These Sleek Platforms Are Stylish Enough for Every Bedroom (2024)

These Sleek Platforms Are Stylish Enough for Every Bedroom (1)

Sleek in appearance and lower than your typical bed frame, a platform bed features “a profile which is more suited to a modern space or style,” says interior designer Bethany Adams of Bethany Adams Interiors. Platform beds are aesthetic and come in countless styles, and they’re also impressively versatile. Their frames can often handle a lot of weight and typically sit at a height that also provides plenty of under-bed storage, points out Audrey Scheck of Audrey Scheck Design.

One of the biggest perks of choosing a platform bed, though, is it streamlines your mattress setup. You can skip the bulky box spring or foundation—instead, the mattress sits directly on the platform itself. Getting rid of the box spring “can be a savings of several hundred dollars,” Adams says.

We turned to Scheck and Adams to help steer our selection of the best platform beds, keeping in mind that there are many types of platform beds, from canopy to upholstered, to suit every style.

Our Top Picks

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In This Article

  • Our Picks

  • What to Look For

  • FAQ

  • Why Trust the Spruce

Best Overall

Thuma The Bed

These Sleek Platforms Are Stylish Enough for Every Bedroom (2)

What We Like

  • Sturdy wood construction

  • 2 headboard options

  • Tool-free Japanese joinery and assembly

What We Don't Like

  • Headboard is an add-on

  • PillowBoard doesn’t connect to frame

For our top spot, the simply named The Bed from Thuma is the clear choice. It comes in all standard bed sizes, and is available in a variety of stains. We love that it’s made from wood, with absolutely no MDF or veneers, a detail that enhances its durability and longevity.

Thoughtful touches abound on Thuma’s bed frame. For instance, the bottoms of the legs are covered in cork, so they won’t mar the floor; the slats lock in place, so one corner of the mattress won’t begin sinking in the middle of the night. Oh, and about those slats: they’re coated in a felt made from recycled plastics, which the manufacturer says makes them strong, durable, and sound-reducing.

We like that this touch allows you to roll around without any irritating creaks or squeaks. Assembly is simple, and requires no tools, since this bed relies on Japanese joinery, a technique where the pieces slot into each other.

We like that this bed has an elegant and timeless design. It’s made to suit any style and any bedroom, and we love that there are three style options: without a headboard, with headboard, or with a padded PillowBoard headboard (which includes a removable, washable cover). The two headboards do come with an additional cost, however.

It’s also worth noting that should you choose the PillowBoard, this component doesn’t actually connect to the bed frame but rather sits atop it and between your mattress and the wall, which can pose a problem if you move the frame or mattress.

Dimensions: 85 x 65 inches (Queen) | Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Material: Wood | Underbed Space: 9 inches

Best Customizable

Floyd The Bed Frame

These Sleek Platforms Are Stylish Enough for Every Bedroom (3)

What We Like

  • Sizeable variety of optional add-ons

  • Sustainably-sourced wood veneer

  • Expandable sizing panels

What We Don't Like

  • Mattress can move on platform

  • Lengthy shipping time

If you're looking for a great American-made furniture company, Floyd is one of our favorites. So it’s no surprise that The Bed Frame from Floyd is on this list. This modular platform-style bed is made with wood (either walnut veneer or birchwood plywood, and uses steel supports and nylon ratchet straps.

We love that it’s completely customizable thanks to its modular design. If you start with a twin bed, you can add panels to size up. Want to add a headboard, bedside table, or underbed storage? That’s possible, too; you just have to choose your components.

In addition to its totally customizable design, Floyd’s The Bed is eye-catching and beautifully made, with clean lines. All of the wood used is sustainably sourced, and an engineered honeycomb core helps keep the total weight of the bed down without sacrificing the frame’s sturdiness. Expect to see variations in the color, texture, and grain of the wood.

Assembly is very easy—in fact, it’s also easy to disassemble, which makes this bed convenient if you foresee a move in your future.

