Everything You Need To Know About Bed Frames

Getting a new bed is exciting! The prospect of a better night’s sleep, a mattress that’s best suited to your sleep needs, and potentially a bigger bed are all reasons to jump into bed-buying with enthusiasm. While you’re in the process of determining the right mattress and mattress size for you, let’s take a minute to get familiar with bed frames. Today, bed frames range from basic to seriously advanced. (Yes, there are even bases that will massage you.) So, here’s the rundown.

Traditional bed frame

A traditional bed frame requires a base, or mattress support, to be used in conjunction with your mattress. For that reason, traditional frames either have less clearance from the floor or the top of the mattress sits higher. 

You should always use a box spring or a foundation in conjunction with a traditional frame, which doesn’t have enough slats or structure to support a mattress alone. Not using a box spring with a traditional frame can void the warranty on some mattresses. 

The most basic bed frame is a metal frame, built or adjusted to the dimensions of your mattress. Basic frames come in every standard bed size: twin, full, queen, king, california king, and XL sizes. Basic metal frames often come on wheels and can be adjustable.  

Platform bed

Platform bed frames take the place of a mattress foundation. The frame, or platform, has slats, a lattice structure, or is made of a solid foundation. And while platform beds are often associated with contemporary design, they’re now made in a variety of styles — with or without headboards and footboards — from modern to traditional. 

If you’re thinking about skipping a box spring or buying a foam mattress, make sure your bed frame can support it. 

Adjustable base

If you haven’t shopped for a bed frame in the last ten years, new technology in bed foundations will amaze you. Adjustable bases are platforms that hinge at multiple points to allow the head and foot of the bed to incline or recline, giving you a wide variety of sleeping positions. 
 
Many adjustable bases act as a bed frame. Some models fit inside most modern bed frames and headboards, so you don’t have to give up a bed frame you love to get high-tech support. 

While features on adjustable bases differ, some models offer wireless remotes, pre-programmable positions, LED night lights, USB ports, and yes, even massage. 

As you make mattress decisions, be sure to check out all of your bed frame options. If you want to try out the luxuries of an adjustable base, come see one of our sleep consultants. And don’t worry, we’ll understand if you want to stay for a nap.