A buyer has countless options when buying a bed frame, some very inexpensive and some quite lavish. An iron bed frame will be on the more expensive end of the spectrum, though it is also one of the more beautiful and distinct options. A buyer will need to be aware of the distinct advantages and disadvantages of an iron bed frame before purchasing, however, as this large investment should not be taken lightly. The buyer should also be aware to the two general types of iron frames; wrought iron and cast iron.
In some cases, cast iron frames are passed off as wrought iron. The way to tell the difference is in the texture: wrought iron, which is supposed to be worked by hand into various curves and arcs, will feature small lines and imperfections from slag, which is a by-product of the ironworking process. A cast iron bed frame generally will not feature such marks. True wrought iron is likely to be exceptionally expensive because it handcrafted and less common than in the past. A cast iron bed frame can be just as beautiful, however, and it is likely to be lower in cost because the work necessary to create the frame is generally less than that of wrought iron.
The quality of the iron bed frame will generally depend on the quality of the construction. Iron itself is exceptionally strong, but if the casting is not done properly, or if the iron is not worked by hand properly, joints can let go fairly easily, leading to failure of the bed frame. This is not an especially common problem, but it is something to be aware of.
Iron also tends to conduct heat and cold very effectively, which means in winter months or in especially cold rooms, the iron can become uncomfortably cold to the touch. Conversely, if it is left in direct sunlight or is positioned too closely to heaters, it may become too hot.
The beauty of iron is hard to beat, but the weight can be a problem. Iron is a very dense and heavy metal, which means the iron bed frame is likely to be difficult to move easily. It can also lead to scratching on hardwood floors, so casters should be used on the legs of the bed to prevent such damage.