Bed base, types, features, selection tips

Many people face this choice when it comes time to buy a bed. The question arises: why buy an orthopedic base when you can get by with an orthopedic mattress?

If you decide to improve your body's health, select a bed with an orthopedic base.

Buying a good orthopedic mattress is a profitable investment in your comfort and well-being.

In this article we will answer this question and tell you what the advantages and disadvantages of foundations are and what to look for when purchasing.

Types of bases

There are two categories of beds: flat solid and orthopedic lattice.

1) Flat solid is a surface made of planed boards, plywood or chipboard (made from pressed wood chips). It is treated with protective and decorative agents and attached to the frame. A solid base is heavier than an orthopedic one and is less mobile. And most importantly, it prevents the mattress from revealing all its orthopedic characteristics and capabilities. Thus, sleep worsens.

Such a base interacts worse with the mattress due to poor ventilation, therefore its service life is reduced.

2) An orthopedic lattice base for a bed consists of a metal or wooden frame with a lifting mechanism and legs, wooden slats, which are attached to it using lath holders.

Lamels are curved wooden planks.

Lamels can be made from the following types of wood:

Birch;
Beech;
Nut.

Birch slats are the optimal material. They perform their functions adequately and at the same time are cheaper than slats made from other types of wood.

Walnut and beech slats are more expensive, but they are durable and can withstand more weight.

Standard lamella sizes:

Thickness from 6 to 8 mm;
Optimal width 63 mm;
Length according to the dimensions of the base;
The distance between the lamellas is 70-80 mm, this distance allows to improve the orthopedic effect;
The optimal number of lamellas is from 11 to 13 pcs.

The slats provide a comfortable and anatomically correct position of the body.

These sizes of slats allow you to make the bed lighter. They give it elasticity and harmonious interaction with the orthopedic mattress, which allows you to achieve maximum comfort.

The lamella grid can withstand loads of up to 150 kg.

All orthopedic bases undergo all mandatory strength tests.

Varieties

Main types of bed bases:

flat;
on slats;
metal;
plastic;
orthopedic.

Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. The models differ from each other in design features, transformation mechanism and manufacturing materials. It is also important to consider the conditions under which the base will be used.

Flat

A flat bottom base is one of the simplest designs. Most often it is made of plywood. Sheets of chipboard, fiberboard or boards can also be used. The material is rigidly fixed to the bed frame and is a solid covering. Two methods are used for fastening: rivet or staple. It is advisable to give preference to the first option.

The advantages of a flat bottom include:

low cost;
natural composition of materials;
no squeaking - provided that the boards are laid correctly.

Of course, there are some disadvantages to solid wood bed bases. This coating is short-lived because it cannot withstand high loads. It is poorly ventilated and can be pressed under the weight of the mattress. Deformed areas cannot be repaired or replaced due to a violation of the integrity of the structure.

A solid base is suitable for people who, for medical reasons, need to sleep on a hard surface.

Chipboard Plywood

Boards

On slats

The most popular covering option for the base of a bed is slats. These are plates in the form of strips on which the mattress is placed. They are made from various types of wood. The best slatted bed bases are those made from birch. Slats made of alder or beech are also common.

The quality of the products depends on the width of the crossbars. Wide slats are considered a budget option. They will fit under a mattress that does not have springs. Narrow slats are more versatile and suitable for all types of beds.

All lamellas are divided into two types:

mortise - inserted into the frame;
invoices - attached using special holders.

Some models provide adjustment of stiffness along the entire length or in a separate part, but options without the possibility of such settings are more common. Straight slats create a rigid surface. They are great for children's backs and are also indicated for people with spinal problems. Spring ones are more elastic. They are ways to bend, which relaxes the back muscles.

Options for placing and designing shelves around the bed, installation methods

Sometimes the lamella base is additionally equipped with a transformation mechanism. It can be mechanical (manual) or electrically driven. The presence of such a device allows you to change the design of the product.

The frame for the base on lamellas can be made of metal or wood. To make the bed stronger, you should give preference to the first option. Among the main advantages of such models:

the product is well ventilated;
the load is evenly distributed over the entire surface;
if broken, the lamellas can be replaced;
the structure with legs can be used as a full-fledged bed.

For optimal support of the spine, you should choose lamellas in the form of arcs, which reduce the load on the mattress and improve the quality of sleep.

