How to Use a Bed Frame with an Adjustable Base

Last Updated on June 24, 2022

Thinking about finally upgrading to an adjustable bed? With all of 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. In this article, we'll share everything you need to know.

Overview: Pairing a Bed Frame with an Adjustable Base

There are two main types of bed frames: panel and platform. If you want to use a bed frame with an adjustable base, keep these tips in mind:

Adjustable bases work well with most traditional bed frames. You can drop your base right into the bed frame as long as you're able to remove any panels or slats in the middle.
If your frame features a solid surface in the middle—or panels or slats that you can't remove—you will need to find an adjustable base with “zero clearance.”

Couple sleeping on a GhostBed Split King Adjustable Bed Base

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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 two most common types of bed frames are “panel” frames and “platform” frames. 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 meant to support your mattress directly. Some platform beds also include storage solutions or drawers, which can be a great way to 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 laid. 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!

Pulling It All Together

Ready to build your bedroom with GhostBed? Our luxury Adjustable Base works with mattresses of all types, including the entire GhostBed collection. Plus, you can bundle your order to save big.

Questions? Our Sleep Experts are ready to help with any other questions you might have!

Split King GhostBed 3D Matrix mattress on an Adjustable Base

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Marc Werner

Founder - GhostBed

After undergoing three neck surgeries, Marc knew what it was like to live and sleep in constant pain. In 2001, after searching fruitlessly for a comfortable pillow and mattress that supported his neck and back ... Learn More

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