Shopping for a bed frame for a heavy person?
You are in the right place.
Every mattress needs a sturdy bed frame for proper support.
However, finding the right bed frame can be challenging for heavier people.
Even in king and queen sizes, most beds are not built to take the weight of heavy people.
To help you out, we have scoured the market to find the best heavy-duty, high-capacity, and super sturdy bed frames currently available on the market.
What’s In This Buying Guide
In this guide, we compare and review the best bed frames for a heavy person.
We discuss their best features, specifications, and pros and cons so you can choose one that best fits your needs.
We also explain the features you should look for when buying a bed frame for a heavy person.
Finally, we answer commonly-asked questions about bed frames for bigger-framed folks.
If you are in the market for a mattress, then check out our recently-updated roundup of the best mattresses for heavier people.
Best Bed Frames for a Heavy Person
- Best 18-inch Bed Frame: Olee Sleep Heavy–Duty Bed Frame
- Best 16-inch Bed Frame: TATAGO Heavy-Duty Metal Platform
- Best 14-inch Bed Frame: Zinus Platform Metal Bed Frame
- Bed Frame with Highest Weight Capacity: 45MinST Reinforced Platform
- Best Foldable Bed Frame: Classic Brands Hercules Metal Bed Frame
- Editor’s Choice: Knickerbocker Embrace Bed Frame
Disclaimer: All links below go to Amazon.com
| Product | Award | Maximum Weight Capacity | Frame Material | Assembled Height | Underneath Clearance | Size Options | Number of Legs | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Olee Sleep Heavy-Duty Bed Frame | Best 18-inch Bed Frame | 2000 pounds | Steel | 18 inches | 16.5 inches | 5 – Full, Twin, Queen, King, and California King | 9 | 5-year limited warranty |
TATAGO Heavy-Duty Metal Platform  | Best 16-inch Bed Frame | 3,500 pounds | Steel Alloy | 16 inches | 14 inches | 6 - Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King | 9 | Lifetime Warranty |
Zinus Platform Metal Bed Frame  | Best 14-inch Bed Frame | 700 pounds | Steel frame Wooden slats Upholstered Headboard | 14 inches | 12 inches | 4 – Twin, Full, Queen, and King | 5 | 5-year worry-free warranty |
45MinST Reinforced Platform Bed Frame | Bed Frame with Highest Weight Capacity | 3500 pounds | Steel | 14 inches | 11.6 inches | 6 – Full, Twin, Twin XL, Queen, King, and California King | 9 | 5-year worry-free warranty |
Classic Brands Hercules Metal Bed Frame | Best Foldable Bed Frame | 2,400 pounds | Steel | 14 inches | 13 inches | 7 - Twin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, King, California King | 12 | 3-year worry-free warranty |
Knickerbocker Embrace Bed Frame | Editor’s Choice | 2,000 pounds | Wood, Resin, and Steel | 7.5 inches | Not Specified | 5 – Twin, Full, Queen, King and California King | 7 | Lifetime Limited Warranty |
1. Best 18-inch Bed Frame: Olee Sleep Heavy-Duty Bed Frame
The Olee Sleep Heavy-Duty Bed Frame stands tall at 18 inches. It is higher than most other models that have an average height of 14 inches.
The Olee bed is a heavy-duty metal frame made of steel for added durability. For additional support, it boasts 9 legs that enable it to withstand a weight of up to 2,000 pounds.
It is available in 5 different sizes, each designed to support specific mattress sizes. It also comes with 5-year warranty coverage, so you won’t have to worry about it giving away anytime soon.
Pros
- Suitable for all types of mattresses
- Compared to standard heights, its taller design offers more storage space underneath
- Durable steel construction
- All the assembly hardware and tools are included
- Eliminates the need for a box spring mattress
Cons
- Needs a layer on top for better support to the mattress
- Lacks written assembly instructions
Our Review
The heavy-duty construction and sturdy steel slats of the Olee bed frame make it an excellent choice for a heavy person. The durable frame is made of top-of-the-line steel and stands on a reinforced leg structure for optimum support.
It works well with all mattress types, from a comfortable memory foam mattress to a heavy latex mattress.
The frame itself is 18 inches tall, so there is no need to place a box spring mattress underneath. Plus, the added height means you have an ample amount of storage space underneath the bed.
And while the Olee Bed comes without written installation instructions, the pictograph is easy to understand with letter cross-referencing the parts card.
The assembly is pretty easy, partly because you don’t have to make additional purchases. The bed comes complete with an Allen wrench and a nut wrench for easy assembly.
