In most cases, buying a bed frame involves buying an entire bed, including the headboard and footboard. Some furniture retailers include a frame whenever these other pieces are purchased, and in many cases, a new mattress will come with a very basic frame upon request. You may need to buy just the frame under some circumstances, however, such as when taking advantage of a special purchase or closeout deal. If your current bed frame is broken or damaged, it may also need to be replaced. Before buying one, you’ll want to consider what it’s made out of, if it will fit your headboard and/or footboard, if it’s the right size for your mattress, and if you need storage space under the bed.
Most bed frames are made of either metal or wood, and either one is suitable. In most cases, a wooden frame will look best with a wood headboard, and metal with metal, but this can depend on the style of headboard and how much of the frame will be seen. Whichever material you choose, you’ll need to make sure that headboard, and footboard if applicable, will properly attach to the frame. Most headboards can adjust to fit frames that vary slightly in height, but this will depend on what the headboard is made out of and what size it is. By measuring ahead of time, you can be confident that your new frame and existing headboard will work together.
Another consideration is the size of your mattress. While it’s important to buy a frame that fits your existing mattress, consider whether you want to plan ahead as well. Some are adjustable to fit different sizes of mattresses, so a twin may adjust to a full, and a full may adjust to a queen. Bed frames for children’s beds and guest bedrooms are excellent examples of places where you may want to have this flexibility. If there is a possibility you will want to use a different sized bed in the near future, then consider buying an adjustable frame.
In addition to ensuring that all the pieces will work together, consider whether or not you want to use the space under the bed for storage. If this is the case, then either buy a frame that sits high enough to accommodate storage boxes or consider buying a platform storage bed. Rather than using a traditional bed frame, a storage bed is a box-type frame that includes drawers. More often than not, these are sold as a separate piece of bedroom furniture or are included in a bedroom furniture package.
While shopping for a bed frame shouldn’t be a daunting task, be sure to take the time to look for what you want while keeping in mind what you already have. Finding a frame to suit your needs and fit your existing pieces should be rather easy. Check local furniture retailers after shopping online to get an idea of various styles and features. In many cases, if they don’t have what you want, they will be able to order it or something quite similar.