Invoices

Mortise

Spring

Direct

Narrow

Wide

Metal

An iron bed base is one of the most durable. Its service life is at least 20 years. There are two types of metal structures:

solid;
mesh.

Models with a solid metal base are the most budget option. They are a hard bottom, which is suitable for people with spinal diseases. Most often they produce models with a bed base frame without a headboard, but you can choose an option with an interesting forged backrest. The disadvantages of a solid structure include the complete lack of ventilation. It is also not suitable for a mattress with an orthopedic function.

The mesh iron base is excellent value for money. The design is also called armored due to the appearance of intertwined metal springs. The mesh can withstand a weight of 150 kilograms and is very difficult to deform. This base is suitable for overweight people. Unlike a flat bottom, the shell design is well ventilated and is compatible with orthopedic mattresses. The main disadvantages are a weakening of spring tension and a decrease in surface rigidity over time, heavy weight and excessive hardness of the coating.

Mesh metal bed bases can be adjusted by periodically manually tightening the springs. The hardness of the bed changes in the same way.

Mesh

Solid

Plastic based

The plastic base is a plastic support combined with spring elements. This is one of the most durable structures with wide functionality. It is perfect for orthopedic mattresses. Models of this type are often equipped with an electric drive. The bed can be fully adjusted to your body position. Plastic bases have several significant advantages:

the elasticity of the structure enhances the properties of the mattress;
durability;
ability to adjust the degree of hardness.

Useful tips for housewives on choosing bedspreads for the bedroom

The disadvantages of a plastic base are:

poor ventilation;
high price.

For children and the elderly, a plastic base will be an excellent solution. Thanks to high-quality adjustment of the hardness of the coating, the elasticity of the surface is completely customizable. It can be either hard enough for a child’s back or soft enough for the elderly.

Design features of a bed with an orthopedic base

In addition to the listed advantages, this design allows the bed to be more mobile, which will significantly save space in the car when moving and make unloading and loading easier.

This option is well suited for rented apartments, motels, and hotels.

Sleeping structures with such bases can be disassembled and assembled without much effort; the following elements are separated from the frame:

Sleeping area;
Legs;
Upper base with slats;
Lower part, with drawers for linen.

The disassembled structure can be transported by car.

Such designs are equipped with a lifting mechanism and have the ability to compactly store things and bedding. The legs are detached, the slats are pulled out of the lath holders, leaving a metal frame with a mattress.

All other parts of the structure are compactly folded into a box.

The designs are available in 2 types:

1) Without stiffness adjustment;

Bed base without the ability to change the rigidity of the slats.

2) With adjustable rigidity (a very important, at the same time convenient function for double designs).

This feature is convenient for a bed on which people of different weights sleep.

Using the adjustment, you can adjust the rigidity of the orthopedic base, individually for each person lying on it. There are 7 hardness zone points:

Head,
Shoulders,
Back,
Taz,
Hips,
Knees,
Feet.

A bed with the ability to adjust the rigidity of the slats along their entire length.

Towards the base of the bed, it is important to choose the right mattress. Orthopedic mattresses are made with different fillings. These are mainly springs, horsehair, coconut coir, and natural latex.

All these fillers do not cause an allergic reaction, are well ventilated and moderately elastic, which creates the maximum effect for a comfortable sleep.

Stages of work taking into account the model

Depending on the model, the algorithm for making a bed will differ. Those who have not done this kind of work before should start with simple options. It is also recommended to study master classes in advance.

Children's room made of chipboard

In order to make a bed from chipboard for a child, you will need:

1 solid sheet of chipboard (you need to choose a good quality chipboard);
2 side drawers;
2 bars (of the same length as the drawers);
1 or 2 boards or timber to give rigidity to the entire structure (it is also possible to use furniture panels);
1 front wall of the box;
10-15 slats along the width of the bed;
4 legs with plugs on them.

This is a simple and beautiful model. The child is guaranteed to like it. It will be possible to assemble it from improvised means.

