20. Platform Bed vs. Box Spring1

In this guide, we will compare differences between Platform Bed and Box Spring. Platform beds are much heavier than box springs in terms of weight, which might make it difficult to move around.

How Do Platform Beds Work?

A platform bed is a low-profile bed frame with a solid or slatted surface for mattress support. Platform beds typically have a height of 5 to 12 inches. Sleigh beds, canopy beds, and four-poster beds are examples of traditional bed frames that might not be able to support a mattress well enough; in these cases, a box spring or mattress foundation is typically required.

Due to the fact that they act as a bed frame with a built-in foundation, platform beds are a cost-effective option. The surface of the solid wood is perforated or channeled to increase airflow and breathability. The amount of space between the wooden slats affects how supported you feel on the mattress and allows air to circulate, cooling your mattress. The less space there is between the slats, the better the support. Slats are usually spaced 2 to 2.75 inches apart in platform beds.

The majority of slats are rigid, but some wooden slats are flexible to accommodate body and mattress weight. The slats are bowed outward, giving the bed some give. However, the mattress may feel firmer and be more durable with rigid slats.

Platform beds come in a variety of designs, including upholstered, with headboards and footboards, and with storage drawers. Platform beds are a practical choice for studios and small apartments because they frequently have storage, which saves room.

Additionally, the frames are offered in twin through king mattress sizes. A queen platform bed is a good option for shoppers looking for a flexible frame because it can fit in most bedrooms and can sleep two people.

Some platform beds have metal bed frames made of wrought iron or steel that have metal grids on the top. Some memory foam mattresses may experience more pressure from the metal grids, leading to decompression and early deterioration. Before buying a new mattress, we advise enquiring with the maker about the specifics of a bed base that will work with it.

Although particleboard or composite wood platform beds are less expensive, they are less durable. It might be wiser to purchase a solid wood platform bed if you want to make a long-term investment in a high-quality bed.

All mattress types, including latex, foam, and memory foam, are supported by platform beds. Platform beds can support innerspring mattresses, but box springs are the better choice for them.

Nevertheless, it is simple to locate some of the top mattresses for a platform bed with a little bit of research.

Pros And Cons Of A Platform Bed

The lack of a box spring or foundation makes platform beds a better investment, but their low profile may lead to problems like back and knee pain.

Pros:

  • Compatible with most mattress types
  • Value option
  • Modern look
  • Wide variety of styles
  • Commonly includes storage features

Cons:

  • Lower profile makes it difficult to get in and out of bed
  • Harder to move
  • Firmer surface may cause pressure points

What Is A Box Spring?

A box spring is a wooden box that contains a layer of springs and is lined with breathable fabric on top and dust-barrier fabric at the bottom. For better support, some box springs have a steel frame. For added height, box springs can be positioned either directly on the floor or on a bed frame. It also avoids sliding if you keep it on a bed frame.

The box spring’s coil layer encourages airflow. Your mattress’ springs add give and take the weight of your body.

Because the coils in the mattress’ top layer line up with the coils in the box spring, your mattress will be softer. Box springs are a popular choice for innerspring mattresses. Additionally, coils improve motion isolation and shock absorption.

While box springs are a perfect fit for innerspring mattresses, latex or memory foam mattresses cannot be supported by box springs. The coils could be broken by the weight of the mattress, resulting in sag and decreased support.

Pros And Cons Of A Box Spring

Although a box spring is lighter than a platform bed, its internal springs are more prone to damage.

Pros:

  • Coils promote cooling
  • More give
  • Shock absorption

Cons:

  • Noise potential
  • Less durable
  • Not compatible with most mattress types

Difference Between Platform Bed And Box Spring

Platform BedBox Spring
HighlightProvides support and breathabilitySprings absorb shock and offer bounce
Average Height6 to 18 inches25 inches
CompatibilityWorks with most mattress types (latex, hybrid, and memory foam mattresses)Works with innerspring mattresses
Storage SpaceYesNo
Price (Queen)$150 to $2000$100 to $500
Platform Bed VS Box Spring

Dimensions

The size and maker of your mattress will determine the dimensions of your platform bed or box spring.

Platform beds are much heavier than box springs in terms of weight, which might make it difficult to move around. Box spring beds are typically much heavier, though, if you include the weight of the bed frame as well as the box spring.

