What is a Split Box Spring?

Although enjoying a new, comfy bed is one of the best feelings there is, getting to that point can be quite the ordeal. There are so many mattresses and bed sets to choose from, if you don’t have an idea right off the bat what you’re looking for, searching for the perfect bed setup can seem like a daunting task.

Should you choose a platform bed or get a box spring? What size bed and mattress should you look for? What is the budget? What are you looking for specifically in terms of body comfort and relaxation? How big of a space are you willing to take up with a new bed?

Space is typically the number one factor when searching for a new bed, next to comfortability, of course. The bigger the bed, the bigger your box spring is going to have to be if that’s the route you choose. Most people are relatively familiar with a box spring, but what is a split box spring?

Split models could either be a helpful asset to the bed search process or not be suitable for your lifestyle. We’ve got all kinds of helpful info on split box types, all you have to do is keep reading!

What is a Split Box Spring?

A box spring is a covered set of springs housed in a mattress shaped frame meant to add support and durability to a mattress. Typically sitting on a frame, a box not only adds firmness to a regular mattress, but it can elevate a bed that will make it easier to get in and out of. They are a traditional way to add height and strength to a bed, and are typically bought together as a set with a mattress.

A split or divided box brings all these factors of a regular model into the mix, only in two separate pieces. Usually, they can be heavy and hard to move, especially with sizes like Queen and King, whereas a split model can be moved in pieces making it a much less cumbersome job. Split models typically come in two pieces and fit into place exactly as a regular box spring would, just without the difficulty.

Imaging trying to fit a large box up a tight set of stairs? Mattresses can be folded or rolled, so you won’t find much issue there even in the tightest spots, but boxes cannot bend at all. Split models make it so even one person could easily move each section at a time. This saves manpower and overall hardships in the moving process.

Pros
  • Easy to move
  • Less cumbersome than standard box spring
  • Would be great for a constant mover
  • Lighter
Cons
  • Can be a hassle to worry about two parts
  • May cause gap from sliding
  • May not be good for sensitive sleepers
  • May not work out in the long run

Benefits of a Split Box Spring

As stated before, the major benefits of a split type of model are the ease in moving them. Breaking up a standard one piece box into two lighter pieces makes any moving process a breeze and saves a lot of space in the moving truck. Even if you aren’t planning on moving from apartment to apartment or house to house very often, having a split structure will help even if you’re just moving a bed set from one room to another.

These things can go upstairs, go down hallways and up ramps much easier than a standard type since boxes in general aren’t foldable or malleable. They need to be strong and sturdy to support the weight of a mattress and sleepers, so the heavier the box is, the better. Since a two piece box is essentially just two of the same structure, this brings the best of both worlds with ease.

These would normally be best for the elderly since they are easier to move and won’t need many people to help lift them, typically. Of course every person is different, but it is much more cumbersome to move a standard box than a split one. A split box would also be beneficial for the constant mover or a college student who is in and out of apartments or dorms.

Downsides to a Split Box Spring

A major downside to the split two piece box is the slippage factor. No matter how tight the frame to the bed may seem to be, since this is a normal design split into two halves, you could definitely feel the effects of the mattress slipping apart and creating a gap. The frame of the bed would need to be tightened to squeeze the two halves together tightly, otherwise this could prove to be a problem.

Since there are two halves to it, along with slipping, the middle gap could be prevalent. Whether you’re a sensitive sleeper or not, sometimes that groove in the middle could become bothersome. You know that metal bar right in the middle of a fold out couch bed? The gap groove would be a little like that, just not as intrusive, hopefully.

Another downside could be the ease of use. Although not having to drag around a heavy structure would sound great to some, some people just prefer things to be easy and require no assembly. If you’re someone who doesn’t mind toting around two halves to a wooden structure, then a split design would be ideal for you. But, if you’re someone who just wants a moving company to set all the bed pieces together at once, then you may just want to stick with a standard one piece model.

Conclusion

Depending on what’s more comfortable for you and your sleeping environment, a split design for your bed could be a blessing or a curse. If you’re a sensitive sleeper who would definitely lose sleep over the middle groove or gap, then it may not be your go-to when elevating and supporting a mattress.

If you do, however, think two pieces to a standard design is a great idea since it will be so much easier to move, then you’d probably really like it. Everyone is different and everyone should take all these things into consideration before making a major purchase. But thankfully, a lot of these pieces of furniture come with a warranty, so make sure to choose a product that comes with a sleep trial so you can see for yourself before committing to a forever purchase.

So what do you think? Leaning toward the split model for your next bed set? Let us know! If you have any comments, experience or insight into whether or not you should buy a split box spring, feel free to respond in the comments.

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