Expert: Eileen Cronk - 4/27/2010

Question
I have a single iron bed with round rails that fit in place with rounded ends, being it's round can't use wood slats, I need to support a mattress without box springs, I was thinking of attaching several straps to support the mattress.  What was used originally on these beds?  I heard that there were a spring frame that fit on the rails.

Answer
Hi Joe
Nice to hear from you.
Yes, these round rails were made for a spring to sit on so you heard right.
What about a sheet of plywood cut and secured over the round rails.
3/4 inch thick of course and perhaps secured with pipe clamps.
You would likely only need 4 clamps (two on each side), and slots cut into the edge of the plywood for the clamps to go through.
The ply must of course sit directly on top of the rails.
If well secured with the clamps it should be good and sturdy.
Good Luck
Eileen
PS..your idea has merit so I'm not discounting it.