2. Best 16-inch Bed Frame: TATAGO Heavy-Duty Metal Platform
TATAGO Heavy-Duty Metal Platform is a sturdy metal bed frame. It stands tall at 16 inches and offers 14 inches of clearance space underneath.
It features a strong steel alloy construction with a wide tubular design and center support. It stands on 9 reinforced legs that provide it greater stability. Plus, it is available in 6 sizes.
Another great aspect about the TATAGO platform is that it comes with lifetime warranty coverage.
Pros
- Legs and slats are made of widened and thickened steel
- Incorporates a deep groove to prevent the mattress from sliding off
- Comes with all the tools, parts, and hardware for installation
- Does not require a box spring mattress
- Black matte spray paint finish makes it suitable for most interiors
Cons
- The instruction manual can be missing at times
- The bottom corners are sharp
Our Review
TATAGO Heavy Duty Metal Platform features a reinforced tubular steel construction that ensures equal weight distribution.
Whether you sleep in the center or the side, the frame stays sturdy, so you won't experience any squeaking or mattress sag.
It has a high weight capacity and can hold up to 3,500 pounds without an issue. One reason for TATAGO's sturdiness is the center support and the well-made horizontal slats.
The TATAGO bed frame rests on 9 legs that are firmly welded for improved security. Each of these legs is incredibly stable and comes with a plastic cap to protect your floor.
It has a total height of 16 inches with 14 inches of clearance space underneath. Assembly is also very easy with foldable parts, included tools and hardware.
3. Best 14-inch Bed Frame: Zinus Platform Metal Bed Frame
The Zinus bed is one of the best full-size bed frames. It is a combination of wood and steel with a gray foam-cushioned upholstered headboard that adds to its appeal. The frame itself is made of sturdy steel, while the horizontal wooden slats prevent sagging.
The design is modern and simple. The frame is 14 inches high, with an ample amount of storage space underneath. It goes with most interior decors and instantly becomes the center of attention with its minimalist appeal. Plus, it is available in 4 sizes.
Pros
- Simple and very easy to assemble
- Comes with extra screws in case you lose any
- Foam cushioned headboard prevents squeaking
- Wooden slats have non-slip tape to hold the mattress
- Sleek and simple design goes with most decors
Cons
- The headboard is a bit low
Our Review
The Zinus Platform Bed features a rigid steel core with plywood slats for added support and stability. It offers a 12-inch clearance under the bed that you can use for storage purposes.
The foam-padded tape on the steel core ensures noiselessness, while a non-slip tape on the wooden slats prevents the mattress from sliding off.
The assembly of the Zinus bed is pretty straightforward. The included instructions are clear enough, and it comes with all the hardware that you need to set it up.
Of course, the most notable feature about this Zinus bed frame is the upholstered headboard that you can recline on to relax or read a book.
The headboard is low in height, but it features foam filling with a gray finish that complements and adds to your room's aesthetic appeal. The bold color does not clash with all the other pieces and makes your bed stand out.
4. Bed Frame with Highest Weight Capacity: 45MinST Reinforced Platform
The 45MinST is an incredibly sturdy bed frame that can hold up to 3,500 pounds. It is made out of 2.4-inch thick steel that makes it virtually indestructible. The 20% thicker steel rods prevent structural twisting under heavy loads.
It features a reinforced leg structure with an integrated steel bar running across the center. The steel slats are also square-shaped to provide better support and extend the mattress’ life expectancy. Together, these features add to its structural stability, making it firm, safe, and noise-free.
Pros
- Thicker steel rods add to its durability
- Reinforced leg design improves stability
- Offers 11.6 inches of storage space underneath
- Plastic protector inserts prevent floor scratching
Cons
- The reinforced structure is quite heavy
- Sharp corners and legs
Our Review
The 45MinST is constructed entirely from heavy-duty steel that gives it both strength and sturdiness. Each bar running through the design is 2.4 inches thick and does not give way under a heavyweight. It has 9 legs in total, each one thoughtfully integrated into the design to improve overall stability.
It features square-shaped metal slats that lie horizontally along the entire length of the frame. In the center is a steel bar that provides better support to your mattress. Meanwhile, 1.4-inch subsidence snugly encloses the mattress to prevent it from wobbling or sliding out as you move.
It is simple to assemble and sits 14 inches off the ground. At this height, it doesn’t require a box spring mattress.
The entire structure is reinforced, making it sturdier, noiseless, shake-proof. The legs are also reinforced to carry heavy loads without bending or twisting.
With metallic furniture, sharp legs scratching the floor is a common concern. But with this frame, you don’t have to worry about that because the legs come with little plastic inserts that protect the floor from scratches.
