One of the most popular places is in bed. Nothing beats stretching out on the bed and unwinding after a difficult day. The last few peaceful moments of the day, just before you fall asleep, might be the most pleasant. A restful night's sleep is also a crucial component in getting ready for the following day. This is why having the proper mattress and support system below it is crucial. Most beds in the past consisted of a mattress, box springs, and some sort of frame to support them. Bunkie boards are available in many different forms, sizes and price ranges. We have included an extensive Bunkie board guide. It will help you choose the ideal Bunkie Board to meet your requirements. With that being said, let’s jump into this Bunkie Board cost guide.
What is a Bunkie Board?
Bunkie boards are lightweight mattress supports. They were created to provide support while you’re sleeping. They do so without adding additional height like box springs. They are considered to be box spring alternatives. Because of how common Bunkie Boards have become, they can be found in most furniture. Home decor stores as well as online retailers such as Amazon also stocks them. Although it is really thin, it has a solid platform that is wrapped in a layer of fabric. It has a 1 to 3 inch flat barrier. Bunkie boards are intended to fit between your mattress and the surface it lays on. It is often constructed of a type of wood.
It is compatible with all bed frames; those include:
History of the Bunkie Board
It was developed in the early 20th century. This type of support was allegedly used for bunk bed mattresses long before it was used on other beds. Bunkie boards were initially used as the foundation for a bunk bed mattress. Innerspring mattresses needed a box spring for support. The top bunk and the bottom bed would not be able to accommodate thick box springs well. Top bunk sleepers would bump into the ceiling. Bottom bunk sleepers would bump the bed above them if they had a mattress and box spring. Thus, the term "bunkie board." The name is abbreviated as "Bunkie”. It offered a platform support that was thinner than box springs. But also more consistent than slats.
Why Would You Need a Bunkie Board?
Nowadays, modern mattresses don't need a box spring. Examples of those are hybrid and memory foam mattresses. Modern mattresses may sag if they are not supported by a firm, level surface. For beds without a solid bed frame, Bunkie boards can be used. For older adults or even young kids, box springs are rather high. Bunkie Boards are a lot lower, which allows you to easily get on and off the mattress. It has also been known to provide your body with added comfort. You get to experience the calming sensation you have always desired while sleeping. Bunkie boards absorb the body's pressure while lying down. It then evenly distributes it throughout the mattress's surface. It eliminates the potential for your body to experience any discomfort.
How Do I Know If I Need A Bunkie Board?
If you have purchased or own a modern mattress such as:
and want to protect it but you don't have a solid base, then a Bunkie board is for you.
Bunkie boards are for bases that are not solid but that does not stop you from using them on one that is. A solid bed frame or base might not need a Bunkie board to support the mattress, however, it can be used to add in height. It is able to provide added height without compromising the structure of the frame. If you have an adjustable bed, do not use a Bunkie board. It will restrict the bendability of the frame.
Bunkie Board vs. Box Spring
Initially, the innerspring mattress above was exalted with conventional box springs. Spring coils were included in both layers. They worked together to control pressure and weight distribution. Today, however, the majority of box springs are made of a wood or metal box with a fabric cover. They don't significantly increase the support or stability to the mattress on it. Since not all box springs have a stable base, most hybrid or foam mattresses cannot be placed on them.
It is recommended to get rid of your old box spring when using a more contemporary bed. Experts suggest to set up your new foam mattress on a Bunkie board or a firm base instead. To provide a sturdy base for the mattress, you may place a Bunkie board on top of your box spring if you choose to keep it.
However, before doing so, confirm the guarantee/warrantee on your mattress. Certain warranties could outright forbid using a box spring. Additionally, be sure your box spring can support the weight of a foam mattress and a Bunkie board.
Can You Use Plywood Instead of a Bunkie Board?
Yes, you can. Underneath your mattress you can place a robust piece of plywood/;.. This will take the place of a Bunkie board. Plywood that is at least 3/4 of an inch thick and the precise dimensions of your bed should be used. This is a cheaper alternative. Be sure your mattress and frame have accurate specifications, else it won't fit snugly. Should you keep your box spring, you may put this piece of plywood on top of it to shield your foam mattress from damage.
Although, a Bunkie board will last longer and offer superior damage prevention. It will also look cleaner compared to a piece of plywood. Plywood is prone to developing chips and might catch on your mattress and even bedding. Unlike plywood, Bunkie boards are sized and treated to support your mattress. This makes them a more convenient and secure option over time.
Bunkie Board vs. Slats
The majority of latex mattresses cannot be set up on a slatted base if the slats are spaced apart by more than 2 inches. Bed slats shouldn't be wider than 2.75 inches apart for memory foam mattresses. These foam beds can easily sustain damage if they are placed on the wrong surface. The reason for this is because they won't be able to provide adequate support.
Most contemporary bed frames are either made of wood or fabric. They have a slatted foundation. To be sure your new bed is on the right base, it is essential to study the mattress guarantee. Instead of bothering to measure the space between each slat, you may purchase a Bunkie board . These types of bases will protect your mattress. They will also guarantee that your warranty is upheld.
Where to Buy a Bunkie Board?
You may choose from a wide assortment of Bunkie boards while purchasing online. Additionally, Bunkie boards are sold in stores that offer mattresses and bedroom furnishings. You may usually get help from furniture stores in finding the Bunkie board that you need. Finding the ideal size Bunkie board is simple when utilizing standard bed measurements. Correct measurements can be found in a mattress shop or even online.
How Much Will a Bunkie Board Cost?
