Waterbed frames are usually steel or timber construction and generally consist of a head, footer and side rails. Frames of steel construction tend to be more durable than the timber frames and have the benefit of being available in a far wider range of styles than their wooden counterparts.
For larger size beds such as king and queen size, frames may be accompanied by a central support rail.
There are generally two types of waterbed requiring different frames. These are the soft side and hardside waterbed. The hardside waterbed frames tends to derive its name from the timber box frame the mattress is placed within to maintain the mattresses shape. The box frame is often accompanied by underslung storage draws. The soft side waterbed generally consists of a mattress encased in a foam casing that maintains the waterbeds shape. The mattress is often placed on a steel or timber frame. In both cases, the frames are required to be exceptionally sturdy to cope with the weight of the waterbed mattress.
The type of frame used on your waterbed will impact on your choice of sheets. Soft sided waterbeds allow for the use of sheets with elasticated corners. These sheets are easy and convenient to use when it comes to changing the sheets on your waterbed. Hardside waterbeds tend to require pocketed sheets, with pockets on the corners of the sheets which allow for the sheet to be placed securely under the corners of the bed. These sheets can be a bit of a game to change.
If you have an existing mattress and you need to change the frame be sure to consult the frame manufacturers. The weight of your filled waterbed mattress may limit the choice and design of frames you can use. The internet offers a great way to contact manufacturers, and if you can tell the manufacturers the depth, length and width of your mattress they can often advise whether one of their frames will be suitable.
When buying wooden or steel waterbed frames bear in mind that a more expensive and sturdy frame will often last longer and if you approach a manufacturer or dealer nline you may be able to get special deals on accessories and consumables if you buy at the same time as you buy your waterbed frame.