Bed dimensions are an important factor to consider when buying a new bed frame. The frame should match the mattress size. A too-big frame will slide and may create large gaps between the bed frame and the mattress. A too-small frame may damage both the mattress and the frame. Also, the mattress won’t stay in place and may slide off the frame.
What is a Bed Frame?
A bed frame is made of wood or metal and includes side panels, a headboard, and footboard. Some bed frames may stand alone but come with attachments for a headboard or footboard.
Bed frames are designed to hold and support a mattress and mattress foundation. Raising the mattress off the floor creates more height, and may make it easier to climb in and out of bed.
Bed Frame Sizes
Bed frames are built to correlate with standard sizes, like a twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king. When choosing a new bed frame, take your mattress dimensions and add 2 to 5 extra inches to each side. This extra space is for the bed frame’s structure and any special features it might include, like drawers, upholstery, and shelves.
If you’re upgrading to a larger mattress and bed frame, measure your bedroom to make sure you have enough space. A cramped bedroom may cause stress and make it harder to fall asleep at night.
| Mattress Size | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| Twin | 38 inches by 75 inches |
| Twin XL | 38 inches by 80 inches |
| Full | 54 inches by 75 inches |
| Queen | 60 inches by 80 inches |
| King | 76 inches by 80 inches |
| California King | 72 inches by 84 inches |
Twin Size
Recommended Room Size: 8 feet by 10 feet
Twin bed frames are 38 inches by 75 inches. A twin frame is the next step from a crib or toddler bed. Twin size frames are meant for a child or single adults.
This size is an excellent option for limited living spaces, including studio or 1-bedroom apartments. Their compact size makes it easier to move.
For families with more than one child, bunk bed frames may be a better option. Bunk beds utilize living space and provide more play room.
Twin XL Size
Recommended Room Size: 8 feet by 10 feet
Twin XL bed frames are similar to a standard twin, except a twin XL frame is five inches longer at 38 inches by 80 inches. The extra length makes it a great option for tall sleepers. Its small size is also great for children and single adults and makes transportation easy.
Twin XL size frames are standard in college dorm rooms—the extra legroom accommodates any height.
Full Size
Recommended Room Size: 10 feet by 12 feet
A full size bed frame, or double bed, is a popular frame size among teens and single adults. Full bed frames provide 16 inches more width to stretch out at 54 inches by 75 inches. The extra room is also good for restless sleepers who tend to toss and turn each night.
Full bed frames are also a good starter bed for single adults striking out on their own for the first time. They have more sleeping space but can also fit small bedrooms or studio apartments.
Full size frames are too small for couples, but they’re an excellent option for a guest bedroom.
Queen Size
Recommended Room Size: 10 feet by 10 feet
Queen size bed frames measure 60 inches by 80 inches and are the most popular frame size for single adults. Queen mattresses provide extra space and luxury size for single sleepers.
They’re also a good fit for some couples. A queen frame costs less than a king or California king, but still presents 30 inches of personal space to each person.
Queen size bed frames are a nice addition to guest rooms too, accommodating up to two sleepers.
King Size
Recommended Room Size: 13 feet by 13 feet
King size bed frames are the common frame choice of most couples. King bed frames are 76 inches by 80 inches—over 38 inches of personal space. King size frames are also ideal for families if children tend to climb into bed with their parents at night.
Due to their large size, king frames are best for master bedrooms. Smaller bedrooms may feel too cramped, especially adding a king bed frame, which can take up to five extra inches more space on each side.
California King Size
Recommended Room Size: 13 feet by 13 feet
California king size bed frames, or western kings, were first created in Los Angeles, California in the early 1960s. Cal king frames were considered a luxurious upgrade from a king size.
At 72 inches by 84 inches, California king bed frames are longer and narrower than a standard king. Couples can appreciate the 36 inches of personal space, plus the extra length is perfect for tall couples. California king size frames are a great fit for large master bedrooms.
Types of Bed Frames
There are several types of bed frames to choose from, but the most popular include panel, platform, bunk beds, sleigh, and four poster frames. The right size bed frame should be based on personal preference, but also keep in mind cost and weight. If you frequently move from place to place, a heavy frame like a four poster or sleigh bed may not be the best choice.
Panel
Panel bed frames are built to hold and support both a mattress and mattress foundation. The surface contains wood slats to increase breathability, side panels, and a wood or metal headboard.
Platform
Platform beds are designed to hold and support a mattress without a mattress foundation. Platform beds have flexible wood slats spaced 2-2.75 inches apart to support most mattress types, including memory foam beds.
Platform bed frames have a minimalistic look, but they may include attachments for a headboard or footboard.
Another variant of the platform frame is the captain bed. Captain beds have built-in drawers along the bottom sides of the frame to save space. These types of frames are popular additions to children’s rooms.
