Back in the day, if you asked anyone whether you needed a box spring for your mattress or not, the answer would probably be definitely yes! However, with years passing by, manufacturers improved their mattresses to the point where now, you do not need a box spring anymore.
However, in some cases, box springs are still useful, it might be even essential to invest in them if you purchase certain types of mattresses. On the other hand, box springs have a few advantages that most people do not know of.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about box springs so that you can make an informed decision on whether to invest in one for your mattress or not. And one thing worthwhile to mention here, Do you know Who makes the best heated mattress pad?
What is a Box Spring?
A box spring is exactly what it is called: a box with springs inside it. A box spring is a strong base for most mattresses, made of wood and coils.
The wood creates a frame that looks similar to your mattress when it comes to size and looks, while the coils in the core provide some give and absorb shock. Box springs may seem ancient in comparison to other types of mattress support, but they are still effective in specific scenarios
What is the Purpose of Box Springs?
Box springs are used for many reasons, such as improving the mattress support, protecting the mattress by absorbing shocks and impact, raising the mattress to a comfortable level, and cooling down the mattress as well as improving the airflow.
This offers great support for innerspring mattresses. On the other hand, it is not suitable for foam mattresses. A foam bed should be used with a very sturdy support base, such as a platform bed, this is because they do not have the strong structure of an innerspring mattress.
Do I Really Need a Box Spring?
Any mattress can use the extra foundation beneath it, and that is why box springs were made, to reduce the tear and wear on the mattresses. Still, box springs were more popular when mattresses used to be a lot thinner.
Mattresses nowadays do not require a box spring as they are already supported enough by default. However, box springs could still be quite helpful in certain cases. Whether you need a box spring or not depends on the bed frame or foundation you have as well as the mattress warranty.
Who Should Get a Box Spring?
Even though box springs are not as popular nowadays as they once used to be, there are still a few scenarios where you can use a box spring, such as having a metal frame with no reinforcement slats, increasing mattress height to make getting in and out of bed easier, and to add extra support for an innerspring mattress,
If You Have a Collapsible Bed Frame
The reason why box springs were so common is that they were always used with collapsible metal bed frames. Even though those frames offer a mattress outline, they did not provide enough support for the mattress as it does not include supporting slats.
So, if you have such a frame, you might want to consider a box spring to help you extend your mattress’s lifespan and provide enough comfort while sleeping. On the other hand, You do not need to get a box spring if you got a metal bed frame with slats, an adjustable bed frame, or a platform bed frame.
To Elevate Your Bed
If you are not a fan of sleeping closer to the ground, you can use a box spring to elevate your bed a little and make it even more comfortable for you to get in and out of bed.
This is a very good technique to relieve back pain and to make it easier for the elderly to get in and out of bed.
For Extra Mattress Support
If you have an innerspring mattress, you will probably need a box spring. But this is not always the case as some mattresses are designed to not need a box spring. therefore, you should speak with the manufacturer at first before you decide to buy a box spring.
You can also research on your own without contacting the manufacturer. With a simple online search, you will be able to check what kinds of bed goes with which mattresses and more info on these mattresses and whether they require a box spring or not.
According to the company and website info, you can decide whether or not you will need a box spring. Keep in mind that this will not only extend the mattress lifespan by providing extra support but will also ensure you stay in warranty.
Benefits of a Box Spring
Even though the coil mattress trend is fading, knowing whether a box spring is a good investment can be helpful. Box springs were originally designed to add height to your bed and support your mattress, and they still do so today, along with a few other advantages.
Elevating the Bed
Despite the current trend of sleeping lower to the ground, many people still want to sleep on a higher surface. A box spring can assist you to reach a comfortable height if you have joint problems, if you’re tall, or if you have trouble getting out of bed in the morning.
Better Airflow
Although box springs have coils and wood inside, they are still quite hollow. Using box springs allows for better air circulation around your mattress, helping you to relax, breathe, and sleep better.
Absorbing Shocks
One of the very nice advantages of box springs is that it absorbs the force on your mattress. Whether your children jump on your bed, your dog jumps in for cuddles, or you just toss and turn a lot at night, a box spring can help you extend your mattress life.
If you decide against buying a box spring, you will need to be more careful if you leave it on the floor, as there is nothing beneath the mattress to absorb the shock or even a part of the force. Therefore, you might find yourself getting rid of your mattress sooner than you planned.
A box spring can be worth your investment in some cases. However, make sure you do enough research on the mattress you are buying to make sure you indeed need it. This might also mean that you could opt-in for a more affordable mattress to invest in a box spring.
