Traditionally, a box spring had three important jobs to do: Raise the height of the bed to make it easier to get in and out of Absorb shock and reduce wear to the mattress Create a flat and firm structure for the mattress to lie on Remember, box springs have been around for years and years.
Full Answer
Do you really need a box spring?
Therefore, if any of the previously named benefits of the box spring seem essential to you, then the answer to the question - “do you need a box spring?” is definitely YES . Types of Box Springs Previously, mattress manufacturers used to design only one-size box springs that stood at about 8 inches tall.
What is a box spring and do you need one?
The term “ box spring ” doesn’t say a lot about its initial meaning. Basically, a box spring is a foundation that lifts your mattress up. It usually has a wooden frame and springs or metal rods that aimed to support and lift your bed. Box springs are recommended for everyone who wants to decrease exposure to mite allergens. [1]
Do box springs need to be replaced with mattresses?
It's not always necessary to replace your box spring every time you replace your mattress, but it's probably a good idea to do so. Box springs usually last around 10 years, which is a slightly longer lifespan than a mattress. Worn-out box springs can cause your new mattress to sag sooner and create discomfort. Click to see full answer.
Do box springs still have springs in them?
You can get modern box springs that don’t actually contain springs (they are more like a platform – here’s an article about a robust and sturdy one if you still want a box spring) but there are loads of other ways you can keep your mattress off the floor without using a box spring.
Do box springs really make a difference?
Boxsprings serve two basic, but important functions. Foundation – They provide a strong and stable foundation for your mattress. This helps increase the longevity of your mattress by reducing shock, wear, and tear. Increased Height – They elevate the mattress off the floor.
Does it matter what kind of box spring you use?
Your mattress type will determine if you need a box spring. Box springs were made specifically for mattresses with coils. So if you have an innerspring mattress, a box spring is an ideal choice. However, if you have a memory foam or latex mattress, you should not use a coil box spring.
What happens if you don't use a box spring?
While even the best mattress models made today benefit from a supportive foundation, certain types don't require a box spring – and for some, using a box spring can cause permanent structural damage. If you're looking for other options to use instead of box springs, consider platform beds and wood slat foundations.
Is it necessary to use a box spring?
For many mattresses today, it's not necessary to use a box spring for support. Some mattresses, like memory foam and latex, could be best suited to a platform bed that uses wood slats to create a stable, flat surface.
Why do beds not have box springs anymore?
"It's the box spring—a lot of beds don't have them anymore, and most bed frames these days don't need them" because they have platforms or slats to support a mattress, Ms. Baker said, adding that the most comfortable height for a bed is from 24 to 26 inches.
Is it OK to use an old box spring with a new mattress?
If you put a new mattress on top of an old box spring with existing body impressions, the mattress will begin to fill in the existing gully and develop body impressions prematurely. The industry has moved away from coiled box springs to immovable grids, called foundations.
What is an alternative to a box spring?
Instead of a box spring you can support your mattress with a platform, a foundation, a plywood support, or a coconut coir rug.
Can you skip a box spring?
It is simple, you can sleep on a mattress without a box spring comfortably and there are a few different ways to do it. These days a boxspring is nothing more than a rigid elevated riser referred to commonly as a foundation.
Is box spring necessary with bed frame?
A box spring, specifically, is not always necessary. The important thing to keep in mind is that box springs do require the support of a separate bed frame (in most cases). If you have or prefer a basic metal bed frame with just one or two center support bars, you likely need a box spring to complete the set.
What type of mattress does not need a boxspring?
What is a Platform Bed? Platform beds don't look much different from a traditional bed. However, you don't have to use a box spring as you might with other beds. Instead, metal or wood slats form the base that holds the mattress.
Which box spring is better metal or wood?
Metal box springs tend to last longer, but wood is lighter weight and easier to move. It also depends on the available budget. Wood box springs come in a range of prices, but they tend to be more expensive than metal models. Metal box springs, while often cheaper, don't work with all mattresses.
Does the box spring have to be the same brand as the mattress?
The simple answer is NO, you don't. However, there are some things to look at to ensure that you don't cause premature wearing to your new purchase. The large retailers and manufacturers may void your warranty, but if you find the right company it shouldn't void any warranty.
Can you mix and match box springs?
Can You Mix And Match Mattresses And Box Springs? The short answer is yes. However, mixing an old box spring with a new mattress will ultimately leave you with less support and a higher risk of the box spring deteriorating faster.
Does the thickness of a box spring matter?
