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Thuma Bed Frame Review – Quality at last!

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Ben Trapskin

I have carefully studied and evaluated many mattresses, sheets, pillows, duvet inserts, comforters, sleep gadgets, and adjustable beds for over a deca... Full Bio
Thuma Bed Review
Best Modern Bed Frame
Thuma

Thoughtfully designed and crafted to elevate any bedroom. The Bed includes the frame, extra-strength cushion-coated slats, and either The PillowBoard or The Headboard. Use coupon code FORBEDTIME25

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

The Thuma Bed frame has been all over Instagram this past year and to be honest, I thought it was all a bunch of hype. It’s easy to make a product look good in a photo studio and give customers the impression that a bed is easy to assemble. Trust me, I have been disappointed with more products than I would like to remember. Finally, after getting questions over and over again from people about the Thuma, I broke down and purchased one to see if it lived up to the hype. Below are my findings. In short, this is the best quality and most easy to assemble plaftorm bed I have reviewed but it does come at a price. At $1,095 for a queen-size frame, it is an investment but if you want something that will last a lifetime and can be set up and taken down with ease, this is the bed you have been waiting for.

Thuma Wood

The Thuma bed frame is made from upcycled and repurposed rubberwood. Thuma specifically avoids using new wood and instead sources their wood from rubber tree plantations that have reached the end of their latex-producing lifecycle. This approach aligns with their commitment to sustainability and reduces their environmental impact.

Here are some of the benefits of using rubberwood for the Thuma bed frame:

  • Sustainable: By using upcycled wood, Thuma reduces their reliance on deforestation and promotes responsible resource management.
  • Durability: Rubberwood is known for its strength and stability, making it a suitable material for furniture that needs to withstand regular use.
  • Natural beauty: Rubberwood has a warm, golden hue and natural wood grain patterns, adding a touch of elegance to the bed frame.
  • Eco-friendly: The manufacturing process of upcycled rubberwood consumes less energy and resources compared to using new wood.

Thuma Wood

However, it’s important to note that some reviews and discussions online might mistakenly refer to the Thuma bed frame as walnut due to its color and natural wood finish. While the color might resemble walnut, it’s crucial to clarify that the actual wood used is upcycled rubberwood.

If you’re looking for a sustainable and durable bed frame with a natural aesthetic, the Thuma bed frame made from upcycled rubberwood could be a good option for you.

Ordering & Assembling the Thuma Bed Frame

Currently, the Thuma Bed is only available to purchase through the Thuma website. While their signature wooden bed is by far the most popular product, they now have an assortment of bedroom furniture, including nightstands and headboards to complete the look. It only took a week for my bed to arrive after placing my order. It was delivered by FedEx in 3 boxes.

Thuma Boxes

To be honest, the longest part of the assembly is just unboxing and removing all the packaging. Once that is complete you can start lining up the legs and sides.

Thuma beds are designed for simple, tool-free assembly, using Japanese joinery instead of screws or bolts. Here’s what you can expect when assembling your Thuma frame:

Before you begin:

  • Ensure you have all the necessary components according to your order (size and additional elements like headboard or pillowboard).
  • Find a clear space large enough to lay out the frame pieces for assembly.
  • Have a rubber mallet available if needed for gentle persuasion during certain steps.

Assembly steps:

  1. Base Frame: The base frame comes pre-assembled. Simply unfold it and lock the legs into place.
  2. Slats: Lay the slats into the designated grooves on the base frame.
  3. Headboard or Pillowboard (if included): Attach the headboard or pillowboard by simply sliding it into the designated slots on the back of the base frame.
  4. Center Post (if included): Depending on your bed size, there might be a center post for added support. Insert it into the base frame and secure it according to the instructions.
  5. Finishing touches: Adjust the slats for even spacing and firmness, and place your mattress on top.

Thuma Unboxing

thuma bed parts

thuma

Assembly is a piece of cake but just make sure you read the directions carefully. It’s easy to install the parts backward if you aren’t paying attention like I did. Here’s how not to do it. As you can see I have the sides upside down and inside out.

thuma wrong installation

It isn’t hard to correct since there aren’t any screws needed at this point. Here’s how it should look:

Thuma correct installation

The last step is to screw in the two ends of the center support rail and lay the slats across the top.

thuma slats

My Thuma Bed Frame Findings

There aren’t many Thuma furniture reviews right now but I know that this is going to be a popular brand which is why I purchased one. I also have done a Helix wood bed frame review which while less expensive at around $600 for a queen, is not nearly as nice or well built as the Thuma. While the helix wood frame also assembles without tools, it is not as sturdy as the Thuma. 
 
