Hello,
I am new to the forum. Wasn’t sure of the best way to post a question - - seems there might be adjustments currently happening to that feature of the site, so I’d appreciate help from whoever might find this post and to reroute it if necessary to where it makes sense. Thank you!
Let me first say, that in my opinion, “The Mattress Underground” website is truly amazing!! I came across it about a week ago and have been so grateful for all the information and posts that are shared. My roommate is stunned with how much I’ve been reading about the topic of mattresses through this website and also how it has captured my interest with such enjoyment. The site has been So helpful.
The past few weeks I’ve been looking at and researching mattresses, and this search brought me to foundations. I recently realized that I need to get my foundation properly supported before I can get a new mattress and this is part of why I need a new mattress!
I have a platform bed frame with slats for a full sized mattress. I am likely going with a full latex mattress and have gotten recommendations from the manufacturer on how to modify my existing platform frame to best support that mattress - - (there are a few things I need to do). So, while I’m making adjustments and have my tools out, I am considering whether to re-position or add slats as well. The manufacturer’s website states that slats need to be spaced no more than 3″ apart, but closer is better. This is what I read everywhere… 3" or less to give proper support, but allow for air flow and to inhibit mold growth. So, I’m wondering what is that “closer is better, preferred smaller/less range”? And what might be too close that doesn’t allow enough air flow? Is 2 inches better, or less than 2 inches?
Currently my slats do range between 2 to 3 inches apart. The width of my slats are all about 2 and 5/8ths inch (2.6"). They are 3/4 inch thick. The slats are 10 or 11 inches up from the floor. I live in Massachusetts south of Boston about a mile and a half from the bay. I’m a petite woman that doesn’t sleep hot or perspire alot. The mattress I’m likely going to get is 9" dunlop latex with a cotton cover and there is about an inch of wool on the top side.
There is a slight possibility of choosing a hybrid mattress of pocketed coils and latex. I did read on another post that some such hybrid manufacturers recommend 1.5 to 2" max on slat spacing.
There are so many considerations in the construction, and am not sure whether it’s worth unscrewing all my slats to position them a little closer or more evenly and add an extra slat or two? It seems I didn’t support my last mattress and want to get it right this time, so I’m not putting out time and money for mattress shopping again too soon!
Also, related to this… Is it recommended to put a piece of cotton or wool cloth, or something else over the slats for the mattress to rest on that also helps with proper circulation? In past I had a cotton sheet just to protect from wood splinters, but didn’t know if something more specific is recommended for another purpose?
Thank you very much for any insights you can provide.
~Wren