25 Bed Frames You Can Use Without a Box Spring [Buyer Guide 2024]
In the world of bedding, innovation is constant. The landscape is ever-evolving, constantly adapting to deliver improved comfort, convenience, and aesthetic appeal. One such recent innovation is the rise of bed frames that don’t require a box spring.
No longer do you have to fuss about with bulky, cumbersome box springs to complete your bed setup. Welcome to the era of convenience and minimalism without compromising comfort.
These game-changing bed frames offer numerous benefits, from cost-effectiveness and easier setup to more creative bedroom design possibilities. Bed frames that bypass the need for a box spring create a modern, streamlined aesthetic and offer extra storage space – a much sought-after advantage in today’s urban living.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of box spring-free platform bed frames. We’ll explore their unique advantages, examine the various types available, and guide you through selecting the perfect model to match your individual needs and preferences.
What Is a Box Spring?
As the name suggests, a box spring is a box that is the same size as a mattress. The box is made of a wooden or metal frame, and a fabric encases the box. You will find springs inside the box, which are evenly spaced and fill the interior of the box frame. A box spring gives additional support to your mattress.
Box springs go underneath a mattress and on top of the bed frame. Box springs absorb the shock from any movement on the mattress. By absorbing repeated movements, a box spring can extend the life of a mattress.
The use of box springs is less widespread than it once was. In the past, mattresses were much thinner and had an innerspring design. Mattress manufacturers would recommend a box spring to support the mattress. The newer foam and latex mattresses can absorb movement and are much more durable.
Why Is a Box Spring Important?
Humans spend a great deal of time sleeping, so it is essential to have the best sleep environment possible. You should invest in a quality mattress and linens, but you also need to consider whether you need a box spring.
A box spring will add height to your bed. A higher bed makes climbing in and out of bed much more manageable for some, and the extra height may deter your four-legged friends from napping in your bed.
Adding a box spring under your mattress increases the level of sturdiness. The extra frame and springs add a solid foundation to your bed, allowing your mattress to rest on a flat surface. The box spring will stop your mattress from sagging in areas where there may be extra weight.
The box spring allows for an extra layer of protection. You may have children or pets that jump on the bed, which can cause bed slats to break. Your box spring will help protect your bed frame.
A box spring contributes to better ventilation. People get very hot when they sleep, and moisture can get trapped in the mattress. The air can flow freely through the box spring and around your bed.
Some mattress warranties require the use of a box spring. If you are investing in a new mattress, you must follow the manufacturer’s recommendation so you get the best results from your mattress. The recommendations will help ensure your mattress’s longevity.
Can You Put Mattress on a Bed Frame Without a Box Spring?
See 7 of the best mattresses to use without a box spring here
You can use a mattress without a box spring, but it is crucial to have another form of support. In the past, a box spring was a must with coil spring mattresses, and the box spring helped with shock absorption. Today, they design mattresses that do not require a box spring.
A box spring can damage certain types of mattresses. Please read the manufacturer’s recommendations for a foundation to get the best results from your bed.
Some people prefer the convenience of having their mattresses directly on the floor. The floor will support the mattress, but repeated movement will cause your mattress to wear more quickly than when paired with a box spring or other foundation.
What Kinds of Mattresses Can Be Used on a Bed Frame Without a Box Spring?
Some people prefer a stylish alternative to a box spring. Your ultimate goal is a great night’s sleep, so you may have to research the type of mattress that will work with your chosen foundation.
The most popular choices are foam and latex mattresses. These newer mattresses do not require a box spring. You can use either of these mattresses without a box spring but must choose something for the bed’s foundation. Foam and latex mattresses require rigid support.
Manufacturers construct foam mattresses with several layers of foam, and these thick layers offer great comfort and support. Foam mattresses are an excellent option for couples. The foam does not transfer movement, so you will not wake your partner if you are restless.
You can also invest in a memory foam mattress that goes one step further in providing the ultimate comfort. These excellent quality mattresses will contour to your body and sleep position guaranteeing the most restful nights you have ever had.
It would be best if you used a foundation bed under your foam mattress for the best results. These beds are similar to box springs but do not have coils or springs, and a foundation bed offers the support that a foam mattress needs.
You can also use a latex mattress without a box spring. Manufacturers construct latex mattresses with foam and latex layers nearer the top. Latex mattresses are more responsive to movement, and they tend to have more bounce.
