The Best Bed Frames To Support Your Mattress In 2024

We independently select all products and services. If you click through links we provide, we may earn a commission. Learn moreVettedMattress & SleepThe Best Bed Frames To Support Your Mattress In 2024Jessica BoothContributorOpinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.Forbes VettedAlexandra GarrettForbes StaffForbes VettedFeb 21, 2024,04:47pm EST

A great mattress is important, but the best bed frames really set the stage for a comfortable and supportive night’s rest. That’s why it’s crucial to find one that balances function, durability and good looks. Our pick for the best bed frame checks all those boxes (and more). Thuma’s “The Bed” combines a stable wooden base with a choice of headboards for a classic, understated but undeniably stylish effect. But if you prefer something more industrial, adjustable or you’re on a tight budget, we have a recommendation for that, too.

Our team of sleep experts thoroughly researched dozens of bed frame and consulted Fernish Director of Merchandising and Sourcing and interior design expert Christine Kobervig Munger for additional guidance. “Your bed frame is the foundation of your sleep experience,” says Munger. “Quality is important; you want the frame to properly support your mattress. And your mattress isn’t as comfortable or long-lasting without the proper support.” With this in mind, read on to see our picks for the best bed frames of 2024.

Best Bed Frame Overall: Thuma The BedBest Budget-Friendly Bed Frame: Nectar AuroraBest Wood Bed Frame: Silk & Snow Wooden Bed FrameBest Metal Bed Frame: Crate & Barrel Mason Shadow BedBest Upholstered Bed Frame: Article Tessu Clay Taupe BedBest Adjustable Bed Frame: Saatva Adjustable Base PlusBest Sturdy Bed Frame: Saatva SantoriniBest Bed Frame On Amazon : Allewie Bed FrameBest Sustainable Bed Frame: Avocado City Bed FrameBest Bed Frame For Heavy People: Big Fig Bed FrameBest Low Platform Bed Frame: Nest Bedding Woodland PlatformBest Bed Frame with Headboard: Article Lenia Panel White Oak BedBest Bed Frame For Kids: Plank & Beam Twin Bed Frame

Best Bed Frame Overall

A Versatile, Easy-To-Care-For Frame

Thuma The Bed

Buy from Thuma

The Bed by Thuma is a splurge, to be sure, but thousands upon thousands of glowing reviews claim it’s a worthwhile expense. It’s also incredible easy to assemble: You’ll need to install just two screws by hand, no tools necessary. What’s more, it’s thoughtfully made: The double-strength slats are lined with eco-friendly felt for extra durability and sound reduction, and they lock into place to ensure your mattress won’t slip or move around once it’s placed on top. Rounded corners not only look nice; they also protect you from getting bumped while walking around the dark room at night. Finally, cork-padded leg bottoms offer extra scratch protection for your floors. With a weight limit of more than 1,500 pounds, this bed is great for light and heavy people alike. Choose between the minimalist “PillowBoard” for a cushioned, low-profile look or the Headboard, which is made of solid, up-cycled wood. Either option is very attractive and quite comfortable.

What the reviews say: The Bed from Thuma is incredibly well reviewed, with a 4.9 rating based on over 16,000 reviews. Happy customers say it’s well constructed and easy to assemble. One writes, “The walnut finish is beautiful and I feel like I finally have an heirloom piece of furniture.”

Pros:

Sturdy, cushion-coated slats includedComes with one of two headboard optionsEasy to assemble

Cons:

Relatively expensive

Best Budget-Friendly Bed Frame

High Quality At An Affordable Price Point

MOST POPULAR

Nectar Aurora

Buy From Nectar

With a king size frame priced under $500, Nectar’s Aurora bed frame is a great value. Natural pine and reinforced steel make this low-profile platform bed solid and durable. It’s available in natural or walnut finishes, both of which are easy to keep clean with a damp cloth. Sturdy slats mean there’s no need for a box spring, and the frame comes with all the tools you need for a quick assembly.

In addition to the low price tag, Nectar offers a 50-night home trial and free shipping and returns. One drawback, however, is that the Aurora is available in full, queen and king sizes only.

What reviews say: Customers are really impressed by the quality of the Aurora bed frame. One customer says this bed frame is “everything [they] were looking for without breaking the bank.”

