Size is the most important consideration when choosing a bed canopy frame. You will need to measure your bedroom to figure out which size canopy, if any, will fit in the space, and you will also need to figure out what size mattress you have. The bed frame itself will need to match the size of mattress you have, and the bed canopy frame will also need to fit this size. In most cases, the canopy frame and the bed frame itself are one unit, though other units can be fitted to an existing frame that has the appropriate type of uprights.
A bed canopy frame can come in a wide range of styles, colors, designs, and sizes. Choosing the best one for your needs will largely boil down to a matter of preference, but you can help yourself choose a higher quality frame by considering only high-quality materials. This means hardwoods and certain types of metals are the best options. Hardwoods tend to be exceptionally durable and beautiful, but they are also perhaps the most expensive options. Oak and mahogany are common materials for a bed canopy frame because they are durable and feature prominent grains, as well as deep tones. Softwoods are also commonly used, but they are more susceptible to various types of damage. Softwoods are generally far less expensive, though they can also be quite beautiful.
Iron and steel are also commonly used to make a bed canopy frame. True iron can be fairly expensive and very heavy, potentially damaging floors, especially wood floors. Steel tends to be lighter and more easily workable, as well as more affordable. Steel frames can be very attractive, making them a popular choice, though such frames are less likely to have solid headboards and footboards unless the steel is used in conjunction with wood.
Sometimes the bed canopy frame is designed to work with both a box spring and mattress, while in other instances, it is designed to only work with a mattress. Be sure to consider both options; frames for just mattresses will feature a flat base to support the entire mattress, keeping it flat and stable during use. Otherwise, a box spring will be required to support the mattress. Frames that require box springs generally won't have a wide, flat surface; instead, they will feature support slats that keep the box spring in place.