For optimal health, it is extremely important that you get good nights’ sleep. And while your mattress is one factor that helps guarantee this, the bed frame is what provides a sturdy foundation to hold it all up. A good bed frame will elevate your sleep posture, allow your mattress enough room to breathe, and, most importantly, keep the boogieman safely tucked under (lest he decides to join you in the middle of the night).
We have different varieties of bed frames today, ranging in size, shape, and material. However, the best comprise of high-quality material make (preferably wood to bring that feeling of warmth to your bedroom). They are also made with creative designs which complement your bedroom décor, with some even incorporating a built-in storage compartment that you can substitute for a nightstand depending on the nature of your space
To guarantee that you get only the best of the best from the overwhelming options out there, we have compiled our top ten picks of the best bed frames.
Top 10 Bed Frames Of 2020 Reviewed
1. Zinus 14 Inch SmartBase Platform Bed Frame
Best Bed Frame for StorageThis platform bed frame from Zinus is the perfect choice no matter what kind of mattress you have. It’s a metal bed frame that comes in all sizes. While it comes unassembled, you can easily put it together in 10 minutes since the pieces all snap together. The frame is 14 inches high which gives you enough storage space underneath but still place the bed at the right height. Even better, this has a noise-free design so you don’t need to worry about creaks and squeaks throughout the night.
And should you need to pack up your stuff for a move, this bed frame can come along with you. That’s because it has an innovative folding design. However, some users have reported that their mattress easily slides on the bed frame which can make flopping down the bed an unwise decision. It isn’t an ideal option for plus-size individuals. Also, it’s not really the prettiest base you’ll ever see. It definitely could do better in the aesthetics department.
Pros:
- Lots of storage space underneath
- Easy assembly
- Innovative folding design
Cons:
- Mattress slides easily
- Not for heavy individuals
- Not aesthetically pleasing
2. Olee Sleep Bed Frame
Best Bed Frame for Back PainThe Olee Sleep Bed Frame is incredibly sturdy for a bed frame. The solid steel slats and steel frame provide more than adequate support that you won’t need a box spring with this one. The slats are lower than the sides of the frame which creates an enclosure to hold the bed, preventing it from slipping. The bed frame has a high profile at 15 inches with 13.5 inches of clearance underneath for ample storage. However, the parts are unlabeled which can make it slightly more difficult to assemble. The aesthetics can definitely be improved as this is very plain. And the corners can catch you unawares.
Pros:
- Sturdy construction
- Holds mattress in place
- Ample storage space underneath
Cons:
- Plain design
- No labels on the parts
- Sharp corners
3. Zinus SmartBase Elite
Best Bed Frame for Heavy CouplesThe Zinus SmartBase Elite is very similar to the SmartBase Mattress Foundation, our number 1 pick. It also has a height of 14 inches and an easy to assemble steel frame. However, this particular model was designed specifically to provide maximum strength and durability, featuring a heavy-duty wire grid that can support up to 4400lbs. Big and tall individuals will have no problem getting support from this bed frame. However, it still has the same problems: the mattress still easily slides on top and the design doesn’t do anything for your decor. Also, it is more expensive than standard SmartBase.
Pros:
- For big and tall people
- Lots of storage space
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- Mattress slides easily
- Not a pretty design
- More expensive compared to the Standard
4. Classic Brands Adjustable Comfort Adjustable Base
Best Bed Frame for Adjustable BaseThis adjustable bed frame from Classic Brands is ideal for those who want comfort on all levels. The bed frame comes with programmable elevated positions, a wireless remote, USB ports, and even a 3-speed separate dual head and foot massage. The frame also comes with a retention rail to keep your bed in place no matter how many positions you move it to. However, the instructions are a bit lacking. You’ll need to pair the wireless remote with the bed in order to use it. Also, the remote buttons are not backlit which make them hard to see in the middle of the night. Plus, this frame is very expensive.
Pros:
- Programmable elevated positions
- USB ports
- Dual massage
Cons:
- Instructions are lacking
- Buttons are not backlit
- Expensive
5. Zinus Upholstered Square Stitched Platform Bed Frame
Best Bed Frame for Memory Foam MattressIf the SmartBase was too much of a plain Jane for you, Zinus also offers an upholstered platform bed frame. This is a pretty low profile with a height of 13.75 inches with no ample storage beneath. But it does feature wooden slats for improved airflow and flexibility as well as a classic looking headboard that you can relax on. The fabric is knitted polyester. However, the bed frame only comes in one color – gray – and in 3 sizes – full, queen, and king. The slats are too far apart.
