All Categories
  • Categories
    • Appliances
    • Bathroom
    • Bedroom
    • Cleaning
    • Electronics
    • Furniture
    • Organizing
    • Garden & Outdoor
    • Home Climate
    • Kitchen
    • Office
    • Tools
  • More
    • About
    • Contact
logo
  • Home
  • Bedroom
Unclutterer.com may earn commissions if you purchase a product through one of our affiliate links. Learn more

5 Best Platform Beds To Change Up Your Bedroom Style

Written by:
Unclutterer
Last Updated: February 19, 2021

While some of us might not realize, most of us do know how vital a good night's sleep is, and just how important a mattress is for the body to restore the energy we all need during sleep. Once you've decided on a new mattress you might look forward to considering all the options available when it comes to the bed frame itself, the base, or the foundation. If you prefer not to have a 'spacer' - a foundation or box spring that is usually placed underneath your mattress - then you may want to check out the best platform bed to suit you and your room style. They allow you to sit your chosen mattress directly on the frame without needing extra padding.

Not only do platform beds serve a purpose, they come in generally at a good price point so they do tend to be truly budget friendly. That said, depending on your budget, you can still go high end. It simply depends on the brand, the materials used, and of course how cleverly engineered the platform bed is. If you like great design the low profile modern style makes a fabulous statement and can be as bold or subtle as you like. If you are more concerned about how good at supporting your mattress and your weight a platform bed is, or how easy it is to get in and out of bed, there are plenty of options to suit even the most fussy of us!

So, what's a platform bed in plain and simple terms? Well, you may already know what a platform bed is but may refer to it as a cabin bed. It's a bed that will support your mattress without the need for a box spring. The two are just different names for the same thing.

A platform bed is a bed consisting of a raised base that is level, rectangular, and is a solid bed frame. They usually come with a choice involving a base consisting of a raised, level, usually rectangular horizontal frame. The mattress will sit directly on top of rows of flexible wooden slats and some are crafted using a latticed structure instead of slats. Platform beds are designed to support just a mattress and eliminate the need for an additional box spring or foundation.

The main difference between traditional beds and platform beds is just as we mentioned - you can place your mattress directly onto a platform bed so don't have to stretch to paying for an extra foundation. As general consumers, we aren't experts in beds but we found five of what we consider the best platform bed options available in the USA, each with free shipping, prompt delivery, and with their own unique advantages. Feel free to read on where you will see some good ideas on platform bed frames that suit every space and most tastes...

The Best Platform Bed

image
Best Choice
ZINUS SmartBase Metal Platform Bed Frame
Check Latest Price
image
Premium Pick
Olee Sleep 14 Inch Heavy Duty Steel Slat
Check Latest Price
image
Best Value
Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Platform Bed Frame
Check Latest Price

The Best Platform Bed

1. ZINUS SmartBase Metal Platform Bed Frame - Best Choice

HIGHLIGHTS:

    Five year limited warranty for peace of mind

    Easy to assemble and no tools are required

    As a permanent bedroom feature you would need the SmartBase headboard brackets if required

    The Zinus SmartBase bed frame is much less cumbersome than a traditional box spring one

    It's lightweight so should be easy to transport from your door to the bedroom

    A budget friendly option which is dependable and long lasting

    Can fold in half if it needs to be stored when not in use

    Regular and deluxe options are available

1.
ZINUS SmartBase Metal Platform Bed Frame - Best Choice
image
image
image
Check Latest Price

Needing no tools and very little assembly, the Zinus SmartBase is supplied and almost put together so is ready to set up in your bedroom or other location when you receive it. This platform frame comes in seven different size specs from the smallest, a Narrow Twin, through Queen size, all the way up to a California King, the longest bed available at 84 inches. This is a sturdy bed constructed with a steel frame with a little over a foot worth of storage space underneath, quite a significant amount compared with traditional beds. As with all platform bed frames there is no need to buy a separate box spring as the mattress can sit directly onto the frame.

