Somier

Somier is the bed base that supports a mattress. It is typically a frame equipped with slats or a solid platform, made from wood, plywood, or metal. In many European and Latin American markets, the somier is the base that works together with the mattress, and it is often distinguished from the box spring used in some other regions. The main purpose of a somier is to distribute weight evenly, provide a stable surface for the mattress, and allow air to circulate under the mattress to reduce moisture and wear.

Common variants include the slatted somier (somier de lamas), which uses a set of parallel wooden slats connected to the frame, and solid platform bases, which rely on a flat surface. Some somieres are fixed, while others are adjustable (somier articulado), allowing the head or legs to be raised. Frames can be wooden or metal and may include a center support rail for larger sizes to prevent sagging.

Materials and dimensions: Wooden slats are typically made from beech or pine and are spaced to balance support and ventilation. Metal frames use a grid or lattice of supports. Sizes vary by country, but somieres are generally offered to match standard bed dimensions such as single, double, queen, and king, with measurements adapting to regional conventions.

Maintenance and care: Regularly check screws, brackets, and slat attachments for looseness; ensure slats remain in place; avoid excessive moisture to prevent warping; keep the surface clean and allow adequate ventilation under the mattress. Proper pairing with an appropriate mattress helps extend both bed base and mattress life.