
Sprung bed frame slats
- Two rows of slats lie across the width of the bed
- These are connected by a centre support rail in the middle of the bed
- The slats curve upwards and respond to your mattress and bodyweight for more flexible support
What is a sprung slat bed?
Sprung slats are gently raised or curved planks of wood that extend across your bed frame. They’re placed in two rows that go halfway across the bed, so they only work for beds with a center support beam. They’re typically made from beech wood, which is flexible and has a natural curve to it.
What are the slats on a bed called?
They’re placed in two rows that go halfway across the bed, so they only work for beds with a center support beam. They’re typically made from beech wood, which is flexible and has a natural curve to it. You may also hear sprung slats called raised slats or posture slats, but sprung is the most common term.
Do pocket sprung mattress bases need to be flat?
The thing to remember is that a pocket sprung mattress ideally requires a flat even surface in order for the mechanics of the individual springs to work with the sleeper. Slatted Bed Bases: Are sprung slats better than solid slat bases?
What are the benefits of sprung slatted bases?
The design enables the slats to respond to your body weight and relieve pressure points. As they provide a more cushioned sleeping surface, they're ideal if you don't like a really firm bed. You could pair any of our sprung slatted bases with a softer or medium-feel mattress for more gentle support.

What are sprung slats on a bed?
What are sprung slats? Sprung slats are made from flexible beech wood and are slightly curved. They tend to reduce strain on your mattress, which can improve the overall lifespan of it. The design enables the slats to respond to your body weight and relieve pressure points.
What is the difference between solid slats and sprung slat beds?
Solid slats vs Sprung slats Solid slats are flat and run across the width of the bed, usually made from a sturdy wood such as Pine. Sprung slats are typically made from a flexible plywood like Beech.
What's stronger sprung slats or solid slats?
We have a full article on slats here and the disadvantages of them. Sprung slats have more give and are usually a higher quality and better spaced than rigid wooden slats. Though you're usually better off with a divan. Our mattresses are all suitable for slatted bases.
Are sprung slats better than divan?
Simple; A sprung edged divan base is better for 'any' mattress and contributes greatly to the overall support (and feel) to the mattress. This is the reason why most top end mattresses are partnered with a Sprung base.
Are sprung slats bad for mattress?
Both sprung and solid slats offer good support for the mattress. Sprung slats provide extra cushioning, which can improve the overall comfort and help extend the life of the mattress. They make a bed feel slightly softer and provide a slightly 'springy' feel. In contrast, solid slats will make a bed feel firmer.
Which is better slats or base?
Non-slatted bases are more consistent than slats because they don't move and never break, making them a better choice if you value longevity. However, a solid base can make some mattresses feel firmer than they are.
Can you use a memory foam mattress on sprung slats?
Any material of mattress does fine on a slatted bed, whether you want pocket springs, memory foam, or even latex they'll all sit fine on slats.
How often should you replace bed slats?
7-10 yearsBed frame life expectancy: Wooden bed frames with slats typically last 7-10 years if properly maintained, while metal bed frames last 15 years or more.
Do bed slats break easily?
Breakable: Because they're simply wood planks, bed slats are more fragile than other types of bed foundations. Require assembly: You'll have to put the bed slats on the frame yourself in most cases. The good news is that it is incredibly easy to do and won't be a problem for most people.
What are the best bed bases?
Pocket sprung edge bases are the highest quality bases you can buy in both their construction, components and overall feel. The pocket springs give the same benefits found in high-end mattresses by giving independent support. These pocket springs are then padded and upholstered to create a luxury base.
Does a mattress feel different on slats?
If you place a mattress on a sprung slatted base, it will feel slightly firmer than when placed on your sprung divan base. In addition, if the gaps between the slats exceed 3″ we advise that you board over the base using a thin piece of MDF or Plywood.
How can I make my slatted bed more comfortable?
