Slats in bed foundation

I have a Savvy Rest latex mattress. I would like to purchase a metal bed frame that has slats that are 4” apart. I know this is too wide. Is there anything I can do? Add slats to the bed?

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Hi Robin,

I am not certain the motivation on a frame with 4" spaced slats. Here are the perils and some solutions.

As you suspected, latex mattresses require a more supportive foundation, and the recommended spacing between slats is generally no more than 2.5 to 3 inches. If the slats are spaced too far apart, the mattress can sag between the gaps, which may compromise its comfort, support, and longevity.

One solution is to add extra slats to your existing bed frame. This can be done by measuring the interior width of the frame and purchasing additional 1x3 or 1x4 wooden slats to fill in the gaps, reducing the spacing to an acceptable level. It’s important to space them evenly and securely fasten them if necessary to prevent movement.

Another option is to place a bunkie board or a sheet of plywood over the slats to create a uniform, flat surface.

If using plywood, it should be at least 3/4 inch thick and cut to the size of your bed frame. Make sure the wood is sanded smooth to avoid damaging the mattress and consider drilling holes or choosing a ventilated board to allow for airflow and reduce the risk of trapped moisture. You can place a layer of coir above the plywood to increase airflow.

Latex can rest on a solid platform, although some environments are more humid than others. Only you know the climate of the room /home the mattress set-up is located.

Maverick

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Hi Maverick! If using coir on top of the plywood (in the latex bed set up), is drilling holes still necessary? I live in California so we don’t have a super humid environment, but definitely don’t want to take the risk of trapped moisture!

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Robin- slightly off topic but, how do you like your Savvy Rest mattress and which model did you purchase?? I have been eyeing them for a while!

No, you would not need to drill holes in the plywood. But… it is still a good idea to do so anyway.

The coir is effectively creating a place for the air to flow and help reduce any moisture build up, although it doesn’t completely eliminate the risk of trapped humidity underneath the latex. Moisture can still condense between the latex and the plywood. Holes in the plywood vent down through the bottom of the mattress, whereas coir is allowing air to pass through the sides, if the wood does not have any holes in it.

Latex is very breathable, but if you are spending this much on a mattress, take the safe route.

I would consider treating the wood with some non toxic type of coating to protect it from accumulating moisture. Home depot could probably offer some advice there.

Maverick

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I like the Savvy Rest mattress. I’ve had it awhile and no problems. I did have to experiment with the layers - I ended up with soft on top, medium under that and firm on the bottom. I don’t remember the model, unfortunately.

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I know someone who also has that layer set up from Savvy! Did you go with dunlop or Talalay?

I went with all Talalay as I like it the best.

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