Available in black metal this is great in a modern bedroom that welcomes clean lines and not too much fussy furniture - the Zinus SmartBase is ideal for using as the main bed frame and it's a friendly option for using in the spare room too. At fourteen inches in height, this model design is truly a low profile platform bed so is good for use as a kids bed frame and those that are able to stand up from a being seated lower to the ground than with a traditional bed. This type of platform bed frame is also commonly used in apartment living or student digs (it can be folded in half and transported when/if you need to move out) The low platform frame is suited to people of all heights although it would  be naive to think that any platform bed would be particularly suitable for those with mobility issues. People who struggle with muscle or joint pain as aches can be exaggerated by the amount of effort it can take to get into bed and getting to a standing position when climbing out of bed.

It is worth mentioning that there are weight limits to consider. The three smaller sizes - Narrow Twin, Twin and Twin XL - have a maximum limit of 750 lbs with the four larger sizes having double that weight limit at 1500 lbs. The weight limit figures include the mattress as well as the weight of the sleeper.

Surprisingly, even with a metal frame, the Zinus doesn't creak, squeak, or make any noticeable noise when in use.

This platform bed has been created using an unassuming design and is a simple and contemporary choice -popular with those wanting proper sleep support but who also need a budget friendly option.

We would highlight that, because of the steel wire supports, the thicker and firmer your mattress the more supported you will feel, especially for sleepers of a large/heavy size who may not feel the same support that lighter people will.

Learn more about ZINUS SmartBase Metal Platform Bed Frame

2. Olee Sleep 14 Inch Heavy Duty Steel Slat - Premium Pick

HIGHLIGHTS:

    Five year limited warranty for peace of mind

    Easy to assemble as all tools are supplied

    To add a headboard you will need to purchase separate brackets

    The Olee Sleep steel frame has an unassuming design, while a box spring can be added it is not required

    Delivered wrapped in toxic-free plastic and boxed so no mess when unboxed

    Basic or foldable options available

2.
Olee Sleep 14 Inch Heavy Duty Steel Slat - Premium Pick
image
image
image
Check Latest Price

A noise free option and a platform bed that comes with easy assembly, the basic or foldable option comes in four alternative size specifications - Twin, Full, Queen and King. The frames (basic model) are constructed using a sturdy black alloy steel and at fourteen inches high there is over a thirteen inch of clear storage space underneath. The foldable alternative is slightly lower off the ground at thirteen inches, giving just over a foot of storage space although the angled supports at the top and foot of the frame will limit this slightly.

The solid design on the basic model is modern and simple with the slats being just as thick and strong as the surrounding frame and legs. The feet have been neatly fitted with plastic which protects wooden or laminate flooring and will not slip on other hard flooring such as tiles unless your sexual activities are energetic!

Your chosen mattress can sit directly on the slats so there is no need to buy a separate box spring or foundation making this Olee Sleep frame budget friendly. The foldable option is a very similar design to the Zinus SmartBase (no.1 on our line up) and with no tools required it can fold and be stored or transported easily making it a great option for a small space like a dorm or compact apartment. There are extra wire supports in addition to the solid slats laying across the width and the foldable model has recessed legs to limit catching toes as you walk by it.

The no-fuss approach to design is great although with no side rails there is a chance that customers may have to find ways to prevent the mattress from sliding. Both options have different uses with the basic Olee Sleep frame being ideal as a permanent fixture and the foldable, as mentioned, a great idea in a spare room or a dorm where it may have to be moved out when the student finishes college.

A great option to a traditional upholstered bed even though it doesn't come with a headboard, the supplier promises that it is compatible with headboards but customers will need to purchase brackets separately. Any size and shape of sleeper with mobility issues may find this type of low profile bed frame, as with all platform beds, a little too difficult to maneuver into and out of bed as it is very close to the ground.

There is a weight limit of 600 lbs (per side) so it is a good choice for those of a heavier size, making the total recommended weight restriction 1200 lbs - not the highest limit that the Unclutterer team has discovered. It is worth noting that the thicker the mattress the more comfortable a sleep you will get.

