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Do You Need A Mattress And Box Spring

Pros And Cons Of A Box Spring

Do You Need A Box Spring? – Everything There Is To Know!

Both box springs and foundations raise your mattress to a comfortable level and can be great mattress support, depending on your mattress type. Here are some pros and cons to keep in mind when making your choice.

Pros of a box spring

Cons of a box spring

Provides support for thinner innerspring mattresses

Can be noisy because of the coils

Reduces motion transfer from innerspring mattresses

Isnt compatible with memory foam or latex mattresses

Promotes better airflow for cooler sleep

Coils may break down over time, leading to sagging

A Modern Addition To Your Bedroom

Sleek. Modern. Clean-cut. These are all proper ways to describe platform mattress foundations and its likely a reason home design company Houzz has an entire section of their website dedicated to integrating platform beds into modern bedroom design.

At Sleeping Organic, we choose to carry the line manufactured by Urban Woods because of their quality craftsmanship and commitment to sustainable manufacturing. Urban Woods also has lots of styles to choose from, which means you can easily match one of their wood finishes with the design of your room. Heres a sample of the finishes you can select from when you buy an Urban Woods platform bed:

What Is A Box Spring

A boxspring is a support for your mattress thats manufactured to be the same size as the bed. It consists of a wooden frame filled with springs and wrapped in fabric. It sits directly under the mattress, providing support.

The box spring is intended to serve a few purposes:

  • To provide underlying support for the mattress
  • To raise the mattress up to a more comfortable height
  • To protect the mattress by absorbing impact
  • To improve airflow, which helps to keep the mattress cooler

Box springs provide support, but are also able to absorb some shock from the mattress itself. This is a good feature for innerspring beds, but can be damaging for foam mattresses. A foam bed, which lacks the rigid structure of an innerspring mattress, should be used with a very solid support base, such as a platform bed.

Over a decade ago, a box spring was essentially required when buying a new mattress. Today, thats not necessarily the case. While some types of mattresses still require box springs, others do not.

The term box spring refers to the traditional design that uses actual springs surrounded by a wooden or metal frame. There are other types of supports that you can use under a mattress, including platform beds and foundations.

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How Often Do You Use The Mattress

Your mattress will lose support if you use it every night. This is not the case for those who use it occasionally. If you only use the mattress when guests come to your home, then you dont have to rotate it once every three months. Perhaps, you can rotate the mattress twice a year.

You must follow the manufacturers manual before you make this crucial change. To rotate the mattress, you should complete a 180-degree rotation.

How Do Adjustable Beds Improve Aches And Pains

Do You Need A Boxspring With A Bed Frame

Its no secret that raising your head up as you sleep has big benefits for both snoring and sleep apnea. So if you have these problems, keep an eye on adjustable beds because they may just solve your nightly annoyances.

People with lower back pain are typically advised by doctors to invest in an adjustable bed because of the superior support these foundations provide the spinal column. More support for your spine can lead to fewer body aches.

According to Spinal Health, adjustable beds can help relieve a number of back back conditions, including but not limited to degenerative spondylolisthesis, osteoarthritis, and spinal stenosis. If you have any of these issues, then please consult a doctor before ordering your new bed.

Newer adjustable models now have unique lumbar support features where the adjustable base helps raise the mattress to support the lumbar area of your lower back. This helps tremendously if you have lower back pain. Truly amazing technology!

Because adjustable beds raise your feet with the push of a button, youll love this mattress foundation if you suffer from foot pain, ankle pain, or even restless leg syndrome.

Raising the bottom section of the base provides a slight incline, which takes pressure off your lower body. Then whenever you desire, you can lower it back down to a flat position.

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Raises The Mattress From The Ground

Sometimes, placing your mattress directly on the ground can make sleeping uncomfortable, and cause back pains. For example, if your mattress is thin, you may feel the stiffness of the base through it, so it wont offer the back support you might need.

The stiffness increases pressure on your joints and back, causing discomfort while sleeping. A box spring not only elevates the mattress off the ground, but also provides a bouncier and medium-firm surface for your comfort.

