Adjustable beds provide unbeatable comfort and support, allowing you to find the perfect sleeping position. But many adjustable bed owners wonder how to add a stylish headboard to complement their high-tech base. The good news is that most standard headboards can be mounted onto a queen adjustable frame with the right hardware and a few installation tips.
Headboard Styles Compatible With Adjustable Beds
Since adjustable bases move and change heights, it’s important to find a headboard designed to work with this flexibility. Thankfully, many beautiful headboard styles readily pair with adjustable frames. Consider these top options for your queen adjustable bed.
Panel Headboards
Panel headboards feature a flat, solid wood or upholstered design that mounts flush to the wall. Their simple style works well with adjustable bases. Look for panel headboards around 4-6 inches thick to allow clearance between the headboard and wall as the bed adjusts. If purchasing an upholstered panel headboard, make sure the fabric and stitching quality is durable and long-lasting.
The minimal framework of most panel headboards enables flexible mounting at various heights. Use panel headboards sized according to your mattress width to ensure a custom fit. The affordability of many panel styles makes them a budget-friendly choice too.
Upholstered Headboards
For a soft, cushioned look, upholstered headboards wrapped in fabric add comfort and sophistication. Padded headboards work well on adjustable beds but allow a few extra inches between the headboard and wall to prevent scuffing. Consider an upholstered headboard with buttons or tufting to create depth and visual interest.
Since upholstered headboards have more volume, use mounts that extend the headboard out from the wall. You can also select an upholstered headboard with a streamlined silhouette and low-profile design to maintain flexibility. Focus on durable, high-quality fabrics that can handle regular use.
Floating Headboards
Floating headboards offer an airy, minimalist look with open space between the headboard and wall. This type of headboard provides ample room for your adjustable base to move freely without bumping into the headboard. Look for floating headboards approximately 4-6 inches thick with a lightweight frame.
When installing a floating headboard, position it at least 3 inches from the wall to allow for adjustment range. Calculate the ideal height carefully based on your mattress thickness so the headboard aligns properly as the bed moves. The simplicity of a floating headboard prevents visual clutter.
Storage Headboards
Headboards with shelving or cubbies built into the design provide the perfect space for books, reading glasses, remotes, and other nightstand items. Look for storage headboards with adjustable shelves to customize where you need space the most. Ensure the headboard is well-constructed from quality wood or durable materials.
The key for attaching storage headboards is finding mounting brackets that can handle the extra weight and bulk while still adjusting with the bed frame. Extending the headboard out from the wall provides the clearance you need. Storage headboards also help reduce nightstand clutter for a streamlined look.
Headboard Alternatives
For a headboard-free option, consider mounting a piece of artwork, tapestry, or macrame wall hanging to add visual interest. Layer in some floating shelves for storage space. This creates the look of a headboard without requiring any special mounting brackets or hardware. Just be sure to use decorative pieces that match the scale of your queen-size mattress.
Selecting The Right Mounting Hardware
Choosing mounting hardware designed specifically for adjustable beds ensures your headboard stays firmly attached as the bed moves and changes positions. Consider these types of flexible, adjustable mounting systems.
Universal Brackets
Look for headboard mounting brackets advertised as having universal adjustability. These flexible brackets have slots that slide up and down to match the height of your adjustable base. Brands like Mantua, Serta, and Reverie make adjustable mounting brackets compatible with most standard headboards.
Measure the height of your adjustable bed to select the right vertical adjustment range for the brackets. Also check that the bracket mounts properly onto your bed frame using the correct bolt pattern. Universal mounting brackets serve as an ideal all-in-one solution.
Considerations For Wall Mounting
Another option is using specialty hardware to mount your headboard directly into the wall studs. This may provide more stability if you desire a large, heavy headboard. Using toggles combined with wood screws allows vertical adjustments while securely attaching to studs.
Be sure to attach the headboard brackets into studs, not just drywall for durability. Use a stud finder to locate the exact points to install the wall mounts. Also consider adding extra triangular braces at the bottom corners of the headboard for reinforced support.
Using Bed Frame Mounts
Some adjustable bed bases include mounting holes in the frame specifically designed for attaching a headboard. Check your owner’s manual to see if headboard installation hardware came included. You can also often purchase compatible headboard mounts from the adjustable bed brand.
Bed frame headboard brackets typically bolt into pre-drilled holes on the base frame. This provides mounting points directly on the bed. Make sure to select the proper headboard mount kit for your specific adjustable bed model. Bed frame mounts create a seamless install.
Step-By-Step Headboard Installation Process
Once you have the right headboard and mounting system for your queen adjustable bed frame, follow these steps for smooth installation:
Preparing The Adjustable Base
Start by positioning your adjustable base with access to the back and a few feet from the wall. This allows room to work. Have a second person help maneuver the heavy adjustable bed. Use blankets or padding to avoid scratching the base frame.
Gather all tools needed like a stud finder, drill, screws, screwdriver, level, and tape measure. Ensure your mounting brackets fit properly onto the bed base. Carefully read all installation instructions before beginning.
Mounting The Hardware
Hold the headboard up to find the optimal height and location. Mark the wall stud locations using the stud finder. Then mount the headboard brackets or bed frame mounts according to the instructions. Typically pre-drilling into the studs is recommended before screwing in wall anchors.
For bed frame mounts, bolt the mounting plates onto the pre-set points on the adjustable base. Tighten screws securely but avoid over-torqueing. Use the level to double check the mounts are even. Leave hardware slightly loose for adjustments.
Attaching The Headboard
With a helper, lift and align the headboard onto the mounting brackets or bed frame mounts. Insert the screws or bolts to secure in place. Make any final tweaks to the placement as needed. Tighten hardware completely once the headboard sits level and in the ideal spot.
Carefully adjust your bed base through the various positions, checking that the headboard remains securely fastened. Make any height adjustments to the mounting brackets until finding the right fit. Add reinforcement brackets if needed for extra stability.
Troubleshooting Common Headboard Issues
Small installation problems can arise when attaching headboards to adjustable bases. Here are some quick fixes:
- If the headboard attachment seems loose, try tightening mounting hardware or switching to sturdier wall anchors.
- Improper clearance between the headboard and wall can be fixed by adjusting the mounting brackets out from the wall or selecting a thinner headboard.
- If the adjustable base settles lower over time, re-mount the headboard higher using the adjustable slots in universal brackets.
- Tilting headboards usually require shimming under one side of the mounting plate. Felt furniture pads work well as shims.
- Add reinforcement brackets for heavier headboards pulling away from the wall overtime.
The right headboard can complete the look of your queen adjustable bed for a bedroom oasis. Focus on finding a headboard style that pairs well with adjustable bases and allows clearance for movement. Mounting systems with flexible height adjustments ensure your headboard aligns properly at any bed position.
Carefully read the installation instructions for your mounting hardware and take time positioning the headboard. With the tips in this guide, you can install a headboard onto your queen adjustable base hassle-free. A supportive adjustable bed paired with a stylish upholstered, floating, or storage headboard creates a heavenly sleep sanctuary.
