What is a box spring bed? Explanation of the advantages and disadvantages

Boxspring beds are often also referred to as continental beds or American beds and are an alternative to the classic beds we are more familiar with. To understand what a boxspring bed actually is, you should take a closer look at the structure of this bed. We will reveal this to you in our guide below.

The setup: Box, mattress, and topper

Typically, a box spring bed consists of three sleeping components that enable an ideal interaction. These are: a base box with under-springing, mattress, Topper, and optionally a back support or headboard. Elegant bed legs further enhance the design.

The term Boxspring can roughly be translated as 'spring box' or 'coil spring box'. This designation describes the sprung base with padding and bed frame of this type of bed. Here, the Boxspring replaces the traditional slatted frame that you would otherwise use.

It provides the suspension of the bed. The box or base frame of a high-quality box spring bed almost always consists of a solid wood frame that surrounds the suspension and is covered with fabric.

The bed is usually set on legs up to 20 cm high to allow optimal air circulation. Bonnell springs (coil springs or pocket springs) are often used for the suspension of this variant.

You can use most mattresses for a box spring bed: ideally, those with Bonnell spring cores, pocket spring cores, or cold foam. The dimensions of the mattress must naturally be adapted to the base bed to ensure maximum sleep quality.

The firmness of the mattress varies slightly depending on the manufacturer and depends on your personal preferences. The topper forms the final layer of the box spring bed. It enhances the comfort of lying down and protects the mattress. Often, this mattress topper is made of latex, cold foam, or memory foam.

The combination of these features of the box spring is ideal for your spine and a healthy sleeping climate. However, it is best to inquire more about the models before your purchase, so that you only consider the best options with the ideal lower and upper mattress.

These variants are available for purchase:

We often receive the question: "Are there different versions?" Yes! There are two different versions of the box spring bed: the American and the Scandinavian box spring bed.

This definition applies: American box spring beds do not have a topper, which can sometimes compromise comfort. Thus, you lie directly on the mattress with springs or foam. In contrast, in the Scandinavian sleep system, you sleep on the topper.

This prevents the gap between mattresses in a double bed and creates a continuous sleeping surface. That is very valuable! Moreover, it protects the mattress underneath from external factors such as dirt and moisture. It extends the lifespan of your box spring bed.

Other distinguishing features include the firmness levels of the innerspring mattress, which are determined based on weight, and the size.

These are the advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages

• Box spring beds are beds of extremely high quality and, thanks to their spring core box, particularly stable and durable for individuals. 

• The bed offers the additional advantage of elevated sleeping comfort and adapts to your individual requirements when the box, mattress, and topper are chosen correctly. 

• It is particularly gentle on the back in every sleeping position. It also offers high sleeping comfort for people with back problems. 

• The comfortable height of the bed facilitates getting in and out. It is particularly ideal for the sleeping habits of older or frail individuals. 

• Since your body weight is well distributed while lying down, the mattress on the bed frame does not wear out quickly and guarantees durability. Thus, the box spring bed remains comfortable and stable for a long time. 

• Box spring beds are distinguished by their elegant design and unique appearance. Depending on the manufacturer, the box is covered with fabric or leather. You can find models in many different designs and styles to beautify any bedroom. 

• The high-quality and breathable material of the box spring mattress and the topper are generally also very suitable for allergy sufferers.

• For double beds with two mattresses, you can adjust the bed in the wooden frame individually for both sleepers, thus creating the best possible sleeping comfort.

Disadvantages

• Box spring beds with layers are usually not very inexpensive. This is naturally due to the high quality and complex structure of the bed. 

• Cleaning the fabric covers of the box and the cushion is often not the easiest, as the cover usually cannot be removed and must be thoroughly cleaned by hand.

• You often need a special fitted sheet. The purchase is often also not inexpensive, as it must have a generous height in this case.

Who are box spring beds suitable for? 

In short: Box spring beds with storage compartments or other storage options are suitable for every body type, as the spring core boxes with toppers and various firmness levels cater to all sleeping needs!

They are the perfect choice for you if you suffer from back problems, are allergic, prefer a comfort height, or are looking for a model for specific body or weight types. When selecting, tailor the base frame, mattress, and topper individually to your needs. Additionally, the edge is often comfortably soft because the base is padded.

This ensures that the box spring bed provides a healthy and restful sleep. Each layer should be adapted to the other. The slightly higher price is also worth it, as you are investing in good sleep in the long term. So, if you value a particularly good sleeping experience, they are the first choice. By the way: The use of slatted frames is not necessary.

Do you have questions about the models or individual components? Then contact us for a consultation. We will help you so that in the future you can enjoy a unique lying experience with maximum style in your bed. Additionally, getting in and out is also particularly luxurious.

If you know what you are looking for, you can also perform a direct comparison in the online store. Find your bed with a Bonell box spring mattress in a promotion with a discount today on our site or in the Furniture Outlet!

Discover a trend with us that makes a difference in the bedroom and creates a special effect. Often, even the shipping costs are waived for offers like our beds, which were invented in Scandinavia and the United States.