This article is about the frame used to support a mattress. For the spring in Yellowstone Park, see Box Spring. For other uses, see Box Springs. Queen size box-spring on metal bed frame A box-spring (or divan in some countries) is a type of bed base typically consisting of a sturdy wooden frame covered in cloth and containing springs. Usually the box-spring is placed on top of a wooden or metal bedframe that sits on the floor and acts as a brace, except in the UK where the divan is more often fitted with small casters. The box-spring is usually the same size as the much softer mattress that is placed on it. Working together, the box-spring and mattress (with optional bed frame) make up a bed. It is common to find a box-spring and mattress being used together without the support of a frame underneath, the box spring being mounted directly on casters standing on the floor. The purpose of the box-spring is threefold: The first rectangular spring-cushioned wire frames to support mattresses did not have wood rims or cloth covers.
These were called bedsprings. More and more box-springs are being made out of wood, then covered in fabrics. Wood makes a better support system for the newer memory foam and latex mattresses.[1] The newest design in box-springs is the folding box spring made of wood or metal, then covered in fabric which can fold in half and can be sent by shipping and courier companies. With the increasing height of mattresses, manufacturers now make box springs in different heights. Standard "high profile" box springs are 9 inches (23 cm) in height, whereas "low profile" box springs are between 5 and 5.5 inches (13 and 14 cm). The difference between the two heights is purely aesthetic and makes no difference in the support provided for the mattress. Box-spring beds are especially popular in the United States, Canada and Australia. Alternatively, in Japan, futon mattresses are usually either placed on a bedframe or on the floor, without the use of springs. In Europe, wooden frames with a middle section consisting of springs held in place by wire (to be put into the wooden bedframe as a unit) used to be the standard for most of the 20th century.
The springs have mostly been replaced by pre-bent wooden slats (usually glulam made from beech or birch) which are joined to the outer wooden frame by some form of flexible rubber bolt, shoe or socket. This lath floor provides suspension, allows the mattress to ventilate, and can be designed to be vertically adjustable in order to elevate the legs and / or the torso. A more simple approach is to join straight laths with a textile strap so that they can be rolled up for transport and placed right into the bedframe.WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BUNKIE BOARD AND A BOX SPRING? A bunkie board is a piece of plywood that’s placed under the mattress. It’s often used with an older box spring, foundation, or platform bed to provide proper support for a foam mattress (which tends to be heavier than a spring mattress). A box spring looks more like a piece of furniture. It’s around 6” tall and is often used with a spring mattress to provide additional comfort. If you have a foam mattress, like a Casper, what you’re looking for is a foundation.
Foundations are sturdier than box springs and give mattresses with memory foam the right support. Box springs were originally designed for spring mattresses. Spring mattresses utilize springs to support the body and “push back” on the weight being applied to them, creating pressure points. Box springs help to minimize this effect by providing additional shock absorption. Bunkie boards (or bunky boards) are typically used to complement an existing setup. Newer mattresses, particularly those with memory foam (like Casper’s), are denser and heavier than spring mattresses. A bunkie board can be used with a box spring or older foundation or platform bed to ensure that it’s able to properly support the weight of a newer foam mattress. The reality, however, is that bunkie boards don’t often last for the life of the mattress. We spent thousands of hours designing and redesigning every angle of the Casper Foundation. We sat on prototypes, rolled around on them, and tested them for durability.
Russell Jelinek, the lead engineer on the Casper Foundation, specially designed the brackets that hold the foundation together so they’re super durable and easy to use. The whole foundation can be put together in under 10 minutes. In the end, it matches the Casper mattress like an exhausted body falls into bed. Back to U.S. Website, APO/FPO FurnitureExtra 15% offSelect Furniture by Christopher Knight*RugsUp to 70% offSelect Area Rugs by Safavieh*DécorUp to 50% offSelect Curtains by Exclusive Fabrics*Bed & BathSave onSelect Bedding & Bath by Laura Ashley & MoreHome ImprovementExtra 15% offHome Improvement*KitchenShop AppliancesOutdoorUp to 50% offSelect Outdoor Furniture by Portfolio*JewelryUp to 50% offSelect Auriya Jewelry*WatchesUp to 50% off Featured Branded Watches*Shop WatchesWomenUp to Extra 15% offClothing, Shoes & Accessories*MenUp to Extra 15% offClothing, Shoes & Accessories*Kids & BabyExtra 10% offKids Furniture*MoreExtra 10% offPet Supplies* How to Select a Box Spring
Many people ask, "Do I need a box spring?" The answer is yes. As the foundation of any bed, the box spring is almost as important as choosing the right mattress. The box spring was built for durability and designed to absorb and distribute the weight of your mattress for added comfort and a more sound sleep. In addition to the extra comfort, your box spring will help prolong the life of your mattress. Box springs are generally made from wood and contain a steel reinforcement to provide strength. A thick fabric called ticking is applied to the sides, a skid-resistant fabric is added to the top, and the bottom is covered with a fabric dust barrier. There are a few things to consider when choosing a box spring, such as the size, type, and material. The right box spring can make or break a mattress purchase, so shop wisely and take the time to select the box spring that's right for your bed. Plan for Your Desired Bed Height A benefit of a box spring is the added height to your bed.
However, this means you need to take into account the total height of both the box spring and mattress. The two most common box spring heights are a standard 9-inch box spring and a low profile 5-inch box spring. With the popularity of memory foam toppers and high-profile deluxe mattresses, the addition of an average 9-inch box spring can make a rather tall bed. If your mattress is already at the desired height, look for a low-profile box spring. Although the low-profile box spring is much smaller in size, it still provides the same support and durability as a 9-inch box spring. Split Box Spring vs. Standard Box Spring Whereas a standard box spring comes as one whole piece, a split box spring comes in two sections to make up the size of your mattress. Unlike a mattress, a box spring can't be squished into submission to fit through narrow halls and doorways. If you have a queen size bed or larger, and narrow halls in your home, you may need to purchase a split queen box spring.
A split box spring does cost slightly more than a one-piece model; however, the ease of moving them makes up for the extra expense. A split box spring will require support in the center of the bed frame, so ensure your bed frame will accommodate this type of box spring. Select Materials That Suit Your Lifestyle Box springs come with many options, including ones with densely packed coils as well as boxes with hypoallergenic fabrics, organic fabrics, and natural fillers. If you come across a cheap box spring that looks very similar to a higher priced one, read the fine print; there could be major differences in spring type, fibers, or other parts of the box spring. Don't Overlook the Included Box Spring Always take a good look at the mattress and box spring set. Often, manufacturers sell these combinations according to consumer popularity or as a promotional offer. With these packaged deals, it's possible to get a box spring for significantly less than the retail price.