Discover the benefits of box springs and mattress foundations.
When purchasing a new mattress and bed frame, you have an important decision to make: box spring or mattress foundation? Your choice of mattress base will determine the type of bed frame and mattress you will need, or vice versa. There are pros and cons to both options, and you may find that you prefer one to the other. Read on to learn more about what makes box springs and mattress foundations different and which one may be best for you.
Box Springs
A traditional box spring is designed to support an innerspring mattress. These bases are made with a wooden frame, steel support springs, and a cloth cover. Your box spring may also be made entirely of steel rather than wood.
A box spring can fit on a small, foldable metal frame that enables you to add an optional headboard or footboard or a more solid bed frame. Box springs can remove the need for a bed frame for support if you prefer. The best innerspring mattresses can perform well on box springs because they provide the support needed to keep the mattress’s shape intact.
Pros
- Economical
- Motion absorption
- Raises the bed off the ground
- Provides support that prevents sagging and distributes body weight evenly
However, box springs are not as suitable for latex or memory foam mattresses. They also can be quite heavy and take up significant space in the bedroom. A box spring also breaks down over time and may become squeaky or experience broken wooden slats.
Mattress Foundations
Mattress foundations are solid wooden or metal frames designed to support your mattress. Some sit on the floor, while others may be atop a bed frame. Some foundation designs are like box springs with a breathable fabric covering the frame and wooden slats, while others are solid wood structures without gaps. These solid foundations are similar to platform beds.
Foundations do not need a bed frame and can save a lot of space, as they can go directly on your floor. This might be an ideal choice for a person with a king-size mattress who doesn’t want to take up more space. Foundations or platform bed frames are best for mattresses that are not innerspring, like latex or memory foam. However, they can be used with any mattress.
Pros
- Exceptional support
- Sturdiness; they do not break down over time easily
- Great for all mattress types
However, foundations can be heavy and solid varieties are not ideal for a sleeper who doesn’t need such a firm sleeping surface.
Alternatives
If you find that neither box springs nor mattress foundations give you what you need, there are alternatives. Adjustable base beds allow for the sleeper to adjust their elevation and angle and can help people who snore or have sleep apnea. Platform beds sit on the ground and do not require a box spring or foundation. Ultimately, your ideal foundation will depend upon your sleep preferences and desired mattress type.
Sleep Well With A Mattress From All American Mattress
At All American Mattress, we have the expertise and great prices to help you choose the perfect pillows and foam mattress for your bedroom. We have mattresses and bed frames available made from a variety of materials to suit your needs, whatever they are. Stop by our showroom, visit us online, or give us a call at (410) 451-9006 to see how we can get your toddler sleeping through the night. We offer brand names at affordable prices, and we will always work hard to keep your whole family comfortable. For more mattress shopping tips, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
Tags: bed base, box spring, mattress foundations, Mattress Tips