---
title: "Sprung Slats"
description: "What sprung slats are, how they differ from solid slats, and why the gap between slats matters for your mattress."
url: "https://bedguide.co.uk/glossary/sprung-slats/"
category: "glossary"
primary_entity: "sprung slats"
date_published: 2026-10-21
date_modified: 2026-10-21
---

# Sprung Slats

> Sprung slats are curved, or bowed, slats that flex when weight is put on them. They usually sit in flexible end caps fixed to the bed frame. Solid slats are flat and do not flex in the same way. Measure the clear gap between slats and follow your mattress maker’s own limits.

**Definition.** Sprung slats are bowed wooden slats that flex under weight. They sit in flexible end caps on a bed frame.

Also called: bowed slats, flexible slats, sprung slatted base.

There is no single UK slat-gap rule that approves every mattress and frame. Wide
gaps can let some mattresses sag and may affect a warranty.

Wider frames need a centre rail with legs to the floor.

Full guide: [bed slats: solid vs sprung](/beds/slatted-bases). Also: [solid
slats vs sprung slats](/compare/solid-slats-vs-sprung-slats).

---

Source: https://bedguide.co.uk/glossary/sprung-slats/ · BedGuide — independent UK bed guide; paid links are labelled (see /how-we-make-money/). Facts checked against official sources where possible; see https://bedguide.co.uk/editorial-policy. Report an error: https://bedguide.co.uk/corrections.