Bed bugs – they’re a nightmare for any homeowner, but with the right precautions, it’s possible to control and keep them away from you.
The best starting point for protecting your bedroom from bed bugs is to invest in a good mattress cover, followed by a bed frame that helps prevent the pests from getting in.
Although bed frames are not designed specifically to prevent bed bugs, there are some features that can help make your bedroom less attractive to these pests.
How Can a Bed Frame Help Prevent Bed Bug Infestation?
Bed frames are not specifically designed to keep bed bugs out, but having the right frame can help make your bedroom less appealing for them.
While bed bugs are usually known to hitch a ride on furniture and luggage, they can also crawl up walls and get into your bedroom through wall cracks, bed frames, and other structural openings.
In a sense, bed frames act as a barrier between the mattress and surrounding areas of your bedroom, making it more difficult for bed bugs to get into the mattress or hiding places.
A well-built bed frame with slats will provide an extra layer of protection from bed bugs since they won’t be able to crawl up through the cracks.
What Features Should I Look For?
There are also some specific features to look for in a bed frame if you’re trying to prevent bed bugs, such as:
Tightly Fitting Slats or Rails
Bed frames with tightly-spaced slats or rails will make it harder for bed bugs to crawl up and into your mattress.
This is because they won’t be able to fit between the slats or rails, so they’ll have to go around them or find another route inside, which will make it more difficult for them.
Sturdy Materials
Wooden, metal, and plastic bed frames are all good options when it comes to preventing bed bugs.
Sturdy and high-quality materials used on frames mean less chance of bed bugs crawling through the cracks and getting into your mattress. However, when comparing the three materials, we’ve discovered that metal bed frames are far less appealing and attractive to bed bugs than wooden frames.
Also, look for frames with non-removable legs or feet that are pre-assembled, so you don’t have to worry about bed bugs finding their way in through loose screws or other openings.
Height
Getting a bed frame with a taller profile can also help prevent bed bugs from getting into your mattress.
This is because the higher frame will make it harder for them to climb up and get inside, making it difficult for bed bugs to hide in your mattress, pillows, or other bedding.
The Best Bed Frame for Bed Bugs
While the above categories and features are nice to know, there are various types of bed frames available that can help keep your bedroom free from bed bugs.
Our team has considered various factors such as frame material, tightness of slats, and height to narrow down the best bed frames for bed bug prevention. Here are our top picks:
Zinus Metal Bed Frame – Our Top Pick
The ZINUS metal bed frame is designed for maximum quality and comfort. Expertly crafted from robust and durable heavy-duty steel, this bed frame features a 9-leg construction with reinforced steel slats that provide extra stability and support for your mattress.
No box spring is required, providing you with more storage space underneath the bed.
And because this frame doesn’t require a box spring, this means that there is less opportunity for bed bugs to get a foothold on your mattress or in your bedroom.
No box springs mean fewer crevices and cracks for bed bugs to find their way through.
In addition, the recessed legs further promote a sturdy base with no stubbed toes, offering total peace of mind when you rest. Plus, the 12” of under-bed storage is perfect for hiding away extra items for a neat and tidy look.
With easy assembly, this exceptional platform bed frame makes it simpler than ever to enjoy quality sleep night after night.
This reliable metal slat design is suitable for any type of latex, memory foam, or spring mattress and can support up to 700 pounds in weight – perfect even for the most active sleepers! For convenience and comfort, the ZINUS metal bed frame is our top pick.
Pros:
• Durable heavy-duty steel construction
• 9-leg sturdy design for extra stability
• Reinforced steel slats provide additional support for the mattress
• No box spring required, meaning fewer hiding places for pests
• Recessed legs prevent stubbed toes and ensure a sturdy base
• 12” under-bed storage for extra items
• Easy assembly
• Supports up to 700 pounds in weight
Cons:
• No headboard included
Likmio Metal and Wood Bed Frame with Headboard – Runner Up
This exquisite metal bed frame from Likmio is an ideal choice for a comfortable sleep and a stylish look. Constructed from heavy-duty steel slats, this bed frame is highly sturdy and durable, ensuring maximum support for your mattress.
The classic headboard and footboard design add a touch of elegance to any bedroom, making it the perfect choice for those looking for something a bit special.
While headboards may provide bed bugs with an additional place to hide, this one is made from metal, which has been proven to be more resistant to bed bugs than other materials.
The headboard features a unique hollow design that imbues the bed with industrial vibes while still being tasteful enough to fit any space.
The MDF board guarantees plenty of stability and pressure distribution throughout the frame so you can always enjoy a good night’s rest.
The bed comes with 12 inches of under-bed storage, perfect for keeping your linens, duvets, pillows, and other items tucked away neatly.
Its simple assembly instructions were designed with convenience in mind to ensure anyone can assemble it in minutes without needing any tools or special knowledge. As an added bonus, the frame is surprisingly lightweight and easy to move around if needed.