Since the frame extends beyond the mattress, it really looks best when your comforter or duvet is tucked below the mattress. Keep in mind that the mattress may move a little as you make or unmake the bed; however, if you’re concerned about this, you can use a rug pad below the mattress and above the frame to keep it in place. It’s also worth noting that because this is a customized piece, the shipping time frame can leave you with a longer-than-typical wait.

Dimensions: 67 x 86 x 7.5 inches (Queen) | Sizes: Twin, Full/Queen, King | Material: Wood veneer and plywood, honeycomb core, powder-coated steel, nylon ( straps) | Underbed Space: 6 inches

Best With Storage

West Elm Side Storage Bed

These Sleek Platforms Are Stylish Enough for Every Bedroom (4)

What We Like

  • Under-bed storage drawers

  • Customizable upholstery, headboard, and legs

  • Solid wood frame components

What We Don't Like

  • Short drawer height

Since platform beds are low to the ground, having one often means sacrificing below-bed storage space. That’s not the case with the elegant Emmett platform bed from West Elm, which contains four drawers (two on each side) to stash away items neatly. This bed is available in the full range of sizes, stretching from twin to California king, and you can customize it to match your bedroom style and preferences.

We love how many customization options there are to choose from. For instance, the headboard is available in six styles, including diamond tufted and non-tufted, and two heights. The legs are also customizable, as is the fabric, which is available in a wide range of different colors and textures, including extra-durable performance options.

While there’s plenty of room to stash small items inside the four underbed drawers built right into the frame, keep in mind they’re on the small side when it comes to their height at just 5.75 inches tall. That’s not enough height for large or bulky items, but it should offer perfectly enough room for bedding, blankets, and even sweaters or other clothes.

Dimensions: 66 x 87 x 46 inches (Queen) | Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, California King | Material: Wood, engineered wood, fabric | Underbed Space: 5.75 inches (inside drawers)

Best With Headboard

Latitude Run Tufted Upholstered Platform Bed

These Sleek Platforms Are Stylish Enough for Every Bedroom (5)

What We Like

  • Foam-padded headboard

  • Adjustable headboard height

  • 4 velvet upholstery colors

What We Don't Like

  • Assembly can be tricky

If you’re searching for a platform bed with a headboard you can comfortably relax against, this option from Latitude Run is it. We love its decorative details, like button tufting and nailhead trim, as well as the velvet fabric that covers it. The combination of foam and velvet creates a soft, welcoming, and luxurious feel, and the padding in particular allows you to lean against it to read or watch television in comfort.

You can choose from four different hues of velvet upholstery, too. We also like the adjustable nature of the headboard, which allows the platform bed frame to accommodate many types of mattresses, even thicker ones.

The bed itself is made from wood and has sturdy slats plus center supports for a total weight capacity of 600 pounds. You may need an electric drill to fully assemble the bed, and the instructions can be a bit challenging to follow, so gird yourself beforehand for the assembly process. Overall, we think this is an elegant frame, one that makes for a sturdy and comfortable bed. which appears more refined than its price would indicate.

Dimensions: 61.8 x 82.6 inches (Queen) | Sizes: Full, Queen, King | Material: Wood, manufactured wood, velvet, foam | Underbed Space: 4.3 inches

Best on Amazon

Allewie Platform Bed Frame

What We Like

  • Vivid color choices

  • 1,000-pound weight capacity

  • Easy-to-assemble velcro slats

What We Don't Like

  • Setup can take hours

Featuring bold color options and a winged headboard, this upholstered bed from Allewie is one of the more vibrant platform beds on our list. This Amazon pick is available in just three sizes, but it comes in a number of hues from dark and light gray to peaco*ck green and bright yellow. The bed offers a bit of mid-century modern flair with its wingbacks, and it clocks in at under $300 (yes, even for the largest size!) to make it a budget-friendly option.

Despite the low price, this platform bed is a sturdy option as well as an attractive one. We like that it can handle up to 1,000 pounds of weight in total, making it a great choice for couples and those who sleep with their pets or kids. Plus, it’s easy to assemble the wood slats: They use a unique velcro fixture along the inside of the frame.

