Choosing a bed frame involves more than picking a style. The type of frame you choose affects whether you need a box spring, how much under-bed storage you have access to, and whether your mattress will be properly supported. This guide covers the main bed frame types, what distinguishes them, and how to decide which suits your bedroom and your needs.
The main bed frame types
Platform beds
A platform bed has a flat, solid or slatted base that supports a mattress directly. It does not require a box spring. The low-profile design sits closer to the floor than traditional frames, which gives the room a more open, contemporary feel and is practical in rooms with lower ceilings.
Platform beds are among the most versatile options available. They work with most modern mattress types, including foam, hybrid, and pocket coil, provided the base meets basic support requirements. For slatted platform beds, slat gaps should be no wider than 3 inches and slats at least 2 inches wide to ensure even mattress support. A solid platform surface bypasses this consideration entirely.
The absence of a box spring requirement also reduces the overall cost of the bed setup and lowers the total height of the sleeping surface, which some people prefer.
Storage beds
A storage bed is a platform bed with integrated drawer units built into the base. Instead of wasted space beneath the mattress, you get accessible drawer storage, typically two to four drawers depending on the bed size.
For smaller bedrooms, this is a practical trade-off: storage that would otherwise require a separate dresser or wardrobe is built into the furniture you already need. It is particularly useful in apartments or secondary bedrooms where floor space is limited. For more ideas on maximising space in a smaller room, the small bedroom storage guide covers this in more detail.
Panel beds
A panel bed is defined by its headboard and footboard construction, typically with raised rectangular panels. It is a more traditional frame style than a platform bed and usually sits higher off the floor, often requiring a box spring or foundation to reach the intended height.
Panel beds work well in larger, more traditionally furnished bedrooms. The taller profile and more formal aesthetic suits rooms where the bed is a dominant visual element. They are generally less practical in compact spaces because the higher base and footboard reduce the visual openness of the room.
Bed frames without a headboard
Some buyers opt for a simple metal or wooden bed frame without a headboard or footboard. These frames are typically the most affordable option and suit minimal room setups. They are easier to move, fit into more spaces, and can be paired with a wall-mounted headboard if you want one later.
Platform bed vs box spring: what you need to know
Box springs were designed to work with traditional innerspring mattresses, adding height and some additional flex to the sleeping surface. Most modern mattresses, particularly foam and hybrid constructions, do not require or benefit from a box spring.
A platform bed replaces the box spring with a solid or slatted base. This is compatible with the majority of contemporary mattresses and removes the cost and bulk of a separate foundation. If you are pairing a bed frame with a Cozey mattress, compatible bases include solid platform beds, slatted bases with gaps no wider than 3 inches, and non-flexing box foundations. Wire grid or coiled box springs are not compatible. Queen and king sizes require at least one centre support beam on the base.
How to choose the right size
Bed frames are sized to match standard mattress dimensions. In Canada, the standard sizes are Twin, Double (Full), Queen, King, and California King. A few practical points:
- Room clearance: Leave at least 24 inches of clearance on either side of the bed for comfortable access. A 36-inch walkway on at least one side is preferable.
- Storage bed sizing: Larger storage beds offer more drawer capacity but require more clear floor space beside the bed for drawers to open fully.
- Headboard height: In rooms with lower ceilings or wall art above the bed, check the headboard height before ordering.
Assembly guides for Cozey bedroom furniture are available here.