How to Choose the Right Bed Frame Size for Your Bedroom

Selecting the right bed frame size is one of the most important decisions you'll make when furnishing your bedroom. A frame that's too large can make your room feel cramped and difficult to navigate, while one that's too small might leave you feeling confined during sleep. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to consider when choosing the perfect bed frame size for your Australian home.

Understanding Australian Bed Frame Sizes

Before diving into how to choose your size, it's essential to understand the standard bed frame dimensions available in Australia. Unlike some other countries, Australia has its own sizing standards that differ slightly from American or European measurements.

These dimensions represent the mattress size, but remember that bed frames are typically 5-10 centimetres larger on each side to accommodate the frame structure, headboard, and footboard. Always check the actual frame dimensions before purchasing.

Measuring Your Bedroom Space

The first step in choosing the right bed frame size is accurately measuring your bedroom. Grab a tape measure and note down the following measurements:

• Room length and width: Measure wall to wall, including any alcoves or unusual shapes
• Door swing clearance: Ensure your bed won't block doors from opening fully
• Window positions: Note where windows are located to avoid blocking natural light
• Built-in wardrobes or cupboards: Account for door clearance on any built-in furniture
• Power point locations: You'll want accessible outlets for bedside lamps

The 60cm Rule

Interior designers recommend maintaining at least 60 centimetres of clearance on each side of the bed where you need to walk. This space allows comfortable movement around the room and makes bed-making much easier. For the foot of the bed, aim for at least 90 centimetres to allow for a clear walkway.

Choosing Size Based on Sleeper Needs

Beyond room dimensions, consider who will be sleeping in the bed and their specific needs:

For Single Sleepers

If you're furnishing a room for one person, a single or king single might seem like the obvious choice. However, many adults find a double or even queen more comfortable for stretching out. Consider the sleeper's height—anyone over 180cm will appreciate the extra length of a king single (203cm) over a standard single (187cm).

For Couples

Couples should seriously consider a queen or king size. While a double bed can technically fit two people, it only provides about 69cm of width per person—less than a single bed offers. A queen provides a more comfortable 76.5cm per person, while a king offers a generous 91.5cm each.

For Families with Young Children

If you have young children who occasionally sleep in your bed, a king size provides the extra space needed for those middle-of-the-night visits without everyone feeling cramped. This consideration is often overlooked but can significantly impact sleep quality for the whole family.

Room Size Guidelines

To help you visualise what size bed frame will work in your space, here are general room size recommendations:

• Single bed: Minimum room size of 2.4m × 3m (7.2 square metres)
• King Single: Minimum room size of 2.7m × 3m (8.1 square metres)
• Double bed: Minimum room size of 3m × 3m (9 square metres)
• Queen bed: Minimum room size of 3m × 3.6m (10.8 square metres)
• King bed: Minimum room size of 3.6m × 3.6m (12.96 square metres)

Consider Your Other Furniture

Your bed frame doesn't exist in isolation. Consider what other furniture you need in the bedroom and how it will all fit together. Essential items to account for include:

• Bedside tables on one or both sides
• A chest of drawers or tallboy
• A wardrobe (if not built-in)
• A desk or vanity (if needed)
• A reading chair or ottoman

Create a simple floor plan sketch showing all furniture pieces before committing to a bed frame size. This visual representation often reveals space constraints that aren't immediately obvious.

Headboard and Footboard Considerations

Don't forget that headboards and footboards add to the overall frame dimensions. A platform bed without these features will have a smaller footprint than a traditional frame with a substantial headboard. Some headboards can add 10-20cm to the bed's length, which might be the difference between fitting comfortably in your room or feeling cramped.

Low-Profile vs. Traditional Frames

The visual impact of your bed frame also matters. Low-profile platform beds tend to make rooms feel more spacious and modern, while traditional frames with tall headboards can dominate a room. In smaller bedrooms, a minimalist frame design can help maintain an open, airy feeling even with a larger mattress size.

Future-Proofing Your Purchase

When choosing a bed frame size, think about your future needs. Are you planning to move to a larger home? Might your relationship status change? Will children eventually need the room? Investing in a quality bed frame is a long-term decision, so consider how your needs might evolve over the next 5-10 years.

Making Your Final Decision

After considering all these factors, you should have a clear idea of which bed frame size suits your needs. Remember that while it's tempting to go as large as possible, the best choice is one that provides comfortable sleep while maintaining a functional, aesthetically pleasing bedroom space.

If you're still unsure, our bed frame quiz can help narrow down your options based on your specific requirements. You can also compare different products to find the perfect frame for your bedroom.