Good Questions: Iron Beds Good?

Hello AT,

Does anyone have experience with iron beds? I am split between this Claudio Reyes bed (pic left) a Wesley Allen model and a Charleston Forge bed. They vary as much as $800 in price.

All the manufacturers say their beds are well-made, but for those who’ve owned one, are there pros and cons besides pro: the material will stay new-looking for ages vs. con: immediate brain damage upon bumping one’s head?

Thanks, Valerie

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Dear Valerie,

We know many people who have iron beds and love them. It is really a matter of style, and an iron bed is a very definite style.

Personally, we like iron beds when painted white, but have a hard time with them in any other finish.

And our general rule of thumb with any bed is buy the best one you can afford. Construction is important and usually what gets shortchanged when you pay less. If you really want it to last forever and have some resale value, pay for quality.

Anyone have one and can throw in a tip?

Comments (4)

I bought a Wesley Allen iron bed in old copper finish in Sept 2006 for $1600 with tax/delivery (hb, fb & frame). A month or so ago, I noticed a squeak at one end of the headboard, but it seemed to go away. But then within the past few days it has started squeaking horribly. You can barely lay down on the bed without hearing a squeak. There's nothing to adjust -- it's all internal welds. I found out the mfr warranty is 1 year, and since I didn't complain in time, I'm out of luck. I wrote to Wesley Allen just in case they choose to stand by their product anyway, but am not holding my breath. I don't know what to do to get rid of the squeak, so if anyone has encountered this & has suggestions, I'd love to hear them. I don't think I'll ever buy an iron bed again, and especially not one from Wesley Allen, which is supposed to have great quality, but obviously not in my case!

Lorna in IL

I'm ordering Claudio too!

I am very fond of antique beds and I really like this one, but still my heart is stuck on the Gothic from www.celticwroughtironbeds.com

I once owned the claudio reyes #14, and I sold it when I moved. I have been sorry about that since. I am currenty in the process of ordering a second one. They are built to last, they stand behind their work and I have to admit much more beautiful in person than the catalog. It is very easy to put together, never squeeks, and will last forever. Definatly wont be selling the next one.