Are Wooden Slats Better than Metal? (12 Pros and Cons)

Have you ever wondered if your treasured natural fiber mattress is getting the support it deserves?

Box spring or bed slats: which is better? Are Wooden Slats Better Than Metal?

Do I even need to bother with a sustainable bed frame at all?

These are just a few of the many mattress support emails I see in my inbox daily, so I decided it’s time to pop on my obsessive research cap again and get you all the answers you’ve been looking for.

In this article, I’ll use my sleepy expertise to cover everything you need to know, with the main focus being on metal Vs. wooden slats.

I’ll thoroughly explore the pros and cons of both materials so that you can make an informed decision about which one will work best for you…and the planet!

Box Spring Vs. Bed Slats: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to mattress support, there are two major contenders, box springs and bed slats.

Both have their pros and cons, so let’s take a look at what makes them unique.

Box Spring

The traditional go-to for mattress support has been the box spring, which usually consists of an internal frame of metal springs covered with fabric.

It’s a one-piece unit that provides support and cushioning for your mattress, as well as helps to keep it level and off the floor.

Pros:

• The metal of traditional box springs is durable and can often be purchased in different sizes to fit any bed frame.
• A box spring also adds height to the mattress, making it easier to get in and out of bed.
• Provide extra support for less supportive entry-level mattresses (such as a cheap innerspring mattress).
• Can provide extra spring to your mattress.

Cons:

• Box springs can be expensive.
• They also take up quite a bit of space.
• Box springs are only sometimes eco-friendly, as some metal frames and fabrics are challenging to recycle.
• Not suitable for use with a latex or memory foam mattress.

Bed Slats

More recently, bed slats have become a popular alternative for mattress support.

They work similarly to box springs but with less material.

Bed slats are often connected together and sometimes covered with fabric for stability and security.

The other main way of using bed slats is for individual slats to be rested across the bed frame. The slats are then often screwed in to stop them from moving.

Pros:

• Bed slats are often more affordable than box springs, so you can save money while boosting the level of support your bed frame offers.
• They’re also lighter and easier to move around, so if you change rooms or need to store them, they won’t be a hassle.
• Bed slats allow for better airflow from under your bed frame to your mattress. This can help aid with cooler sleeping and also prolong the life of your mattress (by keeping it dry and free from mold).

Cons:

• Bed slats may provide less cushioning and support than a box spring if the mattress is cumbersome.
• If the slats are too far apart, your mattress might start to sag.

Wood Bed Slats Vs. Metal Bed Slats

If you choose bed slats over a box spring, your next decision is metal slats or wood slats.

Wood Bed Slats

Wood slats are a good choice for eco-friendly, dependable mattress support.

The best woods for bed slats include ash, beech, and pine. Ensure that the wood has been kiln-dried to help prevent warping.

Pros:

• If properly maintained, wood slats last longer than metal and retain their shape better over time.
• They also provide more cushioning and support than metal slats due to the natural flexibility of wood.
• When sourced sustainably (certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), for example), wood is a renewable resource, meaning it has a lower environmental impact.

Cons:

• Wood slats can be more expensive than metal ones, depending on the type of wood you choose.
• They’re also susceptible to warping over time if not correctly cared for.
• Wood slats can also be a good hiding place for bed bugs - if you get an infestation, you'll need a non-toxic bed bug spray to get rid of them.

Metal Bed Slats

Metal slats are a good option for those looking for an inexpensive and lightweight solution.

Pros:

• Metal slats are cheaper than wood slats and more portable because of their lightweight construction.
• They won’t warp over time like wood can.
• Some metal slats can be adjusted to different levels of support, making them ideal for those who need adjustable mattress support.

Cons:

• Metal slats don’t provide as much flex and cushioning as wooden ones.
• They’re also often not very eco-friendly due to the resources needed to make and recycle them.
• Can be noisy/squeaky.

Other Mattress Foundation Types

Box springs and slats are the most common mattress foundations, but there are other options you might want to consider.

Platform Bed Frames

A platform bed is a solid bed frame (usually a wooden bed frame) that supports the mattress directly.

There is no need for an additional foundation with platform beds.

Adjustable Base

Adjustable bases are like a giant remote-controlled (or manually adjusted) box spring.

They can be adjusted to various positions and heights to provide extra support and comfort for your mattress.

Bunkie Board

A bunkie board is a thin piece of plywood that acts as a simple foundation for the mattress.

They’re ideal if you want to raise your mattress slightly higher off the ground or prefer a more minimalist look.

Solid Foundation

A solid foundation replaces the slatted foundation with one piece of solid wood or plywood.

Divan

Divan bed frame bases are similar to box springs but are typically more sturdy and supportive.

They often come with built-in drawers for extra low profile under-bed storage space.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Weight Can Slats Hold?

The amount of weight a bed slat can hold will depend on the type of slat you have.

Generally, metal slats can support up to 300-400 pounds, while wood slats can support up to 600-800 pounds. Make sure to check with your specific product for an accurate weight limit (this should have been tested) to ensure you’re getting adequate support.

Do Bed Slats Break Easily?

Bed slats won’t break easily if properly maintained and correctly spaced.

Should My Slats Bend And Flex?

Yes, slats should bend and flex a little to provide cushioning and sufficient support for your mattress. However, too much movement might cause them to break over time. If you feel your slats are moving too much, consider using one or two support legs in the middle of your bed.

Can I Make My Own Slats?

Absolutely. I cover this in more detail in my platform bed building guide.

What is a Sprung Slat Bed?

Sprung wooden slats are designed with a slight curve to provide extra cushioning and support for your mattress. When using sprung slats, ensure you use them the right way up.

The Final Word

Wooden or metal planks…which is better for a slat bed?

The answer really depends on your budget and needs.

Wood slats are more eco-friendly and provide better cushioning and support, but they can be expensive.

Metal slats are cheaper but may not provide the same level of support and are harsher on the environment. They can also become annoyingly squeaky over time.

If you’re always looking for the most eco-friendly option like me, then wood slats are definitely the way to go.

If you’re on a tight budget and just need something reliable, metal slats will do the job.

Want more insight on the metal or wood debate? Check out my Metal Vs. Wooden Bed Frame article.

Get In Touch

Do you use metal or wooden bed slats? Do you prefer the warmth of wooden beds or the easy maintenance of metal beds? Drop me a line and let me know.