Bed frame slats are just one of the many components of a bed which often don’t receive the appreciation they deserve. Every aspect of a bed serves a purpose. Even the parts which don’t seem to do much on the surface. This article will describe what bed frame slats are, their purpose, their benefits, and the different types you can implement on your bed frame. 

What are slats?

Bed frame slats are those multitudinous rows of wooden planks that sit underneath your mattress that work alongside your mattress to provide support. These planks are usually made of strong wood like pine or beech, which is unlikely to snap under pressure or heavy movement. There are two types of slats to choose from, solid and sprung. 

• Solid bed frame slats

A solid slat bed is a frame with rigid planks which restrict the movement of the mattress and provide no spring to help with the bounciness of your mattress. If you prefer a firmer mattress, a solid slat bed will be the better option for you. 

• Sprung slats

Sprung slats are springy and can make your bed feel far bouncier than it would on top of solid slats. Flexible slats work with your mattress, prolong its life, and improve comfort levels. If you prefer softer mattresses, sprung slats would be preferable. 

Why do some people opt out of slats?

These are not compulsory components of a bed and can be removed or opted out of entirely. Non-slatted beds remove the unlikely possibility of breakage and prevent your mattress from sagging over time. Furthermore, if your slats aren’t fitted properly, there is always the chance that your slats could move or fall, leading to a generally less sturdy bed. 

As a general rule, mattresses should not be used on bedsteads where the slats are more than 7cm apart, as this can permanently damage the mattress over time and cause the springs to settle in the gaps between the slats. This is the primary reason some choose not to include slats. 

However, these eventualities are relatively unlikely to occur and can be avoided with high-quality and correct installation. The benefits of slats outweigh the negatives. 

The benefits of bed frame slats

There are many benefits of bed frames with slats which make them preferable to those that don’t include them. A few of these benefits include,

• Support

Bed slats can provide you with an incredibly supported slumber which ensures that your mattress doesn’t sink over time or slide around. 

• Cleanliness

The cleanliness of your bed can be maintained by improved air circulation under your mattress thanks to the gaps between the slats. Bacteria thrive in warm environments in which moisture is prevalent, so ensuring there is plenty of circulation in your mattress to prevent trapped heat or moisture could be integral to keeping your mattress in good condition. Cleaning your mattress can be difficult, so doing everything you can to keep it clean is recommended. 

My Next Mattress

Here at My Next Mattress, we stock hundreds of bed frames with and without slats to give you the freedom of choice. Now that you know the functionality and benefits of bed slats, you can make an informed decision. Browse our selection of beds now!