If you've already decided on the type of bed frame you want, you're halfway there. But now you need to choose the right type of mattress for your bed frame and your comfort.
In fact, the mattress and its box spring play complementary roles. Choosing a specific type of mattress allows youto soften or enhance the firmness of the box spring.
Because it contains springs, this type of box spring provides a sleeping surface that is, by definition, softer than, for example, a box spring with fixed slats.
But did you know that there are actually several types of box springs, and that each type has its own technical characteristics and, therefore, a different level of firmness? If you didn’t know that, that’s fine—because that’s exactly what we’ll be exploring here. We’ll also discuss which mattress to choose for your box spring.
The Different Types of Spring Mattress Bases
So this probably comes as no surprise to you: there are actually several types of spring mattress bases.
- The biconical spring mattress base consists of springs connected to one another across the entire sleeping surface by steel wires. This technology provides a firm sleeping surface, which is why the biconical spring mattress base is recommended for heavier individuals.
- The multi-coil spring mattress, on the other hand, consists of springs connected by a single steel wire that forms intertwined coils. This model offers uniform comfort, but as a result, it does not adapt to the varying pressures exerted by the body. Furthermore, this type of product does not provide independent sleeping zones.
- The pocket-spring box spring is the highest-performing model because it provides firm support that adapts to the pressure exerted by the body and is ideal for separate sleeping zones. In fact, just like a pocket-spring mattress, each spring acts independently since it is separate from the others.
Each model of box spring has its own characteristics. The box spring and mattress you choose should be consistent with your firmness preferences (soft, medium-firm, firm, very firm).
Finally, keep in mind that a box spring can be standard thickness, extra-thin (a thin profile that allows for a discreet installation), or trough-shaped to fit the mattress snugly into the frame. These factors, among others, determinethe thickness of the mattress you should choose.
Finally, a box spring can also be upholstered—that is, it can be covered with fabric either just around the frame (for aesthetic reasons) or over its entire surface. This does affect the bedding’s breathability and, therefore, the choice of mattress.
The pocket-spring mattress for a spring bed frame
Before we go any further with our explanation, let’s first take a closer look at pocket-spring mattress technology so you can better understand what follows.
A pocket spring mattress consists of springs that are individually encased in sealed pockets. This design allows each spring to operate independently, providing firmness tailored to the pressure applied to it, which gives the pocket spring mattress greater flexibility.
It therefore adapts to the sleeper’s body shape as well as to the specific body area it supports (soft under the neck, firm under the buttocks, etc.). In addition, it provides high-quality support that respects the body’s natural position, such as the alignment of the spine and the curvature of the neck.
Finally, there are several levels of firmness depending on the diameter and height of the springs used in the design of the mattress (or box spring). The density of the mattress is related to the type of box spring:
- For a bed base with biconical springs (very firm), it's best to choose a pocket-spring mattress of medium firmness for a softer sleeping surface;
- For a multi-coil spring mattress base that provides consistent comfort, the mattress must first and foremost have the right level of firmness for the sleeper’s body type, since this type of mattress base cannot be adjusted;
- For a pocket-spring box spring, you should choose a fairly firm mattress, because the box spring and mattress conform to the pressure applied, which can make the bed too soft if the mattress isn't dense enough.
Regardless of whether the box spring is upholstered or not, a pocket-spring mattress promotes good ventilation, but an unupholstered model is always better.
The Natural Latex Mattress for a Spring Box Spring
Natural latex mattresses have the incredible quality of being flexible, which allows them to be firm while still providing soft support for the body and, therefore, greater comfort during sleep. For this reason, natural latex mattresses are suitable for all types of box springs.
It's worth noting that a natural latex mattress is designed to offer different levels of firmness depending on the area of the body. Some models feature a sleeping surface with up to 7 different comfort zones.
Pocket-spring mattresses and natural latex mattresses—these two options are comparable in several ways, including comfort and adjustable firmness.
Nevertheless, a latex mattress is still healthier than a pocket-spring model. In fact, it is manufactured in accordance with strict organic standards in order to qualify for the “natural product” certification (such as Eurolatex).
Therefore, 100% natural latex should not be confused with synthetic latex, which undergoes chemical treatments (just like box springs or spring mattresses).
That's why we believe a latex mattress is the best choice for a box spring. Plus, you don't have to worry about finding the right density based on the type of springs in the box spring!
After reading the above, you may be wondering why foam mattresses weren’t mentioned. Let’s wrap up our guide with a few words about this type of mattress. In our opinion, foam mattresses should be avoided when used with a spring box spring—and even more so if it’s an upholstered one.
In fact, foam mattresses lack breathability due to the density of the foam they’re made of. A lack of ventilation has consequences:
- moisture in bedding and in the ambient air;
- stains and mold growth on the mattress;
- the spread of dust mites and other nasty critters, such as bed bugs;
- irritation of the throat and nose;
- etc.
In addition, a foam mattress is generally quite firm. When paired with a bed base featuring biconical or multi-coil springs, it would make your sleeping surface too hard, which would be harmful to your body and the quality of your sleep.
Combining it with a pocket-spring mattress is the "least bad" option, in that the individual springs would partially (though not sufficiently) offset the firmness of the foam. Furthermore, you would lose all the benefits of having pocket springs.