Types of bed bases - how to choose the right one

What is a bed base

A bed base is a mattress support and is essentially the bottom of a bed. The base can be made in the form of a continuous sheet, which is made from boards, plywood, or chipboard. This type of base is heavier in weight and less mobile. The main disadvantage is that a mattress on such a base will not be able to fully demonstrate its orthopedic properties. Accordingly, the quality of sleep also deteriorates.

The orthopedic lattice is an improved type of base. The structure consists of a frame and elastic shock-absorbing lamellas (planks) made of wood and special fastenings.

Manufacturers and models

Popular brands of orthopedic grilles presented on the Russian market:

• Ormatek grille. It has a metal all-welded frame, wide slats made of birch veneer with mortise plastic holders. Suitable for springless mattresses. Height – 3.5 cm, maximum load – 160 kg.
• "PRIME-2 STANDARD". Metal frame, narrow double birch battens with two degrees of freedom, elastic lamella holders. Height – 7 cm.
• "PRIME-2 MiddleZone". Modification of the previous model with adjustable stiffness in the lumbar area.
• "PRIME-2 Toris". Another variation of the product with adjustable stiffness along the entire length.
• Avalon Premium. Grate with a steel frame and narrow paired lamellas 3.5 cm wide, overhead plastic holders. Increased number of battens: there are 26 crossbars in a row. The manufacturer recommends using such a grid for mattresses made on the basis of a block of independent springs, as well as multi-pack and micro-pack blocks.
• "Galaxy Standard". A collapsible lattice base with a metal frame, wide birch slats and rubber lath holders. Height – 3 cm.
• Promtex-Orient A1. Collapsible base made of chipboard with wide battens and overhead plastic holders.
• "Ormatek Multilamel". A wooden collapsible base with narrow slats, overhead plastic holders and stiffness regulators along the entire length. Height – 8 cm. Maximum load is higher than other gratings – 200 kg.
• DreamLine Dream. Steel frame with wide mortise slats 2.5 cm high, there is a collapsible version.
• Base with a lifting mechanism from Ormatek. Metal grille with wide MDF slats, overhead plastic lattices and gas shock absorbers.

What does the bed base consist of?

If everything is clear with a solid base for a bed: it is a plywood sheet or boards attached to the bed frame, then the structural features of the orthopedic lattice should be examined in more detail and find out which base for the bed is better.

A slatted orthopedic base is much more complex in its configuration than a solid base for a bed. It is made of straight or concave slats placed at a short distance from each other. The lamellas are attached to the frame using special fasteners - mortise or overhead lat holders. Lat holders are made of rubber or plastic.

Rubber holders provide a springing effect, which gives the bed base a “soft” feel. But if a high mattress of 20 cm or more is used, then this becomes noticeable.

The slats are made from beech, birch and pine wood. It is the properties of wood that give the lamellas different levels of elasticity and reliability. Beech slats are characterized by increased strength and elasticity; their price will be more expensive than their budget counterparts. Such lamellas can withstand even high loads. For people of average weight or teenagers, bases with birch or pine slats are suitable.

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.

How to choose an adult and children's mattress for a bed, tips for housewives

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.

Typical and unusual shapes of bed frames, standard dimensions

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.

Types of bases

Lattice or orthopedic bed bases have various modifications. There are different types of bed bases according to the following parameters:

• Frame type. Manufacturers make metal bases that can last for decades, plastic and wooden grilles.
• Presence of legs. The lattice can be an independent structure on legs or made in the form of separate slats that are installed in the bed structure.

What types of bed bases are there:

• Collapsible. This design is convenient to transport. It consists of the following elements: frame, lamellas (slats), lath holders and legs. The structure is easy to assemble according to the instructions. The orthopedic properties of the base are preserved.
• Solid bases. Ready to use variety. They are produced solid or in the form of an orthopedic lattice made of wood or metal.
• Lifting. These models have a lifting mechanism (manual, gas, spring) that raises the base and provides quick access to the drawers under the mattress. The design will be convenient for small bedrooms and saves space.
• Frameless (liners). They are a tape of lamellas fastened together. The mobile design does not have legs or lathe holders. Installing such a base is very simple - just insert the flexible structure into the bed frames.
• Transformable. This is a premium orthopedic lifting bed base. Thanks to a special mechanism, the transforming base can be adjusted taking into account the position of the body. The structure is lifted by manual adjustment or by remote control. So, for reading or watching TV shows, the head of the bed can be raised. The lower part of the base also rises for a comfortable position of the legs.
• With adjustable hardness. For comfortable use of the base, a design with the ability to adjust rigidity has been created. If you are faced with the question of which bed base to choose, we recommend that you pay attention to this option. Using special attachments on the lamellas, you can change the rigidity of the base, taking into account specific requirements and health conditions. For example, add rigidity structures in the lumbar region. In some models, each slats can be adjusted.

