Upholstered bed or box spring bed – which is better for you?
A restful night's sleep starts with the right bed and mattress. But when it comes to buying, many people ask themselves: what is the difference between an upholstered bed and a box spring bed? At first glance, both types look similar, but their construction and comfort levels differ significantly.
In this article, you will learn how upholstered beds and box spring beds differ, what advantages upholstered beds offer, what you should look for when buying one and why Italian designer beds from Alto are among the most popular sleeping furniture.
What is an upholstered bed?
An upholstered bed is a classic bed frame that impresses with its soft, padded look. Both the headboard and the frame are covered with fabric, leather or imitation leather.
Alto upholstered beds reinterpret this design philosophy. Inside is a sturdy wooden frame with a slatted base. The mattress is placed on top – just like a traditional bed.
The advantage:
An upholstered bed offers a cosy, comfortable design and can be perfectly colour-coordinated with your bedroom. Thanks to the combination and adjustment options of the slatted frame and mattress, the bed can also be ergonomically tailored to your individual needs.
Here are some Alto upholstered beds
What is the difference between an upholstered bed and a box spring bed?
The most important difference lies in the construction: in a box spring bed, a spring-loaded box, known as a ‘box spring’, replaces the classic slatted frame. A mattress is placed on top of this, and often an additional topper. In an upholstered bed, on the other hand, the mattress rests on a slatted frame, as is the case with conventional beds.
Does an upholstered bed have a slatted frame?
Yes, every upholstered bed has a slatted frame, which is either permanently integrated or loosely inserted. It provides ergonomic support for the mattress and contributes significantly to sleeping comfort. Loose slatted frames in particular offer excellent opportunities to improve ergonomics in the long term.
With box spring beds, the ergonomics must be right from the outset, as the base with spring cores cannot be adjusted.
Does the upholstered bed come with a mattress?
In most cases, the upholstered bed is delivered without a mattress so that you can choose your preferred mattress individually, for example a cold foam, pocket spring or gel mattress.
The Alto upholstered beds, which you can try out in our sleep centres, also do not include mattresses. This gives you the opportunity to choose the perfect mattress for you.
Box spring beds, on the other hand, are usually complete systems. As a rule, you can only choose the firmness of the mattress or from different topper variants.
Can you change the mattress on an upholstered bed?
Yes, that is one of the great advantages of this type of bed. As the mattress is not permanently attached to the bed, you can replace it at any time. This is particularly practical if your sleeping habits change or the mattress needs to be replaced after a few years.
A box spring bed, on the other hand, must be replaced in its entirety. An upholstered bed, on the other hand, has a modular design, which means that the bed, slatted frame and mattress are independent of each other and can be replaced at any time. In box spring beds, the mattress is usually covered with the same fabric as the bed. Therefore, with box spring beds, the entire bed must be replaced and not just the mattress.
How long does an upholstered bed last?
A high-quality upholstered bed can last 10 to 15 years or even longer, provided it is solidly constructed and made of sturdy materials. Models with a robust wooden frame and easy-care fabric cover are particularly durable. Alto upholstered beds are individually and carefully crafted from high-quality materials. They are not mass-produced industrial goods. In addition, the fabric cover can be removed and washed. However, this depends on whether the chosen cover material is washable. A replacement cover can also be ordered, which greatly extends the life of the bed.
Is an upholstered bed a good choice?
An upholstered bed is a good choice if you are looking for a versatile, durable and attractive bed that adapts to your individual sleeping style and if ergonomics are important to you. Whether classic, modern or Italian designer style, an upholstered bed ensures restful sleep and stylish nights.
Upholstered bed with storage space – the smart solution
An upholstered bed doesn't just have to be beautiful – it can also be practical. Upholstered beds with storage space or an upholstered bed with a bed base that offers space for blankets, pillows or bed linen under the lying surface are particularly popular.
Storage solutions are also possible with box spring beds.
Choosing the right size for an upholstered bed
Upholstered bed for single persons
Upholstered bed 120 × 200 cm:
Ideal if you sleep alone, have limited space in your room or primarily use the bed for relaxation (e.g. with a laptop or book).
Upholstered bed 140 × 200 cm:
Great comfort even for solo sleepers – plenty of space to stretch out and move around. Often still considered a single bed size, but almost a ‘couple's’ bed size. According to guidelines, widths from 120 cm are suitable for single persons if movement during sleep is desired.
Upholstered bed for couples
Upholstered bed 160 × 200 cm:
Good standard size for two people with normal space requirements. Each person has about 80 cm width – sufficient for many couples without great demands on freedom of movement.
Upholstered bed 180 × 200 cm:
Increased comfort – more freedom of movement, particularly suitable for different sleeping habits, if one person requires a lot of space or if you sleep on your side.
Upholstered bed 200 × 200 cm:
Luxury size – plenty of space for two adults, possibly with a child or pet in bed. Recommended if you have the space and budget.
Alto | Italian design | Upholstered beds with style
Italian designer beds perfectly combine form, function and elegance, making them the ideal choice for anyone who values aesthetics. The Italian brand Alto stands for timeless design, fine materials and the finest craftsmanship. Hand-sewn decorative seams or cross-stitches in contrasting colours are details that demonstrate the attention to detail.
An upholstered bed in Italian design impresses with its clean lines, fine fabrics and harmonious colours, which are often inspired by fashion and architecture. In Switzerland, such designer beds are real highlights for style-conscious bedrooms.
A visit to our sleep centres is well worth your while
Visit us and put together your dream bed. In addition to various upholstered bed models, you can choose from fabrics and leather options in all price ranges.
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