The assembly process begins with drilling holes for confirmations. You will need special drills (7 x 70); in extreme cases, regular drills (7 x 5) will do. You can assemble a chipboard bed with your own hands as follows:

We fasten the headboard material to the drawers using metal corners.
We attach the footboard using the same principle.
We fasten the joints with confirmations. The result is a rectangular box for a child's bed.
We install a support crossbar in the middle. To make the structure more stable, it is recommended to add another leg approximately in the middle.
We fasten the bars to the sidewalls from the inside with confirmations.
We insert the legs into the inner corners (under the block).
We lay a grid of slats on the support beam and bars along the entire length. It is important to maintain the same distance between them. Their total number depends on the calculated width and size of the gaps.
We screw the slats to the support and bars. If they are not available, making a bed from furniture panels will be even easier.
If the project included decorative parts, we attach them.

The advantage of such furniture is that it is quickly and easily assembled. The result is a do-it-yourself single bed. You can make a drawing for it yourself or use ready-made calculations. To save time, it is recommended to purchase laminated material, since making a bed from chipboard with your own hands will be much easier.

The main material in this case is chipboard. Plates can be toxic, so it is necessary to check whether the manufacturer has certificates and how safe their products are.

Headboard drawing Headboard assembly

Foothills

Side wall

Assembly diagram

Finished bed

Japanese style double room

According to the drawings, you can also make a Japanese-style bed with your own hands quite quickly. This model has a laconic design that will look organic in any interior. The bed is reliable and simple, does not require a lot of time and materials. An ordinary Japanese bed has the following parameters:

length and height of the footboard – 1.6 x 1.2 m;
headboard length and height – 1.6 x 1.5 m;
length of side bars – 2.08 m;
height of legs – 30 cm.

Advantages of solid wood beds, popular models and designs

Naturally, the parameters may vary depending on the size of the mattress. To make such a bed you will need:

furniture board (beech or pine is recommended);
beam;
fiberboard sheet;
plywood:
logs;
middle beam.

To make a homemade plywood bed look unusual, it is decorated with decorative elements.

After cutting, there should be parts for the sides of the frame, four legs, elements for the footboard and headboard. So, the base for the bed is first assembled with your own hands, then strengthened with corners. The frame is mounted on self-tapping screws. The stiffening ribs are fixed with bolts from the inside. If the furniture is wide, it is necessary to tighten the frame with a longitudinal beam in the middle. After this, all that remains is to attach the slatted base and headboard.

Cut out the parts Assemble the frame Install the legs

Attach the headboard Make a slatted base

Cover the headboard with fabric

Floating made of wood and metal

This design is not placed on the floor in the usual way. It seems that it is hanging in the air, but in fact the supports are securely hidden. You can enhance the effect with lighting from below. This is ideal furniture for high-tech style, but it is extremely rare. If there is a model, it is too expensive, so it is better to get by with a bed made by yourself.

For work you will need wood, a square metal pipe and combined materials. Instructions for making furniture:

We start the assembly from the support. This is the part that will bear the main burden. We connect thick boards for support with self-tapping screws, treating the joints with glue. It is recommended to use metal corners for reinforcement.
We install crossbars inside the contour.
In the corners there are posts made of timber or boards placed at the ends.
Now we assemble the frame on which the mattress is placed. We lay a board panel or several sheets of plywood on it, and fasten the outer sides around the perimeter. All that remains is to decorate the hand-made bed under the ceiling.

The support, frame and frame of a floating bed can be made of metal.

Assemble the support

Install crossbars

Add timber posts at the corners

Assemble the frame for the mattress, fasten it to the support

Lay the bed base Secure the outer sides

Decorate the bed

With PVC pipe base

A bed for a country house is often made from these materials due to their low cost and availability. It is with them that beginners are recommended to start. You can assemble a swing bed with your own hands from PVC pipes and make it a two-tier bed.

Having decided to assemble furniture from plastic pipes, the master has complete freedom for creativity. To make a bed for a summer house with your own hands, pipe sections are glued together to form a base. A mattress and pillows are placed on top. If a bunk bed is being made, the joints should be fastened with fittings and glue to ensure that the structure is as strong as possible.

Cut pipes to the required sizes, assemble the structure

Install the mattress

Foldable to wall

This is the ideal pull-out bed for small spaces. It is equipped with a lifting mechanism that allows you to place it against the wall during the day, leaving more free space in the apartment. The folding bed can be easily installed according to the drawings. To make it you will need:

transformation mechanism;
beam;
plywood;
chipboard;
furniture panels;
legs.

Installation begins with the box. On its walls we mark how we will attach the mechanism. We fix it to the wall with self-tapping screws and metal corners, then assemble the frame from timber. We cover the frame with boards. At the last stage, we attach the bottom to the bottom.