This goes second on our list because of its stylish design, durability, and storage capabilities. With a 12-month warranty, expect impeccable quality and performance, and an amazing customer service experience.
Pros:
• Heavy-duty steel slats provide sturdy support
• Classic headboard adds a touch of elegance to any bedroom
• Metal construction is more resistant to bed bugs than other materials
• MDF board ensures plenty of stability and pressure distribution
• 12 inches of under-bed storage
• Simple assembly instructions
• Lightweight and easy to move
• 12-month warranty
Cons:
• Expensive price tag
Jeoffany Metal Bed Frame With Storage – Quiet and Durable
This metal bed frame is designed with durability and reliability at its forefront, offering steadfast support for up to 3500 lbs.
Its 12-inch clearance beneath the bed provides valuable storage space. Additionally, the headboard-compatible structure allows for the use of a headboard, if desired.
The frame is fitted with anti-scratch gaskets, noise-canceling cushions, and seamless welding to minimize squeaking or other distractions during sleep. If you’re looking for a quiet option that won’t disturb your sleep, this is a great option.
With subtle lines and lovely details that make it easy to match with any bedroom decor, this sturdy yet stylish bed frame is the ideal choice for anyone looking to enhance their sleeping arrangements while maintaining a modern aesthetic.
In terms of bed bug prevention, the metal construction is naturally resistant to bed bugs, meaning you can rest easy without worrying.
Pros:
• Heavy-duty construction supports up to 3500 lbs
• 12” of under bed storage space
• Headboard-compatible structure
• Anti-scratch gaskets, noise-canceling cushions, and seamless welding minimize squeaking or other distractions
• Stylish design matches any bedroom decor
• Metal construction is naturally resistant to bed bugs
Cons:
• No headboard included
• Pricey compared to other options on the market.
Amazon Basics Foldable Bed Frame – Bang for the Buck
Some might not just have the budget to splurge on a bed frame, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want quality. Enter the Amazon Basics Foldable Bed Frame.
This spacious and stylish full-size bunk bed is crafted with solid rubberwood and composites, making it incredibly sturdy and dependable.
It’s perfect for kids or someone who needs to save space. With its foldable design, you can easily store it away when not in use.
Plus, the frame is designed with extra thick slats and a reinforced center beam that supports up to 250 lbs of weight. The rubberwood also ensures maximum durability while being resistant to bed bugs and other pests.
The folding mechanism allows this bunk bed to be easily stored and moved in tight spaces, while also giving you an extra 13 inches of under-bed storage space.
This beautiful piece of furniture will be the perfect addition to any bedroom, as it oozes sophistication and style. Its modern design will add a touch of class to any home and its durable nature ensures that you’ll have a peaceful night’s sleep without worrying about creaky noises.
Whether you’re looking for a classic yet practical bunk bed or just need some extra sleeping space for guests, this frame is the perfect solution.
Pros:
• Solid rubberwood and composites ensure maximum durability
• Supports up to 250 lbs of weight
• Foldable design is perfect for tight spaces
• Extra thick slats and reinforced center beam provide superior stability
• 13 inches of under-bed storage space
• Modern design adds a touch of sophistication to any home
• Resistant to bed bugs and other pests
Cons:
• Assembly required, instructions can be confusing
Assembling Bed Frames for Bed Bug Protection: Extra Tips
Bed bugs can live through almost any type of material, so it’s important to take extra precautions when purchasing and assembling your bed frame.
Here are a few additional tips to ensure you get the best protection against these pesky critters:
Make Sure All Pieces Fit Together Snugly
Ensure there are no gaps between any of the pieces that could allow bed bugs to enter. Look for screws and other fasteners that are tightened securely and use caulk or foam sealant around spaces between joints and seams.
Check For Pest Resistance
Most beds come with a label that states whether they’re pest-resistant or not, so be sure to check this when making your purchase.
Bed frames made from metal and plastic are the most resistant to bed bugs, as they don’t offer any places for them to hide.
Keep Your Bed Frame Dry
Bed bugs thrive in damp and moist environments, so keep your bed frame dry and away from any water sources such as pipes or sinks.
If you must keep your bed frame in a moist area, make sure to regularly inspect it for any signs of bed bugs or other pests.
Best Bed Frame for Bed Bugs: Final Thoughts
Bed bugs are one of the most difficult pests to exterminate, so it’s important to take extra steps when selecting and assembling your bed frame.
While treating your mattress and other fabric items with a bed bug-repellent spray is important, the best way to prevent these critters from infiltrating your home is with an appropriately chosen bed frame.
Metal and plastic frames offer the most protection against bed bugs and are much easier to clean than wooden ones.
Additionally, taking extra precautions when assembling the frame – such as making sure all pieces fit securely and tightly together – will ensure you get the best possible bed bug protection.
At the end of the day, the best bed frame for bed bugs is the one that fits your budget, and aesthetic, and provides the security you need to sleep peacefully.
