9 Best Bed Frames 2020 (A Complete Buying Guide)

Humans spend roughly a third of our entire lifespans sleeping. That’s a lot of time to spend in an inappropriate bed that does not maximize your needs. Picking the best bed frame for your own sleeping quarters is essential to quality of life.

Quality bed frames can be hard to find, so make sure you take the time to weigh up your investment. Thankfully, we’re here to help. This guide reviews nine of the best bed frames available today.

Types of Bed Frame

Simply wandering into a store and asking for a bed frame will not get you very far. You’ll struggle even more if you are searching online.

Bed frames come in a variety of shapes and styles. Different bed frames suit different needs. You’ll need a little more information about what you’re actually looking for.

The most common types of bed frame are:

• Canopy
• Panel
• Platform
• Storage Platform
• Four-Poster
• Sleigh

Before we go any further with this guide, let’s take a deeper dive into what each of these descriptions actually means and what you can expect from them.

Canopy

Canopy bed frames are like a slightly less elaborate four-poster bed frame. Every corner of a canopy bed frame will be connected overhead. This creates a box-like frame – a canopy if you prefer.

This means that canopy beds can provide a great deal of privacy. You will be able to hang fabrics from this frame, such as curtains or drapes. Alternatively, you could use the canopy frame exclusively for decorative purposes.

Somebody that works a night shift may find a canopy bed frame particularly helpful. Blackout curtains can be hung, keeping unwelcome daylight away from the bed. Light sleepers may also feel more secure and secluded by making use of this kind of bed frame.

If you’re interested in a traditional canopy bed, expect ornate handcrafting and features. This will naturally be reflected in the price tag. If you prefer a no-frills approach, search for a contemporary canopy bed frame. These provide the same level of privacy but are thinner, more basic, and thus usually cheaper.

Panel

If you’re looking for something minimalist and no-nonsense for your bedroom, consider a panel bed frame. These space-saving designs are the very definition of simplicity. The mattress will sit atop a basic stricture, with a flat wooden headboard and footboard at either end. You may also see panel beds being referred to as box spring beds.

A panel bed will typically have small rails on the side of the frame. This is a design feature, offering support to your mattress and ensuring that it remains in place. These bed frames are generally taller than most alternatives, with longer legs.

This means that panel bed frames are potentially best avoided by anybody that lives with pets, who may hurt themselves jumping to and from the bed. Panel bed frames remain a great choice in small, modern spaces though.

They are also typically subtle enough to suit any kind of decor. if you don’t want your bed to be a focal point of the room, a panel bed frame is a great choice.

Platform

Platform beds are arguably the most common type of bed frame you will encounter. Constructed from wood or metal, these beds will feature a range of evenly spaced slats. The mattress sits atop these. This basic approach means that a platform bed frame is sometimes referred to as a cabin bed.

Platform beds are ideal for anybody seeking an efficient and cost-effective single or double bed. If you’re looking for something more elaborate, such as a King- or Queen-sized, it’s typically advisable to invest in some kind of reinforcement. If one slat breaks, the whole bed frame will become unbalanced.

This also means that heavier or sexually active couples may need to think carefully about a platform bed. Too much pressure on the slats can lead to the constant need to replace them. Platform beds to tend to sit low to the ground though, so they can ideal for anybody with limited mobility.

Storage Platform Bed

As you may have guessed, a storage platform bed is a platform bed with additional storage options. Sometimes, the simplest answer really is the best.

A storage platform bed will have built-in drawers beneath the mattress. Naturally, this is great for small rooms with limited space. You can use these drawers for spare bedding, shoes, towels or anything else that could be useful.

Just remember our advice about general platform bed frames. If the slats of the bed frame break, they could end up damaging the contents of the storage drawers. Ensure that this is the safest and most sensible option for you.

Four-Poster Bed Frames

Four-Poster bed frames have long been considered the last word in nocturnal luxury. Like a canopy bed, this frame will have posts at each corner. Unlike the canopy frame, however, they do not connect to each other, though this remains an option if you prefer.

A four-poster bed frame offers all the same privacy and aesthetic benefits of a canopy bed frame. Typically, though, the posts are taller. These can be used to hang decorative flourishes or used as a design feature. A metal frame for four-poster bed, for example, can feature rounded post tips.

Four-poster bed frames typically sit close to the ground, while the frames reach as high you need them to be. If you have a substantial and sizable bedroom, a four-poster bed frame can add a real touch of decadent class.

Sleigh Bed Frames

Picture a wooden sleigh in your mind. Are you imagining Santa’s favored mode of transportation right now? Well, you’re on the right path. A sleigh bed frame will feature a curved headboard, which is ideal for sitting up against. This makes sleigh bed frames ideal for those that enjoy reading in bed.

A sleigh bed frame will mirror this headboard at the base of the bed. This provides a little more protection, but it means this bed frame may not be ideal for the exceptionally tall. Dangling feet from the end of the bed will not be an option if you choose a sleigh bed frame.