Initially, there were complaints about the Thuma bed headboard which is basically a foam cushion that comes standard with the frame. Recently however they have designed and now sell a proper headboard made of the same quality 100% upcycled wood as the Thuma frame. This will increase the overall  Thuma bed cost but is a worthwhile investment. Keep in mind that you do not need a box spring for the Thuma, your mattress will rest directly on the wooden slats and all mattresses are compatible, even online brands.
 

Will the Thuma work with an Adjustable Bed Frame?

 
Yes, the Thuma is compatible with an adjustable bed. However, you need to make sure that you buy a zero-clearance adjustable bed frame so that it can rest directly on the slats. I recommend the Yawnder 4.0  adjustable bed for the Thuma because it will sit directly on the slats, is very durable, has a 10-year warranty, and also is a great price given all the features. 
 
Best Value
Yawnder 4.0

The versatile Adjustable Base can do it all, from helping with back pain and snoring to allowing for the perfect TV-watching position or making it easier to get in and out of bed.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
 
By resting the adjustable bed directly on the Thuma bed frame, you can still preserve that minimalist bedframe look and get all the benefits of an adjustable bed. 
 

There are some very significant differences between the Thuma and most of the platform beds you will find online. First, the frame is made of solid wood. This makes the bed sturdier and just looks better than one made with engineered wood. The Thuma is rated to hold 1,500 lbs. making it an ideal frame for heavier people or people that want to use an adjustable bed on a modern, minimalist frame like the Thuma.

There are no tools needed to assemble the Thuma, all the legs are held together through traditional Japanese joinery. As I said, it only takes minutes to assemble and disassemble. The wooden slats don’t require screws either. The only screws needed are for the head and foot of the middle support board.

thuma screw

Most of the slat beds I have received for review or just purchased myself have slats that feel flimsy. The slats on the Thuma are thick and even have padding on the end so they don’t make noise or scratch the frame itself.

thuma corner

The Thuma Price, Trial and Warranty

It’s still rare to get a trial period for a piece of furniture but the Thuma comes with a 100-night trial. That means you get to experience the Thuma in your house and if you don’t like it, you can return it for a full refund. They just ask that you keep the original boxes to pack it back in and they will send pre-paid shipping labels. Once it is received by the shipping and scanned in their system, Thuma will process a full refund. Since this bed is so easy to take apart, returns should be easy too.

While the price may seem high for a slat bed, keep in mind that you are paying for quality. There’s no reason this won’t last a lifetime and it has a timeless look that can go with just about any other furniture. I’m tired of buying cheap furniture that doesn’t last and ends up creating more waste. A king-size Thuma frame is $1,195 which is only $100 more than the queen size and if you are someone who tends to move every few years like I do, this makes moving so much easier. I couldn’t find much information on the Thuma warranty other than it’s a lifetime warranty. So I assume that as long as you own it, they will cover against any manufacturer defects. Since this is such a simple piece of furniture, I really don’t know what could go wrong with it.

Thuma offers a two-part program for peace of mind with your purchase:

1. 100-Night Sleep Trial:

  • You have 100 nights to try out your Thuma bed frame after purchase.
  • This trial period starts from the date of delivery.
  • If you’re not satisfied during the trial, you can initiate a return and receive a full refund (excluding shipping costs).
  • Thuma will arrange for pickup and transport of the returned frame.

2. Limited Lifetime Warranty:

  • This warranty covers your Thuma bed frame against any defects in materials or workmanship for the lifetime of the original owner.
  • It does not cover normal wear and tear, misuse, or damage caused by accidents or neglect.
  • To make a warranty claim, you need to contact Thuma support and provide your proof of purchase.
  • Thuma will repair or replace the defective parts at their discretion, and cover the shipping costs for replacements.