However, you should expect it to take a couple hours to put the bed together. Instructions could be clearer, and as with any big piece of furniture, an additional person is recommended for the assembly process.

Dimensions: 81.7 x 63.4 x 44.9 inches (Queen) | Sizes: Full, Queen, King | Material: Wood, steel, fabric | Underbed Space: Not listed

Best Under $500

Zinus Metal Platform Bed Frame

These Sleek Platforms Are Stylish Enough for Every Bedroom (7)

What We Like

  • Two frame styles

  • High clearance for underbed storage

  • Sturdy steel frame

What We Don't Like

  • May develop a squeak over time

  • Frame is heavy

If sturdy and solid are your priorities when it comes to a platform bed, but you don’t want to spend more than $500, we recommend the Mia Platform Bed Frame from Zinus. The metal frame of this bed is made from steel, with a wooden slat foundation, which offers a sleek yet understated appearance. We like that you can choose either a frame with or without a headboard to suit your space or preferences.

Another detail we love about this platform model is its height. With 12 inches of clearance under the frame, you’ll have plenty of space if you need to store items under the bed (under-bed storage organizers are perfect for this!). Assembly is easy and straightforward, too, but be warned: this bed is heavy and tough to move, especially when it arrives in its box.

Additionally, while it’s quite sturdy thanks to its steel construction, it can develop some squeakiness over time. If that’s the case, re-tightening the screws may help.

Dimensions: 79.5 x 59.3 x 14 inches (Queen) | Sizes: Narrow Twin, Twin, Full, Queen, King | Material: Steel, wood | Underbed Space: 12 inches

Best Easy to Assemble

Article Lenia Bed Frame

These Sleek Platforms Are Stylish Enough for Every Bedroom (8)

What We Like

  • 3 bed style choices, plus upholstery and stain options

  • Solid and veneered wood construction

  • Concealed joinery

What We Don't Like

  • Only 2 sizes available

The Lenia bed from Article is sleek, classic, and beautiful constructed, and we particularly love how simple it is to assemble. Available in two wood stains, three headboard materials, and a variety of frame styles, this bed is wonderfully customizable. It’s made from solid and veneered wood, with a Shaker design style and sleek concealed joinery that makes it look like one solid frame.

You can customize it easily, or keep it simple and opt for a more basic model. Since the bulk of this piece is made from natural wood, you can expect to see variations in color and texture, meaning each bed has a one-of-a-kind feel.

We love the flexible options here, as well as the bed’s simple lines and overall elegant appearance. The solid construction and durability of this frame is another mark in its favor. Plus, it’s quick to assemble, with easy-to-follow instructions. Our only slight complaint? We wish it came in more sizes!

Dimensions: Queen: 45 x 63 x 83 inches; King: 45 x 79 x 83 inches — height varies with size | Sizes: Queen, King | Material: Natural Wood

Best Upholstered

Crate & Barrel Tate Upholstered Bed

These Sleek Platforms Are Stylish Enough for Every Bedroom (9)

What We Like

  • Customizable upholstery, headboard height, and legs

  • Extra-thick padded headboard

  • Kiln-dried hardwood frame

What We Don't Like

  • Delayed shipping for some colorways

  • May develop creaks over time

Adams recommends looking for platform beds that are upholstered. “Those wooden platforms look really modern and cool, but at 3 a.m. when you're getting up to feed the baby, your shins will thank you for keeping things soft,” she says. This upholstered pick from Crate & Barrel is a great option, thanks to its extra-thick foam padding that’ll keep your shins safe and provide a cushy place to relax.

We love that you can customize the upholstery, the headboard height, and the tapered legs for your preferences. There are a whopping 190 upholstery options alone!

The frame is made from kiln-dried hardwood, a detail that enhances durability and wood longevity. We also like the extra-thick headboard padding, which is an impressive 7 inches thick; you’ll definitely be able to get comfortable when you lean back. On all sides of this platform bed, there’s also a thin lip to help you avoid the injured shin issue Adams flagged.