Are Box Springs Necessary For Your Mattress

Before you jump in and buy a box spring for your mattress, check that it is compatible. If you have a thinner innerspring mattress and a traditional metal bed frame, then using a box spring should be fine. If you have a hybrid, latex or all-foam mattress, then a box spring might not be suitable as the mattress could be too heavy for it. These newer models also use materials that are natural shock absorbers, so you wont need this feature from a box spring.

Other reasons to use a box spring include because the mattress manufacturer recommends it. If you arent sure, then check the brands website first or contact them via customer service. In some instances using a box spring can actually invalidate a warranty or damage the mattress, so definitely check beforehand.

If you want to add height to your bed, then a boxspring is a good solution. But if your mattress doesnt fit with a box spring, consider using a good mattress topper to add comfort and a few extra inches . You could also use a bed riser . Alternatively, there are plenty of brands that offer thicker mattresses that will help boost the height of your bed.

Remember, box springs are only really recommended if you have an innerspring mattress. If you have a bed in a box, then box springs are generally not a good fit.

Recommended Reading: How Much Does A King Size Tempurpedic Mattress Cost

What Types Of Box Springs Can You Use With A Memory Foam Mattress

So, your new memory foam mattress needs a sturdy foundation but what kind of foundation is best, and exactly how sturdy does it need to be? The simple way to tell which mattress foundation will work best for your memory foam mattress is by how many slats the foundation contains. A mattress foundation with five or less slats will not be enough to support a memory foam mattress, even if you are planning on placing the foundation on top of a bed frame. Instead, look to pair your memory foam mattress with a foundation that has six or more slats, spaced seven or less inches apart. If you prefer to pass up the traditional box spring with slats for a bunky board or solid foundation, that is also perfectly fine for a memory foam mattress.

Wood Slat Foundations Vs Box Springs

Do I need a Box Spring? – Bunkie Board vs Box Spring

Comparing a wood foundation and a box spring is easy when you consider the main points

Take a look at the picture of our premium RTA mattress foundation above. The design leaves ample room for airflow compared to an outdated box spring, which greatly decreases the likelihood youll experience mold and mildew growth under your bed. And if youre like me, Im sure you can agree that this is a positive!

Is your old box spring contributing to your poor sleep quality? Theres a high likelihood it is!

Box springs create pressure points, dipping, and sagging because certain areas are either more firm or softer than others. There isnt an even distribution of pressure, which is necessary with latex and memory foam mattresses.

Keep in mind that even though these pressure points wont be obvious when you first sit or lay down on a bed, youll definitely notice them after a night or two of sleep. After months of sleeping on it, youll recognize this as normal, but it certainly is not. Lower back pain is usually a manifestation of this issue.

You dont deserve an uncomfortable sleep just because of a product thats unrelated to your mattress quality!

The strong core of an RTA wood foundation when compared to a box spring is clear. Especially when made from the right kind of wood, RTA foundations will provide better support for you than a box spring ever could even if it wanted to!

As long as theyre made from high quality materials, foundations made from wood also last longer!

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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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Why Do You Need A Box Spring

Although most modern mattresses don’t need a box spring to be comfortable some mattress warranties still require a box spring. In some cases adding a box spring to your mattress enhances the comfort and support you get from your bed. The information below should answer the question, ‘Do I Need a Boxspring?’

A box spring is necessary if:

  • Your mattress warranty requires one, helps to prevent your mattress from breaking down

  • You’re using a bed frame

  • Your mattress is a traditional double-sided innerspring

  • You need or want the extra height, to make it easier to get into and out of bed

  • You want the added bounce and support a box spring offers

Sometimes a different type of foundation works better, depending on the type of mattress and your personal preferences. Learn more about that in our Foundation Guide.

Also Check: Do You Have To Have Box Springs With A Mattress

Popular Mattress Foundation Choices

Here are some of the most popular mattress foundation choices available today, that can work for most mattress choices:

Box Spring

A sturdy and lightweight box spring foundation choice that can be placed on a metal platform base if you are in need of a box spring base.

Adjustable Bed Frame

This option allows sleepers to adjust their bed into a number of positions. It is a popular foundation choice for people who experience certain health issues as well.

Platform Bed

A platform bed is a durable, stylish choice, and modern bed frame, which can be a slatted or solid support.

Slatted Bed

A simple slotted foundation platform that uses long slats across the bottom of the frame, to hold a mattress in its place.