Additional Information:

  • The warranty applies only to the original purchaser and cannot be transferred.
  • You can find more details about the warranty and trial policy on Thuma’s website

My Thuma Recommendation

Thuma is becoming an incredibly popular bed and it’s definitely worth the hype. Cheaper furniture from Ikea and Wayfair has it’s place but Thuma is an investment in quality and sustainability. It’s not only a stylish bed frame, it’s also a quality bed frame. 

Right now there isn’t a Thuma bed showroom except for the Yawnder Mattress Store in San Diego where we have a Thuma Bed on Display as well as popular online mattress brands which are compatible with the Thuma. 

Not only that, you can also use the Thuma with an adjustable base. I recommend the  Yawnder 4.0 base because it can sit directly on the Thuma with zero clearance and given the features, the price is unbeatable. The Thuma bed dimensions are slightly larger than the mattress that sits on it which makes it perfect for adjustable beds.

What’s the Best mattress for the Thuma? 

While you can buy a Thuma mattress, I would rather go with something like the Eight Sleep Pod. The Eight Sleep mattress is a next-generation technology that dynamically regulates your temperature. You can get my full Eight Sleep Pod review along with the Eight Sleep Pod app info here

If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to the Thuma check out the Charm 2.0 from Valyou Furniture. I can’t tell the difference and it is about half the price of a Thuma with different color options. Valoyou Furniture also offers a nice Thuma Nightstand dupe for less. Another Thuma alternative is the Silk and Snow bed frame. It has more detail than the Thuma and is also less expensive. Between the Thuma vs. Silk and Snow, I prefer the Silk and Snow frame due to the price. Even with a Thuma Bed Discount, both the Valyou Furniture Charm 2.0 and the Silk and Snow bed are less expensive. 

Thuma has recently introduced a proper headboard. Before they just had the regular foam headboard. 

There are many platform bed frames to choose from online and it can get overwhelming. In my experience, most of what you find on Amazon and even Wayfair is cheap and doesn’t last long. The Thuma, Valyou and Silk, and Snow are built to last. 

Thuma Japanese Joinery

Japanese joinery refers to a traditional woodworking technique that utilizes precise interlocking joints to assemble wooden structures without the need for nails, screws, or glue. These joints rely on friction and tension to create strong and durable connections, offering several advantages that made them well-suited for the Thuma bed frame.

Benefits of Japanese joinery in the Thuma bed frame:

  • Tool-free assembly: The interlocking joints allow for easy assembly and disassembly without any special tools, making it ideal for those who prefer simplicity and convenience.
  • Strong and sturdy: Despite the lack of metal hardware, the precisely crafted joints create a robust and stable bed frame capable of supporting a significant amount of weight.
  • Aesthetically pleasing: The exposed joinery adds a unique visual element to the bed frame, showcasing the craftsmanship and natural beauty of the wood.
  • Eco-friendly: By eliminating the need for metal hardware, Thuma reduces the environmental impact of the bed frame production process.
  • Adaptability: The joinery allows for some flexibility in the final assembly, making it potentially adaptable to different mattress sizes or future modifications.

However, it’s important to note that:

  • Learning curve: While tool-free, the assembly process might require some understanding of the joinery mechanisms and following Thuma’s specific instructions for a smooth assembly.
  • Disassembly required for relocation: Due to the interlocking nature, if you need to move the frame, you’ll need to disassemble it first, unlike some screw-based designs.
  • Potentially less forgiving: If any joinery component gets damaged or worn, repairs might be more complex compared to simply replacing a screw.

Overall, Japanese joinery adds a unique combination of functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability to the Thuma bed frame. Whether it’s the right choice for you depends on your priorities and preferences in terms of assembly ease, flexibility, and potential repair needs.

Thuma Bed Prices 

SizeFrame OnlyFrame + PillboardFrame + HeadboardFrame + Headboard + Cushion
TwinNot AvailableNot AvailableNot AvailableNot Available
Twin XLNot AvailableNot AvailableNot AvailableNot Available
FullNot AvailableNot AvailableNot AvailableNot Available
Queen$1,095$1,295$1,895$2,085
King$1,195$1,395$1,995$2,185
California King$1,195$1,395$1,995$2,185

 

  • These prices are for the standard Thuma Bed frame made from natural walnut.
  • Thuma offers additional accessories such as the Nightstand, Cubby storage system, and Felt Tops, which are sold separately.
  • Thuma frequently runs promotions and offers discounts, so it’s worth checking their website for the latest pricing.

