Last Updated on August 29, 2023 by bethrmartin
Create the ultimate sanctuary with the timeless look of an iron bed frame. With clean lines and durable construction, this classic style can serve as the centerpiece of your chic and cozy bedroom.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the perfect frame?
Traditionally a metal bed frame lends itself to a farmhouse vibe, but with slight tweaks to this design, it can look ultra-modern, mid-century, or even glam. This style is so adaptable that it can easily adjust to bedroom decor changes over time, making it a great choice with long-lasting appeal.
Whether you have the budget to splurge or save, I have found great options for every price point. So grab a pillow, relax, and let’s find the best metal bed frame for your stylish oasis!
Skip ahead to see the Best Metal Bed Frames of 2023 ↓
Before You Buy An Iron Bed Frame…
…And What To Look For On Your Search For The Best Metal Bed Frames
Frame Material – Iron vs. Steel Frame
A wrought iron bed frame is typically made from solid iron, while other metal bed frames are usually steel. Iron beds are often more sturdy and durable than steel metal frames, but iron frames are typically more expensive.
When you choose a metal bed frame, consider the durability of the materials. The more heavy-duty bed frame, the less the metal frame will creak, giving a restful night’s sleep.
Box Spring vs. No Box Spring?
Most metal bed frames won’t require a box spring or foundation, but some will. It is essential to check the manufacturer’s specs to determine the needs of your frame.
Some frames use a wooden slat system to support your mattress. In this case, using a box spring is up to you.
When it comes to metal frames, most bed frames will not require a box spring, but it’s better to double check.
Type Of Mattress You Plan On Using
Any mattress can be used with a metal bed frame, whether a memory foam or a traditional spring mattress. However, it is necessary to ensure the bed frame supports your mattress and has the weight capacity needed for the type of mattress you select.
Under-Bed Clearance and Storage Capacity
Most iron bed frames are very low-profile, so if you are used to under bed storage, this can be challenging. Before buying, check how many inches of under bed clearance is available for storage space if this is important.
What is the Best Metal Bed Frame of 2023?
Here are my top picks for the Best Metal Bed Frames:
- Anthropologie Deco Bed – Best Overall
- Paloma Retro Black Bed – Best Budget Alternative
- Maddie Bed
- Washington Metal Bed Frame
- Cavale Bed
- Maude Bed
- Tabiauea Metal Canopy Bed Frame
- Zinus Joseph Metal Platforma Bed
- Helix Frame
- Kempst Steel Bed Frame
- CB2 Frame Black Iron Canopy Bed
- Dalessandro Bed Frame
- Mr. Kate Primrose Metal Bed
- Article Virk Black Bed
- Room&Board Parsons Bed
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1. Anthropologie Deco Bed – Best Overall
This handcrafted iron bed from Anthropologie is my absolute favorite. We have had this beauty for five years, and it’s still my dream bed.
Not only does this iron bed complement the historic charm of our home and look absolutely stunning in our bedroom, but it has great quality and is beyond sturdy. This bed is a splurge, but I think it was worth it because it’s the standout feature in our room, doesn’t creak, and couldn’t fit our space better.
This frame comes with beautiful gold detailing, and the curvy shape has so much personality. Even though we went with a king-size frame, and this bed is quite tall, the airiness of the design makes it fit perfectly in our not-so-large bedroom.
The base uses wooden slats to support the mattress, so you don’t need a box spring, but we chose to use one anyway. I use this box spring cover so it wouldn’t be noticeable, and it looks flawless.
Because of its timeless style, fantastic craftsmanship, and beautiful detailing, I think the Deco Bed is the best metal bed frame available.
- Available sizes: King, Queen
- Material: Iron
- It can be used with or without a box spring.
2. Paloma Retro Black Bed – Best Budget Alternative
Love the Anthropologie metal frame, but hate the price? Then run, don’t walk to this Paloma Retro Bed on Amazon.
With similar lines and proportions, the Paloma metal headboard and footboard are also available in a few additional colors.
This version doesn’t have the gold detailing, it’s unavailable in a king, and some customers have had some assembly issues, but you might be able to overlook these flaws for this price.
For a sliver of the price, you get the same glam styling as the more expensive model. The Palmoma is an excellent budget score and one of the best metal bed frames on a budget.
- Available sizes: Queen, Full
- Material: Steel
- Box spring is required.
- Available in four color finishes.
3. Maddie Bed
The Maddie Iron Bed from Lulu and Georgia perfectly balances contemporary and farmhouse styling. The angular iron tubing design gives this bed a stylish character, while the overall shape is absolutely timeless.
The loop detailing gives a very polished and luxe look, and the frame is made from solid iron, making it very heavy-duty.
Since this metal frame is so transitional, it would be effortless to style in many different ways, and it will be a piece you will want in your home for many years to come.
- Available sizes: King, Queen, Twin
- Material: Iron
- A low-profile box spring is recommended.
4. Washington Metal Bed Frame
If you are searching for a vintage-styled metal platform frame that doesn’t break the bank, then the Washington Frame might be just what you need. The pointed arch of the headboard and footboard makes this style unique and charming, and this price almost seems too good to be true.
But don’t let this cost fool you – this metal bed frame has heavy duty steel construction and is built with durability in mind. It has an impressive weight capacity of 1000 lbs, making it perfect for rowdy kids jumping on the bed or even a guest room.
