
14 Feb Selecting the Right Bed Frame Height
While a mattress is one of the single largest factors in a good, healthy night of sleep each evening, it’s not the only such factor. Also at play are several other bed and sleeping accessories and characteristics, and one such area that sleepers must be sure not to overlook is the bed frame.
At 2 Brothers Mattress, we’re happy to offer several bed frame options in addition to our huge selection of new mattress products, adjustable beds and other bedding accessories. There are a few important factors you should be thinking about when it comes to selecting the ideal bed frame for your mattress and bedroom setup, and one of the most important elements here is the height the frame provides. Let’s go over the key variables to think about with regard to the height of your bed frame.
General Bed Frame Height Ranges
Generally speaking, the height of your bed should relate to your overall standing height. The basic idea here is that you shouldn’t have to strain yourself getting into and out of bed, whether we’re talking knee strain from too low a bed or arm and back strain from a bed that’s too high and causes you to have to “climb” to get up onto it.
In most cases with this theme in mind, bed frame height should be at about your knee level when standing, usually anywhere from 16 to 24 inches above the ground. This is a level where you can put both feet on the ground and push off the bed with bent knees, meaning the bed itself will be roughly two feet high.
It’s important to note, though, that this basic theme doesn’t necessarily hold for everyone. Those with significant joint pain issues, such as seniors in some cases, may look to raise the frame somewhat to make it easier to get into and out of bed. There also might be situations where lowering the bed makes more sense for a given physical condition or comfort need.
Frame Type Factors
Here are some popular bed frame types, plus some height-related factors within each that may impact your choice:
- Platform bed: When including mattresses, platform beds are usually about 18 inches high. They are generally not ideal for seniors or those who are taller, as they may require squatting to stand up.
- Traditional bed: These are usually a bit higher frames, around 25 inches from the ground with a box spring under the mattress. These pair well with taller ceilings and a variety of heights.
- Adjustable bed: Adjustable bed bases are generally fairly low, from 12 to 18 inches off the ground in most cases. They’re a preferred option for many who prefer lower heights but also a variety of options.
- Antiques: Older antique beds are often very high off the ground, as much as 36 or even 40 inches in some cases. This can be difficult for some people to get on and off.
Testing Your Mattress
In many cases, the simplest way to test what the ideal bed frame and mattress height will be for you individually is to simply use your current bed setup. Even if it’s not the ideal height, it can give you an idea of what will be.
For starters, sit on the edge of the bed with your legs hanging off in a normal position, with your hind parts right at the edge. If you notice that your knees sink to slightly below your hips, there’s a good chance your bed is too low – you will have to put unnecessary strain on your knees and joints every time you try to get into or out of bed. If you notice your feet dangling over the edge without reaching the floor at all, on the other hand, there’s a good chance the bed is too high. From here, simply measure the level at which you think the bed’s height should reach.
Other Testing Methods
There are also a couple other methods for finding your ideal bed frame and mattress height without using a bed or mattress at all. These include:
- Chair format: Locate a standard dining chair, the kind that’s usually 18 inches in seating height (measure to confirm this). Sit down and stand up from this chair a few times – can you stand up without having to push off the arms of the chair or strain your knees? If so, this is likely a good mattress height for you. If you have trouble, on the other hand, 18 inches may be too low and you could be due for a higher frame.
- Bar stool: If you’re taller and know you’ll likely need a higher frame, perform a similar test using a 24-inch or 30-inch bar stool instead. Check your comfort and how easy it is to get in and out of this seat, plus whether you strain your knees at all.
With the right basic knowledge on bed frames, mattresses and the factors that come into play when selecting each of these items, you should find it much easier to make an informed choice. Doing so can pay serious dividends in terms of higher quality sleep and greater comfort throughout the night for years to come.
For more here, or to learn about any of our mattresses, bed frames or other products and services, speak to our team at 2 Brothers Mattress today.
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