Pros

Great price pointChoice of finishesNo foundation or box spring required

Cons

Limited sizesNo option for headboard

Best Wood Bed Frame

High Craftsmanship, And It Promotes A Supportive Rest

Silk & Snow Wooden Bed Frame

Buy From Silk & Snow

This understated wooden bed frame is made entirely from either acacia or rubberwood, both of which are sourced from sustainable plantations in southwest Asia. The lumber is processed in a Vietnamese facility with eco-conscious manufacturing and finished with Japanese joinery. That means assembly at home is fast and easy, and there are plenty of customer reviews to prove it. The classic platform frame has an optional headboard upgrade with three options: solid wood, bouclé or rattan. And with a weight capacity of up to 1,100 pounds for full, queen and king size frames, this frame is among the strongest on our list.

One thing to keep in mind is that while Silk & Snow offers a 30-day return window on this frame, returns are only accepted in the original packaging. Plus, you’re responsible for return shipping fees.

What reviews say: There are hundreds of five star reviews for Silk & Snow’s wooden bed frame. “High quality at this price point. Beautiful wood, very smooth, clean finish,” writes one customer. Another notes that “it helps to have two people putting it together but it is very easy to put together and takes about 20 minutes to unpack and assemble. Very nice looking frame, well built and comfortable.”

Pros

Headboard upgrade availableChoice of color/materialSustainability sourced

Cons

Not available in a California kingUpgrades make it pricey

Best Metal Bed Frame

A Classic Look With A Footboard

Crate & Barrel Mason Shadow Bed

Buy From Crate & Barrel

Metal bed frames aren’t always as aesthetically pleasing as wood or upholstered frames, but this Crate & Barrel option is an exception. The arch on the headboard and footboard gives this otherwise harsh iron bed a more delicate look, and it has a classic, almost old-fashioned feel to it. A charcoal powder-coat offers a sophisticated finish, and you can choose from grey or brass. For lovers of traditional style and industrial décor alike, it’s a winner.

What the reviews say: “I would buy this bed again and recommend it to anyone,” writes one happy customer who says they’ve had it for 10 months. Another, who describes it as a classic metal bed with a stylish update, says “it’s very stylish and sturdy for having such a slender sleek frame.”

Pros:

Offers a unique lookLess expensive than other models

Cons:

Some reviewers say it can be squeaky

Best Upholstered Bed Frame

A Versatile Bed Frame With A Comfortable Headboard

Article Tessu Clay Taupe Bed

Buy From Article

The Article Tessu bed is a great option for anyone on the hunt for something fully upholstered. After all, it’s hard to opt for upholstery without breaking the bank — but at less than $1,000, this frame makes the cut. Crafted from a light, linen-blend upholstery, it’s available in three different colors, and its soft exterior offers both comfort and style. The wooden legs add a little something to the overall look and the wooden slats are incredibly sturdy. The low-to-the-ground look will also be appreciated by any fans of modern décor.

What the reviews say: One customer, who says they never write reviews for products, writes, “This was everything I wanted in a bed. It ends up absolutely beautiful. So sturdy, so comfortable, I can’t get enough.”

Pros:

Under $1,000Available in a few different colorsComfortable headboard

Cons:

Difficult to assemble

Best Adjustable Bed Frame

Customize Your Position For Comfier Sleep And Lounging

Saatva Adjustable Base Plus

Buy From Saatva

Saatva’s deluxe adjustable base is exactly that, with features that make it ideal not just for sleeping, but reading, relaxing and even working in bed. From the wireless remote, you can manage various massage options from head to toe, elevate the top and bottom of the bed, and save favorite positions. There are also presets for anti-snore and zero-gravity positions, and the quiet motor is discreetly housed out of sight. Under-bed lighting and an in-remote flashlight are nice extras and make it easy to maneuver around a dark bedroom.

Saatva offers free in-room delivery and set-up, along with a 25-year warranty. But it classifies adjustable bases as lifestyle products, which means they aren’t eligible for returns or exchanges.

