19 Best Bed Frames of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

By Kristi Kellogg

Produced by Katarina Kovac

Illustration by Lizzie Soufleris

Creating the ideal bedtime setup is a matter of finding quality sheets, a nice pillow, and the perfect type of mattress for you. And only the best bed frames can pull it all together, of course. A bed frame has to do double duty as a statement piece of furniture and a durable, sturdy base that supports you night after night—and all the bed frames on this list check both boxes.

Ahead, discover the very best bed frames with in-depth reviews from our editors, including the very important delivery and assembly details. (Curious about alternative types of bed frames? Browse our DIY bed frame guide.)

Prices reflect queen-size beds. However, most of them are available in additional sizes.

All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Castlery Emery Bed

Castlery

Material: Solid acacia wood

Name and job title: Rachel Davies, associate digital design editor

What attracted you to this bed frame? I really like a wood bed frame—it feels sturdy and I love a more natural vibe in the bedroom. I appreciated the high headboard and the fluted design which adds some texture to the wall that could otherwise feel a bit static.

What was the delivery and assembly like? The instructions were very clear! While I had a friend helping me, it was possible to do a lot of the assembly myself, which is always a plus to me.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? Definitely—I love that you can tell it’s actually wood and I love the dimension that the slats add.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? I would rate it a 9. I really like that the headboard came in one piece so I know that it’s solidly constructed. I don’t have any issues at all with the sturdiness of it at this point. I appreciate that the construction of the slats makes it impossible for them to move around under the mattress (a problem I’ve encountered before with other bed frames).

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? Yes! I think if you live in an apartment building and want a wood bed frame that won’t be impossible to move into your space (in the way that, say, an antique wood bed frame might be) this is a great pick. I also think that the slats make a great “statement piece” in a small bedroom that might not have room for much else decoration-wise. It seems like it would also be pretty simple to disassemble and move to a new apartment without damaging the frame or ending up with something wonky the second time you go to build it.

Article Uden Bed Frame

Article

Material: This bed frame is made out of American white oak, rubberwood, beech, a little plywood, and a polyester blend for the bed frame’s softer parts.

Name and job title: Erika Veurink, contributor

What attracted you to this bed frame? I’ve always been drawn to the comfort of a bed frame with a cushioned headboard. It mitigates my usual pillow stacking to read before bed. I wanted a design where the same comfort the headboard offered ensconced the entire bed, so it didn’t look like a one-off on the part of the design. I love the neutral color of the bed frame, which compliments whatever colorful bed-scape I’ve thought up.

What was the delivery and assembly like? Delivery was very hands-on, in a good way. I received updates from the minute the order was placed, and even a check in after it was successfully delivered. Assembly took right around the hour I expected, thanks to the detailed instructions. As I assembled with my husband, we were both pleasantly surprised at how quickly the time went by.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? If you read other reviews on Article’s website, you’ll note an overwhelming sentiment that the bed is less cream than photographed. The actual color of the bed frame worked for the room I placed it in, but I have to side with the reviewers. The color was a warm gray, soft and easy to match with, but not white. Once assembled, I couldn’t get over how much I adored the subtle curve of the piece. Leaning against the headboard is like being ensconced, in the best way possible.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? I was impressed by the quality of the bed frame, especially during assembly. It felt like one of my more expensive pieces for half the price.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? Yes! As long as you have some flexibility on color, this is a great bed frame. Plus, the detailed and high-touch delivery process is a welcome addition to what can definitely be a more high-stress process.

Crate & Barrel Anneli Ivory Upholstered Queen Bed

Crate & Barrel

Reviewer: Jordan Goldberg, contributor

Material: 79% polyester, 13% rayon, and 8% linen upholstery, FSC®-certified pine and engineered wood frame, polyfoam fill.

What attracted you to this bed frame? I was most attracted to the balanced feel of the Anneli frame’s design. It comes in a subdued ivory shade and has an easy-on-the-eyes structure that makes it seamlessly blend in with my minimalist aesthetic. The oversized design, on the other hand, makes a statement—you can’t miss this bed—while remaining restrained and not too overpowering. It’s also made with a polyester, rayon, and linen blend, which I felt ensured the durability and longevity of the investment piece.