Lastly, it comes with 5-year warranty coverage, so you can rest easy that your investment won’t go to waste.
5. Best Foldable Bed Frame: Classic Brands Hercules Metal Bed Frame
The Classic Brands Hercules Metal Bed Frame is a foldable platform that works with just about any mattress. It has a height of 14 inches, so you can opt to use it with or without a box spring mattress. It also offers a 13-inch clearance underneath that you can use for storage purposes.
The compact design fits inside a more traditional, decorative bed frame but is good enough to use on its own. It is very stable and supportive with its crisscrossing slats and heavy-duty steel structure held up by 12 legs.
Depending on the size, the Hercules can hold from 1,200 to 2,400 pounds of weight.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to move around
- Can be used with other bed frames for extra support
- Crisscrossing slats prevent the mattress from sagging
- Usable with or without a box spring mattress
- The foldable design does not need any tools to assemble
Cons
- There is no lip or edge to keep the mattress in place
- Diagonal supports cut down on the storage space
Our Review
Classic Brands Hercules is solid, sturdy, and very supportive. Its 2-piece foldable structure comes together with a few bolts secured in place.
The entire unit is made of steel, with thicker metal bars running horizontally from side to side while thinner metal rods run vertically on top. Together, these offer greater support to the mattress even if you place it directly on top of the metal.
You can use the Hercules bed with almost any type of mattress, even a heavy latex one. It does not slack, creak, or sag in any way as long as you don’t exceed the weight limit.
The Hercules bed comes as manageable pieces for easy assembly right out of the box. It comes with the required hardware and does not require any tools.
To top it all off, this Classic Brands Hercules bed comes with 3-year warranty coverage.
6. Editor’s Choice: Knickerbocker Embrace Bed Frame
The Knickerbocker Embrace Bed Frame is one of the sturdiest and supportive bed frames and sits merely 7.5 inches off the ground.
It comes from Knickerbocker’s exclusive line of designer bed frames. It combines beauty with the strength to meet all your demands for a sound, restful sleep.
The Embrace bed frame boasts a sophisticated style with contoured side rails supported by elegantly tapered legs. It looks very modern and luxurious with its low height and beautiful finish.
Available in 5 sizes and 4 color options, you can easily choose one that works for your decor. There are also no sharp edges and legs to look out for. Plus, it comes with a lifetime limited warranty.
Pros
- Durable construction with a smooth finish
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Suitable for all mattress types
- Available in 4 different finishes
- No sharp edges and corners that can hurt you
Cons
- Needs a box spring base mattress to increase the height
- No underneath clearance for storage purposes
Our Review
Knickerbocker Embrace stands out from all the other options on our list because of its resin polymer construction with a steel core. The resin polymer is soft to touch, easy to clean, and overall, pretty hygienic.
There are also no sharp edges, just smooth rounded ones, so there is no chance of you incurring an injury.
The bed frame can hold a weight of up to 2,000 pounds, so you can top it with a couple of mattresses for adequate height and support.
The entire structure rests on 7 tapered legs with 76.25-inch long side rails. These are the longest side rails in the industry and provide extended seat-edge support. They extend towards the foot of your bed and provide a completely stable base for the mattress.
Its resin polymer construction not just renders it sturdy but also contributes to its safety and noiselessness. It absorbs all the contact pressure and acts as a complete sound muffler.
All the side rails are rounded, and the legs are tapered, so there is no risk of injury. It is also suitable for different floor types, with glider feet that make it easy to move on both carpeted and hard wood flooring.
Buying Guide: Bed Frames for Heavy People
What to look for in a Bed Frame for Heavy Person
Choosing a good bed frame for a heavy person isn't necessarily a challenge. It is just like choosing a regular bed frame but with a slightly higher weight capacity.
Don't resort to picking either the most popular, the cheapest, or even the most expensive option. It is a poor strategy to find yourself a reliable bed frame.
Instead, here are some important features to keep an eye out for:
Weight Capacity
Most heavy-duty bed frames can withstand anywhere from 1,000 to 4,000 pounds.
However, when choosing the weight capacity, remember that your mattress weight needs to be factored in, along with the box spring mattress if you will use one, your weight, your partner’s weight, and even any children or pets that may climb into bed with you.
You have to carefully consider all these aspects before settling on a certain bed frame model. Otherwise, you risk your new bed collapsing under all the combined weight.
Mattress Compatibility
There are different types of mattresses and only a few bed frames that accommodate all of them. For example, a memory foam mattress is not compatible with every bed frame.
The key to finding a comfortable sleeping solution for yourself is to purchase a combination that works well.
Practically all bed frames support a traditional box spring mattress. But you should make sure that the bed frame also supports other mattress types, like memory foam, gel, latex, etc., if you’re going to be using those.