Purpose and principle of operation

The task of the orthopedic lattice is to distribute the load created by the body of a resting person, and at the same time maintain the anatomy of the spine in a natural position. The mattress, under the influence of gravity, transfers the load to the convex elastic lamella, which, in turn, bending, compensates for the pressure of the compressed mattress filler at a specific point.

When producing such parts, a responsible manufacturer takes into account the anatomical characteristics of a person and divides the base structure into zones of different rigidity. Comfort from using orthopedic models is achieved due to almost no sagging sections of the lattice in the lumbar region of the future consumer and a softer zone at the level of the shoulder girdle and legs.

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Orthopedic base

Many buyers wonder why a bed base is needed if an expensive orthopedic mattress is purchased along with the furniture. Are the additional costs for purchasing an orthopedic base justified?

What is an orthopedic bed base and why is it better than other types of bed bases? An orthopedic base is a special design made of a frame and lamellas, with the help of which the orthopedic qualities of a mattress placed on this base are enhanced.

The slatted orthopedic base, due to its shock-absorbing properties, allows you to create an ideal platform for an orthopedic mattress. This is the best base for a bed because it provides the sleeper with a beneficial effect on the spine, back and neck muscles. Promotes proper rest and restoration of the body.

Advantages of an orthopedic base

An orthopedic bed base has a number of advantages compared to a solid base made from a plywood sheet. Over time, the plywood base is pressed under the weight of the sleeper. This does not happen with orthopedic bases due to the convex lamellas, which provide resistance to the applied load. Due to the shock-absorbing lamellas, an additional orthopedic effect is created and the mattress does not deform in areas of the highest pressure.

Orthopedic bases from a high price category are made of beech wood, which is characterized by increased elasticity and durability. Manufacturers use original technologies in the manufacture of such bases, for example, installing double lamellas to enhance elasticity and better load distribution. This provides the sleeper with quality support.

The undoubted advantage of bases with an increased number of flexible elements per unit area is an orthopedic supporting effect, unloading of the spine, comfort and convenience during sleep. The mattress and the base duplicate the relief of the body, providing maximum comfort and complete rest.

The use of double slats equipped with a slider-regulator will allow you to manually add the required level of rigidity to the sleeping area. Choosing a bed base with wide slats is recommended for overweight people. Manufacturers also offer bases with the possibility of differentiated support for several sleeping areas.

What to choose: orthopedic bed base or flat solid one

Often, when buying a new orthopedic mattress, people wonder if there is a difference in the bases of the bed if they are planning a multifunctional anatomical mattress. Some experts believe that the base of the bed determines how stably the mattress will rest on it and whether it will be ventilated. And also, will the bed be silent?

Experts believe that the base of the bed determines how stably the mattress will rest on it and whether it will be ventilated.

Let's look into this issue.

What types of bed bases are there?

Modern bed bases are divided into two types: solid and otropedic (slatted).

Solid bases:

Figuratively, this type of coating is presented in “different styles”:

• Classic

The target audience of supporters of a sleeping place with a solid base notes such advantages of the design as:

1. Universal for mattresses of any type (from thin coverings to heavy high anatomical mattresses that do not need additional orthopedic functions of the bed);
2. A flat, hard surface is indicated for people with diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
3. The cost of beds with a solid base is lower compared to other types;

Classic solid base for a mattress.
The flat sheet can be made from plywood, planed boards, fiberboard (fibreboard) and chipboard (compressed particleboard). It attaches directly to the bed frame. A transverse support is secured in the middle of the structure to ensure its strength. It is monumental and does not creak. The material is treated with protective anti-corrosion and decorative agents.

The flat sheet can be made from plywood, planed boards, fiberboard (fibreboard) and chipboard (compressed particleboard).

The disadvantages of classic beds include difficulty in repairing and bulkiness. But, if you are a follower of the “good old traditions,” then a high-quality orthopedic mattress can make your rest complete and enjoyable.

