Buying guide for best queen bed frames
A bed frame offers an impressive combination of functionality and style, supporting the mattress while also at times serving as the focal point of the bedroom. Bed frames can be elaborate and stylish or simple and practical, and many offer shelves and other space-saving extras too. Queen is the most popular size of mattress, and there are endless possibilities when it comes to finding the right bed frame.
If you already have a queen mattress, you know what size frame you need, but there are a lot of other decisions to make when it comes to style, functionality, and price. There is a queen bed frame for every need and preference, and there are many unique queen bed frames, so you’re sure to find the one that suits your lifestyle and décor.
Whether you have a mattress in need of a frame or you want to buy a whole new bed set, there’s a lot to consider, and we’re here to help. Our buying guide has lots of information to aid your decision. If you already have an idea of what you need, check out our recommendations above.
Key considerations
Type
There are many types of bed frames, with myriad variations that can make the process of finding the right one a bit overwhelming. Here are some common types of queen bed frames:
Platform: This popular frame is simple and inexpensive and offers a variety of looks and styles. Platform beds raise the mattress off the floor and don’t require a box spring. They are compatible with all types of mattresses and work especially well with foam or hybrid mattresses. Some of these frames are upholstered, offering a softer, more luxurious look and feel while also increasing the price. Upholstered headboards come in a variety of patterns and designs.
Panel: This queen bed frame is also simple in style and includes a headboard, footboard, and panel on each side. One type of panel bed is the sleigh bed, which boasts a raised footboard that can be as high as the headboard and usually is larger and more ornate. Some panel bed frames have a headboard and footboard that aren’t solid to give them an airier, lighter feel.
Simple: These flat frames lack a headboard, footboard, or any side panels. The mattress (and box spring if you’re using one) sits on top of the frame. These are simple options that are great for those on a budget.
Canopy: These elaborate bed frames have a post in each corner connected by horizontal beams and traditionally topped with a fabric canopy, although they can also be adorned with string lights or plants. Some options have posts of varying heights without crossbeams.
Folding: If you’re looking for a space-saving queen bed frame, a folding frame might be for you. Some frames adjust to accommodate mattresses of different sizes too. Murphy beds, or wall beds, are popular options for people who have limited living space: these beds fold up into a cabinet. Futons and sofa beds are also popular, and though they’re more commonly used with full mattresses, you can find some queen-size options too. While all these options save space, they require a little more work to set up.
Material
Queen bed frames are made of a variety of materials. Here are some of the most common ones:
Wood: These bed frames vary in price depending on the type of wood used. A hardwood frame is a long-term investment. While pricier, these bed frames are durable and often beautifully crafted to function as the centerpiece of the room.
Steel: Inexpensive, modern metal queen bed frames are light, versatile, and relatively inexpensive. They aren’t particularly decorative, which may suit those who prefer simpler décor.
Wrought iron: These very durable bed frames offer a more traditional look and are highly durable. Most have a head and foot and some are canopy bed frames.
Upholstery: Many of the more expensive queen bed frames are upholstered. These are comfortable and stylish and come in a wide range of patterns and colors.
Size
While a smaller bed frame like a twin or even full might be pushed against the wall if used by one person, most queen beds are placed in the center of the wall to allow access from both sides. Standard simple bed frames aren’t wider than the mattress, but most other types of frames add a couple of inches at least. Measure your bedroom to make sure you have room for the size of the frame. If you opt for a bed frame with posts and a canopy, make sure your ceiling is high enough.
Box spring
With innovative new mattresses, and the inexpensive and supportive nature of platform beds, box springs are less popular. Many frames don’t require the use of a box spring, but it’s worth double-checking before you buy. Most simple metal bed frames require a box spring.
Wheels on some simple bed frames allow you to easily move the bed. However, they can scratch flooring, and the bed could move around if the wheels don’t lock.
