Bed Height Dimensions

Frames

• The standard metal frame is approximately 7 1/2 inches tall. The frame is what the box springs sit on, and not all are made of metal. Some frames sit almost directly on the floor, while others are raised to accommodate storage or the user's aesthetic desires for their bedroom. Lower frames, about 4 1/2 inches tall, are commonly used with the taller mattresses such as pillow tops. Despite the variances in frame heights, most still fit the typical headboard -- they most often use the same standard for headboard mounting plates.

Box Springs

• The box springs goes under the mattress and provides the support for the bed. Box springs are named after their rugged outer "box" and the springs within. Not all mattress sets use box springs anymore, but many still do. The typical, or standard, box spring is 8 or 9 inches thick. Again, this varies and some box springs are only 4 inches thick to accommodate thicker mattresses or to showcase decorative headboards.

Mattress

• The mattress is often thought of as the most important aspect of the bed. It provides the sleeping surface and the firmness or softness the user desires. Mattresses also vary more than any other component of the bed, with various materials, designs and features to suit individual sleeping needs. A typical mattress is around 7 to 9 inches thick, but with pillow or other toppers or different materials, these too can range.

Adjusting the Height

• If you would like to raise your bed, purchase pedestals for your bed frame to sit on. Many of these pedestal-type raisers fit on the four posts of your frame and come in various sizes. Higher beds are a quick way to add storage to your bedroom; the added height underneath the bed can fit storage totes or other storage accessories. Some bed frames are designed with cabinets and drawers underneath to suit the needs of those looking for additional storage under the bed.