Metal or wooden bed frames, which are better?

Many shoppers find it difficult to choose between a metal or wooden bed frame. Both options have pros and cons, and while aesthetics may heavily influence the final decision, it’s important to consider other factors like support, durability, and room space.

Pros and cons of wooden and metal bed frames

Wooden Bed Frames

Pros

• Wooden beds provide a warm, natural look and add character to the bedroom.
• They are available in various styles to suit modern and traditional settings.
• They can sometimes be ordered with other bedroom furniture as part of bedroom collections.
• Wood is sturdy and durable, especially hardwoods like oak or walnut.
• Easy to clean and maintain.

Cons

• Wooden frames are heavier and bulkier and take up more bedroom space.
• They may be susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity, which may cause cracks or warping.
• Wooden bed frames are often more expensive than metal frames.
• Some wooden beds are low to the floor, reducing the space underneath the bed.

Metal Bed Frames

Pros

• Metal beds are generally lighter and easier to move.
• They typically take up less space than wooden beds and are ideal for smaller rooms.
• Metal beds are usually cheaper than wooden bed frames.
• They are less prone to cracking or warping over time.
• Some metal frames have adjustable height settings.
• Metal beds are relatively straightforward to assemble.

Cons

• Metal can feel cold or bland on its own.
• Metal may rust if it is not looked after properly.
• Poorly assembled or constructed metal frames may squeak or creak.
• They are less comfortable to sit up against.
• Painted metal frames may chip over time.

Aesthetics

The bed is one of the most important features of the bedroom. It is the focal point and sets the tone for the room’s design, so it’s understandable why people choose a bed for its aesthetic appeal.

A wooden bed frame makes a bedroom feel warm and cosy. There’s nothing quite like the natural beauty of wood. Its grain and tones bring charm and character to the bedroom.

Wooden bed frames can be made from various hardwoods and softwoods, such as oak, pine, beech, ash, and walnut. They come in classic and modern designs, from luxurious sleigh beds with curved headboards to less elaborate panelled or slatted styles. Wooden beds are also available as bunk beds, canopy beds, and trundle beds.

Wooden bed frames are often part of a bedroom collection, allowing you to buy matching items like bedside tables, chests, and wardrobes for a coordinated look. You can also mix and match different woods, materials and other furniture items if you prefer to be more adventurous.

Some wooden bed frames may lack sufficient space underneath the bed for storage or cleaning. Wooden beds can sometimes have sharp corners, so they may not be the best option if you have children.

Metal beds are known for their elegance and versatility. They are available in various colours, such as black, white, cream, silver, and pink. Metal beds come in various styles, from intricate patterns and ornate scrollwork to sleek, clean lines, making them suitable for any bedroom setting.

Some metal frames come with matching furniture, like bedside cabinets, but the options are limited.

Metal can feel bland on its own, but you can spruce it up by mixing it with other materials like wood.

Some metal beds have adjustable height settings, allowing you to raise or lower the frame to a more convenient bed height. This can be useful for creating more space underneath the bed for storage and cleaning or making it easier to get in and out of bed.

Metal beds can be uncomfortable to sit against, and using pillows for support may not work because they can slip through the gaps in the headboard. Pillows can also fall behind the bed while sleeping.

Room space

Wooden beds typically take up more room space than metal beds, especially if they are bulky. Wooden sleigh beds, for example, come with curved headboards and footboards, which can take up considerable floor space and dominate a smaller bedroom. Therefore, a metal bed may be more appropriate for a smaller bedroom.

Whatever style you choose, check your measurements carefully to ensure the bedroom can accommodate the frame. While most frames come flat-packed, some have large headboards that can be difficult to manoeuvre. Ensure you check access points like stairs and doorways to avoid delivery issues.

Support

It is essential to choose a bed base that properly supports the mattress. Most bed frames have a slatted base to support the mattress, while some may use a metal grid or wire mesh base instead.

Wooden bed frames typically use solid or sprung slats for mattress support. Solid slats are rigid and don’t provide any ‘give’. Sprung slats are curved and flexible and offer more cushioning. They work with the mattress to improve comfort and help extend its lifespan.

When placing a mattress on a slatted base, check the manufacturer’s recommendations for slat spacing. If the slats are too far apart, the mattress may sag between the gaps and get damaged. Also, avoid placing your mattress directly on the slats. Place a mattress pad or breathable blanket over the slats to protect your mattress from splinters and indentations.

Metal bed frames typically support the mattress with slats, a metal grid, or a wire mesh base.

Some bed frames have centre legs for extra support. However, the centre leg may loosen or break over time, making the bed unstable. It can also make cleaning underneath difficult and limit the under-bed storage space.

Avoid pairing a cheap bed frame with a good-quality mattress, as the frame may not support the mattress’s weight and could invalidate your mattress guarantee or warranty.

Cost

Bed frame prices can vary depending on the manufacturer, style, material quality, and construction quality. Furthermore, prices may vary between different retailers depending on their current offers and promotions. However, metal frames are generally cheaper than wooden frames.

Durability

Wood and metal can be durable depending on material and construction quality. Hardwood frames made from materials like oak, ash, and beech are generally more durable than softwoods like pine. Softwoods are inexpensive but can easily get scratched or dented.

Wood naturally expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity, which may lead to small cracks, especially on painted finishes. Over time, the wood’s colour can also change, and you may notice shade variations if you have matching furniture.

The condition of the slats may also deteriorate over time. Solid slats, in particular, can develop cracks, splits, or show signs of wear, which could damage the mattress if unprotected. A common misconception about metal beds is that they squeak or creak in use. While this may be the case with poorly manufactured bed frames, good-quality frames that have been assembled correctly should not make a noise. However, metal may rust over time if it is not looked after properly.

Maintenance

Both metal and wooden bed frames are easy to maintain. You can clean them routinely with a soft, dry cloth, and they won’t stain or soil like upholstered bases.

Assembly

Bed frames usually come flat-packed and may require self-assembly. While each bed has different assembly instructions, wood and metal bed frames are relatively straightforward to assemble. It is advisable that two people assemble the bed. However, metal bed frames tend to be lighter and more manageable.

Some retailers may offer an assembly service for a small charge if you have concerns about assembling the bed.

Bed frame weight

Wooden bed frames vary in weight depending on the type of wood. They are typically heavier than metal beds, making them harder to move. Furthermore, low wooden frames may provide limited space underneath for cleaning, so you may need to move the bed for vacuuming.

Metal beds may be a more practical option for those who often rearrange their bedrooms to accommodate guests or regularly move homes.

Alternatives to bed frames

Other options are available if you’re unsure whether a metal or wooden bed is right for you.

Upholstered beds

An upholstered bed can be fully or partially covered in various soft fabrics. The headboard is typically well-padded, making it comfortable to sit up against.

Divan beds

Divan beds are another option. They are suitable for most mattresses and take up less space than a bed frame. Some divans feature a spring unit mounted to the top of the base for extra comfort.  

Final thoughts

Choosing between a metal or wooden bed frame depends on your tastes and preferences. Consider which type suits your lifestyle better. One style isn’t necessarily better, but whichever you choose, ensure the frame is compatible with your mattress and provides proper support.