Dimensions

The length of the base should be 20 cm greater than a person’s height, the width of a single base should be at least 80 cm. Such dimensions allow you to sit comfortably on the bed.

A bed with such dimensions does not take up extra space in the room.

The legs are made of high-strength metal, the most convenient length of the legs is 24-25 cm. The height of the base depends on them. The stability of the structure is ensured by the number of legs (there are up to 7 of them on the frame).

To strengthen the structure, a central frame runs through the middle.

The total height is 27-28 cm, it all depends on the manufacturer. The lamella grid serves to properly distribute weight on the mattress and extend the life of the mattress.

Choosing an orthopedic base

When choosing, you need to pay attention to the following factors:

The quality of the lamellas (they should not have large knots or cracks);
The base should not creak; creaking causes discomfort;
The metal frame should not have rust, chips or scratches;
Wooden bases should not have loose mounting holes or sharp untreated edges;
Completeness of accessories;
The slats should not be chipped;

An important criterion is the brand of the product, since sleep comfort and the service life of the orthopedic base depend on the quality of the product.

The mounting details of the slats affect the price and quality of the bed. The slats are attached to the base using lath holders.

Lat holders are fasteners designed to hold slats in a sleeping structure.

The slats are attached with the convex side up. They come in rubber and plastic. Rubber ones are more elastic and expensive.

Plastic lathe holders are cheaper, but more rigid and durable than rubber ones.

Orthopedic bases are produced with a lifting mechanism. Mechanisms are divided into several types.

The manual mechanism is reliable and has a longer service life than all others, but is inconvenient, because when opening it you have to hold the base and the mattress at the same time.
It is spring-loaded, difficult to lift, but does its job well; over time it has to be replaced due to the fact that the springs stretch.
Gas springs open smoothly and silently and are mainly used to lift heavy bed structures.
The lifting mechanism is electrically driven - it is convenient to use and is driven by a control panel.

Beds with a lifting mechanism can be equipped with drawers for linen, thereby saving space in the bedroom.

The legs are made of high-strength metal, have a comfortable height, are easily detached and attached to the bed frame, and provide stability to the entire structure and additional mobility of the bed.

Pros of an ortho-directional base

Beds with an orthopedic base and mattress offer their owners a number of advantages:

Good air circulation is ensured, while the hygiene of the sleeping area increases.
The weight distribution required by the anatomy is ensured.
The service life of the mattress is extended and its ortho-effect is better manifested.
Has a flexible design. At the same time, it is possible to expand the bed frame.

Manufacturers also offer innovative models with a slatted bed base with a lifting mechanism. Lifting can occur in a horizontal or vertical plane.

Orthopedic base with adjustment

There are two types of adjustment.

1. Adjusting the rigidity of the lamellas.

This adjustment allows you to adjust the stock to your weight.

2. Adjustment of the upper and lower parts of the base.

This type of adjustment will allow you to comfortably enjoy breakfast and provide blood flow to tired legs by placing them at an angle.

Reliability and strength are not lost from such functions, since manufacturers take into account all the necessary points during testing.

Types of lifting mechanisms

Such a device can create a full or partial lift of the base. You can raise the frame completely:

horizontally (to create a secret niche for linen);
vertical (transformable model, when the sleeping place is completely retracted into the closet in one movement).

The partial lifting mechanism is installed at the top and bottom of the base. It allows you to relax with maximum comfort, which is the main purpose of a functional bed. Thanks to the upper mechanism, it is convenient for a person to sit on the mattress, watch TV or read a book. The lower lift is especially useful for people who suffer from swollen feet.

Several types of lifting mechanisms are used in foundations:

manual;
spring;
on gas shock absorbers;
electric.

The most affordable and accessible is the manual mechanism. To lift the base, physical force must be used. Despite the low cost, this system is durable.

Do not use traumatic beds with a manual mechanism in children's rooms.

For the spring mechanism to work, it is also necessary to apply effort, but this is partially compensated by the coiled spring. The service life of such a device is 3 years. Afterwards it is advisable to replace the spring, as it can stretch.

Classification of mattress covers for a bed, choosing the right size

One of the most convenient bases for a bed with a lifting mechanism is a design with gas shock absorbers. It is easy to use and absolutely safe for children. The service life of the device is 10 years.