Bunkie boards can cost anything from $50 to $150. The price will rise as the bed becomes bigger. There will probably be a price difference between a king and double Bunkie board. Stains and finishes can increase the price due to them being decorative features. You could also come across certain bed frames that have a Bunkie board.
A Bunkie board is a practical and a cheaper foundation option, regardless of the frame you have at home.
Do I need to add a bunkie board if you have slats?
Slats that are not close together to hold the mattress will still need a Bunkie board. Slat spacing should not be greater than 2.75 inches for foam and hybrid mattresses. If not, the mattress risks sagging too soon.
Can you put a foam mattress on wooden slats?
Yes, the greatest support solution for a foam mattress may be wooden slats. Slats that have the correct width and thickness serve as support. The spaces between them encourage airflow. Wood is often preferred to be used as slats. Metal slats are frequently too thin and spaced too far apart for foam mattresses.
What type of mattress is best for wooden slats?
Wooden slats may support any kind of mattress, including foam and spring mattresses. If a sleeper has an innerspring mattress, they may want to put their bed on a box spring rather than just a row of slats. But, you can put hybrid, latex, and memory foam mattresses right on the slats of your bed.
Can you use a box spring with a memory foam mattress?
No, we do not advise using a box spring with a memory foam mattress. Memory foam mattresses cannot be supported by the box spring's coils. Their spacing is too wide. The likelihood of the bed sagging early increases when it is set on a memory foam mattress.
How thick should a bunkie board be?
Bunkie boards are made to fit specific mattress sizes. They range in thickness from one to three inches. Typically, they are covered with fabric. The fabric is relatively thin and does not increase the thickness by much. The fabric does however prevent the mattress foundation from becoming tangled or torn.
What is the best type of bunkie board?
The best type of Bunkie board has been greatly argued. This is due to personal preference but, let me break it down for you.
The strongest Bunkie board material is steel. In terms of weight bearing ability, steel makes the best Bunkie board material. If you need a Bunkie board for your loft bed or bunk bed, steel is a particularly appropriate material to use. This is due to the Bunkie board's visibility from below.
The next best option for durability after a steel Bunkie board with slats is a solid wood Bunkie board. Especially if you have a memory foam or latex mattress. Steel is too thin and spaced too far apart for foam mattresses.
Essentially, the best Bunkie boards are made of solid wood or steel. They can withstand humidity and other environmental factors without being damaged. Particle boards are the least immune to environmental deterioration. The layers of plywood can occasionally separate when the humidity is really high. Solid wood is more resistant to environmental influences. But, the weather may still cause changes in size and shape. Therefore, we are left with stainless steel Bunkie boards. They are not only resistant to climatic changes but also immune to termite damage.
Is a bunkie board better than plywood?
Yes, a Bunkie board is a better option to use rather than plywood. Bunkie boards are more durable than a thin piece of plywood. They are made to sustain the weight of a mattress. Typical Bunkie boards range in thickness from one to three inches. If you have to use it, we advise you to choose plywood that is at least an inch thick.
Be aware that plywood does come with its advantages and disadvantages. Plywood is an inexpensive option but, the layers can separate when the humidity is high.
Read your mattress' guarantee before putting a piece of plywood under it because doing so can void it. Specific instructions and warranty information should be on the warranty card. Most warranties are comprehensive. They state that any alterations to the bed's initial design are not covered.
Which is better bunkie board or slats?
To support your mattress, your bed will include slats made of wood or metal. Bunkie boards serve the same purpose, but they are more effective. In the Bunkie board vs. slats debate, bed slats run the risk of damaging your mattress by digging into it. Bunkie boards are flat surfaces so they will provide your mattress with more support. If you have a thick foam mattress, you may add a Bunkie board to your slats for further support.
What can be used instead of a bunkie board?
Plywood, slats, and box springs, are some Bunkie board alternatives. They can support your mattress and make your bed much more comfortable to sleep in. But in order to truly understand, let's break them down for you.
Plywood - it is also an alternative but, it falls more on to the DIY side of things. Plywood will need you to accurately measure the surface area but also allow you to customize it. Plywood does not expand nor does it shrink over time. Unfortunately, it is not as durable as a Bunkie board and does not provide any ventilation.
Slats - made from wood or metal, usually 2.7 inches apart. They can easily be removed and replaced should one break. They support hybrid, latex, and memory foam mattresses. They are one of the most popular alternatives. The gaps between the slats allow air to flow through easily. However, should the gaps between each slate be too far apart, the mattress could sag.
Box springs - Actually, Bunkie boards were intended to replace box springs. Especially because they are thinner and do not give your bed much of a lift. By absorbing body weight, box springs can increase the lifespan of certain mattresses. Box springs may add too much height to your bed. They also don't work as well with latex or memory foam mattresses.
Do you need a bunkie board if you have slats?
A Bunkie board or another foundation should be placed on top of the slats of your bed frame. It might be problematic to place a mattress directly on top of these slats. Reduced stability, early sagging, and pointless wear and tear are a few of them. Your mattress could also feel overly tight or firm.
How long does a bunkie board last?
A Bunkie board will typically last two to three years.
Steel and solid wood Bunkie's survive longer when compared to other materials. They are able to support more weight and are more resistant to alteration.
How much weight does a bunkie board hold?
The size of a Bunkie board will determine the amount of weight it can hold:
How much weight can wood slats hold?
The majority of slatted foundations can sustain up to 600 lbs. However, some are only intended to support 300 pounds. So, before buying, make sure to confirm the manufacturer's weight restriction.
What kind of wood is used for bunkie boards?
Bunkie boards are normally constructed from solid wood, plywood, or particle board. The Bunkie board is sometimes covered with cloth.
