Ensemble beds
and bed bases

When shopping for your bed base, there are several key considerations to keep in mind.

• Match the correct size to your mattress. For instance, two standard Single-size bases will not support a King-size mattress. It is best to check your mattress size and ensure your bed base is a matching size, neither too big nor too small.
• Consider the space in your bedroom. The space that is available to you may dictate the type of bed base that you choose. For example, smaller bedrooms may not suit a storage bed base with drawers, depending on the drawer configuration. Ensure you have enough space around the bed to walk comfortably and open drawers or access other furniture in the room.
• Choose the right height and style. Some bed bases have swappable glides and castors, with various height options or stackable legs. Other bed bases may have timber feet that cannot be swapped or altered in any way, so be sure the height of the bed base with a mattress on top is both comfortable and suitable.

There are several types of bed bases in Australia, including:

• Ensemble bed base – fully upholstered bases designed to pair with your mattress. They typically feature internal springs for augmented support, prolonging the life of your mattress.
• Adjustable bed base – electric beds that raise at the foot and head to support health conditions or facilitate bodily recovery. They often feature technical benefits, such as device charging and massage functions.
• Storage bed base – designed with drawers underneath for added convenience and storage. These are often chosen for their style as well as functionality.
• Gas lift bed base – built-in storage accessed by lifting the mattress, using gas struts. These are preferable if there is no room to open drawers in the bedroom, but may not support the mattress as well as other bases.
• Slat bed frames and slat bases – these are ordinarily wooden frames with metal or wooden slats beneath the mattress. While they promote airflow, such bases are not always ideal, as they lack robust construction and may not support your mattress adequately over a long period.

• What does a bed base do?
  A bed base supports your mattress, lifting it off the ground and helping to distribute weight evenly across the surface. It also provides added comfort and airflow.
• What is an ensemble bed?
  An ensemble bed is a mattress and a bed base, usually a box spring or upholstered ensemble base. When you purchase a mattress and bed base together it is called an ensemble, making it a complete set.
• How many years should a bed base last?
  A bed base should last as long as your mattress, if not longer. It should be able to support your mattress for long-term, frequent use without losing support or functionality. Sealy bed bases come with a standard 10-year warranty. They are designed to withstand years of wear and tear, supporting your mattress over the life of the warranty.
• Can I use any mattress on any bed base?
  Not always. Some mattresses require specific base types for proper support and compatibility. Our adjustable bed bases require a mattress with FlexiCased® edge support, which is designed to flex and articulate with the base.
• Are slat bases better than solid bases?
  While slat bases are generally more affordable and allow for airflow, solid bases provide a firmer, more stable feel, supporting your mattress and prolonging its lifespan. If you have a slat base, ensure the slats are fixed to the frame to prevent movement. Ideally, slats should be spaced so that the gaps are not too wide.
• Does my bed base affect how my mattress feels?
  Yes. Your bed base influences how firm or responsive a mattress feels – if your base is old or poorly constructed, it can cause your mattress to dip. A base can also impact temperature regulation and general comfort throughout the night.
• Can you put a new mattress on an old ensemble bed?
  Yes, you can use your new mattress on an old ensemble bed base. If the base is still functional and able to provide the same support, there is no reason why you cannot continue to use it.