We spend 30% of our lives sleeping. It’s easy to see why it’s so important to choose bedding that’s tailored to each person’s body type. The mattress is often the focus of discussion when people are looking for a good night’s sleep. However, the box spring is also of paramount importance when it comes to bedding. In fact, while the mattress absorbs two-thirds of the body’s movements, the box spring handles the rest. In this sense, the mattress and box spring are inseparable. While there are several types of box springs, let’s focus on the slatted box spring. Ideal for foam or natural latex mattresses, this type is also divided into several categories.
Choosing a Mattress Base: Spring Mattress Bases and Slatted Mattress Bases
A box spring is not simply a base on which to place a mattress. Just like the mattress, the box spring contributes to the sleeper’s comfort. In addition, a high-quality box spring optimizes the mattress’s ventilation, making it last longer. Of course, the size of the box spring must match that of the mattress exactly. However, the box spring should extend at least 15 cm beyond the sleeper’s body. Two different types of box springs are available on the bedding market: box springs with springs and box springs with slats.
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The spring mattress base
A box spring offers benefits only if you have a spring mattress. In fact, the combination of the two provides excellent comfort. The box spring helps absorb motion and provides greater sleeping independence. While the spring mattress offers a blend of firmness and softness, the box spring provides additional support.
The number of springs affects sleep quality: the more springs a box spring has, the greater the comfort. Since a box spring with springs isn’t meant to be used with a spring mattress, its usefulness becomes less obvious. For foam or natural latex mattresses, it’s best to opt for a slatted bed frame.
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The Slatted Bed Base
The slatted bed frame dates back to the 1950s. Originally, this type of bed frame with wooden slats was used to relieve back pain. Bed frames weren’t as advanced back then! Invented by a Swiss doctor, it provided both flexibility and firmness. Over time, the slatted bed base has continued to be refined. Today, it offers unparalleled comfort and sleep quality.
Slats offer many advantages. They ensure optimal ventilation of the mattress, which limits the growth of bacteria and dust mites. Furthermore, the more the mattress breathes, the less likely it is to suffer from moisture buildup. In terms of hygiene, slats are easier to clean. This is particularly beneficial for people with dust mite or dust allergies. Finally, since the slatted bed frame is divided into two separate sections, couples enjoy greater sleep independence.
Today, slatted bed bases come in many different styles:
- the slatted frame, which is installed in a separate bed frame or bed base;
- the semi-basket-style slatted bed frame, which has two rounded corners and is designed to fit antique beds;
- the DIY slatted bed frame kit, which you assemble yourself;
- the decorative slatted bed frame with covered or exposed slats, available in a variety of finishes (fabric, wood, leather, etc.);
- the adjustable slatted bed base, which allows you to raise the backrest or the leg rest, either manually or electrically;
- The slatted bed base with storage compartment consists of a bed base and a storage compartment.
These types of box springs consist of either exposed slats or covered slats.
The slatted bed base with visible slats: fixed slats or flexible slats?
This model is the classic version of the slatted bed base. It is divided into two categories: fixed-slat bed bases and flexible-slat bed bases.
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The Fixed-Slats Mattress Base
As its name suggests, a fixed-slat bed base—or passive-slat bed base—consists of slats attached to the frame. These slats are thick and wide, making them straighter and therefore stiffer. This results in a firmer sleeping surface, which is particularly beneficial for those with back pain. This type of bed base is also recommended for heavier individuals or those who sleep on their backs. One of the main advantages of a fixed-slat bed base is its compatibility with all types of mattresses, including latex, foam, or innerspring.
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The Flexible Slat Bed Base
This model offers greater freedom of movement while sleeping. Also known as an “active” or “suspension” slatted bed base, the flexible slatted bed base is made from supple wood. Beech wood is generally preferred because it combines flexibility and strength. The slats are connected by fabric or thin wooden strips. They are then positioned on suspension systems that cushion movement. The flexible slatted bed frame offers more flexibility than a bed frame with fixed slats. It is ideal for a plush sleeping experience, for smaller individuals, and for those who sleep on their side. Finally, it stands out for its unbeatable value for money.
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The upholstered slatted bed frame, or upholstered bed frame
The covered slat base is simply covered with a fabric called “coutil.” One of its advantages is that it provides greater stability for the mattress. The mattress slides less against the fabric, offering additional comfort to people who move around a lot while sleeping. From an aesthetic standpoint, more designs and colors are available than with the version featuring exposed slats. Finally, the fact that the mattress does not come into direct contact with the slats helps the slats last longer. On the other hand, the mattress breathes less well because of the fabric, and the bed frame is harder to clean.
What selection criteria should be considered when choosing bed slats?
From the number of slats to whether or not it has legs, there are several features to consider when choosing the bed frame that's right for you.
- The composition of the slats: Solid wood slats are of higher quality than particleboard. The main types of wood used include beech, pine, and fir.
- The level of flexibility of the slats: Active slats are characterized by their flexibility. For greater firmness, choose fixed slats. Some box springs include additional support at key points along the body (neck, shoulders, pelvis, etc.).
- The number of slats: Models with the most slats provide the best comfort. This makes sense, since it allows for more precise body support. It also reduces the likelihood of the mattress sagging in certain areas. A good box spring has at least 13 slats, but we recommend choosing one with 16 or more.
- The presence of bed frame legs: Bed frame legs provide better stability for the entire mattress and bed frame assembly. In addition, the bedding is not affected by temperature fluctuations from the floor. Finally, the legs help ventilate the mattress, which protects it from moisture and dust mites.
You now have all the information you need to choose the bed slats that will provide you with optimal comfort and a better night's sleep.