What was the delivery and assembly like? The delivery and assembly process was simple and didn’t require much on my end. I provided my building information and Crate & Barrel did the rest—including sending over a certification of insurance to provide my building with! Two movers brought the bed straight into my bedroom, assembled it quickly, and removed all the garbage. They also helped me adjust the rug to ensure that the bed was centered in the space. The entire process took 20 minutes max!

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? So far, yes! The size is just right in my space as I’m still able to fit a nightstand on each side (a win in an NYC apartment). The best and most surprising element is the amount of support the bed frame provides. My mattress feels like new as the panels holding it up keep the bed firm to support my back. The texture of the bed is soft-to-the-touch but definitely feels like it will stay intact for years to come. As visitors have come to see my new space, the bed frame has been one of the most frequently complimented pieces.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? 10. This is one of the most solid bed frames I’ve ever had. I believe it’s because the base of the bed is on the ground. The headboard is tightly secured as well so there’s no movement when getting into bed.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? Yes, it’s an investment piece I know I’ll love for years to come. The simple colorway and timeless structure make it a frame that can blend in with any interior design style and will evolve with me as my personal style changes.

Casper Repose Bed Frame

Casper

Material: Sustainably sourced solid oak, plywood and oak veneer headboard, 100% polyester pillow headboard

Bed frame reviewer: Zoë Sessums, digital design editor

What attracted you to this bed frame? I was staying with some family during the fall, and it wasn’t long before I could not stand sleeping on an ancient, squeaky metal bed frame. Because I had enjoyed a Casper memory foam mattress in the past and because the brand had just launched these new bed frames, I decided to try them out. I figured the nice, neutral frame would be a perfect gift for my hosts once I left too.

What was the delivery and assembly like? A pair of incredibly nice delivery guys dropped off the boxes exactly where I requested them. They were not light, so I needed help bringing the boxes into my room. Assembly was very easy—I had the bed frame set up within an hour.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? I chose the natural oak frame with the wood headboard, and I thought it was great! It’s very neutral and would fit in so many different bedroom spaces. I like the optional headboard—I slept on the bed with and without it and found it to be lovely either way. For a sleek, affordable option, I’d say this lived up to my expectations.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? 9. My 4-year-old niece challenged me to several wrestling matches on the bed, and it held up to our somersaults and friendly bodyslams. I also moved the frame once it was assembled up a flight of stairs into a new room, and it stayed sturdy and comfortable.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? For sure. Casper is reliable for quick delivery, comfortable mattresses, and solid construction, so I would offer this as a suggestion to any friend looking for a sleek, natural bed frame that won’t break the bank.

Birch Natural Wood Frame

Birch Living

Material: FSC-certified wood (the components are made from Appalachian hardwood, Southern yellow pine, and Appalachian maple)

Bed frame reviewer: Rachel Fletcher, senior commerce editor

What attracted you to this bed frame? The sustainable elements were very appealing to me, as was the fact that it was a tool-free assembly. Plus, I really liked the look of the frame: It’s utilitarian, streamlined, and super solid—I didn’t want anything delicate or wobbly-looking. It also comes in white wood.

What was the delivery and assembly like? Okay, I will say this: Delivery was kind of a nightmare, but that was no fault of the brand! The frame comes in a really long and heavy box, and it was left at the bottom of my stoop. I live in a fourth-floor walk-up, so this was a challenge for me. I ended up disassembling it outside and carrying it up piece by piece, which wasn’t so bad. Assembly was truly one of the easiest things I’ve ever done. The pieces fit together easily, the instructions were super clear, and I was kind of amazed as to how quickly it all came together.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? Yes! Like I said, super easy to assemble, as promised, and it looks exactly as it does in the pictures.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? 10.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? 100%

The Bed Frame by Floyd

Floyd

Material: TSCA Title VI-certified birch veneer and birch plywood, powder-coated steel supports, nylon ratchet straps

Bed frame reviewer: Zoë Sessums, digital design editor

What attracted you to this bed frame? Instagram piqued my interest in this adjustable bed frame with a low-profile design. I was intrigued by the construction, the modular capabilities, and movability. I loved the idea that down the line I could transform the queen-sized bed frame to instead fit a king-size or twin mattress sizes, add a headboard, or add a storage drawer. And putting together a bed frame without needing tools sounded good to me!

