Modern Use for Antique Beds

Box springs and mattresses in king or queen sizes are no longer used against antique beds. Most people now prefer standard sizes, whether it’s a queen or king size, or the older standard, double, or full size.

Sizes Vary

In the past century, Antique Bed Mattress and bed sizes were not important. You could make your bed any size you like, and add feather or home-made mattresses to it. Also, the bed height was much lower. In the 1980’s, bed manufacturing began and standard full- or double-sized beds were created. They measured in at 72 inches by 52 inches. Antique dealers called these beds the “three-quarter” bed because they were smaller than double-sized beds. However, their sizes were varied and they had different sizes. European versions were constructed with a precise measurement and dimension.

Solving the Problem through Conversions

Most carpenters and homeowners face the challenge of enlarging antique beds to make them compatible with modern sizes. They must ensure that the bed’s proportions are maintained and the appearance of the room is not altered when adjusting its size. This is what cabinet makers refer to as “conversion”. This is accomplished by using standard brown steel rails of any length. Bolts attach the rails to the headboard. This should ensure a secure and strong hold. A piece of wood can be added if the bolts don’t fit. The foot-board is covered with a rugged steel plate and bolts are used to weld it. This secures the steel rails and makes them invisible from the outside. Now the bed is ready to be used. You can remove the bolts and nuts later.

You can use the thickness of springs or mattresses to make the bed fit into the antique bed frames. Many stores sell very thick mattresses or “pillow-top”, which would make the bed too tall for the frame. This would take up a lot of headboard space. This problem can be solved by using thinner springs and mattresses.

Measure a point at the end of the steel railing to determine the length you want before ordering a mattress. You can have both an antique and modern bedroom if you plan your mattress frame and bed frame carefully.