Box spring is one of the oldest yet most reliable mattress foundations out there. It can protect your mattress from getting saggy and make it comfortable to help you sleep better.
Also, it is an excellent option to go for if you want to make your bed taller. However, box spring height requires careful consideration. They’re available in different sizes, and choosing the right-sized one can be tricky!
In this article, we’ll discuss a few tips and tricks that will hopefully help you pick the right box spring for your mattress. So, let’s begin!
What Is A Box Spring? And Types Of Box Spring
Box springs are a mattress foundation that consists of a metal or wooden frame with coils inside. Some box springs also have slats, but they are best-suited for memory foam mattresses.
Moreover, box springs absorb shock, which helps in making your mattress last long.
A box spring can cost you anywhere from a hundred bucks to over several hundred dollars, but its price depends on its quality, size, and warranty.
We’ll recommend durable box springs over cheap ones because a premium-quality box spring can last for more than a decade.
In terms of size, there are two types of box springs, high profile box springs, and low profile box springs.
High Profile Box Springs
High-profile box springs are also known as the regular-sized box spring, and they are around 9 inches or 23 centimeters tall. You should get yourself a high-profile box spring if you have a short mattress or bed frame. They are also ideal if your nightstands are tall.
Low Profile Box Springs
Low-profile box springs are an excellent choice for people who have tall and bulky mattresses, as they make everything look even. These are usually 5 to 6 inches tall.
Box Spring Dimensions
Fortunately, box springs are available to buy in all standard mattress sizes. Their dimensions are similar to their equivalent mattresses, and that’s why you don’t need to have exact measurements before ordering a box spring.
Queen Size Box Spring Dimension
Queen-size is probably the most commonly used size of all time. A queen size box spring is 60 inches wide and 80 inches long.
Queen size mattresses and mattress foundations are ideal for individuals who want to sleep freely or for couples who don’t require much space. Some people also use them in their guest bedrooms.
These standard queen-size box spring dimensions also make it a perfect fit for small master bedrooms.
Twin Box Spring Dimensions
Twin-size mattresses and mattress supports are common in children’s bedrooms. However, young adults, especially the ones living on a budget, also prefer twin size.
Standard twin box spring dimensions are 38×74 inches. That’s why a twin size mattress can not accommodate more than one person.
Full-Size Box Spring Dimensions
If you have ever lived in a college dorm, then you must know the feeling of sleeping on a full-size mattress, as this size is mostly used in college dorms. However, some people also use it in their one-room apartment because it does not occupy much space.
It is nearly 54 inches wide and 75 inches long. This size is usually ideal if you live in a bedroom smaller than 10×10 feet.
King Size Box Spring Dimensions
Although king and queen-sized mattresses and mattresses supports are equal in length, they are not equal in width. A king-size mattress and box springs measure 76 inches horizontally and 80 inches vertically, making them suitable for big bedrooms.
Their large size makes them comfortable for couples. Being spacious, they’re ideal if the kids want to sleep on the bed with the parents.
Twin XL Size Box Spring Dimensions
If you are planning on buying a twin-size bed frame, it could be useful to size it up a bit and buy a twin XL instead. It is because the standard twin xl size is almost 38 inches wide and 80 inches long. So, it is 5 inches longer than the standard twin size.
Its extra length makes it a better choice for tall adults and growing teenagers.
California King Size Box Spring Dimensions
The California king size is the largest one among all six standard sizes. It is 72 inches wide and 83 inches long. Therefore, it is ideal for tall people. They’re also useful for people who have pets that like to sleep on the bed. There’s plenty of room if your dog wants to sleep near your feet!
However, beds of this size require a lot of space, make sure you have a spacious bedroom when choosing this mattress and bed size.
Tips And Tricks To Help You Determine Just The Right Box Spring Height For Your Bed
It is difficult to get a box spring of the right height, but here are a few tips and tricks that will make the determination process easy for you.
1. The Height Of Your Bed Frame And Mattress
Everything must look even if you want to enhance the appearance of your bedrooms. So, never pair a tall bed frame and mattress with a high-profile box spring. Similarly, avoid using a low-profile box spring with a high bed frame and mattress.