What was the delivery and assembly like? This bed frame was delivered to the ground floor of my fourth-floor walk-up. And boy howdy, did I feel like I was going to die trying to get it up all the flights of stairs—and that was with the help of a very strong person! In hindsight, I would take each piece out of its box before attempting to move. Assembly was more challenging than I anticipated (or more challenging than it looked on IG), and it helps to be limber and have room around the frame, but now after assembling the bed a handful of times, I’d say it gets easier.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? I wanted to hate the Floyd frame because sometimes I feel that way about ultra-popular furniture, but I have to say I love this frame more than I thought I would. It’s wonderful! I enjoy the height, the modular element, and the way it looks in my room. Floyd, you win, this bed frame exceeded my expectations.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? 8. The bed is sturdy and heavy-duty, and I am confident about diving into it, but I don’t trust it to stand up to everything.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? 100%. This is an ideal bed frame for a streamlined space, for constant moving, for a changing life. I think it’s worth the price.

West Elm Simple Bed Frame

West Elm

Material: Solid and engineered wood with wood slats for a sturdy foundation

Bed frame reviewer: Katie Henwood, senior SEO manager

What attracted you to this bed frame? When I moved into a small apartment in the West Village with my partner last summer, I knew we’d have to get creative with our storage solutions. We wanted a tall frame that could fit boxes and oversized items underneath, but still matched our minimal midcentury style. Enter the tall version of this simple bed frame.

What was the delivery and assembly like? The frame was delivered quickly and in two separate boxes, neither of which were super heavy. We were lucky, since we had to carry them up five flights of stairs. The assembly was a breeze: The instructions were simple, and everything you need is included except a screwdriver. Oh, and there were no tears, which can’t be said for every piece of furniture I’ve assembled in the past. I count that as a win.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? Not only does this frame hide everything that won’t fit anywhere else, it looks good and is comfortable at the same time. To avoid clutter collecting under the bed, we ordered three of these under-bed storage bags to hold our extra bedding, coats, and shoes. Even with all that, there’s still room for a snowboard (in a travel case!). We call it the Mary Poppins bag of bed frames—everything just seems to fit.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? I’d give this frame a 7. In the year we’ve had it, we’ve had to tighten a few screws once or twice, which takes about 30 seconds, but otherwise haven’t had any issues.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? Anyone looking to create more space in their small apartment, this is the bed frame for you. It’s not bulky like some bed frames that come with storage built in, and is simple enough to take with you wherever you go in the future. Hopefully the next place will have more closets!

By Zoë Sessums

By Sara Barragán del Rey

By Audrey Lee

Zinus Linda Wood Platform Bed Frame

Zinus

Material: Wood

Bed frame reviewer: Rachel Fletcher, senior commerce editor

What attracted you to this bed frame? I loved the look of the Linda immediately—it gave me Scandi vibes and felt like it’d be a great neutral piece. It also looked way more expensive than the less-than-$450 price tag, which I saw a few of the reviewers mentioned in the comments.

What was the delivery and assembly like? The bed frame arrived flat packed—the box was heavy and a bit unwieldy—but I attribute this to the fact that the frame really is made with high quality wood and it didn’t take too much cajoling to get it inside. I won’t say that assembly was the easiest thing I ever did—I worked on it together with my dad and, after a few missteps and getting used to the Zinus assembly system (more on that in a bit), it took the better part of an afternoon. Zinus does not offer any on-site assembly or white glove options (that $350 price tag has its limits after all!) and claims that set up should take an hour but that definitely was not the case for us.