Pros:
- Looks good
- Easy to assemble
- Very sturdy
Cons:
- Only comes in one color and 3 sizes
- Slats are too far apart
- Not much storage space underneath
6. Zinus Michelle Compack Adjustable Steel Bed Frame
Best Bed Frame for Box SpringIf you’re not sure about what size bed you’re getting, then the Zinus Michelle Compack Adjustable Steel Bed Frame may be just the thing for you. This steel bed frame can be adjusted to full size, a queen size, and a king size bed frame. The easy locking system and steel construction of the frame make this model very solid. You won’t have to worry about the frame adjusting without your consent! There are also side rails that keep the mattress and box spring from slipping across the frame.
Also, we love the recessed leg design which prevents you from stubbing your toe as much as possible. However, this is a box spring frame so you’ll need to have a box spring on hand before you can use this in your bedroom. This frame does not accommodate California King sized beds. And like a lot of Zinus metal bed frames, this does not look aesthetically pleasing.
Pros:
- Adjustable frame
- Recessed leg design
- Side rails
Cons:
- Box spring required
- No configuration for California King sized beds
- Not aesthetically pleasing
7. Zinus Upholstered Button Tufted Platform Bed
This is another Zinus upholstered bed frame that features a classic style. The frame is made of wooden slates and a steel frame. The slats are perfectly spaced at less than 3 inches – what most manufacturers recommend. Like most Zinus bed frames, this was extremely easy to assemble. However, the low profile of the bed frame means there’s not enough storage space underneath. In addition, the headboard is not too high which means that a thick mattress, around 11 to 12 inches, would cover most of it.
Pros:
- Classic design
- Solid construction
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Not enough storage space
- The headboard is too short
8. KD Frames Nomad Plus Platform Bed
Best Bed Frame for King BedThis wooden frame from KD Frames is made of real, unfinished, smooth Tulip Poplar. It has a very rustic style with a bed height of 15 inches. It has a clearance of around 12 inches which is big enough to place some KD Frame drawers underneath for storage. The wood, even unfinished, is very smooth though you can have it varnished or painted. Putting this bed frame together is very easy, even for one person. However, the measurement of the bed frame is slightly bigger than the actual mattress size, leaving small gaps around the sides of the bed. It also causes the mattress to slide about. Like other wooden bed frames, this one is expensive. And the frame does squeak a bit when used for extracurricular activities.
Pros:
- Beautiful wooden frame
- Ample storage beneath
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- The frame is too big for the bed
- Expensive
- Squeaks a bit
9. DHP Dakota Faux Leather Platform Bed
If you want a platform bed frame that has more pizzazz, then the DHP Dakota Platform Bed may be more your style. It’s an upholstered bed frame padded and covered with faux leather. It has a button tufted diamond detailing and wood frame construction. Metal side rails are present to prevent the bed from sliding. However, it is quite tedious to put together. The headboard is a bit short and can easily be covered with a thick mattress. And the upholstery can easily be scratched by pets.
Pros:
- Beautiful design
- Metal side rails
- Sturdy construction
Cons:
- Hard to assemble
- Short headboard
- Leather can get easily scratched by pets
10. Zinus Sonoma Metal & Wood Platform Bed
The Zinus Sonoma is a combination of wood and metal platform bed. It has a rustic style that appeals to those who live simple decor. The strong steel frame is solidly constructed and has a low profile. Assembly, like with any Zinus model, is pretty easy. However, this particular bed frame is a bit squeaky. Like a lot of the headboards on this list, this one is also a bit short, easily covered by pillows. And the corners of this bed frame are pretty sharp.
Pros:
- Rustic style
- Easy assemble
- Solid construction
Cons:
- Short headboard
- Sharp corners
- Squeaky frame
How to Choose the Best Bed Frames: The Ultimate Buying Guide
A bed frame isn’t just for decor’s sake, no matter what some people think. It provides support for your mattress and helps ensure that you get a good night’s sleep every night. In addition, it allows for circulation which can help prevent mold and insects from living in the mattress. And you get extra storage space underneath. Of course, just like your mattress, you can’t just go around buying the first one that catches your eye. You’ll need to consider a number of factors. Our detailed buying guide should help you figure out which one is the best bed frame that’ll help you snooze well day or night.
What are the Different Types of Bed Frames?
Box Spring Frames
A box spring is a bed foundation that sits between the mattress and the actual frame. It is usually the same size as a mattress. Its main function is to provide support to the mattress to ensure your comfort, absorb shock, and lessen wear and tear. This type of frame like the Zinus Michelle Compack Adjustable Steel Bed Frame requires you to use a box spring before you place the mattress on top. If you already have one, getting a frame like this would be a great choice. However, if you don’t have one at home, it might be more budget-friendly to get a bed frame that doesn’t need one.
