Although this is a platform bed, a box spring is required (see product descriptions).  I read the description prior to purchasing but didn't catch this detail because it was my assumption that platform beds do not require a box spring.  The slats are pretty flimsy and don't even touch the ground when installed (I guess they are meant to sag a bit??).  I have seen much higher quality platform beds in the past.  We'll see how this one holds up now that I have located a box spring for it.