Why Do You Need A Box Spring Under A Mattress

More Box Spring Alternatives

When youre shopping for the best foundation for a memory foam mattress, youll have a range of options. There are platform beds, panel beds, and adjustable bases, to name a few.

Just remember to check that your choice has the support a memory foam mattress needs. You might also want to check the height of the under-bed area, to calculate the amount of storage space the bed provides.

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.

What To Consider When Selecting A Foundation

So what are some of the important things one should consider when shopping for a new foundation? The most important thing to consider is the type of mattress for which the foundation will be used. Certain mattresses simply work better with certain foundations. Other things to consider include material choice , how easy it is to set up and take down the foundation, and the overall style of the foundation.

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Is A Box Spring Still Useful

Like I said above, a box spring can still do the job of providing a flat and firm structure for your mattress to lie on.

I advise against putting your mattress directly on the floor so a box spring can provide a platform for it. Heres why:

• Air cant circulate underneath the mattress. This is particularly a problem for foam mattresses because air cant move through the foam support core and mold can grow on the bottom if there is no air circulation underneath it.
• Allergies. Dust mites and other allergens love to live in our carpets. If you have your mattress directly on the floor, youre putting yourself a lot closer to them.
• Bed height. Having your mattress directly on the floor will make your bed quite low. Some people will find it hard to get in and out of bed if its too low.
• Many modern mattresses advise against putting their mattress directly on the floor. You dont want to risk voiding your warranty.

So a box spring will elevate your bed off the floor and do that job. You can get modern box springs that dont actually contain springs but there are loads of other ways you can keep your mattress off the floor without using a box spring.

Construction Of A Memory Foam Mattress

A memory foam mattress is not made up of just memory foam. Typically, only the top layer is memory foam, while the bottom layer or layers are stiffer, more supportive foams.

Since memory foam mattresses are made entirely out of foam, they can be heavy. Innerspring and hybrid mattresses can feel lighter because of the empty space in their coil bases.

The foams in the mattress are flexible, designed to conform to your body, and able to move with an adjustable base. However, this flexibility means the mattress requires consistent, uniform support to maintain its shape.

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Do Canopy Beds Need Box Springs

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Consequently, why do you need a box spring under a mattress?

The boxspring fulfills three needs: To raise the mattress higher off the ground so you‘re not stuck in your bed like a turtle on its back. To absorb impact and reduce the wear on the mattress. To give the mattress a strong, flat surface to sit on.

Additionally, what is the point of a box spring? The purpose of the box–spring is threefold: to raise the mattress’s height, making it easier to get in and out of bed to absorb shock and reduce wear to the mattress and. to create a flat and firm structure for the mattress to lie upon.

Keeping this in view, does an innerspring mattress need a boxspring?

For years, a mattress box spring was considered the natural choice to provide support for innerspring mattresses. But modern mattress technology no longer requires box springs for support â making sleek mattress foundations the obvious choice when it comes your bedroom setup.

Does a box spring make a bed more comfortable?

Basically, they compact over time and are firm and not soft and plushy. So, to make your mattress softer along comes the Box Spring. A Box Spring generally adds more movement to your mattress, since you are on a bouncy surface.

Things You Should Know Before Sleeping On A Mattress On The Floor

Sleeping on the floor without a mattress could provide comfort as some people say it aids their posture and eases back pain, learn more in our article here. Putting your mattress on the floor rather than a bed frame could be comfortable when done right. Lets talk about how to sleep on the floor and if its suitable for you.

When putting mattress on floor, there are a few things to take note of. Ensure the floor surface is clean and prepared

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Which Bed Frames Dont Need A Box Spring

There are also a variety of bed frames that do not require a traditional box spring, regardless of the mattress type. Weve already confirmed that slat bed frames dont need a box spring as long as the slats are appropriately distanced. The other options include:

• Solid platform bed frame
• Adjustable bed frame

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.

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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.

Does An Eco Terra Mattress Need A Box Spring

The Eco Terra Natural Hybrid mattress works well with any strong supportive base, including a box spring. You dont need to worry about buying a new foundation for your mattress if you already have a bed frame thats compatible with a box spring. All you need to ensure is that your new Eco Terra natural Hybrid mattress is well supported during use.

Also, if you have a platform bed, you dont need additional support from a box spring. Platform beds already have adequate support from the wooden slats, the headboards, and the footboards. Simply position your new mattress correctly on the bed to enjoy a luxurious sleep.

The Eco Terra Mattress is also compatible with most adjustable beds in the market because of its flexibility. The hybrid is made of all-organic latex, cotton, and wool to infuse the best of these qualities into your mattress. The latex is for flexibility, breathability, and support, while the cotton and wool provide the perfect cushioning with a touch of luxury. Thus, most types of mattress foundations are very compatible with the Eco Terra Natural Hybrid mattress.

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What Kinds Of Beds Need A Box Spring Can You Use A Box Spring With A Platform Bed

Bed designs have markedly evolved over the years. The only bed frame that requires a box spring are collapsible metal frames that have no support for the mattress other than the outer edges of the frame . The box spring in that case keeps your mattress off the floor, supports it properly, and protects it from sagging. This metal frame, for example, specifies that it should be used with a box spring and consequently it only costs ~$40.

Other kinds of beds, like platform frames made of solid wood, do not need a box spring because they form a sturdy and stable base for your mattress and therefore act exactly the same as a box spring.

Platform frames made of slats also provide sufficient support for your mattress without the need for a box spring, as long as the slats lie close enough together.

Beds with metal frames that have mattress supports do not require a box spring. They ensure that the weight of the mattress is evenly distributed so they protect the mattress from sagging.

