Box Spring Vs Slats. What's The Difference?
If you're considering a new bed, or possibly trying to find new ways of refreshing your existing mattress, you may be looking into extra support through a new box spring or slats. But like most people, you may find yourself confused and wondering what the difference is between the two. Both have their pros and cons, but ultimately it comes down to what fits your needs best. Here's a breakdown of how each one works, and some factors to consider when making your ultimate decision.
What is a Box Spring?
Box springs provide a simple and sturdy platform for your mattress. Made from wood or metal, they offer the perfect mix of durability and comfort to ensure that you have an excellent night’s sleep at all times! Although traditional box springs were typically designed with springs inside, the more modern design will come hollow, with no springs necessary.
They typically come in two parts - a metal frame that’s fastened together, followed by a sturdy wooden box covered with a protected fabric. It then sits right on top of the metal frame and is secured to hold your mattress on top. Although, it’s not uncommon for some to purchase just the wooden box to sit atop their existing or preferred bed frame.
Ultimately, a box spring is typically more requested for its sturdier foundational support. This factor can aid those who typically have some challenges getting out of bed. This includes those with back pain, as it caused less strain on your joints and on your muscles if you find you have to push yourself up to get out of bed. Paired with the right type of mattress for you, we find that it can better accommodate stomach sleepers, side sleepers, and even back sleepers, alike!
PROS:
The box spring is a great way to get your mattress off the floor and create more space in your bedroom. This factor will also benefit those struggling with clothing your mattress, as the elevated height won’t cause you to bend down so low, just to change the sheets.
When it comes to the longevity of your invested items, you can be sure to have a longer lifespan of both your mattress and your box spring frame. With its firm structure, it naturally assists to avoid increased sagging of your mattress, and/or its foundation over time.
Lastly, it's a great alternative to help to bring more elevation to your existing mattress, as it’s more cost-effective than purchasing a new frame or a new mattress, altogether! Some would even consider purchasing another mattress to place under their existing one, but this choice can be costly. Others have also considered adding a mattress topper to increase the height, but most are typically only an inch thick, so this option may not give you the height you’re looking for. A box spring is usually a great option for your desired comfort, and for your wallet.
CONS:
On the other hand, it’s important to note that these items come separately, and need some assembly. It’s important to keep that in mind when bringing home these items, so make sure you purchase an installment package from the manufacturer or ask a family member for help.
Secondly, box springs tend to be slightly bulkier, so you may find some extra weight to this option. It’s important to keep that in mind when considering moving.
And lastly, although it has great circulation to breathe (as it’s elevated off the ground), it typically doesn’t allow for too much space underneath. It may be easier to collect dust, but harder to clean.
What are Slats?
An alternative option for your mattress support would be slatted on a platform bed. Typically they come made of either wood or metal, and run horizontally across your existing bed frame, or can come in a frame that sits on the ground. Slats can accommodate those who prefer more flexibility, or lean towards firmness, as they come in both standard and sprung. The standard structure provides a flat appearance and works well for firmness and support, while the sprung style comes curved, and supply more flexibility for those that prefer movement.
These two styles of slats are designed to accommodate all types of sleepers, as you have the choice to pick your preference! More flexibility is great for side and back sleepers, while a firm choice is suggested for stomach sleepers.
PROS:
A great benefit of choosing slats for your mattress foundation is that it allows for great air circulation! The slats are typically placed 2-3 inches apart, and sometimes have two slats placed side-by-side, depending on the size of your mattress and your preference for stability. This spacing allows for ventilation and can greatly reduce heat accumulation throughout the night as well, which can be a huge advantage for those bothered by waking up with heat throughout their slumber.
Another factor to consider is its easy installation and removal time. Its lightweight design assists in quicker assembly, or for transporting throughout a move. Another advantage is its aesthetic appeal. Since slats are placed inside a frame, it supplies a more modest appearance, and are hidden out of sight. This is usually favoured by those who have a specific frame already in mind.
CONS:
Some other aspects to keep in mind if you’re considering slats, is the style of mattress that you’ll be placing on top. This is important because slats can have the tendency to sag, especially with memory foam, or memory gel style mattresses. This is because their material is designed to mold, and if the slats are placed too far apart, you’ll find that these types of mattresses have the tendency to sink through the slats. This can cause warping in your mattress, and ultimately, not give you the proper support you need.
Another factor to consider is the installation process. As much as it may be effective and quick to install, it needs to be done correctly and securely. Otherwise, you may find that the slats may begin to bend improperly, shift sideways, or even fall out of place. This is crucial, as it may damage your mattress, and more importantly, it can cause injury throughout the night!
Can You Use Both?
The ultimate answer is no. Depending on your style of mattress, it’s best to use one or the other, but not both. If you find that neither of these options is giving you the comfort and support that you’re looking for, you can always consider a bunkie board or even a piece of plywood. These options can assist in maintaining the structure of your mattress to avoid sinking, and even supply more firmness to your overall foundation. They both typically come in all sizes, so you can be sure to find the right size for your existing mattress.
Conclusion
Box springs and slats are both important when it comes to your bed’s comfort and support. So what’s the ultimate difference between the two? Well, it depends on your overall preference. Slats are typically found in platform beds, while box springs are more common in traditional bed frames. Slates are more cost-effective, while box springs tend to be more secure in their overall frame and support.
Aside from your preference and budget, it’s important to keep in mind what your current style of mattress is and what will best accommodate its longevity. Or, if you have your eyes set on a brand new style of mattress altogether, a great option will be to speak to the manufacturer and get their professional opinion about the two options, to best maintain your investment.