How to clean your bed frame in 6 simple steps

Beds come in different sizes, styles, and shapes; the same can be said for bed frames. Bed frames are made from various materials including metal, wood, and upholstery. This means there are differences in how each one should be cleaned.

In this blog, we run through a step-by-step guide on how to clean your bed frame by type. To find the section that’s appropriate to your bed frame, see below: 

1. How to clean a wooden bed frame 
2. How to clean a metal bed frame 
3. How to clean a bed frame with upholstery 

The process is fairly simple and similar for each material, but this guide breaks it down into small, easy steps. 

How to clean a wooden bed frame

1. Collect the supplies needed to clean a bed frame: 

• Gather a cloth for dusting. If you don’t have a dust cloth, a microfiber cloth will suffice. 
• Prepare yourself with a mild wood cleaner or a mixture of dish soap and warm water.
• You will need a bristle brush for hard-to-reach places. 
• A dry cloth that is clean 
• To completely renew the bed frame, you will need furniture wax, but this stage is optional.

Now you’ve got all of the supplies, you can start by removing the bedding and mattress.  

2. Remove bedding and mattress:

• Completely strip all of the bedding from the bed and remove the mattress. This will allow you the space to start the cleaning process of the bed frame.

3. Grab the dust cloth:

• With the bristle brush and dust cloth, start dusting the wooden frame to remove all of the loose dirt and dust.

4. Start the cleaning process:

• If you have a spray bottle, add a small amount of wood cleaner or dish soap to the water. Once mixed properly, pour into the spray bottle. If you don’t have a spray bottle, a bucket or bowl will do just fine. 
• With the mixture slightly dampen a clean cloth and wipe down the wooden bed frame. Make sure to only slightly dampen, you do not want to cloth to be too wet. 
• Gently scrub away any stains or marks with the cloth – with some perseverance, the marks should slowly disappear.
• Excessive moisture can damage the wood, so avoid doing this if you can. Make sure to dry damp areas as soon as you can.

5. Dry the bed frame:

• With a dry and clean cloth, wipe the bed frame dry by removing any remaining moisture. 
• If you have furniture wax, now is your time to use it. Apply a thin layer of wax to the bed frame to protect and enhance the wood's appearance. Make sure to keep the manufacturer's instructions on hand.

6. Finally, reassemble the bed by putting the mattress back on the frame and replacing the bedding. And then, take a nap.

How to clean a metal bed frame

1. Collect the supplies needed to clean a metal bed frame: 

• You will need a dust cloth – if you don’t have one then a microfiber cloth will do
• For cleaning, an all-purpose liquid clean or a mixture of dish soap and water
• A bristle brush for those hard-to-reach places
• And, finally a clean, dry cloth

2. Remove bedding and mattress:

• Create a clear space to clean by removing all of the bedding and the mattress.

3. Grab the dust cloth:

• Using a dust cloth, remove loose dirt and dust from the metal bed frame. For difficult nooks, find your bristle brush to clean away the remaining dirt. 

4. Start the cleaning process:

• Into a spray bottle or bowl, add a small amount of all-purpose cleaner or dish soap with water.
• Dampen a clean cloth with a cleaning solution. Gently wipe the metal frame with the cloth to remove any dirt or marks. 
• Make sure to look out for areas with marks, stains, or spots and rub until the area looks as good as new. 

5. Dry the bed frame:

• With a dry cloth, wipe the metal[ bed frame clean, until it’s dry and shimmers. 

6. Finally, reassemble the bed by putting the mattress back on the frame and the bedding on the mattress. 

How to clean an upholstered bed frame

1. Collect the supplies needed to clean an upholstered bed frame: 

• For the upholstery, get your hoover ready
• Buy a mild upholstery cleaner that will help remove any stains from the fabric
• A soft-bristle brush is handy for stubborn pieces of dirt
• A clean and dry cloth for the finishing touches

2. Remove bedding and mattress:

• To start the cleaning process make sure to completely strip the bed of all bedding, including the mattress.

3. Get your hoover and turn it on:

• Use the hoover to clean the upholstery bed frame and, or the upholstered headboard and sides. The hoover will vacuum any loose dirt or debris. 

4. Start the cleaning process:

• Use a damp, clean cloth and apply a small amount of upholstery cleaner. Gently blot away any stains on the upholstery. Do not rub as this could damage the fabric and push the stains deeper into the fabric. 
• Keep blotting until heavily stained areas have been removed. 
• Make sure to follow the instructions of the upholstery cleaner.

5. Dry the upholstery: 

• Wipe the upholstered frame and, or upholstered headboard with a clean, damp cloth to remove moisture and residue from the cleaner.
• Allow the upholstery to air dry.

6. Reassemble the bed by putting the mattress back on the frame and the bedding onto the mattress. 

This guide is a quick, easy guide. Please make sure to always follow the care instructions from the bed frame manufacturer. Different materials have specific cleaning instructions. Below, find some further information on cleaning bed frames. 

How often should I clean my bed frame?

It’s common practice to clean your bed frame at least once every couple of months. However, if you’re home is prone to dust, or if you have allergies, it’s recommended to clean your bed frame more often. 

Can I use a steam cleaner to clean my bed frame?

You can use a steam cleaner to clean your bed frame, but it’s not suitable for all types of bed frame materials. Make sure to double-check the manufacturer's instructions before using a steam cleaner. 

Can I use furniture polish on my wooden bed frame?

Yes, furniture polish can be used to clean wooden bed frames. However, there are different types of polish for the different woods. Make sure to check the small print. 

What should I do if my bed frame is squeaky?

If the bed frame is squeaky it’s usually due to loose bolts and fixtures. Check all the fixtures and tighten them. If the noise continues, look to add a lubricant, especially on metal bed frames.