Is there anything better than a new bed? There’s something special (and exciting!) about sleeping in a brand new bed. And even if the whole bed isn’t new, a new headboard is still something to celebrate - it is the year of the headboard after all! After your bedding, the headboard is the main style element of your bed, so a new one can give your bedroom a simple but effective makeover.
Headboards are also practical, of course. They can add comfort and support, helping you get the good night’s sleep you deserve.
But now onto the main question - how do you attach a headboard to a bed frame? If you’re attaching a headboard to a metal frame, platform, or other type of bed, you can learn what you need to know in our handy guide.
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Choosing the right headboard
This first step may seem obvious, but before you can install your headboard, you need to choose the right one! This means choosing a style that's right for your bedroom, and one that fits your bed frame. While most headboards are designed to fit standard bed sizes, some elements, like the attachment method and height, can vary, so you need to make sure that the headboard is right for your bed.
Size
When it comes to headboards, size matters. Single, queen, and king-size beds need different headboard widths. If you choose the wrong one, your bed could be unbalanced, or you may not be able to install the headboard at all.
Style
The next step is to choose your style of headboard. The wrong one could be uncomfortable or clash with your decor. Upholstered headboards are very popular if you want a soft and comfortable feel, and are great if you like to read or watch TV in bed. For something a little more rustic, consider a wooden headboard instead. Another option is a metal headboard, which can give a more retro or industrial feel if your decor is a little more minimalist.
Height
Finally, consider the height of your headboard. An extended headboard can fill a large bedroom, adding a touch of luxury. If you live in a smaller space, you should choose something more proportional to avoid the headboard dominating the room.
A little research can help you find your dream headboard. Get the measurements right, then consider other details to choose the right headboard for your needs.
Can you attach any headboard to a bed frame?
In reality, no. Headboards aren’t universal, and while you can adapt many styles to your bed frame, you might need to make some adjustments or buy some different hardware.
For most headboards, it depends on the type of bed. A metal bed frame, for example, will have pre-drilled holes for mounting, and others may have a slot mechanism.
Even if your bed frame doesn’t have the right attachment points, you can still make it work. A wall-mounted headboard can be secured directly behind the bed for an easier fit, and a freestanding headboard won’t need to be bolted to the bed at all.
Check the dimensions, mounting style and hardware requirements to help avoid installation frustration later on.
Key tip: Measure before you buy
We can’t stress how important it is to measure your bed. It’s easy to assume that every Queen or King bed will have the exact same mounting requirements. But all manufacturers like to put their spin on things, so you could find your bed frame is a little different. Before you buy your headboard, measure the width of the bed frame and check the distance between the mounting holes to help you avoid any issues with installing your headboard.
What you’ll need before you start
When you’re ready to install your headboard, you’ll need to gather everything you need first. With the right materials, it shouldn’t take more than an hour to get your headboard in place.
Most headboards come with the installation hardware you need, but you may need to source some additional items to install successfully. Here are some of the basic tools and materials you may need to fit your headboard:
- The headboard
- Bed frame
- Mounting bolts
- Washers and nuts
- Allen wrench or an adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Tape measure
- Level
- Adapter brackets
Make sure you’ve got enough space to help you access the back of the frame. Moving the bed away from the wall should give you some room to help you install things correctly.
If your headboard is particularly large or heavy, get another person to help you with the installation. This can help you avoid injuries, as well as prevent damage to the headboard, bed and walls.
How to attach a headboard to a bed frame: Step-by-step
Once you’ve got the headboard, tools, and fixings in place, you can start the installation. Follow our step-by-step guide to guide you through it:
Step 1: Move the bed away from the wall
First things first, you need to move the bed. Move the bed frame away from the wall to give you the space you need to get to work. You’ll need to access the back of the bed frame to help you line up the mounting holes and hardware.
You may need some help moving the bed if it’s particularly heavy.
Step 2: Locate the mounting holes
Most bed frames will have pre-drilled holes or slots near the head of the bed to allow a headboard to be attached. You’ll usually find them on the vertical legs or brackets of the frame.
Check each side to locate the holes and check there’s no packaging, covers or caps preventing installation. If your bed frame lacks mounting holes, you may need to use some adapter brackets or wall-mount your headboard instead.
Step 3: Align the headboard legs
Place the headboard behind the bed frame and line up the legs or mounting struts with the holes on the frame. Depending on the size and weight of the headboard, you may need to have someone else hold it upright to align it properly.
Step 4: Insert the bolts and washers
Once you’ve aligned the headboard, you can slide the bolts through the mounting holes and attach the washers and nuts on the opposite side. The washers will distribute the pressure evenly, which will help prevent damage to the frame and the headboard.
Tighten the bolts loosely for now, so you can make adjustments as needed to the alignment.
Step 5: Tighten the hardware
Carefully line up your headboard, ensuring it is level. You can use a spirit level to check this. Using the appropriate wrench, you can then tighten all of the hardware. Alternate between each side to help you keep the headboard level.
