We spend almost half our lives in bed, so it’s essential that we pick a good one. There are so many options when it comes to full-size beds that it can be hard to narrow down the best choice.
Whether you’re looking for a strong and classic metal frame, a wooden sleigh bed or an upholstered frame with rivets, this guide will help you figure out which full-size bed is the best for your needs and style. If you’re in need of a sturdy metal frame, the Olee Sleep Heavy-Duty Nonslip Bed Frame is compatible with all mattress types and allows for storage underneath.
What to know before you buy a full bed frame
Wood vs. metal
Wooden beds will last for many years, especially if they are made from solid wood and not a wood composite like medium-density fiberboard or particleboard. Genuine wood furniture is heavy and can be pricey, but it can endure a lot more wear and tear than other materials.
Metal frames are sturdy, light-weight as compared to wood and cost-efficient. Metal frames can be simple or intricately designed and they don’t require any maintenance except for dusting. Unfortunately, over time the bed will most likely start to squeak.
Upholstery
Upholstered beds come in a variety of fabrics and colors and can show off your personality. Generally upholstered beds are made from a metal or wood base, with padding and fabric covering the frame. Upholstery can be a more expensive feature to the frame but it always provides a more cohesive style to a room. Keep in mind that the fabric can become stained or dirty over time without proper care.
Types of bed frames
Sleigh
A sleigh bed resembles the traditional look of a sleigh with a high headboard and a generous footboard. These beds are big and luxurious, often made of wood and quite heavy. However, a footboard might not be the best for taller individuals.
Platform
Platform beds are one of the most affordable styles of beds on this list. Platform beds don’t require a box spring and you can utilize the space underneath for storage. They tend to be simple frames that don’t take up a lot of space but are low to the ground and can be a bit hard to get in and out of.
Murphy
Murphy beds are beds that fold up into a closet or shelving system while not being used. The mattress is secured to the frame and can be pulled down for use. Murphy beds are great for studio apartments or small places like dorms or modular homes.
Four-poster or canopy
Four-poster beds have pillars on all four corners of the bed, often up to several feet high. You’ll need to make sure your ceilings are high enough before you purchase a canopy bed, which is a four-poster draped with fabric at the top to provide privacy and luxury to the sleeper.
Trundle
Trundle beds look like any other bed, but they have a twin-sized mattress underneath that can be pulled out for guests. During the day the mattress is neatly stored without taking up space in the room. When nighttime arrives, just pull out the trundle bed like a dresser drawer.
Storage
Like trundle beds, storage beds appear to be the same as any other bed but have built-in storage underneath in the form of drawers or bins. Due to the extra storage features, these beds tend to be bulkier and more expensive.
Bunk bed
Bunk beds are great when you have multiple children sharing a room. Instead of two twin or full beds taking up most of the room, you gain back some of that real estate with a bunk bed. Full-over-full bunk beds are a little bit harder to find than twin-over-full, but you will have a few choices nevertheless.
Full bed frame cost
A simple metal frame will cost you about $50. A frame with a headboard either upholstered or metal will start in the $150 range. A wooden bed will start around $200 and go up from there. The materials used, quality of workmanship and brand name can increase the price to several hundred dollars.
Full bed frame FAQ
Which full bed frame would work best in a small bedroom?
A. The best styles for a small room would be platform or trundle so that you could maximize the room’s floor space. A platform bed would provide space underneath for storage and a trundle will provide an extra bed for guests. Avoid bulkier frames like four-poster or sleigh beds which, while beautiful, will take up too much space.
What is the difference between a full bed frame and a queen bed frame?
A. A full bed is only slightly smaller than a queen. A queen measures 60 inches wide by 80 inches long. A full measures 53 inches wide and 75 inches long, which is a difference of 7 inches in width and 5 inches in length. The measurements are fairly close but if you’ve got a small bedroom, every inch counts.
Which full bed frame should I get?
Best of the best full bed frame
Olee Sleep Heavy-Duty Nonslip Bed Frame: available at Amazon
Our take: Perfect for minimalists, this simple bed frame gets the job done.
What we like: This heavy-duty steel frame is headboard-compatible and doesn’t require a box spring. Generous storage space can be found underneath with a clearance of 13.5 inches.
What we dislike: The individual pieces are not labeled, which may become frustrating during assembly.
Best bang for your buck full bed frame
Zinus Platform Bed Frame with Storage: available at Amazon
Our take: No need for a box spring with this heavy-duty frame.
What we like: This heavy steel platform bed takes the place of a box spring and your mattress can sit right on top. It features a built-in squeak-free folding design and plenty of storage space underneath with 13 inches of clearance off the floor.
What we dislike: This bed is not recommended if you have a foam mattress.
Honorable mention full bed frame
DHP Upholstered Faux Leather Frame: available at Amazon
Our take: A sturdy and stylish leather upholstered frame.
What we like: Available in three colors and three sizes, this modern frame also comes with an additional underneath storage option. Wooden slats allow your mattress to breathe while also providing excellent support.
What we dislike: Some reviewers found that the slats were warped or broken.
Stefanie Hammond 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.
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