Here’s a breakdown of who might benefit from the Thuma bed frame and who might want to consider other options:

Good fit for:

  • Minimalists: The Thuma frame’s sleek, low-profile design complements minimalist aesthetics.
  • Apartment dwellers: Its easy assembly and disassembly make it convenient for moving or tight spaces.
  • Eco-conscious consumers: Made from natural walnut and recycled materials, it appeals to those who value sustainability.
  • Hot sleepers: The natural wood frame may offer breathability compared to some upholstered options.
  • Those seeking easy setup: The tool-free assembly is quick and requires minimal effort.

Might not be ideal for:

  • Traditional style seekers: The minimalist design might not suit those preferring classic or ornate bed frames.
  • Storage enthusiasts: The frame offers no built-in storage underneath, unlike some platform beds.
  • Budget-conscious shoppers: The Thuma frame is more expensive than some basic bed frames.
  • Tall individuals: The low profile might feel too close to the ground for some.
  • Heavyweight sleepers: While sturdy, the wooden slats might not offer the same support as solid bed bases for heavier individuals.

Additional factors to consider:

  • Mattress compatibility: Ensure your mattress size matches the frame’s dimensions.
  • Personal preferences: Ultimately, the best bed frame depends on your individual needs and style. Read reviews and compare features to make an informed decision.

Remember:

  • Thuma offers a 30-night trial period, so you can test the frame at home before committing.
  • Consider your priorities and research alternative options to find the bed frame that best suits you.

Thuma is based in San Francisco, California. They are primarily an online retailer with no physical showrooms.

The Thuma Mattress ships conveniently and for free within the contiguous United States. Here’s how it works:

  • Compressed and Boxed: The mattress is compressed, rolled, and carefully packaged in a box.
  • Shipping Carrier: Thuma typically uses FedEx for their mattress deliveries.
  • Delivery Time: Shipping time can vary, but you can expect your mattress to arrive within a few business days after it’s shipped.
  • Tracking: You’ll receive a tracking number once your mattress ships so you can monitor its progress.

The Thuma and Nectar mattresses have distinct characteristics that make them appeal to different sleepers. Here’s a breakdown of their key differences:

Thuma The Hybrid Mattress

  • Construction: Hybrid construction with innerspring coils and layers of comfort foam, including a pillow top.
  • Feel: Offers a balanced medium-firm feel with good support and a touch of plushness from the pillow top.
  • Best for: Back sleepers, combination sleepers, and those who like a mix of responsiveness and pressure relief. Might be a little firm for strict side sleepers.
  • Other features: Greenguard Gold and CertiPUR-US certified for low emissions.

Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress

  • Construction: All-foam construction with multiple layers of memory foam.
  • Feel: Medium-soft feel with a classic memory foam hug, offering excellent pressure relief.
  • Best for: Side sleepers, those who like a conforming feel, and people who prioritize pressure relief above all else. Might feel too soft for strict stomach sleepers who need more support.
  • Other features: CertiPUR-US certified for low emissions.

Key Considerations

  • Firmness: The Nectar is notably softer than the Thuma.
  • Responsiveness: The Thuma’s hybrid construction offers more bounce and ease of movement compared to the conforming feel of the Nectar.
  • Price: Both mattresses are in a similar price range, but check for current offers as sales may change this.
  • Reputation: Both Thuma and Nectar are well-regarded brands.

Choosing the Right One

The best mattress for you depends on your personal needs:

  • Thuma: Consider this if you prefer a medium-firm feel, want a bouncier mattress, and are a combination sleeper.
  • Nectar: This is a great pick if you crave a soft, conforming feel, sleep primarily on your side, and need maximum pressure relief.

Here’s the price breakdown for the Thuma Hybrid Mattress in various sizes:

  • Twin: $895
  • Twin XL: $945
  • Full: $1095
  • Queen: $1195
  • King: $1395
  • California King: $1395

Important to Note:

  • Sales: Thuma occasionally runs sales and offers discounts, so it’s worth checking their website (https://www.thuma.co/products/the-hybrid-mattress) for the latest pricing.
  • Optional Pillowtop: Adding the optional pillowtop to the mattress increases the price.

