Do you have an old box spring that’s been in use for years? That likely merits the question – do box springs wear out?.
So, let us tell you that, yes, box springs do wear out over time. They can cause you a great deal of discomfort despite having a reputation for being the most sturdy mattress base.
Identifying problems in box springs isn’t easy, as they have a solid structure. That is why many people end up changing their perfect mattresses instead of replacing their faulty box springs.
To help you avoid making this mistake, we have put together a list of red flags that can tell if it is time for you to replace your box spring with a new one. So, let’s get started!
The Structure Of A Box Spring
Before we get to identifying problems, it is important to understand the composition of a box spring. This will enable us to get a better look at the problems a box spring may have.
1. Frame
The outermost part of a box spring is called its frame. It is usually made of wood, but some box springs also have metal frames. If you are opting for a box spring with a wooden frame, make sure the wood is of the best quality. Otherwise, the frame will decay within 2-3 years.
2. Metal Coils
The interior of a box spring is composed of big or small metal coils. They are the main components of the box spring. So, the better the metal coils are, the longer your box spring will last.
3. Steel Grids
Steel grids provide additional support to your mattress. They help distribute the mattress weight equally, but they bend over time.
4. Cover
The box springs are covered with a thick cotton fabric, which acts as a barrier and protects the interior metal parts. These covers are vulnerable to wear and tear, but replacing them is very easy and cost-efficient.
The Purpose Of A Box Spring
Box springs are affordable mattress bases, and their purpose is to provide support and add height to your mattress. They also increase the life of mattresses by absorbing shock and reducing wear.
You can either put a box spring on top of your bed frame or put it on the ground and use it on its own.
How To Tell If Your Box Spring Is Worn Out
As we know, it isn’t easy to determine if the problem lies on your mattress or your mattress base without separating them from one another.
So, it’s better to remove your mattress from the top of your box spring and examine both of these things separately. Here is how you can check the box spring.
1. Visual Examination
First off, take a look at your box spring. Does it appear to be saggy from somewhere, or are any of its slats or coils broken?
If you spot any of these problems, it is better for you to get yourself a new box spring, as your current one will only cause you discomfort.
2. Jump Around
If a visual inspection doesn’t show obvious results, it’s time to take a more hands-on, rather, legs-on approach! Lay and jump on your box spring to see if it makes squeaky noises. If it does, it means that its metal coils have worn out, and it is time to get a new box spring.
3. Bent Steel Grids
Steel grids are the main supporting grids of your box springs, and they can bend easily due to added pressure. Unfortunately, there is no way to reverse bent steel grids. Therefore, replacing the box spring is the only solution.
4. Is The Box Spring Past Its Age?
Most box springs are meant to last for a decade. So, take a moment to think about the amount of time it has passed since you first started using your box spring.
If it has been more than ten years, then it means that your box spring has already expired, and it might be time to let go of the old box spring.
How Long Do Box Springs Last?
The life expectancy of a box spring depends on its quality. Generally, the life of most box springs is 8-10 years. However, the life of each of its components is different. So, let’s see how long each of its parts last.
1. The Box Spring Frame Life
Your box spring will either have a wooden frame or a metallic frame. If the frame is metallic, you can expect it to remain in good shape for 10-20 years, but exposure to moisture may shorten its life.
However, wooden frames typically last for no more than 5-10 years, and that too if they are of good-quality wood. Low-quality plywood frames, or engineered wood frames risk going out in 2-4 years because they are more prone to fungal growth and accidental damage.
2. Metal Coils
The metal coils are where the magic and fun of the box springs happens. Box springs with low-quality metal coils will barely last 5 years, whereas those with high-quality metal coils can survive for more than a decade.
3. Life Expectancy Of Steel Grids
The life expectancy of steel grids depends on your usage and the thickness of the steel grids. You see, the job of steel grids is to divide pressure and provide balance to your mattress. So, extra pressure may shorten their life span.
4. Cover
Most box spring manufactures make sure to use good quality fabric in their box spring covers, and often, it can last for a decade. However, it’s best not to continuously remove the cover for washing and/or cleaning. It’s best to take the spot-clean route and clean it with a damp cloth or sponge after every few months.
Ready For A Change? Here Are Some Of The Best Box Springs You Can Buy!
1. Amazon Basics Smart Box Spring
Amazon Basics Smart Box Spring features a steel frame and slats for increased support and durability. It includes a 2-piece removable and washable fabric cover.
This box spring is relatively easy to assemble, and it measures 5 inches in height, 74 inches in length, and 53 inches in width. It also has an affordable price.
2. ZINUS Metal Smart Box Spring
Zinus is one of the bestselling box spring brands, and the Zinus Box Spring we are listing here is made of high-quality steel. This 9 inches tall box spring can bear up to 700 lbs, and it comes with a 5-year warranty.
Plus, its compact box includes all the tools and nuts that you’ll require to put it together.
3. Amazon Basics Foldable Box Spring
Some people prefer their beds without a bed frame, and the AmazonBasics Foldable Spring Box is a good option for such folks. This steel box spring features tiny wooden legs that eliminate the need for a bed frame. It is also foldable, and this feature helps in saving extra space at times.
The downside to the Amazon Basics Foldable Box Spring is that its legs tend to slip on smooth surfaces, but you can control that using a rug or stoppers.
4. Spinal Solution Standard Box Spring
If you struggle with putting things together, the Spinal Solution Standard Box Spring is the best option for you, as it does not require any assembly.
It has a high-quality lumber wood frame, which is lightweight yet durable. This box spring measures 8 inches in height, and it works well with all mattresses.
5. Zinus Keenan Free Standing Smart Box Spring
The features of Zinus Keenan Free Standing Smart Box Spring are comparable to that of Amazon Basics Foldable Box Spring, but this one has a tad bit better quality.
It has a sturdy steel structure, and it measures 14 inches in height due to its tiny wooden legs.
Tips To Increase The Lifespan Of Your New Box Spring
There are a few tips and tricks that you can use to make your box spring last longer, and we are listing some of them here.
1. Avoid Eating And Drinking In Your Bed
Everyone has the habit of having a snack in their beds, but overdoing it increases the chances of accidental spills and allows extra crumbs to sneak into mattresses and mattress bases. It promotes bacterial and fungal growth, which shortens the life of mattresses and box springs.
2. Rotating Your Box Spring
It is highly recommended to rotate your mattress and box spring 180 degrees after every 4-6 months to avoid sagging and damage.
3. Cleaning The Cover
Cleaning and vacuuming your box spring cover every few months reduces the risk of damage to the internal metallic parts.
4. Not Putting Extra Weight And Pressure On It
You must check out the weight capacity of your box spring before buying and never put extra weight or pressure on it to prevent its steel grid from bending and its coils from getting damaged.
Should I Replace My Mattress Or My Box Spring?
Sometimes, box springs get ignored even if they turn old. So do box springs wear out? Yes, and as we see in this article, they contain several parts that can wear out.
Many people end up replacing their mattresses instead of their box springs when they hear squeaky sounds and face discomfort at night. It is a mistake, as the problem could be with the box spring.
Therefore, if you notice a problem while sleeping or in comfort, separate the mattress from the box spring and check each of them thoroughly.