If the bed isn’t compatible with the type of mattress you prefer, your mattress won’t be too comfortable or supportive and will become damaged in the long run.
Extra Legs
Depending upon the size of the bed, standard bed frames have 4 to 7 legs. But those designed for heavy people have additional legs, sometimes even 7 or 9, for better support and added strength and stability.
If the model you like lacks additional support legs, it's better to move on to something that is a little more supportive.
Horizontal & Vertical Slats
Bed frames also vary on the types of slats they offer. Some have vertical slats, while others incorporate horizontal ones.
However, you can expect the best support from frames that use both horizontal and vertical slats crisscrossing over each other.
Since crossing slats run in both directions, they offer superior support for both the mattress and the sleeper. The extra material ensures even weight distribution, providing maximum comfort and support.
It is also important to note that many mattresses currently available on the market, including all foam ones, require slats that are no more than 3 inches apart. So, make sure you consider this, too.
Ease of Assembly
With some beds, you only have to put together the parts or unfold the frame. Others may require tools to set them up, but not everyone can sit down on the floor with a sheet of instructions and assemble 20 or more pieces.
And if you are not inclined towards buying a foldable bed frame, it's crucial to choose a model that requires little assembly.
It’s one thing to screw the legs in place, but you shouldn’t have to pull your hair out of frustration trying to set up a mere bed frame.
We believe assembly shouldn’t take more than 20 minutes, so you should look for something like that.
Weight
The weight of the bed frame itself is also an important factor to consider helps you decide how many other components you can add to improve the comfort and aesthetics of your bed. You can choose to include a headboard, footboard, box spring base mattress, and even a canopy.
Woods like pine are lighter, while solid ones like oak weigh more. Most wooden bed frames usually weigh 50 to 200 pounds.
On the other hand, metal frames are sturdier and weigh about 50 to 75 pounds on average.
Durability
Some of the strongest bed frames for heavy people are made entirely of steel. Although you may find some sturdy wooden bed frames targeted towards heavier individuals, you have to be absolutely sure they won’t bend under all the combined weight.
Steel is a heavy-duty metal with a high weight capacity. But that doesn’t mean all-steel bed frames are suitable for heavy people. Some cheaper ones are actually made of thin rods and are more prone to bending.
Although it might cost more, you should look for a durable bed frame that will last long.
Trial Period
Whether you are shopping for a bed frame online or at a brick-and-mortar store, testing it to your satisfaction is not possible.
Sure, you can test it for a bit in a physical store, but lying down for a few minutes cannot compare to sleeping on it throughout the night.
With the trial period, you can test out the bed for an extended period of time to make sure it suits all your needs. Some brands offer a 30-day trial period, while others extend theirs to an entire year.
You can test out the bed within this time frame, and if you are not satisfied, you can simply notify the company, and it will arrange the return or refund.
Warranty
Most bed frame sellers back their products with some sort of warranty. Some offer a 3 to 5-year warranty, while others even offer a lifetime warranty. A longer warranty shows how much trust the manufacturer has in its product.
A long time period to exchange, replace, or have your product repaired also helps ease your conscience about making the purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Metal bed frame better than a wooden one?
Metal is undoubtedly stronger than wood, but wooden ones are thicker and boast better stability systems when it comes to bed frames. They are classic, durable, and look great in almost every bedroom because of their natural aesthetic.
Metal frames, on the other hand, are tough, robust, and long-lasting. They are easy to clean and very quick, and simple to set up.
In short, both have their own attractions, so it really comes down to your own personal preferences, style, and budget.
What type of bed frame is best?
There is no one answer to this question. It varies from person to person as everyone has their own preferences and needs that make a bed frame best for them.
For example, if you love memory foam, a frame made of heavy material such as a platform is the most appropriate choice.
But if you have a latex mattress, your best option would be a bed frame with slats no more than eight inches apart.
Does mattress type affect my choice of a bed frame?
Yes, mattress type plays a huge role in your choice of a bed frame. Mattress manufacturers actually recommend the type of mattress you should use their bed frame with.
For example, a platform bed frame is the best choice for a memory foam mattress, while water beds require a special waterbed frame due to the weight.
Final Verdict: What is the best bed frame for heavy people?
If you want a sturdy model with a high weight capacity, go for the 45MinST Reinforced Platform Bed Frame.
Knickerbocker Embrace Bed Frame is the best choice if you want a modern, low height, and elegant-looking bed frame.
But, if you want a higher bed frame with ample storage space underneath, the Olee Sleep Heavy-Duty Bed Frame is the best option.
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