However, it’s worth noting that over time, the frame may become noisy and a bit creaky; to fix this, you may need to apply WD-40 or tighten the screws. Also, you’ll want to keep an eye on the delivery time for your chosen upholstery, as some fabrics and colors can take months to ship.

Dimensions: 67 x 90.5 x 38 inches (Queen) | Sizes: Full, Queen, King, California King | Material: Wood, foam, fabric | Underbed Space: 5 inches

Best Low Profile

Casper Upholstered Bed Frame

These Sleek Platforms Are Stylish Enough for Every Bedroom (10)

What We Like

  • 3 woven fabric options

  • 30-night sleep trial

  • One-tool assembly

What We Don't Like

  • Fabric does require special cleaning

Do you want to get low, low, low in your bed—but not so low your mattress is resting directly on the floor? This simple upholstered bed frame from Casper is the answer: It hovers just about ten inches above the ground, with black legs for support.

Aside from the legs, the bed is covered in woven fabric available in several neutral colors. Given the low height of the frame, make sure you feel comfortable getting in and out of a piece of furniture so close to the ground.

Setting up this platform bed is quite easy: Casper provides a single tool (an Allen wrench) to assemble the entire frame. It’s made with wood and steel, as well as your chosen upholstery fabric, and is quite sturdy when assembled. A 2-inch-wide ledge around the sides adds an elegant touch, and the rounded corners help prevent bumps or trips over the frame.

While many upholstered beds do require careful cleaning, Casper’s does have special care tips; vacuuming the upholstery with a brush attachment and applying fabric cleaner and disinfecting spray weekly is recommended. This isn’t a make-or-break detail, but it’s one that can be time-consuming as part of your weekly routine.

Dimensions: 63.3 x 81.4 x 10.6 inches (Queen) | Sizes: Full, Queen, King | Material: Fabric, foam, engineered wood, steel, plastic | Underbed Space: Not listed

Best Canopy

AllModern Aston Canopy Bed

These Sleek Platforms Are Stylish Enough for Every Bedroom (11)

What We Like

  • Sleek, minimalist style

  • Can add curtains

  • Sturdy and well-made

What We Don't Like

  • Limited color and size options

This sophisticated canopy bed by All Modern is very clearly for adults—and not intended for teenage rooms. It comes in a sleek gold color, and is made from steel. Strong lines and angles provide a modern appeal, and a finished back means that you have a lot of freedom when it comes to where you place this frame.

If the look begins to feel too minimalist or stark for your space, you can add curtains (even light, airy ones will create a cocoon-like effect).

The assembly process for this bed is simple. But measure your space carefully to ensure that the height of the bed is as-expected, and isn’t shorter than what you’re envisioning based on the pictures. Plus, be sure to check the clearance height of the top portion of the canopy if you or your bed partner are very tall so as to avoid bumping heads.

Overall, this is a sturdy and attractive bed that’s ideal for anyone seeking a modern-looking bedroom. More than that, this bed has a somewhat unexpected look: While canopy beds are often a soft, romantic touch, that can skew young in appearance, this one is grown-up and unique.

Dimensions: 72.01 x 59.45 x 83 inches (Queen) | Sizes: Queen, King | Material: Manufactured wood, steel | Underbed Space: 9.25 inches

Final Verdict

Our favorite pick for the best platform bed is our best overall pick, The Bed from Thuma. Made from wood, and using Japanese joinery, this bed is sturdy, creak-free, and incredibly beautiful. If you’re on a tight budget, though, we highly recommend our cost-effective best under $500 pick ZINUS Mia Metal Platform Bed Frame, which features a metal frame and is readily available on Amazon for well under $500. And, we’d be remiss to overlook our designer’s pick, the best upholstered Crate & Barrel Tate Upholstered Bed, which has been available at Crate & Barrel for well over a decade and will look beautiful in any bedroom featuring mid-century modern design.

