How Long Do Box Springs Really Last Before They Need Changing?

There is nothing as soothing and as pleasing as a good night’s rest. That restoration that your body and brain go through is made easier when you can sleep comfortably without tossing and turning.

Unfortunately, you can sometimes go to bed and wake up even more exhausted than when you went to bed. When you find yourself uncomfortable all night, your mattress’s box springs might be the culprit. Sometimes, the springs just give out and need to be replaced. 

How long do box springs last? Well, that depends on their quality and how you use them. In this article, we discuss the different factors that could affect the lifespan of your box springs.

What Are Box Springs?

how long do boxpsrings last

Box springs are the support system and shock absorber for your mattress. They are the platform that your mattress needs for stability and even weight distribution. The reason your mattress doesn’t sink inward or look uneven is because of good box springs. 

Do box springs wear out? Yes, they do. The problem you’re experiencing might not be the surface of your mattress, but your box springs. If you think they’re an indestructible material that never needs changing, you’re wrong. 

How Long Do Box Springs Last?

On average, a good box spring will last between seven to 10 years, with some brands lasting even longer. Regardless of how long your box spring was built to last, there are certain factors that affect its lifespan. 

When Do You Need to Replace a Box Spring?

Determining if your box spring needs to be replaced can be quite tricky, especially if you’re not sure if it’s the box spring or the mattress that needs replacing. But there are a few ways to find out if your box spring is the culprit.

Time 

If you have had your box spring for a little over seven to ten years, then it is definitely time to get a new one. The springs wear out over time and won’t be able to provide good support for your mattresses anymore.

Squeaking

A squeaky box spring is a sign that it is due to be replaced. Once the innerspring coils start to rust or degenerate, they give off squeaky sounds. Ignoring these sounds can lead to a total mattress collapse. 

Bent or Broken Planks

The frame of a box spring is made out of plywood. Plywood is susceptible to heat, weather, rot or insect damage. Once the plywood starts to fall apart or wear out, it’s time to get a new box spring.

Sagging 

When you start to notice sagging that isn’t from your body’s indentation on the mattress, it’s time to change that box spring.

A worn-out box spring will not provide the support and balance it should, leading to further discomfort. As soon as you notice these tell-tale signs, you should start preparing to get a new one.

Types of Box Springs

Say you’ve had your recently worn-out box spring for over eight to 10 years. There are several other models now available that will get the job done too. Let’s take a closer look at several box spring options for you to explore.

You don’t always have to stick to what you know. Change might be a good thing. Let’s get into several box spring options for you to explore.

Coil Box Springs

how long do boxsprings last

The coil box spring is arguably the most common type of box spring. They are also known as traditional box springs too. 

They can last as long as 10 years, adequately providing support for all mattress sizes. They come with wood frames and evenly spaced-out coils. Coil springs are best paired with innerspring mattresses.

Semi-Flex Grid Box Springs

This is a newer and more expensive model of box spring. The grid design is a wooden base with an inner mesh layer made from metal wire. They are built to support heavier, comfy mattresses made from latex or memory foam. They are best suited for California king beds. 

Zero-Deflection Box Spring

This type of box spring is also commonly used because of how much support it can provide for a mattress. It’s made out of a mix of wooden slat and steel wire, which enables it to hold a lot of weight. 

This box spring doesn’t cost much and is more durable than coil box springs. It offers very sturdy base support and is compatible with many modern mattresses. 

Split Box Springs

These types of box springs come in a two-halves design. They are particularly suitable for large beds such as a king or queen size. The only downside is you would need to provide support for the box metal spring in the middle.

How to Choose the Right Type of Box Spring 

There are certain factors to be considered when choosing a box spring, including the following:

Weight Capacity

When choosing a box spring, you should always consider how much weight it can support, since its primary function is shock absorption. 

Estimate the weight of the mattress plus the weight of the people who are sleeping on it. There are box springs that will comfortably support a thinner mattress, high-quality mattress and even a hybrid mattress.

Mattress Type

Different types of mattresses require different types of box springs. Some mattresses get the best support from box springs, while others can be better paired with a wooden base. 

Generally, mattresses with coil systems or inner springs go well with box springs, while a memory foam mattress is better off on a solid foundation. You should check your mattress manufacturer warranty for further help on this. 

Bed Height 

how long do boxsprings last

Box springs add some extra height to your bed. However, there are low-profile box springs that will provide sturdy and adequate support without increasing the height of your mattress too much. 

You can go as low as two inches or as high as nine inches depending on your preference.

How to Care for a Box Spring

Many things can affect the lifespan of a box spring other than just sleeping on it. Making use of these tips can help increase the lifespan of your box spring.

  • Do not eat in your bed. Crumbs can lead to insect infestation.
  • Avoid spilling liquid on the bed or in the bed corners.
  • Wash your sheets regularly. Mold and bacteria can negatively impact the lifespan of your box spring.
  • Clean your box spring regularly every three months to avoid bed bugs, dust mites or other bugs. 
  • If possible, put your mattress and box spring in the sun after exposure to moisture.
  • Avoid jumping on the bed.
  • Keep the weight of the mattress even on the box spring at all times. Uneven weight distribution can lead to quick damage.
  • Replace your box spring at the same time as the mattress unless you’re sure the box spring is in good shape.

Bottom Line

Box springs are the most common type of mattress foundation, and they can last over a decade if you take care of them properly. 

Their primary purpose is to provide support and an even surface for your mattress. Not only is this helpful for the lifespan of the mattress, but also in providing you with comfort while you sleep. 

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