Bed frame come in lots of looks and materials, from simple wood or metal to plush upholstered options. Some even have built-in storage. A bed that sets the style in your bedroom or one that blends in? Or something in between? The choice is yours.
We’ve put together the best tips for choosing a bed frame.
Look at Your Bedroom Size
If you’re buying a completely new bed, including the mattress, you can choose whatever size you want. Taking into consideration your bedroom size helps you pick the best solution for your bedroom.
Ideally, you’ll want 2 to 3 feet around your bed on the sides and end. This gives you enough space to move freely in your bedroom.
Measure your available space to compare to standard bed dimensions. Keep in mind that your bed frame and headboard can add a few inches to the bed beyond the mattress dimensions.
Decide on which size of bed frame you’ll need to narrow down your options.
Finding your bed frame size
You can choose between Full, Queen, or King sizes to fit your space. Looking for smaller? You can choose twin-size beds, bunk beds, and daybeds to choose from.
Learn more about bed frame sizes
Consider Current Mattress Size
Do you already love your mattress? If you’re planning to keep it but just want to upgrade your bed frame, use the mattress as your sizing guide.
Your bed frame needs to match your mattress size for a proper fit.
Choose the Support Type
Mattresses need some form of support beneath them. Without support, your mattress will sag or wear prematurely.
The two main support options are platform beds and box springs.
If you choose a platform bed, it provides built-in support for your mattress. You don’t need to use a box spring with it.
Platform beds usually sit lower to the ground than a traditional bed frame with a box spring.
Upholstered means extra cozy
If you fancy bringing an extra cozy feel to your bedroom, then an upholstered bed could be for you. The headboard features soft padding and can help you get nice and comfortable when you’re reading or relaxing in bed.
Pick the Height
The height of the bed frame is another consideration.
Decide what’s comfortable for you for bed height. A higher mattress is usually easier for people with mobility issues.
If you like to stay low to the ground, a platform bed is a good option. You can also look for a low-profile bed frame.
If you want more height, look for a taller bed frame. Some beds can be custom ordered in the height of your choosing.
Compare Materials
Wood and metal are the two main options for bed frame materials. Both offer sturdy options.
The main difference is in the appearance. Consider which option works best with your room.
The quality of the material is also important. Solid hardwood is a very sturdy material, but a wooden frame with inferior construction might not hold up as well. For a quality bed, always check what hardware and joinery system is used.
Likewise, weak or flimsy metal might create a low-quality bed frame that bends easily and doesn’t hold up under very much weight. They can also be noisy.
Inspect the Support System
Since the main purpose of the bed frame is to support your mattress, you want to make sure the slat system is sturdy.
Choose a frame with strong slats that don’t bend easily. Weak slats won’t give your mattress the support it needs, and they might eventually break. Generally hardwood slats like beech or poplar are preferable to softwood slats like pine.
Consider the number of slats and the spacing between them. If there aren’t very many slats, the overall system isn’t as strong.
Some bed frames also have central support legs for extra strength. This can be especially helpful on larger beds.
Consider the Style
If the bed frame will remain visible once your bed is made, the style is an important consideration. This is the case when the bed frame includes exposed side rails.
Consider the overall style of your bedroom when picking the design. If you have a modern bedroom, a simple, sleek design is ideal.
If you have a traditional-style bedroom, you might prefer an ornate wood frame with intricate detailing.
For a rustic look, you might choose an aged-finish wood frame.
Learn more about bed frame styles
Consider beds with storage
Drawers underneath your bed are a great place to keep your bed linen and extra blankets or duvets, or even your night-time reading. They’re easy to reach and especially helpful if you don’t have a lot of space. You can also find headboards with storage and even beds with built-in storage units.
