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If your current bed frame calls for a box spring and you are undecided on whether to get standard box springs or a low profile box spring, then look no further. We tested out both types and uncovered the pros and cons of each. Read on to find out whether a low profile or a traditional box spring is best for you.
Types of Box Springs
Generally, there are two types of box springs available on the market. These are:
- Low profile box spring – Low profile box springs are box springs that typically measure around 5 to 5 and half inches tall. They do not provide much height but can still offer strong support for your mattress.
- Standard box spring – Standard box springs usually measure about 7-9 inches tall and when used with a thicker mattress can make a bed taller.
What is the difference between a low profile box spring and a standard box spring?
Aside from the height difference, there really isn’t any other difference between a low profile box spring and a standard box spring. No matter the height, the feel of a mattress on a box spring will be the same. They would still offer the same support.
Traditional box springs act as a mattress foundation for bed frames that require their use to be properly supported. Bed frames nowadays don’t typically require the use of box springs anymore because some, like platform beds, already offer a solid foundation for a mattress.
But there are still quite a few people who would prefer using box springs as a means of extra support as well as those who would like to raise the height profiles of their beds.
In general, taller people need a tall bed and there are also some who just prefer sleeping higher. This is where we suggest the use of box springs, instead of changing your entire sleeping setup. On the same vein, low profile box springs lowers a bed’s height profile and are a good choice for older people who may have trouble getting in and out of bed, young children and those who just prefer a lower bed.
There is no such thing as the perfect box spring as it all depends on your bed frame, mattress type and general preferences. The right box spring for you is the one that can offer enough support for both you and your mattress.
Low profile box springs are best for:
- Older people
- Children
- Those who prefer a low bed
- Those who suffer from certain health issues such as chronic pain
Standard box springs are best for:
- Taller people
- Those who prefer a higher bed
What mattress types need a box spring?
However, not all mattress types work with a box spring. Innerspring mattresses are usually the best mattresses that can be paired with a box spring. A traditional model innerspring mattress contains a set of springs as its primary support system, much like a regular box spring.
All-foam mattresses like memory foam mattresses are not recommended for use with a box spring. Foam mattresses, especially the newer models that the mattress industry keeps churning out, are made with thicker layers, are heavier and require a more even, solid foundation. They can be too much weight for your new box spring to handle. Some brands even void their mattress warranty if they find that you have used the mattress with any type of box spring. It is important to read the fine print if you want to pair your current mattress with a box spring.
On the middle end of the spectrum are hybrid mattresses. A hybrid mattress is a cross between a traditional innerspring mattress and an all-foam bed. Usually containing a coil support system with foam comfort layers and a solid, polyfoam base, a hybrid mattress is the perfect marriage of springs and foam and can typically be used with a box spring, even though they can also be used without. In my opinion, this is the best mattress type to pair with a box spring if you prefer to use one.
But as we’ve mentioned, the modern mattress of today, be it spring or foam, don’t usually need a box spring but can still be used with one if you so prefer. Just always make sure to thoroughly read the warranty.
What kind of bed frame needs a box spring?
Bed frames that require the use of a box spring can be made from any material, from metal to wood. We have found that a wooden frame is inherently stronger and sturdier than metal bed frames as wooden frames are made out of much hardier wood. They also won’t creak as much as metal frames when used with a box spring.
A platform bed can be used with a box spring but don’t typically need one. A split box spring is used with split type mattresses such as a Split King size.
Box springs cannot be used with an adjustable bed. And no, a decorative headboard will not affect or hinder the performance of a box spring.
FAQs
A box spring is a bed support used on top or within a bed frame. Box springs consist of a metal or wooden frame with a spring coil base and are usually covered with a thick fabric as protection.
Box springs can make a bed feel bouncier and more responsive.
Modern style mattresses usually do not require the use and support of a box spring since they are nowadays made to be able to stand alone.
A memory foam mattress does not need the support of a box spring as most all-foam mattresses need a more solid surface.
Smart box springs are a type of bed frame made by some mattress brands that have a built-in box spring within the frame. They can come as a low profile box spring or as a traditional box spring of standard height.
Bed height can affect one’s sleep habits depending on their age, weight, lifestyle and health issues. For example, a heavier person may have trouble getting in and out of bed or even getting a good night’s sleep if using a low profile box spring.
If your box spring is literally on its last legs, you can dispose of it as you would an old mattress. Some mattress brands offer a removal service if you purchase an entirely new mattress set with them.
Tight interior spaces are not influenced by the use of low profile box springs or any height of box spring for that matter. Bed dimensions, however, do.
Conclusion
It is a matter of choice and preference when it comes to choosing the right height profile if you’re on the market for a box spring.
Depending on age, weight, lifestyle preferences, health issues and even aesthetic preferences, a low profile box spring or a standard box spring will still offer the same responsive support.
Next step: Now that you know the difference between standard and low profile box springs, it’s time to make a decision. We think that the Zinus box spring is the best choice for people who want an affordable box spring that will hold up for years to come.
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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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