For the best sleep, you need a good mattress with the right foundation. Often, the decision boils down to comparing between bed slats and box springs.
A mattress alone isn’t the only factor for deep, restful sleep. You must also consider what goes under it. The right foundation under your mattress can make a huge difference in the kind of support your back gets and in the lifespan of your mattress. Without a good foundation, you might end up with backaches and your mattress could also start sagging after a while.
Both bed slats and box springs are popular foundations for a mattress. However, they both have their sets of pros and cons.
Often, it gets confusing for people when it comes to choosing between the two. And since both types are equally popular, there isn’t a single right answer for all.
In this guide, we will compare box springs and bed slats, starting with what each type means and the advantages and disadvantages of both. We will also include a tabular comparison of each type so you can decide for yourself which features you need.
Bed slats, as the name indicates, consist of slats or planks that span across the bed frame horizontally to support the mattress. Unlike solid foundations or box springs, they come with spaces in between, and these gaps or spaces can be adjusted to provide different levels of comfort for varying sleep habits.
Bed slats can also include storage under the bed, and you can even have adjustable frames with it. You can get any height of the bed frame when using bed slats but, in general, slatted bed foundations tend to be lower in height compared to box spring foundations. Traditionally, bed slats were only available with wooden planks. However, these days, you can get slats made of particle boards, metal, upholstered wood, plywood, etc.
Some people erroneously believe that bed slats may not be able to provide adequate support owing to the gaps in the planks. That isn’t the case, though; bed slats can be as supportive to a mattress as box springs, if not more. In fact, compared to other foundations, slats keep the mattress secure and mostly unmoving.A very important advantage of bed slats is the fact that the gaps in between help enhance breathability, which, in turn, reduces mold, mildew, etc. They also keep the mattress cool and comfortable in warm weather and winters when you have central heating on.
Bed slats can be differentiated based on the slats or planks used. Accordingly, you can have single or double planks. In the latter, there is a central line running through the slats effectively dividing them into two-sided planks. This is better for king-sized or double beds because if one person tends to toss and turn a lot, the planks on that side move without transferring the movement to the other side. This can result in better sleep.
A further classification of bed slats can come from the kind of planks used. Accordingly, you can go in for standard planks or the softer and flexible sprung planks.
The former are sturdier and more supportive and without any flexibility or “give.” The latter are more flexible and have a slight curve. Moreover, the tightness of sprung planks is also adjustable based on the kind of support you prefer. Accordingly, the firmness provided to your mattress by the slats will vary based on these adjustments. Experts recommend opting for standard plank slats for firmness, and sprung slats for softer and more flexible support.
Whether or not you are a DIY person, you can easily assemble slats since most planks/slats these days are light in weight, sleek, and thin. This makes them easy to transport and even a single person can assemble them with ease.
Arguably, the biggest advantage of slatted bed foundations is the support they provide to your mattress. Slats or planks help minimize mattress sagging to a great extent. This, in turn, can enhance your mattress’s longevity. They also keep the mattress horizontal, which can help prevent lumps in the mattress. All these factors can make your mattress last years.
People looking for aesthetically pleasing bed foundations would do better with bed slats. You can choose sleek, black, metal slats with matching bed frames and headboards. Even the high-quality wooden slats look very rich and elegant.
As far as budget is concerned, slatted beds are cheaper. Even the slightly expensive and higher-end slats will still provide you value for your money as they last longer, enhance your mattress’s durability and longevity, and are highly dependable as well.
Slatted beds are timeless classics. With changes in interior design, slats can change in terms of materials used, style, etc. However, they will never completely go out of fashion.
The best part is that if a single slat develops cracks or problems, you can replace it without having to toss out the entire bed or even touch the other slats.
Metal slats won’t even develop cracks. They are extremely durable.
Bed slats allow breathability and greater airflow. This reduces mold, fungal spores, and mildew that are caused by sweat and moisture. Slats also reduce dust, bacterial colonies, and mold, making them great for people with allergies or compromised immunity.
With slatted foundations, you can easily add drawers, pullouts, and even an extra mattress.
When you order slats online, they won’t come assembled. This is an easy DIY project, but it could still be inconvenient for elderly people.
Moreover, slats need proper fitting and adjustments if you want them to provide optimal support. Without this, it can lead to uneven support to your mattress which can impact your sleep quality. With DIYing, these important points may be compromised.
It is best to only opt for metal slats. Wooden slats could swell up if you live in a humid area. Over time, wood can also crack, and if kids jump on the slats, the entire bed could collapse.
You cannot use light or thin mattresses, as the slats can press into these. Over time, the mattress will become shapeless and lumpy or bumpy. Moreover, you might feel the slats pressing into your back and neck. That is why you need a sturdy, supportive, and thicker memory foam mattress with this foundation.
Whether you sleep on your side, back, or tummy, you can opt for slatted beds, provided your mattress is thick and supportive.
When you order slats online, they won’t come assembled. This is an easy DIY project, but it could still be inconvenient for elderly people.
Moreover, slats need proper fitting and adjustments if you want them to provide optimal support. Without this, it can lead to uneven support to your mattress which can impact your sleep quality. With DIYing, these important points may be compromised.
