Cheap but not cheap-looking platform beds

January 17, 2023 3:53 PM

I wanted to buy a Thuma or something from Tatami Room but finances will not permit at this point, I don't think. Both are in the 1K-1400 range. I see a ton of platform beds on Amazon that both are cheap and look cheap, and I hate the ones at Ikea. Any suggestions?
posted by less-of-course to Shopping (13 answers total)

Zinus brand beds are sold on Amazon, and have a decently good reputation online. I bought one a few months ago and have been happy so far, but obviously cannot comment on the longevity.
posted by cgg at 4:03 PM on January 17, 2023

If you're in the US, KDFrames are solid wood. They're unfinished but that means you could stain/finish them to match your decor.
posted by foxfirefey at 4:07 PM on January 17, 2023

Not sure where you are located/if shipping costs would push this above your budget, but I've had a platform bed from Gothic Cabinet Craft for, gosh, almost 15 years now. Wide range of finishes available, with or without under-bed drawers.
posted by praemunire at 4:07 PM on January 17, 2023

I've used a Zinus for ... uh, maybe 5 years so far? It's been great: easy to build, durable, inexpensive. I honestly don't see how it could fail me at this point.
posted by aramaic at 4:25 PM on January 17, 2023

+1 Zinus; I have one in my guest bedroom which gets moderate use (typically several days a month).
posted by basalganglia at 4:36 PM on January 17, 2023

Are you at all handy?

Something like this isn't that hard to build (provided you don't worry about rounding the legs).

Otherwise, seconding unfinished assemble-and-paint (or stain) yourself options.
posted by snuffleupagus at 4:37 PM on January 17, 2023

I cannot remember where I saw them recommended (I think it was a review site), but a few years ago I bought a twin platform bed from KD Frames, and I have been quite pleased with it. Honestly, it was shockingly well priced for a sturdy, simple bed. It was easy for me to put together on my own, too.
posted by bluedaisy at 4:38 PM on January 17, 2023

How cheap is cheap? The simplest model from Nomad Furniture is under $500. They’re hand-made. You can get extra slats if you don’t use a box spring.
posted by Comet Bug at 5:45 PM on January 17, 2023

We've had this bed for a couple years. No idea why they covered the frame in the pictures, but customers have photographed it better in Reviews.

Anyway, check Home Depot for options. This headboard could definitely be swapped out, too.
posted by rawralphadawg at 6:39 PM on January 17, 2023

I bought a Zinus as a guest bed and was pleasantly surprised, best flat pack furniture experience I’ve ever had. Sturdy and the instructions/hardware were thoughtfully organized so putting it together was a breeze. We upgraded to a larger size later, my husband went for a slightly cheaper brand on Amazon and the difference in quality was small but noticeable.
posted by music for skeletons at 6:57 PM on January 17, 2023

Another for Zinus....cheap, solid wood, easy to set up, very nice looking, durable. 10/10 no notes.
posted by tristeza at 7:23 PM on January 17, 2023

Thanks, these are all good suggestions. I like the Nomad ones best. Not cheap but like...within reason.
posted by less-of-course at 8:02 PM on January 17, 2023

Depending on where you are, you might want to check Craigslist. I just looked where I am and see a Thuma bed listed for $200. If you're looking for a specific style and willing to wait, you can set an alert and try waiting a couple of weeks. You might even find one that's free.
posted by pinochiette at 6:15 AM on January 18, 2023