Metal Platform Base

A metal foundation is a solid way to support and raise a mattress.

How Tall Are Box Springs

Consumer Reports: Do you need to buy a box spring with ...

Box springs are generally 9 inches in height although some can be around 7 or 8 inches too. If you need the extra height because you are tall or find it easier to get in and out of bed more easily when you have that extra height, then box springs are a good solution. If you want something other than the standard box-spring height, there are much taller options available.

Read Also: What’s The Average Size Of A Queen Mattress

Good Bases For Your Foam Or Hybrid Mattress

Like we mentioned before, a box spring won’t give your foam or hybrid mattress enough support and over time, your bed will start to sag through the gaps in your box spring. Don’t stresswe’ve broken down the different types of bases and foundations that will work with your Leesa or Sapira mattress so you can rest on.

Do You Need A Spring Box

Yes, you need a box spring if youre still using the traditional metal rail bed frame. You do not need box springs if you own newer memory foam, latex, or hybrid mattresses or prefer to sleep with your mattress on the floor.

So, its a straightforward question with a little bit of a maybe/maybe not answer.

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Not All Box Springs Are Created Equal

Over the years, many mattress manufacturers and retailers were looking for ways to cut costs, so they simply stopped making real working box springs. Instead, theyve switched to foundations.

These foundations may look similar to real working box springs from the outside, but when you take a look inside, youll see they look quite different. When you compare a real box spring to a foundation, youll see that the foundation has less wire and isnt designed to have any give.

When you sit on the edge of a mattress with a foundation, youll notice that the foundation doesnt flex. That means that it wont act as a shock absorber for your mattress, which could affect its long-term durability.

Should Mattresses Be Flipped

Do I Need a Box Spring for my Memory Foam Mattress?

Flipping your mattress could give it a new lease of life. When sleeping on a mattress for a long time, your body created an indentation that may not provide the most optimal sleep comfort as it once did. Flipping your mattress gives you a new sleep space to enjoy but be careful as a one-sided mattress can not be flipped.

Read Also: Why A Firm Mattress Is Better

Does A Box Spring Make A Difference

The layer of coils in the box spring promotes airflow. The springs add give to your mattress and absorb your body weight. Box springs are a popular choice complementing innerspring mattresses because the layer of coils in the mattress aligns with the coils in the box spring, making your mattress softer.

Improves Breathability Of Your Mattress

A box spring allows adequate airflow beneath the mattress, because it elevates it off the ground. Additionally, the springs enable air to pass through your mattress to create a cooling effect while sleeping. This is especially important for hot sleepers, stomach sleepers, and people with breathing difficulties.

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Foundation + Metal Bed Frame

One of the most common foundation setups youll find is a foundation and metal bed frame duo. Since basic wood foundations dont have legs, putting it on a metal bed frame lifts your bed off the ground and gives you room under your bed for extra storage. This is a low-profile, basic bed base option and you can usually get both of these pieces without breaking the bank.

Better Mattress Foundation: Platform Beds Vs Box Springs

Do You Need A Box Spring? With a Platform bed? 10 pg ...

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.

Also Check: How Much Is Queen Mattress

What Do You Put Under A Memory Foam Mattress

All that is required to support your new memory foam mattress is a solid foundation. Bunkie boards, metal bases, wooden slats, or the floor will give you the support you need. Firm box springs would be okay. Make sure to keep a check for any wear and tear to keep your memory foam mattress in good condition. An old box spring is not a good choice.

Do Hybrid Mattresses Need Box Springs

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  • So you walk into a Mattress Store to purchase a new hybrid mattress, and the salesperson informs you that you need the same brand designed Box Spring to prevent you from voiding the warranty on the mattress. Do you want to go ahead and do it? Is it truly necessary to purchase a new box spring? Is it truly designed to fit that hybrid mattress?

    Also Check: What Inch Memory Foam Mattress To Buy

    What Can I Put Under My Mattress To Make It Higher

    #1 Bed Risers

    • Plastic: These bed risers are the most common and often the easiest to install.
    • Metal: Metal risers bring increased stability and durability over the plastic option.
    • Wood: Wooden risers provide yet another durable alternative that often brings excellent aesthetics to your bed setup.

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