Best Boxsprings – Top Picks and Buyer’s Guide

Box Spring Buyer's Guide

The right box spring can make a big difference in terms of your bed’s comfort and the longevity of your mattress. Here are some important points to consider when shopping for one.

What Is a Box Spring?

A box spring is a foundation used under mattresses for extra support. When the bed frame cannot entirely support the mattress on its own, the box spring prevents sagging and elevates the mattress.

Traditional box springs were made with a wood frame covering coil springs encased in fabric. This design does not allow much flexibility though, as anyone who’s ever maneuvered one up a set of narrow stairs can attest. Modern box springs are more likely to be made from lightweight, durable steel with removable covers. This design makes them easier to move and increases their durability, since there aren’t any springs to wear out.

Do You Need to Use a Bed Frame with a Box Spring?

Technically speaking, you don’t have to use a bed frame with a box spring. Box springs can be placed directly on the floor under the mattress. However, this isn’t always the most aesthetically pleasing arrangement, and eliminates all potential underbed storage.

Typically, box springs are used with standard bed frames that have support slats on each side and a center support beam. Some of these frames are adjustable to accommodate different mattress sizes. This style of bed frame is fairly inexpensive, and offers a few advantages. In addition to providing support and elevating the mattress higher off the floor, they create space for underbed storage and can accommodate most headboards.

Box Spring Alternatives

Box springs aren’t your only option for supporting your mattress. In fact, some styles of bed frame don’t require any additional support, completely eliminating the need for a box spring.

Foundations and Platform Beds

Bed foundations and platform beds are typically constructed as a simple frame connected with slats or lattice that can support a mattress without a box spring. Ideal for memory foam mattresses, as they provide an even amount of support to the entire mattress and adequate airflow, platform beds are available in styles to match any decor.

Bed Frames

Some styles of bed frames do not require a box spring. These bed frames are typically simple, with legs attached to a support platform made from wood or metal. Adjustable beds, folding beds, and Murphy beds also don’t generally require box springs.

Floating Beds

Another type of platform bed, floating beds are designed to look as if they are actually floating in the air. Most have a support beam underneath to provide support. The mattress fits into the platform surface of these beds, with no box spring necessary.

Storage Beds

Storage beds are a type of platform bed that incorporates storage into the frame. The most common type includes built-in drawers under the platform area, but many also include shelves or cabinets in the headboard as well. Some storage beds are also designed so that the entire sleep surface can be lifted to reveal additional storage underneath.

What Else Should You Consider When Buying a Box Spring?

When shopping for a box spring, consider these points to help you compare your options.

• Size: Most box springs are available in all sizes from twin to California king, including twin XL.
• Measurements: Don’t rely only on size descriptions alone. Some box springs are slightly smaller or larger than the corresponding mattress, so make sure to carefully check the dimensions in the description before purchasing a box spring.
• Warranty: Does the manufacturer offer a warranty? Review the terms carefully, as using the box spring with the wrong type of mattress or bed frame may void the warranty.
• Shipping: How does the box spring ship? Is free shipping available?