Learn more about Olee Sleep 14 Inch Heavy Duty Steel Slat

3. Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Platform Bed Frame - Best Value

HIGHLIGHTS:

    Five year limited warranty for peace of mind

    Easy to assemble as all tools are supplied

    To add a headboard you will need to purchase separate brackets

    The Olee Sleep steel frame has an unassuming design, while a box spring can be added it is not required

    Delivered wrapped in toxic-free plastic and boxed so no mess when unboxed

    Basic or foldable options available

3.
Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Platform Bed Frame - Best Value
image
image
image
Check Latest Price

This is very similar to another we have reviewed. If you are looking for an upholstered platform bed then this can accommodate a headboard, you will need to purchase brackets (separately) then will be able to attach the headboard of your choice.

The AmazonBasics bed frame is available in seven size specs, from Twin sized to Cal King. It's also a good idea to choose if you don't want an ultra-low option as it's available at 14 inches or 18 inches high. As a platform bed frame, the choice of having a different height is unusual so much appreciated if you are looking at platform beds but don't want to compromise.

A noise free option and a platform bed that comes with easy assembly, the basic or foldable option comes in four alternative size specifications - Twin, Full, Queen and King. The frames (basic model) are constructed using a sturdy black alloy steel and at fourteen inches high there is over a thirteen inch of clear storage space underneath. The foldable alternative is slightly lower off the ground at thirteen inches, giving just over a foot of storage space although the angled supports at the top and foot of the frame will limit this slightly.

The solid design on the basic model is modern and simple with the slats being just as thick and strong as the surrounding frame and legs. The feet have been neatly fitted with plastic which protects wooden or laminate flooring and will not slip on other hard flooring such as tiles unless your sexual activities are energetic!

Your chosen mattress can sit directly on the slats so there is no need to buy a separate box spring or foundation making this Olee Sleep frame budget friendly. The foldable option is a very similar design to the Zinus SmartBase (no.1 on our line up) and with no tools required it can fold and be stored or transported easily making it a great option for a small space like a dorm or compact apartment. There are extra wire supports in addition to the solid slats laying across the width and the foldable model has recessed legs to limit catching toes as you walk by it.

The no-fuss approach to design is great although with no side rails there is a chance that customers may have to find ways to prevent the mattress from sliding. Both options have different uses with the basic Olee Sleep frame being ideal as a permanent fixture and the foldable, as mentioned, a great idea in a spare room or a dorm where it may have to be moved out when the student finishes college.

A great option to a traditional upholstered bed even though it doesn't come with a headboard, the supplier promises that it is compatible with headboards but customers will need to purchase brackets separately. Any size and shape of sleeper with mobility issues may find this type of low profile bed frame, as with all platform beds, a little too difficult to maneuver into and out of bed as it is very close to the ground.

There is a weight limit of 600 lbs (per side) so it is a good choice for those of a heavier size, making the total recommended weight restriction 1200 lbs - not the highest limit that the Unclutterer team has discovered. It is worth noting that the thicker the mattress the more comfortable a sleep you will get.

Learn more about Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Platform Bed Frame

4. ZINUS Compack Metal Bed Frame

HIGHLIGHTS:

    Five year limited warranty offers peace of mind

    Easy assembly and tools are supplied with a promise of approximately thirty minutes

    As a permanent bedroom feature customers may choose the Compack frame + headboard brackets option

    The Zinus Compack bed frame is much less cumbersome than a traditional frame

    It's lightweight and shipped boxed right to your door within the USA

    Six size options plus a universal size which is flexible

4.
ZINUS Compack Metal Bed Frame
image
image
Check Latest Price

Requiring little skill in the way of setting up flat pack furniture, the Zinus Compack comes supplied with the tools that are needed for assembly. While we are reviewing platform beds this is an alternative from Zinus. It is a stable and supportive low bed frame for a box spring plus mattress combo and is constructed in black steel which is durable, rust free, and will last for years. With nine safe recessed legs and a center support, the box spring can sit neatly on top and will support your mattress of choice. It offers very little space underneath - in fact, it's only around 7 inches up from the ground - and compares well to a more traditional box spring style bed.

Available with two options, with or without brackets to make it compatible with headboards, the Zinus Compack can be used in spare bedrooms or as a permanent fixture for those who like a non-fussy design. At its price point it works well for those looking for a low profile bed with plenty in the budget to buy a box spring which can be purchased from Zinus separately.

