Do You Need A Bed Frame For Your Mattress?

Given that humans spend roughly one-third of their lives sleeping, it makes sense that you’d want only the best for your sleeping space – and that includes your bed frame. But do you need one for your mattress, or is it all about looks? Yes, you need a bed frame. Although this answer is more complicated. Read on to learn more about bed frames and why you might want one.

What Is A Bed Frame?

Generally speaking, a bed frame (or “bed foundation”) is anything that supports your mattress. Just like all other sleepytime accessories, they come in all shapes, sizes, and materials – it’s all down to your personal preference.

Types Of Bed Frame

Some frames are big and bulky with built-in storage underneath, while others are minimalist and barely there. Here are a few common kinds of bed frames and how they differ.

Wooden Bed Frame

A wooden frame is probably the most common type of bed frame because of how flexible and customizable it is. These can be made of different kinds of wood and stains, meaning you have a pretty wide range of colors, textures, and even load-bearing ability. 

But that’s not all there is to this piece of furniture. Most wooden frames are assembled with slats at the bottom that act as a firm surface for your memory foam mattress while encouraging airflow. This makes solid wood frames the perfect option for achieving cozy bedroom vibes without getting too warm.

Metal Bed Frame

Modern beds can be pretty dense, especially when you’re sleeping on heavier mattresses or hybrid beds. To compensate, you’ll need a bed frame that can handle the added weight – and metal foundations are a great solution. Additionally, a metal frame is usually stronger and quieter overall, which makes it a wonderful addition to your sanctuary of rest and relaxation.

Fabric Bed Frame

Are you looking for something with a little more visual flair? The fabric bed frame might be the perfect thing for you. Fabric-covered frames can be plain, patterned, or textured – they can be customized to even the most exacting aesthetic standards. 

Does Your Mattress Need A Bed Frame?

Now you know all about bed frames and the different types they come in, but the question remains: is it a requirement? The short answer is that it’s not necessary, but the benefits vastly outweigh the cost of having one. 

You’ll probably be able to get a perfectly pleasant night sleeping on a regular mattress without a bed frame or box spring, but there are a few reasons why you might want to get one anyway.

Benefits Of A Bed Frame

The best decisions are well-informed, so reading up on the benefits of having a bed frame is integral to your purchasing process. Here are some of the most commonly cited benefits of having a bed frame. 

Mold Prevention

Here’s something you probably don’t want to be thinking about when you’re trying to go to bed for the night: the underside of your sleeping surface is a hotbed for mold growth. It’s dark, damp, and hardly ever scrubbed down – making it the perfect environment for mold.

However, this only happens if your mattress isn’t lifted off the ground. That means laying your mattress over a bed frame makes mold growth a total non-issue.

Mattress Support

The thing about mattresses is that they tend to sag and warp over time. That means your body won’t always get the support it needs for pain-free sleep. However, a high-quality bed frame can accommodate a bit of flex as you toss and turn in bed, alleviating the backaches and body pain associated with substandard support. 

As a bonus, bed frames also prevent your mattress from getting damaged and scratched up, which can sometimes void its warranty. A proper foundation can support your back and your wallet. 

Storage Space

Some bed frames come with built-in drawers and storage, which can be a welcome addition to homes of all sizes. You can toss sheets, pillows, or even clothes into the little compartment to make up for all the space your frame takes up.

Temperature Control

Ventilation is key when staying cool overnight, but sleeping on a mattress on the floor offers basically none. Most people run hotter when they hit the hay, which means they’ll be sweating and transferring their body heat to their mattresses. 

Putting a little lift in your sleep zone means air flows freely throughout the night, which stops your bed from getting too hot.

Aesthetics

Having a beautiful home is paramount for many people, and bed frames can make any bedroom go from drab to fab in a few seconds. Crafty folks can decorate even the most plain-looking bed frames with fairy lights and ribbons, while others choose sleek wooden foundations to complement their earthy aesthetic. 

Is Having No Bed Frame Bad?

We’ve discussed the laundry list of benefits that make buying a bed frame a good idea, but is sleeping without one bad? Of course not. Many folks worldwide prefer the stiff support sleeping on the floor can give you, and that’s totally fine. 

But what’s the one thing you may want to consider when sleeping on a frameless mattress? Getting out of bed might be more challenging in the morning because you’re so close to the ground. 

To Bed Frame Or Not To Bed Frame?

A bed frame won’t make or break your sleeping experience, but it can greatly improve it. That said, it’s not a total necessity to your sleep arsenal and can be overlooked in favor of saving money, space, or even just because you don’t like how it looks. However, frameless sleepers need to take extra care and ensure their sleeping areas are clean because they’re closer to the floor. 

Either way, you’ll be getting some pretty solid shuteye with the right mattress and a great sleeping habits – so don’t lose sleep over your bed frame.