The Ultimate Checklist for Buying a Custom Bed Frame

Investing in a custom, solid wood bed frame is about more than just having a place to sleep. It is about creating a sanctuary, investing in an heirloom piece, and ensuring you get the best possible night's rest for decades to come.

But when you are commissioning a bespoke piece of furniture, the sheer number of options can feel a bit overwhelming. Because it is being built just for you, you have the power to dictate the details!

To help you navigate the process, we have put together the ultimate buyer's checklist of exactly what to look for - and what to ask your furniture maker - when designing your custom bed frame.

1. Measurements That Matter (Beyond the Mattress)

You already know you need a frame that fits your mattress size (Double, King, Super King, etc.), but custom beds allow you to tweak the dimensions to fit your exact lifestyle and room constraints.

• Footend Height: Do you like the look of a high footboard to anchor the room, or do you need a lower footend (around 28–30 cm) to make a smaller room feel more open and prevent bumped shins?

• Headboard Height: Consider the thickness of your mattress plus any mattress toppers. You want to ensure the headboard is still visible and proportional once the bed is fully made. Also, check your room for low windows or angled ceilings.

• Under-Bed Clearance: If you plan to store boxes underneath, measure them first. Let your maker know if you need specific clearance or if you prefer a low-profile platform look.

• Overall Footprint: Solid wood frames often have a larger footprint than cheap metal frames. Ensure you have enough walking space around the edges of the bed in your bedroom.

  
  

2. Wood Durability and Aesthetics

The type of wood you choose dictates not only the colour and style of your bed but also its longevity.

• Hardwoods : These are the gold standard for bed frames. They are incredibly durable, resistant to dings and scratches, and boast beautiful, rich grain patterns. Walnut offers a luxurious dark tone, while oak provides a timeless, versatile look.

• Softwoods : While more budget-friendly and great for a rustic aesthetic, softwoods are more prone to dents over time.

• Finish: Ask about the finish. Natural oils highlight the wood's organic beauty and are easy to touch up at home, whereas lacquers offer a harder protective seal.

  
  

3. Slat Types and Mattress Support

The base of your bed is just as important as the frame itself. The right slats will prolong the life of your mattress and give you better support.

• Heavy-Duty Solid Slats: We use incredibly heavy-duty, rigid timber slats that provide a firm, highly supportive base to prolong the life of your mattress.

• Slat Spacing & Custom Spacers: Proper spacing is crucial! Most premium mattress warranties require slats to be no more than 7 cm (about 2.75 inches) apart to prevent sagging. To guarantee perfect placement every time, we include custom spacers in your assembly kit so you don't even have to think about the measurements.

  
  

4. Craftsmanship and Joinery

You are buying custom to avoid the squeaks and wobbles of flat-pack furniture. Here is how we ensure your bed is built to last and easy to set up.

• Centre Support: Because we use such heavy-duty slats, most of our designs don't actually require a centre support rail! However, our Super King frames come with a centre rail included as standard. If you are ordering a smaller bed and would still like a centre rail for peace of mind, we are happy to offer them as an optional add-on upon request.

• Stress-Free Assembly: High-quality custom beds shouldn't require a degree in engineering to put together. Your bed will arrive with the headboard and footboard already fully assembled. All you need to do is attach the side rails and your slats.

• The Assembly Kit: Every bed arrives with a dedicated kit that includes step-by-step instructions, your custom slat spacers, and the heavy-duty hardware needed to seamlessly lock your frame together.