How to Make Bed Slats Stronger and Keep Them From ShiftingPut a Box Spring or Some Plywood Over the Slats.Secure the Slats to the Bed Frame.Use Slat Spacers.Add More Slats.Reinforce the Supportive Center Beam.Get Thicker or Stronger Wooden Slats.Use Metal Slats Instead.
Can you use a memory foam mattress on sprung slats?
Any material of mattress does fine on a slatted bed, whether you want pocket springs, memory foam, or even latex they'll all sit fine on slats.
What is a solid base bed?
Solid or platform top These have a rigid, non-sprung top panel, often made from hardboard. Beds with these bases are generally firmer, as well as cheaper than beds with sprung bases.
Do slats make bed softer?
Replace your bed frame or slats To make your mattress softer, you could invest in a bed frame with sprung slats. This is because sprung slats provide more cushioned support and move with your mattress throughout the night.
Are curved or flat slats better?
Sprung, or curved, slats are a bit more forgiving than solid slats but we're getting more and more recent feedback that dips are appearing in mattresses that are supported by one of these bases. If you prefer to replace them with solid slats then that should also be fine and this is down to your own preference.
What are bed slats made of?
They consist of a series of connected wooden planks or bars that stretch across the width of the bed in question. They are almost always made of solid, sturdy wood.
Why do we need slats on beds?
The general purpose of bed slats is to support your mattress, much like a box spring. However, they are also designed so that a box spring is not necessary, catering to those who feel that box springs are a waste of money and space. They’re commonly used in situations where a sleeper benefits from a supported mattress but does not want to invest in a bulky box spring.
What is the best wood for bed slats?
Wooden slats can be made out of a variety of woods. This includes cherry, mahogany, and pine. Any wood that is easy to work with and relatively strong will do. Softwoods are not usually used to make slats, as they bend and bow and are not as resistant to pressure or weight.
How big should the gap between slats be?
In general, though, the closer the slats are together the more support you’ll have. Slat spacing should be 2”-4 ½” inches apart, with the sweet spot being 3 inches.
Can you put a mattress on wood slats?
Yes, you can – but should you? This is debatable because it is physically possible to put a mattress onto slats, but it may compromise your bed’s support. Wood slats come in packages and are the most popular type of slats for resting a mattress on. Metal slats aren’t as flexible and are not as easy to arrange for optimal support, so they almost always need something between them and the mattress.
Do slats work properly?
In terms of support, though, there isn’t too much of a difference unless your slats are unevenly or unfavorably spaced, or the material used to make your slats is not strong enough, in which case, the slats will not work properly.
Do bed slats make a difference?
In short, yes. Bed slats do make a difference. The difference when compared to boxsprings specifically comes in when you consider that a slatted base is lighter, easier to maneuver, and cheaper than box springs. In terms of support, though, there isn’t too much of a difference unless your slats are unevenly or unfavorably spaced, or the material used to make your slats is not strong enough, in which case, the slats will not work properly.
What is a sprung slat?
Sprung slats are gently raised or curved planks of wood that extend across your bed frame. They’re placed in two rows that go halfway across the bed, so they only work for beds with a center support beam.
Why are sprung slats shorter?
1. Shorter Individual Slat Lifespan. Your sprung slats connect to a support beam in the middle of the bed, making them shorter and potentially weaker. Plus, as the slats under your body will bend further than the ones elsewhere on the mattress, there’s more strain placed upon those individual slats.
What Are Solid Slats?
Solids slats run the width of your bed without a stopping point in the middle. They’re flat beams of wood, usually, a hard variety, that adds firmness to your bed. Solid slats may also be metal depending on the bed you purchase.
How do slats help a mattress?
As your slats bend under the pressure of whatever is on the mattress, they work to absorb shock and therefore keep your mattress softer. The slats absorbing shock on the mattress also keep day-to-day wear and tear at bay.
Why are slats so easy to replace?
