Consider the Size of the Mattress If you already have a mattress you love, choosing a new bed frame becomes a bit easier. If you have a full-size mattress, you want a double bed frame. If you have a queen-size mattress, you want to look at queen-size frames. Make sure you know whether your king-size mattress is a California king or an eastern king, as they're slightly different; a bed frame that fits one may not fit the other. If you're buying your entire bed set from scratch, consider how much room you have for a bed and what bed size makes you feel most comfortable. Consider the Size of the Room A bed is usually the largest piece of furniture in any bedroom, and a large bed can easily overpower a small room. Place your mattress on the floor to get a sense of its size, or use pillows or masking tape to approximate it. If you find that you already feel cramped, opt for a simple metal bed frame under your box spring to maximize the usable space in your bedroom. A simple platform bed frame can also be a space-saving option, and you can even expand your storage options by choosing a bed that offers drawers under the box spring or shelves in the headboard.
Choose Between a Platform Bed and a Box Spring With many platform beds, you only need a mattress and no box spring; this makes buying a platform bed a wise choice for many shoppers watching their budgets. Of course, some platform beds can also accommodate a box spring if you like your bed a little higher off the ground. The choice between platform bed and box spring is also a question of firmness for some, with many people preferring the hard foundation that many platform beds provide. Consider the Height and Bulkiness of the Bed If you desire the drama of a more elaborate bed frame, such as a four-poster or canopy bed, aim your tape measure toward the ceiling. A tall bed frame requires a high ceiling, as even a large bedroom can start to feel cramped. Do a little extra measuring as well if you prefer a bulky bed frame such as a sleigh bed or a bed frame-headboard combination with bookshelves included. Bear in mind that you might have to disassemble and reassemble larger beds to get them through a bedroom door, and make sure that's possible with your chosen frame.
Consider Your Own Decorating Style Because the bed is the focal point of any bedroom, choosing the right style is paramount. If you want to create a warm, welcoming, comfortable feel, you may want to opt for a wooden bed frame, piling up quilts and pillows to set a cozy mood. Those who prefer a sleek, modern look should choose a bed frame of metal or wood with clean, minimalist lines. Once you've figured out what styles might fit in your bedroom, take a look at various models, including upholstered bed frames, sleigh beds, wrought-iron beds, and brass beds to find what suits you best. Bed Frames for Guest Rooms and Kids' Rooms When furnishing a kid's room or a guest room, you have even more options. Consider a daybed for the guest room so you can use the space as a home office or crafting room when you don't have guests. A bed with a trundle works well for both overnight guests and kids' sleepovers, and bunk beds are another handy, space-saving option for kids.Buying a Bed Frame, Mattress, and Box Springs
Before buying your bed, evaluate your needs, your room size, and be prepared to "test drive" for comfort! Share your take on this idea!Upload your photo here. Do you need a new bed? Most of us replace our mattresses every 8 to 10 years. Yet, if you've noticed you're not sleeping soundly, if your bed is lumpy, too-hard, too-soft, or just plain uncomfortable, it may be time to buy a new one, regardless of its age. The first decision to make when buying a bed is size. Beyond the basic bed measurements, be sure to account for the addition of headboards and footboards, which can add 4 to 12 inches to each end. Bed coverings such as blankets and duvets will also add about 3 inches to both sides of the bed. If necessary, draw your room dimensions on graph paper and sketch in the furniture and various bed sizes to determine what bed size will work best. If possible, allow 24 to 36 inches of clear space all sides of the bed for movement and changing bed linens. To get an idea of which bed size works in your room, lay newspapers, towels, or rugs in the room and walk around the space.
Though sizes can vary somewhat by manufacturer, the standard bed sizes include: Twin: 38-39 x 75 inches Extra-Long Twin: 38-39 x 80 inches Double/Standard/Full Size: 54 x 75 inchesQueen: 60 x 80 inchesKing/Eastern King: 76-78 x 80 inches California/Western King: 72 x 84 inches How to Test Drive a Mattress Industry officials and salespeople recommend "test driving" a mattress before making a purchasing decision. If you will share the bed with someone, take him or her along. Wear comfortable clothing and easy-to-remove shoes and leave your dignity behind. Ask the salesman to leave you alone as you try each bed. Then, lie on the bed, move around, bounce a little, and sit on the edge. If you sit in bed to read or work, sit in the position you are likely to use. SUPPORTIVE TIP #1: Firm does not always mean better; it comes down to personal preference and body shape. The mattress should support your spine and have a bit of give at the pressure points where your body sinks deeper into the mattress.
No mattress is right for everyone.Check Warranty: Some manufacturers and stores offer a "sleep guarantee" or test period. If after buying the mattress, you find it's not the right one for you, they will swap it for a different style. Check on delivery costs: If they charge for each change, it can get costly. Don't base the useful life of your mattress on the warranty, which is protection against defects and faulty workmanship, not loss of comfort. Test your old mattress twice a year as you would a new one to be sure it is still comfortable and offers adequate support.SUPPORTIVE TIP #2: As you shop for bed frames, look for adequate slats for supporting the box spring and mattress and determine that the slats fit tightly into the frame. For beds designed to be used without box springs, a solid base provides support and even wear. Check labels and cutaway samples to see how the mattress is constructed. pare the number of coils and their construction, the number of padding layers and their materials, and special features.