There is no difference in support between the high profile box spring, and the low profile, just the difference in height. Newer mattresses tend to have a thicker profile so that they can offer new levels of additional comfort and support. Which is great for your nights sleep, but it also increases your bed height.
What is the purpose of a box spring?
There are three main reasons why you should use a box spring. First of all, it raises your mattress , making it easier for you to get out of bed....
When should you should get a new box spring?
It's completely unnecessary to get a new box spring every time you're replacing a mattress . You should change your box spring when noticeable d...
What is a memory foam mattress?
Memory foam mattresses are created mostly from polyurethane and have additional chemicals added that increase its viscosity and density. It’s also...
Do top rated mattresses offer a money-back guarantee? Is there a catch?
All of the top mattress brands offer a money-back guarantee. The free trial usually starts from 90 to 100 nights, and if you don’t like the mattr...
What is off-gassing? Is it poisonous?
Off-gassing refers to the odor which comes from a new mattress. It’s the process that happens when volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) leak out of th...
How long do top rated mattresses serve?
The durability of a mattress depends on the provider and the quality of the materials used. Usually, you get a 10-year warranty, which will be va...
How far apart should box springs be on a mattress?
On the other hand, there are some exceptions. Modern mattress brand Saatva suggests that box springs may be used with its mattresses if the box spring is less than 7 years old and has proper center support and the slats are less than 4 inches apart. Helix also approves box springs with its mattresses, but only if slats are less than 5 inches apart and a piece of plywood or other proper center support is added.
Why do people sleep on the floor?
Some swear sleeping on the floor helps alleviate back pain better than any other remedies they've tried -- so why not try a mattress directly on the floor? After all, many of today's mattresses are firm and dense enough to place on the floor without the need for any additional support from a platform or foundation at all. This idea also works with minimalist decor and a simple budget.
What is a box spring?
Designed to support a mattress, a box spring consists of a wood frame filled with either springs or a metal grid. The box spring is encased in fabric and placed beneath the mattress on a bed frame. Some also have supportive slats on the bottom. They're made to match the sizes of most traditional mattresses, from twin to king.
Why lift a mattress higher?
Lifting the mattress higher so sleepers can more easily get in and out of bed
What to do if you have trouble getting into or out of bed?
If you have trouble getting into or out of bed, and raising the mattress height helps.
Do new mattresses need box springs?
While many new mattresses do not require or work well with box springs, some still do. Other brands recommend them, but only if a metal frame is used. Still more suggest the use of a different type of bed frame or foundation altogether with their mattresses. We'll go over who does and doesn't need a box spring, and how to make sure you're not using the wrong base for your mattress.
Can you use adjustable bed frames?
These mattresses can be highly customizable, and some even come with remote controls to customize each side of the bed. They can only be used with mattresses made specifically for adjustable beds, or those that are flexible enough to work with them. Expect these to be pricier than most other options.
What is a Box Spring?
The term “ box spring ” doesn’t say a lot about its initial meaning. Basically, a box spring is a foundation that lifts your mattress up. It usually has a wooden frame and springs or metal rods that aimed to support and lift your bed. Box springs are recommended for everyone who wants to decrease exposure to mite allergens. [1]
What is off gassing a mattress?
Off-gassing refers to the odor which comes from a new mattress. It’s the process that happens when volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) leak out of the mattress foam into the air. Those chemicals include both human-made and natural components, including formaldehyde, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), benzene, trichloroethane, and perfluorocarbons. Top rated mattresses will have zero or very minimal off-gassing. Many of them are sent to the customer already after the off-gassing. Is it dangerous, though? Even though the smell can be unpleasant, there’s usually only a very small amount of chemicals that can do no harm to your health.
Why do mattresses need box springs?
That's why it's not the most comfortable alternative. Therefore, one of the main purposes of the box spring is to lift your mattress from the ground.
What is a bunkee board?
Bunkie boards are simple thin wooden pallets that are created to provide your mattress with extra support.
How long is a free trial of a mattress?
All of the top mattress brands offer a money-back guarantee. The free trial usually starts from 90 to 100 nights , and if you don’t like the mattress, you can simply give it back. The majority of best mattress providers will not only give your money back but will also come to get it for free.
How tall are box springs?
Traditional Box Springs. Traditional box springs usually are about 8 inches tall, depending on the manufacturer. They’re great when you buy a slim mattress and want to add additional height to your bed set. It allows you not to worry about the mattress elevation and apply the box spring of your preference.
What is a low profile box spring?
Low-profile box springs are thinner and lighter than the traditional box springs. They’re perfect if you already have a tall mattress and don’t want to add additional height to it.
What is a Box Spring?
