
If you’re on the fence about whether or not to buy a bunkie board, here are a few reasons why you should:
- A bunkie board can prolong the life of your mattress by providing even support. ...
- If you have a heavy mattress or if you tend to roll towards the middle of the bed while sleeping, using a bunkie board may be a good idea
- A bunkie board is an affordable way to add extra support to your platform bed frame or box-spring. ...
Do I need A bunkie board for my bed frame?
Some platform beds or bed frames have a slatted surface. That can be enough support for some mattresses but won't be appropriate for others. A bunkie board can be put between your mattress and the slatted base it sits on to provide additional support.
Are slatted bunkie boards good for your mattress?
Slats are thin and light, and they promote proper support and breathability for your mattress. As mentioned when discussing slatted bunkie boards, the gap between the slats should be less than three inches. Otherwise, the slats can dig into the mattress and damage it.
Can you use plywood instead of A bunkie board?
Plywood is a thin, light, and rigid material. However, it will need to be treated and laminated; otherwise, it will chip and snag on your mattress. The plywood needs to be at least one inch thick to provide minimal support for your mattress. For more information, refer to this article: Can You Use Plywood Instead Of A Bunkie Board?

Are bunkie boards necessary for platform bed?
If you plan to place your mattress on a bed frame that already has a solid foundation (no slats), a bunkie board is not necessary. However, if you prefer your bed to have extra height, a bunkie board is a great way to add lift to your mattress without compromising its structure.
What can I use instead of a bunkie board?
Standard bunkie board alternatives include slats, plywood, standard box springs, low profile box springs, and split bunkie boards. Depending on the type of bed and mattress you have, one of these bunkie board alternatives may be a better choice for you than a standard bunkie board.
What do you put under a platform bed to hold it up?
Try a mattress topper. Place it directly on the frame and under your mattress, but make sure to choose a very firm one. Otherwise, the feel of your mattress may be significantly altered. Also, note that a mattress topper will change the height of your bed, so if you don't need that, choose thinner models.
Can you put a mattress directly on a platform frame?
A platform bed is a bed frame topped with either slats or a solid surface. Relatively low profile, platform beds are usually between five and 12 inches high. They can support your mattress independent of another bed base, so you can place your mattress directly on top of the platform.
Can you put mattress directly on slats?
Most mattress types can rest directly on the slats. Durable: Most modern box springs are made of a wooden frame wrapped in fabric—they offer height but very little support. Slats are much more supportive and will ensure your mattress doesn't sink or slide.
Can I use plywood instead of bunkie board?
You can use plywood instead of a bunkie board however plywood is less durable than a bunkie board and less aesthetically pleasing. A DIY bunkie board is a better alternative than using plywood alone.
How much weight can a platform bed take?
How much weight can a platform bed hold? Most platform beds can hold about 500 pounds of evenly distributed weight. Queen and king size mattresses may boast a weight limit of 1000 pounds because each side is expected to hold up to 500.
How do I stop my platform bed frame from sliding?
5 Ways To Stop Your Bed From SlidingPlace a Rug Between the Bed and the Floor. ... Wrap the Bottoms of the Frame with Rubber. ... Apply Rubber Feet to the Feet of the Bed. ... Permanently Attach the Bed Frame to the Wall. ... Apply Velcro Pads to Bed Feet.
How thick should a mattress be for a platform bed?
12 inches thickThickness & Support The best mattresses for platform beds should be at least 12 inches thick, but up to 14 inches is even better. The thickness of a mattress often depends on the number of different layers, but for less expensive mattresses, it could simply just be the cut of the material.
What kind of mattress is good for a platform bed?
Generally, memory foam, latex, or hybrid mattresses are the best type to use for platform beds. Platform beds usually feature a rigid, hard surface. A memory foam, latex, or hybrid mattress should offer enough comfort and support to ensure a person does not feel this hard surface underneath.
What do I need for a platform bed?
Platform beds support all mattress types such as foam, latex, and memory foam mattresses. Though innerspring mattresses may be supported by platform beds, they are better paired with box springs. Still, with a little bit of research, it's easy to find some of the best mattresses for a platform bed.
Do you need a special mattress for a platform bed?
Can you use a regular mattress on a platform bed? Yes, you can use just about any mattress on a platform bed as long as the slats are close enough together to provide proper support. However, you should check your warranty to make sure it doesn't require a box spring.