You can use a foundation or platform bed to support a latex mattress.
You can also choose a hybrid mattress. These mattresses have foam and coils and usually work best with a slatted platform frame.
What Types of Bed Frames Do You Need To Use for a Mattress Without a Box Spring?
You must choose the right bed frame to avoid investing in a box spring. It would be best if you chose a foundation to give your mattress the proper support. You will need a bed frame to support you without a box spring, and a few bed frames will support your mattress without a box spring.
Collapsible metal frames are a convenient choice because they are easy to move. Unfortunately, they only support the perimeter of your mattress. You should opt for a reinforced metal frame that has metal supports across the frame.
These metal supports help distribute the weight evenly across the frame, and the added supports will stop the mattress from sagging.
A popular choice is a solid platform bed frame. The solid platform is made from wood, metal, plastic, or composite material, providing a sturdy foundation for your mattress. Platform bed frames with a mattress are typically lower than a box spring and mattress.
You can also choose a platform bed frame with slats. These bed frames have slats for support rather than a solid platform. The slats must be close enough to support your mattress, and the slats should not be more than 4″ apart.
The slats in a platform bed frame can be made from wood, metal, plastic, or composite. Steel slats are the strongest of all the materials if you are looking for solid support.
Many mattress warranties require a specific gap between the slats, so you should check to ensure that your warranty will be honored.
You can also choose an adjustable bed frame. You will not need a box spring when you have an adjustable bed frame. These bed frames allow the sleeper to adjust the height and angle of their mattress, reducing stress on the back, internal organs, and respiratory system.
An adjustable bed frame may not work well with a mattress with traditional inner springs as they do not bend properly. These frames are an excellent choice for foam, hybrid or latex mattresses.
25 Bed Frames To Use Without a Box Spring
1. The “Noise Free” Platform Bed by Puffy
Editor’s Pick
What our testers are saying:
This puffy platform bed is one of the most popular beds on the market right now. The competitive price point combined with the luxurious and sturdy structural design make it a great all around option. The bed comes with built in bed slats that sit a few inches below the rails, allowing for a snug fit that won’t cause your mattress to move or slip from side to side. Simply put your mattress directly on the bed slat platform without the use of a box spring.
What Customers love: Designed to be quiet and squeak-free. Has built in soft cushioned headboard. Inset platform cradles the mattress to prevent movement.
2. The Solid Wood Platform Bed by Birchboards (multiple colors)
What our testers are saying:
This Birchboard platform bed is one of the best value bed frames on the market. The frame is extremely well built and has a solid and sturdy support structure. The exterior comes in a variety of different stains and finishes to match any style or bedroom. This frame is very popular and can often be out of stock. If you see a color you like in stock we recommend buying it before it goes out of stock again. Easy 10 minute assembly with no additional tools required.
The price is also unbeatable for the quality. The heavy duty center support legs coupled with the thick bed slats mean this bed isn’t budging an inch. Many of our employees have purchased their bed frame for their own homes and absolutely love it. It is also a platform bed, so you can put your mattress directly on the frame without the need for a box spring.
What Customers love: An affordable and sturdy wooden platform frame. Heavy duty center support. Multiple colors.
3. The Sturdy Steel Foundation by Bedtek (optional headboard)
What our testers are saying:
This Sturdy platform foundation comes from the trusted Bedtek brand. The foundation has metal slats and does NOT require a box spring, meaning you can put your mattress directly on it. Not only does it hold over 1,000lbs, it also has 15″ of storage room underneath and comes with headboard brackets to attach any standard headboard. Assembly is a breeze, not tools are required and it can be setup in only a minute or two.
What Customers love: Affordably priced. Ultra sturdy. No squeaking or movement. Storage room underneath. No tools required.
4. The Santorini Platform Bed by Saatva
What our testers are saying:
Saatva is the leader in luxury upholstered platform beds. This bed comes in a variety of different fabric colors and is their most popular platform bed. With clean lines and a soft comfortable headboard you are sure to look forward to jumping into bed every night. The bed comes with built in bed slats that you can put your mattress directly on without a box spring.
What Customers love: Luxurious and simple sturdy design.
5. The Bed Frame by Birch
What Customers love: Simple natural design. Easily snaps together without tools.