Essentially, a box spring is a supportive square that lifts up your mattress (mattress foundation). What’s interesting about the name of this piece is that often these product’s manufacturers have recently gone away from putting actual springs within their products.
What is an adjustable base?
An adjustable base is just what it sounds like. It is a base that you can place your bed on. The base can be remotely controlled to flex, bend and lift up your mattress.
Why is it important to have a high bed?
Having a high bed helps to prevent small pets from jumping up as well as preventing small insects from making their way up your bed and into the covers with you.
Do you need a box spring for memory foam mattresses?
Surprisingly, many modern day mattresses that aren’t sold by memory foam companies still require that you use a box spring if you would like for your warranty to remain valid.
Do mattresses last for years?
Mattresses advertise that they offer certain benefits that are expected to last for many years. The longevity of a bed’s softness, supportiveness, and any other advertised benefits are all dependent on the bed being used in the best of environments.
Is it good to use a box spring?
Benefits to Using a Box Spring. We’ve addressed whether or not a box spring is an essential piece needing for your mattress . Now, it’s a good idea to discuss just how you can benefit from its use, aside from the fact that it helps to maintain your warranty and the longevity of your mattress.
Can a mattress absorb shock?
When your mattress is laying on the ground, there is nothing to help it absorb shock. If you decide to jump on it or if you are a sleeper that tosses and turns, without utilizing a box spring, your mattress is going to succumb to repeated use over time much faster than it would with a box spring.
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.
Why do we need box springs?
There have been massive leaps in mattress construction and comfort since then, and the only reason out of the three traditional roles for a box spring is that it can provide a flat and firm structure for a mattress to lie on.
What is adjustable base?
An adjustable base is a base where you can change the angle of either the top or bottom of the bed to create a custom sleep position other than just lying flat. Many companies make adjustable bases and every single mattress I’ve reviewed online is suitable for use with an adjustable base.
What is a platform bed?
A platform bed is a frame of variable height, with or without a headboard, that has slats running across the body of it. It can be made from wood or steel.
Why is there no air circulation under my mattress?
This is particularly a problem for foam mattresses because air can’t 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.
Why is there mold on the bottom of my mattress?
This is particularly a problem for foam mattresses because air can’t move through the foam support core and mold can grow on the bottom if there is no air circulation underneath it.
What is a box spring made of?
It can be made from wood or steel. They come in loads of different styles, meaning you’ll be able to find one to match whatever look you’re aiming for. Even better, you can choose one that will allow you to store stuff under your bed, which you can’t do with a box spring.
What Does a Box Spring Do?
Made in all the most common mattress sizes from twin to king, the primary function of a box spring is to provide support for a mattress. Some bed frames, like a metal rail bed frame, require using a box spring to keep the mattress from sagging between rails. A box spring also helps with air circulation.
Do You Need a Box Spring with a Platform Bed?
If you have a platform bed, it’s unlikely that you need to use a box spring. A platform bed is designed to support the mattress with wood slats that are spaced close enough together that no mattress sagging can occur. It’s not only a support system but also a frame itself. Platform beds tend to be a good option for those sleeping on a memory foam, latex, or any other all-foam mattress.
Do You Need a Foundation or a Box Spring?
The best way to decide if you need a foundation or a box spring is to check with your mattress manufacturer. Oftentimes this information is listed on the product’s webpage, in the FAQ section, or explained in the warranty. Many mattress brands also have a chat window on the web page for quickly talking with a customer service representative who can help you find the best support for your mattress.
What is a boxspring?
A boxspring is a support for your mattress and is typically constructed from a wooden frame, covered in cloth with springs in the middle. It is usually built the same size as the mattress it will support and that’s why you often are able to buy a mattress and box spring as a set when you buy a new mattress.
Why should I even use a box spring?
You could be saying, “Hey, you just told you ‘box spring’ is outdated. Why am I worrying about it?’
Why do you raise a mattress higher off the ground?
To raise the mattress higher off the ground so you’re not stuck in your bed like a turtle on its back.
Why do mattresses deteriorate?
Why? Because bases that do not support your mattress will cause it to deteriorate prematurely. And that would be your fault. And the fact that you caused the wear and tear beyond normal use, you yourself will have voided your own warranty.
What is a Forever Foundation mattress?
A company called Forever Foundation has a really sturdy metal one on Amazon as well that I like. If you want to really go all-out, you can get an adjustable power base for your mattress. This is a base with a motor in it that can have such features as raising up the head, raising the legs, or even a massage feature.
Do boxsprings break down?
