What Do You Need From Your New Bed?
Before choosing a style, think about what matters most to you. These four questions can help narrow down your options.
What Size?
Choose a size that gives you enough sleeping space without overwhelming your bedroom.
What Type?
Compare divan beds, bed frames and ottoman beds to find the right solution.
Need Storage?
Make use of the space underneath your bed with drawers or ottoman storage.
What Style?
Choose a bed and headboard combination that complements your bedroom décor.
When Should I Replace My Bed?
A bed can last for many years, but wear and tear, changing requirements and reduced comfort can all be signs that it is time for an upgrade.
Visible Wear & Tear
Damaged components, broken parts, damaged upholstery or structural problems can indicate that your bed needs replacing.
Reduced Comfort
If your current bed no longer feels comfortable or provides the support you need, it may be time for a change.
Your Needs Have Changed
Moving, sharing a bed, changing bedroom furniture or needing more storage can all influence your choice.
Your Bedroom Has Changed
Redecorating or moving to a different room may mean you need a different bed size, style or storage solution.
Your Mattress Needs Replacing
If you're buying a new mattress, check that your existing bed base is still suitable and in good condition.
What Bed Size Should I Choose?
Choosing the right bed size is one of the most important decisions when buying a new bed. Consider who will use it, how much sleeping space you prefer and how much room you have available.
A compact choice for children's bedrooms, smaller rooms and guest spaces.
A popular size for one person, children's bedrooms, teenagers and guest rooms.
Provides more sleeping space than a single while taking up less room than a standard double.
A popular choice for couples and a spacious option for single sleepers.
Offers extra width and length for couples who want a more spacious sleeping area.
The largest standard UK size, ideal for couples wanting plenty of sleeping space.
What Type of Bed Should I Choose?
The best bed for your bedroom depends on your available space, storage requirements, preferred style and budget.
Practical & Storage-Friendly
Divan beds combine a supportive base with built-in storage options, making them a practical choice for many bedrooms.
Divan Bed Buying Guide →Style & Choice
Bed frames offer a wide range of upholstered, wooden and metal designs to complement your bedroom.
Explore Bed Frames →Maximum Storage
Ottoman beds use a lift-up base to provide a large storage area beneath the mattress.
Ottoman Bed Buying Guide →Divan Bed or Bed Frame?
Both can make an excellent choice. The right option depends on how important storage, style, practicality and available space are to you.
Choose a Divan If...
- You prioritise storage and practicality.
- You want to make efficient use of bedroom space.
- You like drawer or ottoman storage.
- You want a sturdy mattress base.
- You want to add a matching headboard.
Choose a Bed Frame If...
- You prioritise style and bedroom aesthetics.
- You want wood, metal or upholstered designs.
- You have a particular bedroom look in mind.
- You want a statement piece of furniture.
- Built-in storage isn't your main priority.
What Are the Benefits of a Divan Bed?
Divan beds remain a popular choice because they combine a supportive base with practical storage and a range of styling options.
Built-In Storage
Choose from drawer configurations or ottoman storage for bedding, clothing and other belongings.
Space-Saving
Use the space beneath your bed to reduce the need for additional storage furniture.
Supportive Base
A sturdy divan base provides a stable foundation for your mattress.
Choice of Styles
Choose from different fabrics, colours and finishes to suit your bedroom décor.
Popular UK Sizes
Divan beds are available in popular sizes from small single through to super king.
Add a Headboard
Pair your divan with a headboard to create a complete bedroom look.
Which Bed Storage Option Should I Choose?
If storage is important, think about what you plan to keep beneath the bed and how frequently you need to access it.
Drawer Storage
Convenient for everyday items such as spare bedding, pillows, blankets and clothing.
Continental Drawers
A combination of drawer sizes can maximise storage while leaving room for bedside furniture.
Ottoman Storage
A large hidden compartment beneath the mattress is ideal for larger or less frequently used items.
How Do I Choose the Right Bed Height?
Bed height affects both the appearance of your bedroom and how easy the bed is to get in and out of. The finished height depends on the bed base, feet and mattress thickness.
Choose a height that allows you to sit down and stand up comfortably.
A deeper mattress will increase the overall height of your finished bed.
Higher beds can feel substantial, while lower beds can create a more minimalist appearance.
The height and construction of the base can affect the storage available underneath.
What Headboard Should I Choose?
A headboard can complete the look of your bed while providing a comfortable place to lean against when sitting up.
Upholstered
Upholstered headboards provide a softer finish and are available in a range of fabrics, colours and designs.
Wooden
Wooden headboards offer a classic appearance that can work with traditional and contemporary bedrooms.
Metal
Metal headboards are available in modern and traditional styles and can be relatively easy to maintain.
Floor Standing
Floor-standing headboards extend to the floor and can create a striking focal point.
Strutted
Strutted headboards attach to the bed using struts and provide a practical finishing touch.
Check Compatibility
Always check the headboard size, fixing method and compatibility with your chosen bed.
8 Things to Check Before Buying a Bed
Check available space and leave enough room to move around the bed.
Consider who will use the bed and how much sleeping space you need.
Consider drawers or an ottoman bed if additional storage is important.
Compare divans, ottoman beds and traditional bed frames.
Make sure your mattress is the correct size and suitable for your chosen bed.
Remember that mattress depth contributes to the finished bed height.
Check the size and fixing method before choosing your headboard.
Measure doorways, stairways and access points before ordering.
Don't Forget the Mattress
Your bed base is only part of your sleep setup. Choosing the right mattress is equally important. Consider your preferred firmness, sleeping position, mattress type and the level of support you need.
Read Our Mattress Buying Guides →Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Bed
What is the most popular bed size in the UK?
Double beds are a popular choice for couples and larger bedrooms, while single beds are commonly used in children's, teenagers' and guest bedrooms. King and super king beds are ideal when you have enough space and want additional sleeping room.
Is a divan bed better than a bed frame?
It depends on your priorities. Divan beds are particularly useful if you want built-in storage and a practical design, while bed frames offer a wider choice of materials and styles. Read our comparison guide →
Are ottoman beds good for storage?
Yes. Ottoman beds provide a large storage area beneath the mattress, making them useful when you want to maximise available bedroom storage. Read our Ottoman Bed Buying Guide →
Does a divan bed come with a headboard?
Headboards can be an optional addition to a divan base, depending on the product. Always check the individual product listing to see exactly what is included.
How do I know what size mattress I need?
Your mattress should match the specified mattress size for your chosen bed. Always check the product dimensions before ordering. View our Mattress Size Guide →
Explore Our Bed & Mattress Buying Guides
Looking for more advice? Explore our related buying guides for help choosing the right bed, divan and mattress.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Bed?
Explore our range of bed frames, divan beds, ottoman beds and headboards to find the right combination for your bedroom.
Shop Bed Frames Shop Divan Beds Shop Ottoman Beds