There were quite a few pieces inside the box, but the instructions were pretty easy to follow (again, after a couple of false starts) and each part was labelled and numbered in a pretty logical manner (piece two connects to piece three and so on). Zinus also provides all the tools, nuts, and bolts you need to assemble, which makes things much easier.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? If anything, the frame exceeded my expectations. It looks great and is sturdy as a rock.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? 10. The bed is made of solid wood and has a metal interior frame. The pieces all fit together with ease once we figured out how to put them together, and the way Zinus designs everything to fit into place is pretty ingenious—it felt sort of like an old school Lincoln Log build-out—and there weren’t any squeaky or wobbly bits to deal with.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? Definitely. For the price, I truly don’t think the quality can be beat. And the style of the Linda is pretty agnostic—it’s a little midcentury, a little Scandinavian—so much so that I can imagine it fitting into a host of home decor aesthetics, from a cozy cabin to something more minimalist or beachy or boho! With the Linda, the decor world is your oyster.

Pottery Barn Farmhouse Bed

Pottery Barn

Material: Kiln-dried solid wood and veneers

Bed frame reviewer: Nick Mafi, features editor

What attracted you to this bed frame? Aesthetically, it looks like something you’d see in a country home—I love that about this frame. Immediately it had the feeling of something cozy and soft, which are exactly the types of feelings you want in your bedroom. But once I laid on it, I realized it’s also very sturdy, and that’s perhaps the most important part of any bed frame.

What was the delivery and assembly like? Delivery and assembly was extremely seamless. I worked with Pottery Barn to get it set up, and they gave me updates on the exact delivery date and time. I had the white glove service, so a team showed up to my apartment and set up my frame in the bedroom. All in, it took roughly an hour to get the bed into the building, up the elevator, and to assemble it in my bedroom. I simply gave them instructions on where I would like the frame to be, and they took it from there by unboxing, and setting up the frame. They also cleaned up the debris that fell from the packaging. Had I tried to do this myself, it would’ve taken me double the time. I think if I were to move from my current apartment, I would ask a team of movers to take the bed frame too, as I wouldn’t be able to get it out of my apartment. It would simply be too heavy and awkward to fit through the doors and into the hallway. In these instances, it’s best to know one’s limitations.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? Yes, absolutely. It’s the perfect blend of sturdy but still soft. What’s more, I love how this wood bed frame does not require a box spring. That’s just one less step I needed to take in completing my bedroom interior design. I also really appreciate how the bed frame was screened for over 10,000 harmful chemicals that can be found in designs from other retailers.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? I would say the sturdiness is a 9. And in fact, I wouldn’t necessarily want a 10. There is something about having a bed frame that gives just a little bit, so you still feel it’s a piece of furniture.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? I would definitely recommend this bed frame to a friend. I’m often asked this question, and I have recommended the best-selling Farmhouse Frame from Pottery Barn on many occasions. It wasn’t cheap, but like most pieces of furniture that expensive, it is built to last. The design of the frame is important in that, even five or so years from now, it won’t scream dated. I think that this frame is good for sleepers who don’t mind spending a bit more money on a piece of furniture that doesn’t have the flare that other, more expensive pieces might. More importantly, it’s something that we lay on each night, making it perfect for the customer who doesn’t care that people won’t know what they paid for it (unlike, say, an Eames chair), but wants to take care of their body by sleeping on a solidly-built bed frame.

The Bed by Thuma

Thuma

Material: Handcrafted, repurposed wood bed frame, 100% polyester pebbled linen-weave PillowBoard, recycled plastic slats

Bed frame reviewer: Zoë Sessums, digital design editor

What attracted you to this bed frame? I love any furniture that doesn’t require tools for assembly. I can handle a complex design and assembly, but I appreciate the thoughtfulness that also goes along with some considered joinery. I was excited to see exactly how this solid wood and upholstered bed frame comes together and to see how it holds up.

What was the delivery and assembly like? Delivery was easy and straightforward. I could lift each piece myself—always a bonus—and it came with a minimal amount of packaging. I began the assembly process myself, but asked for help/company halfway through because I didn’t want to scratch my wood flooring. The instructions were simple, and I was able to put the bed together in less than an hour. It was a lot like using giant Lincoln Logs—you just stack and join the pieces in a certain order and voilà! You’ve got yourself a bed frame.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? I was very pleased with the easy assembly and the heft of the frame. The Japanese craftsman technique was true to the promise of having a quiet, easy-to-put-together setup. My only bits of criticism had to do with the aesthetic quality of the wood (it has a faux-wood look, in my opinion, despite the material, and the brown just wasn’t my favorite) and the challenge of moving the bed frame (if you try to scoot it over yourself, there’s a chance one of the legs will tip over, which happened to me a couple of times).

