Slats are the support pieces that run from side to side within the side rails of a bed frame.
These slats can be made from steel and incorporated into the bed frame itself.
Photo of Beech Sprung Slatted Base by Riverwood Bedmakers
The term “slats”, when used separately from the rest of the bedframe, usually refers to removable wooden (or plastic) slats that run side to side between the side rails of a bed frame that is made of either metal or wood.
The outside bed frame rails are made with a flanged shelf that the slats can rest upon.
- For added strength the slats are usually screwed into the bed frame side rails so that they cannot move.
- Some bed frames allow the slats to be loosely placed onto the flanged shelf without being attached.
Bedframes have at least two long rails that run from the head to the foot of the bed.
The space separating these two pieces will vary depending on the width of the mattress that is used.
- A third center rail is required for bed frames holding queen and king size mattresses.
- Without a center rail, the additional width would cause the cross member slats to bend and/or break.
Depending on the number and width of the slats it is possible for a mattress to be placed directly over the slats without a separate foundation (or box spring.)
- If there is too much spacing between the slats the mattress will fall through.
- If the mattress is thin or worn out, it may be possible to feel the slats (which reduces comfort.)
- This problem is particularly common with sleeper mattresses resting on frame mechanisms that include slats.
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