What to Look for in a Platform Bed

Type

There are a few types of platform beds available, including the following:

  • Traditional: These “raise the mattress off the ground,” Scheck says. Some are available with a particularly low-profile, so the frame sits quite close to the ground, she says. With this design, the platform bed helps “the bedroom to look as spacious as possible.”Alternatively, if you want to make your platform bed higher, you can also add bed risers.
  • Storage: The advantage of these is the built-in drawers, Scheck says—those allow you to use the space underneath the frame to store items. An example is the best with storage West Elm Emmett Side Storage Bed, which includes four drawers.
  • Floating: “Floating platform beds have legs near the center of the mattress to achieve the illusion of a bed that's hovering just off the floor,” Scheck says. This can offer an appealing and modern look.
  • Canopy: The standout feature here is four pillars. These “provide a majestic, romantic feeling,” Scheck says. Our favorite canopy platform bed is the best canopy All Modern Black Aston Canopy Bed, which provides a modern spin on this style, with the ability to add curtains to soften the look.
  • Sleigh: Picture your typical sleigh bed, with a headboard and footboard curving away from the mattress, but with a slightly lower starting point. This type of bed will “provide a more traditional vibe,” Scheck says.

Whenever you’re choosing a bed frame, consider your personal style, the space in your bedroom, the price, durability, and what the bed is made from.

Size

Platform beds are available in a variety of sizes: twin, full/double, queen, king, and California king. Our best overall The Bed from Thuma is an example of a platform bed that’s available in a full suite of sizes. So too is the best with storage West Elm Emmett Side Storage Bed, which also includes built-in storage.

Before purchasing a platform bed—or any other bed—always check that the dimensions of the bed will fit in your bedroom, Scheck says. “We also suggest ensuring that the upholstery options and overall style match the design plan for the room,” she says.

Height

“Most platform beds are about 18 inches off the ground, including the height of the mattress,” Scheck says. That said, some have adjustable slats of legs, which means you can adjust the height of the frame, she points out.

Since platform beds are typically lower than standard bed frames, “they are not recommended for anyone with mobility restrictions,” Scheck says.

Material

If you have a material you like in a traditional bed frame, chances are you can find it in a platform bed as well, Scheck says. For instance, we recommend our best under $500 pick, the ZINUS Mia Metal Platform Bed Frame if you want a metal frame. Or, if you want an upholstered look, consider the best upholstered Crate & Barrel Tate Upholstered Bed. And for winged headboards, we love our best on Amazon pick, the Allewie Bed Frame.

FAQ

  • What is the best material for a platform bed?

    That depends on your household somewhat. “If pets or kids are present in the household, we steer clear of less forgiving fabrics like velvet,” Scheck says. If you’re going for an upholstered platform bed, look for performance fabrics. These “are typically the most durable and easy to clean,” Scheck says. Otherwise, both metal and wood can be easily cleaned.

  • Do I need a box spring for a platform bed?

    Absolutely not. “These beds are designed for the mattress to rest directly on the platform, which can either be constructed of slats or a solid surface,” Scheck says. In fact, the elimination of the box spring can be seen as a big perk of platform beds, since you’ll be spared the expense.

  • What are the drawbacks of a platform bed?

    The main drawback is also a feature: these beds sit lower to the ground than other styles of bed. That means it can be hard to get into bed (and get out of it). If you or your bed partner have mobility issues, platform beds are best avoided, Scheck says.

Why Trust the Spruce

This article was written by long-time freelance writer Madeleine Burry, who has written for the Spruce since 2019. She’s had a traditional bed for years, and has been eyeing a platform bed as an alternative. For insight into platform beds, Burry reached out to interior design experts, who shared insights on what to look for (and what to avoid) while shopping for a platform bed. Burry considered these expert tips and insights while choosing products for this list. The quality of the brand as well as reviews were also significant factors.

Our Experts:

  • Bethany Adams, interior designer at Bethany Adams Interiors
  • Audrey Scheck, interior designer at Audrey Scheck Design
  • Heather Adams, senior editor at The Spruce

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