PRICE:
From $499
What our testers are saying:
The Bed Frame by Birch comes in a natural wood or white finish. This bed is simple in nature and does not require any tools for assembly. It sits right above the ground and has built in bed slats so you do not need to use a box spring, you can put your mattress or futon directly on the frame. The clean lines and low profile design are consistent with beds and styles of Japanese furniture and is sure to add to your simple and minimalist bedroom appearance.
6. The Adjustable Base by Puffy
What our testers are saying:
The Puffy adjustable bed is a great option for active couples or heavier sleepers. It is not only extremely heavy duty and sturdy but it also comes with adjustability features, a massage option and much more. Adjustable beds allow for a variety of sleeping and resting positions and are great for back pain or surgery recovery as well.
What Customers love: Our pick for the sturdiest adjustable bed on the market.
7. The Solid Wood Platform Bed by Avocado
What our testers are saying:
Avocado prides themselves on providing customers with high end organic and natural sleeping products. Their bed frames are built with solid pieces of reclaimed wood and don’t require any tools for assembly. The price for their products is mid-range for the market but for the quality it can’t be beat. Their bed frames are built to last and will be one you could hand down to your grandchildren. The benefit of purchasing a bed frame like this is that it is built with quality sturdy materials that won’t break down or loosen over time. The bed comes with no screws or nails. You simply fit the pieces together and poof you have a high end sturdy bed frame that will last for years and it easy to disassemble and reassemble should you need to move it. If you have the budget for it we highly recommend the Avocado bed frames as our favorite sturdy beds on the market.
Starting at $645
What Customers love: Each handmade with a 100% heavy duty solid wood frame. All natural materials. No assembly tools required.
8. The Minimalist Steel Bed Frame by Keetsa
What our testers are saying:
Keetsa’s line of steel bed frames are simplistic and minimalist in their design but they are built to be sturdy. These bed frames hold over 2000 lbs and do not squeak or sway under pressure. The low center of gravity and solid steel design make them aesthetically pleasing as well as functional and easy to assemble. If you are looking for an affordable sturdy platform bed frame then it doesn’t get much better than Keetsa. The Keetsa frame is a platform bed which means you do not need to purchase a box spring.
PRICE:
From $290
What Customers love: Minimalist design. Holds over 2000lbs. Variety of finishes available.
9. The Platform Bed Frame by Amerisleep
What our testers are saying:
This platform bed by Amerisleep is a great all around frame that comes with a soft fabric headboard and built in bed slats that you can put any mattress directly on. The tan fabric goes will with the vast majorty of bedroom styles and comes at a very competitive price point.
What Customers love: A universally luxurious upholstered bed.
10.Platform Bed by Mellow
What our testers are saying:
This 9″ Metal platform bed frame features heavy duty steel construction with metal slat support for stable and comfortable support without the need for a traditional box spring. 9 inch low profile modern design allows you to easily get in and out of the bed.
What Customers love: Solid steel frame and steel slats for heavy duty support. Affordable price.
11. The Platform Bed by Helix (white or natural)
What our testers are saying:
The platform bed by Helix is a great minimalist platform bed frame that will provide heavy duty support at a great price point. The frame easily snaps together without the need for any tools and it utilizes heavy duty bed slats, which means you do not need to purchase a box spring (you can put your mattress directly on the frame). This bed is available in a white or natural wood finish and sits low to the ground for a minimalist, modern appearance.
What Customers love: Solid wood construction. Modern minimalist design. Low to the ground. Easy, zero tool assembly.
12. The Platform Bed by Floyd
Bed Height: 6″ above ground
What our testers are saying:
The Floyd platform bed is one of the most popular bed frames on the market. It sits only 6″ off the ground and gives the appearance of floating . This bed is available in 2 finishes and is one of our favorite low bed frames available. It also is a platform style bed which means you do not need to purchase a box spring, saving you 8″ of height that a box spring adds.
Floyd offers an entire lineup of easy assembly bedroom furniture and is quickly becoming one of the most popular online furniture companies in the industry. This bed is sturdy and solid and is meant to hold up for years to come. While the bed is low to the ground, this does not mean it lacks storage space. Floyd offers under bed drawers that you can add on to your bed frame purchase for storing clothes or misc items.
What Customers love: Simple minimalist design. Easy snap together assembly, zero tools required.
