Finding the right queen bed frame is just as important as finding the right queen mattress. Mattresses are expensive, and the best way to ensure the longevity of your purchase is proper support. The right queen bed frame will also help you keep cooler and sleep better.
Whether you’ve already got the mattress, or you’re buying new furniture for the entire bedroom, there’s a lot to consider. Some sleepers want functionality, others want style. Our top pick, the Zinus Upholstered Queen Bed Frame, is a good mix of both.
What to know before you buy a queen bed frame
Design
Queen bed frames come in a few basic designs. A platform frame raises the mattress off the floor and works especially well with trendy foam and hybrid mattresses. A panel frame goes one step further, adding a headboard, footboard and side panels. This gives your bed a more complete or classic look.
If you want to go all out, a canopy frame has posts on all four corners. You can sleep under plants, lights or whatever else you want. For a minimalist look, a simple frame will support your bed and keep you within budget.
Before you buy, make sure you know whether your mattress or frame requires a box spring. Some do, and some don’t.
Material
Different materials provide different aesthetic and practical benefits. Wood frames are the traditional choice. They’re durable and look great, but a custom design can get pricey. Steel frames are a less expensive alternative, but some sleepers may want a homier feel for their bedrooms. Wrought iron frames combine the classic look of wood with the strength of steel, but they may not be the right choice for simpler decors.
Many frames can also come upholstered, allowing you to customize your space and sleeping experience as you see fit.
Room placement
Standard queen bed frames aren’t wider than the mattress you already have, or the mattress you’re looking to buy, but most will add at least a few inches to the length of your bed.
Those extra few inches might mean the difference between a cozy room or a cramped one. Measure everything when considering the best room placement. You may find that while a big fancy queen bed frame looks nice in theory, there’s just not enough space for it. Don’t forget to measure the ceiling height if you’re considering a canopy frame.
Queen bed frame features
Storage
Need more storage space? Some queen bed frames come with drawers under the bed to store blankets, sheets or whatever else you need. A higher frame without drawers can provide enough space underneath to store luggage and other bulky items. Measure your items before you buy your frame to check for clearance. If you live in a small apartment, that extra room may make a big difference.
Like to read at night? Many queen bed frames have bookcases built into the headboard.
Adjustable
If you need customizable support for your head, feet or both, adjustable queen bed frames can help. A simple remote control raises or lowers part of your mattress for a better sleeping experience. Adjustable frames are also great for reading or watching TV in bed.
Adjustable queen bed frames work best with foam mattresses and other mattresses specifically designed for adjustable frames. They are not recommended for traditional spring or air mattresses.
Unique styles
Do you want a queen bed frame that blends into the other furniture in your bedroom, or do you want a bold statement frame that will serve as the focal point of the room? Both are great choices. Most platform and panel bed frames will come in neutral tones like brown, black or gray. You can liven this up a bit with a unique headboard — like a wingback headboard — or custom upholstery.
If it’s in your budget, a custom frame that reflects your unique style may be worth the extra time and money.
Queen bed frame cost
No-frill frames cost less than $100. Midrange frames cost anywhere from $100 to $500. Elaborate and/or upholstered frames will cost at least $500 and can often run over $1000, depending on the material.
Queen bed frame FAQ
Will I have to assemble the bed frame myself?
A. Most bed frames require assembly, and most assembly requires two people. Read through the entire instructions before you begin, and follow them carefully. Most companies have a phone number you can call if you get confused. If you don’t want to assemble the frame yourself, you can hire someone online.
Should I buy the frame or the mattress first?
A. If you’re buying a mattress and a frame at the same time, choose the mattress first. Mattresses are functional and more expensive. It can take time to find the perfect fit. Most bed frame choices are aesthetic, which makes things a bit easier.
Which queen bed frame should I get?
Best of the best queen bed frame
Zinus Upholstered Queen Bed Frame: available at Amazon
Our take: An elegant choice that won’t break the bank.
What we like: You can assemble this frame in 20 minutes, and the 3- to 6-inch slats provide great support for a variety of sleepers. Your mattress will stay put once in the frame.
What we dislike: Fabric wears easily without proper maintenance and care.
Best bang for your buck queen bed frame
Alwyn Home Hampton 14-Inch Platform Bed Frame: available at Wayfair
Our take: A sturdy choice if you’re looking for something basic.
What we like: The minimalist design will work perfectly with any decor. This 14-inch platform bed has great reviews and plenty of room for storage.
What we dislike: Some users report issues with the frame squeaking.
Honorable mention queen bed frame
Inez Queen Canopy Bed: available at Wayfair
Our take: A canopy bed frame that feels modern, not old-fashioned.
What we like: The price is affordable and it has terrific reviews. This frame would work in any type of room, and a box spring is required.
What we dislike: Some users report that this frame is not as sturdy as they would like.
Frank Paiva is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
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