Price

Platform bed and box spring prices are largely influenced by the brand, material, and dimensions of each item. Typical prices for conventional box springs range from $100 to $500 (excluding the price of a bed frame).

Platform beds, on the other hand, can range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, but they don’t need any additional mattress accessories to be set up. Because they require fewer additional accessories, platform beds are typically more affordable.

Comfort

Platform beds and regular beds are contrasted. box spring comfort debate, both can enhance the comfort of your bed. However, it will depend on the kind of mattress you have.

If your mattress is an innerspring model, box springs can help make your bed more comfortable. They work with the coils in innerspring mattresses to:

  • Add support
  • Absorb body weight
  • Ease aches for people who sleep with back pain

Box springs, however, can trap heat and don’t work with other mattress types because they don’t have much airflow.

Platform beds, however, are ideal for all mattresses because they are permeable. A platform bed will keep you cool at night if you tend to sleep hot. The air is circulated throughout the mattress. When purchasing a platform bed, pay attention to the size of the slats and the space between them. You’ll have more support the more closely spaced the slats are from one another.

Storage Space

People who live in small spaces or require additional storage space frequently choose platform beds with built-in storage. To make the most of the space in your room, the storage drawers are located under the bed. Platform beds can also come with built-in bookcases for more storage.

There isn’t much room for storage with box springs. However, if your box spring is elevated above the floor, you can store things there.

Compatibility

Since a platform bed can hold most mattress types, including memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses, it is more compatible than a box spring. Mattresses with innersprings work best with box springs.

20. Platform Bed vs. Box Spring2

Do I Need A Foundation For My Mattress?

You need a foundation for your mattress regardless of the type of bed you select. To support your mattress, a foundation is placed on the floor or a bed frame. The top reasons you need one for your bed are:

  • To provide a level surface for you to sleep on – a foundation ensures that your mattress is on a flat surface, which is essential for your comfort and to help prevent back pain.
  • To protect your mattress – over time, regular use can cause your mattress to sag. The weight of you (and your partner) will be distributed evenly across the bed’s surface thanks to a foundation, which will help keep the bed from sagging too soon.
  • To increase the life of your mattress – a good foundation will also help keep your bed in good shape for longer by keeping it elevated and protected from dust, dirt, and other allergens.

A platform bed or a box spring can serve as a foundation, depending on your preferences.

Other Types Of Bed Bases

Choose either a bed foundation or an adjustable bed base to go with your mattress if the platform bed or box spring isn’t the right fit for you.

Mattress Foundations

Mattress foundations are wooden boxes with slats for added support that are covered in breathable fabric. They are comparable to platform beds without headboards, footboards, or storage. Either the floor or a bed frame are suitable places to put a mattress foundation. The most flexible choice is a foundation because they work with all varieties of mattresses. The slatted frame offers more support than give.

The solid pine wood slats that make up our Amerisleep Mattress Foundations are each enclosed in a non-slip covering. These sturdy mattress foundations can be put together quickly and without tools and start at $225 for a twin size.

Adjustable Bases

The head or feet can be raised at the desired angle on an adjustable base using a remote control for greater comfort. Our Amerisleep Adjustable Beds have opulent features like zero-gravity buttons, head and foot adjustments, and programmable presets, with a twin starting at $1800.

FAQs

Describe The Bunkie Board.

For better mattress support, a bunkie board is a piece of plywood that is frequently covered in fabric and positioned on top of a foundation. For mattress support and to stop the mattress from sliding, they can also be put on a platform bed, the floor, or box spring.

Why Isn’t A Box Spring Long-lasting?

Long-term use could cause the box springs’ fragile coils to break, causing sagging and increasing the likelihood of noise. Certain latex or memory foam mattresses can harm coils. We advise enquiring about the ideal bed base with mattress manufacturers.

Should I Opt For A Platform Bed Or A Box Spring?

The kind of mattress you have will also influence the answer to this query. In order to improve the comfort of your bed for a restful night’s sleep, a box spring would be a better option if you prefer a traditional innerspring mattress.

If you don’t mind a lower profile, platform beds, which work with all mattress types, are a good option. They are an affordable option because they combine the benefits of a bed frame and a foundation.

Conclusion

Popular options for a bed frame include platform beds and box springs. You should choose which is best for you by taking into account your needs and preferences as they each have different advantages and disadvantages. If you’re not sure, think about using Leesa’s 100-night trial to determine whether or not our mattresses are the best fit for you.