5 Tips for Buying a Bed Frame

We sleep an average of one third of our lives, so a well-built, comfortable bed frame and mattress is essential for a healthy, sound night's sleep. While the amount of sleep needed per night varies slightly by individual, experts recommend that most people should obtain at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Some people get less of this advised amount of sleep due to a host of reasons: newborn, job worries -- or an uncomfortable bed set.

Buying a new bed frame should be more than stretching out fully-clothed on a store bed set display. Follow these five tips to ensure your snoozing hours leave you rested and rejuvenated:

1. Choose the type of bed frame. Since the bed is typically the focal point of a bedroom, you'll want to select a bed frame that compliments your room decor. There are plenty of different types of bed frames to choose from. For instance, a canopy frame allows for a flowing, breathable fabric material to cover the frame, while a four poster bed has four tall posts, one for each corner of the frame. A sleigh bed frame takes it cue from the 19th century, with its signature scrolled headboard and foot board. A platform bed has a horizontal base elevated a foot or more from the floor. Trundle beds are popular as a child's bed; they're on caster wheels and typically have another sliding bed that stored under the bed. Last, but not least, daybeds typically use a twin-sized mattress, but are meant to look like a sofa.
2. Decide on the construction material. Opt for quality materials and workmanship when purchasing your bed frame. Both metal (iron or steel) and solid hardwood make for a durable, long-lasting bed frame. Additionally, look for a frame that's held together with screws or dowels, rather than simply particle board held together with resin-type binders. If you plan to move your bed frame frequently, consider purchasing a frame with wheels for mobility.
3. Select the right size. Most bed frames are available in twin, full, queen, king, and California king. Mattress sizes are 39 x 75 inches (Twin), 54 x 75 inches (Full), 60 x 80 inches (Queen), 76 x 80 inches (King), and 72 x 84 inches (California King). If possible, allow at least two feet of space around the sides and foot of the bed. Keep in mind that some bed frames are sleeker and more compact than others; therefore they take up less room. For instance a mission style bed frame will usually take up less space than a sleigh bed frame with a curved foot board and headboard. If you already have a mattress, make sure it will fit in your new bed frame.
4. Choose a comfortable height. By their very nature, bed frames are designed to elevate a mattress and box spring off the floor to make it comfortable for you to get in and out of bed. If you're planning on purchasing a mattress with a pillow top, a high bed frame combined with a pillow top mattress may prove difficult for getting into bed. On the other hand, a bed frame that is low to the ground can always be raised with bed risers.
5. Consider storage needs. If you have a smaller bedroom, it may be helpful to purchase a bed frame that contains storage space. Some bed frames have drawers underneath, which can serve as a chest of drawers. These types of bed frames are ideal for children since the drawers are low enough for them to easily reach them. Other bed frames incorporate shelves or cupboards within the headboard, which adds additional storage space for a lamp, clock, or books without taking up too much more floor space.