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Most modern mattresses don’t really need a box spring anymore but a lot of people still use them, either out of necessity or force of habit. As with most furniture that get a lot of use, box springs can and will give out over time but just how long do they last? Let’s find out.
Do box springs wear out and how long do they last?
All box springs wear out over time but with proper use and care they can last for up to 8 to 10 years.
The traditional box spring is usually used as an additional mattress foundation for innerspring mattresses or mattresses that contain steel springs. But the innerspring and hybrid mattresses of today can be used with just a bed frame (such as a wooden frame with wooden slats) and don’t really require a box spring anymore – although you can still use one if you prefer.
Box springs come in different types such as the standard box spring, the low profile box spring as well as a smart box spring. The smart box spring is normally paired with a smart bed that also requires the use of an adjustable base.
No matter the box spring type, they all contain a metal grid within them that acts as as a foundation while also giving additional support.
Signs that it’s time to replace your box spring
It’s quite easy to be able to tell when it’s time to replace your box spring and we’ve listed them all down for you. Don’t wait until your box spring is on its last legs as doing so may greatly affect the quality of your sleep.
Squeaking
Squeaking is the first and most obvious telltale sign that it’s time to get a new box spring. First of all, you need to ensure that the squeaking is coming from the actual springs and not the bed frame or the mattress (and yes, mattresses can squeak which if they do, it’s also time to replace them).
The sound that metal springs make is unmistakable and they will only get worse with time. Squeaky box springs means that coils have worn down and gotten loose and there’s no repairing that – unless you want to replace the springs themselves, which in that case, you might as well just buy a new box spring.
Sagging
Just like with sagging mattresses, box springs can start to sag with time and use. Sagging does not necessarily mean that you’ve got poor quality box springs but if the sagging happens well before the box springs’ lifespan has run its course, many manufacturers have warranties in place so you could replace them.
Remember, if you continue to use a box spring that has begun to sag, the support system of your entire foundation may be compromised which in turn can cause back issues for yourself as well as whoever lays on the bed.
Damage to the steel grid
Damages to the steel grid of your box springs can stem from either normal wear or improper use. Once the damage is done, however, it is imperative that you replace your box springs immediately since coils may begin to stick out through its fabric covering and cause damage to both your mattress and yourself.
Age of the box spring
As we’ve mentioned previously, box springs have a lifespan of around 8-10 years and if you’ve had them for that long, normal wear and tear can cause your box springs to exhibit all or some of the signs mentioned above.
Alternatives to new box springs
You may want to shift to another type of foundation other than a box spring. Most foundations provide adequate support for most types of mattresses, be it memory foam mattresses, innersprings, hybrids and even adjustable mattresses.
Keep in mind that the bed frame or foundation that you choose needs to be compatible with both the size and type of your mattress.
Let’s take a look at some of the best box spring alternatives.
Platform bed
Platform beds offer a solid foundation for most modern mattresses but especially for all-foam beds. Some platform beds even have storage drawers built-in underneath which could be convenient especially if you need extra storage.
Adjustable bed
Used in conjunction with adjustable mattresses, an adjustable bed or base is designed to work seamlessly with a smart bed, allowing it to be used to its full potential. Different types of smart beds have different types of features but make sure to get an adjustable bed base that works with your own.
Slats
Bed slats can either be made from wood or metal but you can use wooden slats with any type of bed frame, even a metal frame. They provide extra support for most mattresses but especially a hybrid mattress, which contains both foam and innerspring coils.
Bunkie boards
Bunkie boards provide support as well as a firm surface for your mattress to lay on but we usually suggest using bunkie boards as an additional form of support to your bed frame, should it need some extra support. Bunkie boards, especially ones made from thin plywood, won’t be able to provide a strong enough base for a heavier type of mattress as well as a heavier-set sleeper.
FAQs
The average lifespan of a box spring is around 8-10 years and with proper use and care, you can replace it within that amount of time. Should it exhibit any signs of squeaking, sagging or damages before its lifespan, you may need to replace it.
You can certainly use an old box spring with a new mattress as long as the box spring is still in a good, usable condition. But make sure that your new mattress can be used with a box spring.
Old box springs can not only cause temporary back pain but other health issues as well. Continued use of a worn out box spring can affect the quality of your sleep. Damaged box springs can even be dangerous to use because the metal springs may begin to poke out.
Like most furniture that is meant to be used daily, box springs can definitely wear out with time and use. If you feel that your box spring is on its last legs, it might be time for a replacement.
You can repurpose your old or broken box spring as a shelving unit, a garden wall hanging or storage drawers, to name a few. Or you can have it sent to a recycling center for proper handling and recycling. Never dispose of a broken box spring improperly.
Conclusion
Like with most furniture that’s meant to be used on a daily basis, box springs can wear out with time and use.
You can either replace them with a new box spring or you can opt for a box spring alternative such as bed frames and other bed foundations.
You can also repurpose your old or broken box springs with a few simple, DIY projects that can give your old box springs a new lease on life.
Check out our list of the best box springs for a heavy person for durable picks that last longer than average.
Next step: Read our guide to the best box spring for a memory foam mattress. Foam mattresses need more support than other types, so you need to make sure that you choose the right box spring. We rounded up the top brands so you can decide for yourself which one is best for you.
Michelline loves nothing more than a cozy bed, with a stack of books at her side. She loves getting lost when she travels, can bake an entire British afternoon tea from scratch, is obsessed with all things analogue and does calligraphy on the side. She currently suffers from mild insomnia and is more than happy to be your guinea pig, so you won’t have to go through all the trouble of finding out what works best for you.
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