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? 9. Very sturdy! I jumped on it, I lunged on it, and it held up well. I only knock it a point for the lack of sturdiness when attempting to move it.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? I think this is a really great option out there for a simple, modular bed frame that is made from sustainable materials and that will hold up over time (a perfect choice for someone who moves regularly). It’s also nice that the PillowBoard is optional, so you can change the look of your bed setup regularly.

Editor’s Note: This bed was also one of the most popular products among Clever readers in 2021.

By Zoë Sessums

By Sara Barragán del Rey

By Audrey Lee

Burrow Circa Bed

Burrow

Material: Hardwood frame, fabric upholstered headboard

Bed frame reviewer: MacKenzie Chung Fegan, contributing writer

What attracted you to this bed frame? I’ve traditionally been Team Headboard, but when I moved in with my now-spouse three years ago, I made peace with her minimalist, metal frame platform bed. But after years of wear, our bed was giving out, creaking and wobbling and damaging our hardwood floor with an overtaxed center post. In contrast, Burrow’s Circa frame looked sturdy and solid—and I was eager to have a headboard back in my life.

What was the delivery and assembly like? Things got off to a rocky start! My bed frame arrived in three boxes—the headboard in one, the frame itself split between the other two—each over 50 pounds. I unboxed the pieces on the ground floor and was able to carry each piece individually up two flights of stairs without much of a problem. The top, bottom, and side rails of the bed fit together by inserting a tooth on one piece into a slot on the other (I am not a carpenter, can you tell?), but when I started assembling the frame, it became clear that I had been sent an incorrect part. One side rail had teeth where the slots should be and slots where the teeth could be, making it impossible to attach to the top and bottom pieces.

I emailed Burrow customer service on a Saturday evening, heard back on Tuesday, and my replacement part arrived by Friday. Once I had all the correct pieces, it was a cinch to assemble—that Japanese-inspired joinery locks right into place. It could conceivably be a one-person job if not for the fact that you have to flip the entire frame over, which definitely required spousal assistance. As someone apt to lose that little IKEA hex wrench, I appreciated that assembly required no tools, with the exception of one screw which I tightened with a quarter. The whole thing took about 15 minutes.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? It was just as advertised. I ordered the oak frame with a headboard in Papyrus, a light taupe color with a subtle sheen. The frame feels sturdy and stable—no more creaking—and elevates my mattress slightly higher (24") off the ground than my previous frame. Overall, the minimalist design and solid wood construction makes me feel like I finally have an adult bed.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? I would give it an 8/10 in terms of sturdiness. It’s my first frame made of solid wood, and certainly compared to a metal or particle board it feels stable, like a bed of substance. Because of the interlocking joinery, there are no screws that might loosen over time (aside from one that holds the center post in place) and have to bear the weight of two sleeping humans plus sometimes a dog.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? I would recommend it, but with some reservations. One of the side pieces did arrive with a noticeable ding on one corner. This isn’t a Burrow-specific problem, however—when ordering any piece of bulky furniture online, you run the risk of it being damaged in transit, and judging from my customer service experience, I’m sure Burrow would quickly send a replacement.

I think most will be pleased with the purchase. The bed isn’t flashy. The headboard colorways are all muted tones, and there are no extraneous flourishes to the frame. A statement piece it is not. It’s ideal for those who want their bed to do its damn job, but otherwise kind of blend into the background and not fight for attention with their high-quality patterned sheets.