13. The Lucerne Platform Bed by Santorini
What our testers are saying:
The Lucerne platform bed us sure to make a big statement in any bedroom. The oversized headboard is soft and perfect for leaning against while reading or watching tv. The bed comes with built in bed slats that you can put your mattress on without the need to use any box spring underneath.
What Customers love: Over-stuffed headboard for a soft and elegant touch. Variety of fabrics available.
14. Heavy Duty Platform Bed w/ Steel Slats by Mellow
What our testers are saying:
This Mellow bed frame is made with solid steel and is built to withstand anything. The assembly is slightly more than the other bed frames above but the price makes it a great option for an affordable sturdy bed.
What Customers love: Low to the ground and made with solid steel
15. The Tufty Time Bed
What our testers are saying:
The Tufty Time bed is sure to turn heads. This low sitting soft bed is unlike anything in the industry. Its tufted headboard is cozy and warm and the perfect place for snuggling up and reading a book or watching a show.
What Customers love: Low modern look. Soft cozy feel. Available in a variety of high end fabrics.
16. The Malibu Platform Bed by Avocado
Bed Height: 5″ above ground
What our testers are saying:
The Malibu platform bed by Avocado is one of the lowest sitting bed frames on this list. Sitting less than 6″ above the ground, this bed is sleek and space saving for any style of room. The natural wood look can also be paired with any of Avocado’s bedroom accessories like side tables and dressers. The Malibu bed also comes with an optional headboard in 2 different sizes. This bed is the ultimate low sitting bed frame and is sure to provide a minimalist look. If you prefer a slightly taller clearance above the ground Avocado also offers legs that are up to 4″ taller. Avocado is well known in the industry for quality products that, while slightly more expensive, are handmade to last for years to come.
What Customers love: Low sitting, minimalist modern design. Solid wood frame.
17. The Platform Bed by Dreamcloud
Bed Height: 10″ above ground
What our testers are saying:
This Platform Bed is simple yet sophisticated and can work in any home décor style. Its unique 10-inch legs are slightly angled to give that modern retro vibe while the classic wood slats and platform bed is solid enough to support your mattress without the need for a box spring. No tools are required for assembly, making setup a quick and pain-free process. The bed is also offered in 3 different colors to match a variety of styles.
What Customers love: Simple, minimalist modern look. Affordably priced.
18. The KERT frame by Mellow
What Customers love: Simple design with minimalist headboard. Available in a variety of colors.
Mellow is known for making minimalist bed frames at an affordable price. Their KERT frame couples a solid steel frame with a colorful soft fabric headboard. This simple design gives a pop of personality to your room while still keeping its simple and minimalist appeal.
19. The 6″ Suzanne Platform Bed by Zinus
Bed Height: 6″ above ground
What our testers are saying:
The Zinus Suzanne platform bed brings affordability to the low profile bed market. This bed frame allows you to get the low bed style while not having to spend very much. This bed won’t last as long as some of the more expensive options but is a great buy to utilize for a few years.
What Customers love: Beautiful simple design and affordable
20. The LAX Platform Bed by MASH Studios
What our testers are saying:
Take a deep breath. Visualize yourself simplifying everything about your life. You’re reducing clutter, bringing your home into alignment, and feeling good about life. You dream of wide open spaces and plenty of breathing space. In that visualization, do you see really heavy, old-fashioned furniture with a million superfluous carvings and accents? Of course you don’t. You see furniture that brings zen to your home–simple furniture made out of strong materials and subdued colors. You’re thinking of the LAX bed by MASH Studios. Available in a variety of options including an optional headboard and optional under storage.
What Customers love: Unique low profile design. Optional headboard and under bed storage
21. The 14″ Justina Platform Bed by Zinus
What our testers are saying:
The Zinus Justina offers an all in one classic bed design. The legs coupled with the box spring style platform will give your mattress a minimalist look, almost as if they are floating above the ground. This bed is affordable and ships quickly. It may not hold up as long as the high end beds on this list but it is a great option for an entry level budget friendly bed.
What Customers love: Great price for the quality
22. The Platforma 6″ Low Profile Platform Bed
What our testers are saying:
The Platforma low bed frame is simple yet makes a statement. The metal coupled with the simple design brings in an industrial feel while also keeping with the minimalist modern trend. This bed frame is extremely affordable compared to competitors.
What Customers love: Fits my California King mattress perfectly.