What the reviews say: Customers have high praise for Saatva’s deluxe adjustable base. “I use the massage every morning before I get out of bed. What a great way to start the day,” says one. “I can’t wait to get home to sleep on it every night. It is the most comfortable I’ve ever had. I have the head and knee portions raised a bit and absolutely love that feature,” writes another.

Pros

Wireless remoteMultiple features

Cons

Can’t be returned or exchangedPricey

Best Sturdy Bed Frame

Comfortable And Supportive For All Body Types

Saatva Santorini

Buy From Saatva

Sophisticated and solidly constructed, Saatva’s Santorini is an upholstered frame with a low profile. Sustainability sourced hardwood is kiln dried for durability, while premium plywood slats offer full mattress support. The Santorini also has slim, unobtrusive metal feet designed to suggest a weightless effect, a vertical center support to ensure stability and fortified brackets and bolts to keep everything secure. Both the headboard and the frame are upholstered in linen or velvet with a choice of stylish, neutral colorways.

The Santorini is only offered in queen, king and California king sizes, and it’s an expensive option at any size. But Saatva offers a 365-night home trial on this frame, along with free in-room delivery and assembly. The Santorini also has a lifetime warranty.

What the reviews say: There aren’t many reviews for the Santorini yet, but it’s already highly regarded with a 4.6 overall rating. “I am so thrilled with the quality and how nice it looks in my bedroom. A must have” says one customer. Another praises its good looks, writing “it has really stepped up the look of my bedroom.”

Pros

Solid constructionChoice of colors and fabricsNo foundation or box spring required

Cons

Limited sizesPricey

Best Bed Frame On Amazon

A Stylish Upholster Frame That Ships Quick

Allewie Bed Frame

Buy From Amazon

Upholstered frames can easily cost over $500, so finding one for less than half that price is a great deal. Enter the Allewie Bed frame, one of the best bed frames on Amazon according to its 4.6 out of 5 star rating. Its modern winged headboard and five color options — Orange, Yellow, Green, Dark and Light Gray — makes it a stylish option for nearly any bedroom. Bonus: Customers who own this bed frame also say it’s easy to assemble.

What the reviews say: The Allewie has over 5,000 reviews, and three quarters are five stars. “This bed is gorgeous. My husband was impressed with the innovative way the bed was designed. The fabric looks like linen and the color is sumptuous. It is a little lower to the ground than I expected (we had a 12 inch mattress), but not so low it was difficult to get in and out in. Highly recommend this beautiful frame for its quality and value,” says one customer.

Pros:

Five color options High weight capacityAffordable

Cons:

Some customers report damage to the frame after shipping

Best Sustainable Bed Frame

A Non-Toxic Frame For Those Who Prioritize Sustainability

Avocado City Bed Frame

Buy From Avocado

If being as eco-friendly as possible is important to you, then opt for Avocado’s City Bed. Made of USA-sourced, sustainable hardwood, it’s an attractive piece. There’s no particleboard, fiberboard or chemical-based finishes here, and all materials are non-toxic with no odors. No-fume Titebond wood glues are used to adhere most of the pieces together and a zero-VOC ECOS wood stain brings everything together. Aside from sustainability, this frame is aesthetically pleasing with clean lines and a minimalist feel. Pay up to add on a shelf or book nook for stylish storage space at the foot of the bed.

What the reviews say: “I have been dreaming of a simple, solid wood bed frame and this was exactly what I pictured,” says one customer. “It’s definitely an investment, but well worth it.” Another calls it “very simple and elegant, but most importantly, non toxic.”

Pros:

Sustainably sourced, non-toxic materials10-year limited warranty

Cons:

No headboard

Best Bed Frame For Heavy People

A Heavy-Duty Option That Holds Up To 2,000 Pounds

Big Fig Bed Frame

Buy From Big Fig

Big Fig specializes in making mattresses for heavy sleepers, and its bed frame is no exception. Made from recycled railroad steel, this frame holds up to 2,000 pounds. It’s also fitted with legs that provide stability on uneven floors and reduce tipping. For even greater support, you can add on Big Fig’s sturdy wood foundation that holds more than five times the weight of an average foundation, according to the company.

What the reviews say: Over 600 reviews call the Big Fig Bed Frame strong and well made. This foundation was exactly what I needed for my size,” says one customer. “This thing is super sturdy, but light enough to move around easily,” writes another.