Tuft & Needle Wood Bed Frame

Tuft & Needle

Material: WalnutBed frame reviewer: Nora Taylor, contributing writerWhat attracted you to this bed frame? It looks really sturdy but also gorgeous. It looks like no matter how bad of a job I may do putting it together, it could hang in there.What was the delivery and assembly like? Delivery was great, the very nice delivery folks carried it to my front door, which was great. Honestly, the hardest part was unboxing everything and throwing away the wrapping plastic, which I don’t love. Assembly was easy. It came with all the tools, and I needed a buddy but only to hold things, so it went by quickly.Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? It is sturdy! And lovely. I have a deep mattress and a lot of pillows, so I don’t see that much of the headboard, but all in all, it is a very nice addition to my bedroom. Also, my room is very small and even with it being a darker wood it doesn’t feel like it totally swallows the space.What would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? 10, no complaints.Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? Yes? Bed frames feel really personal, but if someone is looking for a good, sturdy, classic frame, this one fits the bill.

West Elm Midcentury Bed

West Elm

Material: Kiln-dried solid and engineered wood and solid pine slats

Bed frame reviewer: Madeleine Luckel, design editor

What attracted you to this bed frame? The main reason was that it had a headboard, and its narrow dimensions meant it still fit in my New York City bedroom. Midcentury modernism isn’t always my favorite style, but I liked the clean and elegant lines of this piece. I also thought the tone of the wood had a nice warm glow to it.

What was the delivery and assembly like? I arranged for assembly from West Elm in addition to delivery, but it was tricky to get it to arrive. It was a few years ago at this point, but the delivery person did not show up for the scheduled time slot twice. The third try everything worked out, but it was a hassle to repeatedly coordinate being home from work in order to accept it. (This was, of course, back in the pre-work from home era!)

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? Yes, but I think my expectations were pretty much just that the bed frame have a headboard and fit in my room. (It has continued to fit in every room I’ve lived in since, FYI!) I will say that I was more into its appearance at the time I ordered it than I am now.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? I would probably give it a 6 or a 7. At one point when I moved, and it was disassembled and rebuilt by my (very good) movers, it ended up with a constant squeak. The next time I moved I asked them to screw it together extra tightly, and the problem was solved, but it was an issue for a couple of years and seemed like something that could happen to other customers.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? Yes, if it fit the parameters of what they were looking for. It’s fairly low to the ground, so some things that I would like to store underneath it (such as my standard-size Away suitcase) don’t fit. If the friend lived in New York or another city apartment, I’d be sure to note that.

By Zoë Sessums

By Sara Barragán del Rey

By Audrey Lee

Ikea Tarva

Ikea

Material: Solid pine

Bed frame reviewer: Elaheh Nozari, contributing writer

What attracted you to this bed frame? I upgraded from a studio with a full-size bed (where the bed frame was the IKEA Malm) to a one-bedroom apartment with a queen bed. The only problem was that my new bedroom was a bit too snug to fit any old queen-size bed frame. I spent hours researching bed frames that wouldn’t overtake the room—the best bed frame, in my eyes, didn’t jut out too much (the room also has two dressers, Tarva as well) and allowed for enough of a walkway on each side so my partner and I didn’t have to climb over each other to get into bed. I desperately wanted the Floyd, but it was too wide, as was my beloved Malm. The Tarva was really the most simple option that fit the bill, and it was a no-brainer at less than $200.

What was the delivery and assembly like? Great! The IKEA delivery people brought it up two flights of stairs, and the assembly was one of the easier IKEA furniture ones I’ve done in recent history.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? Yes, the size is so perfect that it makes me forget that my room is so small. With our two dressers in the same bare wood finish, our room looks straight out of a Scandinavian hotel.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? I give it a 7. It’s pretty easy to move around when vacuuming, which is a plus for me, but also suggests it’s not the sturdiest bed frame out there.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? Yes, this is a great budget option for a small space! It’s also great if you have a knack for DIY—I’ve seen a few crafty hacks on Pinterest where people have either painted the bed frame or added upholstery to the headboard themselves.

Zinus Shawn 14-inch SmartBase Mattress Foundation

Amazon

Material: Steel

Bed frame reviewer: Zoë Sessums, digital design editor

What attracted you to this bed frame? This bed frame has nearly 80,000 ratings, 4.7 stars on Amazon, and costs less than $100. Color me intrigued! A couple of years ago I moved into a new apartment and slept on the floor for longer than I should have. I couldn’t seem to decide on a nice, high-quality bed frame (and couldn’t yet bring myself to spend good money on myself), so I went with the quick and cheap option.

