First of all, the bed DOES require a box spring.  I purchased this because I wanted a platform bed or similar.  The image and description made it sound like the mattress could sit directly on the bed.  It only comes with 4 slats so there's a 2 foot gap between slats.  I would really like to know how a mattress is supposed to sit on this without a foundation.  Since the description for the entire bedroom set states it does require a box spring, I asked customer support to clarify and they confirmed it did NOT require one.  I asked for a better description or image of the slats, but they did not respond.  Had I known this was required, I would not have purchased this bed.  I'm giving 2 stars for price and initial quality.  It seems very sturdy and durable for the years to come.