23. The City Bed by Avocado
What our testers are saying:
Avocado produces quality mattresses and bed frames and the City Bed is no exception. This bed frame sits low to the ground and easily snaps together without the need for hardware or tools. The City Bed is Avocado’s most affordable and simple bed that they offer.
What Customers love: Classic natural wood bed frame. Affordable and easy snap together assembly.
24. The HYLLE Platform bed with Shelf by Mellow
What Customers love: Simple modern design with functional shelf that can replace a side table.
The HYLLE by Mellow is a simple modern designed platform bed that utilizes the most of its space. The headboard features a shelf that allows for storage and replaces the need for side tables. The simply designed metal base is sturdy and delicate as to not overpower the room.
25. The Mid-Century Modern by Avocado
What Customers love: Modern minimalist mid-century design
Avocado is know in the industry for their organic and natural sleep products. Each of their bed frames is handcrafted with wood and built to last. Their mid-century bed frame is a mix of modern minimalist design with a little bit of a rustic feel. This bed is sturdy and will last for years and years.
Will a Mattress Feel the Same on a Bed Frame Without a Box Spring?
You will notice a difference with your mattress if you don’t have a box spring. You may find your mattress sagging if you are missing the proper support.
A saggy bed can be pretty uncomfortable. The mattress may begin to sag over time in areas where you sleep, and the sagging will worsen if you don’t add support.
Sleepers might also find that their mattress feels more sturdy with a box spring. They may find their bed too soft, and adding a box spring or foundation support will intensify your sleeping experience.
Platform bed frames and foundations can provide excellent support for your mattress, but they tend to make your mattress feel firmer. You will also notice a lack of movement, and the bed will not seem as bouncy when you miss the box spring’s shock absorption.
Pros and Cons of Using a Mattress on a Bed Frame Without a Box Spring
You may be considering upgrading your bed and need to decide if you would like to invest in a box spring. A box spring is unnecessary for all mattress types, so you must remember when choosing your mattress. Your preference for mattress firmness is also a factor.
There are pros and cons to not using a box spring. You can consider these before you go bed shopping.
Pros
A bed without a box spring is much lower than a mattress and box spring. Children and older people will have a much easier time climbing in and out of bed daily.
It is also great for those that may fall out of bed since there will be less chance of injury. People who suffer from joint pain or mobility issues will also enjoy this benefit.
People can choose a platform bed frame with additional storage space underneath. The added storage can be an advantage when there is limited space in the room. You can also choose a platform bed with built-in bookshelves for those that enjoy reading.
A platform bed with a foam or latex mattress might be more aesthetically pleasing. The compact nature of the platform bed might fit nicely into your sleeping area, and some people find that these beds look much neater.
Choosing a new mattress that does not need a box spring may be more affordable. You can invest more money into a higher-quality mattress than buying the box spring. Consumers can also invest in a good mattress topper if they find the bed is not as comfortable as they would like. A topper will not add the height that a box spring would.
Another advantage of having a bed without a box spring is that it is much easier to make. People can easily reach to tuck bed sheets under the mattress.
Many find it much easier to clean and flip their mattress over when it is lower. You should clean and maintain your mattress to last as long as possible.
A box spring will wear over time, and you will have to replace it. Replacing a mattress and a box spring can be expensive, and you can save by investing in a reasonable platform frame and mattress and you will only have to worry about replacing the mattress.
Cons
Some people consider the lower height of the bed a con. Pets and small children can quickly get up on the bed, and chaos sometimes ensues.
Children often jump on the bed for amusement, damaging the mattress or the frame without sufficient support. The mattress will wear much quicker, and you will have to replace it sooner than you would have liked.
People who do not have a box spring often notice that their mattress only lasts for a short time. A box spring tends to absorb some of the movement and extends the life of the bed.
The box spring also stops your mattress from sagging. Some may find their mattress very uncomfortable without a box spring.
Some manufacturers would not honor mattress warranties if the buyer did not use a box spring with their new mattress. You must read your warranty details to ensure that you follow all requirements.
Also, if you have an odd size mattress like an olympic queen or full xl size you will likely need to purchase a standard frame with a box spring as platform beds do not usually come in custom sizes.
Final Thoughts
So, can you use a mattress without box spring? A great night’s sleep is one of the essential parts of your day. People should choose the right mattress and bed frame.
They will have to decide whether they want to use a box spring. It is best to consider the advantages and disadvantages of using a box spring and determine the best option.