While the Thuma mattress is generally well-received, there are some common complaints reported by customers:

  • Firmness: Some find the Thuma mattress to be firmer than expected, especially side sleepers who might need more pressure relief.
  • Edge Support: A few users feel that the edge support isn’t the strongest, leading to a slight sense of rolling out of bed.
  • Motion Transfer: While not extreme, some couples report feeling their partner’s movements slightly more than they’d prefer.
  • Off-Gassing: Like many new mattresses, there may be a temporary “new mattress smell” due to off-gassing of materials. This usually dissipates quickly, though.
  • Price: Some consider the Thuma mattress a bit pricey compared to other online mattress options.

Important Considerations:

  • Subjectivity: Mattress comfort is highly subjective. One person’s “too firm” might be another’s “perfect.”
  • Reviews: It’s wise to read multiple reviews from various sources to get a balanced perspective on complaints.
  • Return Policy: Thuma offers a good return policy, so you can try the mattress and see if it works for you.

Here’s a breakdown of the key features and specifications of the Thuma Hybrid Mattress:

Construction

  • Hybrid Design: Combines individually pocketed innerspring coils with multiple layers of comfort foam for support and pressure relief.
  • Pillow Top: Soft, plush pillow top (included in base model) for added cushioning.
  • Cover: Breathable and moisture-wicking Japanese cotton cover to promote a cooler sleep environment.

Key Features

  • Medium-Firm Feel: Provides a balance between support and plush comfort, suitable for different sleep positions.
  • Responsiveness: The coils offer a degree of bounce and ease of movement.
  • Durability: High-quality materials and construction suggest resistance to sagging and wear over time.
  • Certifications: Greenguard Gold and CertiPUR-US certified, meeting strict standards for low emissions.
  • Optional Pillowboard: Available in linen or vegan leather for a stylish headboard alternative (additional cost).

Specifications

  • Height: Approximately 11 inches
  • Sizes: Available in standard sizes from Twin to California King.
  • Weight: Varies by size, but as an example, the Queen size weighs approximately 110 lbs.

Final thoughts and things to consider about the Thuma Mattress, specifically based on its construction and how it translates to performance:

Pros

  • Quality Construction: The combination of innerspring coils, foam layers, and the pillow top indicate high-quality materials and thoughtful design.
  • Balanced Feel: The hybrid design offers a good mix of support from the coils and plush comfort from the foam and pillow top. This translates to a comfortable experience for various sleeping positions.
  • Durability: The materials used suggest the Thuma mattress is built to last and resist sagging over time.
  • Responsiveness: The coils provide a degree of bounce and ease of movement, making it good for combination sleepers who change positions.
  • Eco-consciousness: Thuma’s use of Greenguard Gold and CertiPUR-US certified materials appeals to those seeking low-emission products.

Cons

  • Potential Firmness: The medium-firm feel might be too firm for some side sleepers who need extra pressure relief in the hips and shoulders.
  • Edge Support: Some users wish the edge support was stronger, particularly for those who sleep near the edge of the bed.
  • Motion Transfer: While not extreme, the hybrid construction may transmit some motion to partners depending on sensitivity levels.
  • Price: The Thuma mattress is on the higher end of online mattress prices.

Who is it best for?

  • Back sleepers and combination sleepers: Due to its balanced comfort and support.
  • Those seeking a responsive mattress: The coils provide some bounce.
  • People prioritizing quality and durability: The construction suggests a long lifespan.

Who might want to consider other options:

  • Strict side sleepers: Might need a softer feel strictly for pressure relief.
  • Those highly sensitive to motion transfer: An all-foam mattress might be better at isolating movement.
  • Budget-conscious buyers: There are more affordable options, though potentially with compromises in quality.

Final Thoughts:

The Thuma Mattress is a well-made, high-quality hybrid mattress that should appeal to many sleepers. Its balanced feel and construction make it a worthy option for those seeking a durable and comfortable sleep experience. However, it’s essential to weigh the potential drawbacks of firmness and price against your personal preferences and budget.

Best Modern Bed Frame
Thuma

Thoughtfully designed and crafted to elevate any bedroom. The Bed includes the frame, extra-strength cushion-coated slats, and either The PillowBoard or The Headboard. Use coupon code FORBEDTIME25

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

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