Platform Bed Frames
This type features a built-in platform that provides support to a mattress, negating the need for a box spring. Because you can use any type of mattress on this kind of bed frame, it’s the most popular option. The frame features evenly spaced metal or wooden slats that may be static or a little flexible. Aside from support, these slats allow circulation which prevents mold growth in the mattress. Some models have a solid platform while others use a lattice or mesh design like the Zinus 14 Inch SmartBase Platform Bed Frame.
Adjustable Bed Frames
This is a specialized bed frame that allows you to raise and lower the head and foot of the bed. It is quite similar to a hospital bed though you do not need to have a medical condition to get one of these. This kind of frame makes it easier to sit up on the bed and read or watch TV or to find the most comfortable sleeping position for you. However, it cannot accommodate all types of mattresses. One good example of this bed frame is the Classic Brands Adjustable Comfort Adjustable Base. The Zinus Michelle Compack Adjustable Steel Bed Frame is a different kind of adjustable bed frame. Instead of raising and lowering the head and foot of the bed, this bed frame adjusts its size from full all the way to king size.
Specialty Bed Frames
Aside from adjustable bed frames, there are other types of bed frames that are different from the standard such as sleigh beds, canopy beds, four poster beds, day beds, etc. These type of frames are best if you want to add more style to the room’s decor
How Big is Your Bed?
While it may seem too obvious, it still bears repeating. The size of your bed frame will have to conform to the side of your mattress. This shouldn’t be too hard since most bed frames are made according to standard mattress sizes ranging from twin beds to California king mattresses like the Zinus SmartBase Elite. Of course, the size of your bedroom should also be considered when choosing a bed frame. It wouldn’t do to choose a big bed frame when you wouldn’t be able to fit anything else in the room.
How High is the Frame?
Generally, you’ll find that beds on frames have a height of 25 inches. However, there are some bed frames that have a low profile which may be more comfortable for short, lightweight individuals. The Zinus Upholstered Button Tufted Platform Bed, for example, has a height of 13.8 inches which can be pretty low when you only have a 6- to 8-inch mattress. A high profile bed frame, on the other hand, might be more comfortable for heavier individuals as well as for those who have bad knees. One added benefit to a tall bed frame is that you get ample storage space beneath. Just take note that if you have a box spring, a tall bed frame may not be the ideal choice.
What Kind of Material Do You prefer?
Bed frames are usually made of metal and wood. Wooden frames like the KD Frames Nomad Plus Platform Bed are more expensive though they are easier to care for than metal and more aesthetically pleasing. Wooden bed frames are also very durable.
Metal bed frames like the Olee Sleep Bed Frame are more affordable in comparison. These bed frames can have a classic appearance or a contemporary design. However, they are susceptible to rust which makes them less durable compared to wooden frames.
Some bed frames are upholstered like the Zinus Upholstered Square Stitched Platform Bed Frame. These usually have a wooden composite or frame and then padding and fabric are added. They also usually have headboards built into the frame. While these are more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, they are more vulnerable to wear and tear.
What’s Your Decor Like?
Once you’ve squared away all the other considerations, the next step would be to consider style. Do you like shabby chic or a vintage style? Do you prefer contemporary design? The Zinus Sonoma Metal & Wood Platform Bed, for example, features a rustic design. If you don’t plan on redecorating your bedroom in the future, you can opt to go with whatever style takes your fancy. However, if you think your taste will change sometime in the foreseeable future, you can opt for a more neutrally designed bed frame.
Do You Want a Headboard and/or Footboard?
As we’ve already mentioned, upholstered bed frames often come with a headboard. However, you don’t have to go with an upholstered bed frame to get a headboard. If your budget can only afford a plain metal bed frame, you can opt to add a headboard or footboard to add style.
How Much are You Willing to Pay?
There are a lot of factors that can affect the price of a bed frame – material, size, and quality of construction. You can find simple metal bed frames and platform frames that cost between $30 to $100, wooden, metal, and upholstered bed frames from $100 to $500. You can even find some adjustable bed frames in this price range.
High-end bed frames cost upwards of $500 with some costing as much as $1500. You may even find really ornate solid wooden frames with a price tag of $5000.
Is it Easy to Assemble?
A lot of bed frames are delivered to your home unassembled. Some models such as the DHP Dakota Faux Leather Platform Bed are easy enough for the casual DIYer. However, some are more complex and may require professional assistance which is an added cost. Something to consider when you’re calculating how much you’re willing to spend.
Here are 10 things to make your sleep comfortable after choosing the right bed frame.