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Best Full-Size Bed Frames

Corey Majeau

Bed frames are the next important item to purchase after you’ve found the right mattress for you. The bed frame should be able to withstand movement, wear and tear, and not squeak or tweak. To find the right bed frame, you have to keep your mattress in mind, but also factor in some bed frame-only related features. The size, style and material used for the frame can all make a difference in your choice.

In this article, we’ve discussed bed frame basics for you and have found some ideal options for sturdy, reliable bed frames you can count on.

1. Zinus Shawn 14-Inch SmartBase Mattress Foundation – Editor's Choice

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  • Best Overall Bed Frame

2. AmazonBasics Foldable, Metal Platform Bed Frame with Tool-Free Assembly

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  • Most Convenient Bed Frame

3. Linenspa 6-Inch innerspring Mattress with Linenspa 14-Inch Folding Platform Bed Frame

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  • Best Two-In-One Purchase

4. Zinus Van 16-Inch Metal Platform Bed Frame with Steel Slat Support

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  • Premium Pick

5. Classic Brands Hercules Heavy-Duty 14-Inch Platform Metal Bed Frame

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  • Best Guest-Room Frame

Best Full-Size Bed Frames

1. Zinus Shawn 14-Inch SmartBase Mattress Foundation – Editor's Choice

Highlights

  • Best Overall Bed Frame

Pros

  • Plastic caps over the legs
  • SmartBase removes need for box spring
  • Tool-free assembly
  • 13 inches of storage space underneath frame
  • Round corners
  • Various frame styles available
  • 5-year warranty

Cons

  • Too much movement can damage the steel bars

The best overall option for a bed frame is the Zinus SmartBase Mattress Foundation. The frame is constructed out of steel, with the steel wires measuring 4 inches apart. To protect your floors from any scratches, each leg has a plastic cap over it. There’s no box spring required with this SmartBase as it combines the frame and box spring necessities in one easy-to-assemble frame.

Underneath the frame is 13 inches of extra space for your belongings and storage. To prevent any accidents, the corners are rounded so any direct contact should not be harmful, perfect if you have little ones running around. This frame comes in seven different sizes: Narrow twin, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King.

The frame itself can also come in different styles: regular, bed skirt, deluxe and an adjustable base. If you wish, you can also purchase separate headboard brackets from Zinus to create your ideal sleeping environment. The twin, narrow twin and twin XL were all made to hold up to 250 lbs. Larger bed frames can hold up to 500 lbs. This frame also comes with a 5-year limited warranty on any defects in manufacturing.

2. AmazonBasics Foldable, Metal Platform Bed Frame with Tool-Free Assembly

Highlights

  • Most Convenient Bed Frame

Pros

  • Noise-free sleeping experience
  • No box spring required
  • 13/17 inches of free space
  • Tool-free foldable assembly
  • Can be coupled with headboard
  • 1-year warranty

Cons

  • Frame may not sit flat in some cases.

AmazonBasics has an easy and lightweight solution to frame-ridden mattresses, which is their foldable, metal platform bed frame. The joints and legs are tightly secured for a noise-free sleeping experience. There’s no need to use a box spring with this bed frame, either. Instead, you have a durable, steel constructed frame with a black finish. Underneath the frame is 13 inches of free space at your disposal.

The setup is fast, simple, and doesn’t call for any use of tools. Simply fold it open and lock in place! This frame comes in six different sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King and California King. There are holes at the top of the frame to install a headboard of your choice. You have the option between a bed frame that stands at 14 inches with 13 inches of space underneath, and another standing at 18, with 17 inches of free space.

The entire frame measures 84 x 72 inches, with either 14 or 18 inches in height. This frame from AmazonBasics comes with a 1-year warranty and can be used with any type of mattress including latex, innerspring and memory foam.