Some people also prefer keeping their mattress on the floor instead of a bed frame. If that’s the case for you, then you should consider buying a high-profile box spring to make your bed taller.
2. Age Of The Sleeper
If you are buying a box spring for your child, it should be low, as a high box spring will make it difficult for them to get out of their bed.
On the other hand, if you are buying a box spring for someone above the age of 50, make sure that it is high enough to make getting up easy for them.
3. Medical Conditions And Injuries
Consider buying a bunkie board instead of a box spring if you are injured or have a medical condition like arthritis because bunkie boards are firmer. However, it is better to consult a doctor and make your decision according to their suggestion.
4. The Headboard Of Your Bed Frame
Many bed frames do not have a high headboard. So, it won’t look good if you buy a high-profile box spring for such bed frames.
More Pointers On Selecting The Size Of Your Box Spring
There are a few things that you must consider before finalizing the size of your bed frame, mattress, and box springs. All of these things will cost you hundreds of dollars. Therefore, you must select them wisely!
1. Size Of Your Room
The size of your room plays a huge role when it comes to buying beds, as getting yourself the right-sized bed can increase the aesthetics of your room. Similarly, getting an oversized bed will ruin the look of your room.
Preferably, your bed should occupy no more than 40 percent of your total bedroom space.
For A 10×10 room
It’s better to choose a queen-size or full-size bed if you have a 10×10 feet room.
For A Room Smaller than 10×10
You should consider going for twin size or a twin XL size bed if your room is smaller than 10×10 feet.
For A 12×12 feet room
A king-size bed or California king-size bed will look excellent in bedrooms bigger than 12×12 feet.
2. Number Of People You Want To Accommodate
Another important thing that one must consider is the number of people they are sharing their bed with.
If you are buying a bed just for yourself, you should go for a full-size or a twin XL bed. You can also select a queen size if you require more space to sleep, but usually, queen-size beds are ideal for couples. King-size beds are another popular option to go for if you share your bed with someone.
3. Budget
The size of your mattress, bed frame, and box will affect on the price. If you are willing to spend more than a thousand dollars then you can go for king-size or California king-size.
However, you should go for queen-size or full-size if your budget is under a thousand bucks.
4. Should My Bed Be Lower Or Higher Than The Nightstands?
Ideally, your beds and nightstand should be on the same level, as it enhances the appearance and adds to the convenience.
However, it is tough to get both a bed and nightstands at the same height. So, your goal should be to get them as close as possible.
This is another reason it’s useful to opt for a low-profile box spring if you have a short mattress and go for a high-profile box spring if you have a tall mattress.
5. Is Full-Size Too Small For A Couple?
Some people make the mistake of opting for a full-size mattress to accommodate more than one person.
This can make you feel uncomfortable or tight while sleeping because full-size mattresses and box springs are ideal for single individuals. However, a couple will be unable to sleep through the night comfortably because a full-size bed is only 54 inches wide and 75 inches long.
Comparison Between Box Spring And Other Mattress Supports
Consider these mattress foundations if you think that box springs are not the best option for you.
1. Box Spring vs. Bunkie Boards
A Bunkie board is a thin barrier made of metal or steel that you can use as a box spring alternative. It is 1-3 inches thick, which means that it makes your bed firmer instead of making it softer. It is also a little cheaper than a box spring.
2. Box Spring vs. Plywoods
If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to box springs, plywoods could do the trick. Sure, they aren’t as durable as box springs, but they can make your bed firmer.
Most of the plywoods used for supporting mattresses are almost an inch thick.
3. Box Spring vs. Wooden Slats
Wooden slats are very similar to bunkie beds, but they are thinner and usually foldable. They can work fine on their own, but you can pair them up with box springs for extra support. Wooden slats tend to be far cheaper than box springs.
What Box Spring Height Is Perfect For Everyone?
Well, the perfect box spring height is different for every person, as it depends on how tall or short their mattress and bed frame are. Besides, it’s also a good idea to consider the age and health conditions of the sleeper. Ideally, you want a box spring with a comfortable height, and one that goes harmoniously with the home decor.