Can You Put A Box Spring On Top of Slats? (Full Explanation)
A proper foundation will ensure your bed and mattress are supported and will last a long time.
Having a firm surface will also contribute to a comfortable bed and sleeping experience.
One of the ways of doing so is placing a box spring on top of slats.
Although it may be unnecessary in some cases, a box spring can be placed on top of slats to provide extra support, increase the height and improve the look of the bed but it really depends on your needs.
Since most beds are already well-made, you can go with either a box spring or slats but if you want to use both, you definitely can.
In this article, you’ll find useful information on box springs and slats, the pros and cons of each, and alternatives you can use instead:
Table of Contents
What is a Box Spring?
The box spring is the foundation of your bed. It holds up the mattress by giving it support and makes the bed feel like a firm surface.
On the inside, the box spring contains spring coils which are used to provide a bouncy feel to the bed.
It is easily identifiable because of its rectangular shaped frame with a fabric covering.
Of course, not all mattresses need a box spring to function.
In fact, most modern mattresses today are manufactured as independent units that can also serve as bed foundations.
Pros vs Cons of Using Box Spring
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It provides the foundation for your mattress | It is bulky and difficult to move around |
| It helps absorb the stress of your body weight and is suitable for those with back issues. | May require maintenance and heavy lifting by flipping the box spring base to maintain its quality. |
| Better support for your mattress | It is usually expensive |
| It gives a more solid feel to your bedding |
What are Slats?
Slats are thin strips of wood or metal that run across the entire bed frame.
They are used to increase the support of a bed. The more slats there are, the firmer your mattress will feel.
Slats give an even surface for your mattress to rest on and are used as a supportive structure.
The mattress is placed on top of the wooden slats, and this setup doesn’t need you to have a box spring because you can place the mattress directly on top of this wood construction.
However, it’s important to note that slats can only withstand a certain amount of weight.
Pros vs Cons of Using Slats
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Firm surface: Slats give your mattress a firmer feel, and they can double up as a box spring. | Can increase the risk of injury: some people dislike the rigid feel of a slatted bed because it can interfere with sleep. |
| Easier to maintain: Slats are easier to clean and maintain. | Can lead to the mattress sagging over time if slats are spaced far apart. |
| Can be used with all types of mattresses: you can use wooden slats with all types of mattresses, including bed frames with traditional box springs. | |
| Great air circulation |
Benefits of Placing A Box Spring on Top of Slats
Now that we have set the basics of box springs, modern mattresses, and slats, we can go onto the core topic here. Can you put a box spring on top of the slats? The answer is yes, you can.
However, it is not a necessary addition to a well-made bed. The truth is that most people don’t really need it when they have a quality mattress and well-laid slats.
The box spring will only height and weight to the slats and to the bed. Having a higher base may look and feel more comfortable, especially for those who are tall.
However, these are aspects you can choose to forgo, but if height is something you need, then go ahead and get one.
Another added benefit to having a box spring on top of slats is that it acts as a barrier between the mattress and the base.
This may prevent sagging if the mattress had been placed on slats that are far apart.
See also: How To Fix A Sagging Mattress (Quick Fixes)
The box spring and slats combination will provide a stable surface.
Why Should I Not Use a Box Spring on Top of Slats?
You can choose to skip this step since, when you use a quality mattress together with quality wooden slats, you get the same effect as a box spring.
The slats are a cheaper alternative that makes your mattress feel a little bouncier but in no way the same as a box spring.
You will also get rid of the additional height that comes with the box spring, which can limit people with mobility issues and kids.
Some of the things to take into consideration are that the box spring needs maintenance and care.
Some springs will rattle and get loose over time, which can make your bed feel less stable.
The box spring also adds height to your bed, which can affect the quality of sleep you get.
Even so, some people believe that they will get more support from their bed if they get a box spring, but there is no need to have a box spring on top of slats unless this is something you deeply want to get, and even then, it is optional.
Other Alternatives to Using a Box Spring on Slats
There are many other alternatives to provide your mattress with firmer support.
One common alternative is to use plywood on top of the slats, which gives an even surface for the mattress to sit on, and this works well for those who want a firmer feeling but not as much height.
Another acceptable alternative to box springs is directly using foam and memory foam mattresses on the slats.
These are all cheaper alternatives that will also give you a firmer feel to your bed.
Moreover, you can consider a bunkie board to give you the same effect as a box spring, with it being even cheaper and more accessible.
You may also want to consider using an adjustable bed that can be personalized and customized according to your requirements.
See also: Box Spring Alternatives: The Best Options For Your Bedroom
Wrapping Up
If you still haven’t made up your mind and pondering over which option will be better, box spring or slats, the answer is that it largely depends on your preference but you can consider the following:
If you want a firmer mattress, then get slats. If you want to have a box spring on top of your bed slats, then, again, go ahead and do it to add that extra height and weight.
However, if all you need is additional height to your bed frame and are okay with the bouncier feel of the more modern innerspring mattress, skip this step altogether.
Basically, the best thing you’ll achieve with a box spring on top of slats is the added aesthetics and extra height.
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