Last Updated on July 18, 2021 by
Unless there is excess moisture in the basement that can wet your box spring mattress, the plastic covering it should be removed. A mattress has a fabric-covered wooden or metal framework known as a foundation (also called a box spring). Its purpose is to ventilate and support a mattress.
A foundation is primarily padded to match the mattress and vent body moisture and heat from the bed. The plastic packaging needs to be removed for this feature to work well. The purpose of the plastic is usually to shield your mattress from stains during shipping. It is also helpful when moving the mattress from the warehouse to your home.
This article looks at the pros and cons of having plastic wrap for box springs and the different box spring designs available. Read on!
Why Should You Remove The Plastic From Your Box Spring?
While the plastic on your box spring shields it from dust and other unwanted things like bugs, leaving it on has its disadvantages which include;
Slipperiness
A packaging plastic on your box spring will make your mattress slide, and be challenging to hold in position while you sleep. Since the plastic is slippery, you will not enjoy your sleep the whole night as you will have to keep adjusting your mattress.
It Causes Molds
The plastic wrap will prevent your mattress from getting ventilation when it stays in it for long. Lack of proper air circulation in the box spring leads to mold growth which will eventually damage it. Molds result from the dampness in the box spring, leading to a foul smell, making your sleep uncomfortable.
Harmful To Health
The plastic wrap is usually chemically processed, and inhaling these chemicals may be a health hazard. Since you cannot avoid breathing in these chemicals while you sleep, it is better to remove the plastic cover.
It Makes The Box Spring Look Cheap.
While plastic wrap will make your box spring remain intact and looking new, it also gives it a cheap appearance. Having the plastic does not make it trendy or contemporary looking.
Are There Any Advantages Of Leaving The Plastic Wrap On Your Box Spring?
Keeping the plastic wrapping on your box spring has its pros as well, which include;
Ease Of Maintenance
When you leave the plastic on your box spring, it is easy to maintain since it repels dirt. A box spring needs regular maintenance, and keeping the cover will minimize the effort.
Protects The Piece From Mites
Mites creep onto your mattress and bed at night. Keeping the cover on is one sure way of preventing these crawling creatures from getting into your box spring.
Prevention Of Dust
A covered box spring is easy to keep away from dust. A mattress that is not covered absorbs a lot of dust, which is unhygienic but requires a lot of maintenance. Leaving the plastic on will protect your mattress and make it easy for the sleeper to breathe appropriately.
It Helps To Retain The Value
Since the plastic wrap protects your box spring from dust, dirt particles, and mites, it will remain to look new for longer. If you want to exchange this piece or sell it to someone, it will give you a reasonable price, unlike when you remove the cover.
What Is The Purpose Of A Box Spring?
Most mattresses have a foundation, box spring, or a platform between them and the floor to provide firmness. Box springs help minimize wear and tear by absorbing impact on the mattress, especially those with thinner overall profiles. A box spring also helps to raise the mattress’s height. Doing this enables you to get in and out of bed quickly.
A box spring produces a sturdy, flat, and stable structure and surface on which a mattress sits. Lack of a foundation prevents airflow, which may lead to unhygienic conditions.
How Do Box Springs And Foundations Compare?
Difference | Foundation | Boxspring |
Durability | Stable and support for a more extended period. More long-lasting than box spring | More prone to wear and tear, which leads to broken coils. |
Support | Provides more stable support to the mattress. Ideal for those who need firmer beds | It supports the mattress and gives enough bounce. |
Weight | It isn’t easy to transport since it is pretty heavy. | Less heavy than a solid foundation |
Compatibility | Perfect for hybrid, memory foam, latex, and innerspring beds | Ideal for innerspring beds |
Average cost (for queen mattress) | Between $200 and $500 | From $100 to $300 |
What Are The Different Designs And Types Of Box Springs?
Box springs have both low and high-profile designs. A standard high-profile box spring is 23cm (9-inches) high, while a low-profile one is 13 and 14cm (5 and 5.5-inches) in height. The different designs include;
Split Box Springs
This type of box spring comes in two different parts for ease of movement through the house. The two halves also make this item fit in tight corners.
Zero-Deflection Box Springs
This design comprises wooden slats, and the box springs may also have wires for added support. These springs match well with almost all modern mattresses and are also durable than other types.
Semi-Flex Box Springs
This kind of box spring has a wooden frame with a metallic grid above the slats. It offers excellent support with some bit of flex. Semi-flex box springs are ideal for denser mattresses like memory foam and latex.
Coil Box Springs
Coil box springs have coils and wooden frames that are spread out evenly within the structure. Since they are traditional, they may not provide maximum support for most modern mattresses. They are, however, perfect for innerspring mattresses.
Conclusion
Having a plastic cover on your box spring has its advantages and disadvantages. Whether you need to remove this cover or not depends on your preferences. The plastic film may prevent proper circulation of air between the mattress and the body leading to dampness. The wetness may cause health issues to the person sleeping on the bed and it is advisable to remove the plastic