What was the delivery and assembly like? Easy and simple. It arrived at my front door in a fairly heavy but still manageable box. I appreciate that there wasn’t an overwhelming and earth-damaging amount of packaging to deal with. I pulled out the two frame pieces and the pack of wing nuts, and had the whole thing set up in less than 10 minutes.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? The bed frame isn’t incredibly attractive, but it’s easy to move around, is high enough to give you ample storage space, and can be hidden with any kind of long blanket or bed skirt. It didn’t squeak, it didn’t creak, and the mattress stayed exactly where I put it—there are these sticky strips included with the package (essentially giant pieces of nonstick tape) that ensure your mattress won’t slide around, but so far I haven’t needed them. So, all things considered, it’s a worthy bed frame!

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? 7. It’s hard to say how long this will hold up, but it’s a solid piece of furniture.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? Considering the price, the ease, and the comfort, I would recommend this bed frame to anyone needing one ASAP. It would be a great option to store in a closet for guests, or if you’re staying somewhere temporarily and want a bed frame without committing to an investment piece.

Sundays Lean On Me Bed

Sundays

Material: Solid pine and MDF frame, PU foam, linen and polyester stain-resistant fabric blend

Bed frame reviewer: Lila Allen, AD PRO editor

What attracted you to this bed frame? I’ve slept on secondhand (translation: Old-as-the-hills) four-poster beds my entire life. Creaky, shaky, possibly haunted. This bed is the complete opposite—it’s low to the ground, upholstered, and has a grown-up, sophisticated feel. I’d always hesitated at low beds before, because I live in New York and need all of the under-bed storage I can get. Fortunately, this one has just enough space that I can slide under a few bins of sweaters and craft supplies. Easy breezy.

What was the delivery and assembly like? Mercifully, this bed came with white-glove delivery, so aside from clearing out my space and finding a new home for my no-longer-needed boxspring, I didn’t have to lift a finger. The bed arrived in three boxes, all of which fit into the freight elevator of my building in one trip. I did need to get a certificate of insurance for the delivery (gotta stay in the good graces of the co-op board), but that was easy. The movers unpacked the boxes in my hallway, then brought the components into my bedroom and assembled the bed in under 30 minutes. The packaging fairies (read: Delivery service) then hauled away all of the boxes so I didn’t have to. I hopefully won’t need to disassemble the bed anytime soon, but when I do, a standard Allen key can be used to take the headboard, side, and end rails apart for easy transport. Wood slats can either be left in place during a move, or taken out entirely.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? The bed is super comfortable, easy to make in the mornings, and I love how the upholstered design softens the room visually and acoustically. The upholstery is of nice quality, too—no snags or sagging, at least at this point—and there’s some subtle variation in the coloring that adds a bit of depth (my bed features the Stone fabric, but bouclé is also available).

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? The base is super solid, so 10. There is a tiny bit of wobble on the headboard, so I’d give that a 9.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? Yes, absolutely. The price point is higher than more spartan, un-upholstered models from other manufacturers, so for a “starter” unit, you may be better off going with a lower-priced or secondhand model. If you’re willing to go that next step up, though, this is a great bed. My room feels about 30% more refined because of it. Considering the quality of the construction and the white-glove delivery, the cost definitely seems fair.

By Zoë Sessums

By Sara Barragán del Rey

By Audrey Lee

Lockwood Charcoal Queen Upholstered Panel Bed

Living Spaces

Material: Solid wood and MDF

Bed sheets reviewer: Kristi Kellogg, contributing writer

What attracted you to this bed frame? I was looking for something that was elegant without being stuffy—and this fit the bill. Upholstered bed frames—especially tufted ones—can sometimes get a little ornate and fussy, but not this one. It still feels entirely contemporary.