It is best to only opt for metal slats. Wooden slats could swell up if you live in a humid area. Over time, wood can also crack, and if kids jump on the slats, the entire bed could collapse.
You cannot use light or thin mattresses, as the slats can press into these. Over time, the mattress will become shapeless and lumpy or bumpy. Moreover, you might feel the slats pressing into your back and neck. That is why you need a sturdy, supportive, and thicker memory foam mattress with this foundation.
Whether you sleep on your side, back, or tummy, you can opt for slatted beds, provided your mattress is thick and supportive.
| Pros of Bed Slats | Cons of Bed Slats |
|---|---|
|
Easier to assemble |
Require certain types of mattresses, preferably thicker ones |
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Enhance mattress’s longevity |
Slats can warp and swell, especially those made from wood |
|
Stylish in appearance |
|
|
Better choice for people with allergies |
|
|
Reduce mold, mildew, and moisture |
|
|
Trendy |
|
|
Easier to repair |
|
|
Value for money |
As the name indicates, box springs are box-like frames containing springs. They are also called divans in some countries and typically include a wooden or metal box frame with a mattress of the same size.
The early box springs were called bedsprings, and they consisted of spring-cushioned mattresses covered with cloth. Later on, manufacturers started making wooden box springs covered with upholstery fabric as wood offered greater support.
The biggest advantage of box springs is that they elevate your mattress and can either be placed directly on the floor or encased within a bed frame. The top of the frame can be slatted, although these slats are more evenly spaced. By placing the box spring within a frame, you can elevate your mattress’s height, making it easier to get in and out of bed.
Standard profile or High profile
Also known as regular profile box spring, a standard profile box spring has a height of about 9 inches, with most bed frames being 7 inches.
Standard or high-profile box springs were the most popular box springs in the early days. This is the type to go for if you like to sleep up high. High-profile box springs also fit standard dust ruffles.
Low profile
As the name indicates, low-profile box springs have a lower height than standard – between 4 and 6 inches. This is their only difference, and both varieties offer the same level of support.
You can also add a thicker mattress on top of a low-profile box spring if you prefer higher beds.
Versatile and compatible with most mattress types
There is a lot of variety in the market when it comes to choosing a mattress. The best part about box springs is that they’re compatible with a wide range of mattresses. You will do well by selecting innersprings and hybrid mattresses because they get better support and superior shock absorption from the coils of box springs.
Better support and uniform weight distribution
The biggest advantage of box springs, other than increased height, is the uniform weight distribution of the mattress. Whether you use a wooden or metal bed frame, a box spring will be in a better position to distribute the weight of the mattress evenly.
Extend your bed’s lifespan
Since the coils absorb shocks and evenly distribute the bed frame and mattress’s weight, a box spring could extend the lifespan of your bed.
Easier to get on/off
Many people like the extra height offered by box springs. They find it easier getting on and off their bed.
Better for your mattress
A box spring is better for a mattress because it could prevent lumps and bumps, especially with closely spaced slats. This could enhance your mattress’s duration.
You can add storage
By placing the box spring in a bed frame, you could add storage underneath.
Affordable
Box springs are generally cheaper and affordable. You can also get higher-end models, so there is something for any budget. Disadvantages of Box Springs.
They need rotation
You need to rotate your box spring to extend your beds’ and box spring’s lifespan. This process requires effort and is not for everyone.
They are bulky
The biggest downside to box springs is their bulk. They occupy space, are tricky to assemble, and the ones kept directly on the floor do not have storage.
Select box spring if you need that extra height and want ease in getting in and out of bed. You also need space in your bedroom when you choose this type of bed. Remember: box springs are heavy and bouncy. Select a good hybrid or innerspring mattress that can use that coil support.
If you like platform or adjustable type beds, then you cannot use box springs with them.
| Pros of Box Springs | Cons of Box Springs |
|---|---|
|
Easier to get on and off |
Need rotation from time to time to enhance longevity |
|
Extend the life of mattress and bed |
Bulky and space-occupying, heavy and bouncy |
|
Affordable |
Not for people who prefer adjustable beds |
|
Compatible with different mattress types, especially innersprings and hybrid mattress |
|
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Better support and uniform weight distribution |
You can add a box spring on bed slats if you need the extra height. However, this assembly might not do much for you in way of support. If a bed has built-in slats, you don’t need a box spring.
Both types have their pros and cons. Please refer above for exact comparisons and to help you make a choice.
Some thin mattresses are known to develop lumps and become thinner when used with slats. It is recommended going in for thicker and heavier memory foam mattresses with bed slats.
It is advisable not to put a mattress directly on metal slats. This won’t give you desired support. However, you could place a mattress directly on wooden slats.
Choosing between bed slats and box springs can be tricky. Naturally, the choice entirely depends on your budget, individual taste, mattress height preferences, etc. There honestly isn’t a right or wrong answer.
You can choose a box spring if you don’t mind the bulk and heaviness and prefer the ease of getting in and out of your bed. Alternatively, select bed slats if you want the stylish appearance, ease of repairs, and value for your money.
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