Different Types of Platform Beds
Slatted Platform Beds
Many platform beds use a slatted construction. In this construction traditionally features horizontal slats that are evenly spaced to provide support. There are usually side rails and a center rail to support these slats.
Solid Platform Beds
Some platform beds use a more solid surface, like panels, to support the mattress. These options traditionally provide stable, even support, but they may not offer as much bounce or airflow as a slatted platform bed.
Wood Platform Beds
Some platform beds are constructed entirely of wood, but even beds with metal frames often include wood slats. Wood components are usually heavy and durable. However, this varies based on what type of wood the platform bed uses.
Metal Platform Beds
Metal platform beds are often lighter and easier to assemble and disassemble, which may appeal to customers who are concerned about setting up their platform bed by themselves. The durability and longevity of a metal platform bed depend largely on the type and quality of the metal.
Upholstered Platform Beds
If you like a plusher surface, an upholstered platform bed may appeal to you. Upholstered platform beds frequently come in a wider spectrum of colors, so it may be easier to find an option that goes with your room’s aesthetic. While upholstered platform beds have distinct benefits, they may be harder to clean than wood and metal models, which may make it challenging to remove allergens.
Floating Beds
Floating beds are designed to look like they are floating above the floor surface. Platform beds achieve this by placing the legs more towards the center of the bed frame. While this creates a sleek, modern look, most floating platform beds are relatively low to the ground, which may leave little room for under-bed storage and may make it more challenging to get into or out of bed. However, the placement of the legs may also make you less likely to stub your toe on your bed.
Storage Beds
Storage beds incorporate built-in under-bed storage. This can be a convenient place to tuck away extra sheets, pillows, and blankets.
Platform Bed Alternatives
While platform beds are growing in popularity, they are far from the only mattress support option on the market. Below, we’ll detail a few alternatives.
Box Spring
Most box springs consist of an upholstered wood frame. While some also have springs, this isn’t true of all box springs. Since box springs elevate the mattress, they may be beneficial for sleepers who have trouble getting into or out of bed. They also provide support for the mattress, so a quality box spring can help prevent sagging and extend the longevity of the mattress.
Bed Frames
Besides platform beds, there are several other frame designs intended to allow you to place your mattress directly on the frame without an additional support system.
On an adjustable bed, the mattress is traditionally placed directly on the frame, allowing it to move easily when the frame is adjusted. Similarly, most bunk beds are designed to support mattresses directly. Because bunk beds usually have limited clearance, the mattress is usually placed on the frame to maintain more overhead space and prevent the mattress from blocking safety rails. Since the bottom trundle beds must have a low enough profile to tuck underneath the upper bed, it is also traditionally placed directly on the frame.
Floating Beds
While some floating beds use a platform design, other designs are also available. Some models can be mounted to the wall and supported with just one leg to create even more of an illusion that the bed is floating above the ground.
Storage Beds
Whether you select a platform model or an alternate type of storage bed, a storage bed can provide a convenient solution to your storage needs. This type of bed comes equipped with under-bed storage, usually in the form of built-in drawers. Some beds with drawers come with headboards, which can give them a more substantial feel. These options are frequently heavier and are generally constructed of wood. They may also feature built-in nightstands or shelving.
H3 What Else Should You Consider When Buying a Platform Bed?
Mattress Warranty: Mattress warranties frequently include details about what sort of support you must use with your mattress. Not following these guidelines could void your warranty. Before purchasing a platform bed, you may want to read your warranty to ensure it will comply. Older warranties may require box springs, while newer warranties often specify how close together slats must be.
Weight Limits: Platform beds frequently have suggested weight limits. Exceeding these weight limits may decrease the longevity of the platform bed or lead to it feeling unstable. Remember that these weight limits generally refer to the combined weight that will be placed on the frame, so it includes the weight of the mattress and anyone who will be sleeping on the bed.
Platform Bed Height: Platform beds vary a great deal in height. Some models are low to the ground, while others are higher to provide more under-bed storage space. Lower mattresses may make a small space look more spacious, while higher models may be easier to get into or out of.
Storage Options: If you want to use the area under your bed for storage, you may want to pay careful attention to what storage options are available. Some platform beds come with built-in drawers, others include optional storage, and others leave the space open for you to use as you see fit.
Returns: If you are unsure if a platform bed will fit in your space or meet your needs, paying attention to a company’s return policies ahead of time can help ensure you don’t get stuck with a platform bed you can’t use.
Setup: Platform beds generally require some setup, which is frequently left to the customer. If you will be putting the platform bed together on your own, you may want to review all available setup information before making your purchase to make sure the instructions are easy enough to follow.
