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Ensemble Vs. Slat Beds

Annette Rivlin-Gutman

Humans sleep about one-third of their lifetime. Shouldn't a comfortable bed be a top priority? Between an ensemble and a slat bed, which is the best one to get? The biggest difference between a slat bed and a traditional box spring support bed is the frame. Ensemble beds have separate bed frames with a sturdy base to hold an innerspring mattress. A slat bed is a built-in bed frame with wooden slats that support a mattress without the use of a box spring. Here are some pros and cons of ensemble and slat beds.

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Ensemble or slats?

Slat Bed Pros

The comfort is in the mattress.

Slat beds are common in European design furniture and in some antique style beds. Many feel they are more aesthetically nicer looking. Slat beds can also accommodate storage underneath the bed. Another nice thing about a slat bed is that you only have to invest in one bottom sheet. Plus, they are portable and easy to dismantle.

Slat Bed Cons

If there is no center beam to support the slats, they can warp and break causing a person and the mattress to fall through to the ground. A slat bed may not be as sturdy as an ensemble bed frame. If you decide to go with the slat frame, the slats should be no more than 4 inches apart to give the mattress adequate support. Because of a slat bed designer look, the cost is usually slightly higher than an ensemble bed frame. Although it depends on the type of mattress you sleep on, some think that the lifespan of a mattress on a slat frame is shorter than one on a spring foundation.

Ensemble Frame Pros

Ensemble beds are made more solidly and most likely last longer than slat beds. For those who like a softer bed, you may want to go with the ensemble which is not as firm as a slat bed. According to people who prefer the ensemble to a slat bed, the ensemble can be quieter than the slats. They also say that they receive better support from a bed frame with box springs even though it is softer than the slat bed.

Ensemble Frame Cons

Ensemble bed frames have a simpler design and may be less aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Because there is a box spring, a second fitted sheet or a bed skirt is necessary to cover the bottom box. If you are in need of storage, an ensemble bed frame may not be for you because there is little room for extra storage under the bed.

It's Up to You

The best style of bed to get is ultimately up to you and what your needs are from a bed frame. Aesthetics might be a priority for one while level of firmness is a priority for another. As for comfort, it is all in the mattress and not in the bed frame alone.