How do I assemble an iron bed?

Most frames utilise slot-in iron joints that lock together at the corners without requiring complex hardware. Drop the side rails into the slots on the headboard and footboard posts. Ensure the frame sits level on its castors before placing any base or mattress across the supports. Tap joints gently with a rubber mallet if metal parts settle tightly into place.

What mattress size fits these beds?

Sizes range from single and double up to king and super king proportions, though nineteenth-century dimensions can occasionally differ slightly from modern standard sizing. Measure the interior frame length and width carefully before ordering a mattress. Custom mattresses may be necessary if your specific frame predates modern standardised bed dimensions. Check whether the side rails accommodate modern wooden slatted bases or traditional bed bases.

How do I clean brass and iron?

Dust metal surfaces regularly with a soft dry cloth to prevent grime accumulation on the castings. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that can strip protective lacquers from brass components. Treat painted iron gently using mild soapy water on a damp cloth, drying thoroughly immediately after. Polish unlacquered brass sparingly with a dedicated metal polish if you prefer a bright finish.

How do I date a metal bed?

Examine the style of the castings, ornamentation, and overall silhouette to place the piece within the Victorian or Edwardian eras. Aesthetic Movement and Art Nouveau motifs point toward the later nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Maker marks, registration numbers, or specific construction methods like tapered posts also help narrow down the decade of production. Simpler all-iron frames often date towards the turn of the century.