Before buying a platform bed available in latest trend, save yourself some money now by using these platform-buying tips. Though everybody knows that furniture can differ drastically in quality, few know that not all platform beds are suitable for all mattresses. Actually few platform beds even need extra box springs for support. So before buying a new platform bed ensure you follow these tips and make the proper selection.
The Slats Story Some platform beds have slats or bars to support your mattress and others do not. If you have a memory foam mattress, that look great when used with platform beds, remember that some memory foam mattress warranties are nullified if kept directly on slats. Don’t worry. Just keep a thin layer of plywood or heavy duty cardboard to save your memory foam mattress investment. If you have an inner spring mattress check your mattress warranty or lay down the plywood or cardboard for your safety. This process is simple and will assure maximum life for your mattress.
Some platform beds do not have any slats or platform. The bed manufacturers save money on materials in this manner and force you to go for ugly box spring instead. Box springs are not meant to support your weight without slats and will droop over a period of time. Don’t buy a platform bed without slats or solid platform.
The Wood Story
Most platform beds use particleboard or veneer. Some platform beds are made from heavy duty cardboard covered in veneer. These beds have a lifespan of just few years and must be averted. Ensure the platform bed you go for uses solid wood!
Another common trick used by the platform bed manufacturers is to sell beds with a “mahogany stain” or “oak finish”. It does not imply the bed uses original mahogany or oak, instead the bed has a wood like coloring. So to ensure you get the original material, call up the retailer and ensure that the platform bed bought uses solid wood.
The Construction Story
Wobbly chairs, desks, dressers and beds are all too common. This is mostly due to the fact that they are fixed with nails. Each vibration loosens the nails that cannot be tightened. Furniture fixed with screws is more robust but furniture prepared with mortise and tenon joinery are still stronger. Mortise and tenon construction are just like Lego toys in which an extension of a single piece merges with a corresponding hole in another. Platform beds, which include mortise and tenon joinery will survive for years.