• Modern

In small rooms, in hotels, in attics with non-standard layouts, box spring beds are in demand.

Well-known manufacturers offer models made from high-quality wood. They are moisture resistant and durable.

The unique design of the “boxes” lies in their “two-layer” design:

1. The bottom layer of the base consists of an orthopedic spring mattress. The stacked blocks promote the anatomically correct position of the human body during sleep;
2. The top covering is a mattress of the desired softness or hardness;
3. Thanks to special fastenings, two single beds can be combined into a double bed;
4. For mobility, indoor rearrangements are equipped with wheels;
5. Affordable.

Well-known manufacturers offer models made from high-quality wood. They are moisture resistant and durable. Fits perfectly into any modern interior.

• Eastern traditions

The most interesting and practical option for a bed with a solid base is podiums. The idea for these beds comes from Japan. And in this country, people always respect their health and the functionality of objects:

1. The mattress is placed on a homogeneous hard surface, which has a beneficial effect on the condition of the spine;
2. As a rule, the bases are equipped with modules (drawers) for storing bed linen and things;
3. Safe for small children to sleep and stay in, as you can purchase a low design;
4. They save space due to their dimensions (if the mattress is laid only at night, then you can lead an active lifestyle all day on the podium). These models are very popular in studio apartments;
5. They are manufactured mainly “to order”, thereby maximally satisfying the client’s wishes;
6. The price varies from “economy” to “luxury”, depending on dimensions, materials and filling modules.

The base is a podium, the idea of ​​these beds comes from Japan.

The main disadvantage of beds with a solid base, if it is devoid of ventilation holes, is that the mattresses on them do not “breathe” and they must be turned over frequently.

Orthopedic lattice bases:

Bed bases with latoflex coverings have proven themselves to be excellent in home bedrooms. They consist of a metal or wooden frame, slats made of different materials and supports (legs). The structure can be equipped with a lifting mechanism.

Bed bases with latoflex coverings have proven themselves to be excellent in home bedrooms.

The bases on the metal frame are placed independently in the bed frame. And wooden ones can be connected to the sides of the bed from the inside.

The bases on the metal frame are placed independently in the bed frame.

Bases with slatted coverings have two types:

1. With slats equipped with shock-absorbing components (a shock absorber is attached to the end of each bar). They are designed to support the mattress and relieve pressure on the sleeping area;
2. With racks without shock absorbers. Such structures can withstand increased loads. They will not come into “conflict” with the properties of reinforced orthopedic mattresses.

A shock absorber is attached to the end of each bar.
Also, the orthopedic base can be built into the bed frame, or can be installed in the body, independently supported on its own legs (the kit can include from 4 to 7 pieces on the frame). They are made from durable material, with a height of 22 to 25 cm. The height of the base depends on them. Take into account the height of the future mattress cover.

Adjustable bases:

Models with transformable slats, for those who like to read in bed or for bedridden patients, require manual adjustment of the following positions of the base:

• Adjustable softness and hardness:

These bases have adjusters that control the desired softness or hardness of the bed. They are installed in the lumbar region. These beds are suitable for couples of different weights.

Adjustable softness and hardness of the slats.

• Adjusting the height of the head and foot of the bases:

Adaptations for this option do not affect the overall quality of the design. Technical features are designed by the manufacturers for long-term operation of the model.

Technical features are designed by the manufacturers for long-term operation of the model.

• Lifting mechanisms

Most modern beds have a lifting base. This is a very practical solution:

Firstly, in this design you can install a laundry box the size of the entire bed.

Secondly, it provides access to all remote places during wet cleaning.

Most modern beds have a lifting base.

Choosing a bed base

Experts from the Mister Slip online store in Moscow tell you how to choose a base for a bed.

• If you need to arrange a temporary sleeping place, for example, in a rented apartment or country house, give preference to products with wide slats and mortise-type lath holders. These designs are distinguished by the most affordable price.
• To equip a permanent bed, pay attention to bases with narrow slats and rubber lat holders. These models represent the optimal combination of comfort, versatility and reasonable cost.
• To create the most comfortable sleeping place, bases with expanded functionality and the ability to adjust rigidity are recommended. By individually adjusting the degree of comfort for a specific zone or several zones, the body recovers faster during sleep and improves well-being.
• For those who prefer progressive solutions, manufacturers offer motorized base options. The owner of such a design will have the opportunity to ensure maximum control over a comfortable body position without effort and without even getting out of bed.