Can I make my own bunkie board?
Bunkie boards are typically used in bunk beds but can be used in other forms of bed frames, such as platform beds. Making your own can be very easy and save money, compared with buying one from an expensive furniture store. Another advantage is that you can customize your bunkie board to your preferences and tastes.
What can I use instead of slats?
Bunkie boards can also replace slats if you need a flat, solid surface for your mattress (for example, if you have a memory foam mattress), or if you don't live in a very humid area where your mattress would need lots of ventilation.
Should I put plywood under my mattress?
Plywood can help with a sagging mattress. If the issue is lack of support, use plywood to give the mattress a firmer base. Lay a sheet of plywood down on the slats of your bed frame, and place the mattress on top of it. It will support the mattress from beneath, stopping it from sagging.
Can I put just a mattress on a bed frame?
No, you cannot place a mattress directly on a bed frame because bed frames are mostly decorative. While they may have one or two slats, the slats are there to support a foundation, not your mattress. Placing your mattress straight onto a bed frame causes your mattress to sag and voids your mattress's warranty.
Why do you need a bunkie board?
A bunkie board is necessary as a mattress base because you need to provide enough ventilation to a mattress and you need to support the shape of your mattress. The most notable features of bunkie boards are how thin and cheap they are.
What Is a Bunkie Board Used for?
They are ideal for use with memory foam and latex mattresses.
What is the difference between a box spring and a bunkie board?
The difference between bunkie boards and box-springs is that the bunkie board is thinner. Box-springs are much larger and heavier. Bunkie boards take up much less space and are much lighter. Finally, bunkie boards are cheaper than box-springs.
How to tell what a second hand bunkie board is made of?
You can tell what a second-hand Bunkie board is made of by removing the cloth covering and checking whether or not it has a veneer covering particle board or plywood, or if it’s made of solid wood. For a detailed guide about ' what is a bunkie board made of ', read this article. A simple, cloth covered bunkie board. Image from Amazon.
What are the components of a bed?
All beds have three essential components: a bed frame, a mattress, and a mattress support system. The mattress support system prevents the mattress from falling through the frame. There are commonly three types of support systems: box-spring mattresses, slats, and bunkie boards. So, if you're wondering 'What is a bunkie board?', the answer is ...
What are the advantages of box springs over bunkie boards?
However, there are some advantages that box-springs have over bunkie boards. For instance, they are more durable. Also, they are much less likely to move around in response to active bed occupants, or earthquakes.
Can you put a foam mattress on top of a bunkie board?
You may use plywood instead of a bunkie board. It is cheaper. But the lack of airflow will mean that you will not be able to put a foam mattress on top without having issues with mold, and other moisture accumulation related problems.
Why do you put a bunkie board on your mattress?
You use a bunkie board by placing it between your bed frame and your mattress to give the mattress an extra layer of support and make it more comfortable. People sometimes purchase an inexpensive bunkie board when their bed starts to sag to stave off purchasing an entirely new set.
How much does a bunkie board cost?
You can order on line and have them shipped to your home. The average cost for a twin size is around $50. For queen and king sizes you can spend from under $100, to close to $200 at some higher end stores.
What is the difference between a bunkie board and a slat?
Bunkie Board vs. Slats. Most mattresses can be supported by slatted foundations, although some, like all foam mattresses, may not be fully supported by a slatted base. A bunkie board provides a sturdier foundation to support your mattress, better sleep, and the lifespan of your mattress.
What is a bunk bed board?
Bunkie Boards are flexible, user friendly tools. They can be easily stored, shipped, or transported and come in folding models. Bunkie boards are not just for bunk beds and come in all bed sizes. They are generally 2 inches or less in height and add very little to the overall elevation of the sleeping platform. They are lightweight and easy to move or store as needed.
How to attach fabric to plywood?
Adhere the fabric to the board: Use upholstery spray adhesive to adhere one sheet of fabric to one side and the other on the opposite side of your plywood board.
How thick is a bed base?
Get a sheet of plywood: Thin plywood (about 3/4 inches thick) is best. Measure your bed base: Remove your mattress from its current foundation and measure the inside length and width with a tape measure. You will want to subtract 1-2 inches for each measurement so the plywood fits correctly instead of being flush.
How to smooth out edges of a board?
