Sleep Health
Published July 30, 2022
6 minPanel Beds vs. Platform Beds: Everything You Need to Know
The bed foundation is what shapes the comfort and feel. Because it takes more than a mattress and the bed size to provide a relaxing and comfortable night, and though both panel and platform beds have
Table of contents
Panel Bed vs Platform Bed: The Difference What Is a Panel Bed What Is a Platform Bed Panel Beds vs. Platform Beds: Which Requires a Box Spring Panel Beds vs. Platform Beds: Which Is a Better Choice Final Thoughts Frequently Asked Questions
The bed foundation is what shapes the comfort and feel. Because it takes more than a mattress and the bed size to provide a relaxing and comfortable night, and though both panel and platform beds have some similarities and differences, the decision goes beyond headboards and bed posts.With that being said, is a panel bed the same as a platform bed? Although panel beds and platform beds share similar designs, ranging from tufted, upholstered, and storage drawers underneath, they also possess many fundamental differences.
Panel Bed vs Platform Bed: The Difference
Panel bed vs platform bed: the potential differences.| Parameters | Panel Bed | Platform Bed |
|---|---|---|
| Style | Traditional aesthetics, Sturdy design, Vintage decor, Extra height, Extra decoration | Contemporary design, Low profile, Modern minimalistic deco |
| Comfort | Panels provide breathability | Strong base providing great mattress support |
| Storage | Ample storage due to high profile framework | Limited space, Mostly comes with storage spaces |
| Room Size | Large rooms due to headboard and footboard presence | Small space can accommodate |
| Mattress Type | Box spring, Innerspring mattress | Memory Foam, Hybrid |
| Price | Around $200 to $1000 | $100 to above $5000 |
What Is a Panel Bed
A panel bed consists of wooden panels or metal bars that help support the box spring and the mattress, hence the term panel. These panels help extend the lifespan of the mattress and the box spring.Usually, the panel beds feature a side railing, an eye-catching large headboard, and a footboard. Most of the time, the panel beds consist of elaborated and traditional designs, which complement conventional or vintage home decor.Panel Bed Construction
A simple explanation of the general panel bed's construction:- The side rails of the panel bed are the frame of the bed.
- The wooden slats or metal bars are attached to the frame with huge gaping. These gapping allows the mattress and the box spring to breathe.
- The panel bed's headboards display an elaborated design or sometimes are upholstered or tufted.
Panel Bed Pros and Cons
Knowledge of the pros and cons of the panel may contribute to the decision-making.Pros
- Comes in various designs and styles, providing a range of options to choose from.
- The added height of the box spring makes it easier to get in and out of bed.
- The box spring increases the mattress's lifespan.
- Provides ample support to the sleeper with the bed frame, box spring, and mattress.
Cons
- Requires box spring which adds to the expenditure.
- Besides the extra cost, the box springs are needed to be flipped, rotated, and later replaced when their springs start losing their bounce.
- Generally comes in traditional style and the same variations, which may not suit the modern decor.
What Is a Platform Bed
A platform bed is a strong-based framework with wood or metal slats or a solid panel. They sometimes come with a headboard or a footboard; besides that, the platform bed frame has a built-in base which requires no box spring.In addition, the platform beds have a simple and sleek design and are lower height-wise, which gives an impression of more free space in a small room. Therefore perfect for minimalists and tiny apartments.Platform Bed Pros and Cons
Following are a few pros and cons of the platform beds.Pros
- Lessen the cost of box spring
- Most designs provide and come with storage spaces underneath, such as drawers.
- Have a variety of contemporary designs.
- The low profile of the frame provides stability.
- Proffer optimal airflow to the mattress.
Cons
- The solid structure of the bed makes it hard to move around.
- The low height of the bed makes it hard to get in and out of bed.
- Wooden platform beds are not sturdy enough to withstand heavier individuals and can fracture over time.