How to choose a suitable orthopedic grille

In order for the orthopedic bed frame to perform its functions 100%, when choosing a model you must adhere to simple rules:

1. Any base is selected for a specific type of mattress. There is no point in using a cheap mattress in combination with an expensive lattice, because the base only extends its service life and provides an enhanced orthopedic effect.
2. For mattresses made on the basis of a block of independent springs, a base with a small pitch of lamellas would be optimal. Otherwise, the pressure of the springs trapped in the inter-rack space will lead to damage to the filler. Therefore, for such models, bases with a frequent arrangement of slats are suitable, which is considered ideal for any mattresses.
3. The profile height of the standard base is 3 cm. Grilles equipped with additional functions may be slightly higher. Therefore, it is important to consider how the trellis will fit into the bed frame and how much the mattress will protrude from the side walls.
4. It is necessary to pay attention to the technical characteristics of the frame, the method of fastening and the number of lamellas. There must be at least 12 wide or 22 narrow bars in a row.
5. You need to measure your sleeping area very accurately. The grille must be positioned firmly and securely in the bed frame. The dimensions of the mattress and the base must clearly match, otherwise the bedding will move out. Common sizes of bars and corresponding mattresses are: 90 × 200, 100 × 200, 140 × 200, 150 × 200, 160 × 200, 180 × 200 or 200 × 200 cm.

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Tips for choosing, summing up

What should you consider when choosing a bed frame? The choice primarily depends on the following important points:

• What kind of mattress did you buy;
• Are additional features required?

If for medical reasons you are advised to sleep on a hard surface, your option is a solid base. If you buy a budget mattress, be sure to purchase an orthopedic base. In this case, the slats will provide the necessary orthopedic effect and increase the comfort of the sleeping place.

And if you purchased a springless mattress, then choose slatted bases with wide slats. Narrow slats can be used with both a spring mattress and a springless one. This is a universal option that will ensure uniform load, protect the mattress from deformation and provide it with good ventilation.

If you are used to not only sleeping in bed, but, for example, watching TV shows, it is best for you to buy a transformable base. You will have the opportunity to raise the headboard or, conversely, raise the leg area at any time. The base with a lifting mechanism, equipped with a linen compartment, is a real find for those whose bedroom is too small and it is problematic to place wardrobes and chests of drawers in it.

By purchasing a rack base, you get a repairable structure. If one or even several lamellas fail, you can easily replace them yourself with new elements.

Types of bases by type of lamellas and lath holders

The configuration of the lamellas can be straight or convex, and their width varies from 3 to 9 cm. When choosing a suitable base, you need to focus on the purchased mattress, which can consist of independent spring blocks, dependent Bonnel spring blocks, a monolithic or multilayer slab (“ springless").

Wide slats

The width of such slats is 6–9 cm, less often up to 12 cm. They can be mortise or overhead.
The distance between the slats is 5–7 cm. Plus - affordable cost.

The downside is the gradual deformation of the mattress covering layers at the points of contact between the lamellas and the frame.

Wide slats are suitable for:

• springless mattresses;
• products with a dependent spring block;
• spring models with a low spring density (210–300 pieces per sq. m.) and a layer of hard filler like coconut coir.

Narrow slats

Slats of this type are 3–5 cm wide with a distance between them of 3–4 cm.
Plus, elastic narrow slats allow the base to be more flexible and provide optimal adaptation to loads.

The downside is that such lattice structures belong to the more expensive segment of orthopedic bases.

Narrow slats are used to support all types of mattresses, including:

• products with high spring density;
• soft “springless”;
• mattresses for orthopedic cribs.

Types of lath holders

Holders for slats are divided into 3 types (see photo):

• Mortise. Usually made of plastic, the slats are fixed directly into the body of the metal frame. Can only be used with wide slats. The disadvantages of mortise models include the rapid appearance of squeaking.
• Plastic overhead. They are located on top of the frame in grooves. The most common option.
• Rubber patches. They are fixed in the same way as plastic ones, and are equipped with an additional platform that reduces the load on the slats and extends their service life. Rubber allows you to withstand more weight and almost completely eliminates squeaking.

Mortise Lat Holders

Plastic overhead holders

Rubber holders USEFUL INFORMATION: Children's mattress with coconut filling