3. Linenspa 6-Inch innerspring Mattress with Linenspa 14-Inch Folding Platform Bed Frame

Highlights

  • Best Two-In-One Purchase

Pros

  • Both mattress and frame come together
  • 13 inches of free space underneath
  • Rubberized-anti-slip grips
  • No box spring required
  • Many available styles and headboard brackets

Cons

  • Mattresses other than Linenspa may move around on frame

An issue some people face is searching for a mattress and frame that complement one another. This isn’t an issue with Linenspa, as they sell their mattress and frame as a package deal. In this purchase is a 6-inch innerspring mattress with a 14-inch folding platform base.

The mattress is backed with a 10-year warranty while the frame comes with a 5-year warranty. However, if you only need the frame, note that some reviewers have mentioned other mattresses moving around as it’s not the frame’s original counterpart. There are 13 inches underneath the bed for extra storage, and the legs have rubberized anti-slip grips to prevent any movement and scratching to your floor.

The frame itself can hold up to 750 lbs, not including the mattress. There’s no need to use a box spring when you use this frame, either. Assembly is quick and easy, taking no more than ten minutes with the easy to follow instructions. This frame comes in six sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King and California King. The frame can be ordered in either contemporary or traditional style, with additional traditional stylized headboard brackets.

4. Zinus Van 16-Inch Metal Platform Bed Frame with Steel Slat Support

Highlights

  • Premium Pick

Pros

  • Prevents sagging
  • Removes the need for box spring
  • Quick assembly within minutes
  • 14 inches of free space
  • Foam padding to prevent noise
  • Option for rounded corners

Cons

  • Mattress may shift in the frame with too much body movement

Yet another Zinus option, the Van 16-inch Metal Platform Bed Frame is a great choice for a bed frame. This edition comes with the same strong support and steel slats that should keep your mattress comfortable and in place.

They will also prevent any sagging underneath the mattress which can shorten the lifespan of a mattress. This frame also removes the typical need for a box spring to keep the mattress supported and sturdy.

The assembly is quick and happens within minutes. Underneath the frame, there is 14 inches worth of storage space for your belongings.

To help ensure your sleep is as restful as can be, there are additional foam paddings you can place on the frame to prevent any squeaky joints and enjoy a peaceful sleep. The maximum capacity for these frames is typically 500 lbs.

There are four standard sizes to choose from for this select frame: Twin, Full, Queen, and King. You can also choose whether or not you want rounded or sharp corners.

5. Classic Brands Hercules Heavy-Duty 14-Inch Platform Metal Bed Frame

Highlights

  • Best Guest-Room Frame

Pros

  • Stand-alone or partnered with wood
  • No sagging/holes/bumps
  • Built-in headboard brackets
  • 13 inches of free space
  • Compatible with all mattress types
  • Foldable for easy storage

Cons

  • Can begin to squeak after continuous use.

The Classic Brands Hercules is great for extra support inside another frame when you need it. If you partner this with a wooden frame, you’ll have a long-lasting, appealing bed frame.

It can also be used as a stand-alone metal frame, and the even support from the slats will ensure your mattress doesn’t sag at night or create holes/lumps in the filling.

This frame also comes with built-in headboard brackets. Underneath the frame, there’s 13 inches of space for storage.

This frame can support memory foam, inner spring, latex and hybrid mattresses. The heavy-duty steel frame ensures the longevity of your mattress’s lifespan.

The platform frame is also foldable for easy storage and assembly, making it ideal for visitors and guest rooms. There are no tools required for its assembly, and there’s no need to use a box spring over this frame.

The sizes available are: Twin, Twin XL (both of which can hold up to 1200 lbs), Full, Queen, King and California King – all of which can hold up to 2400 lbs. The frame comes with a three-year warranty to cover any manufacturing defects.

Bed Frame Sizes

Naturally, the size of the frame should complement your mattress’ size. This ensures there’s minimal movement or shuffling while you sleep.

Most good mattresses are made with a standardized size in mind, though there’ll be some that leave extra space or don’t fit on frames. Make sure to measure your mattress’ exact measurements so it will fit perfectly into the frame you want. Here is a list of standard mattress sizes;

  • Twin – 38 x 75 inches
  • Twin XL – 38 x 80 inches
  • Full – 54 x 75 inches
  • Queen – 60 x 80 inches
  • King – 76 x 80 inches
  • California King – 72 x 84 inches

This is a general idea for mattresses, though each mattress’s exact size can vary.