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Features
Style
Queen bed frames can be simple or ornate, modern or rustic, and everything in between. Mid-century modern, contemporary, Scandanavian, and farmhouse are among the more popular styles. Colors, material, design, and even size all contribute to the style of the frame. You might want a frame that coordinates with your other bedroom furniture or one that serves as a focal point. Some platform and panel bed frames offer different color options, though many are typically neutral tones.
Shelter headboard
This unique type of headboard dates from the 15th century and wraps slightly around the sides of the bed, mimicking the style of a wingback chair to create a cozy, comfortable, and elegant sleeping space.
Storage
Some queen bed frames offer storage options too. Some have drawers under the bed to store sheets and blankets. Bookcase bed frames have shelves built into the headboard. Some Murphy beds include shelving as well.
Adjustable
Not to be confused with folding bed frames, adjustable bed frames are used with foam mattresses by people who need to adjust the angle at the head, feet, or both. These beds are remote-controlled.
DID YOU KNOW?
One innovation gaining in popularity is the TV bed that features a television on a lift in the footer that emerges via remote control.
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Accessories
Under-bed storage: Whitmor Under-bed Storage Bags
If you have a queen bed frame that doesn't include drawers, a set of under-bed bags can help you stay organized. We like this inexpensive set of zippered cloth bags to hold sheets, blankets, or even off-season clothes.
Queen bed sheets: Mellanni Bed Sheets
A quality set of sheets will help you sleep comfortably all year. We recommend this brushed microfiber set from Mellanni that comes in more than 40 colors and patterns.
Queen mattress: Saatva Classic Mattress
Our favorite queen mattress, the Classic from Saatvaa, is an impressive hybrid mattress that supports all sleep positions and body types and includes free delivery and a lengthy sleep trial.
Queen bed frame prices
Inexpensive: For under $100, you can purchase a simple, functional, unadorned queen bed frame.
Mid-range: For between $100 and $500, you can find a range of queen bed frames, including platform and panel selections with various storage and color options.
Expensive: Ornate, stylish, and upholstered bed frames cost over $500, with some high-quality frames costing over $1,000.
They aren’t common, but there are queen bunk beds and loft beds. While these offer a space-saving solution with larger beds, they have a lower weight limit.
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Tips
- Note the height of the frame off the floor. The profile of a frame indicates how high it is off the floor. You’ll find low, standard, and high profiles. Your choice will depend on the sleeper’s height and ability to get in and out of bed.
- Inspect the frame’s legs. If your bedroom is carpeted, you won’t need to worry about the frame moving and scraping the floor, but if you have a hardwood or other type of floor, invest in some caps or pads for the legs to protect the flooring.
- Check the quality and number of slats. More and stronger slats offer good support for your mattress. Poor-quality slats might need to be replaced.
- Note the weight limit. While the weight limit isn’t typically an issue for high-quality bed frames, note any weight limit on simple or inexpensive frames, especially if two people will be sharing the bed.
FAQ
Q. Should I buy a mattress or a bed frame first?
A. If you’re in the market for both items, it’s best to look at mattresses before you buy the frame. While the frame supports the mattress, the decisions that go into choosing one are mainly style, design, and practical concerns involving space and dimensions. Mattresses are wholly functional, and it’s important that you find the one that matches your needs. It’s better to find the perfect mattress first and then find the frame that accommodates it.
Q. Will I have to assemble the bed frame?
A. Most bed frames require some assembly, and in most cases it requires two people working together. Set up the frame in the bedroom, aligning it in the proper direction so you won’t need to move or turn it later. It’s important that you carefully follow the instructions and tighten every screw so the bed is secure. Double-check that all tools and instructions are included.
Q. What’s the purpose of a headboard?
A. The headboard protects the wall from damage and supports pillows. In the past, it served to keep the sleeper warmer in a drafty, poorly insulated room. A headboard also serves as a backrest for those who like to sit up and read in bed. Headboards range in size, style, and composition, so they are also aesthetically important. One could be the focal point of the bedroom or help fill out a room with a high ceiling. If you like the look of a headboard without the expense, you can also paint a “headboard” on the wall behind the bed.