If you’re used to a boxspring, you’re used to that level of support underneath your mattress. Without it, your sleep quality may suffer. The boxspring may feel like an old friend and ease of use for you, the sleeper, may be the most important thing for you to consider. If you’re sleeping on an innerspring mattress, this is the choice. But boxsprings are also bulky and heavy. Wooden ones will break down slowly and compromise its ability to support a mattress, robbing you of use.
Can you void a mattress warranty?
The point about voiding your warranty is no small consideration. Many newly designed options, especially among the memory foam and latex varieties, require you to use something beneath the actual mattress and even list the types of bases and frames that comply with or void the warranty.
Should I Get A New Box Spring Or Something Else?
So. You’ve inspected your box spring and realized you need to buy a new base for your mattress. Should you buy a box spring, or should you buy a different type of platform?
What is a box spring?
A box spring is a type of mattress support that has been around for a long time. It is usually constructed from a sturdy wooden frame with coils on the inside and cloth on the outside. Your mattress sits on top of the box spring. They traditionally have three functions:
Why do coils sag?
This is because the constant pressure of use over time starts to weaken the coils, which reduces their ability to carry out their function as a shock absorber and support platform for your mattress.
What are the functions of a mattress support platform?
They traditionally have three functions: raise the mattress height and keep it off the floor. absorb shock and reduce wear to the mattress. provide a support platform for the mattress.
How long do box springs last?
A low quality box spring may last a few years, while a good quality one can last more than 20. Most will last around 8-10 years. Box springs therefore have a lifespan, they are not something that lasts forever and ever while you just change out the mattress that goes on top of it.
What does a wood foundation look like?
Wood foundation: these tend to look like box springs, but are just wood inside with no springs. They are often sold as bases with mattresses in stores. I’ve reviewed a really solid and beautiful wooden bed frame here.
What does a metal platform bed look like?
Metal platform: this will look like a metal grid on legs. It will probably have a reinforcing line down the middle. When looking at a platform, make sure any spaces within it are no more than three inches wide. Anything wider than three inches won’t support your mattress properly and could contribute to sagging. If you’re looking for a metal platform bed I’ve taken a look at some of the popular Zinus models in this article.
Do I Need a Box Spring?
Despite all these benefits, though, box springs aren’t really a necessity for most modern mattresses.
What is a box spring?
The typical box spring is pretty much just a big, wooden frame your mattress sits on top of.
How long do box springs last?
Most box springs typically last between eight and ten years —just a little longer than most mattresses.
What is a platform bed made of?
The most supportive and durable platform beds are usually made out of wood, although there are some inexpensive compressed cardboard or particle board options available.
Do mattress companies include box springs?
A lot of mattress companies will include box springs in with your purchase , often at a very reasonable price.
Do latex mattresses have box springs?
If you have a latex mattress, on the other hand, you might actually want to avoid box springs , since these products are designed to function on their own, and box springs may sag beneath them.
When to replace box spring?
In general, you’ll probably just want to replace your box spring whenever your replace your mattress.
Why is it important to have a mattress box?
Having the box/foundation that your mattress comes with is decently important (unless you have a platform bed) because it will make sure that your mattress is receiving the right amount of support to make sure it lasts as long as possible. It will also make sure that your warranty stays valid.
Why is a mattress called a box spring?
It was still called a box spring because it had box-shaped springs vs. a coil, and it still had springs within a box configuration.
What would happen if you didn't have a box spring?
If you did not have it, the mattress would sag down into the middle of the frame, and you would be on the floor, in a very uncomfortable position. Realistically, you could use just about anything for a box spring; we used pieces of plywood for years. 2. level 1.
Why do people put a board between their mattress and box?
Often times back in the fifties/sixties doctors would recommend that people put a board between their mattress and box because it would "firm up" their mattress. (Please note that a firm mattress is not necessarily better for you, but at the time this was believed to be true.
What is the purpose of a foundation?
The purpose of the foundation is mostly for height, since almost all the alternatives also provide proper support to your mattress. If you were to, for example, put a mattress directly on a metal frame, it would not be well supported and would break pretty quickly.
Do boxsprings have springs?
Boxsprings these days don't use any actual springs anymore. They just provide a solid foundation to support the mattress. A mattress would be properly supported by the floor (but that's kinda trashy-looking).
Do box springs change the feel of a mattress?
Nowadays, almost all beds use what is technically called a foundation, although pretty much everyone still calls them box springs. This will not change the feel of your mattress as long as you're using a one-sided mattress. If you put a two-sided mattress on one of these semi-flexible or completely rigid foundations, it will be slightly firmer than if you had put it on the box spring it was designed for.
