What Are Bed Frame Rails?

A bed frame is a simple piece of equipment that holds a mattress and generally a box spring in place. The frame also lifts the bed set off the floor and in some cases may be used to create a platform bed that provides storage beneath. There are a number of different types, and bed frame rails come in an assortment as well. Bed frame rails are available in different sizes and can be made from different materials such as wood or steel.

Many bed frame rails are metal and come in black or brown. Some are available in silver. Wooden bed frame rails may be finished or unfinished. When purchasing unfinished rails, the buyer may have the option of having them painted to match an existing frame. In many cases, the frame will not be visible due to the type of bedding used, so the color may not be that important.

Some bed frame rails will attach and detach very simply while others may require a bit more time and effort to install or remove. Some styles simply hook onto the frame while others are bolted in place. Bed frame rails can be used in different ways. Some simply connect and hold the frame together while others can be used to change the size or shape of the bed frame. A full size bed frame can be adjusted to contain a queen size mattress set by changing the bed frame rails. There are adjustable rails as well, that can be shortened or elongated. There are even options for adding a trundle to an existing bed frame.

Some bed frame rails are also used to add more support. Instead of slipping wooden slats across the frame, additional rails are added to support the center. Support rails may also have legs attached, which can provide better support than slats, because slats can begin to sag after a period of time.

Bed frame rails can also be added for other types of protection. Aside from being used as supports, there are also designs available for use as guard rails. Guard rails can be added to toddler beds and bunk beds as a safety precaution to help keep children from falling out of bed. A bed that is placed against the wall may only require a guard rail to be installed on the open side, while for other settings, it may be best to apply guard rails to both sides.