What is a box spring? And what's the difference between a box spring and a platform bed? Do you need both? 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. Find out just what a box spring is, the answer to the box spring vs. platform bed debate, and the benefits of a box spring by reading this guide.

---

Overview:

What is a Box Spring?
Box Spring vs Platform
Benefits of a Box Spring
Box Spring Heights
Box Spring Features

What is a Box Spring?

A box spring is a mattress-sized box that is made up of a wooden or metal frame and covered in fabric. Inside the frame, springs are evenly spaced to cover the inside of the frame. Their box-shaped frame and spring-filled interior are what give box springs their name. Box springs are made to go underneath mattresses and on top of bed frames. They have many benefits like adding height, sturdiness, protection and ventilation.

Box Spring vs. Platform

Box springs are fabric-covered frames filled with springs that are intended to be positioned between mattresses and bed frames. Platform beds are bed frames with wooden or metal slats that provide a place for the mattress to lay. They don't come with springs and the slats are meant to take the place of a box spring and a bed frame. Platform beds are much lower to the ground because they don’t require any other component besides the mattress. Platform beds grant the ventilation and stability that bed springs provide; however, the fact that platform beds lack springs that can absorb movement can make them less comfortable than box springs. Box springs are also lighter than platform beds, which makes them perfect for people who move often or need to bring theirs up or down a flight of stairs.

Benefits of a Box Spring

If you're still asking yourself 'Do I need a box spring?' - take a look at the list of benefits that a box spring can give you below.

Height: A box spring can add several inches to the height of your mattress. This feature is great for taller people who have to bend down farther than shorter people to get into bed. Extra height is also a plus for those who have trouble bending down. Those with physical impairments may need their bed at a height that allows them to get in and out of it very easily. Also, if you love the look of a tall bed, opt for a box spring. Tall beds bring a touch of regal style to any bedroom.

Sturdiness: Box springs give mattresses an even and flat surface to rest on. Without a box spring, mattresses can bend and form-fit to the slats of a bed frame. Over time, this could cause your mattress to become deformed as it molds itself to the shape of the slats; this can lead to poor sleep due to an uneven mattress.

Protection: Having an extra layer between your mattress and your bed frame is a really good idea as bed frames are commonly made from metal or wood. Metal, when exposed to moisture, can rust and lead to rust marks on your mattress. If you have children, rambunctious pets, or just like to pounce onto your bed, you can also use a bed spring to protect your bed frame's slats from breaking. A box spring will even out the impact instead of letting all of that weight land in one spot.

Circulation: It's a fact – we tend to get hot when we sleep. This is why we’re always looking for the cool side of the pillow. Moisture can get trapped in a mattress if it is not properly ventilated, which can lead to some warm, musty, uncomfortable nights. Use a box spring to allow air to flow in and around your mattress. Otherwise, your mattress could become a home to mold or mildew.

Box Spring Heights

Low-Profile: Low-profile box springs are thin as they are typically two to five inches tall. They’re great for people who prefer a lower-profile bed for a mid-century modern style or those who need a lower bed because of height or ability reasons.

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 that are all above nine inches. This height is perfect for taller people or for those who would like their bed to be a show-stopping piece in their space.

Box Spring Features

Storage Included: 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.

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 house 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. Relatives 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 customisable features. Adjustable beds and beds with different levels of firmness call for separate box springs.

Tip: If you enjoyed this article then why not also check these out:

• Everything You've Ever Wanted to Ask About Bed Frame Types
• Your Complete Guide to Bed and Mattress Sizes
• 10 Canopy Bed Ideas for Every Bedroom