Adjustable beds are made to shift the mattress position and height to meet with the sleepers needs. The adjustable base itself provides all the support needed and it doesnt make sense to use a box spring in this case. A box spring would negatively affect the functionality of the bed.

Platform Bed Vs Box Spring

Box springs are designed to provide firm support to the mattresses. Box springs are composed of wood and coils. The wood is of similar shape and size to the bed and provides support, while the coils placed in the center of the wooden frame absorb shock. On the other hand, The platform beds consist of a solid surface, and hence they do not require box springs. They provide the necessary firmness to the mattress.

Box springs are mainly used for innerspring mattresses. Platform beds offer an all-in-one solution but are most costlier than other options. The height of platform beds is slightly lower than the beds with box springs.

Check out our blog on platform bed vs. box spring to know which one is better.

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The Surface Of The Floor

When putting mattress on floor, there are a few things to take note of. Ensure the floor surface is clean and prepared.

The best floor surfaces are:

• Hardwood
• Floor mats

Take note to:

• Avoid plywood and natural fiber carpet and rugs as these can retain moisture, mold can thrive in a moisture-rich environment
• Vacuum the floor including baseboards and mop the area
• Check your mattress warranty or ask your mattress retailer for their guidelines on putting mattress on floor

How To Prep Your Floor For Your Mattress

Before putting your mattress directly on the floor, ensure youve safely packed away your bed base. Keep it in storage in case you change your mind. Vacuum the entire area, also vacuum the mattress. Mop the floor or use a carpet cleaner to ensure a fresh sleep space. Use an optional mat to keep the mattress in place.

You dont need to rush out and buy the best floor mattress, its possible that your current mattress could work perfectly on the floor

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What Are The Pros And Cons

The pros and cons of platform beds are varied but the pros far outweigh the cons in the end. Lets find out what they are.

Pros of a platform bed:

• No need for a box spring or foundation
• Can be lower to the ground providing easier access for the injured, elderly, young kids, or anyone with limited mobility
• Enables maximum airflow to the bedding
• Allows you to sleep cooler while preserving the integrity of the bedding
• Works well with all types of mattresses
• Preferred support method for memory foam mattress
• Can be adjusted to provide a firmer or softer surface
• Sleek natural design

Cons of a platform bed:

• Often more expensive than traditional ones
• Not as much bounce as others
• It may be tough to move because it is all in one piece

What Happens If You Use A Bed Base That Is Incompatible With Your Mattress

Pairing your new mattress with the right bed base can extend both its comfortability and lifespan. If you invest in a hybrid, latex foam, or memory foam mattress, which are designed to contour to your body specifically, a mismatched bed base can greatly diminish the value you get from your mattress.

Box springs, for instance, are typically not designed to withstand a mattress as heavy as memory foam, and using them together can cause sagging in the mattress, then back pain for you.

To be completely sure your bed base and mattress are compatible, check with your mattress manufacturer.

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Platform Bed Frame With Slats

Whether or not a platform bed frame with slats requires a box spring depends on the distance between the slats. As long as the slats are close enough together, theyll support the mattress without a box spring foundation and typically satisfy the mattress warranty.

If the slats are more than four inches apart, then you might need a traditional box spring. Your mattress warranty should indicate the appropriate distance of the bed slat gaps. These slats can come flexed or straight, and theyre available in a variety of materials, including but not limited to:

• Wood
• Plastic
• Composite

With that being said, steel slats provide the most rigid support for your mattress, as compared to wooden slats. Wondering how long do memory foam mattresses last? The average lifespan of memory foam mattresses is 10 years, but to stand the test of time, they need to be well supported by a bed frame or sturdy slats.

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.

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Do You Need A Box Spring With A Bed Frame

If youre using a standard metal bed frameor any bed that provides only a rim around the perimeter to hold the mattress, perhaps with a few cross pieces of wood, that wont provide adequate support for your mattress on its own. To ensure your mattress has the necessary support, as well as to raise it higher, you have to use either a box spring or a foundation.

What Can I Use Instead Of A Box Spring

If you are not a fan of traditional bed height and appearance, there are certainly alternatives to a box spring. These include adjustable bases, platforms and even the floor.

Low-profile box spring. Box springs are now available in a low-profile design that functions like a traditional box spring but is about half the height, giving you a much sleeker look. These serve as a happy medium between a very low platform bed and traditional height box springs.

Platform bed. Other than placing your mattress on the floor, a platform bed is the lowest profile option for your mattress. Platform beds typically stand only about 18 high as compared to an average bed height of 25, or antique beds which can sit as high as 36 off the floor.

Bunkie board. This oddly named surface board is a thin sheet of wood that sits between your bed frame and your mattress. It provides the foundation the mattress requires and eliminates the need for a box spring.

Mattress on the floor. You can choose to place your mattress directly on the floor, but there are several things to consider before doing so.

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The Difference Between A Box Spring And Foundation

While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, the primary difference between a boxspring and a foundation is the use of springs. A boxspring actually contains springs, whereas a foundation does not.

The springs in a boxspring can give a mattress a bit more bounce than it has on its own. Moreover, some people feel that they do a better job of accommodating the mattress because they are slightly responsive to pressure because of the springs. A foundation is a solid surface and lacks springs, so it does not contribute to the bounce of a mattress, nor does it do a very good job of responding to pressure from above. If youre purchasing a high-quality mattress like the ones we review on this site, then you wont need to worry about the lack of response from a foundation, as a good mattress will provide enough support to prevent you interacting with the foundation level.

Allergic Reactions To Dust

Before you get carried away with mattress on floor bedroom ideas, you may want to consider the upkeep of sleeping without a bed frame if you suffer allergies. Being close to the floor means youre sleeping where dust accumulates. You can still enjoy putting mattress on floor but youll need to clean regularly to keep the dust at bay.

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