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Timber vs. MDF: Which One is the Better Frame Material for Queen Size Bed?

queen size wooden bed framesource: livingelements.com.au

bed is where you rest after a long day, so you do want something strong and comfy but also nice to look at. But, the bed frame is what gives your bed its structure, and with the right one you get a durable base that lasts for years. 

Before you pick your queen-size wooden bed frame, it’s good to know that bed frames can be made from solid timber and MDF. Timber is a natural wood that is super strong and MDF is a more affordable option, but it’s not as strong as timber. Let’s take a closer look at how these two compare. 

Durability and Longevity: Which One Lasts Longer?

a bed that is queen size
source: nytimes.com

If you want a bed frame that lasts, you have to think about the material. With timber wood and MDF being pretty common, it’s easy to be confused about which one is better. Here is the thing: you want to choose a queen size wooden bed frame that can hold up well even after years of constant use. 

So, when it comes to longevity, timber is definitely a better choice. Timber is a natural solid wood which, if you take care of, can last for decades. Plus, it ages pretty well. Instead of looking old and worn out, over time it gets this nice and classic look. And in case it gets scratched or deleted, you can just sand it down and refinish it.  

MDF or Medium-density Fibreboard consists of compressed wood fibres glued together. It’s more economical but not as tough. If it ever gets wet, it can swell up and get damaged. And once it is damaged, there is really no fixing it. If you’re on a really tight budget, MDF might work for a while. But when to comes to bed frames, it’s better to invest in a timber queen bed frame so you don’t need to replace it every few years. Overall, timber is definitely a better choice when it comes to durability. 

Aesthetics and Style: Which Looks Better?

When it comes to the looks, timber is, hands down, the winner. Real wood just has this natural beauty that really stands out. The grain texture, even the little knots, all add to the bad frame’s appeal. Plus, no timber beds look exactly the same. Timber comes in many different wood types, such as oak, pine and much more, and each one has its own vibe. 

MDF can look nice too, that’s for sure, especially when it is painted. But it’s kind of flat, if that makes sense. There isn’t any natural grain or rich feel to its looks. It’s smooth, but sometimes just looks too plain or artificial. And if it ever chips, you can’t just sand it down like you can with timber. With that said, investing in a wooden queen bed frame made from timber is always a good idea. 

Maintenance and Care: Which is Easier to Maintain?

When it comes to maintenance, both timber and MDF need some care. But compared to MDF, timber is pretty low maintenance. Just keep it clean with dusting or some wood polish now and then, and you’re good. In general, timber is super forgiving. On the other hand, MDF is fine as long as it doesn’t get wet or you accidentally hit it too hard. Because once it does get wet or chipped, you can’t sand it down and repair it. So, if you want something easy to maintain but lasts longer, timber is always a good choice. 

Price Comparison: Which One Is More Budget-Friendly?

Since MDF is a lot more fragile, of course it’s going to be cheaper than timber. But if you’re on a tight budget, MDF can be a great option for at least a few years. So, it might help you save some money upfront. However, if you want to invest your money in something that lasts for a very long time, timber might be a better option for you. Yes, the upfront cost is higher, but if you’re thinking long-term, a timber bed frame is definitely worth the extra cost. 

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

When it comes to which is better for the environment, as long as the wood is harvested responsibly, timber is a better choice because it’s a natural, renewable material. And because it lasts longer, you’re not throwing it out and replacing it as often as with other cheaper alternatives. 

MDF is made from wood fibres, more precisel fibres that come from leftover materials from other wood products. And while all this sounds good, the glue and chemicals used to hold those fibres together are the problematic part. Plus, MDF breaks down faster, which means it ends up in the landfills more often. So, overall, timber would be a better option for the environment, especially if it comes from a sustainable source.  

By Anthony Hendriks

The life of the party, Anthony is always up for spending some time with family and friends, when not blogging of course! Ever since a child, his love for books of mystery, race cars and travelling keeps on growing so it's difficult for him to single out that one all-time favourite hobby. If there's one thing he hates, though, it's having pictures taken but you already guessed that from his choice of plant photo for the blog.