Box Springs vs. Slats: Which is right for you?

When people purchase a new mattress, many of them think the next logical step is to get a box spring foundation to go with it. While it’s true that many beds require a box spring to go along with the new mattress, it’s not always the case. This is where the box springs vs. slats conundrum comes into play.

Typically, you’re going to have one of three different types of beds: one that has a frame that needs box springs; a bed that requires slats or a Bunkie board, or an adjustable base bed. All three options provide you with support and help you sleep better at night, but the battle between box springs vs. slats comes down to the style of your bed and your personal preference.

Pros and Cons of a Box Spring

Box spring foundations have been around for many years. Box springs are usually made up of a wooden frame, springs, and fabric. They’re relatively lightweight and durable, as long as you take care of them. If you do take care of your box springs, including the use of a box spring protector (to ward off dust mites and other nasty things), there’s no reason it shouldn’t last you for many years.

You will want to avoid cheaply made box springs, or buying used box springs as you don’t know the conditions for which they were used. Mattresses are heavy. The last thing you want is to lie down and hear a deafening CRAAACCKKKK as your mattress starts to sag. A good box spring is sturdy, but it’s not indestructible, nor is it meant to last a lifetime.

Pros and Cons of a Slat Bed

Using slats typically means you have a platform bed. This means that wood – or sometimes metal – slats are placed across your bed so your mattress can be placed on top of it. Slats are also lightweight and, if they’re made well, can be durable.

If you have a platform bed that uses slats, you don’t have to use box springs, although you can if you really want. The problem with using slats and box springs is that if too much weight is placed on the frame of your bed, it could crack. You never want to wake up in the middle of the night after your mattress has fallen through to the floor. In short, use one or the other, but not both.

Box Springs vs. Slats: Let Us Help

You don’t really have to worry too much when it comes to the box spring vs. slats debate. The type of bed frame you have is going to really impact which you can use.

That being said, if you have questions about box springs, slats, Bunkie boards, or just about anything to do with your bed, you can always talk with the sleep experts at Mattress Warehouse. Our trained staff can always help you find the right information so you can sleep easier at night.

Visit a Mattress Warehouse store near you to put this box springs vs. slats contest to bed once and for all.