What was the delivery and assembly like? I bought this along with a couch, ottoman, and dining set, and purchased the full service delivery. For $99, you get all the items in your delivery assembled, which I thought was an excellent deal. The delivery men set up everything in less than an hour. The entire process was seamless.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? Yes! This was actually my first upholstered bed frame, and I love how comfortable it is to sit back on when you’re reading in bed. It’s so soft and cozy.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? 10.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? Yes! It’s such great quality and so beautiful. I absolutely love it and would definitely buy it again.

Modloft Haru Bed

Modloft

Material: Solid oak wood base and Andorra wool–upholstered headboard

Name and job title: Audrey Lee, commerce editor

What attracted you to this bed frame? I loved the minimalist, Japanese design inspiration that went into building this bed frame. While the slanted legs give the illusion of something very low-profile, the frame actually has quite a bit of space underneath which lets me store plastic bins filled with winter sweaters and extra bedding.

What was the delivery and assembly like? The bed frame was delivered in two packages to my doorstep—the upholstered headboard in one and the wood frame parts disassembled and compacted in another (both relatively heavy so it’d be good to have assistance carrying it wherever). Modloft offers in-home delivery and set-up for a fee and let me tell you this now: Get it. Trying to put this bed frame together took hours, not counting the numerous breaks I had to take to rethink the choices I had made leading up to my attempts to assemble my own furniture. The main mistake you can make with this frame in my opinion is trying to assemble it yourself (as I did). It’s nearly impossible to do. While several parts of the process aren’t particularly hard and are definitely feasible to take on alone, the whole assembly process is quite tedious and there are several portions which require an extra person, if not a third (for example, attaching the headboard to the frame). The TL;DR: Spring for the assembly or have lots of help to make the whole process much shorter.

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? Despite the assembly experience being a bit rocky I’m absolutely in love with this bed frame. It’s incredibly elegant and it does an amazing job supporting my mattress. My favorite thing about it remains the minimal look and clean lines of it, not to mention the headboard is surprisingly comfy to lean against when I’m reading or scrolling on my phone and laptop before lights out.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10 and why? I’d rate it a 9—and the one point deduction is only because I put it together myself and there was definitely some self-doubt during the process. That said, I’ve slept on this bed for over a year and haven’t felt a wobble

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? I’d absolutely recommend this frame to a friend, it’s probably the nicest bed frame I’ve ever owned. While the design leans more minimal I think it’d work in a variety of spaces, too. Just know that if you plan on moving, disassembling and reassembling the frame might be a bit of a headache.

Copper Grove Virrat Wood Platform Bed

Overstock

Material: Solid wood

Bed sheets reviewer: Kristi Kellogg, contributing writer

What attracted you to this bed frame? I wanted to get a wood bed frame that was contemporary and fairly minimalistic. A lot of the wood frames I was coming across while shopping online were a little too ornate for my taste. But then I found this beauty on Overstock and I knew it was the one!

Admittedly, shopping for furniture online can always feel like a bit of a gamble, but I felt pretty confident about this bed: I noticed that this is one of Overstock’s top-rated items and read through review after glowing review. On top of that, Overstock offers a 30-day return window and there’s also a 90-day manufacturer warranty.

The bed arrived with no hassle, and and I’m happy to report it was gorgeous in real life—just like the pictures. I love the panels on the headboard and sides—they really give it something extra. I also love the fact that there’s a footboard to tuck your duvet into. I always think a bed looks so crisp that way.

I went for the California king, but the bed is also available in queen. There are a few color options: antique gray, antique white, antique black, and oak. I chose antique gray and could not be more pleased. It’s the perfect kind of gray: It’s not too light or too dark. It’s super neutral and can fit with so many color palettes.

What was the delivery and assembly like? The bed is delivered in sections via five large boxes. All the sections were securely packed and looked great upon unboxing. The assembly was straightforward and took about two and a half hours (with two people working on it).

Did the bed frame live up to your expectations? It exceeded them.

How would you rate the sturdiness of this bed frame on a scale of 1–10? 10. It’s very sturdy, well made, and heavy.

Would you recommend this bed frame to a friend? Yes! You really can’t go wrong with this bed.

By Aleenah Ansari

By Kristi Kellogg

By Erika Owen

By Kristi Kellogg