The Ultimate Guide to Platform Beds

Platform bed is more than just a place to sleep – it is a smart solution for better comfort, storage, and style. It suits both compact apartments and spacious homes, with options ranging from low-profile designs to hydraulic storage beds. This blog helps you pick the perfect bed by explaining key factors such as size, material, height, and mattress compatibility.
It is a Saturday morning. You wake up, stretch, and decide to grab something from under your bed. You bend down, only to realise the space is cluttered with old suitcases, shoes, and things you have forgotten about. Frustrated, you push them aside, only to hear your bed creak loudly – yet another reminder that it might not last much longer.
Sounds familiar? Many of us deal with beds that take up too much space, offer little to no storage, or simply do not match the modern aesthetics of our homes. If you want a bed that combines style, comfort, and practicality, this blog will help you choose.
It covers everything, from selecting the ideal size and material to understanding mattress compatibility and storage options. By the end, you will know exactly which platform bed design suits your lifestyle.
5 Steps to Choose the Right Platform Bed
Selecting a platform bed requires carefully considering space, design, comfort, and storage needs. Here is a detailed step-by-step guide covering dimensions, height, materials, and other essential factors.
Step 1: Measure Your Room Size & Layout
Before buying a bed, measure your bedroom dimensions to ensure it fits without overcrowding your space.
Bed Size |
Recommended Room Size (Minimum) |
Space Around Bed for Easy Movement |
Single (6×3 ft) | 8×7 ft | 2ft on all sides |
Double (6×4.5 ft) | 10×10 ft | 2.5ft on all sides |
Queen (6×5 ft) | 12×10 ft | 2.5-3ft on all sides |
King (6×6 ft) | 14×12 ft | 3ft on all sides |
Read to know more: Bedroom Design Ideas
Step 2: Choose the Right Height
Platform bed frame comes in different heights, and choosing the right one depends on your comfort, age group, and room aesthetics.
Type |
Height (Floor to Top of Platform Bed Frame) |
Best For |
Low-height | 8-12 inches | Modern and minimalistic interiors |
Standard | 12-18 inches | Comfortable height for daily use |
High | 18-24 inches | Platform bed with storage, while maintaining a traditional feel |
Read to know more: Bedroom Furniture Ideas: Colour Your Dreams for a Vibrant Space!
Step 3: Select the Right Material for Durability
The choice of material affects the durability, aesthetics, and maintenance of your bed. Choosing the right material ensures long-term use with minimal upkeep.
Material |
Pros |
Cons |
Maintenance Tips |
Solid Wood (Teak, Sheesham, Mango Wood) | Durable, premium look, long-lasting | Expensive, heavy | To maintain shine, polish every 6-12 months and avoid excess moisture to prevent warping |
Engineered Wood (MDF, Particle Board, Plywood) | Budget-friendly; variety of designs | Less durable than solid wooden platform bed | Keep away from water and humidity, and clean with a dry or slightly damp cloth |
Metal Frame | Lightweight, sturdy, modern appeal | Can be noisy; limited storage options | Check for rust and repaint if needed; tighten screws regularly |
Upholstered (Fabric, Leatherette) | Soft and cushioned, luxurious look | Requires regular cleaning | Vacuum the fabric weekly; wipe leatherette with damp cloth and mild soap |
Step 4: Choose Storage or Non-Storage Bed
Depending on your space and needs, select between these two types. Platform beds with storage offer additional space for organising household essentials, while non-storage beds provide a sleek and open look.
Type |
Storage Mechanism |
Ideal For |
Hydraulic | Lifts up with gas springs | Maximum storage with easy lift-up access |
Drawer | Pull-out drawers on sides | Compact rooms where frequent access is needed |
Box | Fixed compartments | Budget-friendly option for deep storage needs |
Non-storage Bed | No storage, open bottom | Minimalist look, easy cleaning, better airflow |
Read to know more: Guide to Designing a Safe and Fun Kids’ Bedroom
Step 5: Check Mattress Compatibility and Comfort
The right mattress can enhance the comfort and support of your bed. Choose the correct type, thickness, and material to ensure better sleep quality and mattress longevity.
Mattress Type |
Thickness |
Material |
Best Suited for Bed Type |
Comfort Level |
Memory Foam | 6-10 inches | High-density foam | Storage & non-storage | Soft to medium |
Latex | 6-12 inches | Natural or synthetic latex | Solid wooden platform bed
or metal beds |
Medium to firm |
Pocket Spring | 8-12 inches | Coiled springs with foam layering | Hydraulic or standard-height beds | Medium-soft |
Bonnell Spring | 8-10 inches | Traditional interconnected springs | Standard or high-platform beds | Medium-firm |
Hybrid | 8-14 inches | Foam + innerspring combination | High-platform beds with headboards | Medium to soft |
Coir | 4-6 inches | Coconut coir + foam layering | Low-height or budget-friendly beds | Firm |
Orthopaedic Foam | 6-10 inches | High-resilience support foam | Low or standard-height beds | Firm |
Conclusion
No more creaky bed frames, no more cluttered spaces, and no more struggling to find a mattress that fits just right. A platform bed design is not just about sleeping, it is about creating a space that works for you – whether that means extra storage, sleek modern design, or sturdy foundation that lasts for years.
Read to know more: Innovative Single Bed Designs with Built-In Storage Solutions
FAQs
1. What are the drawbacks of platform beds?
The drawbacks of platform beds are higher weight compared to traditional frames, low height for some users, and limited under-bed airflow due to storage.
2. Is it ok to use a regular mattress on a platform bed?
Yes, it is ok to use a regular mattress on a platform bed, as it provides sturdy support for all mattress types. However, memory foam, latex, or hybrid mattresses work best for even weight distribution and enhanced comfort.
3. Do platform beds require box spring?
No, platform beds do not require box spring as they have built-in sturdy base that provides direct mattress support.
4. How do platform beds provide extra storage?
Platform beds provide extra storage with hydraulic lift-up compartments, drawers, or boxes.
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