If you’re someone who finds themselves constantly tossing and turning in the middle of the night, you might be asking yourself, “Do I need a box spring?” They really are great if you want to add some extra support or firmness to your bed setup, but with so many on the market, which would be perfect for you?
Typically, these things are used to add extra height and firmness to a bed, but box foundations can also help add levels of bounce and support that just may help you get a better night’s rest. If you’re still not so sure that something like this will help your current sleep situation, just keep reading. We’ve compiled plenty of useful information on box springs and what they can provide which may help you find that restful sleep you’ve been searching for.
Who Should Own a Box Spring?
| Rank | Suitable for: | Not Suitable for: |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | – People with back pain could find extra support easier on their bodies | – People who move locations a lot |
| #2 | – People who need extra height to their bed to make getting in and out easier | – Elderly people who won’t be able to move the box spring alone |
| #3 | – People who need better weight distribution throughout their mattresses | – People who prefer a softer sleep setup |
What is It and is a Box Spring Necessary?
It is usually a sturdy wooden or metal frame that lays under a mattress to give extra height and support and are also used to make a mattress firmer. Box springs are typically made with hard wood or steel that contain a network of coil springs to add extra bounce to a mattress. The frame and coils are then wrapped with a protective layer, typically made out of fabric. The foundation is meant to compliment a mattress, not to be used alone.
The surface of a model like this is very sturdy, so you’d need to make sure you’re buying a box spring that wouldn’t make a mattress too firm. People tend to use box springs if they have back issues or if they’re current mattress is just too soft. Box springs are also handy to use as a standalone platform for a bed if you’d rather not use a box spring and just have your mattress setup on the floor.
They also can be found in different shape and sizes, but most of the models are typically six inches and higher. So, whether you have a sleigh bed, bunk bed, or twin bed, you can be sure to find one that works. Since they are made from heavy materials to prevent give or slipping, box springs can be very difficult to move from place to place. If you’re someone who moves around a lot, you may want to look into lighter, less thick box springs to make moving easier.
Benefits and are Box Springs Necessary for a Bed?
They actually add an extra layer of support. If you’re someone who suffers from back pain, it could be that you aren’t sleeping on a sturdy enough surface. They also will definitely provide enough support to make sure your joints are getting even weight distribution. Even though box springs are firm, they allow your mattress to lay flat and provide a softer sleep for your entire body.
The height added to your bed via a foundation such as this will help you slide out of bed easier each morning. You may not realize it, but a low mattress can put stress on your joints. The hips, knees and even ankles could be affected by a mattress that is too low. With added height, there would definitely be more pep in your step since you won’t have to strain your body first thing in the morning each day. The elevation from the floor also provides the needed airflow required for those who have a memory foam mattress.
The extra give that they also provide allows your mattress to work the way it’s supposed to. Since they are filled with springy coils, the foundation itself provides you enough support with plenty of give so your body can have even weight distribution as you’re sleeping. A good box spring will absorb the body weight and will take all the tension off your mattress. This will also provide longevity to your mattress. A box spring paired up with a good mattress will last you much longer than just relying on a mattress alone.
Downsides to a Box Spring
Although they tend to provide extra layers of support, this won’t be the ideal sleep situation for everyone. You may find that the they can make your sleep setup just too firm. It all really varies from person to person, and one of these just may be too much firmness. Luckily, many models should come with a warranty or sleep trial period, so you’d just have to make sure with the manufacturer you’re purchasing yours from what the warranty details are.
Box springs also may be too heavy for someone who lives alone or someone who is elderly. As stated before, they can be extremely cumbersome to move. Since they’re so heavy to provide all that extra sleep support, it’d be near impossible to move a heavier or bigger model by yourself. If you move around a lot or live alone, this would prove to be a major problem when you’d have to move the bed to another location. Of course, if you’ve got plenty of pals to help you out, this should be ok, but if not, be prepared to call the movers.
Box springs can also turn into noise machines. The most common elements in the construction of certain ones include wood, metal and coils. Over time, metal will start to squeak or rub up against the wood making sounds each time you move. Mind you, this may not prove to be bothersome to everyone and given the quality of your particular one, you may not even notice it, but for someone who is an extremely light or sensitive sleeper, this could be an awful ordeal. There are ways to soundproof your box spring if it does start to make noise, but for most, this could prove to be more of a hassle than it’s worth. Again, this is all boiled down to personal preference.
Conclusion
So, what do you think? Are you ready to make that purchase to test out a new base with your mattress? Do you have a specific brand in mind or are you just going to go out there and browse? Whatever your specifications are for a great sleep, there has to be a box spring out there that’s perfectly tailored to your needs. It’s just a matter of finding it.
Do you have any experience or insight when it comes to box springs? We’d love to know your thoughts! Feel free to share your stories with us in the comments. Did a certain model help you out or did it prove to be more of a headache? Feel free to share – you could help a reader out who isn’t sure if a box spring is for them. Until then, happy shopping and good luck!