Ikea Sultan Luroy vs. Luroy: What's the difference?

Discover the difference between IKEA's Sultan Luroy and Luroy bed bases. Learn why they're essentially the same, just different names from separate eras.
Written by:
Spencer Lanoue

The main difference between the IKEA Sultan Luroy and the modern Luroy is simply the name, they are functionally the same product from different eras. "Sultan" was IKEA's former brand name for all its sleep products, including bed bases, which has since been discontinued, while "Luroy" is the current name for its entry-level slatted bed base. Essentially, if you see references to the Sultan Luroy, it’s talking about the predecessor to the Luroy you can buy today.

Here’s everything you need to know about this classic IKEA product and how it compares to other options, helping you choose the right support for your mattress.

A Quick History: What Was the IKEA Sultan Luroy?

The "Sultan Luroy" was not a separate or more advanced product, it was simply the Luroy slatted bed base sold under IKEA's old "Sultan" collection. For years, IKEA grouped all of its mattresses, bed bases, and mattress toppers under the Sultan umbrella. Around 2014-2015, IKEA phased out the Sultan name and began selling these products under their individual model names, which is why today we just have the "Luroy." Due to old forum posts and outdated articles, the "Sultan Luroy" name still causes confusion for shoppers.

  • What it was: The name given to IKEA's standard slatted bed base when it was part of the now-discontinued 'Sultan' sleep collection.
  • Key features: Composed of layer-glued birch veneer slats held together with polyester ribbons to provide basic, flexible support for a mattress.
  • Current Status: Discontinued. It has been replaced by the identical, currently named Luroy slatted bed base.
  • Why you might still hear about it: The name persists in online discussions, secondhand marketplaces, and older product reviews from before the name change was fully implemented. Many people still refer to their older bases by this name.

This means you cannot buy a "Sultan Luroy" today, but you can purchase its direct successor, which has the same design and function. The key takeaway is that the 'Sultan' part of the name is historical, not a feature.

Today’s IKEA LURÖY Slatted Bed Base

The LURÖY is IKEA's most popular and affordable slatted bed base. Designed for use with an IKEA bed frame, it provides foundational support and allows air to circulate freely around the mattress, extending its life and helping to keep it fresh. Packaged in a compact roll, it’s easy to transport and install, making it a go-to choice for budget-conscious buyers, kids' rooms, and guest beds.

  • What it is: An entry-level slatted bed base designed to provide firm, flexible support inside a bed frame.
  • Key features: 17 slats of layer-glued birch. Easily rolls out into the bed frame for simple installation. Available in Twin, Full, Queen, and King sizes.
  • Price: ~$40 (Twin) to $60 (Queen)
  • Dimensions: Designed to fit standard IKEA bed frame sizes.
    • Twin: 74 3/8" L x 38 1/4" W
    • Queen: 79 1/2" L x 59 7/8" W
  • Materials/Construction: Slats are made from layer-glued birch veneer. The ribbon holding the slats together is 100% polypropylene.
  • Style: Purely functional. These are hidden beneath the mattress and are not visible in a furnished bed.
  • Pros: Extremely affordable and an excellent value. Easy to transport and assemble - just unroll it. Provides essential mattress ventilation. Better support and longevity for a mattress than a box spring or placing it on the floor.
  • Cons: Basic, flat support without comfort zones. The slats can occasionally slide or shift inside wider bed frames. Not ideal for very heavy mattresses or individuals who need targeted ergonomic support.

The LURÖY is best for anyone needing a simple, effective, and highly affordable mattress foundation, particularly for foam or lighter hybrid mattresses in guest rooms or children's beds.

Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/luroey-slatted-bed-base-30292785/

Luröy vs. Lönset: A More Practical Comparison

Since the Sultan Luroy and Luroy are functionally identical, a more helpful comparison for a modern shopper is between IKEA’s two most popular slatted bases: the entry-level Luröy and the upgraded Lönset. The Lönset represents a significant step up in comfort and support for a higher price.

Construction & Support

The biggest difference lies in the design of the slats. The LURÖY uses 17 straight, un-zoned slats that provide uniform, firm support across the entire bed. It’s a simple and effective system.

