what are box springs for

A box spring is a type of bed base that is typically placed on top of a wooden or metal bed frame and consists of a sturdy wooden frame covered in cloth and containing springs. The purpose of a box spring is to support a mattress and elevate it off the ground at a comfortable height. They also improve airflow to help lengthen the lifespan of the mattress and increase its sturdiness and protection. Box springs were originally designed for innerspring mattresses, but most modern mattresses, including memory foam and latex, do not necessarily require a box spring. However, box springs can still be beneficial for some types of mattresses and bed frames. For example, platform beds grant the ventilation and stability that bed springs provide, but they lack springs that can absorb movement, which can make them less comfortable than box springs. Box springs can also absorb impact, reducing the wear and tear on the mattress, and raise the height of the mattress, which can be beneficial for those who struggle with getting in and out of a low-profile bed.