Sand the edges: Smooth out the edges of your board with sandpaper or a sander.
How to choose a bunkie board for a foam mattress?
In order to choose a bunkie board for a foam mattress, you must decide where you want to use it, the size of the bunkie board you will use, the material of the bunkie board, and whether you want your bunkie board to have a noise-reduction feature.
Why do you need a bunkie board on a latex mattress?
Because of this, it’s best to choose a slatted bunkie board in order to support your latex mattress without sacrificing ventilation.
How far apart should slats be for a latex mattress?
However, the slats have to be wide, thick and spaced less than three inches apart to provide even weight distribution. Hardwood and metal rods support heavy weights better than plywood, so look for those materials when selecting a bunkie board for a latex foam mattress. Latex foam mattresses also react to movement.
What is a bunkie board?
A bunkie board will help prolong the life of your latex foam mattress. Latex foam mattresses are dense in order to help absorb shock. Bunkie boards, whether made of a whole plank or of slats, are sturdy enough to support and bear the extra weight of latex foam mattresses. However, the slats have to be wide, thick and spaced less than three inches ...
What is the best foundation for memory foam?
A bunkie board is the best foundation type for memory foam mattresses because they provide a high level of support for the foam core. However, a flat bunkie board will reduce the mattress’s breathability, which may lead to moisture and mildew buildup within the mattress.
How thick is plywood for a mattress?
However, it will need to be treated and laminated; otherwise, it will chip and snag on your mattress. The plywood needs to be at least one inch thick to provide minimal support for your mattress. For more information, refer to this article: Can You Use Plywood Instead Of A Bunkie Board?
Why is it important to have the right support for a mattress?
Providing the right support for your mattress is fundamental in order to keep your mattress in good condition and to help you stay well rested. You have many options when it comes to selecting a base or a foundation type for your mattress. It all depends on your mattress type, your bedroom style, and your budget.
What is bunkie board?
Bunkie boards are normally cloth-covered plywood boards. The foundation is intended to go unnoticed, so the upholstery is typically flat with muted colors. With a slim, simple appearance, bunkie boards can add support to your bed without the extra height or visibility.
How many inches should a bunkie board be?
Bunkie boards are normally recommended for foam mattresses and only add around two to three inches to your bed, reducing the total height of a sleep set.
What is a mattress firm sleep expert?
The Mattress Firm Sleep Experts™ are a team of passionate content creators bringing you the latest in sleep tips, tricks, and trends. No question is too tired for the Sleep Experts™ at Mattress Firm, who live and breathe mattresses, sleep, and everything in between.
Is a bunkie board right for my mattress?
There are several things to consider when figuring out a foundation for your mattress. For one thing, if you’re sleeping on an adjustable bed, you would not want a bunkie board or a box spring , as their rigidity would prevent the base’s ability to chage positions. If profile height and accessability are not a factor, box springs remain a popular choice for many sleepers.
How thick are Bunkie boards?
Bunkie Boards come in one solid piece except for King and Cal King sizes which come as a two-piece set and are approximately 2" thick.
How far apart should slats be on a platform bed?
We recommend that the slats are fixed and measure 2” or less apart. If your platform bed doesn’t meet those standards, we recommend purchasing a 2” bunkie board that will provide uniform support for your mattress.
Where is Ortho Mattress made?
Our mattresses and boxes are designed and built in our local, La Mirada factory.
How many nights can you sleep on a mattress?
Sleep up to 100, but no less than 30 nights. If you feel the bed does not fit your comfort needs, you may select a mattress of equal or greater value with zero fees. You simply pay for the redelivery of the new mattress. Full Details.
Can you use a box spring on a platform bed?
If you are using a bed frame, we recommend you purchase a compatible box spring or foundation. If you have a platform bed, the wooden slats on the platform can often be used in lieu of a box spring or foundation. We recommend that the slats are fixed and measure 2” or less apart. If your platform bed doesn’t meet those standards, we recommend purchasing a 2” bunkie board that will provide uniform support for your mattress.
Can you use a wooden bunkie board on a daybed?
Our wooden Bunkie Board works well on bunk beds, daybeds and platform style bed frames. We especially recommend a bunkie board if the slats on your bed frame do not provide adequate support for the mattress. Fixed slats greater than 2” apart can harm the integrity and the warranty of the mattress.