Another advantage is their longevity. As the slats are entirely flat, the weight of the mattresses is evenly distributed, so you’ll avoid weak spots unless a specific slat is faulty.
How does a mattress slat work?
During the day, the slats protrude upwards into the mattress and hold its inner components in place, preventing sagging.
How long does it take for a sprung mattress to change slats?
Sprung slats may add a few more months, perhaps a year or two if you’re lucky, to your mattress’s life but in the end, it might not be a drastic enough difference to change slat types.
Which is better, a sprung or a slatted bed frame?
If you prefer a firmer bed, our solid slatted bed frames are the ideal choice. If you're looking for more gentle support, a sprung slatted bed frame could be a better option. If you require any help choosing your slatted bed frame, please give us a call and we'll be happy to help!
What is a slat bed?
Slats are a type of base made for a bed. They are a series of connected bars that lie across the width of the frame. Made from strong wood such as pine or beech, these bars work together with your mattress to provide support. You can choose from two types of slats - solid slats or sprung slats. There are two main differences between solid ...
How do I assemble a bed frame with slats?
Slatted bed frames come flat-packed, so you will need to assemble it. However, all our bed frames come complete with assembly instructions. Simply follow the step-by-step guide to build your bed.
What are solid slats?
Solid slats are made from sturdy solid wood such as pine. They create a supportive base for your mattress and are ideal if you prefer a firmer bed. For an even firmer overall feel, solid slats can be paired with a firm mattress.
How big should a slat gap be?
Whilst the gap between slats can vary slightly from bed to bed, we advise that it shouldn't exceed 7cm (approximately 2.8 inches). A gap wider than this will cause greater wear and tear to your mattress. Some brands, such as Dunlopillo, require that your bed frame slat gaps should not exceed 6cm (2.4 inches).
What are the different types of slats?
You can choose from two types of slats - solid slats or sprung slats. There are two main differences between solid and sprung slats, in terms of how the slats fit and how much support they offer. Solid slats. Often made from pine wood. Each slat runs across the width of the bed frame. This creates a firmer, more supportive bed.
Why are slats important?
The design enables the slats to respond to your body weight and relieve pressure points. As they provide a more cushioned sleeping surface, they're ideal if you don't like a really firm bed.
How to prevent slatted bases from damaging a mattress?
Only to either find the mattress has sagged through the gaps or the slats have failed meaning their mattress falls through the base. Leading to damage to the mattress. There are a few key tweaks you can make to ensure that this doesn’t happen to you.
What is underside wadding on a mattress?
The underside wadding of the mattress ( one sided no turn) has such an inadequate level of support upholstery that the springs are practically forming on to the slats.
What is the best type of mattress base?
So what if you’re not on a budget and want the very best mattress base possible? Then it’s time to look at the 4 types of mattress bases in order of quality. From the best to the weakest we list them below.
What depth of plywood or MDF should I use to board over my slatted base?
When boarding over a slatted base we recommend using between 3mm and 6mm of either plywood, pegboard or MDF. It doesn’t need to be in a one-piece, it can be cut into 4 pieces and then laid on top. It’s just to bridge the gaps between the slats. We also recommend adding a duvet as well n top of the wood just to stop it from nipping or nicking the mattress.
What is a Bedframe or Bedstead?
This a term thrown about that, in reality, is quite meaningless and, in my opinion, can be quite a cause for unnecessary concern. If we look at Vi-Spring as an example, they offer two types of mattresses in their range under the heading ‘Bed Collection’ and ‘Bedstead Mattresses’.
Why does my mattress have a dip?
This can easily be attributed to the use of a slatted bed frame where the pressure of the slats (the arches) are too firm to ‘give’ under the weight of mattress and user and, therefore, the mattress is prone to settling on the central support bar.
Do you need a duvet for a slatted mattress?
If the slats are too far apart consider boarding them over to help support the mattress. Also adding a duvet will help prevent slats from snagging on your mattress.