In contrast, the LÖNSET features 30 slightly curved birch slats that respond to your body weight and movement. More importantly, it includes "comfort zones" - lighter-colored slats around the shoulder and hip areas that are more flexible. This zoned construction allows the base to contour more precisely to your body, relieving pressure points and providing more targeted support where it’s needed most.

Materials & Durability

Both models use layer-glued birch veneer, a strong and flexible wood composite ideal for this application. However, the LÖNSET's construction feels more robust. With nearly double the number of slats (30 vs. 17 in the Queen size), it distributes weight more evenly, making it better suited for heavier mattresses (like thick hybrids or latex) and heavier sleepers. The additional rubber caps that hold the slats also contribute to a quieter and more stable-feeling bed frame.

Price & Value

There is a clear price difference that reflects their features. A Queen-size LURÖY currently costs around $60, making it an undeniable budget champion. For an entry-level bed or a temporary setup, its value is hard to beat.

A Queen-size LÖNSET typically costs around $120, exactly double the price. While more expensive, the value comes from its enhanced comfort and support. If you suffer from back or shoulder pain, or if this is for the primary bed you sleep in every night, the investment in the LÖNSET often provides superior sleep quality and is worth the extra cost.

Assembly & Installation

Both are simple to assemble, but the LURÖY is the absolute easiest. You simply unroll the strapped slats into your bed frame. The LÖNSET requires a bit more effort: you must insert each individual slat into plastic holders along a central metal beam and side rails. While still easy, it takes about 15-20 minutes compared to the LURÖY's two minutes.

Which Slatted Base Should You Choose?

Both of IKEA's slatted bases are solid choices, but they are built for different users and priorities.

Choose the LURÖY if:

  • You are on a tight budget and need the most affordable solution.
  • The bed is for a guest room, a child's room, or temporary use.
  • You have a lightweight foam mattress.
  • You prefer a very firm, flat support surface with minimal give.

Choose the LÖNSET if:

  • Comfort and ergonomic support are your top priorities.
  • The bed is your primary bed that you'll sleep in every night.
  • You have a heavy mattress (hybrid, latex, or thick spring mattress).
  • You experience hip or shoulder pain and would benefit from pressure-relieving comfort zones.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between the IKEA Sultan Luroy and Luroy?

There's no functional difference. "Sultan Luroy" was just the old name for the product when it was sold under IKEA's "Sultan" brand of sleep products. The Luroy you buy today is the same entry-level slatted base.

Do I absolutely need IKEA slats for an IKEA bed frame?

Yes. IKEA bed frames are designed without a ledge for a box spring, they rely on a slatted base placed on central and side rails for mattress support. You must use a slatted base like the Luroy or Lönset for the bed to function correctly and to validate your mattress warranty.

Which IKEA slatted base is best overall?

For most people sleeping on their bed every night, the LÖNSET is a superior choice due to its better ergonomic support and comfort zones. It provides better value for long-term sleep quality. The LURÖY is best for budget or low-use scenarios.

Can you put a mattress directly on LURÖY slats on the floor?

No, this is not recommended. The slats are designed to be supported by the rails within a bed frame. Placing them directly on the floor offers no stability, and they will slide apart, providing poor support for your mattress.

Do the LURÖY slats slide around?

This can be a minor issue, especially in Queen and King frames where two sets of slats sit side-by-side. The LURÖY is simply laid into the frame, and heavy movement can sometimes shift them slightly. The LÖNSET's design, which secures slats into a frame, eliminates this problem.

Will IKEA slats work with a non-IKEA bed frame?

Sometimes, but it’s not guaranteed. You must ensure your non-IKEA frame has a center support beam (for Queen/King sizes) and side rails at the correct height to hold the slats. Measure carefully before you buy, as standard furniture sizes can vary.

How many slats does the LURÖY have?

All sizes of the LURÖY have 17 slats. In the Queen and King versions, you receive two separate rolled sets to place side-by-side in the frame.

Is it easy to install LURÖY slats?

Yes, it's one of IKEA's easiest installations. You simply unbox the rolled package and unfurl the slats into the designated place inside your bed frame. It takes only a minute or two.

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