Spring edging refers to the Divan base construction. It is a layer of springs [or other type of suspension] that gives the base a cushioned support for the mattress.
Despite it’s name, spring edging covers the entire top of the base. The most usual method is a two to three inch layer of springs fixed to the top of the base construction covered with upholstery prior to the covering being attached.
A very cheap way of offering a sprung edged base is the use of snake springs. These are similar to the spring support in a cheap sofa where a series of snake shaped wires are stretched across and fixed to the edge of the base. Not an ideal method at all and even though it is the most economical form of sprung edging – you do not usually benefit from paying a lower price.
Sprung edging on top of range bases consist of pocket springs and superior upholstery such as wool etc. This is not my market and so the details on this post refer to mass produced mattresses and bases.
The benefits of a sprung edged base is the increased comfort level from your mattress. Think of it like your mattress being on top of another mattress. It also contributes greatly to the lifespan of your mattress as the spring edging acts as suspension pistons taking any excess strain.
A sprung edged base is really only viable for pocket sprung mattresses, acting in conjunction with the pocket springs to give more suspension . Lo cost mattresses will gain no particular long term benefit. Also, as I say in my post about Divan Bases.. consider a purpose built bedframe rather than paying more for a souped up divan base.
There are not many [if any] downsides with a sprung edged base. The main one is that any storage drawers have a reduced height due to additional springs taking up 3″ of base height. Secondly, there is no edge support, so if you are prone to sitting on the edge of the mattress (a bad habit) the concentrated weight on a small part will make you feel like you are sliding off.
To add a sprung edge to your base see the options in the ‘upgrades‘ section. I have kept the prices at just above cost price, for example to have a full Superking Zip and Link set sprung edged will be just £95. A double base will be £65.
Can a wood slatted bed base be used in conjunction with a box spring?
Hi Ed. ‘Box Spring’ is an Americanism and I am not particularly sure what you are asking. Please offer some sort of clarification. John and Ryan.
Buying a car from scratch must be easier. I consider myself competant, informed,technically aware and financially savvy. I’ve spent my working life in teaching to University entrance level.
Yet the prospect/need to choose a replacement bed for my retirement becomes more of a problem the more I investigate.
It would seem to be the case that the retailers/ manufacturers mantra is, “confuse the consumer”.
Looks very like a “Cartel” to me !!
Can you think of anything else that every single one of us DOES, WILL and MUST buy and use every day of our lives
Hi Mr Johnson. You are absolutely right but please do not tar all of us with the same brush. To confuse the customer is right in some respect and this is balanced with to DECEIVE the customer. Recently Ryan and I found evidence that a major manufacturer has used / is using a blended component that contains Fine Horsehair, Cashmere and Wool. On the face of it, it sounds glorious and would instantly provoke you to place this particular mattress in your potential list of considerations. However, reading the detailed specification of this one component tells another story [of which you [and a retailer] would never be privvy] . The Fine Horsehair as an example mentioned, attributes to just 5% of the construction – This, in a 1000gsm pad accounts for a measly and pathetic 50 grams!
Obviously, the description of the finished mattress will be tailored to show all these ‘fillings’ as components which of course they are, but without any weight or percentage markers you are literally guessing / assuming as to what it is you are buying.
We fully understand your frustration and until manufacturers are forced by legislation to include a detailed specification sheet to accompany all products then this scenario will be ongoing. In a few weeks time we will be publishing our new site with full posts of similar examples as above. Please keep in touch and feel free to add more of your views. John and Ryan.