Best Mattress Frames: Choose the Support your Bed Needs
Bed frames are not only decorative and add to the overall feel you are shooting for in your bedroom, it is an important component of a good night’s sleep. You need to ensure your mattress is properly supported to get the best comfort out of it, and that means you cannot just buy any frame that catches your fancy without first checking to see if it will work with your mattress type.
If you are on the market for a new mattress frame for an existing mattress, or are looking for a good frame and mattress combination, you want to check out our buying guide below. We’ve done the legwork in advance to provide you some of the best options to consider for both comfort and style.
| Rank | Product | Highlights |
| #1 |  Zinus 12-Inch Wood Platform Bed
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| #2 |  Midwest Farmhouse Rustic Platform Bed & Headboard
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| #3 |  Zinus Arnav Modern Studio Bed Frame
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| #4 |  DHP Tokyo Platform Bed Frame
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| #5 |  LUCID L300 Adjustable Base
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Table Of Contents
- Importance of a Bed Frame
- Types of Bed Frames
- Metal Bases
- Platform Beds
- Wooden Frames
- Adjustable Beds
- Mattress Types and Frame Support Needs
- Memory Foam Mattresses
- Latex Mattresses
- Hybrid Mattresses
- Innerspring Mattresses
- Best Mattress Frames
- Zinus 12-Inch Wood Platform Bed
- Midwest Farmhouse Rustic Platform Bed & Headboard
- Zinus Arnav Modern Studio Bed Frame
- DHP Tokyo Platform Bed Frame
- LUCID L300 Adjustable Base
- Conclusion
Importance of a Bed Frame
Bed frames hold your mattress and bodyweight securely above the floor to provide support and airflow (and in many cases storage) and allow for overall mattress protection. There is a huge array of various styles to fit both budget and decorative needs, but what you need to pay the most attention to is the type of platform support it provides as not all mattresses can take advantage of a box spring.
You can always place a bed on the floor, but you run the risk of trapping humidity and restricting airflow which can lead to mildew or mold growth. Most mattresses are designed for frame support as well to provide the best possible comfort. Generally, a flat surface with no give will create a firmer option than what the mattress is supposed to provide.
Types of Bed Frames
Bed frames are made from a huge array of materials and offer various supports to help support your mattress. Always be sure to pick the frame that your mattress manufacturer suggests to avoid voiding a warranty and keeping the support and comfort your sleep surface offers.
Metal Bases
Most frames have a basic metal foundation to provide durable support for slats, head and footboards, and sideboards. You can also buy an all metal foundation and support to add your outer frame too, or look for an all metal frame that includes head and footboards as well.
Platform Beds
Platform beds offer a solid, flat surface that most foam beds require to be properly supported. These often have decent storage underneath, and can be used with a box spring as well if your mattress can be used to provide a bit more bed height. They may be basic, and just offer the foundation to which you can add a head or footboard, or have attached details.
Wooden Frames
Wood frames are amongst the most versatile and provide a wide array of traditional and modern options. Some may have a metal inner frame for added support, and they may have supportive slats, a platform, or a base designed for box springs to work with the style of mattress you prefer.
Adjustable Beds
Adjustable beds are designed to work with a mattress that is more ergonomic in their design to provide a lift to the head and foot areas. These are specially designed and provide comfort and support to get in and out of bed, lift for acid reflux and GERD symptoms, and help with injury and recovery.
Mattress Types and Frame Support Needs
You need to make sure you match the type of mattress you have or want with both the size and specific support it allows. This is especially important for choices that include memory foam to keep from voiding warranties and keep your mattress lasting as long as it is designed to. Be sure to pay attention to these details to help make the perfect mattress and frame match.
Memory Foam Mattresses
The viscoelastic foam that makes up the contouring memory surface feel that people enjoy for a supportive, cushioning surface creates some unique support needs. It needs a very supportive surface to rest upon to avoid overly compressing the foam and creating uneven surfaces. A flat platform, or closely slatted platform-style bed is important to use. They cannot be used with a box spring of any kind.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses are highly sought after due to their incredible durability and buoyancy that offers cushioning comfort without a foam sink or compression. They are made with layers, and it isn’t odd to find them with a memory foam top layer, or as a popular addition in hybrid mattresses. Be sure to check with manufacturers about the support needed, but they often can work with a wide variety of frame types, including box springs.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses layer with various foams, such as memory or latex, and encompass an innerspring core to provide excellent support without sacrificing surface comfort and conformation. These mattresses often need a platform or closely slatted surface, but some may be allowed to rest on a box spring if they do not have a foam base. Be sure to check carefully with the manufacturer to choose the proper surface to rest it upon.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses have long been a go to for long-lasting, firm support. They do not need a special frame and work with platform, slat, and box springs alike. They provide good airflow due to their layered cushioning support and innerspring lift that is ideal for couples and heavier bodies. As usual, follow manufacturing suggestions for support to avoid voiding a warranty.
Best Mattress Frames
The following frames are some of the most supportive and popular for both quality and comfort. This selection highlights the many styles you may want to consider and provides an overview of what is out there for you to pick from. Take a look at our top picks to help save you time when researching what is best for your mattress, and decor.
Zinus 12-Inch Wood Platform Bed
Specs:
- Bed Type: Wooden Platform
- Size Support: Twin, Full, Queen, King
- Features: basic design, basic warm cherry finish, internal steel frame, center support rail, 9-inch clearance
Best Wooden Platform Mattress Frame
Zinus is a very popular brand and offers a huge array of bed frames from which to choose from. The 12-inch wooden frame provides a platform surface for any type of mattress and can work with a box spring as well. The simple design and basic foundation have slatted support that sits in grooves for added security and has a foam padded-tape to keep your mattress from slipping.
