Wood vs Metal Bed Frame, What’s Best?

When the time comes to get a brand new bed, attention turns to mattress sturdiness and comfort. Your bed is an epitome of comfort and healthy sleep means a happy and productive day. 

But what bed frame is best? You need a sturdy, durable, and comfortable base to ensure healthy rest. You can choose between wood or metal bed frames and each has its pros and cons. 

And here comes the big question. “Which one suits your needs best?” Is the solid wood your preferred base? Maybe you will sleep better on a sturdy, versatile metal frame? Or why not combo?

We at Domestications Bedding are about to review the four key factors to help you compare and make an informative decision.

How Much Will It Cost?

When it comes to expenses, take the most economically wise choice. Don’t rush to buy the first bed frame while balancing with other necessary improvements. Research and compare the potential purchases and maintenance costs related to each frame. 

The cost of a standard metal bed frame for small beds can be significantly lower than the wooden frame.

But If you want an overly large bed that requires a sturdier metal, the final cost will be much cheaper if you opt for the timber base. 

Products vary based on needs and taste but metal comes at a better price than wood. This is especially true for small-sized beds and standard frames. Take this into consideration, if the cost is your main factor.

Which One Is Sturdier?

There are different ways to describe sturdiness. Here, we talk about strength.

According to custom mattress craftsman Jonathan Prichard, an oversized metal frame is sturdier than the wooden frame. It has to be strong to support the larger mattress. But, even if you have a standard-sized bed, the metal frame is still less susceptible to material damage than most wooden frames.

Check out: How to Make a Copper Bed Frame 

Regardless of all, the frames made of wood are the stronger choice. Made of thick and solid materials, they have a robust stability system. Use the services of professional merchants with experience in custom-made wooden furnishings.

Besides that, the assembly of the wooden frames includes slats which provide additional strength and comfort. Such construction, however, is not typical for metal frames, though.

Wood is a perfect choice for sturdiness and support, especially if you want to tailor the guest bedroom of your dreams. 

What About Noise?

You might think the noise is not important for a new bed frame, but have you ever heard the awful sound of a squeaky bed? Then you will realize the importance of noise to sleep.

Wooden frames are quiet because of the sturdy construction and added stability. A quality wood foundation minimizes noise disruptions. 

The metal bed frame, regardless of its sturdiness and size, will screech at some point. 

Another key factor for the sound in your bedroom is the way you sleep and with whom you sleep. If you are a light sleeper and you twist and turn a lot, the bed frame might squeak sooner than expected. The same thing is likely to happen if you share the bed with a partner. But, if you sleep tight and alone, the likelihood of disturbing noises is minimal. 

Is Wood More Flexible Than Metal? 

Wooden frames are easier to customize. However, you can find some retailers which offer adjustable metal frames. Most models also come with pre-drilled holes so you can put an overhead board if you like. 

See our Step-By-Step Guide: How to Build an Easy DIY Bed Frame 

Which One Provides a Better Foundation and Weighs Less?

You might think wooden frames are heavier, but that is not always the case. For example, a deluxe metal-framed French bed can be much heavier when comparing solid wood to MDF engineered wooden bed. 

Thus said, it is no surprise that a sturdy queen-sized metal frame can outweigh the same size frame made of wood.  

Regarding support, it mostly depends on the actual design, rather than the material that was used to make it. 

The ideal frame in terms of sturdiness has a firm stone-brick foundation, but it is hard to find and costly.

Here Are the Benefits of Metal Bed Frames

• Zero or hardly any maintenance.
• Versatile design.
• A diverse choice of colors and models.
• High longevity.
• Fireproof and heat-resistant.
• Safe for kids.
• Easy to paint.
• Water-resistant.
• Bugs don’t like metal.
• Cost-effective.
• Lighter than wooden frames.
• Wheels for easy portability.
• Adjustable size.

What Are the Downsides of Metal Bed Frames?

• Possible unstable welding. 
• Less sophisticated than a wooden frame.
• Might get rusty if paint-seal breaks.
• Hard to recycle.
• Screech and squeak appear with time.

These Are the Advantages of Wood Beds

• Tailor-made.
• Sleek and elegant.
• Eco and recycle-friendly.
• Wood never goes out of fashion.
• Glossy finish.
• Offers an extra level of support.
• Slats construction for even more support.
• Flexible design solutions.
• Plenty of colors and materials to choose from.

And These Are the Drawbacks of Wood Beds

• Might cost a fortune.
• Heavy-weight.
• Wood can decay.

Preference

There is a bed frame for every person. No matter how we compare them, it all depends on your own choice and taste. Some people like the coziness and warmth of the wood, while others favor the firmness of the metallic foundation. 

Trust what you value most, to choose the perfect frame for you. Wood is an ideal selection for sturdiness, design, and quiet ambiance. Metal frames are affordable, adjustable and easy to maintain. Keep these factors in mind, to make an informed consumer decision for your needs. 

And don’t forget: “A long sleep and a good laugh are the two best cures for anything” according to an Irish proverb.