Bed Frame Materials

Material will determine the artful effect of the bed while also promising a certain amount of support for your mattress. There are numerous materials to select from based on your preference or style of bedroom decor; the classics of metal and wood, with other assorted materials such as leather and upholstery or fabric bed frames.

Metal Frames

Metal can always provide a room with timeless elegance while also being a sturdy frame for your mattress for years. Metal frames don’t wear or break easily, so their longevity is promised.

Some frames have thin, woven designs while others are robust and sleek with sharp edges and clean lines. Metal frames are usually constructed from steel, iron, aluminum, brass or other select alloys.

There are both lightweight metal frames and heavy ones, and it’s important to find your ideal balance between design/aesthetics and quality/convenience.

Wooden Frames

Wood is an iconic look that simply can’t be replicated by any other material. While many choose wood for its organic warmth, some recognize its cost effectiveness, softer texture and anti-warping/swelling qualities.

One drawback with wood, however, is that it shrinks and expands with changing temperature, which can require higher maintenance and possibly replacements. Common woods used to create frames are oak, mahogany, walnut and pine.

Leather Frames

Whether you’re a fan of genuine or faux leather, it’s an eloquent material that tends to be the centrepiece of a room’s aesthetic appeal. Leather frames will require hefty amounts of maintenance throughout the year and aren’t as long-lasting as wooden or metal frames.

Leather can come in two styles of frames: sleigh and platform. Typically, the actual skeleton or frame of the bed is wooden, while the leather is simply placed over it for the final effect.

Upholstery Frames

Upholstered frames have extra padding for a superbly comfortable frame and headboard. The main center of attention for upholstered frames is their noticeable headboards.

The fabric used to create the upholstered cover are usually cotton or linen. Upholstered frames can be panel, platform, poster, and sleigh beds and have a skeleton of wood underneath the upholstery.

To maintain the upholstery, spot cleaning should be done often so no stains or indents develop over the fabric.

Bed Frame Styles

There are a wide variety of bed styles to choose from when you select a frame. Keep in mind, some mattresses will only fit properly on specific frames, so it’s essential to keep in mind what type of mattress you are using before you choose a frame.

Panel Frame

A panel frame will have a flat headboard and footboard to resemble panels. They come with railing on the sides and are made to accommodate box spring and mattresses.

Platform Frame

Platform frames have a lower profile than panel frames and make an ideal choice for a minimalist or modern décor bedroom theme. Platform frames eliminate the need for box springs in the bed, and some have built-in storage inside the frame for convenience.

Sleigh Frame

To complement the name, sleigh frames resemble the appearance of a horse-drawn sleigh. They have a taller profile than regular frames for a more distinct presentation. Sleigh frames have a more elegant and comfortable presence in a room than other frames.

Poster Frame

Poster frames have stretched legs or posts positioned at each corner for a taller, authoritative demeanor. While they’re suited to creating a romantic environment, they look best when placed in a room with a heightened ceiling. This ensures there’s a balance between the amount of space and furniture in the room.

Adjustable Frame

Adjustable frames are the more modern and conventional type of frame. They can be modified into different positions based on the user’s needs or preferences. Adjustable bed frames often come in a metal construction with adjustable headrests.

Daybed Frame

A daybed frame has three enclosed sides and one left open, which is usually on the length side of the bed. They’re a blend of a cushy sofa and smaller-sized bed. These beds are space-saving miracles and are best for alternative sleeping solutions, e.g. in a guest room.

Conclusion

There are many questions to ask yourself when it comes to buying the best bed frame. What style do you like? Will the mattress fit? Once all of these questions have been researched and answered, you can invest in a frame to last you many sleep-filled years to come.

Always take your time when you make this choice. You can find the perfect mattress for yourself, but if you place it on the wrong bed frame, you’ll end up with horrible nights with barely any sleep. The right bed frame can be the difference between a good night’s sleep and the worst, and our top pick for the best night’s sleep is the Zinus Shawn 14-Inch SmartBase Mattress Foundation.