A Queen Bed: How Many Slats and What Type of Wood?

Number of Slats

• Queen-size, double and king-size beds with box springs typically only require three to four slats and a center support rail. Queen-size platform beds require a larger number of slats, between 10 and 15, and a center support rail. The number of slats depends on the width of the bed. Platform beds equipped with a full sheet of plywood or a bottom box spring can have fewer supporting slats.

Types of Wood

• There are many wood choices for bed slats. Pine, mahogany, cherry and just about any other wood is used to build the slats. The major difference is the price; pine typically runs a little higher than most other options. Choose the type of wood for slats based the color and type of wood of the bed frame.

Size of Slats

• The size of the wood for bed slats is more important than the type of wood. Wood thinner than 3/4 inch should not be used, because it is not strong enough to support a box spring. Wood bed slats are typically about 3 1/2 inches wide. On platform beds without box springs, they are spaced about 3 inches apart. Measure the width of the beds, and purchase wood slats longer than the width, then cut to exact size.

Cost

• Bed slats are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. The price depends on the size of the bed. A standard slat kit for a queen- or king-size bed frame costs between $100 and $200. Twin beds, however, typically cost between $30 and $60, since they are smaller and require less wood than a queen-size frame.