Bed Frames: Vocabulary

bed frame:  A bed "frame" fully supports your mattress and box spring.  You will not need a headboard or footboard, though you can attach a headboard, if you want.  Generally, you cannot attach a footboard to a bed frame.

bed rails: The phrase "bed rails" refers to the side rails of your bed. Bed rails are either metal or wood.  Bed rails require a headboard and footboard to support your mattress and box spring.

bolt-on bed rails/frames: The phrase "bolt-on" refers to the manner in which the rails or frame attaches to your headboard or your headboard and footboard.  Bolt-on bed rails and frames attach using long bolts or screws through metal plates. Click here for picture.

bolt-on headboard and footboard: A "bolt-on" headboard or footboard attaches to the side rails via long bolts or screws.

hook-on or hook-in bed rails: The phrase "hook-on" refers to the manner in which the rails attach to your headboard and footboard.  Hook-on bed rails have "hooks" on the end of the rails that slide into the headboard and footboard and usually slip down to lock in place. Click for close-up of a standard bed hook.

hook-on headboard and footboard: A "hook-on" headboard or footboard has slots or holes in which to insert "hook-on" bed rails.  See definition for "hook-on bed rails" above.