How to Use a Bed Frame with an Adjustable Base

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. 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 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.

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 separate 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 not out of luck. Although the GhostBed Adjustable Base won't work for you, look for an adjustable base elsewhere that's described as "zero clearance." A zero clearance adjustable bed frame will allow you to remove the legs and place it directly on top of a solid base. The GhostBed Adjustable Base is not 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 for you. 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: 14” from floor to top of base
• With 8” legs: 10” from floor to top of base
• With 4” legs: 6” from floor to top of 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.

Can I Use a Bed Frame to Hide an Adjustable Base?

You sure can! Effectively "hide" your base by surrounding it with a beautiful bed frame of your choice.

Can I Use a Separate Headboard with an Adjustable Base?

Yup! You can easily add a headboard if your bed frame doesn't have one attached. Just grab our universal Headboard Brackets at check-out and you'll have everything you need.

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!

Adjustable Base Combo Bundle

Your choice of GhostBed mattress & our luxury adjustable base, all at an affordable price.

Shop Now