What Is a Box Spring?
A good foundation.
It’s difficult to be a mattress expert when you only shop for a new one every eight to ten years, and a decade is a long time considering how rapidly technology changes. In this comprehensive guide we explain what a box spring is, and clear up questions around whether you need one or not.
What Is a Box Spring?
(Shop this image: upholstered beds, round ottomans, pink throw pillows, solid-color area rugs, and hardwood flooring)
A box spring is a supportive foundation for your mattress that is made of a wooden or metal frame and covered in fabric. Springs are evenly spaced throughout the inside of the frame. Box springs are made to go underneath mattresses and on top of bed frames. They provide many benefits like adding height, sturdiness, protection, and ventilation to your bed setup.
(Shop this image: round nightstands, geometric area rugs, gold table lamps, modern vases, and wicker storage baskets)
If you have a platform bed, you likely don’t need a box spring. Platform beds are bed frames with wooden or metal slats that provide a surface for the mattress to lay. The slats take the place of a box spring while providing similar ventilation and stability. Platform beds bring your mattress much lower to the ground and may be less comfortable than a mattress with a box spring since they lack the springs that absorb movement. Box springs also tend to be lighter than platform beds, which make them ideal for people who move often or need to bring them up or down a flight of stairs.
(Shop this image: flatweave area rugs, metal bed frames, wood nightstands, faux trees, and bed pillows)
You will need a box spring if you opt for a traditional innerspring mattress or if you have a bed frame without slats as the mattress could sag through. A box spring is typically not necessary for more modern mattress types, such as memory foam, latex, or hybrid. However, a box spring can be used with any mattress type if you want to add more height or ventilation to your bed.
Types of Box Springs by Height
If you need to include a box spring in your bed setup you’ll want to consider the height it will add to your bed. Check out these options to help you make the best choice.
- Low-Profile: Low-profile box springs are typically two to five inches tall. A thin box spring is great for those who prefer a lower-profile bed for modern styles or those who need a lower bed because of height or mobility issues.
- Standard-Profile: Standard-profile box springs range from five to nine inches tall. They’re great for a classic bed height that’s not too tall and not too short.
- High-Profile: High-profile box springs stand tall, at heights above nine inches. This height is perfect for taller people or for those who would like their bed to be a showstopping piece in their space.
Box Spring Features & Options
Aside from height, there are several other features that you can look for when choosing a box spring. Consider these box spring features when choosing the right one for your bedroom.
- Cover Included: Box springs with covers are great for avoiding splinters from wood frames or rust from metal frames. They’re also a great option for those who’d like the ability to clean the surface of their box spring!
- Folding: Folding box springs fold in half. They’re a great option for those who move houses frequently as they can be made smaller to fit down narrow hallways and into packed moving vans. They’re also great if you have a temporary bedroom setup. In-laws coming over for a visit? Turn your home office into a bedroom with a folding box spring that doesn’t take up too much space when it’s not being used.
- Fully Assembled: Fully assembled box springs require no assembly. They’re a perfect fit for those who can’t or don’t want to spend time putting together furniture. Just put it in place and you're good to go!
- Split: Split box springs come with two separate box springs that fit onto one bed. These kinds of box springs are ideal for those who have beds with customizable features. Adjustable beds and beds with different levels of firmness call for separate box springs.
- With Storage: Box springs with storage marry form and function. They’re fully equipped for comfortable sleeping but also provide storage for extra blankets, pillows, or anything else you might need to store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a box spring on a platform bed?
Yes, you can use a box spring on a platform bed to add extra height. However, platform beds have built-in slats designed to support a mattress. A box spring can look odd on certain platform beds and is not aesthetically compatible with many modern-style bedrooms that prioritize sleek, low-profile furniture.
How long does a box spring last?
A box spring will typically last for eight to 10 years. High-quality box springs can last for well over a decade, while low-quality ones may need to be replaced after a year or two. High-quality box springs are made of durable materials such as solid wood or steel and have a cover to protect them from wear and tear.
Is a box spring necessary for memory foam mattresses?
No. Box springs are typically not necessary for memory foam mattresses. In some cases, the hard materials in box springs can even damage foam mattresses, so you should go by the mattress manufacturer's recommendation. A platform bed with a flat surface is more suited for memory foam mattresses.