Bunk Beds
Bunk beds consist of a bed frame stacked on top of the other. Bunk beds may contain up to three beds occupying the same space. A bunk bed is supported by four pillars. It has an upper bunk anda built-in side rail. This prevents a person from falling off the bed.
Most bunk beds fit a twin or twin XL size mattress, but some may accommodate full size beds.
Another version of the bunk bed is the loft bed.It’s similar to a bunk bed, except it might include a desk or small couch below the suspended bed.
Sleigh
Sleigh bed frames give a fancy, majestic look. Sleigh beds are usually made of solid wood, making them heavier and more difficult to move than other types of bed frames; some may also include upholstery.
Sleigh beds have curved or scrolled headboards and footboards, creating their “sled-like” appearance. Modern models have less exaggerated curves. Sleigh beds are a nice addition to any master bedroom and make an excellent statement piece.
Four Poster
Four poster bed frames have four tall columns that reach towards the ceiling. Traditionally, older models were topped by a large rectangular panel, parallel to the mattress, and included thick curtains to drape around the bed. These curtains were not just decorative, but practical—nobility used them for privacy from servants and to stay warm from drafty air.
Many modern four poster frames don’t include a rectangular panel at the top or thick curtains, but they may come with a canopy attachment. You can attach thick or transparent fabric and drape it around the bed to block light or as decoration.
Bed Frame Materials
Bed frames are usually made of either wood or metal. Both materials are supportive and long-lasting. Some models may include upholstered headboards and footboards for contemporary appeal.
Wood
Wood is one of the most popular materials for bed frames. Wood frames have a classic appearance and provide solid, stable support. Some may be heavy or difficult to lift, depending on the type of wood and frame structure.
Some wood frames are made of particleboard—pieces of recycled wood are glued and pressed together to form solid boards. Particleboard is covered in vinyl to mimic natural wood grain. While it may not be as strong or as durable as solid wood, particleboardbed frames are supportive and less expensive.
Metal
Metal is another popular frame material. Metal frames are supportive, durable, and less expensive than wood, though it may not be as sturdy. You can easily paint a metal frame if you want to change up your bedroom decor.
Other Bedding Accessories to Consider
When buying a new bed frame, keep in mind if you have a mattress foundation or if you’re looking into adding an adjustable base. Both may influence what type of bed frame you choose. For instance, a platform bed offers plenty of support to a mattress and doesn’t need a box spring.
Mattress Foundation
A mattress foundation is a bed base witha wood frame and either wood slats or innerspring coils on the surface. Mattress foundations support the mattress and raise it off the ground.
An example of a mattress foundation is a box spring. Box springs have a wood frame filled with innerspring coils and covered in breathable material. The innerspring coils support the mattress and act as shock absorbers.
Adjustable Base
Before buying a bed frame, you may want to consider an adjustable base. Adjustable beds are electronic bases that elevate the upper and lower body and can stand alone or fit inside a bed frame.
An adjustable base is an excellent choice if you have a split mattress, like a king or Cal king. It provides customized comfort and support without disturbing your sleep partner. Adjustable beds may also come with special features, including full-body massage, under-bed lighting, and USB charge ports.
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FAQs
What is the standard bed frame height?
The standard bed frame height ranges between 8 inches to 18 inches. Height depends on the brand, frame type, and if the frame comes with removable legs. Raising the mattress off the floor may reduce exposure to more dust and can also provide under-bed storage.
Should the bed frame be bigger than the mattress?
The bed frame should be the same size as your mattress. For instance, a queen size bed should rest on a queen size frame. Buying a bed frame a size larger than your mattress creates gaps and may cause the mattress to slide. On the other hand, purchasing a bed frame a size smaller than your mattress won’t keep the mattress in place and may cause damage to both the bed and the frame.
Can a twin bed fit two adults?
Two adults might be able to squeeze onto a twin bed without falling off, but it won’t feel comfortable. Each sleeper will have about 18 inches of sleeping space—for some that’s enough room to lie on their side, but not much else. We don’t recommend anything smaller than a queen size mattress for couples.
Can a king bed fit in a 12 x 12 room?
A room that’s at least 12 feet by 12 feet is okay for a standard king mattress. The room’s dimensions should still leave plenty of space for other bedroom furniture such as dressers, nightstands, lamps, and shelves. You’ll also want to leave some floor space clear, so you can walk around the room.
Is a double and full the same size?
Yes, a double bed is another name for a full size mattress. Despite the name, we can only recommend a double bed for single sleepers. Couples who try to share the mattress will have about 27 inches of sleeping space, which is about equal to the width of a crib size mattress.
Conclusion
Bed frames are a great addition to your bedroom. They raise your mattress off the floor and provide a stylish look to the room. Be sure to choose a bed frame that matches your current or new mattress size for optimal support and comfort.
