Last Updated on October 19, 2022
by Marc Werner, Founder - GhostBed
Thinking about finally upgrading to an adjustable bed? With all the comfort- and health-boosting benefits, it's a no-brainer to us!
But if you're wondering if you can pair an adjustable with your existing bed frame, you're not alone. It's one of the most common questions we get here at GhostBed. Take a look at the video below, or keep reading to learn everything you need to know.
Will an Adjustable Base Fit Inside My Bed Frame?
To determine if an adjustable bed will fit in your bed frame, you'll need to take a close look at the construction of your frame. The most common bed frames are "panel" and "platform." Both can accommodate an adjustable—as long as a few important conditions are in place.
Can You Use an Adjustable Base with a Panel Bed?
Panel beds provide a four-wall "frame" for your bed and space for a box spring or foundation to support your mattress. Although styles vary by manufacturer, you likely have a panel frame if you see:
- Decorative features like a footboard, headboard, or side rails
- Few or no slats or panels across the middle
Adjustable bases work well with panel frames. If you're considering the GhostBed Adjustable Base, however, you'll need to make sure you can remove any inner panels or slats. Doing so will give you a wide-open area to drop the adjustable straight into the middle of the frame.
Can You Use an Adjustable Base with a Platform Bed?
With a platform bed base, you'll notice closely spaced slats or a solid surface to support your mattress directly. Some platform beds also include storage solutions or drawers, which can greatly maximize space.
The same rule applies here. If you want to use an adjustable base with your platform bed frame, you'll need to remove any solid surface, panels, slats, or drawers in the middle of the frame. Once you've removed them, you can drop the adjustable right in.
Marc's Tip
After you remove the slats on your bed frame, you may see a small lip on the sides where the slats once lay. Don't worry—we've strategically placed the legs of the GhostBed Adjustable Base so that they won't run into the lip when you drop it in.
Adjustable Base & Bed Frame FAQ
Our Sleep Experts get a lot of inquiries about using adjustable bases with bed frames. Read on for some of the most frequently asked questions!
DO I NEED TO USE A BED FRAME WITH MY ADJUSTABLE BASE?
Nope. Using a different bed frame is completely optional. The GhostBed Adjustable Base looks beautiful on its own, but some customers prefer the look of an added bed frame.
WHAT IS A "ZERO CLEARANCE" ADJUSTABLE BED FRAME?
If you love your particular bed frame, but it doesn't allow you to remove the middle surface or slats, you're still in luck. Although the GhostBed Adjustable Base won't work for you, look for an adjustable base elsewhere described as "zero clearance." A zero-clearance adjustable bed frame will allow you to remove the legs and place them directly on top of a solid base. The GhostBed Adjustable Base does not have zero clearance.
DO I NEED A BOX SPRING WITH AN ADJUSTABLE BASE?
Nope! The GhostBed Adjustable Base sits directly underneath your mattress. All you need is your mattress and the base, and you're all set.
DOES THE HEIGHT OF THE BED FRAME MATTER?
If you have an adjustable that requires using the legs, like ours, you'll want to factor in the height of your frame's opening.
The GhostBed Adjustable Base comes with customizable legs, so you can stack or remove pieces to get the best height. Each leg section is 4", giving you a choice of 4", 8", or 12" total height. The base itself will also add a few inches:
- With 12" legs: 15" from floor to top of the base
- With 8" legs: 11" from floor to top of the base
- With 4" legs: 7" from floor to top of the base
CAN I USE A BED FRAME WITH A SPLIT KING ADJUSTABLE BASE?
Absolutely! Pair your split king adjustable with a compatible king-size bed frame for a cohesive look.