The ample space under the frame allows for enough clearance to use as extra storage space, which is not typical with metal bed frames.
- Available sizes: Queen, Full, Twin
- Material: Steel
- Box spring not required.
- Available in two color finishes.
- Compatible with memory foam mattresses.
5. Cavale Bed
The curved headboard and footboard design of the Cavale Platform Bed is so refined and chic. Handcrafted from solid iron, this bed uses modern vertical metal rail detailing, while the arch shape will feel at home with most decor styles.
This bed frame comes with a wood slat system used for the base, meaning a sturdy base and a good night’s sleep. Unfortunately, this style is only available as a queen right now, but depending on the size of your room, this could be the perfect option for your space.
- Available sizes: Queen
- Material: Iron
- Box spring not required.
- Easy to assemble.
6. Maude Bed
The Maude frame from Arhaus is designed with drama in mind. Inspired by suspension cables, the meticulous detailing makes this design feel architectural and contemporary.
This frame is designed to last generations, and the style will always be able to adapt to many types of decor. The industrial vibe is bold yet adaptable to many decor styles.
- Available sizes: King, Queen, Full, Twin
- Material: Iron
7. Tabiauea Metal Canopy Bed Frame
I love how a canopy bed can make a bedroom feel sophisticated and timeless, and a sleek iron frame makes this look contemporary. The proportions of the Tabiauea Metal Frame are very refined, while the price is practically a steal.
- Available sizes: Queen, Full
- Material: Steel
- No need for a box spring.
- Easy assembly
- Available in three color options.
- Over a foot of under-bed clearance for extra storage space.
8. Zinus Joseph Metal Platforma Bed
The Joseph Metal Platforma Bed Frame is hard to beat for lovers of ultra-modern, minimalist design. This sleek frame features unfussy, simple lines and is offered in multiple heights, including a low profile metal bed or high rise platform options.
This metal frame is easy to assemble, and you can purchase a matching mattress as well if you wish. Keep things streamlined without a headboard, or simply add a wall-hung headboard of your choice for more drama.
- Available sizes: King, Queen, Full, Twin, Narrow Twin
- Material: Steel
- Box spring not required.
- Easy to assemble.
9. Helix Frame
If you are looking for a simple but heavy duty bed frame that won’t break the bank, you must check out the Helix Frame. This option is the most streamlined of all the frames on this list, but sometimes simplicity is just what you need.
You can either attach a headboard to the metal structure or use the base on its own. The Helix is designed to hold a total weight limit of 2500 lbs, meaning you won’t hear creaks, and you can trust this bed frame to last a lifetime.
- Available sizes: California King, King, Queen, Full, Twin, XL Twin
- Material: Steel construction + injection-molded, fiberglass-infused resins
- A foundation or base is needed.
- A matching mattress is available for purchase.
- Easy assembly
10. Kempst Steel Bed Frame (By Trent Austin Design)
This metal frame is the perfect pairing of rustic and contemporary – it would complement your upstate cabin just as well as your guest room with Scandanavian-inspired wallpaper. With just enough detailing to make this metal frame feel special, the Kempst bed will be adaptable in your home decor for many years.
11. CB2 Frame Black Iron Canopy Bed
CB2 does it again with this stunning metal canopy bed. The matte black frame paired with gold accents is extremely elegant, and the contemporary shape is striking.
12. Dalessandro Bed Frame
The Dalessandro metal bed has modern, clean lines, but the scalloped interior detailing makes it feel very refined and tones down the sharp angles. This metal platform bed frame has plenty of room for underbed storage, and you’ll be shocked by the affordable price.
13. Mr. Kate Primrose Metal Bed
The artistic lines of the headboard and footboard on this metal bed frame feel like a modern version of Art Nouveau styling. Offered in white or matte black, this platform bed will surely be a focal point in your romantic-styled bedroom.
14. Article Virk Black Bed
Modern and sleek, this durable steel frame from Article will be a bold statement in any room. Wooden slats support your mattress, giving your bed a minimalist look.
15. Room & Board Parsons Metal Bed Frame
If you love color, then the Parsons bed is the metal bed frame for you! Many metal bed frames are only offered in black, but this frame comes in 18 fun hues, and I love this bright tangerine shade.
This metal platform bed almost looks like it’s made of wood, but it’s actually made from recycled steel.
Final Thoughts
With timeless style and enduring construction, metal bed frames can effortlessly become the centerpiece of your bedroom oasis. With so many available styles and price points, you can find the perfect frame for the bedroom of your dreams.
I can’t recommend the Deco Frame by Anthropologie more. The craftsmanship is flawless, and its whimsical silhouette brings so much drama to a room.
The Deco is a splurge, but Paloma Frame also has great style and is a fantastic budget-friendly alternative. The materials aren’t quite as luxe, but the overall form is just as chic.
If you prefer the look of clean lines and modern decor, go with the Maddie Bed or the Tabiauea Metal Canopy Frame. Both offer the perfect balance of modernity and functionality for those seeking a sleek and minimalist aesthetic but at different price points.
Remember, these iron bed frames can transform your bedroom into a personal haven and reflect your unique personality and taste. So, take a leap of imagination, trust your instincts, and find the iron bed frame that resonates with your sense of style.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this post, and I hope you found this information helpful in your search for a new iron bed frame!
Happy slumber!