This frame is best for those who can stand up from a low level but with a good thick box spring and thick mattress, this makes all the difference. This type of frame design works well, therefore, for people of all heights.

It is worth mentioning that the Compack is available, with or without headboard brackets, in seven different size specifications. It may surprise some that this Zinus model is squeak free so there is no noticeable noise when it is in use.

It's a popular choice with those wanting the option of a contemporary style, simply designed, low sleeper who also wants to use a box spring for added support.

Learn more about ZINUS Compack Metal Bed Frame

5. Zinus Joseph 6 Inch Metal Platform Bed Frame

HIGHLIGHTS:

    Five year limited warranty for peace of mind

    Easy to assemble and no additional tools are required

    The Zinus Joseph bed frame does not require a box spring

    It's lightweight and boxed so is easy to transport from your door to the bedroom

    A high quality platform option which is dependable and long lasting

    6, 10, 14 and 18 inch height options available

5.
Zinus Joseph 6 Inch Metal Platform Bed Frame
image
image
image
Check Latest Price

Needing a few tools that are all supplied with the Zinus Joseph foundation bed frame, this model is easy to assemble. Supplied boxed, the Zinus is different from those we have already reviewed in our line up. This platform frame comes in five different size specs from the smallest, a Narrow Twin, through to King size - the longest bed available in this range at 80 inches. Each size is available in four different heights with the six inch being the lowest, giving a clearance of four inches underneath. The highest available is eighteen inches giving a clearance of 16 inches underneath.

This is a sturdy bed constructed with an inch-thick steel frame and, instead of using vertical legs, the Joseph has an all-round structure so it appeals to those wanting a more permanent option that is a genuine platform style with extremely good support. As with all platform bed frames, customers have no need to buy a separate box spring as the mattress can sit directly onto the frame that incorporates superb quality wooden slats with very little space in between each one, giving perfect support to hybrid, foam, latex, or spring mattresses.

Available in black this fits into a modern space perfectly. The thick frame brings a real sturdy feel and the lines are clean and sleek. The low platform frames are suited to people of all height although it would be sensible to realize that the low profile design may not be particularly suitable for those with mobility issues such as people who struggle with muscle or joint pain and difficulty sitting at a low position and standing up when climbing out of bed. as aches can be exaggerated by the amount of effort it can take to get into bed and getting to a standing position when climbing out of bed.

It is worth mentioning that there are weight limits to consider with each size as with all bed frames. With this model the weight range is 250 lbs (the smaller two sizes) and double that at 500 lbs for the larger sizes. The weight limit figures include the mattress as well as the weight of the user/s.

The Zinus Joseph slatted frame won't squeak with foam protective measures put in place so that the slats don't creak or slip.

Using an unassuming design this model is a contemporary choice that is popular with those looking for a cost effective option. This style is not compatible with a foot or headboard.

Learn more about Zinus Joseph 6 Inch Metal Platforma Bed Frame

Features to Consider With Platform Beds

Height

They look much sleeker than a traditional bed with a box spring. A platform bed frame allows you to place a mattress directly without having to buy a separate box spring. This type of bed frame is almost the most price-friendly option but is still sturdy whilst having storage space underneath.

Weight Limit

The weight limits will differ depending on the frame so it is worth looking at the individual platform bed frame and its design so that you know it can fit either as a permanent piece of furniture in your bedroom or as a foldable structure in a spare room. 

Style and Aesthetics

We all like a little bit of good design and style. It's worth looking at how sturdy and solid your new bed frame is. Some do come upholstered and some offer metal support with storage underneath, which helps if you want a low profile metal frame that you can sit a memory foam or luxurious mattress on top.

Most of the Unclutterer team enjoyed those that were easily put together and could accommodate a headboard as well as the mattress we liked to sleep on.

We think that the low profile construction as well as being made solid and sturdy make platform beds great.

Materials

We tested lots of bed frames that have not only storage space underneath yet have a frame that is easy to put together and made with high end and solid materials for good support and which make good frames for a variety of mattresses.

While solid wood is preferable to some, solid frames made with solid metal can offer the same support and don't absorb germs and moisture.

Each is sturdy, can enhance a modern bedroom vibe, and most can accommodate a headboard or footboard.