Sleigh bed frames look particularly stunning when crafted from wood. This enables the creator to add some personal design flourishes. A high-quality sleigh bed frame can be a real statement. Don’t fret if you have your heart set on this design but cannot afford ornate wood, though. Sleigh bed frames can also be constructed from metal.

Reviews of Bed Frames

Now that we have discussed the different types of bed frame, it’s time to choose the ideal model for your home. Below, you will find reviews of nine of the finest bedframes on the market. Choose one of these based on your personal circumstances, and bed will become your favorite place to be – regardless of what activities you’re engaging in under the covers.

Zinus Shalini Upholstered Headboard Frame

Sometimes, the only place to start is with the very best bed frame available. In our eyes, this is the Zinus Shalini. If a platform bed will accommodate your needs, this is the frame to choose. Available in Twin, Full Double, Queen and King sizes, it’s an elegant wooden bed frame with an impressive and comfortable headboard.

Available in two shades of gray – dark or sage – this bed frame sits just under seven inches off the ground. The slats are roughly three inches apart, which is ideal for supporting a mattress – and tall or heavy occupants of the bed. This also means the bed frame is quiet. There is limited squeaking and groaning when climbing in or out.

This bed frame offers a warranty of five years, which is an impressive length of time. We are confident that it will hold up and remain fully operational for the duration of this period. Overall, we consider this to be a great addition to any bedroom.

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AmazonBasics Foldable Metal Platform Bed Frame

If you’re looking for a bed frame for a spare room or as a temporary fix, you won’t want to break the bank. This basic, metal bed frame fits the bill perfectly in such a scenario. We consider it the best budget bed frame that anybody can consider.

It’s a platform bed frame that springs together virtually out of the box, which is a big plus. It can cope with a weight load of up to 250lbs without any strain, and it sits 13 inches tall. You can store items underneath it in a spare room this way – out of sight, out of mind.

If we’re honest, we wouldn’t recommend this frame as a main bed in an adult home. As a removable spare or for a child, however, it’s ideal. The warranty is just one year, but it’s reliable – and cheap – enough for this to be less of a concern.

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Best Bed Frame with Wheels – MALOUF

Depending on your circumstances, you may need to move your bed on occasion. If that’s the case, it will be far easier to shift a bed frame on wheels. Enter this model from MALOUF Structures.

This frame is very simple, both in terms of design and construction. You won’t need any tools to put it together, and it can accept any mattress. It also comes with a lifetime warranty, in the unlikely event that you have an issue.

The wheels mean that the bed frame can easily be relocated. It only weighs 34 lbs too, so you won’t need to pump iron before attempting to do so. This makes this a great bed frame if you have recently moved to a new home and will need to relocate the bed for decorating.

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Best Adjustable Bed Frame – Leggett & Platt Prodigy 2.0

Adjustable beds are not just for hospitals. If you invest in this bed, you’ll have a realm of comfort at the tip of your fingers. You can use your smartphone to move the bed up and down thanks to a specialist app. Don’t panic about running out of battery and being stuck in position. The sides of the bed offer USB charging ports.

While you’re at it, why not target any aches and pains with the built-in massage feature? You can even choose to wake up to a massage, using the alarm clock feature. This is a space age bed, so it would only really suit a modern bedroom, but it’s a genuine marvel of technology.

If that sounds expensive, it is … but the bed frame also comes with a cooling memory foam mattress built in. This guarantees a snug and appropriate fit, and also saves the hassle and risk of additional shopping. With a 25-year warranty, you can use this bed to combat any kind of nocturnal disturbance, from a snoring partner to excess body temperature.

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Best Platform Bed Frame – Life Home

This platform bed is great for sitting upright within thanks to a tall, soft headboard that’s upholstered in linen. That can be a big plus for anybody that enjoys reading or watching TV from the comfort of their bed.

Like all platform beds, the legs are comparatively high. You can choose a mattress to suit this, though. This frame supports any mattress – you are not restricted to springboards.

Available in all the usual sizes, the slats of this bed are made from sturdy wood. The frame will be able to cope with at least 500 lbs of weight without showing signs of wear and tear.

If you do have an issue, the bed frame has a warranty of five years. You shouldn’t need it, though.

This is good because it’s also a gorgeous bed frame to look at. The fact that it retains shape and aesthetic appeal is a huge appeal. You’ll enjoy a prolonged period of comfort and happiness from this bed frame, making it a great investment.

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Best Canopy Metal Bed Frame – DHP Canopy Bed

We all deserve a little luxury from time to time, and this canopy bed from DHP offers this in spades to children. It’s a great addition to a light, spacious bedroom, and will add a touch of decadence to your decor.

This bed frame is constructed from gold-, pewter, white- or pink-plated metal, but it’s sturdier – and more comfortable – than it looks. You can pick up a Twin frame in this size, which is fine for a child’s bedroom, but the Double frame really helps shine a light on the quality it provides. Apply curtains measuring 60 x 84″ for maximum impact.