Try not to overtighten the bolts, as this could cause damage to an upholstered or wooden headboard.
Step 6: Check the alignment and stability
Take some steps back to make sure the headboard is both centered and level with the bed frame. Gently shake it to check there’s no wobble or movement. If your headboard feels loose, tighten the hardware slightly and check that all washers and bolts have been installed correctly.
Step 7: Adjust the bed position and style your bed
Once you’re happy with how things look, you can move the bed back into place. You can then have some fun dressing your bed how you like it with pillows, bedding, and accessories to finish the look.
How to attach different types of headboards
As we’ve discussed already, not all headboards are installed the same way. It can depend on the type of headboard you choose, as well as your bed frame. If your headboard is different from the standard type, the following tips can help you install it.
Attaching a headboard to a metal frame
Metal bed frames are usually the easiest type of bed to install a headboard on, as they often include pre-drilled mounting holes. Our step-by-step guide above can guide you through the process.
Attaching a headboard to a platform bed
Many platform beds include built-in headboards, while others require separate mounting brackets. Provided your bed frame has some attachment points, you’ll be able to follow the same steps as a standard bed frame.
Platform beds without mounting holes will need universal adapter brackets to connect the headboard securely. The manufacturer should provide instructions on how to install the headboard or the type of hardware needed.
Installing a wall-mounted headboard
A wall-mounted headboard is attached directly to the wall rather than the bed frame. This can make installation easier if your bed doesn’t have mounting holes. They create a clean look that can work well with floating bed designs and minimalist bedroom styles.
The headboard needs to be anchored carefully to wall studs or appropriate wall anchors. Ensure you measure your space carefully to make sure the headboard is the correct height above the mattress.
Using a freestanding headboard
A freestanding headboard doesn’t need to be bolted to the bed frame or wall. It sits between the bed and the wall, with the bed helping to keep the headboard upright. These headboards can be larger, often making a statement that looks striking in a larger bedroom.
See our comparison table to help you work out which installation method to use for your headboard:
Headboard type | How it attaches | Best for |
Standard headboard | Bolted directly to the bed frame | Traditional bed frames |
Metal frame headboard | Attached using pre-drilled mounting holes | Easy installation |
Platform bed headboard | Mounted using brackets or built-in fixings | Modern bedrooms |
Wall-mounted headboard | Fixes directly to wall studs | Minimalist styles or floating beds |
Freestanding headboard | Positioned between the wall and bed | Statement bedroom styles |
Common headboard installation problems
Learning how to attach a headboard is usually a straightforward process, but some common issues can make the process frustrating. Fortunately, most problems can be overcome with some simple adjustments or the right hardware.
The mounting holes don’t line up
A common problem during headboard installation is that the holes on the headboard don’t align with the bed frame. This can happen if you mix brands or choose a new headboard for an older bed frame.
Adapter brackets can help resolve problems, creating additional mounting points for you. Accurate measurements can help here, preventing compatibility issues.
The headboard is loose
If the headboard is loose or wobbles when you move against it, the hardware may not be fully tightened. Check all of the bolts to make sure they’re even on both sides, and that the headboard is flush against the frame.
The bed frame doesn’t have mounting holes
Some types of beds, such as platform beds, aren’t designed for separate headboards. If your frame doesn’t include mounting brackets, you can make it work. A universal bracket kit can add attachment points, or you could choose a wall-mounted or freestanding headboard without needing to modify the frame.
The headboard is scratching the wall
If your headboard is scratching the wall, either the hardware or heavy movement could be to blame. Using some furniture pads could help prevent scratches and unwanted noise. It’s worth checking the fixings regularly to ensure they remain tight.
Learning how to attach a headboard to a bed frame is a simple way to upgrade the comfort and style of your bedroom. All you need is the right tools, compatible hardware and a little preparation to install a headboard quickly and easily, for a simple but effective upgrade.
FAQs
Are all bed frames compatible with headboards?
Most headboards can be attached to a bed frame, you just need to check the details. If your bed frame has pre-drilled holes, you should be able to install your headboard easily. If your frame doesn’t have attachment holes, you may need to use an adapter bracket or choose a different design - wall-mounted or freestanding headboards are great alternatives.
Do headboards come with mounting hardware?
Most headboards include the relevant bolts and mounting hardware. If not, you can purchase these separately from a hardware store.
Do you need a drill to install a headboard?
No you don’t always need a drill to attach a headboard, unless you’re installing a wall-mounted product. You’ll just need a screwdriver to install the bolts into the pre-drilled mounting holes.
What should you do if your headboard feels loose?
You’ll know if your headboard isn’t quite right if it’s uncomfortable, loose or noisy. Check that all bolts and washers are correctly installed, and add some padding if needed to improve stability and protect your surfaces, as loose headboards can damage walls.