The IKEA Hemnes and Malm bed frames are two of the most popular choices from IKEA's lineup, but they serve very different tastes and needs. The Hemnes features a traditional, solid wood construction for a sturdier, more timeless feel, while the Malm offers a sleek, minimalist design using particleboard, making it a more modern and budget-friendly option.
Here's everything you need to know to decide which iconic IKEA bed is the right fit for your bedroom.
IKEA Hemnes Bed Frame
The Hemnes bed frame is a beloved classic known for its solid wood construction and timeless, traditional aesthetic. It brings a warm, substantial feel to a bedroom that aligns with rustic, farmhouse, or classic decor styles. Its sturdy build and classic lines make it a long-term furniture piece rather than a temporary solution.
- What it is: A classic bed frame made primarily from sustainably-sourced solid pine.
- Key features: Solid wood construction, paneled headboard and footboard, high-profile design creates a strong presence in a room.
- Price: Typically $200 - $400 depending on the size and specific model.
- Style: Traditional, rustic, and slightly Scandinavian. Its paneled details give it a cozy, established look.
- Materials/Construction: The majority of the frame is made from solid pine, a durable softwood that provides stability and a natural look.
- Pros: Excellent durability due to solid wood construction. Timeless design that won't go out of style. The use of natural materials gives it a premium feel. Sturdy and less prone to creaking or damage compared to particleboard frames.
- Cons: Higher price point than the Malm. Assembly can be more time-consuming. Heavy and more difficult to move. Its traditional look may not fit ultra-modern or minimalist spaces.
The Hemnes is perfect for someone looking for a long-lasting, sturdy bed with a classic and warm aesthetic who is willing to invest a little more for solid wood quality.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/hemnes-bed-frame-40344194/
IKEA Malm Bed Frame
The Malm bed is IKEA's answer to modern, minimalist design. With its clean, straight lines and low-slung profile, it is an incredibly versatile and budget-friendly option that has become a staple in contemporary bedrooms. Its design prioritizes simplicity and function, often available with under-bed storage options to maximize space.
- What it is: A minimalist platform bed with a streamlined, modern look made from particleboard.
- Key features: Low-profile frame, simple headboard, clean lines, option for integrated under-bed storage drawers on some models.
- Price: Generally ranges from $150 to $300, making it one of IKEA's most affordable bed frames.
- Style: Modern, minimalist, and contemporary. Its lack of ornamentation allows it to blend seamlessly into many different decor schemes.
- Materials/Construction: Made from particleboard and fiberboard with wood veneer, paint, or foil finishes. This keeps the cost down and the weight manageable.
- Pros: Highly affordable price point. Sleek, modern design is versatile and great for smaller rooms. Easier and quicker to assemble than the Hemnes. Lighter weight makes it easier to move.
- Cons: Particleboard construction is less durable than solid wood. More susceptible to scratches, dings, and water damage. Might not feel as substantial or permanent as the Hemnes.
The Malm bed is an excellent choice for budget-conscious decorators, people in their first apartments, or anyone who loves a clean, modern, and minimalist aesthetic.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/p/malm-queen-bed-frame-70331455/
Hemnes vs. Malm Comparison
Dimensions & Scale
The most noticeable difference here is the profile. The Malm has a low-profile platform design that makes a room feel more open and is well-suited for smaller spaces or rooms with lower ceilings. Its footprint feels visually lighter.
The Hemnes, by contrast, has a taller headboard and a higher overall profile. It has more visual weight and serves as a more traditional anchor piece in a primary bedroom. The space under the higher frame also allows for more versatile under-bed storage containers if you don't opt for the integrated drawer model.
Materials & Construction
This is the defining difference. Hemnes uses solid pine, a natural and durable material that can withstand moves and years of use. It feels sturdy and is less likely to suffer from damage beyond cosmetic scratches, which can often be repaired. Solid wood brings a sense of permanence and quality.