Pros:

Holds up to 2,000 poundsMade from recycled materialsAffordable

Cons:

No headboard

Best Low Platform Bed Frame

Classic, Sleek And Easy To Set Up

Nest Bedding Woodland Platform

Buy From Nest Bedding

With a five-inch leg height and an overall height of just ten and a half inches, the Woodland from Nest Bedding has the low-slung appeal of a true platform bed. It’s designed for simplicity, with no headboard and minimal fuss. Even the assembly is simple, with no tools or hardware required. Instead, the frame has a corner hook system and fabric-encased slat packs to fully support your mattress. Premium ash makes the Woodland strong and durable, and the natural knots and grain of the wood makes each bed frame distinctive. The Woodland also comes in a choice of three water-based stains to suit different preferences and bedroom aesthetics.

What the reviews say: This is a new offering from Nest, so reviews are limited but glowing. One customer writes, “the finish of this platform is so lovely and works so well in the room. I put it together in under ten minutes, so simple.”

Pros

Reasonably pricedSturdy constructionChoice of colors

Cons

Limited reviews

Best Bed Frame with Headboard

A High Quality, All-In-One Pick

Article Lenia Panel White Oak Bed

Buy From Article

With its tapered spindle legs and slim panel headboard, Article’s Lenia bed has a classic Shaker vibe. There are three stain options, and the combination of veneered and solid wood (walnut, white oak or ash) means variation in color and texture, so no two frames are exactly alike. There are also choices for the headboard material. In addition to the classic wood panel, you can opt for velvet or a polyester/linen blend. Both upholstered options come in a choice of colors. Customers say assembly is straightforward and takes less than an hour, but many mention the astonishing amount of packaging.

What reviews say: “If I could give this more stars I would. It’s a beautiful piece of furniture. The design is simple yet elegant and the craftsmanship is top notch,” says one happy customer. Another describes it as both beautiful and study, calling it “a real piece of furniture that stands the test of time. I love the clean mid-century modern design and this was a great furniture investment in our home.”

Pros

Easy to assemblyChoice of stains and styles

Cons

Limited sizes

Best Bed Frame For Kids

Sturdy Support In A Smaller Size

Plank & Beam Twin Bed Frame

Buy From Plank & Beam

This simple bed frame is made with durable, knot-free New Zealand pine and has a slatted headboard with a panel footboard. It’s a classic pairing that makes the bed a versatile option for little ones getting their first “big kid bed” all the up to teenagers. Parents typically appreciate the choice of hand-applied, low-VOC finishes, the sturdy construction and the quick, easy assembly. While the Plank & Beam bed frame is only offered in a twin size, it’s reasonably priced under $300.

What the reviews say: “Perfect for a child’s bed,” says one customer. Another, who bought the bed for an 11-year-old girl’s room, writes, “I was surprised how nice the quality was for a very reasonable price.”

Pros

Great price pointWide range of finishes

Cons

Some reviews said assembly instructions were unclear MORE FROMFORBES VETTED

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Why Trust Forbes Vetted

We’ve written hundreds of guides on bedroom essentials, including everything from the best sheets to the top platform beds. Sleep ditors Bridget Chapman and McKenzie Dillon are professional mattress testers and certified sleep science coaches. They track down the best products for sleep by testing and reviewing mattresses, bedding accessories and more.l We consulted interior design expert and Fernish Director of Merchandising and Sourcing Christine Kobervig Munger for this guide. Munger weighed in on the types of materials and designs to consider when shopping for the best bed frame. In order to maintain the currency and accuracy of this story, we frequently update it to bring you the most helpful advice. It was last updated in February 2024 to add helpful considerations to our shopping guide.

How We Choose The Best Bed Frames

Research. We sought out models from reputable brands and retailers, and compared each frame’s key features. The quality of the materials, weight capacity, finishes and headboard inclusion were all taken into consideration. Expertise. We relied on our extensive experience with product testing to narrow down the list further, as well as Munger’s advice. Based on this combined knowledge, we prioritized durable materials like wood and metal, and looked for frames available in a wide variety of finishes to suit many different preferences. Reviews. We made sure all the bed frames in our list have solid customer reviews, at least 3 out of 5 stars.