Thanks to the transformable electric bed base, a person can completely adjust the mechanism to suit themselves. The position of the moving parts changes when you press buttons on the control panel. The only drawback of the system is a small percentage of the probability of electronic failure.

Horizontal base lift Vertical Manual lift

Spring

On gas shock absorbers

Electric

Summing up

The advantages of classic beds that have a solid base are that they are designed to carry more human weight than those with an orthopedic bed frame and are more stable due to their weight.

The disadvantages of the bases of such beds are that they are more bulky, less mobile, they have a shorter mattress life, and they are more difficult to repair than beds with an orthopedic base.

Beds with an orthopedic base also have a number of advantages and disadvantages.

The advantages of such beds are much greater than the disadvantages. They are designed for a weight of up to 150 kg, light in weight, mobile, quickly disassembled and assembled. It is possible to adjust the rigidity of the berth individually. There is a wide variety of designs, a wide price range. The frame can be used independently of the bed. Beds equipped with a lifting mechanism are easy to use.

In the manufacture of such beds, modern technologies are used, which expands their capabilities and provides additional comfort.

The only disadvantage is that such beds are designed for less weight.

Which is better to choose a base for a bed - types

Bases can be classified according to three main parameters, since design features, dimensions and materials for production are taken into account. Types of bed bases are globally divided into solid and orthopedic (slat).

The solid design is significantly inferior to the orthopedic base in terms of comfort and wear resistance. A sheet of plywood may break if the load is exceeded, and rigid fixation of the boards will not allow you to use all the capabilities of the orthopedic mattress to the maximum. Over time, the surface becomes deformed, and its individual elements are not suitable for replacement and repair.

Advantages of a solid base:

Low cost due to simplicity of design.
The solid design is suitable for use in conjunction with any type of mattress, although orthopedic products in this case partially lose their anatomical properties.
A smooth and hard surface is useful for the treatment and prevention of certain diseases of the spine.

Choosing a bed base with an orthopedic design is recommended for those who like comfortable and healthy sleep. The slats will significantly increase the shock-absorbing properties of the sleeping place. To extend its service life, the mattress will have to be turned regularly, as it gradually sags during active use. The slats and fasteners also lose their elasticity, so if necessary, the slats and clamps should be replaced.

Advantages of an orthopedic base:

Allows for excellent air circulation, thereby increasing the hygiene of the sleeping area.
Ensures correct weight distribution.
Extends the service life and increases the orthopedic effect of the mattress.
Has a flexible design. The bed frame can be expanded to provide additional sleeping space.

Orthopedic bases are used in the production of compact furniture, so with their help you can significantly save space. Professionals will tell you how to choose a base for a bed, and they will advise you to pay attention to the materials and technologies for the production of this furniture component. Among the innovative bed models you can find slatted bases with vertical or horizontal lift. Transformation systems allow you to chop and unfold the bed.

Materials for production:

A wooden base on slats, the main advantages of which are low cost and environmental friendliness.
Plastic spring design with remote control. Provides regulation of the position of the berth. Service life exceeds 15 years. Plastic products are durable and easy to use.
Metal slatted, solid or mesh base. Regardless of the type of structure, it is durable (service life exceeds 25 years), optimal orthopedic properties and relatively low cost.

Wood is inferior to metal and plastic in durability, but provides excellent air circulation. The metal base is extremely rigid and takes a lot of time and effort to assemble.

Useful tips

If the sleeping person weighs more than 90 kg, then narrow slats should be used; wide slats are suitable for people with less weight. Some foundation manufacturers also produce mattresses. It is recommended to choose mattresses and bases from the same manufacturer.

Additionally, you can get a discount on products.

Pay attention to the complete set; some manufacturers order legs separately. To experience the full effect of an orthopedic mattress, first buy a mattress, then a base for it. If you don’t have enough money to purchase a suitable option, you can get a loan at many retail outlets, thereby making a long-term investment in your health.

An additional advantage of the orthopedic lattice is rapid repair.

To replace a broken lamella, you can always order a product of the required size, buy it in a store. Many sellers offer their customers free delivery of bases - this is another nice bonus. Sellers and manufacturers who value their reputation always meet customers halfway and exchange goods in the event of a manufacturing defect.

Remember: a high-quality, correctly made orthopedic base is the key to healthy sleep.