5 Best Platform Beds To Change Up Your Bedroom Style
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
1. ZINUS SmartBase Metal Platform Bed Frame
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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