Cheap particle board that is painted to look like wood will retain its appearance, but the points that attach the bed frame to the head and foot board will often erode over time, resulting in a shaky, rickety bed. Painted board is fine for decorative elements and attachments, but should not be used for the bed’s structure; this includes the frame, slats and the connecting points on the head and footboard.
When the sides of the frame are attached to the head and foot board, they should be connected to solid wood, not plywood or particle board. Both of these inferior materials are made of composites – small chips and pieces of material merged together; the end result just isn’t as durable as solid, hearty wood or thick, durable metal.