plastics, or even composite materials. Steel slats are going to be the strongest in these types of frames since they create a more rigid support. Lastly, the slat gap is commonly indicated on mattress warranties. Ensure your slat gaps are appropriate to your mattress warranty.
Want the Sleepopolis bed? I use a platform frame from Copenhagen Imports. Its simple, but very sturdy and well made.
Note: Take our mattress quiz if youre starting your search for a new bed!
How Long Does A Hybrid Mattress Last
Hybrid or not, the general recommended lifespan of a mattress is 10 years. Thats a solid general guideline, but your mattress lifespan may vary based on amount of use as well as how many people are in the bed. The good thing about an Allswell mattress is that we offer a 10-year limited warranty*, so you can live happily with your mattress and it can have a happy life, too.
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Do Latex Mattresses Need Box Springs
Both latex mattresses and memory foam mattresses are heavier than traditional mattresses. For this reason, they both require a strong, rigid base that will support the weight of the mattress, your body, and varying indentations over long periods of time. Its important to know that latex mattresses will conform to whatever surface they are on. Box springs have an innate give that will lead to dipping and sagging in your mattress due to inadequate support. So if youre looking for a foundation for your latex or foam mattress, I advise you select one of our recommended box spring alternatives below.
Do You Need A Box Spring What Are Alternatives To Box Springs
Box springs are not the only option that offers support to your mattress. Some of the alternatives to box springs are: Platform beds, bed slats, adjustable beds and no-foundation underneath your mattress. Lets shed some light on those different types of foundations and take a look at their advantages and disadvantages compared to those of a box spring.
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Stops Your Mattress From Sliding
The right bed foundation will prevent your mattress from sliding. This is especially important if you tend to be a sleeper who tosses and turns frequently. If your mattress slides around too much, it could hang off the base and potentially lose its structural support. The right bed foundation will keep your mattress in place.
What About A Bunkie Board
If youve been Googling bed bases, youve probably come across a bunkie board. Typically found in bunk beds, thus the name bunkie, these boards are designed to work with traditional metal bed frames and provide support to mattresses that are being used without a foundation. A bunkie board is thick piece of plywood used to increase the firmness of box springs. Because of its solid, smooth surface, a bunkie board could be used to support your foam mattress, but may not be as good of an option as something more solid like a foundation, platform bed or adjustable base.
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No You Do Not Need A Box Spring With A Memory Foam Mattress
Does A Memory Foam Mattress Need A Box Spring? Nectar mattresses employ memory foam, a technological breakthrough that until recently was only available at high price points. Thanks to Nectars dedication to keep their price point down, everyone can now afford the most comfortable mattress at a reasonable cost. Memory foam mattress provides lumbar support better than any previous mattress material, but what else do you need to make the most comfortable mattress into the most comfortable bed? The short answer is no. The long answer is a bit more fun. Heres a breakdown.
When To Skip The Box Spring
Many of today’s modern, bed-in-a-box mattresses are made either all or partially of memory foam or latex foam. It’s typically recommended to skip the box spring when setting these up, foam mattress brand Casper explains, because “the slats on older box springs are too apart to support the weight of a foam mattress, and that lack of support can cause it to sag.” Instead, the company suggests a platform with slats closer together. Eco-friendly mattress brand Avocado Green also advises strongly against using box springs with its hybrid and latex mattresses, recommending firmer, sturdier foundations instead.
Read more: Why you shouldn’t use a box spring with a foam mattress
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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.
Why Should You Rotate Your Mattress
Overuse of certain areas sags your mattress. Sleeping on a sagging mattress disturbs the neutral alignment of your spine. Spinal misalignment triggers back pain, neck aches, and muscle stiffness. Rotating your mattress allows one area to recover from regular use, as another area gets used. It prevents mattress wear, extending durability.
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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
Frames That Must Have Boxsprings
Both of these support systems would require the use of a box spring:
Above are 2 common bed frames that may be very similar to what you currently own but can you place a mattress directly on them? No, not as they are shown. The important thing to notice is that all of these systems have center support bars or extra slats. While they are all strong and made of angle iron and steel, they all have one, two, and even as many as four slats spanning the beds width.
These are perfect examples of what a mattress by itself should NOT be placed upon. Our recommendation is a closely spaced slat pack with some strategically placed sturdy legs in the middle which would be a more viable solution to consider if you are wanting to do away with a box spring or foundation.
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