
There are other types of supports that you can use under a mattress, including platform beds and foundations. Additionally, you should think about replacing the box spring if you purchase a new mattress. You’ll have to replace your box spring when it begins to show signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, warping, or audible sounds when the box spring is compressed. The average box spring performs for 10 years before it needs to be replaced. The term “box spring” refers to the traditional design that uses actual springs (or metal grid patterns in cheaper models) surrounded by a wooden or metal frame. A foam bed, which lacks the rigid structure of an innerspring mattress, should be used with a very solid support base, such as a platform bed. This is a good feature for innerspring beds, but can be damaging for foam mattresses. To improve airflow, which helps to keep the mattress coolerīox springs provide support, but are also able to absorb some shock from the mattress itself.To protect the mattress by absorbing impact.To raise the mattress up to a more comfortable height.To provide underlying support for the mattress.The box spring is intended to serve a few purposes: It sits directly under the mattress, providing support. It consists of a wooden frame filled with springs (or a metal grid) and wrapped in fabric. What is a Box Spring?Ī box spring is a support for your mattress that’s manufactured to be the same size as the bed. Not only that, but also some mattress warranties will stipulate that you use a recommended type of bed base or render them void. Different styles of mattresses can benefit from different types of foundations, so it’s helpful to go directly to the source to see what the manufacturer recommends. You can find this information on the manufacturer or retailer’s website, and often on the tag attached to the mattress itself. To determine whether or not you need a box spring, it’s helpful to read the recommendations of your bed’s manufacturer. If you’re looking for other options to use instead of box springs, consider platform beds and wood slat foundations. While even the best mattress models made today benefit from a supportive foundation, certain types don’t require a box spring – and for some, using a box spring can cause permanent structural damage.


This means innersprings and hybrids are the best mattress types to use with box springs.īox springs are designed for use with innerspring beds, and some models do not provide the same type of rigid support needed for a foam bed.

Box springs are primarily designed for use with coil-based mattresses. In fact, traditional box springs don’t provide the rigid support needed for many newer foam and latex beds. Most modern mattresses including mattresses in a box do not require a box spring. Over a decade ago, a box spring was essentially required when buying a new mattress. Those who prefer to sleep with a mattress directly on the floor.Those who prefer the style or functionality of a platform bed, wood foundation, or other kind of bed base.Those with newer memory foam, latex, or hybrid mattresses.There are a few reasons why you shouldn’t use a box spring. Those who want to elevate their bed to make it easier to get in and out of (although other box spring alternatives can serve this same purpose).Those with a mattress whose manufacturer specifically recommends box springs.Those with an older innerspring mattress designed for use with a box spring.Those using a traditional metal rail bed frame, which is designed to cradle box springs.The main people that should use a box spring include: Today, most modern mattresses do not necessarily require a box spring.ĭetermining whether it’s better to sleep with or without a box spring depends on a few factors.

However, box springs were more prevalent when mattresses had much thinner profiles overall, and were primarily innerspring designs. Box springs were created to help absorb impact, reducing the wear and tear on the mattress. Whether this should be a box spring, a foundation, or a platform bed depends on several factors.Īll mattresses will benefit from having a firm, solid foundation to rest on. For most mattresses, having something between the mattress itself and the floor is helpful.
