When it comes to mattresses, most people know that you should replace your old one with a new mattress after a certain number of years.
According to Health Government, getting a good night's sleep on a fresh mattress is critical to your health and overall well-being. But what about your box spring or foundation? Is it time to buy those too?
The answer to that question is a little more complicated. Most mattress stores and retailers often tell shoppers that they must buy box springs when buying a new mattress. While this is generally advisable and probably a good idea, some exceptions exist. In some cases, you may be able to replace your old mattress without buying box springs.
Let's take a closer look at the different factors you need to consider when deciding whether or not to buy box springs when getting a new mattress.
What Is A Box Spring?
A boxspring is a support for your mattress and is typically constructed from a wooden frame covered in cloth with springs in the middle. It is usually built the same size as the platform beds it will support, and that’s why you can often buy a mattress along with a box spring as a set when you buy mattresses.
The boxsprings fulfils three needs:
-
To raise the mattress higher off the ground, so you’re not stuck in your bed like a turtle on its back
-
To absorb impact and reduce the wear on the mattress
-
To give the mattress a firm, flat surface to sit on.
These days, the word “boxspring” is somewhat of a misnomer because most don’t use springs. The term “foundation” is a more apt description. This has changed in the past decade or two. Until the early 2000s, most boxsprings used actual springs, but now they are mainly constructed with wooden slats or metal grids and storage space. [Source]
When Should I Replace My Box Springs or Foundation?
Your right mattress is one of the essential pieces of furniture in your home. Not only does it provide comfort and support, but it can also impact your health. A good night's sleep is crucial for everyone, so it's essential to ensure your mattress is in good condition.
One of your mattress's most important – but often overlooked – parts is the platform bed frame and box spring. If there is any damage or wear to your box spring or foundation, like cracks, tears, bowing, bending, or even creaking, it's time to buy a box spring for your metal bed frame. You can ruin a perfect mattress (and a perfect night's sleep) by setting it on a faulty mattress foundation. This holds for all types of modern mattresses, including a hybrid, memory foam, innerspring mattresses, and anything in-between foam.
Remember, not only do the mattress platform beds support your weight and that of potential spouses, kids, and pets, but also that of the mattress foam itself. As such, your foundation needs to be able to support hundreds, maybe even thousands, of pounds quickly.
Problems With A Damaged Or Old Box Springs Which Leads To Buy New:
If you have damaged box springs or mattress foundations, it's time to buy a new one. Box springs and foundations wear out over time and can no longer provide the necessary support for your mattress. If you have an old box spring or foundation, you might be experiencing some of the following problems:
Sagging:
Over time, box springs and foundations can sag due to the weight of the mattress and people sleeping on them. This will cause the mattress to sink in the middle and lead to back pain and other health problems.
Bowing:
Box springs and foundations can start to bow due to excessive weight or age. This will cause the edges of the bed to dip down lower than the centre, which is uncomfortable and dangerous as it can lead to falls.
Cracking:
Box springs and foundations can crack over time from repeated use or exposure to moisture, which can cause the bed's frame, leading to severe injuries.
Warping:
Warping occurs when the materials in a box spring or foundation start to bend out of shape, and this can cause the bed to feel uneven and uncomfortable when you sleep on it.
If you're experiencing problems with your box spring or foundation, it's time to buy new ones. A good rule of thumb is that if your box spring or foundation is more than 7 years old, it's probably time for a new one. However, this varies depending on how often you use your bed and how much weight is put on it.
Check Your Box Springs:
If you're not sure whether you need box springs or foundation, there are a few simple tests you can do on your old box spring:
-
You should first inspect your box spring or foundation for any damage, such as cracks, tears, or warping. If you see any damage, then it's time for a replacement.
-
The next thing you should do is test how sturdy your box spring or foundation is by trying to push down on one end and seeing how much force it takes before giving way. If it doesn't take much force at all before giving way, then it's time for a replacement of your old box spring.
-
Finally, you can try jumping up and down on your bed to see if there is any movement or if the frame feels weak. If there is any movement or the frame feels weak, it's time for a replacement. Find Out the Best Bed Buying Guide Here!
Should You Buy A New Box Spring When Buying A New Mattress?
When buying a brand new mattress, one of the most important decisions you'll make is whether or not to buy a new box spring.
Most mattress manufacturer recommends buying a new box spring when buying a mattress, and for most people, this is the correct answer. However, as with many things in life, the honest answer to this question is "it depends."
To help you decide whether or not you need a box spring, let's take a look at some of the factors you should consider:
-
The first thing to consider is how old your current box spring is. If it's more than 8 years old, it's probably time for a replacement.
-
The next thing to consider is how old your mattress is. If your mattress is over 8 years old, it might also be time for a replacement.
-
However, if your mattress is less than 8 years old and in good condition, there's no need to replace it just because you wanna getting a new one. Remember, replacing your mattress without replacing your box spring can be bad for your mattress and shorten its lifespan.
So what should you do? If your box spring is more than 8 years old or your mattress is more than eight years old, go ahead and replace them both simultaneously. But if your current box spring is in good condition and your mattress is less than eight years old, there's no need to replace them.
Ultimately, deciding whether to buy a new box spring when buying a mattress depends on several factors and the bed frame, so it's essential to assess your situation before making a decision.
FAQs
Now, let's answer some of the most frequently asked questions to understand more:
Can You Use Any Mattress On An Adjustable Base?
The short answer is YES! You can use any mattress on an adjustable base, but you may want to check with the manufacturer first to ensure your specific mattress is compatible with the adjustable base.
Can A Box Spring Be Reused With A New Mattress?
Yes, you can reuse your box spring with a new mattress! If you're using a platform bed, you don't even need a box spring. Make sure your old box spring is in good condition - no wear or damage - and it will work perfectly with your new mattress.
Do You Have To Buy A Box Spring With A New Mattress?
It depends on the mattress. Some new mattresses do not require or work well with most box springs, but others still do. The brands that recommend box springs usually only do so if a metal frame is used, and some mattresses suggest using a different type of bed frame or foundation altogether.
How Do You Know If You Need A New Box Spring?
If the fabric is torn or stained, or the springs don't bounce back like they used to and are not fixed to the bed frame, it's time for a new box spring. A worn-out box spring may cause backaches or reduced sleep quality, so don't wait - replace it today!
Does Box Spring Affect Mattress Comfort?
Absolutely! A bad box spring can turn even the most high-quality mattress into an uncomfortable sleeping surface and disturbed bed frame. If you're looking for a good night's sleep, invest in a supportive box spring.
Buy A New Mattress And Bed Frames At Crafted beds
Buying a mattress and box foundation together is a great way to save money on your purchase. If you're looking for a mattress shop online, we recommend checking out our official website CraftedBeds.co.uk.
At Crafted Beds, We have a wide selection of the most modern mattresses and bad to choose from, so you can find the perfect setup for your needs. So don't wait - shop today at crafted beds and ensure your sleep quality. We provide the best quality products and help you get a good night's sleep.
We hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're always happy to help!
