Platform beds are low-profile bed frames with a minimalistic and modern look. They eliminate the need for a box spring, making them affordable and cost-effective. But since platform beds are so close to the ground, will they wreak havoc on your back?
Platform beds are not bad for your back; instead, back pain is usually related to the quality of your mattress. A platform bed can actually support your back indirectly by providing an ideal base for your mattress. Platform beds are a popular choice because they’re cost-effective, durable, and compatible with most types of mattresses.
What Is A Platform Bed?
A platform bed is a bed frame with an extremely low profile. A platform bed also functions as a bed base. This is similar to the way box springs work as a bed base for traditional beds. Platform beds typically have solid or slatted surfaces for mattress support.
Most platform beds are only five inches to one foot tall without a mattress. With a mattress, their average height is about 18 inches, or a foot and a half. Often, platform beds are much more affordable than other bed frames. This is because they work as both a frame and a base.
Platform beds come in a variety of styles, from headboards and footboards to upholstered variations. Storage drawers and other storage solutions are often a component of this type of bed. For this reason, you’ll often see platform beds in small rooms and studio apartments.
Pros Of Platform Beds
Platform beds are inexpensive and cost-effective. They double as both a bed base and a bed frame, eliminating the need for a box spring. However, you can still choose to use a box spring with a platform bed for added height.
Storage Solutions
In many cases, platform beds feature storage solutions like drawers and cupboards. This makes them a great choice for areas with limited space. Plus, their minimalistic and modern look makes platform beds an easy choice as an interior design component.
Many Types And Styles
Platform beds are compatible with most mattress types. They come in a vast array of styles, so you can choose one that fits your preferences and personality.
Comfortable
Not only are platform beds comfortable, but they also provide plenty of ventilation for your mattress. The flat, firm structure of a platform bed makes it the ideal base for most types of mattresses. Built-in ventilation features like small holes and spaces between slats are vastly beneficial as well.
Easy Assembly
One of the best characteristics of platform beds is that they’re easy and quick to put together and take apart. They tend to be much simpler than other types of beds when it comes to construction.
Cons Of Platform Beds
Even with so many benefits, there are still a few drawbacks to consider. For example, the low profile of a platform bed can be a polarizing characteristic. Many people either love it or hate it.
Extremely Low Profile
Some say a low profile makes it easier to get in and out of bed, especially for the elderly. However, others argue low platform beds can make it more difficult. If you struggle to get into or out of your platform bed, one option is to add a box spring.
Potential Pressure Points
Platform beds also tend to be harder to move than traditional beds. Another potential negative characteristic of platform beds is that they can be prone to pressure points. This means there may be areas of the bed that feel harder due to the firm surface of the platform.
Are Platform Beds Bad For Your Back?
Platform beds are not bad for your back. In fact, they support your back indirectly by providing a stable base for your mattress. What really determines whether you have back pain or not is the quality of your mattress.
It’s important to choose a high-quality mattress. Not only will it make a huge difference in potential back pain, but it will also improve your sleep. Sleeping on an old, worn-out mattress is bound to make anyone’s back hurt, regardless of age!
One possible issue with platform beds is that some elderly people may find it difficult to get up from them. Opinions are mixed on whether older people find lower beds or higher beds easier to get out of. Because platform beds are so low to the ground, it’s possible to strain your knees or back in the process. In most cases, though, platform beds are not bad for your back.
What Is The Best Type Of Mattress For A Platform Bed?
You can use nearly any mattress of your choice with a platform bed! But what kinds of mattresses are most commonly used with this type of bed frame? The top four include memory foam mattresses, latex mattresses, innerspring mattresses, and hybrid mattresses.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Many people turn to memory foam mattresses as their top choice. These comfortable, supportive mattresses conform to your body and offer optimal pressure relief. They’re also durable in comparison to many kinds of mattresses, lasting eight years or more in most cases.
The ideal type of platform bed for a memory foam mattress is a slatted one. Slatted platform beds are perfect for both the support and ventilation of your memory foam mattress.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses are pretty similar to memory foam mattresses in a couple of ways. Latex is also long-lasting and durable, but unlike memory foam, it’s much firmer. People who prefer harder beds often like latex mattresses.
A benefit of latex mattresses is that they’re hypoallergenic. If you prefer that your mattress is chemical-free, you can opt for a natural latex mattress.
One thing to note regarding latex mattresses is that they can be very heavy. For this reason, they should be used on platform beds with high weight capacities. A slatted platform bed with slats no more than four inches apart should work well.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses feature inner coils that provide great airflow and make the mattress very bouncy. For those who tend to get hot while sleeping, innerspring mattresses are an awesome choice. The downside of innerspring mattresses is that they don’t last as long as other mattresses, around six years on average.
Another note is that if you’re looking for support and pressure relief, an innerspring mattress likely isn’t the best choice.
Using an innerspring mattress with a platform bed is usually just fine. Still, you should always double-check that it’s designed for that purpose. Also, check your warranty to be sure that using your innerspring mattress with a platform bed won’t void it.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses are essentially a combination of two mattress types, usually memory foam and innerspring.
Combining the characteristics of an innerspring mattress with a memory foam mattress gives you a great balance between support and firmness. Hybrid mattresses typically work well when paired with platform beds.
Related Questions
Are platform beds good for seniors?
Platform beds can be a good choice for seniors because they’re easy for most people to get in and out of. They also support all mattress types, including specialty orthopedic mattresses.
Are platform beds in style?
Platform beds have been steadily rising in popularity lately. They’re great for rooms with a minimalist or modern design scheme.
Are platform beds too low?
Most platform beds are about 18 inches or a foot and a half tall, including the mattress. This means the bed will come up to your upper shin area. Some people prefer this lower height, while others maintain that it’s too low for their taste. It’s really a matter of opinion!