The Malm is constructed from particleboard and fiberboard. While perfectly functional and sturdy enough for daily use, it is more vulnerable to damage from moisture, which can cause swelling. It's also more likely to chip or get damaged during moves. The particleboard construction is what keeps it so attractively priced.
Style & Versatility
Style is purely subjective, and both beds are versatile in their own rights. The Hemnes excels in traditional, rustic, coastal, or shabby-chic designs. Its classic shape acts as a familiar and comforting centerpiece. Available in neutral tones like white, black-brown, and gray, it’s easy to style with different textiles.
The Malm's strength is its minimalism. It fits perfectly in modern, contemporary, hygge, or Scandinavian interiors. Because its design is so simple, it allows your bedding, art, and decor to take center stage. Its clean canvas aesthetic works almost anywhere that a traditional, ornate bed would feel out of place.
Price & Value
Hands down, the Malm is the more affordable option. For students, apartment renters, or anyone furnishing on a strict budget, its low price is a major advantage. It offers tremendous style for the money, but its value is tied to its lower cost and not necessarily its longevity.
The Hemnes bed costs more upfront, but its value comes from its durability. It's an investment piece that is more likely to last through multiple moves and years of use without needing to be replaced. For those looking to buy a piece of furniture that will last, the Hemnes offers superior long-term value.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both IKEA bed frames are great products, but they cater to different buyers with different priorities.
Choose the Hemnes if:
- You prioritize long-term durability and the sturdiness of solid wood construction.
- You prefer a timeless, traditional, or rustic aesthetic for your bedroom.
- You view your bed as a long-term furniture investment.
- You want a bed with a taller profile and a more substantial visual presence.
Choose the Malm if:
- Your top priority is affordability and staying on a strict budget.
- You love a clean, modern, and minimalist look.
- You need a low-profile bed for a smaller room or prefer an open, airy feel.
- You need furniture that is relatively lightweight and easier to move and assemble yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between the IKEA Hemnes and Malm beds?
The primary difference is material and style. The Hemnes is made of solid pine and has a traditional, classic design. The Malm is made of particleboard and has a sleek, modern, minimalist design. This also leads to a key difference in price and durability.
Which one is more durable?
The Hemnes is significantly more durable. Its solid wood construction can handle more wear and tear over the years and is less susceptible to structural damage, especially during moves, compared to the particleboard of the Malm.
Is the Malm bed sturdy?
Yes, for its intended use, the Malm bed is sturdy. When assembled correctly, it supports an adult couple without issue and doesn't creak or wobble. However, its particleboard structure is not as resilient to damage from moving or water as the solid wood frame of the Hemnes.
Which bed is easier to assemble?
Typically, the Malm bed is slightly easier and faster to assemble. Its design is simpler, with fewer detailed parts and lighter components, which makes it more manageable for one person to build compared to the heavier solid wood pieces of the Hemnes.
Do these beds have storage options?
Yes, both the Hemnes and Malm collections offer versions of the bed with integrated under-bed storage drawers. This is a great feature for maximizing space in any bedroom.
Which one is better for small bedrooms?
The Malm bed is often a better choice for small bedrooms. Its low-profile frame and clean lines create a sense of openness and take up less visual space, which can make a small room feel larger and less cluttered.
Can I use my own box spring?
Neither the Hemnes nor the Malm is designed to be used with a box spring. Both frames are platform beds that come with a slatted base (like Luröy or Lönset) designed to support a mattress directly, providing proper ventilation and support.
How do you clean the Hemnes vs. the Malm?
Both are easy to clean. You can wipe both frames with a soft cloth dampened with water and a mild dish soap, then dry with a clean cloth. The veneer finish on the Malm and the stained-and-lacquered finish on the Hemnes are both relatively resilient to simple surface cleaning.
At Interior Insider, we're dedicated to curating the best in home decor, interior design, and home essentials to help you discover brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, design, and craftsmanship. When you make a purchase through our links, Interior Insider may earn a commission - which helps support our small team and allows us to continue bringing you inspiration and expert advice for creating your perfect space.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our curated design guides to find your next favorite piece.