If you consider metal over those made of solid wood then it depends on preference.

Storage

All of the platform beds we have highlighted include modern frames with ample storage underneath.

A divan bed may be preferable if it includes storage underneath. Platform beds do offer space that is uncompromised if you want to have bed storage space underneath that isn't restricted to draws and fixed pull-outs.

Platform Bed in the white bedroom

Slats

Compared to a solid platform or foundation, slats offer a number of benefits.

They are breathable and work well to help with sleep whichever mattress you choose.

You can also get adjustable, or 'power beds' with slats because of the way they help with circulating heat, therefore they can work extremely well with those wanting a cooling and comfortable sleep.

Lifespan

A quality bed frame should last years, however the mattress that you use can mean the world of difference. Any platform bed whether it is a solid wood platform bed or a frame constructed with metal, can only withstand what it was built for. Usually for long term use and,some, for temporary usage.

That said, if you find you are sleeping less then it is probably your mattress that needs replacing.

Do bear in mind that visible wear and tear in your bed frame, whether it's a metal platform bed or a solid wood platform bed, may mean that it's time to change for a new and more durable option.

Noise

Platform beds make a wonderful base to sit your memory foam mattress or innerspring mattress on. If you are looking for a bed frame with the least noise then a solid wood platform bed frame might give you the least squeaks and straining noises but those made of solid metal can disturb you with equally as much sound.

If you have frantic sexy moments and want to enjoy bedtime without the deceit of a noisy bed that gives you away or disturbs private moments, or if you simply want to get into bed and love a peaceful moment before sleep, even a solid wood platform bed frame is going to either give you away or wake you up during the night when you most want your soundest sleep.

Slats might give a squeak if they're wooden. A solid wood platform may stand a better test of time. Metal always has joints that can become loose and noisy.

In any case, the quietest bed frame might mean you need to add your own spongey gaskets where the joins meet. At best, they'll come supplied with their own cushioning.

Ease of Setup

Compared to other types of beds and bed frames, a platform bed generally is easier to set up than others as there is little to get in the way like attaching headboards, footboards and side guards. 

As long as you have space in the bedroom, unboxing and reading through should make the best platform bed easy to put together. As long as your chosen platform bed frame comes with the right amount of tools needed, it shouldn't take much time and much effort.

Platform Bed FAQ

Q: Is sleeping on a platform bed comfortable?

A:

Typically your new platform bed sits on a sturdy steel frame with underneath storage space.

While an upholstered platform bed frame or wood bed foundation raises up your mattress, a basic platform bed will do the same - uplifting your mattress from the floor and giving you storage space underneath.

Comfort wise, the construction of a platform bed supports your mattress. Because of their closeness to the floor they are more stable and do provide a more sturdy and supportive sleeping surface.

Q: What sizes do platform beds come in?

A:

Depending on which supplier or manufacturer you choose, you will find there a selection of sizes and specifications.

From Twin to Cal King they range in width and length up to 84 inches.

We find that the typical platform bed frame ranges from twelve inches up to around 18 inches.

Q: Do I need a special mattress for a platform bed?

A:

A platform bed will not need a box spring nor a special type of mattress. Their design means that any mattress can be placed directly onto its solid frame. Full-foam mattresses, some hybrid mattresses, and those with coils can be used while remaining as comfortable as they would on a traditional bed frame.

Perhaps the most simplest difference is the height and that there is no requirement for a foundation or box spring.

Q: How thick should a mattress be for a platform bed?

A:

A thick mattress of around 12 inches and maybe 10 inches are most suitable for a platform bed frame. Because of their low profile design, users find the thicker their mattress is the easier it can be to climb into and out of bed with ease.

Q: Are platform beds too low?

A:

 This really is personal preference although most people choose a low-profile platform bed because they look modern. Their design also allows a smaller room to appear a little more spacious or open.

The average height will be around 18 inches and you can of course add height by choosing a thick mattress.

Related Reads

Best Mattresses For Platform Bed
Best Daybeds
Best Beds For Sexually Active People
logo
  • Home
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure
  • Reviews
DMCA.com Protection Status
  • 21781 Ventura Blvd PMB 32418 Woodland Hills, CA 91364
up