The posts of this canopy bed measure around six feet, so they’ll fit into most bedrooms. They’re not the sturdiest in the world, but they’ll do the job.

The bed can also hold an adult’s weight, up to around 200 lbs. We point this out because we’re quite sure you’ll be tempted to try the bed for yourself!

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Best for Heavy People – Classic Brands Hercules 

There are many reasons why you may be looking for a heavy-duty bed frame. Whatever the source of the weight, this steel bed frame from Hercules will withstand any kind of pressure. That’s an impressive feat at a very reasonable price point.

The frame simply snaps into place, with no need to use tools. The Double, Queen and King-sized frames can comfortably accommodate a total weight of 2,400 lbs. The frame sits some 13 inches from the floor, too, which is great for storage. The feet of the bed frame is also capped to protect flooring.

This bed frame is wholly versatile. It can be used for heavier couples to sleep on, or as a spare bed that is used for storage. Whatever purpose it serves, it’s easy to put together and fold up, and can withstand a great deal of punishment.

The bed frame also comes with a five-year warranty. That’s a great promise – especially seeing as the sturdy nature of the frame means that you’re almost certain not to need it.

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Best Flaux Leather Frame – DHP Dakota

Faux leather is not an aesthetic that appeals to every taste, but we urge you to give this bed frame from DHP a second look. You can take your pick of sizes – Twin, Full Double, Queen and King are all available – and the colors on offer include black, brown and white. There is even a model with drawers available if necessary.

This is a platform bed that sits low to the ground, so it’s great for anybody with mobility limitations. Coupled with the faux leather finish, this means easy cleaning. There is no need to get down on your hands and knees and hoover at length. The occasional wipe down to remove dust is fine.

This isn’t the sturdiest bed in the world, so heavy or active users may want to look elsewhere. For anybody else though, it’s a cinch to assemble and maintain. The warranty of the bed frame is one year, and the variety of aesthetic designs ensures that it will look right at home in almost any room.

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Best Bed Frame with Storage Space – Baxton Studio

We all need a little extra space every now and again. The Rene design from Braxton Studios offers just that. This is a four-drawer platform bed that will meet the needs of any small home. These drawers are nineteen inches deep each – perfect for storing pillows and soft furnishings.

Not that this bed is only suitable as a surrogate wardrobe. While the storage is a welcome bonus, this is also a comfortable and relaxing bed frame. Constricted with plywood and rubber wood, the padded fabric of the headboard will feel luxurious to lean against.

This bed is also easy to assemble, especially given the additional features. Sturdy, stable and comfortable, this is a great bed frame with a lengthy warranty.

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Things to Consider When Purchasing a Bed Frame

Now you know what we consider to be the best possible bed frames on the market. However, you may still be weighing up what style of bed frame will suit your needs.

As a reminder, here are some of the key things to consider when deciding upon a bed frame. If you get the purchase right the first time, you won’t need to replace it for quite some time.

Dimensions

We hope this goes without saying, but ensure that your choice of bed frame actually fits! Width is obviously important, but take height into consideration too. A canopy or four-poster bed will need a high ceiling to fit comfortably into a bedroom. Take the time required to carefully measure every aspect of your room. An inappropriate bed frame can cause all kinds of problems.

Aesthetical Appeal

Looks may not be everything, but we’d be lying if they said there were not important. Think about the general decor of your bedroom, and the aesthetic that you are trying to present. An older, rustic cottage will not suit a metal bed frame. Equally, something large, elaborate and ornate will look out of place in a modern, minimalist environment.

Use of Bed

We use our beds for much more than just sleeping. Imagine that it’s a cold winter’s morning, and you’re wholly reluctant to leave the comfort of your duvet. Which bed frame style will be most comfortable while you relax with your first cup of coffee of the day and watch breakfast TV?

Weight of Occupants and Medical Conditions

Your physical conditioning will influence the kind of bed frame that is best for you. Heavier occupants will want a sturdy bed frame that sits a little higher from the ground. If you have a bad back or knees, however, it will be easier to access a low bed frame.

Mattress Preferences

Different bed frames require different styles of mattresses. If you pick up a panel, four-poster or sleigh bed frame, you’ll need a spring-box mattress to use with them. That doesn’t appeal to everybody, so you may need to factor this into your thinking. Double-check that your choice of bed frame works with your existing mattress or the replacement that you have in mind.

Price and Warranty

Last, but by no means least, consider the price of your bed frame – and compare it to a warranty that is on offer. If you are going to spend big, such as on a canopy, four-poster or sleigh bed frame, you will want some kind of assurance that it is built to last. Panel and platform beds are a little cheaper, but not always as robust – especially platform beds. Don’t make the mistake of buying cheap and paying twice.

Wrap Up

We hope you have found this information useful. Take everything discussed into consideration when choosing your bed frame, and you’ll enjoy years of restful sleep. A good quality bed frame is one of the best investments that you could ever make!