The warm cherry finish works with both modern and rustic decor, and is a great choice for simple decor and small spaces. Stabilized by an internal, steel frame, it boasts a center support rail for 500 lbs of load-bearing as well. A 9-inch clearance makes it perfect for an added trundle or storage.
Pros
- Great for any decor match
- Sturdy and holds mattresses in place
- Add slats for increased firmness
Cons
- No built-in ability to add headboard or footboard and must do it yourself
Who Should Purchase This
Simple and affordable, this basic design is a great choice for any bed and offers the support and strength you need for long-lasting durability. You can even add your head or footboard.
Midwest Farmhouse Rustic Platform Bed & Headboard
Specs:
- Bed Type: Wooden Platform with Headboard
- Size Support: Queen
- Features: Built-in headboard, eco-friendly stain and finish, lightweight design, platform support
Best Rustic Wooden Mattress Frame
Truly perfect for any rustic, classic, or even contemporary bedroom decor, this wooden frame with attached headboard is handcrafted and uses an eco-friendly stain and finish. The slatted support can be used as a platform due to the closeness of the slats, or you can add a boxspring to help raise the height of the bed.
Easy to put together, a lip along the edge helps keep your mattress in place and center support is offered for larger frame sizes for added support. Designed for a timeless look, this is a durable option that will look great in any bedroom and has a 6.75-inch clearance for easy storage.
Pros
- Handmade style
- Durable and easy to assemble
- Very supportive
Cons
- The headboard is not removable and is built-in
Who Should Purchase This
This is a great choice that can be passed down and will provide a great looking furniture option in all bedrooms.
Zinus Arnav Modern Studio Bed Frame
Specs:
- Bed Type: Metal platform with headboard
- Size Support: Twin, Full, Queen, King
- Features: Full metal foundation with wooden slats, non-slip slat foam surface, 7 inches of clearance, build in headboard
Best Modern Metal Mattress Frame
Another quality Zinus, this modern studio bed frame is a full metal frame that offers a highly durable steel option with wooden slat support that you can add to depending on your mattress type. Considered a platform design, the wooden slats have a foam padded top to provide a slip-free experience as well and can handle a box spring if you desire.
The basic frame has an attached headboard that looks great in a more contemporary setting, as well as traditional due to its simplicity. It also offers a full 7 inches of clearance which is perfect for many storage solutions.
Pros
- Durable and long-lasting
- Great storage space underneath
- Non-slip surface on slats
Cons
- Low profile
Who Should Purchase This
A good, sturdy metal frame is a timeless, long-lasting option that you don’t have to worry about being nicked or scratched up too easily. They also offer a great paintable choice to customize for any decor.
DHP Tokyo Platform Bed Frame
Specs:
- Bed Type: Metal platform with head and footboard
- Size Support: Twin (daybed style), Full, Queen, King
- Features: All-metal design with metal slats, crossbar support, lipped side for mattress support, 11.5 inches of clearance
Best Metal Scroll Mattress Frame
This metal frame is a classic choice that offers a scrollwork design for both headboard and footboard detail. Incredible durable, it also boasts metal slats for incredible mattress support that will never sag. The mid-line brace also helps keep you comfortable for many years without sacrificing support.
The 11.5 inches of clearance beneath the frame makes it perfect for storage and provides a height that is comfortable without added box springs to work with all mattress types. The lipped sides keep your mattress from slipping as well.
Pros
- Easy to assemble and is sturdy
- Solid metal design for durability
- Beautiful overall design
Cons
- Twin on in daybed style, not traditional
Who Should Purchase This
If you like the idea of a more traditional, timeless look, this is a great option. The bronze finish is perfect for just about any decor as well.
LUCID L300 Adjustable Base
Specs:
- Bed Type: Adjustable Frame
- Size Support: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, Split King
- Features: Separate head and foot controls, wireless remote, built-in USB ports, mattress options available, memory customization
Best Adjustable Mattress Frame
Lucid is another popular brand name and offers quality products. Their adjustable bed is no exception, and you can even purchase a mattress with the bed frame if you desire a perfect match. This adjustable option offers separate head and foot operation and allows for up to 60 and 45-degree inclines respectively.
The retainer bar, wireless remote, and memory feature with zero-gravity button creates unparalleled support and full comfort customization. Plus, the remote has a flashlight built in to ensure you can always find what you need in the dark. USB outlets are built into the base as well, making it incredibly convenient and popular for lounging as well. Headboard brackets and bluetooth compatibility is also available.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Wireless remote and built-in flashlight
- Built-in power for convenience
Cons
- Legs may be tall (shorter ones available for extra)
Who Should Buy This?
If you want a convenient pack that includes a basic adjustable bed base and a mattress that’s compatible with it, you should take a look into what the Lucid L300 has to offer.
Conclusion
When shopping for a dependable, long-lasting mattress frame, you want to make sure you are getting the best quality for your budget. These are all budget-friendly and popular choices with consumers everywhere, and provide support for a huge range of mattress options.
Always be sure to check with mattress manufacturers for the best frame supports to avoid voiding warranties, and buy a frame that fits your mattress choice best. These timeless classics offer wooden and metal choices for any decor, or comfort need.