What do slatted bases cover?
They cover everything from wooden, metal, ornate bed frames, sleigh beds, roll top bases, antique brass frames etc. They do however all share one defining feature. They are all frames that the mattress sits on and nearly all use slatted bases.
What is sprung edge?
Sprung edge bases use a frame within the base which springs are then placed into it’s accepted as the best quality of divan base. These springs can either be a bonnell coil, ie continuous spring or a set of pocket springs. The pocket springs are more responsive but are at a higher price point. Whilst we never advocate the use of cage sprung or open coil springs, the exception to this is a sprung base. This is because the base has a solid frame which prevents the bonnell coil or open coil from moving around as much as it does in a mattress.
What Type of Mattress will you use on the Bed Base?
Nearly all mattresses are suitable for all bases but will have vastly different feels, especially if you pair up the wrong style of the base for the feel you want. There are two broad categories of mattresses for bed bases. These are traditional pocket sprung mattresses and then Memory Foam, Latex or Hybrid foam mattresses.
What is the difference between a sprung edge and a platform top base?
A sprung edge divan, as the name suggests, features a spring unit housed within the base which is then upholstered. It’s almost like a mattress for your mattress and helps even out the strain put on mattresses over time. A platform top divan is a solid top, still upholstered, which doesn’t contain springs or any moving parts .
What is the cheapest base for a mattress?
Any other mid-range or cheap mattress will no doubt come with the cheapest of bases, being a slatted base , be it wooden, metal or plastic. These bases are lightweight and cheap but offer minimal support for all but the cheapest of mattresses. The gaps in the slats can cause the mattress to 'sag' between them causing lumps and bumps. We always recommend that you board over these slat ted bases with some cheap plywood or pegboard to give a more consistent base surface. If not the mattress can end up with lumps and bumps as it falls through the slats
What is the best bed frame?
The best type of bed frame is one that uses a fully upholstered base pad in place of the slats. These do cost more but are a far better investment. An upholstered bed frame and base pad will provide years more support to your mattress and prevent the slats from damaging the mattress or causing an uncomfortable nights sleep.
What is a bedstead base?
Bedstead/Bed frame mattress bases cover a wide variety of bed base styles. They can offer a far greater array of designs and styles when compared to divan bases. They are perfect for interior design enthusiasts and people preferring style over bedroom storage.
What Mattress is Best to use with a Slatted Bed Base?
Memory foam mattresses are quickest to wear out on a slatted bed base. Traditional pocket sprung mattresses boast a longer life span. But there are many other areas to consider alongside the slats and mattress, such as the bed style, the material used to make it and how it is constructed.
How do sprung slats work?
Sprung slats mimic the mechanism of springs, and are fixed to the bed in such a way that they bend and arch upwards. They give the bed a ‘springy’ or bouncy feel, and act as a shock absorber for the mattress. When you sit or lie on the bed the slats bend down under the weight, therefore shielding the mattress from wear and tear.
What Slats do Revival Beds Use?
Every Revival Bed comes with 18 solid pine slats that are cloth-webbed 50mm from each end to hold them together securely. Each slat measures 70x17mm and these are positioned 40-45mm apart for optimum mattress support. Pre-drilled screw holes in the middle and ends of each slat then enable a secure fit to the bearers on each bed and the centre bar when required - this eliminates any noise from movement.
Why are slats flat?
Longevity - As the slats are flat and fixed to the bed frame, pressure is spread evenly across all slats, improving the life span. Should one slat break, they are very easy to replace, though this is not likely to happen unless there is a weakness or fault in the wood used for that slat.
Is There any Harm in how far Slats are Spread Apart?
Yes! If the slats are placed too close together, this will give the bed a very firm feel, potentially too firm. The smaller the gaps between the slats, the less air can circulate. On the other hand if the slats are placed too far apart, then the bed will have a bumpy feel and the large gaps will cause the mattress to wear unevenly.
