A popular type of up-scale bed design is a panel bed. It’s technically a type of platform bed, though a bit different in that it has noticeable side rails. Panel beds are mostly characterized by the large panel-based headboard, and sometimes a footboard.

This allows for a good degree of design elements to be worked into the bed and can be crafted to fit with different design aesthetics and overall room looks and tastes. Functionally, however, a panel bed maybe not that dissimilar from most “standard” beds, using a box spring in most cases. Learn more in our guide to panel beds below.

What is a Panel Bed?

As mentioned above, a panel bed is similar to a platform bed, though the frame usually has some side rails on the two length-wise sides. This allows for the use of a box spring and mattress, or, in some cases, just a mattress over slats or a solid base to the bed.

The main features that distinguish a panel bed from other types are the tall, decorated headboard, usually in several panel sections with decorative elements, molding, and similar, along with a similar footboard. The footboard may or may not always be present, as some people prefer panel beds without footboards.

Top Sites to Buy a Panel Bed

Panel beds are often available at bedding and furniture stores. However, in recent years, the trend for many people has been to purchase bed frames and similar bed items, that don’t require trying-out (like a mattress) online. Even mattresses are available online with a free trial and return programs these days. Some of the most popular online retailers, and what they offer in terms of panel beds, are discussed below.

Wayfair

Wayfair is one of the main sources of home furnishing items and furniture in the US today. Their online service has a wide catalog of items, and they offer free shipping on most orders. Everything from bargain furniture to upscale and expensive options is available, so there’s sure to be something to fit almost any design aesthetic and home style.

Amazon

Amazon is a prolific online retailer that offers affordable prices on almost any kind of item you can think of. While their furniture selections are not always as extensive as retailers like Wayfair and IKEA that specialize in furniture, there are still usually several options to be found. Extremely high-end or designer/custom panel beds may not be most easily found at Amazon, but the options they do have are priced to move.

eBay

eBay offers marketplace seller items that are new from major manufacturers, including some furniture and bedding manufacturers and re-sellers. The selection is a bit hit or miss, and you may not necessarily find what you’re looking for, but the prices are usually very affordable. If you don’t have a lot of restrictions on your design aesthetics for a panel bed, eBay is definitely worth a glance, if for no other reason than the prices are so reasonable.

Walmart

Likewise, Walmart doesn’t have the largest selection of panel beds, but the prices are very reasonable. They fall somewhere between eBay/Amazon’s selection and those of more traditional furniture retailers like Wayfair and IKEA.

IKEA

IKEA is solely focused on furniture and home furnishings, so their selection is quite sizable. Their online site offers their full catalog of choices, ranging from very affordable simple designs to more exotic choices. While they still may be below the level of extravagance that some are looking for in a panel bed, their choices will cover the needs of the vast majority of shoppers.