What To Consider When Buying A Bed Frame

Dimensions: What Sizes Do Bed Frames Come In?

Bed frames come in the same standard sizes as mattresses: twin, full, queen and king. Less common sizes, like XL twin and California king, are also available. To make sure you’re pick the right size, it’s a good idea to measure your space and mattress before purchasing.

Height: What Is A Good Height For A Bed Frame?

Most bed frames sit between 16 and 24 inches off the ground (not including the height of the mattress), so the best option for you ultimately depends on your height and comfortability. (A frame that’s higher off the ground will make it more cumbersome to get in and out of bed for most folks.) As a good rule of thumb, we recommend choosing a bed frame that allows you to sit comfortably on the edge with your feet flat on the floor.

Material: What Are The Best Bed Frames Made Of?

Bed frames are generally available in either wood or metal, and some are completely upholstered or partially upholstered. Wood is a popular option because it’s durable and low-maintenance. “A wood bed frame is like the ‘little black dress’ of furniture and can be styled to fit almost any decor theme,” Munger says. Metal bed frames are also durable and easy to clean, but Munger notes that they can be difficult to touch up and repair. “Dents or chips and scratches in the paint can be almost impossible to repair, however this can lend character to a metal bed when styled in industrial or shabby chic spaces,” she says.

Upholstered bed frames, meanwhile, are ideal for creating cozy and inviting spaces. “These can bring softness to an otherwise hard/harsh space such as a loft or room with a lot of architectural detail,” Munger says. Upholstery does require more maintenance, like regular vacuuming and de-pilling, and it can be difficult to repair. Bed frames also come in other materials like leather or plastic, but these aren’t as common and can require even more maintenance.

Price: How Much Do Bed Frames Cost?

On average, you can expect to pay between $300 and $700 for a quality, queen-size bed frame. Keep in mind, though, that cost is usually indicative of quality. Bed frames with a really affordable price tag can come with imperfections like wobbly headboards and squeaky slats. “Look for solid wood, integrated side-rails and headboards (versus add-on headboards that attach to a separate frame) and slats that attach to the frame (rather than just sit on the edge of the frame),” Munger says. For an upholstered bed, she recommends splurging on a high rub count that’s easy to clean.

Support: Are Wooden Or Metal Slats Better?

According to Munger, neither wooden nor metal is objectively better. “The key consideration is weight capacity, spacing and how the slats attach to the bed,” she says. For traditional mattresses and boxsprings, she says spacing is less important, while for foam mattresses, you should look for slats that are no more than 2.75 inches apart.

If you’re shopping for a larger bed frame, central support legs positioned underneath are also important because they help keep your mattress from bowing or sagging. Plus, many manufacturer warranties explicitly mandate extra support in the middle for queen-size mattresses and up.

Aesthetic: What Colors And Finishes Are Available?

A bed frame is often the focal point of a bedroom, so you really want to take style and design into consideration. The good new is bed frames come in a variety of colors and finishes, from walnut and oak to black metal and velvet, to fit nearly any aesthetic. “Consider how committed to a style direction you are,” Munger says. “If you have a clear aesthetic point of view, dive right in and pick a bed frame that amplifies your vision. If you feel undecided or anticipate needing to make changes as your lifestyle changes, pick something classic and versatile.”

Weight: What Is A Good Weight Capacity For A Bed Frame?

Bed frames can typically hold between 60o and 2,000 pounds of evenly distributed weight. Keep in mind, though, that this total needs to include the weight of your mattress, too. Most queen to king-size mattresses weigh between 100 to 150 pounds. If you’re concerned about getting sufficient support from your bed frame, we recommend the Big Fig Bed Frame since it’s specially designed to hold more weight.

What Type Of Bed Frame Is The Most Durable?

The most durable type of bed frame is generally made with hardwood or steel. Frames made with these materials tend to outlast those made with composite materials, but construction matters, too. Look for frames that have joints instead of just screws, slats spaced closely together and center supports in addition to feet. While our overall favorite — Thuma’s “The Bed” — definitely scored points for style, it’s also incredibly sturdy thanks to its stable wooden base and classic look.

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