Best Metal Bed Frame

Metal bed frames are available in a wide variety of styles and price-points. Typically made of steel, or sometimes iron or brass, they are popular for their versatility, durability, and ease of care.

Shoppers can choose from minimalist designs or more sophisticated models with intricate headboards and footboards. Depending on the construction, a metal bed frame may or may not require a box spring or foundation, and the frame may also be designed to offer underbed storage space.

There are many factors to consider when shopping for a metal bed frame. We’ll provide information about how to choose a metal bed frame, and take a look at some of the best metal bed frames on the market today.

How to Choose a Bed Frame

Metal bed frames come in various designs to suit the diverse needs of different shoppers. The wide range of options may seem overwhelming at first. However, having basic knowledge about what’s important in a bed frame can help you identify the styles that best match your personal needs.

What to Look for in a Metal Bed Frame

As with any bedding product, shoppers should consider general qualities like materials, price, weight, design, and size. Bed frame shoppers may also need to consider qualities that are more specific to bed frames, such as ease of assembly, noise, frame type, and weight limit.

Quality Materials
Most modern metal bed frames are made primarily of steel, though more expensive models may have wrought iron detailing or brass components. When evaluating the quality of the materials used, look at the thickness of the frame, the craftsmanship, and the composition of the metal. Also, check to see if it has non-metal elements such as plastic, which may wear down more quickly.

Price
Metal bed frames vary in price from less than $100 to more than $1,000 depending on factors like construction, materials, and weight capacity. In general, metal bed frames are less expensive than solid wood bed frames, though frames with specialty designs or metals may cost a little more.

Design
Design elements to consider when shopping for a metal bed frame include the style, the color, and whether it has a headboard, footboard, or other elements such as posts. Metal bed frames run the full gamut of styles, from basic bed frames that are hardly visible underneath the mattress to models with intricate metalwork.

Weight
Many metal bed frames are relatively lightweight compared to their solid-wood counterparts, making them more portable and easier to set up. Despite not weighing very much, metal bed frames often have a high weight capacity. Still, shoppers should be sure to check the manufacturer’s website to ensure the frame can support the weight of a foundation or a box spring if needed, plus the mattress and sleepers.

Ease of Assembly
Most metal bed frames are designed to be assembled in a few steps. Some frames come with tools, while others simply require customers to open the box and unfold the frame. Consult the manufacturer’s website for information on assembly. If you’re interested, you may also inquire about expert in-home assembly, which is sometimes available for an additional charge.

Noise
When assembled correctly, metal bed frames are designed to be silent. However, as the joints loosen over time, sleepers may start to hear the bed frame squeak or creak. Tightening or oiling the bolts may help diminish these sounds so you can sleep more soundly.

Size
Be sure to choose the correct bed frame size for your mattress and foundation. Most bed frames are designed to match up with the standard mattress sizes, but the exact dimensions can sometimes vary by an inch or two. Some manufacturers offer metal bed frames that can be adjusted to fit different mattress sizes.

Type
From simple metal bases that require a box spring or foundation to ornate sleigh beds with a headboard and footboard, metal bed frames come in a multitude of different types. Shoppers can also find metal platform beds that have slats to support the mattress, or canopy beds with four posts and a canopy from which to hang curtains. While you’re not likely to find an all-metal design with drawers, it’s common for metal bed frames to leave plenty of room for underbed storage. These higher-profile beds may also be more convenient when getting in and out of bed.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Metal Bed Frames?

While there are always exceptions, many metal bed frames share some common advantages and drawbacks.

Pros

Cons

Durability: Metal tends to be durable and resist cracking or warping with humidity, which are common drawbacks of wooden frames. Ease of Assembly: Most metal bed frames are designed to be easy to put together, requiring few tools and not much of a time investment. Price: Shoppers can find metal bed frames for less than $100, which is lower than the cost of most wooden frames. Weight: Metal doesn’t have to be very heavy in order to support a lot of weight. This makes metal a strong choice for bed frames, which need to hold the mattress, foundation, and sleepers, yet still be light enough to move when necessary. Ease of Care: Fire-resistant, pest-resistant, and difficult to stain, metal bed frames are generally much easier to take care of than wooden bed frames. The exception is certain metals that are vulnerable to rust, which may be a deal breaker if you live in a humid climate. Convenience: Some metal bed frames are designed to fold, or include wheels for easier transportation and storage.

Design: Metal bed frames may have fewer style and color options than wood bed frames, making it more difficult to pair a metal bed frame with a room’s aesthetic. It’s also rare to see a metal bed frame with built-in drawers. Heat Retention: Metal bed frames are usually designed with plenty of room for airflow. However, metal conducts heat, which may be a problem in very warm climates. Noise: Although metal bed frames are designed to be silent, they are usually assembled with bolts and screws that may start to creak as they loosen. If noise potential is a concern, look for a welded bed frame that doesn’t rely on loose parts. May Require an Additional Foundation: Whereas wooden bed frames frequently have built-in slats to support the mattress, some metal bed frames require the addition of a box spring or foundation to complete the bed.

Dive Deeper: In-Depth Bed Frame Guides

Our team has tested hundreds of bed frame models. In addition to metal frames, you can visit the in-depth guides below to learn about other material and size options for beds.